In the Gospels we read that Jesus selected twelve people to join Him in ministry. We call them His disciples. Disciples, in the meaning of the ancient world, were more than just students. They would attach themselves to a particular person and then learn everything they could from him. Jesus was surrounded by His disciples but there were lots of others along the way who were followers of Jesus. Today, let's consider a passage from Jesus’ prayer in John, Chapter 17, that has recently become more meaningful to me:
Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth. Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth. I am praying not only for these disciples but for all who will ever believe in me through their message. (John 17:17-20)
Chapter 17 of John's Gospel is often referred to as Jesus' "High Priestly Prayer." Jesus knew that He was soon to be killed, so He was praying for His disciples and asks the Father to teach them His word. Then twice, Jesus says that His word makes His disciples holy. In Greek, the word "holy" is hagios, which means different or unlike. For believers, being holy signifies being different from the world and becoming more like Jesus. Jesus then makes this astonishing comment: "I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth." Jesus gave His life so that his disciples might be made holy, something they couldn’t do themselves. Today’s passage ends with these wonderful words, "I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message." Who is Jesus talking about when he says, “all who will ever believe in me”? He's talking about you and me! We have believed through the message of those first century disciples. Jesus has prayed to the Father that we also will be made holy and become His disciples.
Today, take time to thank the Lord. The Father has answered Jesus' prayer in your life and mine...and that is very Good News!
“When the bottom falls out and disappointments come, you will learn what you believe, what you love, and what you treasure.”