John 17:1-3 is about Jesus praying to God before his crucifixion, expressing that eternal life is to know God and Jesus Christ whom He sent.
1 When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you,
2 since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him.
3 And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.
Setting the Scene for John 17:1-3
In John chapter 17, we find Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane with his disciples. The scene is set late at night, with the moon casting a soft glow over the olive trees and the Mount of Olives in the background. The disciples are gathered around Jesus, their faces reflecting a mix of confusion, fear, and reverence as they listen to his words.
Jesus, knowing that his time on earth is coming to an end, begins to pray to the Father. His voice is filled with emotion as he speaks of the glory that is to come and the unity he shares with the Father. The disciples, tired from the events of the day, listen intently as Jesus prays for them, asking for their protection and sanctification.
As the night grows darker, the atmosphere in the garden becomes charged with a sense of impending doom. The disciples, though they may not fully understand the significance of the moment, can sense that something momentous is about to happen. And in the midst of this tension, Jesus continues to pray, his words a mixture of love, hope, and surrender to the will of the Father.
What is John 17:1-3 about?
Jesus in this verse is expressing his deepest desires: to be glorified by God and to grant eternal life to those who believe in him. Jesus is affirming his humble nature and his dependency on God to fulfill his purpose on Earth by asking for glorification. This prayer highlights the unity between Jesus and God, emphasizing the importance of their relationship in achieving the ultimate goal of salvation for humanity.
Through knowing God and Jesus Christ, believers can attain eternal life. This implies that eternal life is not just about living forever but also about having a deep, personal relationship with God and Jesus. Individuals can experience true life and fulfillment beyond earthly existence by knowing them intimately. This verse underscores the significance of faith and knowledge in securing eternal life, emphasizing the transformative power of a relationship with God and Jesus.
Reflecting on this prayer of Jesus, we are reminded of the profound love and sacrifice that underlie his mission on Earth. He invites us to delve deeper into our own faith and relationship with God through his words, encouraging us to seek eternal truths and spiritual fulfillment. Let us consider the depth of our own connection with God and Jesus Christ as we meditate on this verse.
Understanding what John 17:1-3 really means
In the Gospel of John, chapter 17 captures a poignant moment in Jesus’ ministry, known as the High Priestly Prayer, occurring just before His crucifixion. This prayer serves as a window into the profound intimacy between Jesus and the Father, unveiling the purpose and mission that Jesus came to fulfill on earth.
As Jesus utters the words, “Father, the hour has come,” He signals the climax of His earthly journey, pointing towards the imminent sacrifice on the cross. This pivotal moment signifies the culmination of God’s redemptive plan for humanity, where Jesus willingly offers Himself for the salvation of all.
In requesting, “Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you,” Jesus reveals His desire for the Father to manifest His divine nature through the events that will transpire. Through His obedience and sacrifice, Jesus will bring glory to the Father, showcasing the unity of purpose between the Father and the Son.
Acknowledging the authority bestowed upon Him, Jesus acknowledges His role in granting eternal life to those who believe in Him. This act of granting eternal life underscores the centrality of faith in Jesus as the gateway to everlasting communion with God.
The essence of eternal life, as articulated by Jesus, lies in knowing God and Jesus Christ intimately. This profound relationship transcends mere existence, offering a depth of connection that brings true fulfillment and purpose to life.
Drawing parallels with other biblical passages such as John 3:16, John 14:6, and Philippians 2:9-11, we see a consistent theme of God’s love, Jesus as the path to eternal life, and the exaltation of Christ. These passages collectively emphasize the centrality of Jesus in the divine plan for salvation and eternal life.
In a world marked by uncertainty and a quest for meaning, the message of John 17:1-3 resonates deeply. It challenges believers to prioritize their relationship with God, recognizing that true fulfillment and eternal hope are found in knowing Him personally.
Consider the transformative power of this message in the lives of individuals who, amidst the pursuits of this world, discover the profound truth that eternal life is rooted in a personal relationship with God and Jesus Christ. This realization brings a sense of peace, purpose, and hope that transcends temporal circumstances, offering a lasting anchor in the storms of life.
As we reflect on John 17:1-3, let us ponder the depth of its message and the invitation it extends to each of us. May we embrace the call to seek a deeper connection with God, finding in Him the source of true fulfillment and the promise of eternal life.
What does it mean to know God?
To know God means to have a personal and intimate relationship with Him. It involves recognizing Him as the one true God and Jesus Christ as the one whom He has sent. Knowing God goes beyond mere intellectual knowledge; it requires a deep understanding of His character, His love, His mercy, and His teachings. It involves living in accordance with His will and seeking to follow His commandments.
When we know God, we have a sense of closeness to Him and experience His presence in our lives. This knowledge brings us peace, comfort, and a sense of purpose. Knowing God enables us to experience His love and grace in a profound way, leading ultimately to a transformed life and a deeper connection with Him.
Application
Think of your relationship with God like your closest friendships or family bonds; they demand time and effort. Just as you invest energy into your career, consider dedicating time each day to knowing God intimately through prayer and study. Don’t just learn about Him—truly connect with Him. Imagine the growth in your life, both personally and spiritually. Are you ready to deepen this most important relationship today?
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.