New Testament
John 17:18
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Just as you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world.
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As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.
What John 17:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is expressing the mission that He has received from God the Father. Just as God sent Jesus into the world to fulfill His purpose, Jesus is now sending His followers into the world to continue that mission. This highlights the idea of being sent with a purpose, emphasizing that believers are not just to exist in the world but to actively engage with it. The sending of the disciples signifies their role in spreading the message of love, grace, and salvation that Jesus embodied. It also implies a responsibility to represent Jesus and His teachings in their actions and words. This verse serves as a reminder that Christians are called to be active participants in the world, sharing the good news and living out their faith in practical ways. The connection between Jesus' mission and that of His followers underscores the continuity of God's plan for humanity, showing that believers are part of a larger story of redemption and hope.
How to apply John 17:18 to your life
As followers of Christ, we are called to actively engage with the world around us. This means sharing our faith, serving others, and living out the teachings of Jesus in our daily lives. We should seek opportunities to represent Christ in our communities and beyond.
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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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 17:18
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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 17:18 mean?
John 17:18 means that just as God sent Jesus into the world for a specific purpose, Jesus is now sending His followers to continue that mission. It emphasizes the importance of actively engaging with the world and sharing the message of love and salvation.
What is the meaning of 'sent into the world' in John 17:18?
'Sent into the world' in John 17:18 refers to the mission given by God to Jesus and then passed on to His disciples. It signifies a call to action for believers to spread Jesus' teachings and represent Him in their daily lives.
How does John 17:18 apply to Christians today?
John 17:18 applies to Christians today by reminding them of their role in the world. It encourages believers to engage with their communities, share their faith, and embody the teachings of Jesus in their actions.
What themes are present in John 17:18?
The themes present in John 17:18 include mission, sending, purpose, discipleship, and engagement. These themes highlight the responsibility of believers to actively represent Jesus and His message in the world.
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