Not Just THESE Guys! Jesus Prays for Future Believers, Because the Disciples Weren’t Enough to Handle on Their Own.
Section 1. Welcome and Announcements
Good morning, everyone! It’s such a joy to see all of you here today, whether you’re joining us in person or tuning in online. We’re grateful that we can come together as a church family to draw closer to God and to experience His love in community. Today, we’re reminded of Jesus’ heartfelt prayer for all believers—to be united in love and truth, just as He and the Father are united.
This Week’s Church Announcements:
Upcoming Events
- Bible Study Starts Wednesday at 7 PM — Dive deeper into Scripture and grow in your faith.
- Youth Group Meets Next Friday — An evening of fun, fellowship, and spiritual encouragement.
- Community Outreach Day — Join us next Saturday as we serve those in need with love and compassion.
Community Updates
- We continue to pray for our community and those impacted by recent events. If you have prayer requests or ways we can support you, please reach out or fill out a pastoral care card.
Remember, church is more than just a weekly gathering—it’s a family where we support and uplift one another. We’re so glad you’re here today, ready to worship and be encouraged in God’s Word!
Section 2. Call to Worship
Let’s focus our hearts now on the God who welcomes us with open arms. As Jesus prayed for us, He longed for unity and love among His followers. Today, we come to be reminded that we are loved by God, called to live in His truth, and united in His Spirit.
Reader: (John 17:20-21)
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.
Congregation:
Lord, we come to you today, united in Your love.
Help us to live as one, reflecting Your unity to the world.
Reader:
I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity.
(John 17:22-23)
Congregation:
Fill our hearts with Your love, O God, that we may be one in You and in each other.
All Together:
Lord, we praise You for the gift of unity and the promise of Your presence among us. May our worship today draw us closer to You and to each other. Amen.
Heavenly Father, thank You for bringing us together today in Your Presence. We are grateful for the gift of community and for the love that unites us as Your children. Lord, as we open our hearts to You, help us to truly feel Your Spirit moving among us. May our worship be pleasing in Your sight, and may we leave here encouraged, strengthened, and renewed in our faith.
Please be with each person here today—meet them right where they are, and fill their hearts with Your peace and Your love. Let this time of worship draw us closer to You and to one another, so that we may reflect Your grace and Your truth.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Section 4. Praise and Worship
Now, let’s lift our hearts in worship, praising our God for His goodness, His love, and His faithfulness. Whether we sing contemporary songs that lift our spirits or traditional hymns that deepen our roots in faith, our focus is to honor and adore the Lord. Today, our worship team will lead us in songs that remind us of God’s greatness and His love that never fails.
Let’s sing together with joy and gratitude, knowing that our praise is a sweet offering to our Lord.
Suggested Songs:
- “How Great Is Our God”
- “Amazing Grace” (or your preferred hymn)
- “Shout to the Lord”
May our songs today open our hearts fully to His presence, and may we be reminded that worship is not just what we do, but who we are—a people created to praise.
Section 5. Scripture Reading
Today, we’re grounded in the words of Jesus from John 17:20-26. This passage reveals the heart of our Savior, who prays for us—to be united, to know His love, and to live in His truth. As we read, let’s open our hearts to God’s message and allow His words to deepen our understanding and faith.
Introduction to the Scripture:
In this powerful prayer, Jesus prays for all believers—past, present, and future. He longs for us to experience the unity and love that exist between Him and the Father. This passage is a reminder that we are part of God’s great plan, called to live in His love and reflect His glory to the world.
Bible Passage (NIV) John 17:20-26: Jesus Prays for All Believers
20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 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. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 23 I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
24 “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.
25 “Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. 26 I have made you[a] known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.”
Section 6. Pastoral Prayer
Gracious Lord, our Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for Your love and for the gift of community. We thank You that through Jesus, we are united in Your Spirit and called to reflect Your love to a world that desperately needs You. Today, we lift up those among us who are hurting—those seeking peace, comfort, or healing. May Your presence bring reassurance and hope.
We pray for our church family, that we would be a shining light of Your love, unity, and grace. Break down walls that divide us and help us to see one another through Your eyes. Fill us anew with Your Spirit so that we can live out Your love boldly every day.
In the name of Jesus, we pray, trusting Your goodness and grace to work in and through us.
(Pause for a moment of silent prayer or personal reflection.)
Congregational Prayer Response:
All together:
“May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that You sent me and have loved them even as You have loved me.” (John 17:23)
We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Section 7. Offering
As we prepare to give our tithes and offerings today, let’s remember that giving is an act of worship—a loving response to God’s abundant grace in our lives. When we give, it’s not just about finances; it’s about trusting God to use our gifts to expand His kingdom, care for those in need, and share His love with others.
Your giving, no matter the size, makes a difference. It’s a symbol of our gratitude and our commitment to live out our faith through action. Let’s give cheerfully, with joyful hearts, knowing that God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7).
A Prayer of Thanks:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your many blessings. As we bring our tithes and offerings today, we do so with grateful hearts. Use these gifts to bring hope to the broken, healing to the hurting, and Your love to a watching world. May everything we give bring glory to Your name. We trust You to multiply our gifts for Your purpose. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Section 8: Special Music
Now, as we prepare to hear a special musical offering, let’s open our hearts even wider to God’s presence. Music has a unique way of touching our souls and drawing us closer to Him. Whether it’s a heartfelt song, a beautiful hymn, or a contemporary worship piece, this special music is a gift from our worship team to uplift, inspire, and remind us of God’s amazing love.
Let’s listen attentively, allowing the Spirit to move through the melodies and lyrics, encouraging us to trust and follow Jesus more closely.
Bible Study Headline: “The Secret Jesus Prayed for You”
What Most Christians Never Notice Will Change Everything?
Imagine being in the very room where Jesus, hours before His arrest, poured out His heart in prayer. His words weren’t just meant for the disciples standing around Him; they were whispers of hope for your life, your family, your future. He knew these moments—these sacred hours—would change everything. And what He prayed that night still echoes today, carrying the power to transform our hearts and deepen our faith.
Many Christians go through life without realizing they are the reason Jesus longed for unity—above all, He wanted you to experience the depth of His love. It’s a love so profound, so personal, that it can heal wounds, revive hope, and unlock a life of purpose. That’s not just a story. That’s the invitation waiting for you in His prayer.
This isn’t just a Bible Study? It’s a gateway—that one insight, that simple truth—can open your eyes to the real reason Jesus prayed for you.
And right now, I want to give you something that will stir your heart and strengthen your faith—a powerful devotional rooted in His prayer, designed to help you walk closer with Jesus.
Here’s what I’m offering:
- An inspiring Bible study that turns Jesus’ words into a pathway for personal transformation.
- Clear, practical steps you can take today to pursue unity, love, and spiritual growth.
- A gift that helps you uncover the real meaning behind Jesus’ greatest prayer—so you can live with renewed hope and purpose.
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As you explore this sacred message, remember—every word was crafted with love, driven by a heart devoted to helping God’s people see His truth and experience His blessings. Picture yourself sharing this with others—watching lives change as God’s Word comes alive.
Your support keeps this ministry alive. If you find value in this message—if it inspires your heart or your congregation—please consider investing in this ministry with a gift of just $4.99.
We are giving you this devotional for free, but your generosity ensures we can continue to share these life-changing messages. Please click the link below or use this resource at no cost—you decide what’s right for you.
May Jesus pour out His grace upon you and your family during this special time in your life.
Paid Content Section 9. Sermon
Sermon Title: United in Love: Jesus’ Prayer for Discipleship and Unity
