John 17:13
Jesus' prayer found in chapter 17 is a prayer for his disciples/followers and followers to come. He opens this prayer with a prayer for unity and ends this prayer with a prayer for unity. Unity is definitely a major theme. As I look over this prayer I find three additional requests made. I believe these requests have to do with the major request of unity.
In this verse we find Jesus asking that his joy be fulfilled in his followers. Joy is a positive mental attitude. It is combined with hope. For the Christian, joy is knowing that no matter what happens we will one day be in God's presence forever where we will never suffer. It is also knowing that ultimately God is the one in control. Unfortunately, too many Christians are concerned with the here and now and/or control of the here and now. They are more concerned with happiness then they are with joy. They have confused the two. Instead of seeking joy, a positive mental attitude, they seek happiness which comes through the fulfillment of selfish desires. These people eventually become disgruntled, critical, judgmental...unity killers if there ever were any.
A proper mental attitude is essential to unity. All Christians need to remember who is in control and what the future eventually holds. When we can ease up on worrying and control about the here and now and focus on trying to get as many people as possible to experience a future with God we can be a valuable member of a unified body of believers. It is essential that the body of Christ be unified in love, mission and purpose.
Created over 2 years ago
