John 17:3–5 (WEL) “This is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you sent. 4 “I glorified you on the earth. I finished the work that you gave me to do. 5 “So now, Father, glorify me alongside yourself with the glory that I had with you before the world began.”
V3 “This is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you sent.
Jesus is praying for believers. Don’t believers already know God? Yes, but Jesus refers to getting to know Him better: His character traits, His worldview, His rules, His cares, etc. Compare Jeremiah 9:24 and Philippians 3:10.
(Holman Apologetics Commentary on the Bible – Gospels and Acts): “Many religions relate life after death to the knowledge of God or of gods. Yet the Bible is distinct in that “to know” God does not refer merely to cognitive knowledge (the Greek conception); it means living in fellowship with God. Of course, God can also be known to a limited extent through creation (Rom 1:18–25), but ultimately knowledge of God is contingent upon salvation. Moreover, here Jesus is presented as the sole authorized representative of this one true God. He is the God-sent Messiah, God’s Anointed One, the Christ. Just as there is only one true God, there is only one way to the Father: Jesus Christ (14:6; Carson 1991, 556; Morris 1995, 638).”
Eternal life is not equal to living eternally. Even those who refuse and reject the gospel of Jesus Christ live in the Lake of Fire eternally suffering conscious darkness, heat, desire, unrest, etc. (Revelation 20:11–15). See also Daniel 12:2, Jude 1:7, and Matthew 25:41.
Eternal life includes eternal light, perfect temperature, godly desires fulfilled, peace, fellowship, service to our God, rest, and all spiritual blessings (Ephesians 1:3).
There is only one God, not many as in heathen religions and Mormonism. Compare Isaiah 44:6, 1 Kings 8:60, and Isaiah 44:8.
Jesus was sent because He already existed. Jesus was sent commissioned to serve. Jesus was sent to provide salvation. Jesus was sent to deliver captives from sin to freedom.
V4 “I glorified you on the earth. I finished the work that you gave me to do.”
His life and ministry were glorifying the Father, which He completed. He didn’t start something and back off because it became difficult. He pressed on.
Principle: Finish what you start (if able).
Principle: If your mission from God becomes difficult, continue, press on in the strength and grace of God (2 Corinthians 12:9, Isaiah 40:31, and Psalm 138:3).
V5 “So now, Father, glorify me alongside yourself with the glory that I had with you before the world began.”
He was promised blessings when He finished, so He prays for that fulfillment. Not only will He have all His previous glory but much more.
Principle: After trials in faith, God rewards some blessings. Compare Job 42:10-17), Joseph (Psalm 105:16–22). See also Isaiah 35:10 and 1 Peter 4:13.
We learn:
- That we must know God, His salvation, His Gospel, and believe in faith that Jesus is the only Savior.
- That Jesus is eternal.
- That Jesus has glorified His Father.
Questions:
- Have you placed your faith and trust in Jesus Christ alone for forgiveness of sins?
- Are you diligent to serve God and glorify Him in everything?