Articles
Jesus Prayer – John 17
Jesus Prayer – John 17
In John 17 we have the record of the most complete prayer that Jesus prayed. He was continually praying (cp. Luke 3:21; 5:16; 6:12; 9:18, 28–29; 11:1; 22:41–45; 23:46), sometimes continuing in prayer all night. Yet with all this praying, we have scarcely an example of content. We need therefore to study, meditate, and emulate John 17.
As you read this chapter, notice that it basically breaks down into three sections. He prayed for himself (1-8), for the apostles (9-19), and for all disciples (20-26).
Some of the concerns of this prayer involve:
· The glory of God.
· The disciples being kept from the evil one. 15
· The sanctification of the disciples by their knowing and following the Word. 17
· The unity of the apostles and also all disciples: that they would be one even as the Father and Jesus are one. The purpose / result of such unity was that "the world may believe" that God sent the Son (21).
As I read this chapter I am constantly reminded of the difference in our prayers and His. I believe that such differences come from the difference of what we hold as important and what He held as important. It is our struggle to seek FIRST the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. We struggle to always seek to do the will of God. We fall short of meaning 'Thy will be done, not mine'. Like Martha, we often choose that which is of less importance.
As I read this chapter I am encouraged to lift my viewpoint; to move away from self and towards God and His people. My relationship with Jesus involves more than my own well being, it involves the well being of God's people that I am part of. I am a part, but I function for the good of the body. Such a concept is not popular in our 21st century American infatuation with 'self'. All that really means is that we yet need to change our attitudes and mindset to be like His.
There is simply so much to learn from this prayer of Jesus. We need to return again and again to a study of this chapter. What did you learn from your reading of this today?
Hugh DeLong
