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John 17:15
Verse
Context
Prayer for the Disciples
14I have given them Your word and the world has hated them; for they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15I am not asking that You take them out of the world, but that You keep them from the evil one.16They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
That thou shouldest take them out of the world - They must not yet leave the land of Judea: they had not as yet borne their testimony there, concerning Christ crucified and risen again from the dead. To take them away before this work was finished would not answer the gracious design of God. - 1. Christ does not desire that his faithful apostles should soon die, and be taken to God. No: but that they may live long, labor long, and bring forth much fruit. 2. He does not intimate that they should seclude themselves from the world by going to the desert, or to the cloisters; but that they should continue in and among the world, that they may have the opportunity of recommending the salvation of God. 3. Christ only prays that while they are in the world, employed in the work of the ministry, they may be preserved from the influence, του πονηρου, of the evil one, the devil, who had lately entered into Judas, Joh 13:27, and who would endeavor to enter into them, ruin their souls, and destroy their work. A devil without can do no harm; but a devil within ruins all.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world--for that, though it would secure their own safety, would leave the world unblessed by their testimony. but . . . keep them from the evil--all evil in and of the world.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I pray not that thou shouldest take theft of the world,.... Either in an unusual manner, by a translation, as Enoch and Elijah were; or by death in its common form, before their time, and purely to be rid of afflictions: this he prayed not for; for he had much work for them to do, by preaching the Gospel, for the conversion of sinners and comfort of saints; and it was for his interest they should live longer; and it would make most for his glory, and be best for his chosen people and churches: but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil; either of sin, which is an evil and bitter thing, being committed against a good God, and a righteous law, and brings ruin and destruction upon men; from this the apostles were kept, and all the saints are; not from indwelling sin, nor from the commission of sin, but from the dominion of it, and from falling into it and by it, so as to perish eternally: or from the evil of the world; not from afflictions in it; nor from the reproach and persecution of it; but from its wickedness and lusts, and from the evil men of it: or from Satan the evil one, who is eminently, originally, and immutably so; not from being tempted by him, but from sinking under his temptations, and from being devoured by him. Christ's praying for this, after this manner, shows that evil is very abhorrent, pernicious and powerful; the danger saints are in by it; their incapacity to keep themselves from it; and that the Lord alone is the keeper of his people; but does not suggest that Christ has dropped the charge of them, or is unequal to it; but by so doing he expresses his great love to them, how dear they are to him, and what care he takes of them, and what concern he has for them.
John 17:15
Prayer for the Disciples
14I have given them Your word and the world has hated them; for they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15I am not asking that You take them out of the world, but that You keep them from the evil one.16They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Be Sure Your Sin Will Find You Out!
By Keith Daniel3.5K1:16:33PSA 119:9PSA 119:11ISA 57:1JHN 17:15ROM 7:19ROM 8:6GAL 5:16JAS 4:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance, seeking God's forgiveness, and walking in the Spirit to overcome sin and live a life pleasing to God. It highlights the power of God's Word to cleanse, renew, and guide individuals away from evil and towards righteousness. The message encourages humility, self-control, and a deep commitment to studying and applying the teachings of the Bible to avoid spiritual shipwreck and experience God's grace and restoration.
He Is Love
By George Warnock2.4K50:12Love Of GodPSA 133:1MAT 6:33MAT 22:37JHN 17:151CO 3:12PHP 1:91TI 4:13In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man named Dunmighty who was told by God to set his house in order because all that he produced was wood, hay, and stubble. The speaker then references Paul's letter to the Philippians, where he prays for their love to abound more and more. The speaker recounts a conversation with a man who suggested that love is all that is needed and that doctrine and other things should be forgotten. The speaker introduces George, who has the gift of exhortation, and emphasizes the importance of both reading and exhortation in Timothy's letter from Paul. The speaker also highlights the need for unity among believers and the importance of seeking God's glory in reaching the world. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the highest form of relationship with God is when one lays down everything for His sake, and that only what proceeds from His Spirit and anointing is important in the sight of God. The speaker warns against being deceived by a mighty ministry or gifts, as all works will be judged by God on the day of judgment.
Why Revival Tarries - Part 2
By Henry Blackaby2.1K09:21EZK 34:16JHN 10:27JHN 17:13JHN 17:15JHN 17:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of shepherding God's people with a shepherd's heart, ensuring that none are lost but all are guided and kept in the full character and nature of God. It highlights the need for pastors to immerse believers in the relationship with God, keeping them from wandering and ensuring they are filled with joy. The message stresses the significance of guiding God's people to live in the world but not be of the world, being sanctified by the truth of God's Word.
