John 17:9–10: I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours. And all Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I am glorified in them.
Christ’s prayer was particularly for the Eleven, though it applies to all believers. At this point He was not praying for the world in its hostility and unbelief. This prayer is for two things: (a) the disciples’ preservation and (b) their sanctification. The world is not to be preserved in its rebellion or sanctified in its unbelief. Jesus prayed this request because of God’s ownership of them by creation and election (they are Yours). Jesus’ words, All I have is Yours, and all You have is Mine, reveal His claim to unity, intimacy, and equality with the Father. In the old economy, God dwelt among people and showed His glory. In Jesus, God’s glory was displayed. Then Christ’s disciples glorified Him: Glory has come to Me through them. And now in the Church Age the Holy Spirit glorifies the Son and believers are also to glorify the Son. 1
Your Word is Truth
Read Matthew 7:7. How can your prayer life change if you follow His instructions? Make a list today of three people who you want to pray for with greater persistence and perseverance.
Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. –Romans 8:34
You Alone are God
Jesus reveals His heart of prayer for those who are Kingdom workers. – TWEET IT
Your Will be Done
Lord, thank You for saving me and praying for me without ceasing.
1. Walvoord, John F., & Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1985). The Bible Knowledge Commentary.
