Jesus prays for all believers

United in Prayer: The Heart of Jesus for His Church

Bible Passage: Jn 17:20–26

Summary: In this prayer, Jesus intercedes not only for His disciples but for all future believers, emphasizing unity and the intimate relationship between the Father, the Son, and His followers.

Application: This sermon can help Christians understand the importance of unity in the body of Christ and encourage them to cultivate deeper relationships with one another, reflecting the love and unity that Jesus prayed for.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that Jesus desires for all believers to be one, just as He and the Father are one, and that our unity is a witness to the world of God's love.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage highlights Jesus' role as our intercessor and the embodiment of God's love and desire for community among His people, pointing to His ultimate sacrifice that enables our unity.

Big Idea: Our unity in Christ is not just a goal but a reflection of the divine relationship within the Trinity, showcasing the transformative power of His love to the world.

Recommended Study: As you prepare for this sermon, consider exploring the historical context of John 17 and the significance of Jesus' high priestly prayer. You may want to delve into the Greek terms used for 'unity' and 'love' to understand their implications. Logos can guide you through commentaries and theological works that discuss the implications of unity and intercession in the New Testament.

1. Prayerful Pursuit of Oneness

Jn 17:20-21

You could suggest that Jesus' prayer for unity among believers reflects the oneness He shares with the Father. Through this unity, the world can see the divine love and purpose of God. By striving for this oneness in our churches and communities, we become living testimonies of God's plan. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize love and harmony, setting aside differences to reflect Jesus' heart and purpose for His followers.

2. Presenting His Perfect Glory

Jn 17:22-23

Perhaps, you might underline that Jesus has given us His glory, enabling us to be unified and perfected in love. This passage encourages believers to embrace the transformative power of Jesus' presence, allowing it to mold us into a unified body that mirrors the love and unity within the Trinity. By living out this divine glory, we become an impactful witness of God’s love to the world around us.

3. Participating in Heavenly Love

Jn 17:24-26

Maybe you can point out that Jesus desires His followers to be with Him and see His glory, underscoring the intimate relationship He wishes to share with us. This passage invites us to cultivate a deeper relationship with Christ, which, in turn, fosters unity among believers. By experiencing His love and oneness with the Father, we are empowered to share this love, securing the Church’s bond in truth and love.