02 New Wine in New Wineskins Life and Fellowship
By Zac Poonen1.2K1:00:36PSA 37:25DAN 4:29MAT 22:37LUK 5:15JHN 7:40JHN 17:3JHN 17:15ROM 5:9PHP 4:41JN 1:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life modeled after Jesus, focusing on the divine life and fellowship that comes from being saved by His life. It highlights the need to seek the life of Jesus, characterized by holiness, humility, and love, rather than being swayed by worldly achievements or doctrines. The speaker urges listeners to pursue a deep longing for the life of Jesus, leading to true fellowship and unity in the body of Christ.
The Appearing of Resurrection and the Giving of Power
By Newman Sze8201:22:11MAT 28:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 24:44JHN 20:19JHN 21:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
In the Shadow of the Cross - Jesus Prays for His First Followers
By J. Glyn Owen44051:39PrayerMAT 6:33JHN 8:44JHN 17:15EPH 6:12JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 5:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of hiding in God as a way to protect oneself from the devil. He references Martin Luther's hymn "A Mighty Fortress is Our God" to illustrate this concept. The preacher also highlights the power of Christ in overcoming the world and encourages listeners to put their trust in Him. The sermon is based on John chapter 17, where Jesus prays for himself and for the future church.
Session 12: John 17
By Joseph Carroll2741:41Christian LifeSacrificeDiscipleshipMAT 6:13JHN 12:24JHN 14:13JHN 15:16JHN 17:15JHN 17:17ROM 12:12CO 4:10EPH 5:21JN 3:16Joseph Carroll emphasizes the significance of accepting Jesus' teachings and the responsibility that comes with spiritual enlightenment. He highlights the importance of daily prayer for protection from the evil one and the necessity of sanctification through truth. Carroll explains that true discipleship involves self-sacrifice and the manifestation of Christ's love in our lives, which leads to genuine evangelism. He stresses that only through dying to ourselves can we bear fruit for others, and that our service should be directed solely towards Jesus Christ. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a life of intercession and love, reflecting the character of Christ to draw others to Him.
End Times Questions & Answers, Part 2
By Mike Bickle2613:25End TimesProtection from EvilPSA 91:1JHN 17:15REV 3:10Mike Bickle addresses questions about Revelation 3:10, emphasizing its promise to the Church of Philadelphia and its implications for believers today. He argues that the verse speaks to being kept from the evil one rather than a pre-tribulation rapture, drawing parallels with John 17:15 where Jesus prays for protection from evil. Bickle explains that the promise was specific to the faithful in Philadelphia and not a blanket statement for all believers, thus challenging common interpretations of the rapture. He also discusses the nature of the beast in Revelation, clarifying that the beast refers to the antichrist, distinct from the devil. The sermon encourages a deeper understanding of scripture and the victorious role of the church in the end times.
Azusa Street's Confession of Faith
By William Seymour1EXO 15:26PRO 28:13ISA 55:7EZK 33:15MAT 9:13MRK 1:14MRK 16:16LUK 15:21LUK 19:8JHN 3:8JHN 17:15ACT 3:19ACT 10:42ROM 3:252CO 7:91TH 4:3HEB 12:14JAS 5:14William Seymour preaches on The Confession of Faith Statement of the Apostolic Faith Mission at 312 Azusa Street, Los Angeles, California, emphasizing the Apostolic Faith Movement's stand for the restoration of the old-time religion and Christian unity. The sermon covers teachings on repentance, godly sorrow for sin, confession of sins, forsaking sinful ways, restitution, faith in Jesus Christ, justification, sanctification as the second work of grace, and the baptism with the Holy Ghost as a gift of power upon the sanctified life.
They Were Not Carried to Heaven on Beds of Ease!
By C.H. Spurgeon0Living in a Godless WorldPerseverance in FaithPSA 120:5MAT 5:16JHN 17:15ROM 12:211CO 16:13EPH 6:10PHP 2:152TI 2:3HEB 12:1JAS 1:12C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity of living a godly life amidst an ungodly world, urging Christians not to lament their circumstances but to glorify God through their struggles. He reminds believers that they are called to be examples of holiness and consistency, as their conduct is under scrutiny by others. Spurgeon encourages Christians to be active in their faith, asserting that the more challenging the environment, the greater the opportunity to serve and witness for Christ. He draws parallels between the trials faced by saints throughout history and the current struggles believers endure, reinforcing that hardship is part of the Christian journey. Ultimately, he calls for courage and strength, reminding believers that they will be rewarded for their perseverance.
