Podcasts about high priestly prayer

While searching for his notes, Fr. Jacob quizzes Fr. John on Augustine's Trinitarian Theology, and then he leads us through the writings of St. John the Apostle, his Letters, his Gospel, and The Book of Revelation with an eye toward the Trinitarian Theology in John. As they ponder the Trinity, Fr. Jacob and Fr. John close the episode by reflecting on the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus found in the Gospel of John, chapter 17.

Jesus Shares in the Divine Nature MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful exploration of Jesus' identity, we delve into the profound High Priestly Prayer found in John 17. This prayer reveals Jesus not just as a teacher or prophet, but as one who shares in the divine nature with God the Father. We're challenged to consider: Who is Jesus to us personally? The prayer showcases Jesus' unique relationship with the Father, calling Him 'Father' over 160 times in the Gospels. This intimacy extends to us as believers, inviting us into the very fellowship of the Trinity. As we contemplate this, we're reminded that our unity as Christians is rooted in our union with God Himself. The prayer also reveals Jesus' eternal existence and His role in creation, emphasizing His divinity. This understanding transforms how we view the cross - not as a tragedy, but as our salvation. Let's reflect on how this deeper knowledge of Jesus' nature can impact our daily walk with Him and our relationships with others.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, I press on toward His goal for me (Philippians 3:12f). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14) SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): James 1:21-25; John 17 (entire chapter); John 10:30; John 10:27-33; Colossians 1:15; Colossians 1:19; 2 Peter 1:4 A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Essentials Part 5 – The Holy Spirit”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

In chapter 17, we are introduced to the great High Priestly Prayer of Jesus. Reverend Alexander explores the intimate relationship between the Son and the Father and the ongoing ministry of Christ as our Intercessor. This episode of Hear the Word of God promises to deepen your understanding of the glory of God manifested in the life and work of Jesus. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/581/29?v=20251111

In John 17 Jesus's final act before He is betrayed in the Garden of Gethsemane is to publicly pray. This is a deeply heartfelt prayer that Jesus offers the Father on behalf of you and me! He prays that we would be unified, kept from evil, and filled with His love and life! A truly remarkable prayer that we all can benefit greatly from!

February 20, 2026Today's Reading: Mark 1:29-45Daily Lectionary: Genesis 2:4-25; Mark 1:29-45“And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.” (Mark 1:35)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Healings and more healings. This is what Jesus is doing. But amidst the healings is prayer. Jesus prays. We see this quite often with Jesus, that He goes off alone to pray. Sometimes it's to present specific requests to God and we get to hear them (like the High Priestly Prayer in John 17, or Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane), but sometimes we don't get to hear the conversation He has alone with the Father. We do see that once He finishes praying, He's ready for what comes next. It's almost as if spending time alone with His Father in prayer refreshes, renews, and energizes Him. In Mark 1, after Jesus prays, He sets off for what's next: more healings. Life can be exhausting sometimes. I don't know if you would describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert. All of us can get tired, exhausted, and worn down from something, whether it's the stresses we face, the pressures of school, family, work, or something else, like just living life. Some introverts are refreshed by being alone, spending time with themselves. I am not one of those people. I get refreshed and energized by being with people. Spending time in prayer can refresh us because we get to be with the One who created us, we get to cast all of our cares, concerns, worries, issues, and burdens on the One who is able to not only handle all of our stuff, but the One who can actually do something about our stuff. This doesn't mean that all of our prayers will be answered. Jesus knew what God's will was in the Garden of Gethsemane, and He prayed for His will to be done. He also asked that the cup would be removed from Him, even though He knew it wouldn't be. Paul writes, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, who brought peace between us and God through His death and resurrection, gives us peace no matter what God's answer to our prayers is. In Him we can have peace knowing that He is always with us when He says no, and when He says yes.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Amen, that is, so shall it be. Make strong our faith in You, that we May doubt not but with trust believe That what we ask we shall receive. Thus in Your name and at Your Word We say, “Amen, O hear us, Lord! (LSB 766:9)Rev. Glenn Worcester, pastor of Peace Lutheran Church, Winnipeg, ManitobaAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

In this sermon from John 17:20-26, Pastor Andrey brings us into the final movement of Jesus' High Priestly Prayer, where Christ intercedes not just for His immediate disciples, but for believers across the centuries—including us.Drawing on the profound reality that Jesus was praying for future believers before they ever existed, Andrey reveals the staggering truth of our inclusion in Christ's eternal love. As Jesus prepares for the cross, He looks across time itself and prays for those who would believe through the disciples' witness, demonstrating that our salvation was secured not just in the cross, but in the prayer that preceded it.This passage unveils Christ's deepest desires for His people: supernatural unity that serves as compelling witness to a fractured world, and eternal glory that awaits those who are loved with the very love the Father has for the Son. Andrey shows how Christian unity is not optional preference but evangelistic necessity, rooted not in our similarities but in our shared identity in Christ.Ultimately, this message stirs fresh longing for the day when faith gives way to sight and we behold Him face to face, while calling believers to live out the unity that makes the gospel credible to a watching world. In a time when division seems easier than love, this sermon reminds us that we are prayed for, chosen, and destined for glory.

