EGW WritingsJohn 17

Ellen G. White · Page 7 of 8

John 17:19-26

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 158, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 158, 1898, par. 19

“For their sakes I sanctify myself,” Christ prayed, “that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word, that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:19-23.] With this instruction before us, let us strive against all variance. Let every man esteem and improve the gifts given him by God. Let God’s workers be careful not to hinder another worker because he does not place his feet in the exact track they are making.

13LtMs, Ms 158, 1898, par. 21

Yielding to a desire for diversity has placed the church where God cannot glorify His name through His people. The question is asked, Why are not the sick among us healed? It is because of the lack of unity and love that exists in the church. Perfection of character means perfection in unity. “That they [all] may be one,” Christ said, “as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee.” [Verse 21.] What possibilities are before us! Shall not our faith grasp them? It is this fitful, careless, indifferent spirit, expressed more loudly by words than by actions, that wounds the heart of Christ. “O righteous Father,” Christ prayed, “the world hath not known thee; but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it; that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verses 25, 26.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]

MR No. 1556—Church Leader to Be Self-Denying and Humble, Not Proud and Dictatorial

21MR 274.2

The ministers of God must be ministers of righteousness, who always wear the yoke of Christ and always follow the path of justice and integrity. No words caused by religious dyspepsia should be spoken. God has a people on this earth, and those who minister in word and doctrine must be one, as Christ is one with the Father. The Lord desires all to draw together in even cords as they engage in the solemn services of His sanctuary. As God meets with His people, let not those who are leading the service seek to draw the people to themselves. Let them say instead, “God is among us. We are in the presence of Him whom we have come to worship.” It is His will that all who worship Him shall respect and love one another, carrying out the instruction given by Christ just before His crucifixion. John 17:19-26.

21MR 274.6

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 19, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 19, 1901, par. 24

The ministers of God must be ministers of righteousness, who always wear the yoke of Christ and always follow the path of justice and integrity. No words caused by religious dyspepsia should be spoken. God has a people on this earth, and those who minister in Word and doctrine must be one, as Christ is one with the Father. The Lord desires all to draw together in even cords as they engage in the solemn services of His sanctuary. As God meets with His people, let not those who are leading the service seek to draw the people to themselves. Let them say instead, “God is among us. We are in the presence of Him whom we have come to worship.” It is His will that all who worship Him shall respect and love one another, carrying out the instruction given by Christ just before His crucifixion. John 17:19-26.

16LtMs, Lt 19, 1901, par. 28

Schisms and divisions in the household of faith are not of God. Let us study the prayer which Christ offered for the unity of His followers, and let us make earnest efforts to answer this prayer. Christ said, “For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:19-23.]

John 17:20

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Ambassadors for Christ

GW92 19.2

The commission which Christ gave to the disciples, just prior to his ascension to heaven, was, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.” [Matthew 28:19, 20; John 17:20.] The commission reaches those who shall believe on his word through his disciples. And all who are called of God to stand as ambassadors for him, should take the lessons upon practical godliness given them by Christ in his word, and teach them to the people.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

Living Representatives of Christ

1TT 531.3

The commission which Christ gave to the disciples just prior to His ascension to heaven was: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:19, 20. “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word.” John 17:20. The commission reaches those who shall believe on His word through His disciples. And all who are called of God to stand as ambassadors for Him should take the lessons upon practical godliness given them by Christ in His word and teach them to the people.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 36, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 36, 1905, par. 9

God’s people are to sit together in heavenly places in Christ. So long as there are souls to save, their interest in the work of soul-saving is to know no abating. If we expect to feel in our lives the moisture and dew of heaven, we must improve every opportunity to strengthen every line of work that will extend the knowledge of God in our world. “Neither pray I for these alone,” Christ said, “but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word.” [John 17:20.] The truth for this time must be carried to those who have never heard it. Not all can go as missionaries to foreign lands, but all can do the work waiting for them in their own neighborhood. All can give of their means for the carrying forward of foreign missionary work. All can be partakers of the divine nature.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 132, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 132, 1906, par. 28

Elder Daniells chose for the basis of his remarks (John 17:20): “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word.” In part he said, The prayer of Christ reaches down to us today. The mighty Victor’s prayer, One who knew how to believe and how to pray. To me there is a great and beautiful lesson in this. We ought to make more earnest prayers for the workers. There is a blessing in this which can be received in no other way. There is a failure on our part to remember our beloved brethren and sisters who are in the field.

Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2

Chapter 89—Positive Influences on the Mind

2MCP 797.3

Aim to Reach a State of Unity—It is the will of God that union and brotherly love should exist among His people. The prayer of Christ just before His crucifixion was that His disciples might be one as He is one with the Father, that the world might believe that God had sent Him. This most touching and wonderful prayer reaches down the ages, even to our day; for His words were, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word” (John 17:20).

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 48—The Division of Canaan

PP 520.3

It is the will of God that union and brotherly love should exist among His people. The prayer of Christ just before His crucifixion was that His disciples might be one as He is one with the Father, that the world might believe that God had sent Him. This most touching and wonderful prayer reaches down the ages, even to our day; for His words were, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word.” John 17:20. While we are not to sacrifice one principle of truth, it should be our constant aim to reach this state of unity. This is the evidence of our discipleship. Said Jesus, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:35. The apostle Peter exhorts the church, “Be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another; love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.” 1 Peter 3:8, 9.

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 37—“Even So Send I You”

1SM 263.1

“As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you” (John 20:21). We are to bear as definite a testimony to the truth as it is in Jesus, as did Christ and His apostles. Trusting in the efficiency of the Holy Spirit, we are to testify of the mercy, goodness, and love of a crucified and risen Saviour, and thus be agents through whom the darkness will be dispelled from many minds, and cause thanksgiving and praise to ascend from many hearts to God. There is a great work to be done by every son and daughter of God. Jesus says, “If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever” (John 14:15, 16). In His prayer for His disciples, He says that He not only prayed for those in His immediate presence, but “for them also which shall believe on me through their word” (John 17:20). Again He said, “Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I” (John 14:28). Thus we see that Christ has prayed for His people, and made them abundant promises to ensure success to them as His colaborers. He said, “Greater works than these [those He did] shall he do; because I go unto my Father” (John 14:12).

Steps to Christ

Chapter 8—Growing Up Into Christ

SC 75.1

All that Christ was to the disciples, He desires to be to His children today; for in that last prayer, with the little band of disciples gathered about Him, He said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word.” John 17:20.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

God Leading Out a People

1TT 444.1

God is leading out a people to stand in perfect unity upon the platform of eternal truth. Christ gave Himself to the world that He might “purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” Titus 2:14. This refining process is designed to purge the church from all unrighteousness and the spirit of discord and contention, that they may build up instead of tear down, and concentrate their energies on the great work before them. God designs that His people should all come into the unity of the faith. The prayer of Christ just prior to His crucifixion was that His disciples might be one, even as He was one with the Father, that the world might believe that the Father had sent Him. This most touching and wonderful prayer reaches down the ages, even to our day; for His words were: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word.” John 17:20.

John 17:20-21

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 44, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 44, 1895, par. 1

There is a great work to be done by every son and daughter of God. Our Saviour prayed not only for His apostles, “but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.” [John 17:20.] We are expected to bear as definite a testimony of the truth as it is in Jesus as the apostles did. If we do this, trusting in the efficiency of the Holy Spirit, the darkness will be dispelled from many minds, and many voices will be heard testifying of the mercy, goodness, and love of a crucified and risen Saviour. Christ’s instruction to His followers is, “As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.” [John 20:21.] And He also says, “If ye love me keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever.” “Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye love me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father, for my Father is greater than I.” [John 14:15, 16, 28.] If we believe the words of Christ, He has promised, “greater works than these (that He did) shall ye do; because I go to my Father.” [Verse 12.]

10LtMs, Ms 44, 1895, par. 15

“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou Father art in me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent me.” [John 17:20, 21.] A living church is one that is engaged in earnest work for the Master. Christ’s prayer to His Father was that through the sanctification of the truth, His disciples might be one in Him. They are to deny self. They are to consecrate every ability to His service, through patience, goodness, mercy, sympathy, and love representing our Saviour to the world. Through the influence of the Holy Spirit, all are to labor for the unity of love, that they may bring others to the knowledge of the truth. The Christian devotion of those who stand in the wondrous light that shines from Calvary will recommend the followers of Christ and His service to the world.

God’s Amazing Grace

Brings Harmony, July 21

AG 210.1

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. John 17:20, 21.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

The Truth Elevates

1TT 166.1

God is bringing out a people and preparing them to stand as one, united, to speak the same things, and thus carry out the prayer of Christ for His disciples. “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” John 17:20, 21.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 80, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 80, 1894, par. 25

Jesus Christ is one with the Father, and the whole heavenly universe is bound up with God and Christ. Heavenly intelligences manifest respect and love one for another, while giving their adoration to God. The family of heaven represents what the family on earth should be, and what it will be when every follower of Christ is fully identified with Him, when each one identifies his interest with that of his brethren. Then the prayer of Christ will be answered, when He said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [John 17:20, 21.] The church will then be “the salt of the earth.” [Matthew 5:13.]

