One Needful Thing — Acts 8:1-6

One Needful Thing — Acts 8:1-6

The Big Takeaway: When our world is deteriorating or declining, we tend to take ownership of the whole problem, or at least carry the anxiety that accompanies the problem. Thankfully, all the Lord asks of us is to be faithful to our calling in him, a calling for which he provides strength. And often, through that modest goal of faithfulness, he accomplishes great things.

One Joy — John 17:20-26

The Big Takeaway: Jesus gave us glory, even his own glory (v. 22). Jesus' glory was tied to that "hour," to his death and crucifixion, to his gift of eternal life (17:1 ff.). How does the gift of his glory define you? Your joy is tied to that glory and the conscious embrace of all that it represents. Your joy is tied to the oneness shared in our unity.

Christ's Sanctification, Our Sanctification — John 17:6-19

The Big Takeaway: Jesus' mission on earth was to consecrate himself (v. 9), meaning that he is preparing to die on the cross, so that we may be sanctified. Stated differently, our sanctification was Jesus' primary mission on earth.

The Glory of the Cross! — John 17:1-5

The Big Takeaway: Calvin stated that Jesus' prayer reveals the depths of the Savior's heart. This accurately describes John 17. By praying for his glorification (vs. 1-5), the sanctification of present believers (vs. 6-19), and the unity of future believers (vs. 20-26), Jesus' High Priestly Prayer reveals the heart of the Savior for his covenant people.

The Disciple's Joy — John 16:16-33

The Big Takeaway: The disciple's joy is directly related to both the method and the end that your Master designs. The promise of complete joy is yours! The journey is yours as well. Prize your Lord's wisdom, ways, and wishes!