John 17:3

KJV

And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} this {G3778} is {G2076} life {G2222} eternal {G166}, that {G2443} they might know {G1097} thee {G4571} the only {G3441} true {G228} God {G2316}, and {G2532} Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547}, whom {G3739} thou hast sent {G649}.

Complete Jewish Bible

And eternal life is this: to know you, the one true God, and him whom you sent, Yeshua the Messiah.

Berean Standard Bible

Now this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.

American Standard Version

And this is life eternal, that they should know thee the only true God, and him whom thou didst send, even Jesus Christ.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In His profound High Priestly Prayer, uttered just before His crucifixion, Jesus defines eternal life not as mere unending existence but as a deep, intimate, and experiential knowledge of God the Father as the only true God, and of Jesus Christ as the one divinely sent by the Father. This verse encapsulates the essence of salvation as a relational reality, emphasizing that true life is found in a personal, ongoing fellowship with the Triune God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** [John 17](/john/17 "John 17 - Jesus' High Priestly Prayer") stands as the pinnacle of Jesus' farewell discourse, immediately following His final teachings to His disciples in [John 13-16](/john/13-16 "John 13-16 - Jesus' Farewell Discourse"). This chapter records Jesus' longest recorded prayer, offered directly to His Father. It transitions from His public ministry and private instruction to the intensely personal and intercessory act before His arrest, trial, and crucifixion. The prayer moves from Jesus' glorification and completion of His mission ([John 17:1-5](/john/17-1-5 "John 17:1-5 - Jesus Prays for Himself")) to His disciples' protection and sanctification ([John 17:6-19](/john/17-6-19 "John 17:6-19 - Jesus Prays for His Disciples")), and finally to the unity of all future believers ([John 17:20-26](/john/17-20-26 "John 17:20-26 - Jesus Prays for All Believers")). Verse [John 17:3](/john/17-3 "John 17:3 - Definition of Eternal Life") serves as a foundational definition within the opening section, setting the stage for the nature of the life Jesus came to give and for which He prays.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the Jewish thought of Jesus' day, "knowledge" (Hebrew: *da'at*, Greek: *gnosis*) was not merely intellectual assent but often implied a deep, covenantal relationship, as seen in passages like [Hosea 6:6](/hosea/6-6 "Hosea 6:6 - Knowledge of God, Not Sacrifice"). To "know" God meant to be in right relationship with Him, to obey His commands, and to experience His presence. The concept of "eternal life" (Hebrew: *chayyei olam*, Greek: *aiōnios zōē*) was a significant eschatological hope, often associated with the coming Messiah and the age to come. While some Jewish groups focused on a future, physical resurrection, Jesus redefines it as a present, spiritual reality rooted in relationship. The idea of God being "true" (Greek: *alēthinós*) resonated with the Old Testament emphasis on God's faithfulness and authenticity in contrast to idols or false gods, a theme prevalent in [Isaiah 44:6](/isaiah/44-6 "Isaiah 44:6 - God as the First and Last").