7 takeaways from this study Incense shows us what prayer really is. The altar of incense in Exodus isn't just ancient ritual. It pictures our prayers rising continually before God, like what we see in Revelation 8. Hannah is a model of real intercession. Her silent, anguished prayer in 1Samuel 1–2 shows what it means to pour out your soul before the LORD, with no pretense and no Plan B. The “horn” is God's power to lift up the lowly. When Hannah's “horn” is lifted, it ties into the larger Bible picture of the horn as strength and victory — from the Psalms to Daniel to the Lamb with seven horns in Revelation. From bronze altar to golden altar is a journey. Sacrifice at the bronze altar leads to transformation, and the golden altar of incense pictures a life that now draws near and sends up a pleasing fragrance of prayer. Yeshua is our eternal High Priest and advocate. Unlike mortal priests, He lives forever and always intercedes for us (Hebrews 7; 1John 2). He doesn't just officiate; He fights for us. John 17 ties incense to truth and unity. Yeshua prays that we'll be set apart by God's truth and that we'll be one, just as the LORD is one. That unity is part of our “incense” to the world. Malachi warns us how not to worship. God rejects cheap, half‑hearted offerings and religious show. Yet Malachi also promises the Sun of Righteousness and an Elijah‑type call to return and be restored. There’s line from the altar of incense in Exodus 30 through Hannah's prayer, Yeshua's high priestly ministry, and Malachi's rebuke of corrupt worship, showing how Scripture presents prayer as something like heavenly incense—fragrant, costly, and “most holy to the LORD” (קֹדֶשׁ קָדָשִׁים qodesh qodashim, “most holy”; Exodus 30:10). In Exodus 30:1–10, the altar of incense stands right in front of the curtain that separates the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies, where the Ark of the Covenant/Testimony rests. The Ark often receives the most attention, and rightly so, because the visible manifestation of God's Presence dwells above it. Yet the golden altar of incense is placed just outside the veil, very near to that Presence. The Mishkan (“Dwelling Places,” i.e., the Tabernacle) and its furniture are not merely ancient religious artifacts. They are earthly replicas of heavenly realities (cf. Hebrews 8:5). The altar is a replica of what happens in heaven; the pattern given to the priests teaches Israel what is already true in the heavenly realm. That pattern still speaks to believers today in Messiah. Hannah's Prayer: Incense of the Heart To understand what the altar of incense signifies, we must listen to חַנָּה Channah (Hannah) in 1Samuel 1–2. Her story offers a narrative picture of incense-like prayer. Hannah's deep longing for a son moved her to pour out her soul before Adonai with unusual intensity and sincerity. In the biblical world, barrenness was viewed as a source of reproach and grief for a woman, and 1 Samuel 1:9–20 emphasizes that this sorrow is what drove Hannah to such fervent, heartfelt prayer.  Channah is “greatly distressed” and “wept bitterly” as she prays at the Tabernacle, at that time pitched in Shiloh. She vows: “O LORD of hosts, if You will indeed look on the affliction of Your maidservant and remember me, and not forget Your maidservant, but will give Your maidservant a son, then I will give him to the LORD all the days of his life…” 1Samuel 1:11, NASB95 Her prayer is silent — only her lips move — so that Eli the priest misreads her anguish, assumes she is drunk (1Samuel 1:12–14). But Hannah explains that she is “a woman oppressed in spirit” who has “poured out [her] soul before the LORD” (1Samuel 1:15). This language of pouring out the soul parallels the outpouring that incense imagery conveys: something deep within rises up toward heaven. Yet, considering Eli's broader story and the moral decline he witnessed around him, it is understandable why he initially assumed the worst. Once he listened and understood the true nature of her prayer, he affirmed her request and blessed her. God remembers Hannah; she conceives and bears שְׁמוּאֵל Shemu'el (Samuel), saying, “because I asked him of the LORD” (1 Samuel 1:20). Her answered prayer leads to a song of praise in 1Samuel 2:1–10. The Horn: Power and Exaltation In Hannah's song, she says: “My heart exults in the LORD;My horn is exalted in the LORD” 1Samuel 2:1, NASB95 The Hebrew term קֶרֶן qeren, “horn,” appears repeatedly in Scripture as a symbol of power, victory, and strength. In the Psalms we read: “The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer,My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge;My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Psalm 18:2, NASB95 Prophetic books like Daniel 7 use horns in visions to represent kings and kingdoms rising and falling. In Revelation 5:6, the Lamb appears with seven horns, signaling complete and perfect power. 7 and 8: Completion and Overflow The number seven holds special resonance in Hebrew thought. The word שֶׁבַע sheva (“seven”) is related to שָׁבַע shava (“oath”), giving seven the sense of something you can rely on, something complete and confirmed. Thus seven horns on the Lamb picture power brought to its full, reliable, oath-like completion. The symbolism of seven lamps in Revelation 1–2 connects to the מְנוֹרָה menorah in the Tabernacle — the seven‑branched lampstand that symbolizes God's complete insight into, and care for, His people. The number eight, שְׁמוֹנֶה (shemonah), connected to שֶׁמֶן (shemen), “oil” or “fatness.” If seven is fullness and completion, eight suggests overflow—fullness that spills over, like rich oil. In the pattern of Scripture, seven stands for complete cycles (Sabbath, feasts, etc.), while eight can signal new beginnings that flow out of that completed work. In this context, the Lamb with seven horns represents perfect, complete power; the Lamb stands amid the seven lamps as the One who fully sees and fully empowers the congregations. This ties the imagery of horns, lamps, and incense together around the person of Messiah. From Bronze Altar to Golden Altar: A Journey of Transformation The bronze altar in the courtyard of the Tabernacle