In Wayne Boyd's sermon titled "Christ Glorified in His People," the main theological focus is on John 17, particularly emphasizing the high priestly prayer of Christ and the significance of His intercession for His people. Boyd argues that Christ's prayer, which includes petitions for the disciples and all believers throughout history, illustrates the depth of Christ's love and commitment to His elect, underscoring Reformed doctrines of unconditional election and the perseverance of the saints. Noteworthy Scripture references include John 17:9-10, which highlights the intimate relationship between the Father and the Son and the unity of purpose in their love for believers. Boyd elaborates on the implications of this relationship, arguing that believers are both kept by God and glorify Christ through their lives as transformed individuals. The practical significance lies in understanding the assurance believers have in their eternal security and the necessity of glorifying Christ for His redemptive work.
Key Quotes
“We've been kept by God forever, haven't we? We were chosen in Him before the foundation of the world.”
“Here Christ is going to lay down his life for his friends, for his people.”
“God's born-again, blood-washed people glorify Christ as trophies of his power, having been rescued from the power of sin.”
“My, oh my. So take note of these personal pronouns. He says, I pray for them.”
In John 17, Christ intercedes for His people, pleading with the Father on their behalf.
John 17 captures the essence of Christ's high priestly prayer, where He prays for Himself, His disciples, and all believers throughout the ages. It's a profound moment that demonstrates His love and intercession for His people. In verses 6 to 12, He acknowledges that those given to Him by the Father have kept His word, illustrating the intimate relationship between the Father, the Son, and the elect. Christ's prayer illustrates not only His role as our Mediator but also the eternal love He holds for His chosen ones.
John 17:1-12
The Bible affirms God's election in various passages, assuring that those chosen will be redeemed.
God's election is a central theme in Scripture, particularly evident in John 6:37-39, where Jesus declares that all whom the Father gives Him will come to Him and that He will lose none. This truth is reinforced throughout the New Testament, where election is tied to God's mercy and sovereignty. Believers are reminded in 2 Thessalonians 2:13 that God chose them for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth. This demonstrates that God's choice is not based on foreseen faith or merit, but solely on His divine purpose and grace.
John 6:37-39, 2 Thessalonians 2:13
Understanding Christ's glory leads to deeper worship and acknowledgment of His grace in salvation.
Understanding Christ's glory is crucial for believers as it affects our worship and daily living. In John 17:10, Jesus states, 'I am glorified in them,' indicating that the transformation of believers into His likeness brings glory to Christ. This understanding prompts Christians to live in a way that reflects His character, thereby bringing glory to God. Furthermore, recognizing His glory fosters a greater appreciation for the salvation obtained through His sacrifice, which is central to the gospel message and the believer’s identity in Christ.
John 17:10, Revelation 5:9-13
Being kept by God refers to His unwavering protection and preservation of the elect in Christ.
The concept of being kept by God is profoundly reassuring for believers. In John 17:12, Jesus mentions that He has kept those whom the Father gave Him, signifying that true security comes from God's active preservation. This assurance is echoed throughout Scripture, where passages such as 1 Peter 1:5 affirm that believers are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. The implication is that our salvation is secure, rooted in God's faithfulness and not our fluctuating abilities. Thus, this doctrine offers comfort and strength amid trials, knowing that God sustains us.
John 17:12, 1 Peter 1:5
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