January 11, 2015 Sunday School Commentary
Jesus Prays for His Disciples
Bible Background- John 17
Highlighted Text- John 17:6-1
“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me” (John 17:20-21).
Last week, Jesus reminded us the relevance in praying and gave us an example. This was a great refresher for me and I hope that you are also continuing in application. Today, Jesus takes us a step further through his disciple, John. John was one of Zebedee’s sons, as well as, brother of the disciple James. John is noted as “the one who Jesus loved” (13:23). Even so, he had his share of weaknesses as all of us. The last Gospel written, John provides us with intimate details of Jesus ministry.
Prayer for Unity
In verses 6-10 of our highlighted text, Jesus exhorts his authority and prays for his disciples. He speaks to the Father and declares, “the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you” (v.1b); therefore, he is preparing the Disciples for his earthly death. Up to this point, every scheduled prophesy has been manifested. He has been about his Father’s business. Jesus realized that this will be a sorrowful, yet triumphant event. Even so, he knows that the Disciples will need much prayer so that they can have the mindset, will and perseverance to carry out the Gospel message.
Nugget: How often do you pray for those who work closely with you?
Prayer for Protection
The Disciples would soon to face trials quickly after Jesus’ death. Children have the benefit of their parents protection during their rearing. But when they leave the nest or no longer have their parents to shadow them, they have to take their life tests based upon what was taught to them and what they learned. Jesus knew that the enemy would try to rise up even more now that the Disciples’ protection would be ‘gone’. Jesus prayed that they would not be overcome by evil, but would stand firm on the teachings they have learned and would utilize the Holy Ghost, the Comforter, that Jesus promised in his absence. We have everything available to us on our Christian journey as the Disciples did. We have our share of trials and tribulations too, but Jesus has not abandoned us either. We are still protected.
Nugget: Do you walk in fear in your everyday living or do you walk in the authority of knowing you are protected?
Prayer for Future Believers
On his way to the Cross, Jesus didn’t just think about those close to him. He thought about all of us. Jesus knew the power of the Gospel and what his sacrificial offering would mean to so many. Isn’t it great knowing that someone had us in mind before we were born? There is comfort in knowing that a plan had already been made and provision had already been in place for us? As the Disciples, we too, have to stay focused on Jesus’ message. We have to stand our ground with the enemy because we have the authority and power to do so. Salvation is not confined to a box. Jesus charged the Disciples to be witnesses and spread the Gospel so that others might become Believers too. Jesus didn’t just come to save 12, he came to save the world. All who believe in him, confess their sins, ask forgiveness and repent has salvation available.
Nugget: Do you keep salvation to yourself or do you actively and intentionally share the Gospel with others?
Today, as you continue your day and hopefully study of the lesson, think about times in your life when the Gospel was shared with you. Can you even imagine the time you were not a Believer and didn’t have knowledge of our awesome God? What if no one witnessed to you? What if no one prayed for you? I recall hearing the song, “Somebody Prayed for Me” growing up, but it wasn’t until after I was saved that I really appreciated its relevance. Intentionally, pray for others today. You can pray for their present and future situations. Cover your house, circle and your parameters in prayer. It’s manifestation time!
Commentary by, Evangelist Shulanda Hastings
Lesson guide, Direction by Urban Ministries