Sent into the World
In completion of the gospel of John and references to the world, the word is used eighteen times, we arrive at chapter 17 commonly called Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer. A priest is appointed as an intercessor or mediator; he stands between the people and God. Jesus allows us to look into His priestly heart right before going to the cross.
First of all, He prays for Himself. Jesus declared that glory comes from His obedience to the Father’s assignment that He accepted before the world was created. His sacrificial death on our behalf completes the Plan of Redemption and that accomplishment brings glory, doxa, honor, greatness, fame, recognition, and prestige to the Father’s name. They share in the glory through their unity and now that glory is imparted to us.
Secondly, Jesus prays for His remaining eleven disciples. They were chosen by the Father and given to Him; that phrase ‘given Me’ is used six times. A vital point was being made; God chose or elected Jesus’ followers and gave them the ability to believe and trust in the Savior. These words of John 17 are now written that we also may believe we’ve been chosen by God and given the same empowerment for faith. Jesus is clear, He’s not praying for the world of unbelievers but for believers, those the Father has given Him. He’s not in the world anymore but they are, however, He won’t ask for them to be removed. Jesus promised to keep them, to guard, preserve, and strengthen them with joy until their assignment in this world is completed. He repeated what was said previously, the world hates them because they are so different. They don’t behave, respond, or enjoy the same things worldly people do and that causes hatred.
Lastly, Jesus prays for us, future believers, and includes all the benefits. Out in the world there are chosen ones who need to hear the word of truth from our mouths. That’s our final assignment. We testify of His love and care, teach and preach His Word, and display unity among other believers. We act like God. The unity in the Trinity is a beautiful picture of the unity in the Church for the world to see. When the world sees our relationship with God and others they are either drawn to Him or rebel against Him. There is no in-between. Jesus completes His priestly prayer by speaking of love. The mutual love and union that the Father and Son possess is a picture for the Church of our responsibility to show the world that we know God. That’s our mission if you choose to accept it.
But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God’s love. Jude 1:20-21 NLT
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