John Seventeen marks a pivotal moment in the Gospel narrative, presenting a profound and intimate prayer of Jesus to God the Father just before his arrest and crucifixion. This chapter is not merely a historical account; it’s a theological cornerstone revealing deep truths about Jesus’ relationship with the Father, his mission, his disciples, and all future believers. This prayer, often referred to as the High Priestly Prayer, encapsulates the essence of Jesus’ ministry and his desires for his followers.
Jesus Prays for His Glorification
The prayer begins with Jesus seeking glorification from the Father. “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you.” (John 17:1). This isn’t a request born out of personal vanity but a plea for the Father to reveal His glory through the Son’s impending sacrifice and resurrection. Jesus recognizes that the “hour” of his ultimate mission—redemption of humanity—has arrived. He acknowledges the authority granted to him by the Father “over all people, that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him.” (John 17:2). Eternal life, as defined here, is deeply relational: “that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” (John 17:3). Jesus reflects on his earthly ministry, stating, “I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.” (John 17:4). Now, he looks forward, requesting to be glorified with the Father, with the glory he shared “before the world began.” (John 17:5). This opening section highlights the divine partnership between the Father and the Son, and the glorification of Jesus as integral to God’s plan.
A Prayer for His Disciples
Moving beyond his personal glorification, Jesus turns his attention to his disciples. “I have revealed you to those whom you gave me out of the world.” (John 17:6). He emphasizes that these disciples were given to him by the Father and have been faithful to God’s word. Jesus’ prayer for them is not for worldly success or comfort, but for their protection and unity. “Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one.” (John 17:11). He knows they will face challenges and hatred from the world because they are not “of the world” just as he is not “of the world.” (John 17:14, 16). He prays for their sanctification through truth, stating, “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” (John 17:17). Jesus understands his role in sending them into the world, just as the Father sent him, “As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.” (John 17:18). This section underscores the importance of discipleship, the challenges disciples face, and the crucial need for unity and protection grounded in God’s truth.
Jesus’ Prayer for All Believers
Expanding the scope of his prayer even further, Jesus prays not only for his current disciples but also “for those who will believe in me through their message.” (John 17:20). This inclusive prayer encompasses all future Christians. The central theme remains unity: “that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.” (John 17:21). This unity mirrors the divine unity within the Trinity, a profound and aspirational goal for believers. Jesus desires that this unity will be a powerful witness to the world, “so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” (John 17:21). He has given believers the glory he received from the Father, “that they may be one as we are one.” (John 17:22). Ultimately, Jesus’ deepest desire is for believers to be with him and witness his glory: “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory.” (John 17:24). The prayer concludes with Jesus reiterating his mission to make the Father known, ensuring that “the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.” (John 17:26). This final section broadens the impact of Jesus’ prayer to encompass all believers throughout history, emphasizing unity, love, and the ultimate vision of being with Christ and beholding his glory.
In conclusion, john seventeen offers a powerful glimpse into the heart of Jesus as he prepares for his ultimate sacrifice. His prayer is a testament to his deep love for the Father, his commitment to his disciples, and his expansive vision for all who would believe. The themes of glorification, unity, protection, and truth resonate deeply, providing guidance and encouragement for Christians today. Studying john seventeen allows believers to grasp the profound desires of Jesus for their lives and the world.
