21.03.21 Sermon Notes

The True Priest

John 17
Series: Hope Displayed | Speaker: James Skinner | March 21, 2021

Jesus prays for Himself. (1-5)

Jesus prays for His disciples. (6-19)

Jesus prays for the world. (20-26)

Reveal Answer
- Love manifested through unity.
Reveal Answer

Questions for Further Discussion

  1. Read John 17:1-5. Jesus prayed for himself, but his prayer wasn’t self-centered. He prayed that his life would glorify God. Think about your prayers for yourself. What are they usually about? If someone heard your prayers, would they say you are more focused on God’s glory or on yourself?
  2. At the end of Jesus’ life, He was able to say that he accomplished the work God gave him to do. Could that be said about you, and if not, is there an adjustment you can make so that you can truthfully say that? Share your thoughts with your group.
  3. Read John 17:6-19 and think about how Jesus prayed for his disciples. Discuss the four things James mentioned from this passage. A) Do you know anyone who has fallen away from the faith? Why do you think they did? B) Do you see much unity in the body of Christ today? C) How do you need to be protected from the evil one? D) What is one way you can grow in your knowledge of the truth?
  4. Read John 17:20-26. How does it affect you to know that Jesus was praying for you just before He was arrested and crucified?
  5. As “priests” we stand between the living and the dead. Do you know anyone who is not a follower of Christ that you can be praying for? Pray for them now and commit to praying for them weekly.
  6. James talked about the unlikely relationship between Simon the Zealot and Matthew the tax collector. Do you have a Christian friend who is very different from you but experience unity with? If so, tell the group about it. If not, pray that God would give you friends who challenge and expand your worldview.

Bible Reading Plan

You’re invited to read along as we survey the story of the Bible! These readings will correspond to next week’s message.

  • Day 1: Matthew 26:30-46
  • Day 2: Matthew 26:47-75
  • Day 3: Matthew 27:1-10
  • Day 4: Matthew 27:11-31
  • Day 5: Matthew 27:32-66