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Lesson 11.The Father, the Son, and the Spirit | 11.5 The Prayer of Jesus | THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN | LIVING FAITH

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11.5 Jesus’ Prayer
Jesus’ Prayer: Unity in Love and Truth
Read John 17:1–26. What words or phrases in this chapter express Jesus’ desire for a close love relationship between Him, the Father, and His disciples?
The high priestly prayer of Jesus in John 17 is a profound and moving chapter that reveals the intimate relationship between Jesus, the Father, and His disciples. It provides insights into Jesus’ heartfelt desire: the unity, love, and truth that should characterize God’s kingdom.
1. Jesus’ Desire for a Love Relationship Between God and His Disciples
In this prayer, Jesus repeatedly expresses His desire for His disciples to experience the same close relationship with the Father that He Himself has. This is evident in words and phrases like “that they may be one, as we are one” (John 17:11) and “that the love with which You loved Me may be in them” (v. 26). This unity is not superficial but is rooted in God’s love.
2. The Connection Between Love and Truth
Jesus emphasizes that true unity can only exist on the foundation of truth. He says, “Sanctify them by the truth! Your word is truth” (John 17:17). The revelation of the Father and the proclamation of truth are central elements of Jesus’ ministry. He took great pains to convey a clear picture of God because He knew that misunderstandings about God could hinder a genuine relationship with Him.
3. Eternal Life Through Knowing the Father
Jesus defines eternal life as knowing “the only true God” (John 17:3). This knowledge is not merely intellectual agreement but a deep personal relationship. It is the foundation upon which love, unity, and devotion can grow.
4. Jesus’ Example of Devotion
The prayer also shows that Jesus was willing to give everything to fulfill the Father’s will. His life was marked by obedience, sacrifice, and love for those He sought to save—even those who rejected Him. This devotion serves as a model for us and a call to live out our faith with the same seriousness and love.
Significance for Our Lives Today:
1. Unity in Love and Truth
  • Connection:
    Jesus’ prayer reminds us that genuine unity in the community can only arise through the combination of love and truth. It encourages us to uphold the truth of God’s Word and build our relationships on love and forgiveness.
  • Practical:
    In everyday life, we can live in unity with others through forgiveness, compassion, and holding firmly to God’s truth. This is especially relevant in the church, where we work together as members of the body of Christ.
2. Knowing God as the Goal of Life
  • Connection:
    Jesus defines eternal life as a personal relationship with God (John 17:3). This knowledge begins here and now and fills our lives with meaning and hope.
  • Practical:
    We can deepen our relationship with God by spending time in prayer and Bible study and consciously seeking His guidance in our lives.
3. Discipleship in Devotion
  • Connection:
    Jesus’ devotion to the Father’s will is a model for our discipleship. His prayer shows that our lives should be oriented toward obedience and love for God, even when it involves difficulties or sacrifices.
  • Practical:
    We can intentionally ask ourselves how we can follow God’s will in our daily lives—whether through the decisions we make or our behavior toward others.
4. Sharing in God’s Mission
  • Connection:
    Jesus prayed not only for His disciples but also for those who would believe in Him through their testimony (John 17:20). This shows that we are part of God’s greater plan to spread His love and truth in the world.
  • Practical:
    We can share our faith stories with others, be a light in both small and significant moments, and recognize that God works through us.
5. Strength in Difficult Times
  • Connection:
    Jesus’ prayer shows that even amidst rejection, betrayal, and suffering, He sought the Father’s will. This encourages us to trust in God and hold on to His truth during challenging times.
  • Practical:
    We can draw strength through prayer and trust in God’s plan when facing challenges, and take inspiration from Jesus’ example.
Meaning for Our Lives Today:
  • Relationships:
    Strive for unity and love in our relationships—in the family, the church, and society.
  • Truth:
    Adhere to God’s Word and live in accordance with His truth.
  • Mission:
    Be aware that we are part of God’s plan to carry His love and truth into the world.
  • Devotion:
    Follow Jesus’ example and align our lives with God’s will.
Final Thought:
John 17 demonstrates how much Jesus valued truth and the relationship between God and humans. His words are an invitation to live in God’s love, uphold His truth, and continue His mission with devotion. Jesus’ prayer applies to us as well—a reminder that we are one with the Father in Him and part of His eternal plan.
The connection to our daily lives and faith is extensive and deeply inspiring. Jesus’ high priestly prayer in John 17 not only provides insights into His heart but also shows us how our lives should be shaped in unity with God and others. Here are practical connections:
1. Unity in Love and Truth
  • Connection:
    Jesus’ desire for unity between God, Himself, and His disciples reminds us of the importance of love and truth in our lives. Genuine community is based on God’s love that unites us and the truth of His Word that guides us.
  • Practical:
    In everyday life, we can live in unity with others through forgiveness, compassion, and holding firmly to God’s truth. This is especially relevant in the church, where we work together as members of the body of Christ.
2. Knowing God as the Goal of Life
  • Connection:
    Jesus defines eternal life as a personal relationship with God (John 17:3). This knowledge begins here and now and fills our lives with meaning and hope.
  • Practical:
    We can deepen our relationship with God by spending time in prayer and Bible study and consciously seeking His guidance in our lives.
3. Discipleship in Devotion
  • Connection:
    Jesus’ devotion to the Father’s will is a model for our discipleship. His prayer shows that our lives should be oriented toward obedience and love for God, even when it involves difficulties or sacrifices.
  • Practical:
    We can intentionally ask ourselves how we can follow God’s will in our daily lives—whether through the decisions we make or our behavior toward others.
4. Participating in God’s Mission
  • Connection:
    Jesus prayed not only for His disciples but also for those who would believe in Him through their testimony (John 17:20). This shows that we are part of God’s great plan to spread His love and truth in the world.
  • Practical:
    We can share our faith stories with others, be a light in both small and significant moments, and be mindful that God works through us.
5. Strength in Difficult Times
  • Connection:
    Jesus’ prayer shows that even amidst rejection, betrayal, and suffering, He sought the Father’s will. This encourages us to trust in God and hold on to His truth during challenging times.
  • Practical:
    We can draw strength through prayer and trust in God’s plan when facing challenges, and emulate Jesus’ example.
Significance for Our Lives Today:
  • Relationships:
    Strive for unity and love in our relationships—in the family, the church, and society.
  • Truth:
    Adhere to God’s Word and live in accordance with His truth.
  • Mission:
    Be aware that we are part of God’s plan to carry His love and truth into the world.
  • Devotion:
    Follow Jesus’ example and align our lives with God’s will.
Final Thought:
Jesus’ prayer in John 17 is an invitation to shape our lives in love, truth, and unity with God. It reminds us that through Jesus, we are part of an eternal plan that calls us to live in fellowship with God and others, uphold His truth, and share His love. This prayer is a source of inspiration and a call to discipleship in every aspect of our lives.

