John 17:1-8
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
As you read John 17:1-8 imagine you are in the same room with Jesus. Notice any emotions or questions that arise as you listen to him.
Jesus has patiently prepared his disciples for the events that are about to unfold, and they have stopped asking questions and expressed their belief in him. Now he turns to talk to God – the only one who can sustain him through the coming journey to the cross and beyond.
Jesus often got up early and went off to talk to God the Father alone, but now he enters into intimate communication with God right in the presence of his followers. It must comfort these followers of Jesus deeply to hear him affirm their faith and God’s love for them, but even more important is the example Jesus gives them of how to speak freely to God the Father. The time is coming when they will remember Jesus’ example and come boldly before God.
This part of Jesus’ prayer is specifically for his disciples, but imagine for a moment that Jesus is praying for you. What does he say to God the Father about you? What does he ask God on your behalf?
Read John 17:1-8 again focusing on Jesus’ words about eternal life.
These are some of the simplest and most profound words in Scripture, because here, Jesus spells out the meaning of rich, unending life. Eternal life is not some far off ideal; it is knowing God and knowing Jesus here and now.
Jesus is the revelation of God to humanity and through him we can have access to God the Father, and we can share in all that God has given Jesus. When we know Jesus, we know God and we are experiencing true, unending life in all its fullness.
Considering the uncertainty and chaos in the world, how does the idea that eternal life is available now strike you?
How well do you know Jesus? Think about this for a moment and then talk to him.
It would be impractical to pray and read Scripture all day every day, but do you think it might be possible to reframe your experiences and inner thoughts by knowing Jesus better and becoming more aware of the Spirit of Jesus living in you?
What are one or two practical steps Jesus might be inviting you to take to know him better?
What will you do about that?
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The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.
