[Scripture Reading: John 17:1-5]

Introduction

A. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to listen to Jesus pray? This text affords us that opportunity.

B. Of all the hours that Jesus spent in prayer to the Father, this chapter is the longest excerpt of any of those prayers that is preserved today: this must have been an important prayer!

I. Let’s take a look at the content of Jesus’ prayer.

A. He prayed for Himself (John 17:1-5).

B. He prayed for His disciples (John 17:6-19).

C. He prayed for His future disciples (John 17:20-26).

II. What can we learn from Jesus’ prayer?

A. We learn that unity was very important to Him (John 17:21-23; cf. Ephesians 2:11-18; 4:1-3).

B. We learn that the truth is sure to make us different (John 17:14-17; cf. 3:20; 15:18-25).

C. We learn that our Lord prays for us (John 17:20; cf. Luke 22:32; Hebrews 7:25-26).

D. We learn that Jesus wants us to be with Him (John 17:24; cf. John 14:1-6; 1 Thessalonians 4:17).

Conclusion

A. In Jesus’ final moments on Earth, His thoughts were with His disciples who would be left behind, and they were also with you and me who would follow after.

B. If you learn nothing else from this magnificent prayer, you ought to learn that Jesus loves you and that He wants you to be with Him for all eternity!