As we take a deep dive into Jesus' high priestly prayer in John 17 this week, we'll

discover together the deep desires of the heart of God.

Today, we explore Jesus' desire to be known by His people.

Isn't it amazing to think the God of the universe desires to be known intimately

by you and me? What a beautiful blessing and gift he desires to give each of us. But we take hold of

this gift and experience it fully today as we take a closer look. Welcome to the first of teen

podcast. Our scripture today comes from John 173. In it Jesus says, and this is eternal life, that they know you the only

true God and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. In John 173, Jesus states one of the most important

and direct truths in all of his high priestly prayer. Jesus says, and this is eternal

life, that they know you the only true God in Jesus Christ whom you have sent. Eternal life is

knowing God intimately, not just knowing about God, knowing of God, or knowing others who know God,

but truly knowing Him yourself. To be clear, consistently

meeting with God directly is not a prerequisite for salvation. I can confidently say that I was

saved as a young child, but it took years for me to discover the wealth of relationship available to me through Jesus.

I went to church, heard about God, served him, and tried to live according to biblical

principles, but I didn't really know the God I was spending so many hours devoted to.

I hadn't really received his love for me. I hadn't experienced the peace and joy of his

presence. I hadn't felt him speak to me or guide me directly. I wasn't experiencing the abundant

life that only comes from personal, intimate relationship with my father. The truth is that God

longs to be known by you. Jesus didn't die for the

sole purpose of getting you to heaven. He sacrificed his life that you might truly live while here on

earth. You were created to intimately know that God who formed you, saved you, and sustains you. And you will never

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