“As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.” (John 17:18)
Expanded Passage: John 17:18-21
Packages. Emails. Facebook messages. Football passes. GPS signals. Satellites. Astronauts to outer space. What do these all have in common?
They are all things that are sent. Shared by the giver with an intended receiver.
In verses 18–21 of Jesus’ prayer, there is reflection about sending. Jesus was sent into the world and now is sending his disciples into the world. And this doesn’t just stay with the original disciples; this sending is a mandate to Christ followers of today. In John 17:20, Jesus said, “I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message.” This refers to the generations upon generations upon generations who now know and experience Christ. This is all because of the domino effect that occurred when the disciples dispersed and shared this news with those in their hometowns and spheres of influence.
Today, how intentional are we about knowing and going to share this truth with others in our neighborhoods, schools, classrooms, businesses, or workplaces?
As people who are sent, we first need to receive truth and be ready to purposefully proclaim the message we’ve been entrusted with. That’s part of the adventurous life’s journey! Today, will we sit as a stamped envelope on the counter with potential? Or will we be postmarked and sent to deliver the truth to the anticipated recipient?
Allow God to set you up to be sent.
Sarah Grace was discipled in The Wesleyan Church in the Western New York region. She enjoys camping, music, and being outdoors in all seasons.
© 2025 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
