How comforting it should be that no matter what comes our way in life, the risen Son intercedes always for his people! As we return to John 17, we read how the Lord Jesus prayed on the night of his arrest for those who belong to him by faith, giving all believers great assurance of being kept and united by the Father. With this comes inexplicable joy that is not a result of circumstances. Instead, it is divine joy that rests in Christ alone.

Outline:

· The Marks of Disciples

· Kept and United

· Divine Joy

For the glory of God, he displayed his amazing attributes to all humanity in the outworking of the eternal plan to redeem sinners through faith in Jesus Christ. As Jesus begins to pray on the evening of his arrest, we are reminded of the love of God and the outworking of salvation for his glory.

· Redemption Planned

· Redemption Power

· Redeemed Relationship

· Redemptive Reverence

Jesus concludes his teaching on the night of his arrest with words of great encouragement that point to the finished work on the cross and the gift of the Holy Spirit. He reminds us that no matter what we may face in the world for holding fast to the faith once-for-all delivered to the saints, we must take heart. Our life is in Christ, and Jesus has overcome the world. Our joy and peace is founded upon the very love of the Father for all who follow Jesus as Lord.

Outline:

· Just a Little While

· The Fountainhead of Joy

· A Loving Father

· More Than Conquerors