connects with the golden altar of incense in the Holy Place. Both have horns (קַרְנוֹת qarnot), but they serve different roles. The bronze altar (Exodus 27) receives burnt offerings; animals are consumed by fire there, and their smoke rises. The golden altar of incense (Exodus 30:1–10) stands inside, by the curtain, and receives only incense — no animal sacrifices. This layout illustrates a progression: The worshiper enters the courtyard and encounters the bronze altar. Here, a substitutionary life is poured out in blood; the offering is consumed. Only the blood of certain offerings proceeds further, toward the inner sanctum. The golden altar of incense represents the completion of that process: what has been offered and transformed now rises as a pleasing fragrance, close to God's presence. In Messianic Jewish terms, this progression points to the way a believer, Jew or Gentile, approaches God through Yeshua the Messiah. The life laid down (sacrifice) leads to cleansing and transformation, and from that transformed life arises prayer as incense before the throne. ‘Most Holy to the LORD’ Exodus 30 describes the golden altar as “most holy to the LORD” (קֹדֶשׁ קָדָשִׁים הוּא לַיהוָה qodesh qodashim hu la‑Adonai). This expression is rare and weighty. קָדוֹשׁ kadosh means “holy, set apart”; qodesh qodashim is literally “holiness of holinesses,” usually translated “Most Holy” or “Holy of Holies.” The same language describes the inner sanctuary where the Ark is kept and certain offerings that are entirely set apart for God (e.g., Leviticus 2:3; 6:17). When something is “most holy,” it is not negotiable, not a casual add‑on to life. It belongs to God in a unique way. The altar of incense stood in intimate connection with the Holy Place, positioned directly before the veil and closest to the presence of Adonai. Though smaller in size than other furnishings, its spiritual significance was immense.  The study draws a parallel between this and prayer itself. When prayer rises from a life genuinely devoted to God, it resembles that incense on the most holy altar: entirely set apart, fully given over. ‘Devoted’ Beyond Recall Leviticus 27:28 introduces the concept of חֵרֶם ḥerem: “…anything which a man sets apart to the LORD out of all that he has… shall not be sold or redeemed. Anything devoted to destruction is most holy to the LORD.” Leviticus 27:28, paraphrased from NASB95 The Hebrew root חָרַם ḥaram basically means “to devote,” though in many contexts it takes on the sense “devoted to destruction,” as in the conquest of Jericho. Once something is ḥerem, it is irrevocably given over; you do not get to pull it back or swap it out. Applied to prayer, this becomes a vivid image: true prayer is ḥerem-like—wholly given to God without reservation. Hannah's plea for a child and her vow to dedicate him to the LORD (1Samuel 1:11) exemplify that kind of devotion. The High Priest and the Cloud of Incense Once a year, on Yom Kippur (Leviticus 16), the high priest enters the Most Holy Place. Crucially, he must bring incense from the golden altar in a censer, so that a cloud of incense covers the mercy seat, “that he may not die” (Leviticus 16:13). The study emphasizes that this cloud is not a mere ritual flourish; it is a protective and mediating sign, wrapping the high priest as he draws near. This leads naturally to the role of Yeshua as the eternal High Priest. Hebrews 7 contrasts mortal priests, who die, with Messiah: “…because He continues forever, holds His priesthood permanently.Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:23–25 NASB95 In a Messianic Jewish reading, Yeshua is the heavenly כֹּהֵן גָּדוֹל Cohen Gadol, who not only offers atonement but continues in intercession—like incense continually rising. The Tanakh shows that Israel's priests, descendants of Aaron, were human and varied—some served faithfully, others struggled deeply, and some, like the sons of Eli, acted in ways that dishonored their calling. Their priesthood, though divinely appointed, was limited by mortality and human weakness. Yeshua, on the other hand, is not a priest who “clocks in and out,” but the One who stands between the living and the dead, just as Aaron once did with the censer of incense to stop a plague in Israel (Numbers 16:46–48). John 17: The High Priestly Prayer of Yeshua John 17 is often called the “high priestly prayer.” Here Yeshua lifts His eyes to heaven and prays for: The glorification of the Father and the Son (John 17:1–5) Revelation of the Father's name and word to the disciples (John 17:6–8) Protection from the evil one (John 17:9–16) Sanctification in truth (John 17:17–19) Unity of believers in Him (John 17:20–23) Eternal presence with Him and experience of the Father's love (John 17:24–26) Yeshua says: “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.” John 17:17, NASB95 The Hebrew concept behind “truth” here parallels אֱמֶת (emet), “truth, reliability.” Sanctification (qiddush) is not vague spirituality; it is being set apart by the Word of God, as revealed in Torah, Prophets, Writings, and fulfilled in Messiah. Yeshua's emphasis on unity (“that they may all be one,” John 17:21) resonates deeply with the שְׁמַע Shema: “Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one!” Deuteronomy 6:4 NASB95 Just as יהוה Adonai is one, His people are called to Oneness in Him — Jew and Gentile together in Messiah, reconciled and united (cf. Ephesians 2:14–16). That unity is not theoretical. It is part of the fragrance of genuine incense-like prayer that displays God's reality to the watching world. Prayer and Judgment in Revelation 8 Revelation 8:1–5 presents a striking scene: the prayers of the saints (“holy ones,” קְדֹשִׁים kedoshim), like incense, rise before God, and then the angel takes the censer, fills it with fire from the altar, and throws it to the earth, triggering thunder, lightning, and an earthquake. Those prayers are not only requests for comfort; they include cries of “How long?”