* **Key Themes:** This verse is central to several key themes within John's Gospel. The theme of **"eternal life"** is prominent, presented not as a future reward but as a present possession for those who believe ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World")). It directly connects to the theme of **"knowledge of God,"** emphasizing a personal, intimate relationship over mere intellectual understanding. The verse also highlights Jesus' **"divine mission"** as the one "sent" by the Father, underscoring His unique authority and role as the revealer of God. Furthermore, it subtly touches upon the **"Trinitarian nature of God,"** distinguishing the Father as "the only true God" while simultaneously affirming Jesus' co-equal status as the one through whom this knowledge is gained. This builds on earlier Johannine themes of Jesus' identity as the Son of God and His unity with the Father ([John 10:30](/john/10-30 "John 10:30 - I and the Father Are One")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **life (Greek, _zōḗ_):** This term refers to life in its fullest sense, not merely biological existence (*bios*) but the divine, spiritual life that God possesses and imparts. In John's Gospel, *zōḗ* often denotes the quality of life that is eternal, abundant, and spiritual, originating from God Himself. It is the very essence of being, characterized by fellowship with the divine.
* **eternal (Greek, _aiṓnios_):** Derived from *aiōn* (age), this adjective describes not just unending duration but also the quality or nature of that which pertains to the age to come, or to God's own timeless nature. It signifies a life that is qualitatively different, belonging to the divine realm, and possessing an enduring, spiritual quality that transcends temporal limitations.
* **know (Greek, _ginṓskō_):** This verb signifies more than intellectual comprehension. It implies a deep, personal, experiential, and relational knowledge, similar to the Old Testament concept of knowing God through covenant relationship. It involves intimacy, fellowship, and a transformative encounter, leading to a changed life. It is a progressive, ongoing relationship, not a one-time event.
* **true (Greek, _alēthinós_):** This adjective denotes that which is authentic, genuine, and real, in contrast to what is false, counterfeit, or merely a shadow. When applied to God, it emphasizes His absolute reality, faithfulness, and truthfulness, distinguishing Him from all false gods or human constructs.
* **sent (Greek, _apostéllō_):** This verb means to send out, especially on a mission or with authority. It highlights Jesus' divine commission and His unique role as the Father's authorized representative and messenger. Jesus is not merely a prophet or teacher, but the one specifically dispatched by God to accomplish His redemptive purpose.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And this is life eternal,"**: Jesus begins with a definitive statement, equating "this" (the following explanation) with the very essence of eternal life. This immediately shifts the focus from a future reward to a present reality, emphasizing the quality and nature of life rather than merely its duration.
* **"that they might know thee the only true God,"**: Here, Jesus specifies the first component of eternal life: a deep, intimate, and experiential knowledge of God the Father. The phrase "the only true God" distinguishes the Father from all other deities or human conceptions of God, affirming His unique and authentic nature. This knowledge is not abstract but relational, involving personal encounter and communion.
* **"and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent."**: The second indispensable component of eternal life is knowing Jesus Christ. The conjunction "and" links Jesus inextricably to the Father in this definition. The phrase "whom thou hast sent" underscores Jesus' divine origin, His unique messianic identity, and His authoritative mission as the Father's ultimate revelation and agent of salvation. To know the Father is to know the Son; to reject the Son is to reject the Father.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in [John 17:3](/john/17-3 "John 17:3 - Definition of Eternal Life") is **Definition**. Jesus provides a clear, concise, and profound definition of "eternal life," demystifying a concept that was often understood in purely eschatological or temporal terms. This definition serves as a theological cornerstone for His entire prayer. There is also strong **Emphasis** through the juxtaposition of "the only true God" and "Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent," highlighting the singular nature of God while simultaneously affirming the essential role of the Son in mediating knowledge of the Father. This creates a subtle **Parallelism** between knowing the Father and knowing the Son, indicating their inseparable relationship in the economy of salvation. Furthermore, the use of the verb "know" (Greek: *ginṓskō*) carries significant **Theological Weight**, implying a relational intimacy rather than mere intellectual assent, which is a recurring theme in John's Gospel.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 17:3 is a cornerstone verse for understanding the nature of salvation and the Christian life. It fundamentally redefines eternal life, moving it from a mere temporal extension to a qualitative relationship. This verse has profound Trinitarian implications, affirming the Father as "the only true God" while simultaneously placing Jesus Christ, the one "sent" by the Father, as equally essential for this saving knowledge. It underscores the unique mediation of Christ, asserting that access to the true God is exclusively through Him. This knowledge is not static but dynamic, a continuous deepening of intimacy with God that transforms the believer's existence in the present, not just in the future. It highlights that the very purpose of Jesus' mission was to reveal the Father and enable humanity to enter into this life-giving relationship.