Maranatha

The Results of False Visions, May 30

Mar 158.5

There is nothing more detrimental to the soul’s interest, its purity, its true and holy conceptions of God, and of sacred and eternal things, than constantly giving heed to and exalting that which is not from God. It poisons the heart, and degrades the understanding. Pure truth can be traced to its divine Source, by its elevating, refining, sanctifying influence upon the character of the receiver. The Author of all truth prayed to His Father, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me” (John 17:20, 21).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 135, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, par. 6

Heaven and holy angels are working to unite, to bring into the unity of the faith, into the one body. Satan opposes this and is determined to scatter and divide and bring different sentiments, that the prayer of Christ may not be answered: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” John 17:20, 21. Jesus designed that the faith of His people should be one. If one goes forth preaching one thing, and another differing with him preaches something else, how can those who believe “through their word” be one? There will be difference of sentiments.—Testimonies for the Church 1:326, 327.

16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, par. 53

Jesus designed that the faith of His people should be one. If one goes forth preaching one thing, and another differing with him preaches something else, how can those believing “through their word” be one? [John 17:20.] There will be difference of sentiments.—Testimonies for the Church 1:327.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 109, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 109, 1906, par. 34

All who love God supremely will love their neighbor as themselves. The keeping of the new commandment is to the believer a step heavenward. The one thing that will give God’s people the supremacy is obedience to the command, “These things I command you, that ye love one another.” [John 15:17.] “Neither pray I for these alone,” Christ said, “but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” [John 17:20, 21.]

Selected Messages Book 2

A Message to J. M. Garmire

2SM 78.3

Oh, how deceptive is the human heart! How easy it is to harmonize with that which is evil! There is nothing more detrimental to the soul’s interest, its purity, its true and holy conceptions of God, and of sacred and eternal things, than constantly giving heed to and exalting that which is not from God. It poisons the heart, and degrades the understanding. Pure truth can be traced to its divine Source, by its elevating, refining, sanctifying influence upon the character of the receiver. The Author of all truth prayed to His Father, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me” (John 17:20, 21). Things will be constantly arising to cause disunion, to draw away from the truth. This questioning, criticizing, denouncing, passing judgment on others, is not an evidence of the grace of Christ in the heart. It does not produce unity. Such work has been carried on in the past by persons claiming to have wonderful light, when they were deep in sin. Heresy, dishonesty, and falsehood were all blended in them.

The Ministry of Healing

Revealed to the Disciples

MH 421.8

This Day With God

Harvesttime, June 10

TDG 170.5

In His prayer for His disciples shortly before His ascension, Christ said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me” (John 17:20, 21). Oh, that these blessed words may be written by the finger of God upon every heart.—Manuscript 7, June 10, 1891, “Christian Service in the Living Church.”

Ye Shall Receive Power

Unity, March 18

YRP 86.1

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. John 17:20, 21.

John 17:20-22

In Heavenly Places

Jesus the Mighty Petitioner, March 10

HP 76.1

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word. John 17:20.

HP 76.4

Christ’s life was pure and undefiled. He refused to yield to the temptations of the enemy. Had He yielded on one point, the human family would have been lost. Who can tell the agony that He endures as He sees Satan playing the game of life for the souls of those who claim to be His disciples, and sees them yielding point after point, allowing the soul’s defenses to be broken down? We can form no conception of the agony that He endures at this sight. One soul lost, one soul given up to Satan’s power, means more to Him than the whole world.... What an argument of power in the prayer, “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one” (John 17:21, 22).16Manuscript 9, 1906.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]

MR No. 956—Revival at Danvers, Massachusetts

12MR 154.2

The whole treasure of heaven is at our command in our work of preparing the way of the Lord. God has made it possible by giving us the cooperation of heavenly angels, for our work to be a wonderful, yes, a glorious success. But success will seldom result from scattered, individual effort. The influence of every church member is required. The influence of ministers and workers is needed to prepare the way for the light and glory of God. Every soul who claims to believe in Jesus, God lays under tribute to Himself. The prayer of Christ for His disciples was, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one” (John 17:20-22).

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Revival at Danvers, Massachusetts

1888 746.2

The whole treasure of heaven is at our command in our work of preparing the way of the Lord. God has made it possible by giving us the cooperation of heavenly angels, for our work to be a wonderful, yes, a glorious success. But success will seldom result from scattered, individual effort. The influence of every church member is required. The influence of ministers and workers is needed to prepare the way for the light and glory of God. Every soul who claims to believe in Jesus, God lays under tribute to Himself. The prayer of Christ for His disciples was, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one” (John 17:20-22).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 43, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 43, 1890, par. 7

The whole treasure of heaven is at our command in our work of preparing the way of the Lord. God has made it possible, by giving us the cooperation of heavenly angels, for our work to be a wonderful, yes, a glorious success. But success will seldom result from scattered, individual effort. The influence of every church member is required. The influence of ministers and workers is needed to prepare the way for the light and glory of God. Every soul who claims to believe in Jesus, God lays under tribute to Himself. The prayer of Christ for His disciples was, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word, that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one.” [John 17:20-22.]

John 17:20-23

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 41, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 41, 1893, par. 11

You did run well for a season. You did taste and see that the Lord is good. You state, “I came under temptation, I began to find fault with my brethren.” When you yielded to that temptation you of course could not be “looking unto Jesus” [Hebrews 12:2]; you could not be a doer of His Word, and while criticizing your brethren you could not be answering the prayer of Christ in being one with your brethren. This prayer was offered to His Father, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.” [John 17:20.]

8LtMs, Lt 41, 1893, par. 13

Listen to the prayer of Christ just prior to His crucifixion: “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory (character) which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [Verses 21-23.]

Ye Shall Receive Power

Oneness, March 19

YRP 87.1

And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. John 17:22, 23.

YRP 87.2

Manuscript Releases, vol. 16 [Nos. 1186-1235]

MR No. 1213—Each Follower of Christ is Called to Work; All are to Copy Christ, the Pattern; Harmony to Prevail

16MR 191.3

This love among brethren is of the greatest consequence for the prosperity of the church. Satan knows this, and he is ready with his temptations of selfishness, working in them a spirit of envy, jealousy, evil surmisings. “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in us” [John 17:20, 21].

16MR 191.4

Here is the strength of Christ’s prayer for unity: “That the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory [character] which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one. [Wonderful request; it seems almost too great for expectation!] I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me” [verses 21-23].

16MR 204.3

There was kept before them that His people must be a combined, united power in love and efficiency, to become a light amid the moral darkness. By these combined forces [He] specified that they all may be one. Hear it, every one who is a Seventh-day Adventist; hear it: “As Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.... I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me” [John 17:21, 23].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 156, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 156, 1898, par. 4

When church members are imbued with Christ’s Spirit, they will be able to fulfill His commission. But unless they strive with all their capabilities to answer the prayer, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word, that they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee” [John 17:20, 21], they are not bound up with Him. The spirit developed by the natural character will not lead us to work as Christ worked. There can be no unity while this spirit is cherished. The pure principles of God’s Word, which are essential to our moral health and purity, cannot be followed while self is upheld. Individual consecration means that the whole being, mind, soul, heart, and strength, is placed on the side of Christ. This is genuine sanctification, and is brought about through obedience to the truth. This sanctification every individual must have who would overcome as Christ overcame. Each must possess that faith that works by love and purifies the soul. This will produce true unity.

13LtMs, Ms 156, 1898, par. 6

Christ declared, “The glory which thou gavest me I have given them, that they may be one, even as we are one.” [Verse 22.] How many are seeking with determination to answer this prayer? How many are striving for complete unity? How many desire to be one with Christ, even as the Father and the Son are one? Unless this unity had been essential and possible, Christ would never have made this prayer. But Satan strives to set men at variance. He would induce even Christ’s professed disciples to seek for the supremacy. Those who count themselves as disciples of Jesus should learn and practice the lessons given by the Master. “Take my yoke upon you,” He says, “and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Every ambitious thought and plan is to be cut away. Self is to be regarded as a secondary matter, as far as selfish purposes are concerned.

13LtMs, Ms 156, 1898, par. 9

“The glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.] If received aright, the message we bear will do this work. The love of Christ is to be revealed, not only as the motive of action, but as the pattern for all plans, all sacrifices. If the truth is received into good and honest hearts, it will lead the receiver to see that day by day he is to make an entire, unreserved surrender of every faculty, every capability. The powers of soul, body, and spirit are to be given in willing, wholehearted service to Him who bought the human family with His own blood. “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price. Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.]

This Day With God

Destiny for Eternity, April 21

TDG 120.3

In His wonderful prayer, Christ said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word” (John 17:20). This takes in all who believe the gospel. “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me” (verse 21). Our unity and love for one another are the credentials by which we testify to the world that God has sent His Son to save sinners.

TDG 120.4

“And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me” (verses 22, 23). Every time I read this statement, it seems almost too good to be true. But I receive it and believe it, and I thank God for His full and abundant promises, given on condition that we meet the standard of the righteousness of Christ....

Counsels for the Church

God’s Individual Interests in His Children

CCh 76.6

This unity is expressed also in the seventeenth chapter of John, in the prayer of Christ for His disciples: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” John 17:20-23.

The Story of Jesus

Chapter 15—At the Passover Supper

SJ 99.8

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Warnings Against Jealousy and Misjudging; A Defense of Dr. Kellogg

1888 87.2

Why is it that our personal feelings are stirred up so easily? Why do we cherish suspicion toward each other? One of the terrible fruits of sin is that it separates very [close] friends, puts brother at variance against brother, and neighbor against neighbor. Those who have enjoyed sweet union and love become cold and indifferent toward each other because they do not hold, in all points, ideas alike. Our blessed Lord came into the world to bring peace and good will to men, and prayed that His disciples might be one as He was one with the Father. He prayed for His immediate disciples and said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also who shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me” [John 17:20-23]. It is the absence of Christ in the soul, and the cherishing of self-sufficiency, that leads to dissension.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

The Message of 1888; An Appeal for Unity; The Need for the Indwelling Christ

1888 1048.1

What attainments are there presented for the Christian’s endeavor, but how far short are our practices. Were our practices in harmony with the command of our Lord, the result would be glorious. He says, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved Me” [John 17:20-23].

