The Gospel of John: Come and See Your Glory in Christ

Sunday, we’ll go back to the gospel of John and begin our study of John 17, what is commonly called Jesus’ “high priestly” prayer. This beautiful conversation is unlike anything in the Scriptures, as the Son of God in flesh speaks to his Father about us. The prayer has three movements, but it is one prayer. It begins with Jesus talking about his return to the Father and receiving the glory that is rightfully his. He moves then to pray for the disciples specifically, and then to all who come to faith through their ministry.

While the prayer has three movements, it is still one prayer. It begins with the glorification of Jesus and ends with our participation in that glory. When Jesus prays for his glorification, he certainly deserves to be glorified, but he’s quick to explain his request is intended for the Father to be glorified. Jesus’ desire for glorification is not for himself. Then he ends the prayer, asking for his followers to see, and by implication, experience his glory. His glorification is the basis of our glorification.

While Jesus isn’t giving us a prayer to model, like Matthew 6:7, he is revealing his relationship to the Father and our relationship to God through him. As you prepare for worship, invest a moment to read John 17.