Memory Verse: If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. John 15:19
Scripture Reading: John 17:1-26
Introduction:
The Son came to set free the citizens of earth from their bondage of sin, immediately establishing a spiritual kingdom in the hearts of His followers and promising that at a future time He would return to set up a physical kingdom as well. Some believe this new government is near at hand. Members of the new kingdom will suffer ridicule, condemnation, persecution, often from former friends or other family members. Those still loving the world will hate those who have chosen to follow Jesus Christ. “And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved” (Matthew 10:22).
The Christian walk is not easy. It requires much self-discipline, hard work, and prayer. If you are steadfast in your purpose, you will most assuredly win no popularity contests. But the victor’s prize at the end of the race will more than compensate for any material losses suffered in this life. When measured against eternity, your heavenly reward will be priceless.
Jesus made known the Father by completing the work God gave Him, and the disciples would have a new union with the Father and the Son through the future indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Our desire should not be to isolate ourselves from the world but to use Christ’s word and the Holy Spirit power to serve Him while our lives last, while at the same time, not succumbing to the evil influences of the world. The ultimate reason for future believers to know the Love of God, to be called from the world, is so that the love of God may be replicated in them: Thus, drawing the entire world to Christ.
Study Questions:
- What action does Jesus do that provides forgiveness of sins? John 17:2-4. Note: Through the cross, Jesus offers salvation to all who will believe in Him.
- How did Jesus protect His disciples? Does that include us? John 17:9-12, 20.
- Discuss John 17:17-19. Note: Sanctify means “to set apart.” One way is to be separate for holiness and another way we are “set apart” is for service.
- What is required before we can truly live for God? 1 John 2:15-17.
- Should Christians expect and prepare for suffering and persecution? 1 Peter 4:12-14.
- Do we as Christians deserve this? 1 Peter 4:17-19. Note: No one deserves to be saved and since everyone deserves condemnation, the fact that anyone is saved is only the result of God’s grace.
- What should our attitude be toward persecution? Matthew 5:10-12; 10:32-33.
- Who can be our worst enemies? Matthew 10:34-36. Note: To the disappointment of many Christians throughout the ages, it has often been those closest to them who have rejected them and their message.
- What shall we do if we are persecuted? Romans 12:14-16; Matthew 5:44-45; Leviticus 19:17-18; John 15:18-21.
- Can we see the replication of our example as we follow Christ’s example? John 17:20-23; John 13:34-35. Note: The loving relationship of believers to each other is the greatest witness of Jesus Christ, bringing unity through His revelation.
- Was this the only example He gave as a practical action? John 13:12-17.
- Does everyone who is born of God practice righteousness? 1 John 2:24-29. Note: When a child exhibits the nature of his or her father, he or she is perceived as the child of that father. Believers can walk in darkness and sin; shame is the result of not having had a lifestyle of obedience when Christ returns.
- Can we be free of guilt and allow ourselves to be called from the world and walk in obedience? 1 John 2:2-8.