Jesus' Prayer: Unity, Intercession, and Divine Access
Summary
Today’s passage draws us into the heart of Jesus’ relationship with the Father, as we listen in on his longest recorded prayer in John 17. This is not a parable or a teaching, but the Son of God pouring out his heart before his Father, just hours before the cross. In this sacred moment, Jesus prays for himself, for his disciples, and for all who would believe in him—including us. The prayer is deeply personal, yet cosmic in its scope, as Jesus intercedes for the unity, protection, and sanctification of his followers.
Jesus’ prayer reveals the mystery of his incarnation: fully God, yet fully man, dependent on the Father and the Spirit, modeling for us a life of prayerful communion. He prays as our High Priest, the mediator who gives us direct access to God. Through his sacrifice, the barrier between God and humanity is torn down, and we are invited into the very presence of the Creator. No longer do we need a human intermediary; Jesus himself stands in the gap, interceding for us, and the Father sees us through the righteousness of Christ.
Prayer, as Jesus demonstrates, is multifaceted: adoration, thanksgiving, confession, petition, and intercession. Each aspect draws us deeper into relationship with God and with others. Intercession, in particular, is highlighted—praying on behalf of others aligns our hearts with God’s and invites his will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. Sometimes, we may be the only one praying for someone, and God delights to partner with us in this mysterious work.
A central theme in Jesus’ prayer is unity. He prays that his followers would be one, just as he and the Father are one. This unity is not mere uniformity, but a supernatural harmony that comes from above—a unity that displays the reality of Jesus to the world. When the church walks in unity, the world sees the love of God and the truth of Christ. Division, on the other hand, distorts the image of Christ and hinders the church’s witness.
Unity is both a gift and a calling. God has already made us one in Christ; our task is to maintain and protect that unity, especially in the face of offense or difference. True unity is diversity in harmony, like an orchestra of many instruments playing one song. It is a powerful witness, a source of blessing, and a foretaste of the heavenly community where every tribe and tongue will worship together. The call is to intercede for others, to pursue reconciliation, and to fight for the unity that Christ has already secured.
Key Takeaways
- Jesus as Our High Priest and Intercessor
Jesus’ role as our High Priest means we have direct access to God, not through rituals or human mediators, but through his own sacrifice and ongoing intercession. When the accuser reminds us of our failures, the Father sees only the righteousness of Christ covering us. This access is a privilege that generations longed for, and it should fill us with awe and gratitude every time we approach God in prayer. [01:14:22]
- The Transforming Power of Intercessory Prayer
Interceding for others is not just a spiritual duty; it is a means by which God shapes our hearts to reflect his own. When we pray passionately for someone else’s freedom, healing, or salvation, we begin to see them as God does. Sometimes, God is waiting for us to partner with him in prayer before he moves, and we may be the only one standing in the gap for that person. [01:17:13]
- Unity as a Divine Witness to the World
The unity Jesus prays for is not based on shared interests, culture, or even agreement on every issue, but on the supernatural bond created by the Spirit. When believers walk in unity, the world sees a living testimony that Jesus is real and that God’s love is among us. Disunity, by contrast, undermines our witness and obscures the image of Christ to those who are watching. [01:29:42]
- Unity is Diversity in Harmony, Not Uniformity
Biblical unity is not about everyone being the same, but about diverse people, gifts, and cultures coming together in harmony under Christ. Like an orchestra, each member plays a unique part, but together they create something beautiful that no one could achieve alone. In heaven, every tribe and tongue will worship together, showing that God’s vision for unity includes and celebrates our differences. [01:41:45]
- Maintaining Unity Requires Humility, Forgiveness, and Action
Unity is a gift from God, but it is also something we must fight to maintain. This means being quick to forgive, willing to confront and resolve conflict, and eager to bear with one another in love. Sometimes, the greatest barrier to unity is our own pride or unwillingness to take the first step toward reconciliation, but God calls us to pursue peace and restore relationships for the sake of his body. [01:46:51]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[54:12] - Missionary Introduction
[01:02:52] - How to Access Sermon Notes
[01:03:45] - Setting the Scene: Jesus’ Final Hours
[01:04:36] - Listening to Jesus’ Prayer
[01:05:54] - Jesus Prays for His Disciples
[01:07:03] - Jesus Prays for All Believers
[01:08:58] - Why Did Jesus Pray?
