“I Do Not Pray That You Should Take Them Out of the World”

Have you ever taken a moment to seriously reflect on Jesus’ prayer in John 17?

John 17:14-15 (NKJV):
“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. I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one.”

In this intimate prayer—often called the High Priestly Prayer—Jesus speaks to the Father on behalf of His followers. He acknowledges a crucial truth: once we have received God’s word and believed in Christ, we no longer belong to this world. Our values, identity, and eternal home are in heaven (Philippians 3:20). However, despite this truth, Jesus does not ask the Father to remove us from the world. Instead, He asks for protection from the evil one—Satan.

That may seem surprising. If heaven is our true home and the world is full of sin and opposition, wouldn’t it make sense for God to take us there as soon as we believe? Humanly speaking, we would think so. But Jesus deliberately prays the opposite. He wants us to remain here—for a purpose.

Why Are We Still in the World?

Imagine being placed in a household that operates completely differently from yours. You don’t share the same beliefs, values, or even basic habits. Naturally, you’d want to leave and return to your own home. But instead, you’re told to stay there—for a reason. That’s what Jesus is asking of His followers: to remain in a world that doesn’t accept us, doesn’t understand us, and sometimes even hates us (John 15:18–19).

This isn’t a punishment. It’s a mission.

Matthew 5:14-16 (NKJV):
“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden… Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

God has placed His people in the world to shine His light, share His truth, and reflect His character. We are ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). That means we’re not just surviving here—we’re representing His kingdom while we’re still on earth.

When God Doesn’t Move You

You may be a Christian working in an ungodly environment—surrounded by gossip, mockery, or even open sin. You’ve probably prayed, “Lord, please give me a new job where I can be with fellow believers.” But sometimes, those prayers aren’t answered in the way or time we expect.

When that happens, remember Jesus’ words:

“I do not pray that You should take them out of the world…”

God may have a purpose for keeping you right where you are. Your presence may be the only light some people will ever see. Your kindness, integrity, and words of hope might be the only Bible some people will ever read (2 Corinthians 3:2-3).

Biblical Examples

Think about Daniel. He was taken from Jerusalem and placed in Babylon—a center of pagan worship and idolatry. Everything around him opposed the God of Israel. But Daniel remained faithful. He didn’t run away or hide. He lived boldly and righteously, and through him, even kings came to recognize the power of the true God (Daniel 6:25-27).

What Should You Do While You’re Still Here?

If you’re feeling weary of this world, that’s understandable. Paul once wrote:

Philippians 1:23-24 (NKJV):
“For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you.”

While heaven is our ultimate hope, our time on earth still matters. God has work for us to do:

Share the gospel (Matthew 28:19–20)
Encourage others (Hebrews 10:24–25)
Endure trials with faith (James 1:12)
Reflect Christ in all you do (Colossians 3:17)

Even when life is hard, God is using you—right where you are.

Conclusion: Shine Where You Stand

Yes, we are not of this world. Yes, we long for heaven. But Jesus didn’t ask the Father to take us out of the world—He asked Him to keep us from the evil one and to send us into the world as lights and witnesses.