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John-17

The High Priestly Prayer: A Devotional Study on John 17​

Introduction​

The seventeenth chapter of John's Gospel contains one of the most powerful and beautiful prayers recorded in scripture. Written by Jesus late in the evening before His arrest, this prayer, often referred to as the "high priestly prayer," speaks to our souls on many levels. As we delve into this sacred passage, let's explore the profound insights and spiritual truths embedded in Jesus' prayer for Himself, His disciples, and us.

Section 1: Jesus' Inner Struggle (John 17:1-5)​

Devotional Thought: Jesus begins this prayer with a deep inner struggle. He prays that God's will be done, not His own. His surrendering heart reflects the depths of His love for us and God. Today, let's reflect on the importance of surrendering our own wills for God's will and following Jesus' lead.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are you struggling to surrender your will for God's will in a certain situation?
  • Take a moment to reflect on Jesus' example, and pray to follow His lead in surrender and obedience.

Section 2: Jesus' Longing to be with the Father (John 17:5-10)​

Devotional Thought: Jesus' prayer reveals a deep longing to be with the Father. His heart yearns to be restored to the relationship He had before He became human. Consider the intimacy Jesus shares with the Father. Trust in God's loving presence even when we cannot see or hear Him.

Reflection Questions:

  • Take a moment to respond to Jesus' longing to be with the Father. Trust that God's loving presence is with you, even when you cannot hear or see Him.

Section 3: Jesus' Love for us (John 17:11-24)​

Devotional Thought: Jesus' prayer contains a powerful expression of His love for us. He prays that we will be one, just as He and the Father are one. Today, consider the depth and breadth of Jesus' love for us. Trust in the love He has for us and allow it to transform our hearts and lives.

Reflection Questions:

  • Take a moment to reflect on Jesus' love for us. Trust in His endless love and let it transform your heart and life.

Section 4: Jesus' Love for His Disciples (John 17:25-26)​

Devotional Thought: Jesus' prayer reveals His love for His disciples as He prays that they may be guarded from evil. Consider the trust Jesus places in His disciples. Trust in the power of Jesus' love for you, as we too are His disciples.

Reflection Questions:

  • Take a moment to reflect on the trust Jesus had in His disciples. Trust in the power of Jesus' love for you as a disciple.

Conclusion:​

In Jesus' high priestly prayer, we glean profound spiritual insights into His character, values, and love for us. His example teaches us to surrender our wills, trust in God's loving presence, and allow Jesus' love to transform us. May we carry these truths into our daily lives, living as disciples of Jesus and reflecting His character and values.