Scriptural Reference: John 17:20-26

Context and Background:
The passage known as "Jesus Prays for All Believers" is part of the High Priestly Prayer found in John 17. This prayer is delivered by Jesus shortly before His arrest and crucifixion. It is a profound moment where Jesus intercedes not only for His immediate disciples but also for all future believers who will come to faith through their message. This prayer is a testament to Jesus' role as an intercessor and His deep love and concern for His followers.

Content of the Prayer:
In John 17:20-26, Jesus expands His prayer beyond the disciples present with Him, saying, "I am not asking on behalf of them alone, but also on behalf of those who will believe in Me through their message" (John 17:20). This indicates His foresight and understanding of the spread of the Gospel and the growth of the Church.

Themes and Theology:

1. Unity Among Believers:
Jesus prays for unity among all believers, "that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I am in You" (John 17:21). This unity is not merely organizational but is deeply spiritual, reflecting the unity within the Trinity. It is a call for believers to be united in purpose, love, and truth, mirroring the divine relationship between the Father and the Son.

2. The Witness of Unity:
The unity of believers serves as a powerful testimony to the world. Jesus prays that through this unity, "the world may believe that You sent Me" (John 17:21). The harmonious relationship among Christians is intended to be a living witness to the truth of the Gospel and the divine mission of Jesus Christ.

3. The Glory Given to Believers:
Jesus speaks of the glory given to Him by the Father, which He has also given to believers, "that they may be one as We are one" (John 17:22). This glory is not of earthly splendor but of divine presence and love, enabling believers to reflect God's character and purpose.

4. The Love of God:
A central theme in this prayer is the love of God. Jesus desires that "the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them" (John 17:26). This love is foundational for the believer's relationship with God and with one another, emphasizing the transformative power of divine love in the life of a Christian.

5. The Presence of Christ:
Jesus expresses His desire for believers to be with Him, "to see My glory that You gave Me because You loved Me before the foundation of the world" (John 17:24). This points to the eschatological hope of eternal life with Christ, where believers will fully experience His glory and love.

Significance for Believers:
This prayer highlights the ongoing intercessory role of Jesus for His followers. It reassures believers of their inclusion in His divine plan and the importance of unity and love within the body of Christ. The prayer serves as a model for Christian prayer and a reminder of the spiritual realities that bind believers together across time and space. Through this prayer, Jesus emphasizes the transformative power of faith, unity, and love, which are central to the Christian life and witness.