Jesus’ Priestly Prayer

John 17:20-23

Unite the Church for a Testimony

Paul J. Bucknell
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The Bible Teaching Commentary

John 17:1-8 Glorify | John 17:9-12 Unite | John 17:13-15 Protect
John 17:16-19 Sanctify | John 17:20-23 Testimony | John 17:24-26 Share
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Unite the Church for a Testimony from John 17:20-23 is the fifth of six prayer requests made during Jesus' lengthy prayer at the end of the Upper Room Discourse which shows the importance of the church's unity to the planting, evangelism or building up the church of God. Includes Bible study questions.

5) Unite the Church for a Testimony (John 17:20-23)

“That they may all be one; even as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be in Us; that the world may believe that Thou didst send Me” (John 17:21).

The Father was concerned that more would see His glory, so He sent Jesus into the world. Jesus also sends us into the world that the world may see God’s glory.

1. Who is Jesus making these requests for in verse 20?

2. What does Jesus want for this larger group (John 17:21)?

3. What is the purpose for the unity (John 17:21)?

4. How might you describe this glory which Jesus speaks of in John 17:22-23?

Summary

Positionally, believers are not of the world, but there still remains a work of sanctification that must take place in the believers’ lives. This is the reason Jesus strongly emphasized the work of ‘making disciples’ before He ascended (see Matthew 28:18-20).

Reflection and application questions

• Not a few churches have started from unhappy bouts of disunity. Is this a good way to grow the church? Compare this to the Spirit’s plan.

• The church is God’s salt and light on earth. Discuss this with John 17:23 in mind.

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6) Share His Glory with His People (John 17:24-26)

Check out other quality BFF materials related to the above topics.

A video and handout of this lesson is available on the BFF New Testament Library - see below.