John 17:1-5 The First Part of "the Holy Of Holies of the Gospel Record"

I decided to take Jesus’ magnificent prayer in sections to make sure and get the most out of it.  My commentary calls it “the Holy of Holies of the gospel record” and says that we should approach it “in a spirit of humility and worship.  To think that we are privileged to listen in as God the Son converses with His Father just as He is about to give His life as a ransom for sinners!”

It’s a prayer of an overcomer, not a victim.  He’s about to complete the Work God gave Him to do.  He can take back on the glory He had before leaving Heaven.  The glory God gives Jesus will also come back to glorify God.

Jesus also defines eternal life.  “It is knowing God personally.  Not just knowing about him, but having a personal relationship with Him through faith in Jesus Christ,” my commentary said.  And it would take an eternity to know the infinite God!  Knowing God would also mean knowing Jesus Christ fully, whom God sent.  My commentary said it’s not enough to simply believe in God.  Jesus also showed that people may be devoutly religious and still not know God.  “Eternal life is not something we earn by character or conduct; it is a gift we receive by admitting we are sinners, repenting, and believing on Jesus Christ and Jesus Christ alone.”

Father, I loved hearing this intimate conversation between Your Son and You.  And I can’t wait to hear more – especially the part where He prayed for me.

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford