New Testament
John 17:21
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 unity among his followers, comparing their oneness to the deep relationship he shares with God the Father.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be one in us, so that the world may believe that you sent me.
That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is praying for unity among his followers, comparing their oneness to the deep relationship he shares with God the Father. He emphasizes that just as he and the Father are united, so too should his disciples be united with each other and with God. This unity is not just for their benefit; it serves a greater purpose. When believers are united, it demonstrates to the world the truth of Jesus' mission and divinity. The world will see this unity as evidence that God sent Jesus, which can lead to belief in him. This prayer highlights the importance of community and harmony among believers, showing that their collective witness can impact the faith of others.
Related Bible verses
How to apply John 17:21 to your life
To live out this verse, strive for unity in your relationships with other believers. Engage in open communication, resolve conflicts, and support one another. By fostering a spirit of togetherness, you can reflect Christ's love and draw others to faith in him.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 17:21 mean?
John 17:21 expresses Jesus' prayer for unity among his followers, comparing their oneness to the relationship he shares with God the Father. This unity is meant to show the world the truth of Jesus' mission and encourage belief in him.
What is the meaning of unity in John 17:21?
In John 17:21, unity refers to the deep connection and harmony that Jesus desires among his followers, similar to the relationship between Jesus and God. This unity is essential for demonstrating the truth of Jesus' divine mission to the world.
How can we apply John 17:21 in our lives?
To apply John 17:21, focus on building strong relationships with other believers through open communication and conflict resolution. By promoting unity and support, you can reflect Christ's love and positively influence others.
Why is unity important according to John 17:21?
Unity is important in John 17:21 because it serves as a testimony to the world about Jesus' divine mission. When believers are united, it can lead others to believe in Jesus and recognize the truth of his message.
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