Citizens, "In But Not Of"

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Summary

As we begin our 2021 Vision series, C.J. reminds us why our church is called Citizens. In John 17, Jesus prays for his disciples very specifically -- "I ask not that they be removed from the world." And here we are, in the world, but not of the world. What does this mean for us?

Text

John 17:14–21

[14] I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. [15] I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. [16] They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. [17] Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. [18] As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. [19] And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.

[20] “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, [21] that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. (ESV)