[01:10:47] - Jesus as High Priest and Intercessor
[01:12:59] - The Accuser and Our Access to God
[01:15:17] - Types of Prayer in Scripture
[01:16:34] - The Power of Intercession
[01:19:46] - Eternal Life: Knowing God
[01:22:30] - Jesus’ Prayer for Unity
[01:25:23] - Unity’s Impact on the World
[01:29:42] - Real-Life Example: Unity Restored
[01:33:10] - Unity as Evangelism
[01:35:06] - The Blessing of Unity
[01:37:02] - Unity Comes from Above
[01:38:28] - Supernatural Unity in Christ
[01:41:45] - Maintaining Unity: Our Responsibility
[01:46:51] - Responding: Intercession and Reconciliation
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: Jesus’ Prayer for Unity and Intercession (John 17)
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### Bible Reading
- John 17:1-26 (Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer)
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### Observation Questions
1. In John 17, what are the three main groups Jesus prays for, and what does He specifically ask for each group? [01:10:47]
2. According to Jesus’ prayer, what is the connection between the unity of His followers and the world believing in Him? [01:25:23]
3. What does Jesus say is the source of true unity among believers? Is it based on shared interests, culture, or something else? [01:37:58]
4. How does Jesus describe eternal life in His prayer? What does it mean to “know” God according to this passage? [01:19:46]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Jesus, who is fully God, spend time praying to the Father? What does this reveal about His relationship with the Father and about prayer itself? [01:08:58]
2. The sermon describes Jesus as our High Priest and Intercessor. What does it mean that we have “direct access” to God, and how should this change the way we approach prayer? [01:14:22]
3. Jesus prays for unity “just as” He and the Father are one. What kind of unity is Jesus talking about, and how is it different from simple agreement or sameness? [01:41:45]
4. The sermon says that intercessory prayer (praying for others) shapes our hearts to be more like God’s. Why do you think God chooses to partner with us in prayer for others instead of just acting on His own? [01:17:13]
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon challenged us to pray for someone else every day this week. Who is one person God is putting on your heart to intercede for? What specific need will you pray for, and how will you know if God answers? [01:46:51]
2. Jesus’ prayer for unity is not about everyone being the same, but about “diversity in harmony.” Where do you see diversity in our church or small group, and how can we celebrate and protect that unity? [01:41:45]
3. Think of a time when you experienced division or conflict with another believer. How did it affect your relationship with God and with others? What steps could you take this week to pursue reconciliation or forgiveness? [01:46:51]
4. The sermon said that unity is both a gift and a calling—we are already one in Christ, but we have to “fight to maintain” that unity. What are some practical ways you can help maintain unity in your family, small group, or church? [01:41:45]
5. When you pray, which type of prayer do you use most often: adoration, thanksgiving, confession, petition, or intercession? Which one is missing or needs to grow in your life? [01:15:17]
6. The sermon described how unity in the church is a powerful witness to the world. What is one way you can help make Jesus visible to others through your relationships with other believers? [01:29:42]
7. Is there anyone you need to forgive or reach out to for the sake of unity? What is one step you can take this week to move toward healing that relationship? [01:46:51]
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Closing Prayer:
Ask God to give your group a deeper understanding of His love, to help you intercede for others, and to empower you to walk in unity as a witness to the world.
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus, Our High Priest and Intercessor
Jesus stands as our High Priest, interceding on our behalf before the Father, just as the high priest in the Old Testament entered the holy place to make atonement for the people. Through His sacrifice, we now have direct access to God, no longer needing a human mediator. When the accuser brings up our failures, God sees only the righteousness of Christ covering us. This truth should fill us with awe and gratitude, knowing that Jesus continually advocates for us and that nothing can separate us from the love and presence of God. [01:14:22]
Hebrews 4:14-16 (ESV):
"Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need."
Reflection:
Is there an area of your life where you feel unworthy to approach God? Take a moment to thank Jesus for being your intercessor and boldly bring your needs before the Father today.
Day 2: The Power and Purpose of Prayer
Prayer is more than presenting a list of requests; it is communion with God, involving praise, thanksgiving, confession, petition, and intercession. Jesus modeled a life of prayer, showing dependence on the Father, delight in relationship, and a desire to partner with God’s will. When we pray for others, we begin to see them through God’s eyes, and our hearts align with His purposes. God invites us to participate in His work through prayer, and sometimes, your prayers may be the only ones offered for someone in need. [01:17:13]
Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV):
"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."
Reflection:
Who is one person God is putting on your heart to pray for this week? Commit to intercede for them daily and ask God to show you His heart for them.
