Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for April 23, 2023

For Those Who Will Believe

John 17:20-26

1. Background

• High Priestly Prayer in the shadow of the cross
• glorification (1-5), sanctification (6-19), unification (20-26)

2. Jesus Prays for an Earthly Unity 20-23

• focus of intercession that flows out of a stated conviction (16:33)
• petition: “that they may all be one”
• pattern: reflective of Father and Son
• purpose: message and maturation

3. Jesus Prays for a Heavenly Reunion 24

• petition “that they may be where I am”
• purpose: to see My glory (1 John 3:1-3)

4. Jesus Confirms His Ongoing Activity 25-26

• contrast: ignorance and complete knowledge
• ongoing activity: power of the cross and promise of the Holy Spirit

5. So What?

• Knowing that Jesus prayed for you, prize the principle of unity and the prospect of reunion with Him.
• “From God’s point of view, truth is not only more important than unity but it is in fact the basis for unity.” (Stowell)
• “Divisions in the church breed atheism in the world.” (Manton)
• “If we could see one another right now filled with the glory that we will one day have when we are in heaven, we would be sorely tempted to fall down on our knees and worship one another.” (Lewis)
• “Savior, if of Zion’s city, I through grace a member am, Let the world deride or pity, I will glory in Thy name.” (Newton)
• “When with the ransomed in glory His face I at last shall see, ‘Twill be my joy through the ages to sing of His love for me.” (Gabriel)