New Testament
John 17:14
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I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.
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I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
What John 17:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus speaks to God about His followers, emphasizing that He has shared God's message with them. Because they embrace this truth, they face hostility from the world around them. The world represents a system of values and beliefs that often contradicts God's teachings. Jesus identifies Himself as separate from this world, and by extension, His followers are also distinct. This separation leads to conflict, as those who align with God's word may be rejected or hated by those who do not. The verse highlights the cost of discipleship and the challenges believers face when they choose to live according to God's principles rather than conforming to societal norms. It serves as a reminder that being a follower of Christ may lead to opposition, but it also affirms the importance of staying true to God's word despite external pressures.
How to apply John 17:14 to your life
As believers, we should be prepared for challenges when we stand firm in our faith. Embrace God's word and live by its principles, even when faced with opposition. This commitment can strengthen our identity in Christ and encourage others to seek the truth.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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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 17:14
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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 17:14 mean?
John 17:14 means that Jesus has shared God's message with His followers, which sets them apart from the world. Because they accept this truth, they may face hatred and rejection from those who do not share their beliefs.
What is the meaning of 'the world has hated them' in John 17:14?
In John 17:14, 'the world has hated them' refers to the opposition and hostility that believers may experience from society. This hatred arises because their values and beliefs differ from those of the world.
How does John 17:14 relate to discipleship?
John 17:14 relates to discipleship by illustrating that following Jesus and embracing His teachings can lead to challenges and opposition. It underscores the cost of being a disciple and the need for believers to stay committed to their faith.
What themes are present in John 17:14?
Themes in John 17:14 include God's Word, discipleship, worldly opposition, and the separation of believers from societal values. It emphasizes faithfulness to God's truth and the identity of Christians in relation to the world.
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