Play-by-Play: John (3/3)نموونە

Christ Prays for His Own

Theme verses: “that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.” John 17:21-23

Tom Osborne was one of the most successful coaches in the history of college football. At Nebraska, he won three national championships and thirteen Big 8/Big 12 conference titles during his 25 seasons as head coach. Osborne believed his morning routine was a key factor in his success. During his career, here’s how he began each day.

“I rise at 5:30 a.m. each day and spend 45 minutes in prayer, meditation, and the scriptures, and I have found that this has become the most important part of my day. Often during preparation for a particularly important game, it was convenient to maintain that I was “too busy” to prepare spiritually, as well. There was often not enough time in the day to prepare thoroughly for an opponent, particularly a powerful one. I often felt self-imposed pressure to watch more film, think of all eventualities, and spend more time in meetings. However, I learned over time the more pressure I was under, the less I could afford to ignore my spiritual life.”

Besides praying for himself, Coach Osborne prayed for each of his 100-plus players by name every morning. Jesus also prayed that He and his followers would glorify the Father, John 17. This is often called Jesus’ High Priestly prayer that took place on the eve of his arrest and trials. Jesus also prayed for future believers of every age, which includes all of us.

Christ prays for unity that can supernaturally be seen in the Godhead (17:21-23). The closer we are to Christ, the closer we become to one Christ Prays for His Own 176 another. Dr. Michael Horton sums this up well, “Everything Scripture proposes to be believed and practiced is essential—not equally essential but essential, nonetheless. Christ is king, and we are not in any position to choose which of His decrees we consider binding. Let us then have the humility to submit our consciences to God’s word together, to remain open to the mutual correction of each other by that word, in dependence on the Spirit of truth, so that we might in truth show in all things, charity.”

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete selflessly pray regularly for themselves, teammates, and others to experience unity with the Lord in knowledge and love as they glorify Him.

H.E.A.R.

As you read today’s chapter, journal using the H.E.A.R method:

H (Highlight) - What stands out to you? If something stands out to you, it’s likely God pulling you toward a certain portion of scripture.

E (Explain) - Describe in context the text. Ask questions like: Why was this written? To whom was it originally written? How does this fit with the verses before and after? Why did the Holy Spirit include this passage in the book?

A (Apply) - How do you take this verse beyond the page? Ask questions like: How can this help me? What does this mean today? What would the application of this verse look like in my life? What is God saying to me?

R (Respond) - This is where you will write a measurable response to the truth God revealed. Maybe it will be a call to action, something you will change in the coming week. Maybe it will be a prayer asking God to help you work this truth into your life. Whichever, make sure it is measurable so you can hold yourself accountable in your growth as a disciple.