New Testament

John 17:15

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Jesus is praying for His followers, asking God not to remove them from the world but to protect them from evil.

Author
John the apostle
Written
Around AD 85-95
Genre
Gospel
Original Audience
All believers
CBTClear Bible Translation

I am not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one.

KJVKing James Version

I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.

Verse Analysis

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.

Key themes

Related topics

prayer, protection, wickedness

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.

Curated for this public verse page. John Summary

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.

The Book of John
Book Summary

The Book of John

John 1: The Word Made Flesh and the First Disciples

In the beginning is the Word, and the Word is with God, and the Word is God. All things are made by him, and in him is life, and the life is the light of men. The light shines in darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it. John the Baptist is sent from God to bear witness of the Light. He says he is not the Christ but comes to testify of him. The Word is made flesh and dwells among them, full of grace and truth. John bears witness and says that the one coming after him is preferred before him because he is before him.

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