—longing for justice, the end of oppression, and the final setting-right of the world. Prayer and judgment intertwine: the persistent prayers of God's people are linked to the release of God's righteous judgments that end evil and suffering. As the narrative unfolds, these prayers are connected to the sounding of the seven trumpets, showing that intercession invites divine intervention against the forces of darkness. The cries of the saints for healing, peace, deliverance, wisdom, and righteousness are heard by God and elicit His response. Other New Covenant passages reinforce this life of continual prayer: “pray without ceasing” (1Thessalonians 5:17), “be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6 NASB95), and the assurance that “the effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much” (James 5:16 NASB95). In this way, Revelation portrays prayer not as passive devotion but as active participation in God's triumph over evil and the restoration of creation. Malachi 1–2: How Not to Offer Incense Malachi speaks to a weary and disillusioned people and to a corrupt priesthood who, amid spiritual decline, begin to question the love and faithfulness of Adonai Malachi 1:11–2:9 uses incense language to rebuke corrupt worship. “For from the rising of the sun even to its setting,My name will be great among the nations,And in every place incense is going to be offered to My name, and a grain offering that is pure…” Malachi 1:11 NASB95 This universal vision is immediately contrasted with the failed priesthood of Malachi's day. Priests bring stolen, lame, and sick animals — offerings that cost them little and misrepresent God's holiness. God calls such behavior “despising” His name (Malachi 1:12–13). In Mal 2:3 the language becomes graphic: God threatens to spread the refuse — literally, the vomit of their festival sacrifices — on their faces. Instead of fragrant incense, their corrupted offerings produce stench. The priests' hypocrisy becomes a stumbling block for the people, leading them astray rather than drawing them near. This is not merely ancient history. It warns any community claiming to serve the God of Israel, including Messianic congregations and the wider body of Messiah. Ritual correctness without integrity of heart can become an abomination, just as Isaiah 1:11–15 says, where God refuses multiplied sacrifices and prayers because they are joined with iniquity. Crisis, Reboot, and Return to Torah Historically, Malachi stands after the Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the Second Temple. There has been a kind of spiritual letdown: the people expected a glorious restoration, but they remain under foreign empires and spiritual zeal has cooled. The prophet confronts a generation coasting on older revivals. In times of crisis, people often cry out to God and even see short-term renewal, but unless each generation reboots back to God's original instructions — the תּוֹרָה Torah (“instruction”) — the slide returns. This “reboot” analogy works well: when a computer system is corrupted, you shut it down and restart from the manufacturer's instructions. Spiritually, that means returning to what God commanded through Moses at Horeb/Sinai (Malachi 4:4), testing every new word, teaching, or movement against the standard of Scripture (cf. Deuteronomy 13; 18). Elijah, the Day of the LORD, and Multiple Fulfillments Malachi ends not in despair but hope (Malachi 4:1–6). A coming “day” will burn like a furnace, consuming the arrogant and evildoers. Yet for those who fear God's name, “the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings” (Malachi 4:2, NASB 1995). God promises to send אֵלִיָּהוּ Eliyahu (Elijah) before the great and terrible day of the LORD, to turn hearts — fathers to children, children to fathers. In the Apostolic Writings, Yeshua identifies Yochanan the Immerser (John the Baptist) as an Elijah‑figure for His generation (e.g., Matthew 11:14). Yet Revelation's two witnesses, calling down fire from heaven, again echo Elijah's ministry, suggesting multiple fulfillments of the Elijah pattern — each time God confronts widespread corruption and calls His people back to faithfulness. In each case, God's goal is the same: to distinguish between those who merely play at religion and those truly devoted (ḥerem) to Him, and to invite the undecided to step off the fence and follow truth. The Power of Pure, Hidden Prayer An ancient commentary on Malachi 1:11 notes how pure prayer — even when silent and hidden — is more precious than loud, showy words. Purity of heart constitutes prayer more than do all the prayers that are uttered out loud, and silence united to a mind that is sincere is better than a loud voice of someone crying out. My beloved, give me now your heart and your thought, and hear about the power of pure prayer; see how our righteous ancestors excelled in their prayer before God and how it served them as a “pure offering.” For it was through prayer that offerings were accepted, and it was prayer again that averted the flood from Noah. Prayer has healed barrenness, prayer has overthrown armies, prayer has revealed mysteries, prayer has divided the sea, prayer made a passage through the Jordan. It held back the sun, it made the moon stand still, it destroyed the unclean, it caused fire to descend. Prayer closed up the heaven, prayer raised up from the pit, rescued from the fire and saved from the sea. Aphrahat the Persian Sage (A.D. 270–345) It recalls how prayer in Scripture: Averts judgment (Noah and the Flood; intercession in the Prophets) Heals barrenness (Hannah) Overcomes armies Divides seas and rivers Stops the sun and moon Calls down or withholds fire and rain Raises up from the pit and rescues from danger Yeshua Himself warns against prayer done to impress others (Matthew 6:5–6). Public prayer is not wrong, but when its motive is human recognition, the “reward” is already spent. Like Hannah, genuine prayer may be misunderstood outwardly, but God hears the heart poured out. This aligns with the calling of Israel and the nations in Messiah: to become a people whose lives are living sacrifices (cf. Romans 12:1), whose prayers are like incense on the golden altar, and whose worship is qadosh qadashim — most holy to the LORD. The post ‘Most holy to the LORD’: What the altar of incense reveals about prayer (Exodus 30; Malachi 1–2; John 17; Revelation 8) appeared first on Hallel Fellowship.

