New Testament
John 17:11
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I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, those whom you have given me, so that they may be one, just as we are.
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And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.
What John 17:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus speaks to God the Father, acknowledging that He is about to leave the world, while His followers remain. He asks God to protect them and keep them united in faith and purpose, just as He and the Father are united. This highlights the importance of community and oneness among believers. Jesus emphasizes that His followers are entrusted to God’s care, indicating their value and significance. The request for unity reflects the deep relationship within the Trinity, serving as a model for how believers should relate to one another. This prayer not only shows Jesus' concern for His disciples but also sets a foundation for the church's mission to embody love and unity in a divided world. The call for oneness is a reminder that believers are to support and uplift each other, reflecting the love of Christ in their interactions.
How to apply John 17:11 to your life
As believers, we should strive for unity within our communities, reflecting the love and oneness that Jesus prayed for. This means supporting one another, resolving conflicts peacefully, and working together towards common goals in faith. Our unity can be a powerful witness to the world.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jesus Prays for His Followers (John 17:1–26)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying John 17:11
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 17:11 mean?
In John 17:11, Jesus is speaking to God the Father, acknowledging His imminent departure from the world while His followers remain. He asks God to protect them and keep them united in faith, reflecting the unity He shares with the Father.
What is the significance of unity in John 17:11?
The significance of unity in John 17:11 lies in Jesus' prayer for His followers to be one, just as He and the Father are one. This emphasizes the importance of community and support among believers, serving as a model for how they should relate to each other.
What does 'keep them in your name' mean in John 17:11?
'Keep them in your name' in John 17:11 refers to Jesus asking God to protect His followers through His authority and character. It highlights the idea of divine protection and care for those who belong to Him.
How does John 17:11 relate to discipleship?
John 17:11 relates to discipleship by showing Jesus' concern for His followers' well-being and unity. It underscores the responsibility of believers to support one another in their faith journey, reflecting the love and unity that Jesus exemplified.
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