Sermons and Talks, vol. 2

Manuscript 96, 1902

2SAT 209.6

“Yes,” one says, “this is exactly what I believe in—consolidation.” But this unity is not what the world calls consolidation. Unity among brethren results in consolidation with Christ and with the heavenly angels. Such consolidation is heaven-born. It is that for which Christ longed when He prayed, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, That they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me” [John 17:20-23].

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Testimony of Scripture

3TT 267.3

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

Unity in Action and Judgment

1TT 345.2

God designs that His people shall be a unit, that they shall see eye to eye and be of the same mind and of the same judgment. This cannot be accomplished without a clear, pointed, living testimony in the church. The prayer of Christ was that His disciples might be one as He was one with His Father. “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” John 17:20-23.

From Trials to Triumph

What the Holy Spirit Accomplished

TT 15.2

Christ had finished the work given Him. He had gathered out those who were to continue His work. And He said: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; ... that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” John 17:20-23.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Ms 4, 1873

2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, par. 2

I committed my case to our heavenly Father and at the appointed time I went to the meeting in Excelsior Hall. We found a goodly number assembled in Bible class. Opened meeting by singing hymn. I then prayed earnestly for the Lord to work for His church and to give me strength to speak to those present. I had some freedom in prayer. I then spoke from John 17:20-23. I spoke, feeling the words I uttered with tears. I entreated the people that the prayer of Christ might not be in vain. There was a melting spirit with some, while others seemed to be as unimpressionable as stones. Some wept freely as we dwelt upon the inexpressible love of Christ for fallen man.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 21, 1888

5LtMs, Lt 21, 1888, par. 4

Why is it that our personal feelings are stirred up so easily? Why do we cherish suspicion toward each other? One of the terrible fruits of sin is that it separates very [close] friends, puts brother at variance against brother, and neighbor against neighbor. Those who have enjoyed sweet union and love become cold and indifferent toward each other because they do not hold, in all points, ideas alike. Our blessed Lord came into the world to bring peace and good will to men and prayed that His disciples might be one as He was one with the Father. He prayed for His immediate disciples and said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also who shall believe on me through their word, that they may all be one as thou, Father art in me and I in thee, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory that thou hast given me I have given them that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.] It is the absence of Christ in the soul and the cherishing of self-sufficiency that lead to dissension.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 75, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 75, 1890, par. 11

The prayer of Christ was for His immediate disciples and He adds, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” John 17:20-23.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 32, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 32, 1890, par. 9

The prayer of Christ was for His individual disciples, and He adds, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their words, that they all may be one as thou Father art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them, that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 24, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 24, 1892, par. 23

What attainments are there presented for the Christian’s endeavor, but how far short are our practices. Were our practices in harmony with the command of our Lord, the result would be glorious. He says, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one as thou Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 3, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 3, 1891, par. 5

The prayer of Christ just prior to the crucifixion was, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also who shall believe on me through their word; that they may all be one as thou, Father, art in me and I in thee; that they also may be one in us that the world may know that thou has sent me. And the glory which thou has given me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one, I in them and they in me, that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 51, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 51, 1894, par. 7

I would that I had the power to present the subject to others as it has been presented to me. Just before He descended to the greatest depths of humiliation, the Saviour lifted up His eyes to heaven and prayed that His disciples might be one. He said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word, that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them, that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 34, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 34, 1894, par. 20

Those who serve Christ are among those for whom He prayed when He said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory (character) which thou gavest me I have given them: that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 84, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 84, 1894, par. 11

I would that I had power to present this subject to others as it has been presented to me. Just before He descended to the greatest depths of humiliation, just before He offered up His life on the cross, the Saviour lifted up His eyes to heaven and prayed that His disciples might be one. He said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.] <Can we be surprised that Satan will work with all his power by his various methods to root out the beautiful plant of [love] and plant the root of bitterness and hatred?>

Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]

MR No. 863—Christian Unity

11MR 49.2

The Lord has called us to unity in the bonds of Christ and fellowship and love. In His prayer for His disciples, Christ said: [John 17:20-23 quoted.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 126, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 126, 1897, par. 12

This was the class of work done at Adelaide. All should work earnestly to close the door to that class who are serving under Satan’s banner, and doing their best to counterwork the prayer Christ made to His Father just prior to His crucifixion: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word, that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them, that they may be one even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.] “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 186, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 186, 1897, par. 12

We should work earnestly to close the door against those who in this way are serving under Satan’s banner, for they are doing their best to counter work the prayer of Christ: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word, that they all may be one: as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them, that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.] To His disciples Christ said, “A new commandment give I unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 167, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 167, 1898, par. 31

The Lord can do very little for us while we live in transgression, breaking the first four, and the last six commandments. All who love God supremely will love their neighbor as themselves. The keeping of the new commandment is to the believer a step heavenward. The one thing that will give God’s people the supremacy is obedience to Christ’s word, “These things I command you that you love one another.” [John 15:17.] “Neither pray I for these alone,” He said, “but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 130, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, par. 11

This love among brethren is of the greatest consequence for the prosperity of His church. Satan knows this, and he is ready with his temptations of selfishness, working in them a spirit of envy, jealousy, evil surmisings. “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us.” Here is the strength of His prayer for unity: “That the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory (character) which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one. (Wonderful request; it seems almost too great for expectation!) I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.]

16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, par. 48

Lifting up His prayer, the last prayer for His church was that they all may be one with the Father, “that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [John 17:21.]

16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, par. 51

[In] the last chapter of Revelation, these messages given to the church, Christ did not withhold from His followers that they must do their work amid trials and exposure to persecution and [loss of] life itself; but they must not become dim or cease to shine as lights amid the moral darkness, to eradicate the dense gloom of immorality and sin. They are to unite in bearing one another’s burdens. Ye are the light of the world. There was kept before them that His people must be a combined, united power in love and efficiency, to become a light amid the moral darkness. [To] these combined forces [it was] specified that they all [should] be one. Hear it, every one who is a Seventh-day Adventist; hear it: “As thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee; that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. ... I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:21, 23.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 15 [Nos. 1136-1185]

MR No. 1152—The Message of 1888; An Appeal for Unity; The Need for the Indwelling Christ

15MR 88.1

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 191, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 191, 1901, par. 8

Christ’s prayer for His disciples was, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 126, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 126, 1902, par. 1

I was very much pleased to receive a letter from Brother Franke this morning. And I was greatly pleased with the contents of the letter. The words written were right words. We are to unify, and thus answer Christ’s petition: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 162, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 162, 1902, par. 11

“Neither pray I for these alone,” Christ said, “but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 96, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 96, 1902, par. 31

“Yes,” one says, “this is exactly what I believe in—consolidation.” But this unity is not what the world calls consolidation. Unity among brethren results in consolidation with Christ and with the heavenly angels. Such consolidation is heaven-born. It is that for which Christ longed when He prayed: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” [John 17:20-23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 5, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 5, 1908, par. 12

I am thankful when I think of the advantages enjoyed by the schools that are established near our sanitariums, so that the work of the two educational institutions can blend. The students in these schools, while gaining an education in the knowledge of present truth, can also learn how to be ministers of healing to those whom they go forth to serve. The prayer of Christ includes such work as this: “Neither pray I for these alone,” He said, “but for them also that shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee; that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them; and Thou in Me; that they may be made perfect in one: that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me; and hast loved them as Thou hast loved Me.” [John 17:20-23.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]

MR No. 664—Christ’s High Standard Attainable by His Grace

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in us: That the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.—John 17:20-23.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]

Warnings Against Jealousy and Misjudging; A Defense of Dr. Kellogg

12MR 365.2

Why is it that our personal feelings are stirred up so easily? Why do we cherish suspicion toward each other? One of the terrible fruits of sin is that it separates very [close] friends, puts brother at variance against brother, and neighbor against neighbor. Those who have enjoyed sweet union and love become cold and indifferent toward each other because they do not hold, in all points, ideas alike. Our blessed Lord came into the world to bring peace and good will to men, and prayed that His disciples might be one as He was one with the Father. He prayed for His immediate disciples and said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also who shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me” [John 17:20-23]. It is the absence of Christ in the soul, and the cherishing of self-sufficiency, that leads to dissension.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Testimony of Scripture

8T 269.3

John 17:20-24

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Consecration to the Work

GW92 30.3

Jesus pleaded, not for one only, but for all his disciples, “Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am.” [John 17:24.] His eye pierced the dark veil of the future, and read the life-history of every son and daughter of Adam. He felt the burdens and sorrows of every tempest-tossed soul; and that earnest prayer included with his living disciples all his followers, to the close of time. “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.” [John 17:20.] Yes; that prayer of Christ embraces even us. We should be comforted by the thought that we have a great Intercessor in the heavens, presenting our petitions before God. “If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” [1 John 2:1.] In the hour of greatest need, when discouragement would overwhelm the soul, it is then that the watchful eye of Jesus sees that we need his help. The hour of man’s necessity is the hour of God’s opportunity. When all human support fails, then Jesus comes to our aid, and his presence scatters the darkness and lifts the cloud of gloom.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]

MR No. 1333—Diary Fragment—February to May, 1902; The Spirit of Thanksgiving; Importance of Unity

18MR 213.1

I am pained at heart when I consider how much Christ is dishonored by this disregard of His teachings. The Lord Jesus hath spoken, and in His prayer to His Father presented the result of unity and love of brethren in the impression made upon the unbelieving world. Shall we then repent and be doers of the words of Christ, and cultivate love, true courtesy, and gentleness, giving respect to the Lord’s purchased possession, and demonstrating the truthfulness of the words of Christ? John 17:20-24.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 221, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 221, 1902, par. 8

I am pained at heart when I consider how much Christ is dishonored by this disregard of His teachings. The Lord Jesus hath spoken and, in His prayer to His Father, presented the result of unity and love of brethren in the impression made upon the unbelieving world. Shall we then repent and be doers of the words of Christ and cultivate love, true courtesy, and gentleness, giving respect to the Lord’s purchased possession, and demonstrating the truthfulness of the words of Christ? John 17:20-24.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 166, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 166, 1902, par. 17

“Neither pray I for these alone,” Christ says; “but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one; I in them and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one: and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me. Father, I will that they also whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me; for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world.” [John 17:20-24.]