Rev. Cyril A. Stevens – Sermon 0044AB recorded on April 12, 1979 teaching from John 17:1-18:1 – The Lord’s Prayer – The Hour is Come; Father Glorify Me – Special Easter Meetings. Pastor Cyril A. Stevens explores the profound significance of Jesus's final moments, distinguishing the High Priestly Prayer of John 17 from the model prayer given…

Prayer Series: The Great High Priestly Prayer of the Lord Jesus Christ in John 17-Lesson # 35

Prayer Series: The Great High Priestly Prayer of the Lord Jesus Christ in John 17-Lesson # 35

Tired of chasing transformation through self-help? In this message, we discover Jesus's prayer in John 17:17: "Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth." We explore what it means to be sanctified (separated from sin AND set apart for God's purpose) and why God's Word isn't just true—it IS the truth, the final authority for our lives. If you've been looking for change in all the wrong places, this message points you to the only source of real transformation.

Pastor Rodney unpacked Jesus' High Priestly Prayer in John 17, showing that when Jesus prays, He reveals what matters most: the Father's glory displayed through believers united in salvation (knowing God), sanctification (being made like Jesus), and mission (reaching those yet to believe). Following Jesus means praying like Him—growing in real relationship with God through grace, the Word, the Spirit, and community, while intentionally interceding by name for others to come to know Christ. Listen and be challenged. Support the show

John 17:1-5. Preached Sunday, January 26, 2026.

John 17:1-5. Preached Sunday, January 26, 2026.

This week, we take a look at John chapter 17, known as The High Priestly Prayer, a prayer Jesus prayed right before He was betrayed, arrested, and crucified. A good portion of that prayer is for unity, for us to be unified. The world we live in seems intent on dividing us...Jesus' prayer was for us to have unity.

In today's final episode of a short series, Pastor Al Dagel speaks of the third segment of Jesus' High Priestly Prayer, in which Jesus prays for those of us who have trusted in Him for salvation.  This is for our encouragement!

The High Priestly Prayer of Jesus Series by Pastor Jason Duff The post Jesus Prays for Our Destiny – John 17:24-26 appeared first on Calvary Vista.