True unity arises when love and truth work together in our lives – let us grow in both today, as Jesus taught us.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-11-the-father-the-son-and-the-spirit-11-5-the-prayer-of-jesus-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

12.11.2024 – 1 Corinthians Chapter 2 | BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS

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December 12, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Corinthians Chapter 2
1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.
2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.
4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:
5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
6 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought:
7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:
8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.
16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? but we have the mind of Christ.
King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary
Introduction
The second section of the first letter to the Corinthians provides a deep insight into the message and method of the Apostle Paul. Here, Paul highlights the center of his ministry: the proclamation of the crucified Christ, not through the wisdom of the world, but through the power of the Spirit of God. He contrasts human wisdom with divine wisdom and emphasizes that true knowledge of God is revealed through the Spirit. This passage challenges us to question our own reliance on worldly wisdom and to entrust ourselves to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Commentary
In this chapter, Paul demonstrates remarkable humility and a clear focus on the essential: Jesus Christ and His crucifixion. He rejects rhetorical brilliance and human wisdom to ensure that the faith of the Corinthians is based solely on God’s power (verses 1–5). This attitude presents a challenge, especially in a world that often glorifies human achievements and intellect.
In the second part of the chapter (verses 6–16), Paul deepens his theology of divine wisdom. He states that this wisdom remains hidden to those who rely solely on their worldly reason. Instead, it is a gift revealed through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit enables believers to understand the deep mysteries of God, while the “natural man” (verse 14) dismisses these things as foolishness. The statement that believers “have the mind of Christ” (verse 16) emphasizes the transformative power of the gospel: it leads to spiritual renewal and a new perspective.
This section shows us that genuine spiritual insight is not an intellectual achievement but a revelation from God. Paul’s words serve as a reminder to open ourselves to the work of the Spirit and to remain humble.
Summary
Paul makes it clear that he proclaimed the message of Jesus Christ, the Crucified One, not with human wisdom or persuasive power, but through the power of God’s Spirit. The faith of believers should not be based on worldly wisdom but on God’s power. He describes God’s wisdom as hidden and only revealed through the Spirit. This wisdom remains incomprehensible to those who rely solely on worldly standards. However, the Holy Spirit enables believers to have a deeper understanding of the mysteries of God, allowing them to recognize and judge spiritual matters. Paul concludes with the encouraging statement that believers “have the mind of Christ” and thereby can partake in God’s wisdom.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 79—“It is Finished”
Read online here

