John 17:20-26.
Jesus prayed for his disciples and for all those who would believe in Him because of their message (that's Us). In his prayer, Jesus connects oneness with God--communion-- and oneness with each other--community-- with a living witness to the world that Jesus came from God and that God loves us.
John 17:21, 23, 26. Ephesians 3:17-19. Galatians 5:22-25.
Communion with God produces a natural witness to the world.
Jesus prayed that we would be one with God through Him, so that the world would see and believe that what Jesus taught was true--that God sent Him. When we are one with God and walk in communion with Him, our lives are transformed in such a way that others can witness God at work in us. By coming into an understanding that God loves us with the same love He has for His Son Jesus, and allowing God's Spirit to do the work of reconstructing our lives, there is a natural (no straining or fretting involved) witness to the world that Jesus is truly the Son of God.
John 17:22-23. Philippians 2:1-4. Colossians 3:16-17.
Communion with God produces Community among believers.
Jesus prayed that we would be one with God through Him, so that we might be one with each other--community. When we are one with God, and begin to understand His love for us, we also see His love for those around us. God's Spirit at work within us produces a love for one another that mirrors His love for us. Out of that love, grows a bond of unity and community that is rare in the world.
John 17:23. John 13:34-35. John 15:12-14.
Community among believers produces a natural witness to the world.
Jesus prayed that we would be one with each other so that the world would know that God sent Him, and that God loves us with the same love He has for Jesus. Our bond of love for one another shows the world that we are followers of Christ. Interesting that Jesus did not say that the world would know because we made banners, or t-shirts, or preached on the street, but because we love one another!
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