17LtMs, Ms 166, 1902, par. 19

“That they all may be one.” [Verse 21.] Christ brings His disciples into an inward, living union with one another and with God. And under the influence of His Spirit they live lives that bear uncontrovertible evidence to the power of the truth. In Christian love they are bound up with the Father and the Son, and their unity is a convincing proof that God has sent His Son into the world to save sinners. And the glory that God gave Christ as His obedient Son, Christ gives to them, by His participation with them in humanity and by the promises that He makes to them.

John 17:20-26

Sermons and Talks, vol. 1

Who Will Accept the Light from Heaven?

1SAT 129.1

Jesus has some very precious words I want to read to you: “Neither pray I for these alone (that is, the disciples immediately around him), but for them also which shall believe on me through their word” [John 17:20]. That is us. That means us brethren. “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me” [Verse 21]. The unity and the harmony.

1SAT 130.1

Now, here is the word: “That the world may believe that thou hast sent me, And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them” [Verse 21]. That is what we are waiting for here; we want some of that glory; and it is our privilege to have it. There is darkness enough in the world, and we want the light of the glory of God to lighten our pathway and to lighten the pathway of others. We want some of that glory, that you may go forth to your labors with that glory shining upon our countenances, expressed in your words and in your testimonies, that it will make an impression on minds wherever you go.

1SAT 130.2

“And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one.” Who is it that is burdened that they may get into unity? Who are they? Where are they? God help us that we may understand what spirit actuates and moves us. “I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one” [Verse 23]. Now their profit is not in seeing just how far they can keep off, and keep another mind, and their own ideas, and cherish their own ideas, and water their own ideas. No, it is that they may be made perfect in one; and they want to be made in one, and they are trying to be one, and they are trying to get where they may be in unity.

1SAT 132.2

“And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them.... For thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee” [Verses 24, 25]. Oh, how little we know “Thee,” and we profess to be His followers. He says, “The world hath not known thee.” God forbid that it should be of those that carry the truth to those who are in darkness that Christ will say, “They do not know Thee.” How few know my Saviour!

1SAT 132.3

“But I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them” [Verses 25, 26]. That is His word. We have been reading it for more than the last year more distinctly. “I have declared unto them thy name”—Thy name, its goodness, its mercy, its love, its compassion, that you may gather up your forces and think, and that you may plant yourselves upon the rock Christ Jesus and believe Him. “I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it.” That is what He came here for.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Who Will Accept the Light from Heaven?

1888 549.1

1888 550.1

Now, here is the word: “That the world may believe that thou hast sent me, And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them” [verse 21]. That is what we are waiting for here; we want some of that glory; and it is our privilege to have it. There is darkness enough in the world, and we want the light of the glory of God to lighten our pathway and to lighten the pathway of others. We want some of that glory, that you may go forth to your labors with that glory shining upon our countenances, expressed in your words and in your testimonies, that it will make an impression on minds wherever you go.

1888 550.2

“And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one.” Who is it that is burdened that they may get into unity? Who are they? Where are they? God help us that we may understand what spirit actuates and moves us. “I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one” [verse 23]. Now their profit is not in seeing just how far they can keep off, and keep another mind, and their own ideas, and cherish their own ideas, and water their own ideas. No, it is that they may be made perfect in one; and they want to be made in one, and they are trying to be one, and they are trying to get where they may be in unity.

1888 552.2

“And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them.... For thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee” [verses 24, 25]. Oh, how little we know “Thee,” and we profess to be His followers. He says, “The world hath not known thee.” God forbid that it should be of those that carry the truth to those who are in darkness that Christ will say, “They do not know Thee.” How few know my Saviour!

1888 552.3

“But I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them” [verses 25, 26]. That is His word. We have been reading it for more than the last year more distinctly. “I have declared unto them thy name”—Thy name, its goodness, its mercy, its love, its compassion, that you may gather up your forces and think, and that you may plant yourselves upon the rock Christ Jesus and believe Him. “I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it.” That is what He came here for.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 10, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 10, 1890, par. 2

He has some very precious words I want to read to you: “Neither pray I for these alone (that is the disciples immediately around him), but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.” [John 17:20.] That is us. That means us, Brethren. “That they may be one as thou Father art in me and I in thee, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [Verse 21.] The unity and the harmony! Now, I have thought of a good many that ought to be here that are not here.

6LtMs, Ms 10, 1890, par. 5

Now, here is the Word: “That they may believe that thou hast sent me; and the glory which thou gavest me I have given them.” [Verses 21, 22.] That is what we are waiting for here. We want some of that glory, and it is our privilege to have it. There is darkness enough in the world, and we want the light of the glory of God to lighten our pathway and to lighten the pathway of others. We want some of that glory, that you may go forth to your labors with that glory shining upon your countenances, expressed in your words and in your testimonies, that it will make an impression on minds wherever you go.

6LtMs, Ms 10, 1890, par. 6

“And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them, that they may be one, even as we are one.” [Verse 22.] Who is it that is burdened that they may get into unity? Who are they? Where are they? God help us that we may understand what spirit actuates and moves us. “I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one.” [Verse 23.] Now their profit is not in seeing just how far they can keep off, and keep another mind and their own ideas, and cherish their own ideas, and water their own ideas. No, but it is that they may be made perfect in one, and they want to be made in one, and they are trying to be one, and they are trying to get where they may be in unity.

6LtMs, Ms 10, 1890, par. 7

“That the world may know that thou hast sent me.” Those are the credentials they bear to the world. “And hast loved”—now, mark this; O, it is such a power with me. It has such a power for my heart; it melts and dissolves my very being as I read this. “And hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [Verse 23.] Why, brethren, can we comprehend this? Can we take hold of it? Can we measure it? “Hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” Why, that ought to bring every soul of us in gladness and joy and thankfulness and gratitude the whole time to God, that the preparation has been made that this shall be done, that God loves us as His Son. Why? Because we are united in Christ as He is united with the Father. There is a oneness with those that are partakers of the Spirit of Christ. You may bring the horse to the water, but you never can make him drink, he has got to drink of himself. Just so it is with us; we may have a house around us, and the words of life may be presented in all their beauty and in all their clearness, and it is like the bright shining of the candle. But unless they will kindle their tapers from it, unless they are willing to get some light, they won’t have any, no, indeed. Now, that is the most precious to me.

6LtMs, Ms 10, 1890, par. 8

And He says, “Father I will that they also that thou lovest, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am.” [Verse 24.] Why, in His kingdom they will be right around Him, right about Him. Oh, what a thought! It makes me willing—even if I die at my post—it makes me willing to make an entire sacrifice for the truth’s sake. Oh, if I can be with Him where He is! He is my love, my crown of rejoicing. He is my hope and comfort.

6LtMs, Ms 10, 1890, par. 9

Now what? “That they may behold my glory.” [Verse 24.] We have felt Him in the humiliation, we have felt Him in the sacrifice, we have felt Him in the trials, we have felt Him in the test. Now that we may behold Him, that we may see Him as He is, that we may behold His glory. If we behold Him we will be a partaker with Him of His glory. “And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them. For thou lovest me before the foundations of the world. O, righteous Father, the world hath not known thee.” [Verses 22, 24, 25.] Oh, how little we know thee. And we profess to be His followers. He says, “The world hath not known thee.” God forbid that it should be of those that carry the truth to those that are in darkness that Christ will say they do not know it. How few know my Saviour!

6LtMs, Ms 10, 1890, par. 10

“But I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it; that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verses 25, 26.] That is His Word. We have been reading it for more than the last year more distinctly. “I have declared unto them thy name,”—Thy name, its goodness, its mercy, its love, its compassion, that you may gather up your forces and think, and that you may plant yourselves upon the Rock Christ Jesus and believe Him.

6LtMs, Ms 10, 1890, par. 11

“I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it.” That is what He came here for. “That the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verse 26.] I am so glad, brethren, I am so glad that we have the privilege. But our minds have become separated from God; and the enemy meant it should be so. He cast his hellish shadow right between us and our hope, and our strength, and our comfort, that we should not see Him; that he might eclipse Jesus, that we should discern Him and what He was to us and what He would do for us, and what He would be to us—that he should cast this dark and gloomy shadow between us and our Saviour.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 60, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 60, 1900, par. 16

In His wonderful prayer Christ said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which believe on me through their word.” This takes in all who believe the gospel. “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [John 17:20, 21.] Our unity and love for one another are the credentials by which we testify to the world that God has sent his Son to save sinners.

