Devotional John 17:1-5 What About Its Context?

Saturday 2-22-25 7th. Day Of The Weekly Cycle, Shebat 23 5785 64th. Winter Day

Pre-Existence Of Christ
The pre-existence of Christ is a key doctrine in Christian theology, which teaches that Jesus Christ, also known as Yeshua, existed before his human birth in Bethlehem. Here are some important points related to this doctrine:

1. John 1:1-3:
   • "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through Him all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made."
   • This passage from the Gospel of John identifies Jesus (the Word) as existing with God from the very beginning and being instrumental in creation.
2. Colossians 1:15-17:
   • "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together."
   • This emphasizes Christ's role in creation and his existence before all things.
3. Philippians 2:6-7:
   • "Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness."
   • This passage suggests that Jesus existed in the form of God before coming to earth in human form.
4. Hebrews 1:2-3:
   • "But in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word."
   • This further affirms Christ's role in creation and his divine nature.
5. Micah 5:2:
   • "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times."
   • This Old Testament prophecy is often interpreted by Christians as referring to the Messiah's pre-existence.

The concept of Christ's pre-existence highlights his divine nature and eternal existence , emphasizing his role in creation and his continued presence throughout history.

If there's a specific aspect of the pre-existence of Christ you're interested in, or if you'd like to explore related topics, feel free to let me know!
How Are We Suppose To Believe?
Belief is a deeply personal and complex journey, often influenced by many factors like upbringing, personal experiences, teachings, and spiritual encounters. Here are some key steps that can help in developing and nurturing belief:

1. Seek Understanding:
   • Study scriptures and teachings from reliable sources.
   • Engage in discussions with knowledgeable and like-minded individuals.
2. Prayer and Meditation:
   • Spend time in prayer, seeking guidance and clarity from God.
   • Meditate on the teachings and reflect on their meaning.
3. Faith Community:
   • Join a faith community or congregation where you can share experiences and grow together.
   • Participate in communal worship and activities.
4. Personal Experience:
   • Reflect on personal experiences and how they align with your beliefs.
   • Look for moments in your life where you felt a connection to something greater.
5. Live Out Your Beliefs:
   • Put your faith into action by following the principles and values taught in your religion.
   • Practice love, kindness, and compassion towards others.
6. Ask Questions:
   • Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek answers to deepen your understanding.
   • Engage with mentors, religious leaders, or trusted friends who can offer guidance.

Remember, belief is a continuous journey, and it's okay to have doubts and seek answers along the way. Your faith can grow stronger through exploration, reflection, and practice.

Is there a particular aspect of belief or faith that you would like to explore further? I'm here to help!
How Are We Suppose To Believe In Christ?
Believing in Christ, or coming to faith in Him, involves a few significant steps and can be a transformative journey. Here's how many Christians approach this process:

1. Hearing the Gospel:
   • Understand the message of Christ's life, death, and resurrection. Read the Bible, particularly the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), which recount Jesus' life and teachings.
2. Seeking Understanding:
   • Ask questions and seek answers from trusted sources, whether it's pastors, mentors, or theological texts. Engage in discussions and study to deepen your understanding.
3. Prayer:
   • Spend time in prayer, asking God to reveal Himself to you and guide you in your faith journey. Express your doubts, fears, and desires for faith openly.
4. Repentance:
   • Acknowledge and turn away from past wrongdoings and sins. Repentance is a key aspect of Christian faith, signifying a sincere change of heart and direction.
5. Faith and Trust:
   • Place your trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Believe in His sacrifice for your sins and His resurrection, which promises eternal life.
6. Baptism:
   • Many Christian traditions practice baptism as a public declaration of faith. It symbolizes dying to the old self and rising to a new life in Christ.
7. Living Out Faith:
   • Follow Christ's teachings in your daily life. Love others, serve, forgive, and live a life that reflects your faith.
8. Community:
   • Join a community of believers for support, fellowship, and growth. Participate in communal worship, study, and service.
9. Continuous Growth:
   • Faith is an ongoing journey. Continue to study, pray, and seek God's presence in your life. Be open to growth and transformation.

Remember, everyone's faith journey is unique. It's okay to have questions and to seek understanding at your own pace. If you have specific questions or need guidance on any part of this journey, feel free to ask!


John 17:1-5 What About Its Context?
Sure! Let's explore the context of John 17:1-5. This passage is part of what is known as Jesus' High Priestly Prayer, which takes place during the Last Supper, just before Jesus' arrest and crucifixion. Here are the verses:

John 17:1-5:

1. After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you.
2. For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him.
3. Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.
4. I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.
5. And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began.

