What Jesus Did! 'Disciple Time' — John 11:54

Monday, August 17, 2026

[Since the Jewish leaders were plotting his death,] Jesus stopped his public ministry among the people and left Jerusalem. He went to a place near the wilderness, to the village of Ephraim, and stayed there with his disciples.
— John 11:54 NLT

Key Thought

In all four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John), we learn that the last part of Jesus' ministry is specifically focused on teaching and preparing his disciples for his return to the Father. Many in the crowd turn away, and the determination of his opponents to kill him is growing. Jesus recognizes that he has a short time to complete the preparation of his disciples for his departure and for the responsibilities and ministries they will have in his absence physically. Despite Jesus' example, many of us fail to share our vision and our ministries with others who can help us take advantage of the opportunities that God is giving us now and who can carry the ministries on after we are gone. Let's learn from Jesus' example of the vital importance of sharing our visions, dreams, and ministries with others while we still have time.

Today's Prayer

Father of grace and mercy, thank you for giving me the abilities that I have and the opportunities to use them for your glory and for the work of your Kingdom. Open my eyes, dear Father, to those around me with whom I can share the passion, understanding, and ministry opportunities you have given me. In Jesus' name, I ask it. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

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Illustration

Illustration of John 11:54 NLT — He went to a place near the wilderness, to the village of Ephraim, and stayed there with his disciples.

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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