Message Notes

(I) CONTEXT OF THE PRAYER OF JESUS

1. Close to the end of His ministry on earth

2. Concern for the community of Disciples

a) Just three years old

b) Danger of losing oneness was very real

3. Concern that history might repeat itself

a) Israel’s children were not known for oneness

b) The United Monarchy of ancient Israel did not last long

c) Israel was a fragmented society

d) The community of Disciples might become fragmented

(II) CONTENT OF THE PRAYER OF JESUS (JOHN 17:21)

1. The Perfect model of Oneness: Father-Son

“That they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You.” John 17:21

2. Praying for this level of Oneness among the community of Disciples

a) Was this prayer answered?

b) Yes! The first community of Disciples was able to have a high degree of Oneness

(III) CHALLENGE FOR US TODAY

1. To pray for this special sense of Oneness

a) With faith

b) Without doubt

2. To do our utmost to promote this sense of Oneness

a) As Jesus did

b) He was the unifying factor

c) He did many things to help them become One with other

d) Highlights:-

i) Mindset of a Servant ( Philippians 2:5-10; Luke 10:17 )

ii) Humble Washing of feet ( John 13:1-17 )

iii) Daily Ministry to the Multitudes ( Matthew 4:23-25 )

iv) Direct Teaching concerning servant-leadership ( Matthew 20:20-28 )