Context and Significance:

1. Setting:
   • This prayer occurs during the Last Supper, a significant event where Jesus shares a final meal with his disciples and imparts crucial teachings. The mood is somber as Jesus is aware of his impending suffering and death.
2. Jesus' Relationship with the Father:
   • Jesus addresses God as "Father," emphasizing their unique and intimate relationship. The prayer highlights the unity between the Father and the Son.
3. The Hour Has Come:
   • Jesus refers to "the hour," which signifies the appointed time for his crucifixion and the fulfillment of his mission on earth. This phrase acknowledges that Jesus' death is not a random event but a divine plan.
4. Glorification:
   • Jesus prays for the Father to glorify him so that he can glorify the Father in return. This mutual glorification is rooted in Jesus completing his mission, which includes his death, resurrection, and ascension.
5. Eternal Life:
   • Jesus defines eternal life as knowing the only true God and Jesus Christ. This underscores the importance of a relationship with God through Christ as the essence of eternal life.
6. Completion of the Mission:
   • Jesus mentions that he has completed the work given to him by the Father. This work involves teaching, healing, and ultimately offering himself as a sacrifice for humanity's sins.
7. Pre-Existence and Glory:
   • Jesus asks to be glorified with the same glory he had with the Father before the world began. This statement reflects the belief in Jesus' pre-existence and divine nature, affirming his eternal relationship with the Father.

This prayer encapsulates Jesus' dedication to his mission, his deep connection with the Father, and his desire for believers to experience eternal life through a relationship with God. It's a profound and moving part of the Gospel of John, offering insight into Jesus' thoughts and priorities at a pivotal moment in his ministry.

John 17:6-26

John 17 KJV

--
Love always, Walter and Debbie

My Faith and Belief Site (tripod.com)

 

[Outcast]

I learned early on in seminary that exegesis of scripture requires honesty. However, translators were to be honest as well, but they seem to go with whatever view the person paying them want. "The Church" at the time of the 3rd and 4th centuries wanted scripture to say things it did not say.

However, today they do, and people are easily fooled because it seems that everyone else believes the way they do; so it must be correct.

Take, for example, what your reference to John 1-4 actually says:

The word logos does not refer to a person. It means a "saying." It says that Yahweh "spoke" the creation into existence.

Trinitarians changed the verse to mean a person to prove their point, but that is not what the first actually said. So, your explanation of your beliefs are starting out with a false premise.

Then, go on to Colossians, and we see:


This verse says only that Yeshua was an "image" of God - not that He was God.



The word used here "pro" does not indicate time. It indicates status. He is "before all things, not older than all things.


Yeshua is the firstborn in His resurrection from the dead. This indicates a time -which is not before the creation of our current Earth.

So, even though I know it is to joust at windmills to respond to this post, I simply desire that those who read it have some incentive to be skeptical. They should really be skeptical that you recommend that they simply pick a man they trust and spend their time with "likeminded" people. That is what is wrong with churches today. They pick a man and do not associate with those who desire truth more than a socially friendly environment.

Well, I am here for truth and not the opinion of any man. Except for Hermaneutics, my whole degree in scriptural studies was wasted when it came to reading commentaries rather than scripture.

 

[Walter And Debbie]

I learned early on in seminary that exegesis of scripture requires honesty. However, translators were to be honest as well, but they seem to go with whatever view the person paying them want. "The Church" at the time of the 3rd and 4th centuries wanted scripture to say things it did not say.

However, today they do, and people are easily fooled because it seems that everyone else believes the way they do; so it must be correct.

Take, for example, what your reference to John 1-4 actually says:
View attachment 1268
The word logos does not refer to a person. It means a "saying." It says that Yahweh "spoke" the creation into existence.

Trinitarians changed the verse to mean a person to prove their point, but that is not what the first actually said. So, your explanation of your beliefs are starting out with a false premise.

Then, go on to Colossians, and we see:

View attachment 1269
This verse says only that Yeshua was an "image" of God - not that He was God.


View attachment 1270
The word used here "pro" does not indicate time. It indicates status. He is "before all things, not older than all things.

View attachment 1271
Yeshua is the firstborn in His resurrection from the dead. This indicates a time -which is not before the creation of our current Earth.

So, even though I know it is to joust at windmills to respond to this post, I simply desire that those who read it have some incentive to be skeptical. They should really be skeptical that you recommend that they simply pick a man they trust and spend their time with "likeminded" people. That is what is wrong with churches today. They pick a man and do not associate with those who desire truth more than a socially friendly environment.

Well, I am here for truth and not the opinion of any man. Except for Hermaneutics, my whole degree in scriptural studies was wasted when it came to reading commentaries rather than scripture.

The Love Of The Truth

Love, Walter And Debbie

 

[Outcast]

If we allow a man to determine our "truth," we will be as lost as that man. The only truth with a good outcome is Yahweh's truth. We'll never know it as long as we trust in man.

 

[Outcast]

I am guessing that many are so enamored to reading commentaries and blogs to get truth that the whole concept of asking God for confirmation of truth is foreign and unacceptable. We don't have the patience for it, right?

It is like my searching the weather report each morning, and if I don't like the report I get at one website, I go to a different one to get a better report. I've come to realize that many "Christians" get their truth the same way.

When God confirmed a truth for me, it was inescapable. I had no option to believe anything else. There are a few doctrines that we confirmed for me, and it was amazing for me that He gave me those answers. He HEARD my request! If anyone has not done the scripture search for themselves and prayed for truth; it would be wise to not accept your own opinion as fact. That is how the church that Yeshua started has been corrupted.