“They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.” (John 17:16 NASB)
That was Jesus talking to His Father about His disciples. “Not of the world.” That is a powerful statement about those who are Christ’s disciples. The power is not of this world and neither are those who believe the truth. They are set apart and made holy (sanctified) by believing in Christ, who is the truth. “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.” (John 17:17NASB)
Think about that for a moment. Are you a disciple? If you are, then here are our marching orders. The ones Jesus told His Father that He gave to His disciples. “As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world.” (John 17:18NASB) That should not surprise you, that is why Jesus has disciples. He sends them with the truth. They are living vessels who abide in His word.
Because they believe the word of God, the Word of God changes them. Set apart and made holy, fit for the task of telling the truth. Jesus suffered at the hands of those who hated the truth. He went all the way expressing the Father’s love. And He did it for those who would believe and become His disciples. “For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth.” (John 17:19NASB)
We have been saved to glorify our Father. Jesus sends us out into the world to do this. Our task is to simple tell of His love and mercy for those who would believe.
His Family Table 