Sermon Notes: The U Comes Before I in Unity
Scripture: John 17:1–26
Date: November 16, 2025
Big Idea: Jesus’ final prayer reveals what matters most: glorification, protection, sanctification, and unity.
1. Jesus Prays for Himself (vv. 1–5)
Key Verse: John 17:3 – “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”
Main Point: His glorification benefits us because eternal life is knowing God.
Reflection: Why is God’s self-exaltation loving?
2. Jesus Prays for His Disciples (vv. 6–19)
Three Requests:
Protection – John 17:11–12, 14–15
Not removal from trouble but confidence in God’s keeping power.
Sanctification – John 17:17
Set apart by truth; His Word is truth.
Mission – John 17:18
Sent into the world to proclaim the good news.
Reflection: How are you cooperating with the Spirit in sanctification?
3. Jesus Prays for Future Believers (vv. 20–26)
Unity – John 17:21–23
Oneness modeled after the Trinity; relational unity, not sameness.
Key Verse: Ephesians 4:3 – “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Reflection: What does unity look like in your relationships?
Takeaways
• Eternal life is knowing God and His Son, Jesus Christ.
• Protection means perseverance in faith and confidence in God’s care.
• Sanctification is the ongoing process of becoming like Jesus.
• Unity is a witness to the world. Live as the answer to Jesus’ prayer.
Discussion / Application
• Where do you need God’s protection today?
• What step can you take toward holiness this week?
• How can you promote unity in your church family? How can you be the answer to Jesus’ prayer?