15LtMs, Lt 60, 1900, par. 17

“And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [Verses 22, 23.] Every time I read this statement, it seems almost too good to be true. But I receive it and believe it, and I thank God for His full and abundant promises, given on condition that we meet the standard of the righteousness of Christ.

15LtMs, Lt 60, 1900, par. 18

“Father, I will that they also whom thou hast given me be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me; for thou lovest me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee; but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it; that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verses 24-26.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 34, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 34, 1900, par. 15

In His prayer for His disciples Christ said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; and that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [John 17:20, 21.]

15LtMs, Ms 34, 1900, par. 17

“And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me, for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not know thee, but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it; that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verses 22-26.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 151, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 151, 1902, par. 26

Read Christ’s prayer for His disciples, offered just before His crucifixion: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” [John 17:20, 21.]

17LtMs, Ms 151, 1902, par. 29

“And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one; I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me. Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me; for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known Thee; but I have known Thee, and these have known that Thou hast sent Me. And I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it; that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verses 22-26.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 11a, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 11a, 1894, par. 25

Jesus says, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their words; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they might be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent Me and the glory (the character) which Thou gavest Me, I have given them: that they may be one, even as We are one. I in them, and Thou in Me that they may be made perfect in one; that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” [John 17:20-23.]

9LtMs, Lt 11a, 1894, par. 26

How Jesus leads our minds out to take more and more extensive views of the privileges and advantages that have been provided for man in coming in close relationship with Christ! The believer may bear the testimony in his life and character that God loves the human agent who obeys His commands as He loves His own Son. How amazing is this statement—almost beyond all comprehension of the finite mind. Jesus says further, “I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them and I in them.” [Verse 26.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 47, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 47, 1902, par. 25

Christ’s last prayer before His trial was for the unity of His followers. He prayed for complete harmony. “That they may be one, even as we are one,” He said. [John 17:22.] O that the importance of this prayer might be stamped on our hearts. O that we might be influenced and controlled by the spirit of this prayer!

17LtMs, Ms 47, 1902, par. 26

“Neither pray I for these alone; but for them also which shall believe on me through their words; that they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may believe that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [Verses 20-23.]

17LtMs, Ms 47, 1902, par. 29

“That they may be one, even as we are one.” [John 17:22.] O that the church may be animated by the Spirit of Christ. Then would His prayer be answered. Upon the virtue of Christ’s sacrifice for us we are all agreed. His prayer for us is that we may be made perfect in one. Shall we, by doing the medical missionary work He has given us to do, make it possible for God to answer this prayer, or shall we, by discord and strife, make it of no avail? Shall we not, by co-operating with the divine agencies, enable God to answer this prayer?

17LtMs, Ms 47, 1902, par. 32

“I in them, and thou in me; that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent them, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also whom thou hast given me be with me where I am, that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me; for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee; but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it; that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verses 23-26.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]

MR No. 1094—Leaders to be Under the Discipline of God; Christ’s Power can Transform Human Nature

14MR 85.2

Jesus says: [John 17:20-23, quoted]. How Jesus leads our minds out to take more and more extensive views of the privileges and advantages that have been provided for man in coming in close relationship with Christ! The believer may bear the testimony in his life and character that God loves the human agent who obeys His commands as He loves His Son. How amazing is this statement—almost beyond the comprehension of the finite mind! Jesus says further, “I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them” [Verse 26].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 170, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 170, 1906, par. 4

“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me. ... O righteous Father, the world hath not known Thee: but I have known Thee, and these have known that Thou hast sent Me. And I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them and I in them.” [John 17:20-23, 25, 26.]

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Chapter 38—One with Christ in God

8T 239.5

“Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me: for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known Thee: but I have known Thee, and these have known that Thou hast sent Me. And I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them.” John 17:20-26.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

One With Christ in God

3TT 243.5

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 103, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 103, 1893, par. 19

“Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovest me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have know thee, and these have know that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [John 17:20-26.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 270, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 270, 1903, par. 13

“Father, I desire that they also whom Thou hast given Me be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me; for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world knew Thee not, but I knew Thee; and these knew that Thou didst send Me; and I made known unto them Thy name, and will make it known; that the love wherewith Thou lovedst Me may be in them, and I in them.” [John 17:20-26.]

John 17:21

Conflict and Courage

Unity in Diversity, October 9

CC 288.4

In order successfully to carry forward the work to which they had been called, these disciples, differing so widely in natural characteristics, in training, and in habits of life, needed to come into unity of feeling, thought, and action. This unity it was Christ’s object to secure.... The burden of His labor for them is expressed in His prayer to the Father, “that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us” (John 17:21).16Ibid., 86.

Reflecting Christ

Perfect Oneness Will Give Success, July 5

RC 200.1

That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. John 17:21.

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 7—Christ Holds Control

1SM 85.1

It was for this unity that Jesus prayed just before His trial, standing but a step from the cross. “That they all may be one;” He said, “as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me” (John 17:21).

Selected Messages Book 2

Spirit of Self-Denial of Early Days Required Now

2SM 189.4

It was for this unity that Jesus prayed just before His trial, standing but a step from the cross. “That they all may be one,” He said, “as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me” (John 17:21).—Letter 32, 1903.

Sons and Daughters of God

Christ Prayed That We All Might Be One, October 14

SD 294.1

That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. John 17:21.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9

Section 5—The Spirit of Unity [Portions of the tract, Special Testimonies, Series B, No. 4, are included in this section.]

“That they all may be one.” John 17:21.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

Unity

7T 156.3

Those who speak to the people through our periodicals should preserve unity among themselves. Nothing that savors of dissension should be found in our publications. Satan is always seeking to cause dissension, for well he knows that by this means he can most effectually counteract the work of God. We should not give place to his devices. Christ’s prayer for His disciples was: “That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” John 17:21. All true laborers for God will work in harmony with this prayer. In their efforts to advance the work all will manifest that oneness of sentiment and practice which reveals that they are God’s witnesses, that they love one another. To a world that is broken up by discord and strife, their love and unity will testify to their connection with heaven. It is the convincing evidence of the divine character of their mission.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

Present Truth with Gentleness

6T 401.1

Thus will the truth be brought into practical life, and thus will be answered the prayer of Christ, uttered just before His humiliation and death: “That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” John 17:21. The love of Christ, the love of our brethren, will testify to the world that we have been with Jesus and learned of Him. Then will the message of the third angel swell to a loud cry, and the whole earth will be lightened with the glory of the Lord.

That I May Know Him

Oneness With Christ and the Father, June 16

TMK 173.1

That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. John 17:21.

Counsels to Writers and Editors

Chapter 10—On Publishing Conflicting Views

CW 74.1

Unity of Utterance—Those who speak to the people through our periodicals should preserve unity among themselves. Nothing that savors of dissension should be found in our publications. Satan is always seeking to cause dissension, for well he knows that by this means he can most effectually counteract the work of God. We should not give place to his devices. Christ’s prayer for His disciples was, “That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” John 17:21. All true laborers for God will work in harmony with this prayer. In their efforts to advance the work, all will manifest that oneness of sentiment and practice which reveals that they are God’s witnesses, that they love one another. To a world that is broken up by discord and strife, their love and unity will testify to their connection with heaven. It is the convincing evidence of the divine character of their mission.—Testimonies for the Church 7:156, 157 (1902).

The Upward Look

Christ Calls for Unity, May 7

UL 141.1

That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. John 17:21.

The Publishing Ministry

Chapter 9—Quality Message Literature Needed

PM 96.5

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Our Day of Privilege

2TT 191.1

Let everyone seek to answer the prayer of Christ: “That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee.” Oh, what unity is this! and says Christ: “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 17:21; 13:35.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Influence of a United Soul-winning Church

2TT 263.1

We profess to be the depositaries of God’s law; we claim to have greater light and to aim at a higher standard than any other people upon the earth; therefore we should show greater perfection of character and more earnest devotion. A most solemn message has been entrusted to those who have received the light of present truth. Our light should shine forth to brighten the pathway of those who are in darkness. As members of the visible church, and workers in the vineyard of the Lord, all professed Christians should do their utmost to preserve peace, harmony, and love in the church. Mark the prayer of Christ: “That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” John 17:21. The unity of the church is the convincing evidence that God has sent Jesus into the world as its Redeemer. This is an argument which worldlings cannot controvert. Therefore Satan is constantly working to prevent this union and harmony, that unbelievers, by witnessing backsliding, dissension, and strife among professed Christians, may become disgusted with religion and be confirmed in their impenitence. God is dishonored by those who profess the truth while they are at variance and enmity with one another. Satan is the great accuser of the brethren, and all who engage in this work are enlisted in his service.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Unity

3TT 156.5

Homeward Bound

Truth Will Conquer the World, November 17

HB 350.1

As You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.—John 17:21.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 51a, 1878

3LtMs, Lt 51a, 1878, par. 28

“With what judgment ye judge ye shall be judged.” [Matthew 7:2.] We each have an individual case pending at the court of heaven. Your character is being weighed in the balance of the sanctuary, and it should be your earnest desire to walk humbly before God, being distrustful of yourself, jealous of yourself lest you fail to let your light shine forth to others, jealous lest you fail of the grace of God and lose everything that is of value. All dissension, all faultfinding and differences should be put away, with all evil speaking and bitterness; and kindness, love, compassion for one another should be cherished, that the prayer of Christ may be answered that His disciples may be one as He was one with the Father, “that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” [John 17:21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 1, 1882

3LtMs, Lt 1, 1882, par. 3

Christ prayed for oneness and unity among His disciples that the “world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [John 17:21.] The unity, peace, and harmony of the church are her credentials to the world of purity and of her genuine character. Satan has so worked by his artifice to introduce discord and dissension into the church that their claims to a high and holy character are not accepted by the world.

