20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 23 I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
24 “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.
25 “Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. 26 I have made you[a] 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.”
Personal Reflection and Discussion
In this passage, Jesus shifts the focus of his prayer. We read his optimism that the disciples’ witness is effective, bringing people to believe in Him
- Think of someone you know who has a powerful witness of the work of Jesus in his/her life. What makes his/her witness so powerful?
- For whom is Jesus praying in these verses (see v. 20)?
- What is the specific focus of Jesus’ prayer (see v. 22-23; see also Eph 2:14-22)?
- How does this prayer reflect God’s purpose in creating people in His own image (see Eph 1:9-10)?
- What about your witness do you believe to be effective?
Prayer
Jesus, let us be mission-oriented, unified in our purpose for spreading the Gospel throughout the nation. Let not the evil one cause us to lose our purpose and focus. Let us be united in love from the Father, fueling us to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Amen.
Greek Words of the Day
English Word: become perfect to one | Transliterated Word: Telioo
To complete, accomplish, or consummate, end, finish, fulfill, become perfect. Particularly with the meaning to bring to a full end, completion reaching the intended goal, to finish a work or duty
English Word: become perfect to one | Transliterated Word: Nbuwkadne’tsar
King of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzer meaning
Family Engagement Activity
Today, pray for those to come. Talk about why your family believes. See if you can trace your family back to a relative that wasn’t born into a Christian family. If you can’t, thank the LORD for the support that has lasted generations.
Going Activities To Consider
Today, write out your witness: How has Jesus impacted your life? Practice sharing it with someone close to you so that you can refine it. Then, go out and share your witness with someone who does not know Jesus who is close to you. If all your close friends know Jesus, consider building new relationships. Seems like you have a strong enough family and a strong enough Savior to support you.