Being one - Ina ua tasi

Scripture Focus: Ioane 17:20-26

Not for these only do I pray, but for those also who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one; even as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that you sent me. The glory which 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 be perfected into one; that the world may know that you sent me, and loved them, even as you loved me. Father, I desire that they also whom you have given me be with me where I am, that they may see my glory, which you have given me, for you loved me before the foundation of the world. Righteous Father, the world hasn’t known you, but I knew you; and these knew that you sent me. I made known to them your name, and will make it known; that the love with which you loved me may be in them, and I in them.”
- John 17:20-26 (WEB)

Study:

In this passage, Jesus prays for the unity of all believers, expressing a profound desire that they may be one just as He is one with the Father. This unity is not merely a human ideal but a divine calling, grounded in the shared life and love between Jesus and the Father. The oneness Jesus desires is both spiritual and relational, meant to reflect the intimate relationship within the Godhead. Through this unity, the world will recognize Jesus as the sent Messiah and experience the reality of God’s love. Jesus also reveals that the glory given to Him by the Father is shared with believers, uniting them in purpose and presence. Ultimately, this unity leads to perfecting the believers into one body, manifesting a love modeled after God’s eternal love.

Application:

Today, believers are called to live out this unity in practical ways. Being one means transcending differences, embracing forgiveness, and fostering love that mirrors Christ’s love. In a world often marked by division and strife, Christians are called to show a united front that testifies to the power of God’s love. Cultivating oneness involves intentional efforts in relationships within the church and the broader community. When believers embody this unity, they become a powerful witness, drawing others towards faith in Jesus. Our unity also strengthens the church, enabling collective mission and deeper fellowship, reflecting the glory Jesus prayed would be seen.

Reflection Questions:

• What does it mean to you to be one with other believers as Jesus prayed?
• How can you contribute to greater unity in your church and community?
• In what ways does unity among believers serve as a testimony to the world?
• How can you experience and share the love with which Jesus loves us?
• What steps can you take to reflect God’s glory in your relationships today?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of unity through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to be one in spirit and love, just as Jesus and You are one. Teach us to live in harmony, forgive freely, and love deeply, so that our unity may bring glory to Your name and draw others to You. Strengthen our hearts to reflect Your love and to be faithful witnesses to the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Tags: unity in Christ, Jesus prayer for believers, Christian unity, John 17 study, believers one in God, love and unity, church fellowship, witness through unity, oneness in Jesus