3LtMs, Lt 1, 1882, par. 74

There is a deadly hatred in hearts against the commandments of God, which is the basis of all reforms. How then can we unite with this class? How work with them? How form a society with them? How is it possible to work successfully in their way and after their order? Satan well knows that union and harmony in Christ are the most powerful, convincing arguments to unbelievers. Christ prayed [that] His disciples may be one as He is one with the Father, “that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [John 17:21.] While all heaven is interested in the salvation of men, and constantly ministering in their behalf that they may be one in mind and judgment and spirit, Satan is diligently at work to hinder this unity by sowing his seed of envy, suspicion, and strife, which will blossom into jealously and bitterness and discord, that the mighty, convincing credentials in the minds of the church, of the divinity of Christ, might be removed.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 76, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 76, 1893, par. 34

In the evening I spoke in the neat, commodious chapel, but there was only a small company out. Empty seats stared us in the face and testified that the right and essential work had not been done in that city by those who claimed to believe the truth. The burden of my message was to present before them the solemn responsibilities resting upon us to answer the prayer of Christ which He presented to His Father just prior to His leaving the disciples, and His crucifixion and death and ascension to heaven. He prayed that His disciples might be one as He was one with the Father. [John 17:21.] I spoke Thursday evening.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 103, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 103, 1894, par. 23

O, I wish that we had far greater wisdom in all things than we now have! One thing every worker in the vineyard of the Lord must learn, that is, their decision to practice the prayer of Christ, to move as one in Christ Jesus. Jesus prayed that His disciples might be one, as He is one with the Father. [John 17:21.] The enemy is at work, to divide, to scatter. Now as never before he will make determined efforts to scatter our forces. Above every other period it is unsafe now for us to move out in lines of our own. The truth for this time is broad in its outlines, far reaching, embracing many doctrines; but these doctrines are not detached items, which mean little; they are united by golden threads, forming a complete whole, with Christ as the living center. The truths we present from the Bible are as firm and immovable as the throne of God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 142, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 142, 1902, par. 7

Satan was once a beautiful and exalted angel. But he swerved from his allegiance, and as no soul could remain in heaven alienated from God, Satan and those who sympathized with him in his rebellion were thrust out of heaven. Shall we yield ourselves to sin because Satan chose to become envious and jealous? There is no excuse for sin. If an excuse for sin could be found, sin could not be condemned; for it would not then be sin. God’s purpose for us is that we shall be Christlike. The Saviour’s prayer for us is, “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee.” [John 17:21.] The Lord has made it possible for us to have clear, discerning minds, able to distinguish good from evil. He has promised to give all power to those who believe and trust in Him. He is the source of all strength, all efficiency. Those who are willing to receive His grace will have grace to communicate. Those who choose to pattern after men and women who follow the ways of the world must reap the result of their choice. Virtue of character is alone of worth in Christ’s sight.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 102, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 102, 1902, par. 10

God says, “A new heart will I give you.” [Ezekiel 36:26.] Every learner may be renewed in knowledge and true holiness. The ransom of an enslaved race was Christ’s purpose in coming to this earth. What a pity it is that human beings cannot discern their own weakness. What a pity that they enslave their souls by lifting themselves up unto vanity. Christ alone can make us free. And when He makes us free, we are free indeed. His power breaks the yoke of bondage that binds man to the great deceiver, the originator of sin. But how many there are who are unwilling to allow Christ to break their shackles. How many there are who choose to cling to the thralldom of sin. The gospel of Christ is truly believed only when it is practiced. Faith is justified by works. Self must be hid; Christ must appear as the chiefest among ten thousand, the One altogether lovely. When an unreserved surrender of the powers of body, mind, and soul is made to the Saviour, self no longer strives for the mastery. What man needs today is the crucifixion of self and the revelation in his life of Christ, the hope of glory. Then will be fulfilled the words, “Ye are the light of the world.” [Matthew 5:14.] Then will be answered the prayer, “That they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us.” [John 17:21.] In thought, word, and action, Christ’s followers will be an exemplification of godliness. An atmosphere of peace will surround them. Step by step let us follow on to know the Lord, treading in His footprints, striving to live His life. He says to His followers, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. ... Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:14, 16.] From the lives of God’s children, the bright light of purity, of honesty, of unselfishness, is to shine forth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 32, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 32, 1903, par. 22

It was for this unity that Jesus prayed just before His trial, standing but a step from the cross. “That they all may be one,” He said; “as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” [John 17:21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 297, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 297, 1905, par. 8

Let there be an entire surrender to God. It is your special wisdom to draw near to God. As you yield to Him, you will be surrounded with a heavenly, sanctified atmosphere. And as the light is revealed in your lives, unbelievers will be impressed with the power and truth of the gospel. Seek earnestly that there may be in the church such perfect unity as is revealed in the prayer of Christ: “That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” [John 17:21.] Put away all criticism one of another, all jealousy, all evil surmising. Let there not be among you one discordant note. Press together, press together in unity and love. A united communion with Christ will enable you to put forth efforts that will convince others of the truth.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]

MR No. 954—Study of Growth of Ellen White’s Theological Understanding

12MR 146.1

Gospel of Christ to Be Practiced—God says, “A new heart will I give you.” Every learner may be renewed in knowledge and true holiness. The ransom of an enslaved race was Christ’s purpose in coming to this earth. What a pity it is that human beings cannot discern their own weakness. What a pity that they enslave their souls by lifting themselves up unto vanity. Christ alone can make us free. And when He makes us free, we are free indeed. His power breaks the yoke of bondage that binds man to the great deceiver, the originator of sin. But how many there are who are unwilling to allow Christ to break their shackles. How many there are who choose to cling to the thraldom of sin. The gospel of Christ is truly believed only when it is practiced. Faith is justified by works. Self must be hid; Christ must appear as the chiefest among ten thousand, the One altogether lovely. When an unreserved surrender of the powers of body, mind, and soul is made to the Saviour, self no longer strives for the mastery. What man needs today is the crucifixion of self and the revelation in his life of Christ, the hope of glory. Then will be fulfilled the word, “Ye are the light of the world.” Then will be answered the prayer, “That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us” (John 17:21). In thought, word, and action, Christ’s followers will be an exemplification of godliness. An atmosphere of peace will surround them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 228, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, par. 18

Put not your trust in any human agency. Place no man where God should be. Let each worker seek the Lord for himself. The prayer of Christ for His disciples, when He was about to leave them, was not for the twelve alone, but for all who would believe on Him through their word, “that they all may be one, ... that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” [John 17:21.] It is the sanctified unity of God’s people that will give evidence to the worldlings that God has sent His Son into the world.

My Life Today

One With God Through Faith, January 7

ML 11.1

That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us. John 17:21.

Our Father Cares

Christ Calls for Unity, October 12

OFC 297.1

That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. John 17:21.

Our High Calling

United in Christ, June 13

OHC 170.1

That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. John 17:21.

John 17:21-22

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Chapter 97—To O. A. Olsen (cf. Lt 43, 1890)

1888 754.2

There is no need of despondency, of vain apprehension, if those who have an experience in and a knowledge of the truth will keep themselves beneath the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness, for the Lord is gracious and the prayer of Christ for His disciples was that they may be one as He was one with the Father. “That the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one” [John 17:21, 22].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 42a, 1878

3LtMs, Lt 42a, 1878, par. 4

What precious victories we might gain in the name of Jesus if we would be doers of the words of Christ! “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one for another.” John 13:35. Oh, how hard many make the Christian life! They climb the steep, briary path, staggering under imposed burdens, as though they must tinker up the characters of others. They make the way to heaven very hard. They do not experience the sweet peace of Christ. They do not grasp the help Jesus gives them, but they are continually grieving over supposed wrongs of others and overlook the cheering, blessed tokens for good all along their pathway. Just as soon as one has a vivid and all-absorbing consciousness of his own personal accountability to God and of his duty to his fellow men, and senses that his influence is far-reaching, stretching into eternity, he will not be satisfied with a low standard, he will not be faultfinding and critical of others. He will make his own life what he would wish the lives of others to be. He will live only in Christ, utterly and wholly dependent on Him for every beauty and loveliness of character. This is the burden of my labor—to get the minds of the people away from envy, jealousy, evil surmising. I try to impress upon them their duty to answer in their own lives the prayer of Christ, that His disciples may be one, even as He is one with the Father. This blessed oneness, this unity of believers, is the credential we bear to the world that God has sent His Son. “That they may be one, even as We are one, that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” [John 17:22, 21.] What joy would it bring to my heart if this sweet unity prevailed. If self would be overcome, all wrath, all bitterness, all malice, all contention and evil speaking be put away from Christ’s followers. Self wants the supremacy. Self is struggling for the mastery. If the professed followers of Christ would only follow Him, if they would only humble themselves under the hand of God, what a work might be accomplished!

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 43a, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 43a, 1890, par. 15

There is no need of despondency, of vain apprehension, if those who have an experience in and a knowledge of the truth will keep themselves beneath the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness, for the Lord is gracious and the prayer of Christ for His disciples was that they may be one as He was one with the Father. “That the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one” [John 17:21, 22].

