By Bible Names of God

      "As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world." John 17:18

      From the glory which He had with the Father before the world was, He was sent into this world of sin and shame to redeem sinful men. He was God's Apostle- God's "Sent One." His prayer now to the Father is that they might be sanctified (set apart) as He was set apart for the work of redemption. He prays that His disciples might also be set apart for the great work of saving men. Christ has not changed. This prayer was for us, also, as He syas in v.20: "neigher pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word." His holy desire is that we might be in the world with the same message that He Himself had.

      Lord Jesus, help us to recognize today thy call and our calling to save souls. Amen.