John 17:17-19: “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.”
Jesus prayed for Himself, for His disciples, and for future believers, before He was betrayed, arrested, His crucifixion, and ascension up to heaven. In John 17, Jesus prayed that they would have unity in love just as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are united in one in the Trinity. This bond is bound in a common purpose, in growing in the truth of God’s Word and applying it to our lives daily while being filled with joy which is a display of God’s glory and a witness to the world. Jesus also prayed that God would “keep them from the evil one.” That God would protect His chosen believers from Satan and all wicked forces (Matt. 6:13) as Satan is a master deceiver. But God is the light that shines and overcomes with peace and comfort, as Ps. 27:1 declares: “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” “Be of good cheer, I have overcome the world (John 16:33).”
Jesus next prayed that God would set the disciples apart – to sanctify them. The definition of the word “sanctify” means to make holy. To free from sin; purify – to set apart. We as believers are being conformed to the image of Jesus Christ which is an on-going process of sanctification and is a result of our salvation. The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin and continues the process of purification. In reading God’s Word it purifies our attitudes, thoughts, and actions which involves the continual change in us of this word – sanctification. As we grow in Christ our life should reveal the character of Christ and His presence, as we become conformed to the truth as 1 Thess. 5:23 states: “Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
What intimate memories these disciples had of Jesus’ earnest prayer for them, to His Father, before His death, burial, and resurrection up to Heaven, that was just hours away, and who is the continuing intercessor. Romans 8:34 states: “Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died – more than that, who was raised – who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.”
What do you think Christ is interceding with God for you about right now?
As you read God’s Word, what verses give you inner joy, power for holy living, and more love for Christ and for others? How is that sanctifying you with the truth found in God’s Word?
Warren Wiersbe has said: “How can we be overcome by the world when we have the Word of God to enlighten us, enable us, and encourage us?” Revelation 22:20 declares: “He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come
Listen to David Crowder – Red Letters (Official Music Video).
I look forward to reading these precious words that God puts on your heart, they are a blessing to all who sees them. And how God leads you to these songs that touch my heart every time I hear them. Thank you for your blog.
Thank you for your encouraging comments Michelle! You bless my heart! When I discovered David Crowder’s song Red Letters I was struck by the words and the message behind it.