17:21 17:21

John 17:22

17:23 17:23

Bible Versions

And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:
And {G2532} the glory {G1391} which {G3739} thou gavest {G1325} me {G3427} I {G1473} have given {G1325} them {G846}; that {G2443} they may be {G5600} one {G1520}, even as {G2531} we {G2249} are {G2070} one {G1520}:
The glory which you have given to me, I have given to them; so that they may be one, just as we are one —
I have given them the glory You gave Me, so that they may be one as We are one—
And the glory which thou hast given me I have given unto them; that they may be one, even as we are one;

John 17:22 is a profound declaration from Jesus' High Priestly Prayer, revealing His deep desire for the unity of His followers and the means by which it is achieved. This verse speaks to the incredible spiritual inheritance believers receive through Christ.

Context of John 17:22

This verse is part of Jesus' heartfelt prayer to His Father, recorded in John chapter 17. This prayer immediately precedes His arrest and crucifixion, making it one of His final, most intimate communications. In this chapter, Jesus prays for Himself, for His immediate disciples, and crucially, for all future believers (John 17:20). His concerns include their protection, sanctification, and, as highlighted in this verse, their profound unity, which serves as a powerful witness to the world.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Bestowal of Glory: Jesus states, "And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them." The "glory" (Greek: doxa) here refers to much more than just outward splendor. It encompasses the very nature, character, and manifested presence of God. This is the glory Jesus possessed with the Father before the world began (John 17:5) and revealed during His earthly ministry (John 1:14). By imparting this glory, Jesus shares His divine sonship, His intimate relationship with the Father, His authority, and His mission with His followers. It's a transformative sharing that enables believers to reflect God's character and participate in His divine life.
  • The Purpose of Unity: The ultimate goal of this shared glory is clearly stated: "that they may be one." This Christian unity is not merely organizational uniformity but a deep, spiritual, and relational oneness. It's a unity of purpose, mind, and spirit, rooted in a shared identity in Christ. This unity among believers is critical because it serves as a powerful testimony to the world, proving the authenticity of Jesus' mission and the Father's love (John 17:23).
  • The Divine Model of Unity: Jesus sets the standard for this unity as "even as we are one." This refers to the perfect, profound, and eternal unity within the Godhead—the Father and the Son. Their unity is characterized by absolute harmony, shared purpose, and intimate knowledge. Believers are called to emulate this divine oneness, reflecting the Trinitarian relationship in their fellowship. This spiritual unity is made possible through the indwelling Holy Spirit, connecting believers to Christ and, through Him, to the Father (John 14:20).

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "glory," doxa, in this context, conveys the splendor, majesty, and inherent nature of God. It's not just a reputation, but a radiant manifestation of His being. The word for "one," hen (neuter form of heis), emphasizes a unified essence or purpose, a singular entity composed of multiple parts, rather than simply a numerical count. This highlights the spiritual and essential oneness of believers.

Practical Application

John 17:22 presents a powerful call to action for believers today. We are to actively pursue and preserve the unity of the Spirit within the body of Christ. Our shared inheritance in Christ's glory should compel us to live in mutual love, understanding, and collaboration, overcoming divisions and reflecting the divine oneness to a watching world. This unity is a direct answer to Jesus' prayer and a compelling witness to the transformative power of the Gospel. It encourages us to prioritize what unites us in Christ over what divides us, living out our identity as one body in Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 2 Corinthians 3:18

    But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, [even] as by the Spirit of the Lord.

  • John 14:20

    At that day ye shall know that I [am] in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.

  • Mark 16:17

    And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;

  • Mark 16:20

    And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with [them], and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.

  • John 1:16

    And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.

  • Ephesians 2:20

    And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner [stone];

  • 2 Corinthians 6:1

    ¶ We then, [as] workers together [with him], beseech [you] also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.
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