His Image
By K.P. Yohannan0Christian MaturityChrist LikenessMAT 11:28JHN 17:15ROM 8:28HEB 5:8K.P. Yohannan emphasizes that Christian maturity and Christ-likeness are forged through life's difficulties rather than in comfort. He highlights Jesus' prayer for His disciples, noting that we are left in the world to learn from trials and reflect His character. Drawing on biblical figures and modern saints, he illustrates how enduring hardships shapes us into the image of Christ. Yohannan reassures that this transformation is a gradual process, requiring daily commitment to reflect Jesus in every situation. Ultimately, he encourages believers to engage with Scripture and rely on the Holy Spirit to guide them in their journey of becoming more like Christ.
Encouragement in Tribulation
By Zac Poonen0Perseverance in FaithOvercoming TribulationJER 12:5MAT 24:13MRK 10:30JHN 16:33JHN 17:15ACT 14:22REV 1:9REV 2:10REV 14:4Zac Poonen emphasizes that Jesus never promised an escape from tribulation but rather the strength to overcome it, as stated in John 16:33. He highlights that God is more concerned with our character development through trials than our comfort, and that true discipleship often involves enduring hardships. Poonen references historical examples of early Christians who faced severe tribulations without divine rescue, illustrating that faithfulness in suffering leads to spiritual strength and eventual reward. He encourages believers to embrace their current trials as preparation for greater challenges ahead, reinforcing the message that perseverance is essential in the Christian faith.
The Limitations of the Tempter
By Watchman Nee0God's ProtectionTemptationJOB 1:12MAT 6:9LUK 22:31JHN 17:15ROM 6:111CO 10:132CO 12:72TH 3:31JN 5:18REV 12:7Watchman Nee emphasizes that temptations are permitted by God and serve a purpose in the believer's life, helping to cultivate humility and reliance on God's strength. He explains that while temptations are common to all, God ensures they do not exceed our ability to endure, providing a way out for every challenge. Nee encourages believers to trust in God's protection and the intercession of Christ, reminding them that temptation itself is not sin, but yielding to it is. He concludes with the assurance of Satan's ultimate defeat, urging believers to stand firm in their faith and fight against spiritual adversities.
I Pray Not That Thou Shouldst Take Them Out of the World
By C.H. Spurgeon0Endurance in FaithPurpose in LifeJHN 17:15PHP 1:23C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that while believers long for the day they will be with Jesus, He does not pray for their immediate removal from the world. Instead, Christ desires His followers to remain on earth to fulfill their purpose and to be a blessing to others. Spurgeon warns against the selfish desire to escape troubles, urging Christians to focus on glorifying God through their lives, even amidst struggles. He reminds us that our time on earth is valuable and that we should trust in God's timing for our ultimate homecoming. The sermon encourages believers to embrace their earthly journey while relying on God's strength to endure.
Questions/answers on Theology
By James Blaine Chapman0JHN 1:29JHN 17:152TI 3:16HEB 9:26HEB 12:14James Blaine Chapman addresses the concept of fundamentalism, criticizing the factional meaning given to the term 'fundamental' by certain groups who injected their own pet notions into the list of accepted Christian doctrines. He emphasizes that holiness is indeed a fundamental doctrine of the Bible and the Church, as without holiness, no one shall see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14). Chapman also delves into the distinction between verbal and plenary inspiration of the Scriptures, highlighting the method and extent of inspiration by the Holy Spirit.
The Importance of Perseverance
By Zac Poonen0JER 12:5MAT 24:13MRK 10:30JHN 16:33JHN 17:15ACT 14:222CO 1:4REV 2:10REV 14:4Zac Poonen preaches on the importance of being prepared to partake in the tribulations that come with following Jesus, just as John experienced tribulation on the island of Patmos for his faithfulness to God's word. The doctrine of a pre-tribulation rapture can lull Christians into false comfort, but Jesus never promised an escape from tribulation, instead focusing on making us overcomers. God's desire is for us to be saved from evil, not necessarily from tribulation, as seen in the examples of early Christians who glorified God through their suffering.