The Gospel of John Week 22 Scripture: John 17:1-21. Pastor starts today's class off with an interesting observation. The other three gospels, Matthew, Mark, and Luke mention the prayers of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, but John does not. John talks about the prayer that occurred before Jesus got to the garden, the prayer He prayed on the way there.  When we put those two different sets of prayers together (the ones from John on the way, and the ones from the other writers at the Garden) it gives us a greater sense of Jesus' heart during this evening, but also of the assurance the He had from the Father that this is going to turn out for our deliverance.  In Hebrews 12:2-3, we are encouraged to "fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men that you may not grow weary and lose hope." And so we are blessed by Jesus' obedience and faithfulness so that we also do not grow weary or lose hope, but that we see and understand that God is in control. Jesus and His disciples have left the upper room and are walking to the Garden of Gethsemane. In John 17:1-2 we see Him pause on His way to the garden to pray what has been referred to as the "High Priestly Prayer." Jesus begins with, "Father." It's personal and it's an example for us to be personal with God as well. Jesus says, "Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you." The Father is glorified by the obedience of Jesus, His Son, by Jesus being obedient even unto death on the cross.  Jesus continues, "For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent."  What is eternal life? It is eternal life to know the Father and know the Son and to be in relationship with the Living God. In verse 6 Jesus starts to pray for His disciples and we see the love He has for them. He sees them as precious and loved. He looks past their mistakes and loves them and He looks at us the same way, He looks past our mistakes and loves us. We are precious to Him. We don't need to remember our failures and allow those to control us. We remember what God says about who we are and allow Him to guide and direct us as His loved children. As Jesus' prayer continues we see Him blessing them, interceding for them and praying for their protection. And He prays for them to be protected in the power of the Father's name. God's name IS His character and Jesus has revealed His name, His character, because if you want to know what the Father is like, you look at the Son. Jesus goes on to pray that he wants the full measure of His joy within His disciples. He says this knowing that in just a bit He will be arrested, tried and crucified. But what He also knows is that there is victory coming. He focused on the outcome, that of giving us an eternity with Him for all who believe in Him. And that's what He wants them to hold onto, too. And he prays for their protection from the evil one and that they would be set apart for the Father's work and His purposes. Then Jesus' prayer moves from the 12 to pray about us. verses 20-21, "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me."  Pastor talks about how Jesus continues to pray for us and believers today. In Hebrews 7:25 we read, "Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them." (Intercede is to pray for). Jesus is praying that we will live in unity with God and one another. We want to love as He loved, obey as He obeyed, speak as He speaks, follow as He followed. To go where He goes.  He prays unity of the believers, so that others, non-believers, the world, will know that God the Father sent Jesus because of His love for us and that is the love we share together and with others. We should flee religion and rush to the Father, seeking out a relationship with Him through faith in the Lord Jesus and becoming transformed. It's not about knowing certain facts, it's about knowing God. It's not about knowing the answer to how to get to heaven. It's is about knowing the One who get us to heaven!!  Jesus says, "no-one comes to the Father, except through Me." And that is Jesus; prayer, complete unity, unity with Him, even as He and the Father are one. Jesus goes on with, "Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world." Wow, He wants to spend eternity with us. We are truly loved! We may live in His presence and live in relationship with Him, basking in His love and taking to heart what He has promised: "I am always with you, even to the end of the age." And then we read that when He had finished praying, Jesus left with His disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. (And they continued to the Garden of Gethsemane.) Our website – https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01     ⁃    The Gospel of John study is part five of five of our Two Year Study of the Gospels.      ⁃    The Gospel of John may be one of the most powerful books ever written. Many people have come to faith after reading only this book of the Bible.  Scholarly and archeological discoveries in recent decades give us new insight on details in the Gospel of John. We can now understand it as the most Jewish rather than the most "Gentile/Greek" of the Gospels, and when we do that we see many things that we missed before. Our 2 year study of the gospels is great for large group, small group or home group study and can be started at any time!

The High Priestly Prayer of Jesus Series by Pastor Rob Salvato The post Jesus Prays for the Church – John 17:20-23 appeared first on Calvary Vista.

This sermon explores Jesus' High Priestly Prayer in John 17, focusing on verses 20-21 and the theme of Christian unity. Pastor Joe Fant emphasizes that true Christian unity is not uniformity but rather diverse people becoming one as they pursue a shared purpose through the gospel. Unity flows from our union with Christ and is forged through shared spiritual experiences, particularly conversion. The sermon distinguishes between theological unity (our union with God through Christ) and visible unity (how that union is displayed to the world). Pastor Fant applies these truths practically to the local church context, explaining that unity gives the church strength, must be grounded in the gospel rather than preferences or secondary issues, and serves as a testimony to the world. Using the concept of "theological triage," the sermon concludes by explaining how to distinguish between first-tier gospel issues worth dying for, second-tier issues that define church membership, and third-tier issues where Christians can differ without division. Key Points: Unity is diverse people becoming one as they pursue a shared purpose, not uniformity or everyone being the same Unity is forged through shared experiences, especially the shared experience of conversion through the gospel Christian unity flows from the transforming work of the gospel and our union with Christ God is eternally loving because He is Trinity—the Father has loved the Son for all eternity When unified with Christ, believers receive the Father's everlasting eternal love Unity in the church gives strength—like redwood trees with interconnected roots Our unity must be grounded in the gospel, not preferences, traditions, worship styles, or secondary theological issues Threats to our unity are threats to our gospel testimony to the world Unity with other local churches is based on gospel clarity, not denominational affiliation Theological triage: First-tier issues (worth dying for—Trinity, deity of Christ, substitutionary atonement), second-tier issues (church membership matters—baptism, church governance), and third-tier issues (personal convictions—end times details, entertainment choices) The early church was known by the testimony: "Behold, how these Christians love one another" Scripture Reference: John 17 (entire chapter, with emphasis on verses 20-21) John 13:34-35 (new commandment to love one another) Hebrews 7:23-26 (Christ as high priest making intercession) 1 Corinthians 15:3 (matters of first importance) Jude 1:3 (the faith once for all delivered to the saints) Ephesians 4:5 (one faith) Romans 14 (not arguing over opinions) Mark 7 (Jesus warning about elevating tradition to doctrine) Isaiah 7:14 (virgin birth prophecy)

The High Priestly Prayer of Jesus Series by Pastor Jason Duff The post Jesus Prays for His Disciples Part 2 – John 17:11-19 appeared first on Calvary Vista.

