In The World But Not Of
John 17:14-19
May 4, 2025
Christian Vaughn
Jesus is our example.
I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. —John 17:14-16 ESV
Jesus was set apart in God.
Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. —John 17:17 ESV
Jesus was an active person in the world.
As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. —John 17:18 ESV
Jesus took action that declared He was set apart.
And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth. —John 17:19 ESV
Big Idea:
We are to live set apart in the truth of Christ among the world.
SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Memory Verse: Proverbs 2:6
For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.
The goal of these questions is to foster meaningful discussion and to encourage participants to reflect on God’s Word and lead to heart transformation. Feel free to modify or expand upon these questions based on the dynamics and needs of your Small Group.
Read John 17:13-19
(1) Jesus twice says, “they are not of the world” (v. 14, 16). What do you think is the primary distinction Jesus is making between His followers and the “world?” What are some specific examples of values or priorities that might characterize someone who is “of the world” versus someone who is striving to be “not of the world?” How can we live in the world, participating in society and culture without adopting the negative aspects that Jesus seems to be referring to when He says we are “not of the world?”
(2) Jesus says, “the world has hated them because they are not of the world” (v. 14). Have you ever experienced any kind of hatred or opposition for your faith? What did that look like? How did you respond?
(3) Jesus prays that the Father would not take His followers out of the world but keep them from the evil one (v. 15-16). Why do you think Jesus prayed for protection within the world rather than removal from it? What does this tell us about our purpose here?
(4) Jesus prays we will be protected from our spiritual enemy (v. 15). How aware are you of spiritual opposition in your life? How do you discern between external pressures, natural consequences and spiritual attacks?
(5) Jesus prays, “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth” (v. 17). The Greek word for “sanctify” (hagiazo) means to separate from the profane and dedicate to God. How does consistently engaging with Scripture (God’s truth) shape our thinking, desires and actions in a way that makes us more “not of the world?” Can you share a personal example of this?
(6) Jesus says that just as the Father sent Him into the world, He sends us (v. 18). How does seeing yourself as someone who is sent impact your mindset when you are interacting with others? As people who are sent, are there times when withdrawing from certain aspects of the world might be necessary for safety or our spiritual health? How do we balance engagement and healthy boundaries?
(7) Jesus consecrated Himself so we might be sanctified in truth (v. 19). How is your life set apart in ways that others can see and be drawn to Jesus through you? Have you ever had a moment when someone noticed something different about the way you live? If so, what happened? What would it look like to live more intentionally “in the world” but distinctly for Christ?
(8) In looking at how Jesus engaged the world we see that He regularly interacted with those who were considered poor or outcasts. How comfortable are you with engaging in meaningful conversations with people who hold different beliefs or values? What are some challenges and opportunities in doing so?