Highlights In Today's Reading:
Jesus' high priestly, intercessory prayer, for Himself (17:1-5), His Disciples (17:6-19), and His Church (That's You and Me!) (17:20-26). Jesus' betrayal and arrest (18:1-11). His mock trial before Annas, Roman-appointed high priest (18:12-14), then Caiaphas, the high priest according to Jewish Law (18:19-24), before Pilate (18:28-40). Peter's three denials and the cock crows (18:15-17,25,27).
On the Mount of Transfiguration, Jesus' countenance shone as the sun and His garments were white as the light. And the voice of God fell from heaven saying: This is My Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased (Matthew 17:5). Now, following the last supper, Jesus prays: Sanctify them through Thy Truth: Thy Word is Truth (John 17:17).
Jesus reveals the divine love of God that led His disciples to live unto Him who died for them and rose again (II Corinthians 5:1,14-21). His love produces a hatred of sin and a clear view of separation from this world system of things.
The believer is in the world but not a part of it. Jesus' earnest prayer for His disciples who were not of the world (John 17:14) does not mean that we are to withdraw from the association of all worldly people. Some Christians attempt to avoid the society of sinners and have lived in seclusion, hoping to escape the pollutions of the world. They forget the purpose for which they have been created. As Christ is the Light of the world (8:12; 9:5) and did not shun the public, so His disciples are to shine (Matthew 5:14-16), not only at the family altar, or at worship in a sanctuary, but in their everyday conversation (conduct) in the world (II Corinthians 1:12).
The world, inspired by the spirit of darkness, touches our lives at every point! It tempts with fleshly lusts, which war against the soul (I Peter 2:11). With tempting attractions it entices its victims to become dedicated to self-love.
The amazing fact is that, in spite of all hardships, sorrows, and suffering, irrespective of what they may be, the child of God knows that his heavenly Father loves him as much as any person on earth.
Each event in life is meant to bring us into a closer relationship to Him. Consequently, even in a storm we can experience His peace — the peace . . . which passeth all understanding (Philippians 4:7), a peace that the world can not experience. But the Holy Spirit imparts it in the hearts of those who know their Savior and Lord is in control of their lives. Jesus prayed in His high priestly prayer that we may be one in spirit through His grace. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world (John 17:16).
Thought for Today:
In witnessing to a lost world, Christians need to be alert to Satan's sinful traps — often disguised as socializing and good fellowship.
Word Studies:
17:12 son of perdition =b> Judas Iscariot; 18:30 malefactor =b> evildoer, criminal.
Cross Reference:
For John 17:12: See Psalm 41:9.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Radio Sri Lanka International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Barbara Wolford • Staff: Rita Guerra • Government Official: Rep. Samuel Graves (MO) • Country: Mauritius (1 million) 500 miles east of Madagascar • Major languages: English and Creole • Limited religious freedom • 50% Hindu; 27% Roman Catholic; 17% Muslim; 5% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord for His love (Psa. 63:3).
Memory Verse for the Week: Luke 14:33