John 17:1-8
“And this is eternal life, that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.” – John 17:3
John 17 records Jesus’ prayer to the Father before His crucifixion. In this chapter, Jesus prays for three things: (i) the completion of His mission (vv. 1–8), (ii) His disciples (vv. 9–19), and (iii) future believers (vv. 20–26). From the first part of His prayer, we see that Jesus’ purpose on earth was to glorify God, and He accomplished this by granting eternal life to those whom the Father had given Him.
Over the past three years, Jesus had revealed His identity and mission to His disciples through His teachings and miracles. Now, “the hour has come” (v. 1). Jesus was about to fulfill the final work God had sent Him to do: dying on the cross and rising again to bring eternal life to humanity. This marked the most pivotal turning point in history. Now, through Jesus, we can receive eternal life.
This eternal life is not merely endless existence. It is knowing the one true God and His beloved Son, Jesus, and entering into a deep, personal relationship with Him. It is not just a future hope but a present reality. We can experience His presence here and now, walking with Him forever.
We were once strangers to God, separated from Him, even considered His enemies. Yet the Lord of life willingly submitted to the Father’s will, laying down His own life to redeem us. Now, we are reconciled to God, adopted as His children, and invited to commune with Him in prayer. What amazing grace!
Reflection:
Do you cherish the eternal life Jesus has given you? This was His ultimate mission, one for which He sacrificed His very life. How precious is eternal life to you? How are you living it out? Moreover, Jesus’ prayer shows His singular focus: to glorify God and fulfill the Father’s will. What is the driving purpose of your life? Are you pursuing your own glory or God’s glory?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, to give me eternal life. I confess that I often live for myself, neglecting Your guidance in my daily life. Starting today, I long to know You more deeply and experience Your love and grace afresh. Lead me according to Your will, and help me obey You joyfully. May my life be fully devoted to glorifying Your name. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
John 17 records Jesus’ prayer to the Father before His crucifixion. In this chapter, Jesus prays for three things: (i) the completion of His mission (vv. 1–8), (ii) His disciples (vv. 9–19), and (iii) future believers (vv. 20–26). From the first part of His prayer, we see that Jesus’ purpose on earth was to glorify God, and He accomplished this by granting eternal life to those whom the Father had given Him.
Over the past three years, Jesus had revealed His identity and mission to His disciples through His teachings and miracles. Now, “the hour has come” (v. 1). Jesus was about to fulfill the final work God had sent Him to do: dying on the cross and rising again to bring eternal life to humanity. This marked the most pivotal turning point in history. Now, through Jesus, we can receive eternal life.
This eternal life is not merely endless existence. It is knowing the one true God and His beloved Son, Jesus, and entering into a deep, personal relationship with Him. It is not just a future hope but a present reality. We can experience His presence here and now, walking with Him forever.
We were once strangers to God, separated from Him, even considered His enemies. Yet the Lord of life willingly submitted to the Father’s will, laying down His own life to redeem us. Now, we are reconciled to God, adopted as His children, and invited to commune with Him in prayer. What amazing grace!
Reflection:
Do you cherish the eternal life Jesus has given you? This was His ultimate mission, one for which He sacrificed His very life. How precious is eternal life to you? How are you living it out? Moreover, Jesus’ prayer shows His singular focus: to glorify God and fulfill the Father’s will. What is the driving purpose of your life? Are you pursuing your own glory or God’s glory?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, to give me eternal life. I confess that I often live for myself, neglecting Your guidance in my daily life. Starting today, I long to know You more deeply and experience Your love and grace afresh. Lead me according to Your will, and help me obey You joyfully. May my life be fully devoted to glorifying Your name. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.