Day 3: Unity in the Body of Christ
Jesus’ prayer in John 17 reveals His deep desire for unity among His followers—a unity that reflects the oneness between the Father and the Son. This unity is not just for harmony’s sake, but so that the world may believe in Jesus and know the love of God. When the church walks in unity, it displays the full image of Christ to the world, becoming a powerful witness and drawing others to faith. True unity is a supernatural gift from God, not based on shared interests or backgrounds, but on the Spirit of Christ living within us. [01:26:46]
John 17:20-23 (ESV):
"I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me."
Reflection:
Is there someone in your church or community with whom you need to pursue unity or reconciliation? Ask God for the courage and humility to take a step toward them this week.
Day 4: The Blessing and Power of Unity
Unity among believers brings God’s supernatural blessing and favor, much like the anointing oil running down Aaron’s beard or the dew from Mount Hermon bringing life to dry places. When the church is unified, God commands His blessing, and the world takes notice, seeing the love and presence of God among His people. Unity is not uniformity; it is diversity in harmony, where each person’s unique gifts and backgrounds contribute to the beauty and strength of the body of Christ. [01:36:13]
Psalm 133:1-3 (ESV):
"Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes! It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion! For there the Lord has commanded the blessing, life forevermore."
Reflection:
What is one practical way you can contribute to unity in your family, small group, or church this week? Consider reaching out to encourage or serve someone different from you.
Day 5: Maintaining the Unity of the Spirit
Unity is a gift from God, but we are called to maintain it with humility, gentleness, patience, and love. The challenge is not just to become one, but to stay one, especially in the face of differences and offenses. Biblical unity is not about everyone being the same, but about diverse people working together in harmony for the glory of Jesus. When conflict arises, we are called to pursue reconciliation, forgive, and fight for the bond of peace, knowing that our unity is a powerful testimony to the world. [01:41:45]
Ephesians 4:1-6 (ESV):
"I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
Reflection:
Is there a relationship in your life where you need to seek forgiveness or extend grace to maintain unity? Ask God to show you how to take the first step today.
Quotes
Jesus, the intercessor, came with his blood and his life, and he stands in the gap. And because of our sin, we could not know or connect with God, but Jesus made a way. He made a way. He shed blood, washes away judgment. He stands and intercedes. He mediates. He gave us a way to the Father. [01:13:31] (22 seconds)
Eternal life comes from knowing the true God, meaning there are false gods, meaning they're not really gods, but they're false idols. He is the true God. Jesus is the true one. There is no other. There's no other way to heaven except through them, but it's knowing. It's knowing them. It's not just, that word here, know, is not just knowledge. It's a personal relationship with God. [01:20:02] (24 seconds)
There's a lot of people that have a lot of knowledge about God, but they don't have a relationship with God. And Jesus is saying right here, eternal life comes from knowing me. It's from being born again and having a relationship with God. [01:20:29] (15 seconds)
He says, I'm not asking you, Lord, to take them out of the world. Most of us, that's what we want. Lord, just come. Get me out of this place. He says, I'm not taking them out. I don't want you to take them out of the world. I want you to protect them. Because they need to be in the world. You need to be in the world. You are a light in the darkness. [01:23:58] (18 seconds)
God's word, his truth is what sets us apart. And he says, God's truth is not a truth. It's not a part of a truth. It is what? The truth. And the truth of God does that. [01:24:30] (17 seconds)
When we walk in unity, we are displaying the full image of Christ. Because you've got a little bit of Jesus in you, and you've got a little Jesus, and you've got a little Jesus, and we've got all these gifts and all this stuff. And when we come together and we're walking in one unit, we look like the full image of Christ to the whole world. [01:32:15] (15 seconds)
Biblical unity I want to say this and with my last few minutes here is not uniformity it's diversity with harmony it's diversity and harmony and a lot of times we get frustrated because we see people and we're like oh hold on and we think everybody should look like us and then we get offended when somebody's doesn't do like do what we think or how we think they should do thing that is not what unity is well we're all doing the same thing Lord help me if everybody look like Jeff Sparkman no it would be bad think about an orchestra diversity with harmony if everybody was playing the same note on the trombone I mean you'd be like okay I'm not going to see this but what happens like clarinets and tubas and trumpets and flutes and and and French horns and they're all different all diverse playing in the same key playing harmony playing different octaves and you're like beautiful [01:42:56] (65 seconds)
In heaven we see a picture of unity revelation he said I saw the vast crowd too great to count every tribe every nation and people in language standing in front of the throne before the lamb of God we're going to be unified in heaven and it's going to be every tribe every nation every tongue every language every people does that sound like uniformity to you no different colors and cultures and gifts and personality but we have one goal lifting up Jesus our Lord and Savior [01:44:01] (35 seconds)
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