John 17:24 Father, I will that they also, whom you have given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which you have given me… I. OF WHAT STATE OF MIND THIS IS THE EXPRESSION ON THE PART OF CHRIST. 1. It expresses the depth and intensity of His love to the Church He has redeemed. Montaigne says, "We hate those we injure" — certainly we love those whom we have blessed. Christ having redeemed us in this life is intent on blessing us in the next. 2. It turns on the principle that sympathy is most precious to the noblest natures. Christ could not think of the splendours of His throne without connecting them with His people. 3. It contains the idea of personal interest in them as precious property by special donation from the Father. What more valued than a father's gift, especially when given as an expression of love and for a sublime purpose. II. WHAT VIEWS IT FURNISHES OF THE FUTURE LIFE. 1. The happiness of heaven will be realized in the immediate presence and unveiled glory of Christ. The king makes the court, not the court the king. 2. Whatever displays are made in that life of the majesty of the Godhead, will be made in the Person of Christ. To all eternity He will be "Emanuel — God with us." How transporting it will be to find His glory that of "the Lamb that was slain!" III. WHAT REFLECTIONS THE SUBJECT SHOULD AWAKEN. 1. Earnest desire to be one with Christ. 2. Adoring gratitude that He has invested us with this hope which cannot die. 3. A deep concern for the religious welfare of others. (S. T. Day.) Parallel Verses KJV: Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. |
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