Gospel Outreach International

Have you ever wondered what makes Christians truly special in God’s eyes? This Bible study delves into John 17 and explores Jesus’s intimate prayer for His followers, revealing how believers are set apart from the world and unified in Christ. Through careful examination of Scripture, we discover how Jesus’s intercession demonstrates the unique position and purpose of Christians in God’s plan.

But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves. John 17:13

• Christians hold a special position as God’s children, being transformed into Christ’s image and seated in heavenly places according to Scripture
• Jesus makes a clear distinction between praying for His followers versus the world, highlighting the unique status of believers
• Both Jesus and the Holy Spirit serve as intercessors for believers, demonstrating God’s special care for His people
• Christians are called to be distinct from the world while living in it, serving as ambassadors for Christ
• True Christian unity differs from worldly uniformity, focusing on oneness in Christ while allowing for diversity in personality and expression
• Believers are purchased by Christ’s blood and are considered God’s unique possession and inheritance

that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. John 17:21

Jesus is presented as our supreme intercessor who continually advocates on behalf of believers before the Father. He not only saved us through His blood but continues to actively work on our behalf through His ongoing ministry of intercession. This demonstrates His deep love and commitment to those who belong to Him. As both our Savior and mediator, Jesus elevates believers to a special status as God’s children and transforms us into His image.

What an encouraging reminder that Jesus continues to pray for us just as He did for His disciples! This Bible study shows us that we’re not just ordinary people trying to be good - we’re specially chosen and transformed children of God. Whether you’re from a Baptist, Methodist, or any other Christian background, what matters most is our unity in Christ and our special position as His followers. Jesus’s prayer for unity reminds us that while we may worship differently, our shared identity in Him makes us one family in God’s kingdom.

Bible References

• John 17:12-26
• John 17:8-9
• 1 John 3
• 2 Corinthians 6:14-15
• John 3:16
• Psalm 90:2
• Romans 12
• 2 Corinthians 4:6
• 1 Peter 1:18-19
• Ephesians 1:18
• Mark 3
• Daniel 7
• Philippians 2:5
• Galatians 3:27