New Testament
John 17:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I am not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one.
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I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.
What John 17:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is praying for His followers, asking God not to remove them from the world but to protect them from evil. This highlights the reality that believers live in a world filled with challenges and temptations. Jesus acknowledges the presence of evil, represented by 'the evil one,' which refers to Satan and his influence. Instead of seeking to isolate His disciples from the world, He desires that they remain in it, equipped with divine protection. This prayer emphasizes the importance of being in the world to fulfill their mission while relying on God’s strength to resist evil. It reassures believers that they are not alone in their struggles and that God is actively involved in safeguarding them against spiritual dangers. This verse encourages Christians to engage with the world around them while remaining steadfast in their faith, trusting in God's protection against the forces that seek to lead them astray.
How to apply John 17:15 to your life
As believers, we should embrace our role in the world while seeking God's protection from evil influences. Regular prayer for strength and guidance is essential. We can engage with our communities, sharing love and truth, while remaining vigilant against temptations that may lead us away from our faith.
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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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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 17:15 mean?
In John 17:15, Jesus is praying for His followers, asking God to protect them from evil while they remain in the world. This highlights the need for believers to engage with the world while relying on God's strength to resist temptation.
What is the meaning of 'the evil one' in John 17:15?
'The evil one' in John 17:15 refers to Satan and his influence in the world. Jesus is asking God to safeguard His disciples from the harmful effects of evil that they encounter.
How can we apply John 17:15 in our lives?
We can apply John 17:15 by engaging with our communities and sharing our faith while seeking God's protection through prayer. Staying vigilant against temptations helps us remain steadfast in our beliefs.
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