Daily Bible Reading—January 2025, God’s Strengthening Word: Celebrating Unity in Christ JesusMuestra

Introduction

John 17:1–26: Today’s reading is often referred to as Jesus’s “High Priestly Prayer,” recorded only in John’s Gospel. After Jesus’s final discourse with his disciples (John 14—16) and just before his betrayal and arrest (John 18), he addresses God in prayer. Jesus acknowledges that he has completed the work God sent him to do, and he prays for his disciples and all future believers.

Today’s Key Verse: John 17:9

[Jesus said:] “I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those you gave me, for they belong to you.”

Reflect

Jesus prays that all who believe will be united by their faith in him, so this prayer is also a call to Christian unity. What does Jesus ask of God (verses 1, 5, 11, 15, 17, 20–21, 24)? What does knowing that Jesus prayed for you mean to you?

Pray

Dear Jesus, you came to break down walls that divide us. Unite us in heart and mind by the truth of your word, that we may follow you and give glory to God. In faith I pray in your holy name, Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Colossians 1:1–14: Paul thanks God for the faith of the believers in Colossae.