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John 17:11 (BSB)
I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to You. Holy Father, protect them by Your name, the name You gave Me, so that they may be one as We are one.
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to You. Holy Father, protect them by Your name, the name You gave Me, so that they may be one as We are one.” — John 17:11
In this moment, Jesus is speaking directly to God, almost like a heartfelt conversation between two close friends. He acknowledges that He’s no longer going to be physically present in the world, but His followers will remain. It’s filled with a sense of urgency and love. He’s asking God to protect His people and keep them united, just like He and the Father are united. Picture the warmth of a parent wanting their child to be safe and connected, even when they can't be there. That’s the emotion here—deep concern and a desire for unity.
This book was written by John, one of Jesus' closest friends and followers. John wanted to capture the essence of Jesus' life and teachings so that everyone could understand who Jesus really was. He included this specific prayer because it highlights Jesus’ deep love and commitment to His followers. John’s perspective is unique; he emphasizes relationships and the importance of being connected, which reflects his own experience of being part of Jesus' inner circle.
At the time this was written, the Roman Empire was in full swing, and life was tough for those who followed Jesus. There was political tension, and Christians faced persecution for their beliefs. This was a moment filled with uncertainty, and Jesus’ words were meant to comfort His followers in a chaotic world. Understanding this backdrop helps you see why His request for unity and protection was so vital—because they were about to face a storm.
This verse is crucial because it shows that you’re not alone in this world. Just like Jesus prayed for His followers, you can feel the same support and love today. It reminds you that unity is powerful and essential. In a world where division can feel overwhelming, this verse encourages you to seek connection and protection through love and community. It speaks to your need for belonging and support in your own life, especially when times get tough.
Take a moment this week to connect with someone you care about. Reach out to a friend or family member and let them know you’re there for them. You could also pray for unity in your relationships—ask for help in keeping your connections strong. Look for ways to support and uplift those around you, whether through a kind word or a helping hand. This simple act reflects the spirit of Jesus' prayer.
This verse is part of a powerful prayer that Jesus is offering just before His crucifixion. He knows the challenges His followers will face without Him. Right before this moment, He’s been teaching them about love, service, and the importance of staying connected to Him and each other. This prayer is a pivotal moment—it’s where He transitions from teaching to interceding for them. After this, He will face His trials, so this plea for unity and protection is essential as He prepares to leave them behind in a tough world.
How can you better foster a sense of unity and connection in your own relationships, just as Jesus prayed for His followers to be one?
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