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Divine Counselor, May 9

JNN 140.3

John 17:21-23

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 68a, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 68a, 1893, par. 44

When the soul is brought into harmony with Christ, we will be one. “That they all may be one as Thou, Father, art in Me and I in You, that they may be one in us. ... I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved Me [them] as Thou as loved them [Me].” [John 17:21, 23.] This is a union that does not embrace one person or two or three persons, to the exclusion of others. All the advance steps in the Christian life lead to this love for all who believe in Jesus Christ.

Education

Chapter 9—An Illustration of His Methods

Ed 86.1

In order successfully to carry forward the work to which they had been called, these disciples, differing so widely in natural characteristics, in training, and in habits of life, needed to come into unity of feeling, thought, and action. This unity it was Christ’s object to secure. To this end He sought to bring them into unity with Himself. The burden of His labor for them is expressed in His prayer to the Father, “that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: ... that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” John 17:21-23.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 56, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 56, 1895, par. 3

There is a consolidation these men can enter into with safety. Christ speaks. Hear what He says: “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: he that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” John 15:4, 5; verses 6-13, 15; John 17:21-23.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 12a, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 12a, 1901, par. 6

“And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are One: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hath loved them as Thou hast loved Me.” John 17:21-23.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 170, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 170, 1902, par. 3

Christ says plainly that it is by the unity and co-operation of His followers that the world is to know that God has sent His Son into the world. In the prayer that He offered for His disciples just before His crucifixion, He said: “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:21-23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 23, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 23, 1906, par. 21

“That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one; I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” [John 17:21-23.]

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Greatest Educator, April 6

JNN 106.4

In order successfully to carry forward the work to which they had been called, these disciples, differing so widely in natural characteristics, in training, and in habits of life, needed to come into unity of feeling, thought, and action. This unity it was Christ’s object to secure. To this end He sought to bring them into unity with Himself. The burden of His labor for them is expressed in His prayer to the Father, “that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us ... that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me” (John 17:21-23).—Education, 85, 86.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 2 [Nos. 97-161]

MR No. 122—Christ To Be Supreme; Counsel on Camp Meetings

2MR 162.2

In Africa, in this, and all other countries, every soul must understand that in order to work in Christ’s lines in word, in councils, and in plans, he must keep the prayer of Christ before him: “That they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me” [John 17:21-23]....

This Day With God

Have You Passed From Death to Life? September 22

TDG 274.3

If there is not that perfect harmony existing between us, we should not feel that we ourselves are not at all to blame in the matter. If another’s thoughts and feelings are not in the same channel as our own, we should not feel that they are all wrong and we are right. We want to constantly keep the mind at the right point, to answer the prayer of Christ in John 17:21-23. We want to know what is the yoke Christ bids us take and the burdens we are to carry at this time, and constantly seek in kindness and love to show our brother that we have an interest in him, and bring love into our actions day by day. This is the gold tried in the fire—faith and love. If we see one in error on any point we should not pass along and say nothing, but we must try to bring him out from darkness into light. We must guard each other’s interests as we do our own. We do not value the soul as we should. We ought to be united in one great brotherhood and be in that place where we can bear with the faults of one another with all longsuffering and meekness, and seek to bear one another’s burdens. (See Ephesians 5:1, 2.)

From Trials to Triumph

No “Wall” Between Jews and Gentiles

TT 13.4

These first disciples represented widely varied types of character. Differing in natural characteristics, they needed to come into unity. To this end Christ sought to bring them into unity with Himself. His burden for them was expressed in His prayer to His Father, “That they all may be one; ... that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” John 17:21-23. He knew that truth would conquer in the battle with evil, and that the blood-stained banner would one day wave triumphantly over His followers.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 13, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 13, 1886, par. 3

If there is not that perfect harmony existing between us, we should not feel that we ourselves are not at all to blame in the matter. If another’s thoughts and feelings are not in the same channel as our own, we should not feel that they are all wrong and we are right. We want to constantly keep the mind at the right point, to answer the prayer of Christ in John 17:21-23. We want to know what is the yoke Christ bids us take, and the burdens we are to carry at this time, and constantly seek in kindness and love to show our brother that we have an interest in him and bring love into our actions day by day. This is the gold tried in the fire—faith and love. If we see one in error on any point, we should not pass along and say nothing, but we must try to bring him out from darkness into light. We must guard each other’s interests as we do our own. We do not value the soul as we should. We ought to be united in one great brotherhood and be in that place where we can bear with the faults of one another with all longsuffering and meekness and seek to bear one another’s burdens. Ephesians 5:1, 2.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 10a, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 10a, 1892, par. 17

Shall we not labor most decidedly for unity and love, considering our advantages in the delightful words spoken by Christ in John 17:21-23?—“That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” This truth has long been shining upon us. We are under condemnation because our works and character have not corresponded with the truth.

John 17:21-26

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 4, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 4, 1902, par. 5

Christ and God have a work to do for you which you cannot do. But it is your work to take special pains to think and to bear in mind, I am fearfully and wonderfully made. An active conscience and correct judgment are essential on your part. A healthy body is necessary for a healthy mind. Do your part, which the Lord has assigned you, to preserve the laws of life and health. Christ is our life, just as in the body the life is in the blood. Christ abiding in the soul is the life blood of the soul. He is made unto us wisdom and righteousness and sanctification, as well as our redemption. There is no part of the spiritual being but [that] Christ is the living supply. Galatians 5:22. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” [Verses 22, 23.] “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” [Verse 25.] Ephesians 5:9. “For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth. Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.” [Verses 9, 10.] Christ is to us all and in all. Is not Christ in us the hope of glory? Is not the abiding presence of Christ in the soul life, as the blood dwells and moves in the veins? <Christ is> the source and pledge of our joy and glory and hope? “As thou, Father, art in me and I in thee.” <He prays,> “That they also may be one in us: ... I in them and thou in me, ... that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [John 17:21, 23, 26.] The blood is formed in the body from the food eaten. So Christ is formed in us from eating His flesh and drinking His blood.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 25, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 25, 1902, par. 35

The mystical union of Christ with His church has a greater influence than the church herself realizes. Listen to Christ’s prayer for His disciples: “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee: that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me; for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee; but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it, that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [John 17:21-26.]

John 17:22

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 98a, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 98a, 1897, par. 33

Every effort should be made to clear the guiltless from evil surmisings, evil-speaking, and false accusations. Every true child of God should be willing to view the case of his brother or sister correctly, and look at all the facts as they are, for the Lord would have unity jealously preserved. Christ prayed that His disciples might be one with Him, as He was one with the Father. [John 17:22.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 168, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 168, 1902, par. 5

Christ, in His prayer to the Father, says, “The glory which thou gavest me I have given them.” [John 17:22.] His disciples in this time are to pray for the sick, as verily as did His disciples of old. And the sick will recover; for “the prayer of faith shall save the sick.” [James 5:15.] Christ is ready to give His disciples special earnestness in offering effectual, fervent prayers and special experiences in answer to these petitions.

The Upward Look

The Need for Unity, May 15

UL 149.1

And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one. John 17:22.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 24, 1892

7LtMs, Ms 24, 1892, par. 13

Christ prayed that His disciples might be one even as He and His Father are one. [John 17:22.] In what does this unity consist? This oneness does not exist because every one has the same disposition, the same temperament, and thinks in the very same channel. All do not possess the same degree of intelligence. All have not the same experience.

John 17:22-23

God’s Amazing Grace

What Is God’s Glory? November 10

AG 322.4

Christ desires His followers to reveal in their lives this same character. In His intercessory prayer for His disciples He declared: “The glory [character] which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me” (John 17:22, 23).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 67, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 67, 1894, par. 31

Christ prayed to His Father saying, “The glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.] Those who are stimulated by the love of Jesus will all be drawn to the great Center, to contemplate the wondrous sacrifice that has been made for them. They will all be filled with soul-hunger, and will search out the hidden treasures of truth, sinking the shaft of inquiry deep into the mine of truth, that the precious ore may be discovered. They will look into those depths into which the angels desired to look. They will be constrained by the love of Christ to form characters after the divine similitude, in order that they may bear intelligent credentials to the world, and persuade men to believe that God has sent His Son into the world, “that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 15, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 15, 1894, par. 28

In His last prayer for them He says, “The glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know (through their perfection in Christ Jesus) that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.] Oh, what privileges we are called to enjoy! And to what sacrifice and humiliation did the Son of the infinite God condescend to in order that man might be elevated! He stooped to one humiliation after another, until we behold Him, the Victim upon the cross, crucified between two thieves, making it impossible for Him to descend lower.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 54, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 54, 1895, par. 13

All who before the universe of heaven are adjudged to have in Christ endured the penalty of the law, and in Him fulfilled its righteousness, will have eternal life. They will be one in character with Christ. His prayer for His followers will be fulfilled: “The glory (character) which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.] Shall we not strive to form characters after the divine similitude? Shall we not here be conformed to the image of Christ? O that God would give us divine perception to comprehend the breadth and length, the depth and height, and to know the love of Christ that passeth knowledge, that we might be filled with all the fullness of God! Then would man look upon his fellow men as God’s own purchased possession. He would keep his own soul in the love of God, and would not undertake to lord it over God’s heritage.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 55, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 55, 1895, par. 11

“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth.” [John 1:12-14.] These words are written of Christ. He is our representative before the Father. Whatsoever was given to Christ—the “all things” to supply every need of fallen man—was given to Him as the head and representative of humanity. Who will be the receivers of eternal life? All who before the universe of heaven are adjudged to have in Christ endured the penalty of the law, and in Him fulfilled its righteousness. We are to be one in character with Christ. He said, “The glory (character) which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.] Mark these words.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 142, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 142, 1896, par. 5

