The Prayer of Jesus

This morning we examined the first eight verses of Jesus' last extended prayer recorded in the scriptures. John 17:1-8 are the words Jesus prayed in regard to Himself the night before he was crucified. The last prayer of a person reveals who they are. What a blessing from God that He inspired John to record this prayer for us. Notice 5 things Jesus addressed in the first section of His prayer.

I. The Aim (1)

Jesus began His prayer by affirming his desire to bring the Father glory. Kenneth Gangel has stated “In this prayer we learn that the Father’s glory is the foundational purpose in praying.” His aim should be our aim.

II. The Authority (2a)

Jesus affirmed that he was given the task to rule over "all flesh." He is the king of the universe, the Head of the Church, and Lord of all.

III. The Assignment (2b-3)

Jesus was sent to give eternal life. He prayed here with words that teach us that "this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent."

I John 5:11-12 And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.

IV. The Accomplishment (4-6)

Jesus told His Father, "I have finished the work which You have given Me to do."

V. The Acceptance (7-8)

Many trusted in Christ. In verse 8, he prayerfully shared with God, "I have given to them the words which You have given Me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came forth from You; and they have believed that You sent Me."

Remember This...

Jesus prayed for Himself and he prayed for you. However, he is still praying for you. The Bible states "It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us (Romans 8:34)." Be encouraged that Jesus, the Son of God, is talking to God on your behalf.