John 17:9-16

1. We learn that the Lord Jesus does things for His believing people which He does not do for the wicked and unbelieving.
2. We learn that Christ does not wish His believing people to be taken out of the world, but to be kept from the evil of it.

"This special intercession of the Lord Jesus is one great secret of the safety of all believers. They are daily watched, thought of and provided for with unfailing care, by One who never slumbers and never sleeps."

"To abide here in this vale of tears, tried, tempted, assaulted and yet kept from falling into sin, is the surest plan to promote the sanctification of Christians and to glorify Christ. To go to heaven at once in the day of conversion would doubtless be an easy course and would save us much trouble. But the easiest course is not always the path of duty. The one who would win the crown must carry the cross and show themselves light in the midst of darkness and salt in the midst of corruption."

Questions:

1. Jesus declares that he prays for his disciples and not for the world. Ryle points out that this is a particularly hated doctrine by the world, but one that should be of particular comfort for believers. And so, we need to ask ourselves: am I leaning on this truth that Jesus is praying for me? Is this a great comfort to me?
2. Jesus prays that his people be kept from evil, but not taken out of the world of evil. Ryle points out that to abide here in this vale, tried, tempted, assaulted, and yet kept from falling into sin, is the surest plan to promote the sanctification of Christians and glorify Christ. Whatever trial we are going through, are we able to trust that God knows better than us? Do we pray to be kept from temptation and delivered from evil?