 

Commentary
Introduction
The chapter “It Is Finished!” describes the climax of Christ’s work of redemption, completed with His final breath on the cross. This victory over sin and death deeply impacted not only humanity but also heaven and the unfallen worlds. Jesus’ cry, “It is finished!” proclaimed the triumph over Satan and his rebellion. This chapter highlights how Christ perfectly revealed God’s love, justice, and mercy and how the cross established the foundation for the eternal security of the universe.
Commentary
The chapter emphasizes the universal significance of Jesus’ victory on the cross. His declaration, “It is finished!” signals that the work of redemption is complete and that God’s love and justice have triumphed.
Satan, once a highly exalted angel, was finally exposed at the cross. Through his betrayal and the execution of Christ, his true character was revealed to heaven and the unfallen worlds. God allowed Satan to fully develop his principles to make the nature of sin visible. This revelation was necessary to affirm the inviolability of God’s law and the inseparability of grace and justice.
Jesus’ sacrifice demonstrated that grace does not nullify justice but fulfills it completely. His life was the ultimate example of obedience, and through His death, Christ proved that God’s law is righteous and can be upheld. Satan claimed that justice and mercy were incompatible. However, the cross showed that both principles are harmoniously united in God.
The chapter also illustrates how Christ remained steadfast despite Satan’s relentless attacks from His birth to His crucifixion. His faithfulness and obedience to God surpassed all attempts by the enemy to overcome Him. In doing so, He refuted Satan’s claims and secured humanity’s redemption.
Summary
Chapter 79: “It Is Finished!” reveals the depth and completeness of Christ’s victory on the cross. His sacrifice fully displayed God’s love, justice, and mercy, refuting all of Satan’s accusations. The cross demonstrated that sin and rebellion inevitably lead to destruction, while God’s law and principles provide the foundation for eternal security. Through His obedience and triumph over death, Christ brought salvation to humanity and the assurance that sin and Satan will be defeated once and for all. This chapter reminds us that redemption in Christ is the central event in the history of creation and conveys an eternal message of hope and love.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/12-11-2024-1-corinthians-chapter-2-believe-his-prophets/

This is How Rose Found a New Purpose

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How can someone who has experienced conflict become a source of inspiration? In this video, Rose opens up about her time in the New People's Army and the lessons learned along the way. Discover how she found a new purpose and now guides others toward faith. Hit that like button and subscribe for more inspiring transformation stories! #Transformation #FaithJourney #NewBeginnings #awr #adventistworldradio Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcKCa1zemDI #short Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVLZi4wgRxQ

Southern Adventist University Utilizes AI Model for Paleontology

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11 December 2024 | Southern Adventist University’s Biology and Allied Health Department and School of Computing have partnered to harness artificial intelligence (AI) to classify dinosaur teeth. A specific form of AI called deep learning uses artificial neural networks to learn from data and solve complex problems.  The idea originated in the fall of 2022 […] Source: https://atoday.org/southern-adventist-university-utilizes-ai-model-for-paleontology/

The Berrien Springs Village Church: Laying Bare Our Secret

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by Loren Seibold  |  11 December 2024  | When I was a young pastor, I remember saying to an older pastor who thought like I did, “Won’t it be nice when our generation takes over and the church will be more open minded, more progressive? When it can at least accept people across the spectrum […] Source: https://atoday.org/laying-bare-our-secret/

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