How does John 17:20 encourage us to pray for future believers? The Verse at a Glance “ I am not asking on behalf of them alone, but also on behalf of those who will believe in Me through their message.” (John 17:20) What This Reveals About Jesus’ Heart • He prays beyond the present, seeing generations yet unborn. • He believes the gospel will spread through ordinary witnesses. • He treats future believers as already precious to the Father (cf. John 10:16). Why This Encourages Us to Pray for Future Believers • Jesus Himself models it—if He intercedes for “those who will believe,” we follow His lead (Hebrews 7:25). • It affirms that God has people still to be gathered (Acts 18:10); our prayers align with His saving plan. • It reminds us the Word we share is the God-ordained means for their faith (Romans 10:14-17). • It builds confidence: Christ’s prayer undergirds ours, guaranteeing fruit (Isaiah 55:11). Practical Ways to Pray in Light of John 17:20 1. Ask for prepared hearts in cities, neighborhoods, and nations you’ve never visited. 2. Intercede for children yet to be born into your family line, that they will “believe in Me.” 3. Pray for missionaries, pastors, and everyday believers whose message God will use (Ephesians 6:18-20). 4. Call on God to raise laborers for unreached peoples (Matthew 9:37-38). 5. Request unity among future converts before division ever starts (John 17:21-23). 6. Petition for maturity and perseverance in those who will believe (Colossians 1:9-12). Promises to Fuel Confidence While You Pray • “Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold; I must bring them also.” (John 10:16) • “The Lord… is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9) • “I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 2:10) Takeaway Because Jesus already prayed for believers still in the future, we can confidently join Him—asking the Father to save, unite, and keep countless men, women, and children who have yet to hear but will one day believe through the Word. |
    |