Sanctified on the Cross
By William Seymour0MAT 5:8JHN 17:15ROM 6:61TH 3:131TH 4:31TH 5:232TI 2:21HEB 2:11William Seymour preaches about the ongoing prayer of Jesus for believers to be sanctified and kept from evil, becoming one with Him through sanctification. It is God's will for every soul to be saved from sin, both actual and original, requiring a real death to the old man. Sanctification makes believers holy, pure, and vessels fit for the Master's use, leading them out of sin into the light of God's Son.
The Apostolic Faith: A Doctrinal Overview
By William Seymour0EZK 33:15MAT 9:13MRK 1:14LUK 15:21LUK 18:13LUK 19:18JHN 3:3JHN 17:15JHN 17:20ACT 2:1ACT 3:19ACT 10:42ACT 10:45ACT 17:30ACT 19:6ROM 3:25ROM 4:251CO 4:212CO 1:152CO 5:172CO 7:9HEB 13:12William Seymour preaches about the Apostolic Faith Mission's commitment to restoring the old-time religion of camp meetings, revivals, missions, and Christian unity based on the faith delivered to the saints. He emphasizes the importance of repentance, godly sorrow for sins, confession, restitution, and faith in Jesus Christ as foundational steps in the believer's journey. Seymour teaches on the first work of grace, justification, and the second work of grace, sanctification, highlighting the cleansing and empowering work of the Holy Spirit. He stresses the significance of the baptism in the Holy Ghost and fire for experiencing God's love, power, and truth, with speaking in tongues as a sign. Seymour also addresses the importance of marriage, water baptism, feet washing, and the Lord's Supper as essential ordinances in the Apostolic Faith Mission.
How Lives Are Built
By K.P. Yohannan0Christian MaturityImitating ChristMAT 11:28LUK 6:28JHN 17:15ROM 8:28HEB 5:8K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the importance of responding to life's challenges by reflecting the character of Jesus. He shares a story of a leader who faced betrayal from two disciples, encouraging him to bless those who left rather than retaliate. Through trials, believers can grow in maturity and Christlikeness, as exemplified by Jesus and biblical figures like Abraham and Paul. Yohannan reminds us that true transformation takes time and is a daily process, urging us to seek Jesus in Scripture to learn how to imitate Him in our lives. Ultimately, he reassures that all things work together for good for those who love God, as we are conformed to the image of His Son.
Yield to the Spirit of God to Cast Out the Spirit of This World.
By Andrew Murray0Influence through DevotionSpiritual SeparationJHN 17:152CO 4:4Andrew Murray emphasizes the necessity of yielding to the Spirit of God to overcome the deceptive spirit of the world. He explains that true influence over others comes from a life that is spiritually separated from worldly desires, rather than from mere physical withdrawal. The blinding influence of the world can even affect believers, preventing them from fully grasping God's teachings. By fully devoting ourselves to Christ and embracing a heavenly life, we gain the strength to selflessly serve others and effectively impact their lives.
Sermon: The Prayer of Jabez
By Thomas Bradbury01CH 4:9ISA 57:1JHN 10:28JHN 17:15EPH 1:3Thomas Bradbury preaches on the story of Jabez, emphasizing the importance of seeking God's blessings, acknowledging His sovereignty, power, providence, protection, and presence in our lives. He highlights the need to pray for God's hand to be with us, guiding and blessing us, while also asking for protection from evil influences that may grieve us. Bradbury encourages believers to trust in God's faithfulness to grant their requests, just as He did for Jabez.
Guidelines for the Godly Man
By Eli Brayley0GEN 4:6GEN 5:3LEV 19:28PSA 1:1PSA 5:3PSA 55:17PSA 103:2PRO 8:8PRO 10:11PRO 10:19PRO 15:3ISA 29:23MAT 5:16MAT 6:1MAT 12:37MAT 18:20MAT 23:25MRK 2:16LUK 3:11LUK 6:45LUK 12:57JHN 3:30JHN 14:5JHN 17:4JHN 17:15ACT 2:441CO 8:91CO 10:311CO 12:41CO 15:332CO 5:20GAL 2:20PHP 1:27PHP 3:81TI 4:82TI 2:21JAS 3:111PE 3:31PE 3:161JN 3:14Eli Brayley preaches on the calling of the man of God to live a life of full consecration, obedience, and service unto the Kingdom of God. The purpose of the man of God is to conform to the image of the Father, just as Jesus Christ did on earth, bringing glory to God in all things. This calling requires a solitary practice of devotion through regular study of the Word and prayer, done privately for God's eyes only. In the public sphere, the man of God must represent God on earth by displaying the fruit of the Spirit, maintaining an above-reproach lifestyle, and presenting Christ through every aspect of his being.
