S – I am not praying that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world

John 17:15–16 CSB

O – Commentary:

God’s plan was not to remove the disciples from danger and opposition (take them out of the world) but to preserve them in the midst of conflict. Though Jesus would soon be taken out of the world (v. 11), His followers are to remain in it. Like Daniel in Babylon (Dan. 1–2; 4–6) and the saints in Caesar’s household (Phil. 4:22), God intends for His followers to be witnesses to truth in the midst of satanic falsehood. Satan, the evil one (cf. Matt. 5:37; 1 John 5:19), as head of the world system, seeks to do everything possible to destroy believers (cf. Rev. 2:10; 12:10) but God’s plan will prevail. Christians must not take themselves out of the world but remain in meaningful contact with it, trusting in God’s protection while they witness for Jesus.

17:16–17. Just as Jesus did not belong to the satanic world system (I am not of it; cf. v. 14), so believers do not. They belong to the heavenly kingdom (Col. 1:13) because of their new births

 “John,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures

A – Believers are part of the world to be a light and show the love of God to others.  In that journey, God will protect us from the enemy’s schemes.  This is where we grow in the spirit realm while living in the physical realm.

R – Heavenly Father, we are in awe of you.  Empower us today to do your will and stand strong against the plans of the evil one.  We know you are with us.  Give us your strength and courage to honor you and love others.