* [1 John 5:20](/1_john/5-20 "1 John 5:20 - Knowing the True God and His Son") - "And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life."
* [Jeremiah 9:23-24](/jeremiah/9-23-24 "Jeremiah 9:23-24 - Boasting in Knowing God") - "Thus saith the Lord, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the Lord."
* [Matthew 11:27](/matthew/11-27 "Matthew 11:27 - No One Knows the Father Except the Son") - "All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John 17:3 invites us to profoundly re-evaluate our understanding of "eternal life." It is not merely a ticket to heaven after death, but a present, vibrant, and transformative relationship with the living God through Jesus Christ. This verse challenges us to move beyond superficial religious adherence or intellectual assent to a deep, experiential knowledge of God. It calls us to actively pursue intimacy with the Father and the Son, recognizing that this relationship is the very essence of true life. Our spiritual journey should be characterized by a continuous deepening of this knowledge, leading to greater love, obedience, and communion. If eternal life is knowing God, then our greatest pursuit should be to know Him more fully, to understand His character, His will, and His heart, as revealed through Jesus. This transforms our priorities, shaping our prayers, our study of Scripture, and our daily walk.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I currently define "eternal life" in my own understanding? Does my definition align with Jesus' definition in [John 17:3](/john/17-3 "John 17:3 - Definition of Eternal Life")?**
* **What does it mean for me to "know" God the Father and Jesus Christ in a deep, personal, and experiential way, beyond mere intellectual belief?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a deeper, more intimate knowledge of God in my daily life?**
* **How does the understanding that eternal life is a present reality, rather than just a future hope, impact my perspective on my current circumstances and spiritual journey?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the word "know" (ginṓskō) in this verse?**

Answer: The Greek word `ginṓskō` (G1097) for "know" is highly significant because it implies much more than intellectual understanding or factual acquaintance. Instead, it denotes a deep, personal, experiential, and relational knowledge, similar to the biblical concept of covenantal intimacy. It suggests an ongoing relationship that involves fellowship, communion, and a transformative encounter with God. This kind of knowing is dynamic and progressive, leading to a profound understanding of God's character and will, and a participation in His divine life. It's the kind of knowledge that changes a person from the inside out, as opposed to simply knowing *about* God.

**Does this verse imply that only Christians have eternal life?**

Answer: Yes, this verse strongly implies that eternal life, as defined by Jesus, is uniquely found through knowing the "only true God" and "Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." Given that Jesus is presented throughout John's Gospel as the exclusive way to the Father ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, Truth, and Life")), this definition points to a salvific knowledge that is mediated solely through Him. It is not merely a philosophical or abstract knowledge of a deity, but a specific, personal knowledge of the God revealed in Jesus Christ. Therefore, while God's general revelation is available to all, the saving, eternal life-giving knowledge is specific to those who come to know Him through His Son.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 17:3 finds its ultimate and profound Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus Himself being the very embodiment and mediator of this eternal life. He is not merely the *teacher* of eternal life, but the *source* and *substance* of it. As the "Word made flesh" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), Jesus perfectly reveals the "only true God" because He is "in the bosom of the Father" ([John 1:18](/john/1-18 "John 1:18 - No One Has Seen God")). To "know" Jesus is, in essence, to know the Father, for Jesus declares, "He that hath seen me hath seen the Father" ([John 14:9](/john/14-9 "John 14:9 - He Who Has Seen Me Has Seen the Father")). He is the "way, the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, Truth, and Life")), meaning that access to eternal life and the knowledge of God is inextricably linked to Him. Our ability to enter into this intimate relationship with the Father is solely through the atoning work of Jesus on the cross, which reconciles us to God, and through the indwelling Holy Spirit, whom Christ sends to enable us to truly know God ([John 16:13-14](/john/16-13-14 "John 16:13-14 - The Spirit Will Guide You Into All Truth")). Thus, eternal life is not just a concept defined by Jesus; it is a reality made possible and sustained *in* Jesus 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.

Cross-References

1 John 5:20

And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, [even] in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.

1 John 5:11

And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.

1 John 5:12

He that hath the Son hath life; [and] he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.

Jeremiah 9:23

¶ Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise [man] glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty [man] glory in his might, let not the rich [man] glory in his riches:

Jeremiah 9:24

But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I [am] the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these [things] I delight, saith the LORD.

John 17:25

O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.

John 3:17

For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.