In Not Of
By Mary Wilder Tileston0JHN 17:15ROM 12:22CO 6:17JAS 4:41JN 2:15Mary Wilder Tileston, through the words of James Montgomery, emphasizes the importance of Jesus interceding for believers in times of trial to prevent them from denying Him. She delves into the concept of Christians being in the world but not of it, called to live under Christ's rule amidst a society that rejects Him, and to boldly obey righteousness in the face of prevailing desires. Tileston stresses the significance of Christians living as soldiers and servants of Christ, bearing witness to Him through their actions and words by obediently following His will, thus glorifying God.
Edition 10 - Everywhere Preaching the Word
By William Seymour0ISA 55:7MAT 3:11MAT 28:19JHN 15:3JHN 17:15ACT 2:3ROM 6:3ROM 7:2HEB 13:4William Seymour preaches about the powerful experiences of seeking the fullness of God through the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. He shares personal encounters of deep prayer, cleansing, and seeking God earnestly. Through a series of spiritual encounters, including visions of the cross, the dove, and the lily, Seymour experiences the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in a profound way. He describes manifestations of speaking in tongues and the overwhelming sense of God's glory and anointing upon him.
Christ's Prayer for His People
By C.H. Spurgeon0IntercessionPurpose in TrialsJHN 17:15ROM 8:34PHP 1:21C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the significance of Christ's prayer for His people, highlighting that every believer has a personal stake in this intercession. He explains that Jesus does not pray for believers to be taken out of the world, either through solitude or death, but rather to be kept from evil, as their presence serves a greater purpose for their own growth, the benefit of others, and the glory of God. Spurgeon encourages believers to embrace their earthly struggles as opportunities for spiritual growth and to fulfill their mission of bringing others to Christ. He warns against the desire to escape life's challenges, reminding that true faith is demonstrated in how one lives, not merely in how one dies.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
That thou shouldest take them out of the world - They must not yet leave the land of Judea: they had not as yet borne their testimony there, concerning Christ crucified and risen again from the dead. To take them away before this work was finished would not answer the gracious design of God. - 1. Christ does not desire that his faithful apostles should soon die, and be taken to God. No: but that they may live long, labor long, and bring forth much fruit. 2. He does not intimate that they should seclude themselves from the world by going to the desert, or to the cloisters; but that they should continue in and among the world, that they may have the opportunity of recommending the salvation of God. 3. Christ only prays that while they are in the world, employed in the work of the ministry, they may be preserved from the influence, του πονηρου, of the evil one, the devil, who had lately entered into Judas, Joh 13:27, and who would endeavor to enter into them, ruin their souls, and destroy their work. A devil without can do no harm; but a devil within ruins all.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world--for that, though it would secure their own safety, would leave the world unblessed by their testimony. but . . . keep them from the evil--all evil in and of the world.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I pray not that thou shouldest take theft of the world,.... Either in an unusual manner, by a translation, as Enoch and Elijah were; or by death in its common form, before their time, and purely to be rid of afflictions: this he prayed not for; for he had much work for them to do, by preaching the Gospel, for the conversion of sinners and comfort of saints; and it was for his interest they should live longer; and it would make most for his glory, and be best for his chosen people and churches: but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil; either of sin, which is an evil and bitter thing, being committed against a good God, and a righteous law, and brings ruin and destruction upon men; from this the apostles were kept, and all the saints are; not from indwelling sin, nor from the commission of sin, but from the dominion of it, and from falling into it and by it, so as to perish eternally: or from the evil of the world; not from afflictions in it; nor from the reproach and persecution of it; but from its wickedness and lusts, and from the evil men of it: or from Satan the evil one, who is eminently, originally, and immutably so; not from being tempted by him, but from sinking under his temptations, and from being devoured by him. Christ's praying for this, after this manner, shows that evil is very abhorrent, pernicious and powerful; the danger saints are in by it; their incapacity to keep themselves from it; and that the Lord alone is the keeper of his people; but does not suggest that Christ has dropped the charge of them, or is unequal to it; but by so doing he expresses his great love to them, how dear they are to him, and what care he takes of them, and what concern he has for them.