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: Part 2: How Does Jesus' Prayer Still Shape the World Today?Scripture:

Harvest Podcast | The Gospel of John | Episode 10 | The High Priestly Prayer | In Episode 10 of The Harvest Podcast, host Shawn Gray is joined by Brenna Bullock and special guest Dr. Ed Robb, Founding Pastor and Pastor Emeritus of The Woodlands Methodist Church. Together they explore the powerful truth of John 17, where Jesus prays for His disciples—and for all who would come to believe through them.The conversation unpacks what it means to be loved, protected, and united through the interceding prayer of Christ, offering deep encouragement for believers today.

The High Priestly Prayer of Jesus Series by Pastor Rob Salvato The post Jesus Prays for His Disciples Part 1 – John 17:6-10 appeared first on Calvary Vista.

The High Priestly Prayer of Jesus Series by Pastor Jason Duff The post Jesus Prays for Himself – John 17:1-5 appeared first on Calvary Vista.

He Was When We Were Not! MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful exploration of Jesus' identity, we delve into the profound High Priestly Prayer found in John 17. This prayer reveals Jesus not just as a teacher or prophet, but as one who shares in the divine nature with God the Father. We're challenged to consider: Who is Jesus to us personally? The prayer showcases Jesus' unique relationship with the Father, calling Him 'Father' over 160 times in the Gospels. This intimacy extends to us as believers, inviting us into the very fellowship of the Trinity. As we contemplate this, we're reminded that our unity as Christians is rooted in our union with God Himself. The prayer also reveals Jesus' eternal existence and His role in creation, emphasizing His divinity. This understanding transforms how we view the cross - not as a tragedy, but as our salvation. Let's reflect on how this deeper knowledge of Jesus' nature can impact our daily walk with Him and our relationships with others.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Inadequacy. Rather, I will abide in the Lord's Abundance. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): James 1:21-25; John 17 (entire chapter); John 10:30; John 10:27-33; Colossians 1:15; Colossians 1:19; 2 Peter 1:4 WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “New Day for Humanity ” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Join Us for Worship: Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM https://www.flourishinggrace.org/plan-your-visit In this powerful conclusion to The Way of Discipleship series, Pastor Brett Turner unpacks the biblical call to consecration—being set apart not just for good works, but for a sacred and holy purpose. Preaching from 2 Corinthians 6:1–2 and 1 Chronicles 13–15, he challenges us to examine whether we have received the grace of God in vain and invites us to live lives marked by holiness, obedience, and transformation. This message draws a clear picture of what a flourishing life in Jesus looks like, not as a set of steps to complete but as a continuous journey of growth rooted in God's grace. Throughout the sermon, Brett addresses the common assumptions that often hinder our spiritual growth. Many believers assume that simply doing good things or living morally upright lives equates to holiness. But Scripture reveals that consecration is more than being “set apart”—it is being set apart for a sacred and holy purpose. He reminds us that God's call to holiness, as seen in 1 Peter 1:16, is not about perfection but direction, a daily response to God's invitation to live differently. Drawing from the story of David's attempts to bring the Ark of the Covenant back to Israel, Brett explores how even good intentions can lead to failure when they are not aligned with God's Word. David initially moved the Ark in a way that imitated the culture around him rather than obeying the specific commands God had given. The result was tragedy, but also a moment of grace when David realized the importance of doing things God's way instead of his own. Brett emphasizes that receiving God's grace in vain means wanting His love, mercy, and blessing to flow to us without allowing His glory and holiness to flow through us. A consecrated life, by contrast, lets the grace of God transform every part of our being. He warns of the danger of treating God casually—approaching worship without awe, rolling into church late, or engaging with Scripture as routine rather than revelation. Such attitudes reveal how easily we can become spiritually apathetic, allowing cultural influences and distractions to dull our reverence for God. Brett challenges listeners to come before God expecting to meet with Him, to encounter the living Lord who desires a relationship that transforms us from the inside out. Another key theme of the message is the tension between comfort and holiness. Brett reminds us that while God is indeed the God of all comfort, His comfort meets us in our afflictions, not in their absence. Using 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 and Psalm 34:18, he explains that God's presence in hardship is what brings true peace and spiritual growth. The Christian life is not about escaping difficulty but about finding God faithful in the middle of it. Through personal reflection on his wife's recent cancer diagnosis, Brett shares how his own prayers have shifted from asking God to remove the hardship to asking how God might reveal His presence and purpose through it. This vulnerable moment illustrates what it means to be consecrated—to trust that God's way, even when painful, is always better and leads to deeper flourishing. The sermon culminates with a powerful look at Jesus' High Priestly Prayer in John 17, where Jesus declares that He consecrates Himself so that His followers may be sanctified in truth. Brett explains that Jesus set Himself apart for a sacred and holy purpose so that we could be made holy through Him. When He went to the cross, there was nothing casual or comfortable about His obedience—it was total surrender. His consecration secured our salvation and opened the way for God's glory to dwell in us. Brett urges listeners to consider whether their lives reflect that glory or whether they have settled for a form of faith that merely “seems good.”

