17:8 17:8

John 17:9

17:10 17:10

Bible Versions

I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine.
I {G1473} pray {G2065} for {G4012} them {G846}: I pray {G2065} not {G3756} for {G4012} the world {G2889}, but {G235} for {G4012} them which {G3739} thou hast given {G1325} me {G3427}; for {G3754} they are {G1526} thine {G4674}.
“I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given to me, because they are yours.
I ask on their behalf. I do not ask on behalf of the world, but on behalf of those You have given Me; for they are Yours.
I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for those whom thou hast given me; for they are thine:

John 17:9 is a pivotal verse within what is often called Jesus' "High Priestly Prayer," found in the Gospel of John, chapter 17. This profound prayer, offered just before His crucifixion, reveals the depth of Jesus' heart for His disciples and for all future believers.

Context

This verse is part of Jesus' deeply personal and comprehensive prayer to His Father, offered on the night before His betrayal and crucifixion. Having shared His final teachings and comforting words with His disciples (John 13-16), Jesus now turns His attention to intercession. The prayer begins with Jesus praying for Himself and His glorification (John 17:1-5), then transitions to His disciples (John 17:6-19), and finally extends to all who would believe through their message (John 17:20-26). Verse 9 specifically highlights the beneficiaries of His immediate intercession.

Key Themes

  • Jesus' Specific Intercession: Jesus' prayer is not a general petition for all humanity at this moment, but a focused intercession for a particular group: those whom the Father has "given" Him. This underscores the intense, personal care Christ has for His followers. It's a prayer for protection, unity, and sanctification in a hostile world (John 17:15, John 17:21).
  • Distinction Between Believers and "The World": The phrase "I pray not for the world" is crucial. In Johannine theology, "the world" (Greek: kosmos) often represents humanity alienated from God, characterized by sin and opposition to divine truth. Jesus is not praying for the world in its rebellious state, but for those who have been drawn out of it and entrusted to Him. This highlights the unique position and calling of believers, who are "in the world but not of the world" (John 17:14).
  • Divine Ownership and Election: The statement "but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine" emphasizes the divine initiative in salvation. Those who believe are not merely self-chosen but are "given" by the Father to the Son. This concept reinforces God's sovereign plan and the profound truth that believers belong to God, a theme echoed in other passages like John 6:37 and John 10:29, where Jesus states that no one can snatch them out of the Father's hand.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "world" is kosmos (κόσμος). In John's Gospel, kosmos can refer to the created universe, but often denotes humanity in its fallen, unredeemed state, hostile to God's will. When Jesus says He does "not pray for the world" here, He is distinguishing His specific intercession for His chosen ones from a general prayer for the salvation of all humanity at this particular moment in His prayer. This does not contradict God's universal love or desire for all to be saved, but rather emphasizes the distinct spiritual reality of His disciples.

Practical Application

For believers today, this verse offers immense comfort and assurance. It reminds us that:

  • We are Individually Known and Cared For: Jesus' specific prayer for "them" shows His deep, personal concern for each person the Father has given Him. This means our salvation is not random but part of a divine, intentional plan.
  • We are Distinct from the World: While called to live in the world and be a light, we are not to conform to its values or systems that oppose God (Romans 12:2). This verse reinforces our identity as God's own people.
  • Our Security is in God: The fact that believers "are thine" (the Father's) provides profound security. Our belonging to God through Christ is a divine act, and He is faithful to protect and preserve His own. This should instill confidence in our walk of faith.

Significance

John 17:9 powerfully illustrates Jesus' role as our great High Priest, continually interceding for His people. It reveals the intimate relationship within the Godhead and the secure position of those whom the Father has drawn to the Son. It is a foundational verse for understanding the nature of Christ's care for His church and the divine ownership of believers.

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.

  • Hebrews 9:24

    For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, [which are] the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:

  • John 17:2

    As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.

  • John 17:6

    I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word.

  • Luke 22:32

    But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.

  • John 17:20

    Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;

  • John 14:16

    And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;

  • 1 John 5:19

    [And] we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.
 Back

Search Scripture