How does John 17:20 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? John 17:20 — Jesus Prays for Future Believers “I am not asking on behalf of them alone, but also on behalf of those who will believe in Me through their message,” Matthew 28:19-20 — Jesus Commissions Present Disciples “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” How the Prayer and the Commission Interlock • Same Audience Flow – John 17:20 looks ahead to “those who will believe.” – Matthew 28:19-20 shows how they will believe: existing disciples must “go.” • Same Instrument: the Apostles’ “Message” – Jesus prays for people who will believe “through their message.” – The Great Commission gives that message shape: gospel proclamation, baptism, teaching. – Acts 2:36-41 illustrates the link—Peter obeys the Commission, and 3,000 answer Jesus’ prayer. • Same Goal: Worldwide Faith Community – John 17 expands: future believers are drawn into the oneness of Father, Son, and disciples (17:21-23). – The Commission targets “all nations,” forming one body regardless of background (Galatians 3:28). • Same Divine Enablement – John 17:22-23 promises shared glory and indwelling love. – Matthew 28:20 promises Christ’s continual presence. Both ensure success not by human strength but divine backing (Acts 1:8). Why the Connection Matters for Us • Confidence: Every step in disciple-making answers Jesus’ own prayer—He wants this more than we do. • Clarity: The method is non-negotiable—proclaim, baptize, teach. Anything less drops a link in the chain. • Compassion: Remember whom Jesus had in mind—people still unreached, family members yet unbelieving. • Unity: Our shared mission flows from the unity Jesus prayed for; division undercuts credibility (John 17:23). • Perseverance: His presence “to the very end of the age” guarantees we are never alone in the task (2 Corinthians 5:20). |
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