Two Prayers for Sanctification: Christ and Paul

Texts: John 17:15-19, 1 Thes. 5:23-24

Christ

In John 17:15-19, Christ is NOT praying for the body of Christ to come, but for Israel, namely the "little flock" (Luke 12:32) and their converts (John 17:20). In keeping with the principle of not anticipating revelation, we must not read the body of Christ back into this passage, since that body was not even in view at the time. The entire context is the Lord praying for his disciples and those that would believe on him "through their word," i.e. the preaching of the gospel of the kingdom in the Acts period. I think that this prayer was answered, since the little flock is unified in Acts 1-7 and even after the stoning of Stephen, but as the ministry of Paul begins to supersede that of the twelve, the true "Lord's Prayer" of John 17 goes into abeyance until the Lord resumes his dealings with Israel after the translation of the church. Ever wonder why Michael is present at our rapture? Perhaps to show that the Lord is resuming his dealings with Israel, whom Michael represents (Dan. 10:21, 12:1)!

Paul   

Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians closes with some "rapid-fire" instructions and wishes (vv. 16-28), including a remarkable prayer and attached promise for them in 5:24. The "whole" sanctification he desires for them in 5:23a is explained in 5:23b as pertaining to their spirit, soul, and body, which constitutes the whole being of man, in reflection of the Trinity. Each of these parts of our being need sanctification throughout our lives in Christ (cf. 2 Cor. 7:1, 1 Thes. 4:3-4). God promises to perform this for us if we are willing for it to take place. If we pray this prayer for ourselves and others, which we should, we are assured that we're praying according to God's will (Rom. 8:27) and that God will act upon this prayer. The outcome, of course, depends on the willingness of those God moves upon to comply. (Note: The prayers that God inspired Paul to record relative to the body of Christ are, I believe, the same prayers that the Lord Jesus is making for us above...right now; see Rom. 8:32). 

In conclusion, the Lord is interested in the sanctification of both Israel and the body of Christ. Both groups need it, and it's something worth praying about, since it's so close to the Lord's heart in both dispensations. 

May each of us be found, at the judgment seat of Christ, without "spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing" (Eph. 5:27). 

Yours in his dear Son,

David Jared 

Col. 1:13