Unity is far more than being Kind to one another MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful exploration of Jesus' identity, we delve into the profound High Priestly Prayer found in John 17. This prayer reveals Jesus not just as a teacher or prophet, but as one who shares in the divine nature with God the Father. We're challenged to consider: Who is Jesus to us personally? The prayer showcases Jesus' unique relationship with the Father, calling Him 'Father' over 160 times in the Gospels. This intimacy extends to us as believers, inviting us into the very fellowship of the Trinity. As we contemplate this, we're reminded that our unity as Christians is rooted in our union with God Himself. The prayer also reveals Jesus' eternal existence and His role in creation, emphasizing His divinity. This understanding transforms how we view the cross - not as a tragedy, but as our salvation. Let's reflect on how this deeper knowledge of Jesus' nature can impact our daily walk with Him and our relationships with others.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Evil Ways. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Goodness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): James 1:21-25; John 17 (entire chapter); John 10:30; John 10:27-33; Colossians 1:15; Colossians 1:19; 2 Peter 1:4. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Jesus in Prayer” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

We're back for the next chapter of our journey through the Gospel of John!In Part Five of Abide in His Love, we'll dive into John 14–17 — some of the most intimate, powerful words Jesus ever spoke. These are His final teachings to the disciples before His Passion… and they're meant for us, too.What does it really mean to remain in Christ?How do we bear lasting fruit in our everyday lives?What does Jesus tell us about the Holy Spirit, obedience, and friendship with God?Join Jenna and Steph for a live Bible study as we unpack Jesus' Farewell Discourse and High Priestly Prayer, learning together how to stay rooted in love, prayer, and purpose.Grab your Bible, invite a friend, and let's abide in Him.

The Climax of the Upper Room Discourse is Jesus' high priestly prayer. The climax of Jesus' high priestly prayer is a prayer for those who would believe in Him. Join me in this episode of Wisdom from Above as we discover how Jesus prayed for us church-age believers.

Jesus pours out his heart in prayer for all those who believe in Him. He prays for unity, joy, protection, and sanctification. Join me as we explore these four requests..

Our Unity is Evidence We Partake of the Divine Nature MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful exploration of Jesus' identity, we delve into the profound High Priestly Prayer found in John 17. This prayer reveals Jesus not just as a teacher or prophet, but as one who shares in the divine nature with God the Father. We're challenged to consider: Who is Jesus to us personally? The prayer showcases Jesus' unique relationship with the Father, calling Him 'Father' over 160 times in the Gospels. This intimacy extends to us as believers, inviting us into the very fellowship of the Trinity. As we contemplate this, we're reminded that our unity as Christians is rooted in our union with God Himself. The prayer also reveals Jesus' eternal existence and His role in creation, emphasizing His divinity. This understanding transforms how we view the cross - not as a tragedy, but as our salvation. Let's reflect on how this deeper knowledge of Jesus' nature can impact our daily walk with Him and our relationships with others.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Anger. Rather, I will abide in the Lord's Forgiveness. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): James 1:21-25; John 17 (entire chapter); John 10:30; John 10:27-33; Colossians 1:15; Colossians 1:19; 2 Peter 1:4 A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “The Promise of the Eternal”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

The right motive, the right mission and the right milestone are all highlighted in Jesus' high priestly prayer in John 17:1-5. This part of Jesus' prayer serves as a challenge to us to have the right motive the right mission, and the right milestone in our lives as well!

On today's Bible Answer Man broadcast, we present an episode of the Hank Unplugged podcast. Hank's guest is Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio, author of When the Church Was Young: Voices of the Early Fathers. Hank and Dr. D'Ambrosio discuss the importance of unity within the body of Christ as an answer to the Lord's High Priestly Prayer, St. Clement of Rome and his letter to the Corinthians dealing with division in the Church, the martyrdom of Ignatius of Antioch, and understanding the importance of holy tradition.

Christians persevere in faith because Christ preserves us by His intercession. We grow in holiness because the Lord works powerfully through His Word. From his expositional series in the gospel of John, today R.C. Sproul continues his close look at Jesus' High Priestly Prayer. Get R.C. Sproul's commentary on the gospel of John for your donation of any amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4230/john-commentary   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request the ebook edition of the John commentary for your donation of any amount: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global   Meet Today's Teacher:   R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew's Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine.   Meet the Host:   Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts