Jesus’ prayer for the Eleven (17:6-19) continues in 9-10 with affirmations regarding His three-year companions in union with Father, Son, and Spirit. Father and Son saw something honorable and of worth in these followers. Jesus interceded for them because they were gifts from the Father (17:9a; Romans 8:34). There is a paradox here. God called them and gave them to the Son, while Jesus saved and trained them and gave them to the Father.
Jesus saw the disciples as God’s precious possessions (17:9b; Malachi 3:17)). In carrying out His work under the leadership of the Holy Spirit, they would show their appreciation to Jesus by faithful service. They did not allow status to become pride of place. They understood that participating in Jesus’ work came by His grace and power. They would prove to be faithful and make tremendous effort to live up to the honor bestowed on them. Clarence Lewis observed there is “no actuality without a corresponding potentiality.” Regarding Jesus’ disciples, I take that to mean they were saved and empowered so they would go to work for Jesus.
Jesus and the Father saw the disciples as Elton Trueblood wrote: “The Company of the Committed” (17:10a). Verse 10 assumes the equality of Father and Son and relates that Jesus’ disciples enjoyed a “place at the table” with God. They did not deserve to hold this status, but through the love and grace of God they could be counted in company with Him.
The disciples trusted in Jesus, and through their obedience they brought Him the honor and glory He so richly deserved (17:10b). Jesus always possessed glory, so glorifying Him meant that they revealed His glory through what they did in His name: “I am crowned with glory in them” (Weymouth). The founding of the modern mission movement by William Carey well illustrates Jesus’ words. Carey preached a sermon from Isaiah 54:2-3 with the theme: “Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God.” The disciples had glorified Jesus in measure to this point and would glorify Him in unmeasured fullness in coming days.
Jesus believed these disciples would become solid contributors to the glory of God. Their ministry provides great inspiration for followers of Jesus today. Serving the Lord can reveal the glory of the Savior who graces them into His kingdom by living and working for the One who gave them eternal life with Him.
Dr. David Moore can be contacted at dm5867se@outlook.com
