Reading the Word

John 17:14–19 (ESV)

14 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. 15 I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.

Understanding and Applying the Word

Today’s reading comes from a prayer of Jesus on behalf of his disciples. As Jesus, prepared to depart the world and return to the Father, he knew that he was going to be leaving his followers behind to continue the ministry of the gospel in the world. In preparation for his departure, Jesus prayed that the Father would protect his disciples from the world and from the evil one through sanctifying them in the word of truth, the holy Scriptures.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to continue to live our lives in this world that is often at odds with the teachings of Christ. This can be a difficult task, but we have not been left to do it in our own strength. We have the word of God to teach us and guide us. We have the Holy Spirit at work within us. And we have Jesus Christ seated at the right hand of the Father as our advocate. Yes, we are in the world, but we are called to be different. We are called to be Christ-like. We are called to be other-worldly.

**If you enjoy reading Shaped by the Word, please consider sharing this post on social media. Doing so helps us reach a larger audience. Thanks for reading!

Follow Shaped by the Word on WordPress or Facebook.