Yet, with all there is to do, there must be a calm trust in Him who hath given us our work. We are co-laborers with God. We have not a moment to spend carelessly, not a dollar to spend for that which is not bread. I know if we yoke up with Christ what is the result-peace and rest in the Holy Spirit. If we walk alone, without Jesus, it is nothingness as far as the good we can do. Then, my dear son whom I bear on my heart, and daughter Emma, hide in Jesus. You may be one with Jesus. “And the glory [character] which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 121, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 121, 1898, par. 11

When Abraham was ninety years old, the Lord appeared unto him, and said, “I am the Almighty God. Walk before me, and be thou perfect.” [Genesis 17:1.] If we had that perfect love, think ye we should be disagreeing and disunited as a people? This disunion takes the heart out of me. The Word must be received with such thoroughness that Christ has said, “And the glory (character) which thou hast given me, I have given them, that they may be one, even as we are one.” If there were no defects in our characters, we would be one, “I in them, and they in me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 143, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 143, 1899, par. 20

His promise to the children of men is, “I will pray the Father, and he will give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever.” [John 14:16.] His dwelling place is in every locality where men are seeking with honest hearts to do His work. “The glory that thou gavest me, I have given them,” Christ prayed, “that they may be one, even as we are one. I in them, and thou in me: that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.] The eternal Father is waiting for us to take our eyes off finite men, and place our dependence in God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 96, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 96, 1901, par. 11

I know that God will be with His people. He is the great Worker. We must be true and faithful, as the right hand of God. “We are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Let there be no murmuring, no faultfinding, no jealousy. Christ’s prayer for His disciples was that they might be one, even as He is one with the Father. “The glory which thou gavest me,” He said, “I have given them, that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.]

Our Father Cares

Matchless Love, September 16

OFC 271.1

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 56, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 56, 1903, par. 1

“And the glory which Thou gavest Me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one; I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them as Thou hast loved Me.” [John 17:22, 23.]

The Upward Look

The Unity Christ Is Looking For, September 14

UL 271.4

This Day With God

Matchless Love, July 12

TDG 202.1

John 17:22-24

The Paulson Collection of Ellen G. White Letters

February 6, 1894

PC 105.5

My son, walk humbly with God. Your power and efficiency are in Jesus. The mighty tide of spiritual power will come upon the men who preach the word, uplifting Jesus. This inspires in the hearer a living faith, which brings forth fruit abundantly. We want the truth spoken to human hearts by men that have been baptized with holy love for Christ, and for the purchase of His blood, men who are themselves thoroughly impressed with the truth they are presenting to others; and who are practicing the same in their own life. The word of God is sure, and every speaker should seek to link the hearer to Christ (read John 17:22-24; Ephesians 1:3-8).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 102, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 102, 1894, par. 21

My son, walk humbly with God. Your power and efficiency are in Jesus. The mighty tide of spiritual power will come upon the men who preach the Word, uplifting Jesus. This inspires in the hearer a living faith, which brings forth fruit abundantly. We want the truth spoken to human hearts by men that have been baptized with holy love for Christ, and for the purchase of His blood, men who are themselves thoroughly impressed with the truth they are presenting to others; and who are practicing the same in their own life. The Word of God is sure, and every speaker should seek to link the hearer to Christ read John 17:22-24; Ephesians 1:3-8.

9LtMs, Lt 102, 1894, par. 23

And we are to be sharers in His glory, for Christ says, “The glory which thou givest Me I have given them.” [John 17:22.] What is that glory? The character of Christ, Can we ask any greater endowment? To have any place in heaven, to be in the presence of Christ, seems a blessing too great for sinful human beings to enjoy. But the marvelous mercy and goodness and love of God are beyond our comprehension. By accepting Christ as his personal Saviour, man is brought into the same close relation to God, and enjoys His special favor as does His own beloved Son. He is honored and glorified and intimately associated with God, his life being hid with Christ in God. O what love, what wondrous love! (Read the Scripture referred to. [My] copiest left them out for want of time.)

John 17:22-26

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 45, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 45, 1893, par. 34

I leave this matter with you, for I have been worried and troubled in regard to the dangers that assail all in Battle Creek, lest they shall move indiscreetly and give the enemy advantage. This need not be, for if we walk humbly with God, we shall walk safely and bear in mind the words of Jesus Christ, “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:14.] “This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [Verse 12.] “And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one even as we are one; I in them and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and (mark the words) that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.] Blessed, Blessed utterance! Will we believe the words of Jesus? Will we practice His words? If we do, we shall see for greater results, than we have hitherto seen. Oh, we shall be filled with all the fullness of God. We shall possess a power that shall resist every device of the enemy.

8LtMs, Lt 45, 1893, par. 35

Let us then bring the lessons of Christ into our practical life, and we shall then realize the fulfillment of the prayer of Christ in all its specifications, “And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it; that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verse 26.] Let the mind embrace the largeness of the promise, and contemplate the rich fullness that is expressed. There is no excuse for unbelief.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 56, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 56, 1900, par. 30

In His prayer to the Father, Christ says of His followers, “The glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.] O, what possibilities and probabilities are for God’s people if they will humble themselves and exalt the Lord Jesus.

15LtMs, Ms 56, 1900, par. 31

In His prayer the Saviour says further, “Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hast not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verses 24-26.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 146, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 146, 1899, par. 16

Christ’s prayer for His followers was, “The glory which thou gavest me, I have given them: that they may be one, even as we are one. I in them, and thou in me: that they may be made perfect in one: and that the world may believe that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am: That they may behold thy glory which thou hast given me; for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [John 17:22-26.] When God’s people work together harmoniously and intelligently, Christ’s request to the Father for them will be fulfilled.

John 17:23

Christ Triumphant

Jesus in the Heart, February 13

CTr 50.1

I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. John 17:23.

The Upward Look

Oneness With Christ, May 19

UL 153.1

I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. John 17:23.

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“When ye pray, say, Our Father.”—Luke 11:2.

MB 104.1

Here is the announcement of that wonderful truth, so full of encouragement and comfort, that God loves us as He loves His Son. This is what Jesus said in His last prayer for His disciples, Thou “hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” John 17:23.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Enoch, September 1

YRP 253.5

This is the privilege of every believer today. It is man dwelling with God, and God taking up His abode with man. “I in them, and thou in me” (John 17:23), says Jesus. To walk with God and have the witness that their ways please Him is an experience not to be confined to Enoch, to Elijah, to patriarchs, to prophets, to apostles, and to martyrs. It is not only the privilege but the duty of every follower of Christ to have Jesus enshrined in the heart, to carry Him with them in their lives; and they will indeed be fruit-bearing trees.—The Upward Look, 228.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 1

Preparation for Christ’s Coming Talk at the Ministers’ Meeting Kansas camp meeting May 14, 1889

1SAT 104.1

We want to learn in the school of Christ meekness and lowliness of heart, and from whom are we to learn these lessons? Jesus says, “I am meek and lowly of heart.” “Learn of Me.” Now, if there is anything in us like self, then Christ cannot dwell there. We want to represent Christ to the world. We must have self hid with Christ in God, and when this is the case we will represent Christ to the world. Oh, there is something wonderful about it—He loves us as He loves His Son [see John 17:23]. Just think of it—loves us as He does His Son! This is wonderful, wonderful. In Him we have all heaven presented to us, and the more we see in Jesus the less we see that is good in self.

Heaven

Chapter 10—Who Will Be There?

Hvn 85.3

Those Who Come to God in Faith—God justly condemns all who do not make Christ their personal Saviour; but He pardons every soul who comes to Him in faith, and enables him to work the works of God, and through faith to be one with Christ. Jesus says of these, “I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one [this unity brings perfection of character]; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me” (John 17:23).

With God at Dawn

Christ Loves Us as the Father Loves Him, February 4

WGD 37.1

I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. John 17:23.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 4, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 4, 1891, par. 15

“I in them, and them in me, that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that thou has sent me, and hast loved them as thou has loved me.” [John 17:23.] What statement could be made to comprehend more than this prayer takes in? We see what God is prepared to do for us; and we are to despair of nothing—hope and believe in everything that will give the human agency efficiency through Christ Jesus only, for we are dependent upon the agency of God. We are commanded to do unto others as we would that they would do unto us. He lays <before us> the position we <should> occupy toward the world, and our relative duty toward the world, as His ordained agencies to represent Christ and to impress them with a sense of their accountability to God.

In Heavenly Places

How Much Does God Love Us? February 21

HP 58.1

I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. John 17:23.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 13, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 13, 1892, par. 30

We may stand close to the side of Jesus. Let none in his pride of self opinion shirk one hard lesson or lose the blessing of one hard discipline. Humble yourselves under the hand of God, warn all that they do not in stubbornness choose their own way and act like undisciplined, untrained children. Whatever be our condition in life, our business, we have a sure Guide. He is our Counselor. Whatever be our loneliness, He is our Friend in Whom we may ever trust. When voices on every hand are heard to lead us to wander away into false paths, there is a voice that is true that is heard, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” [John 14:6.] You may stop your contention over little items and differences. “Believe in me; I am the true Shepherd.” [John 14:1; 10:11.] “I and my Father are one. I in them, and they in me.” [John 10:30; John 17:23.] “And that the world may believe that thou hast sent me and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [Verse 23.]