Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was a great teacher who left behind a legacy that has continued to impact the world for centuries. One of his most powerful and profound prayers was for his disciples. In John 17, we find Jesus praying for his disciples just before he went to the cross.
The Prayer
Jesus starts by acknowledging that his time on earth is coming to an end. He then prays for himself, asking God to glorify him so that he can bring glory to God. After that, he turns his attention to his disciples, saying:
“I have revealed you to those whom you gave me out of the world. They were yours; you gave them to me and they have obeyed your word.” – John 17:6 (NIV)
Jesus acknowledges that the disciples belonged to God and were given to him by God. He then goes on to pray for their protection.
Protection
“Protect them by the power of your name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one.” – John 17:11b (NIV)
Jesus knew that the disciples would face many challenges and difficulties in their mission of spreading the gospel. He prayed for their protection against all forms of evil and harm. He also prayed for their unity.
- Unity: “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.”
– John 17:20-21a (NIV)
- Sanctification: “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” – John 17:17 (NIV)
- Love: “I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.” – John 17:26 (NIV)
Jesus prayed for their unity because he knew that it was essential for their success. He also prayed for their sanctification, that they may be set apart for God’s purposes. Lastly, he prayed that they would experience the same love that he had with the Father.
The Significance
Jesus’ prayer reveals his deep love and concern for his disciples. It also shows his desire for them to succeed in their mission of preaching the gospel to all nations. His prayer is significant not only for his disciples but also for us today.
As believers, we can take comfort in knowing that Jesus prayed for our protection, unity, sanctification, and love. We can also draw strength from his prayers as we face challenges and difficulties in our walk with God.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jesus’ prayer for his disciples was a powerful expression of his love and concern for them. He prayed for their protection, unity, sanctification, and love.
As believers today, we can draw strength from his prayers as we seek to fulfill God’s purposes in our lives. Let us take comfort in knowing that Jesus is still interceding on our behalf today just as he did with his disciples so many years ago.