From John 17, we learn that the world is a battleground where the forces of Satan and those under God’s authority are at war. We must never underestimate Satan's power and cunning, as well as his bitter hatred against Christ and His followers. Jesus prayed for His disciples, including those of us who follow Him today, that God would protect them from Satan’s influence, set them apart, and make them pure and holy, uniting them through His truth.
“I have finished the Work.” John 17:4-6 The purpose of Jesus' life and ministry on earth was fulfilled through His disciples. He was glorified in them because they followed Him. Believers in Christ are united with Him by the Holy Spirit. His power becomes evident when there is unity among them, demonstrated by their love for each other and for God. Christians testify to God’s love, and their joy helps protect them from discouragement and defeat. God’s truth differences believers from the world and brings them closer to God. His word is a living, sanctifying instrument of truth for us. We believe in Him when we become convinced that the word of God is read, taught, and preached.
It is important that the Lord stated He had “finished the work” He was sent to do, even though His death occurred the next day and His resurrection three days later. These events were planned by God before the foundation of the world was even laid, so there was certainty that the work of redemption would be fully completed before it actually happened.
What a fellowship between the Eternal Son and the Father! It is eternal in nature because both are equal in being. In their conversations, care, and creation, they act as one, demonstrating consistent and perfect unity throughout all ages—oneness reflected in conformity. They had work to do together before the world was created, and their careful plans aimed to reveal God’s character. There is a design, an intricate foundation for the universe. Chosen names were given as the Eternal Persons prepared to show their love, mercy, grace, and love, all displayed in Christ’s sojourn below.
Then, there was nothing more to prepare — the moment had arrived, and the eternal Son rose from His high and mighty celestial throne. All those involved in God’s redemptive plan took their places; angels sent with startling messages travel through space to unsuspecting believers to share news of a miraculous birth. The Son began His work in a virgin’s womb – God was here on earth! Scripture after scripture and prophecy after prophecy were fulfilled in His birth, life, ministry, and teachings – unfolding before the waiting, watching ones.
God was in Christ, and the work the Father gave Him to do was as good as done for Jehovah’s faithful servant, who is none other than God the Son! The display of miraculous acts revealed God’s holy name. The words the faithful Son spoke are the same as God’s words! Opposition came from all sides, but He kept His own and still prays to keep those given by the Father, like helpless sheep, out of the clutches of the evil world. They don’t need to fear because even now, the Father and the Son are near, and the Promised One, the Spirit, also has come. He is truly here with His own, so His prayer is answered. Not only is His earthly work complete, but He also keeps those He loves through their earthly struggles—we are as good as at home!