John 17:6-10, Jesus Prayers for His Disciples

6 “I have manifested your name to the people whom you gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. 7 Now they know that everything that you have given me is from you. 8 For I have given them the words that you gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. 9 I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours. 10 All mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them.”

Now Jesus prayers for his disciples, who are with him and are listening to this prayer. These predestinarian words of Jesus acknowledge that the Father brought these chosen disciples to him and Jesus has made them his own and prepared them for the mission ahead. Even though they do not understand everything, they have heard what he has said and believe that what he says comes from God.

The disciples will be the tangible result and witness to the work of Jesus. Because of their chosen nature, being claimed by God, they are secure and will be witnesses to the glory of God given to the world through the death and resurrection of his Son. They have accepted his words and will soon be up to the task of carrying out Jesus’ mission when they are empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Father, we know you because of Jesus. Use us who know him to make you known in the world. Amen.