The Narrative of Jesus’ Life
The below passage contains part of a prayer by Jesus, offered not long before Jesus’ passion.
Excerpt from the Gospel
John 17:11 “And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. 12 While I was with them, I kept them in your name, which you have given me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. 13 But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves. 14 I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15 I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.”
Sharing your Faith
- What three things had Jesus done for his disciples? (See verses 12, 14 and 18).
- How do you feel about not being “of the world,” yet Jesus sending you “into the world”? (Verses 15 and 18).
- How does the Father keep us “from the evil one”?
Pray for One Another
Each person is invited to share a prayer request. Another participant will volunteer to offer the petition. Once everyone has chosen a prayer request, take turns offering the prayers aloud.
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This devotion is for the 6th Sunday of Easter, following the LCMS three-year lectionary. You can download a free copy of all the 2017-2018 Conversations about Faith & Life devotions on the Resources page.
Kevin Wilson 360 