The Model of Jesus' Prayer and Life

Introduction:

This is the longest recorded prayer by Jesus in all four gospels.

It summarizes not only what Jesus has just taught his disciples, but also the purpose of his earthly life.

The writer of Hebrews encouraged “looking to Jesus” the author and finisher of our faith.

He endured the suffering of the cross.

He obeyed the Father even to the point of death.

He thought little of the shame associated with such an ignominious death as crucifixion.

Listening to Jesus might help us learn why it is important for us to remain here.

What are we to do in the world while we await his return?

Based upon this prayer, what did Jesus consider most important for his disciples?

Something is more important than being out of the world.

Something is more important than avoiding tribulation and suffering for association with him.

Jesus Prays for Glorification

After John describes the setting and posture, Jesus declares his hour has come.

His Coming Hour:

John 2:4

John 7:30

John 8:20

John 12:23 (John 12:27-28; 13:1,31).

Jesus asks for the Father to glorify the Son.

This, at a minimum, refers to the resurrection.

It might also refer to the ascension.

Jesus saw his own glorification, however, in light of what it would mean for the Father not for himself.

His glorification is not for his own glory.

Jesus illustrates why He wishes for the Father to glorify Him.

The Father had given him authority over all flesh so that he might give eternal life to all whom the Father had given him.

Authority over all flesh had not been for the purpose of self-indulgence, for the raw exercise of power.

It had been to do the will of the Father.

So, he prays for glorification for a particular purpose.

Jesus/John Defines Eternal Life

This is more than Jesus’ personal viewpoint.

It is what he came to teach.

Eternal life is knowing the Father as the only genuine God. It is also knowing whom the Father sent, Jesus Christ.

This could be a definition given by John for clarification.

Jesus Prays for Restoration

On the earth, Jesus glorified the Father through obedience.

We glorify the Father through obedience.

Now, Jesus asks for glorification in the form of restored fellowship and interaction with the Father.

John 1:1

John 1:14 (note the difference or break).

This has to also include the full equality with the Father that not being confined to human flesh could bring.