New Testament
John 17:24
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Father, I desire that those you have given me would also be with me where I am, so that they may see my glory, which you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world.
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Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.
What John 17:24 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus expresses a deep desire for his followers to be with him in heaven, sharing in the glory that God has given him. He emphasizes the intimate relationship between himself and the Father, highlighting that this love existed even before the creation of the world. This statement reflects Jesus' longing for unity with his disciples and the ultimate fulfillment of their relationship in eternity. The glory mentioned is not just a display of power but a profound manifestation of God's love and presence. Jesus wants his followers to experience the fullness of this glory, which is rooted in the eternal love shared between the Father and the Son. This verse encapsulates the hope of eternal life and the promise of being in the presence of God, where believers can fully appreciate the divine glory.
How to apply John 17:24 to your life
This verse encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with Jesus, understanding that he desires for them to be with him eternally. It reminds us to live in a way that reflects our hope in being united with Christ and experiencing his glory.
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 17:24
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 17:24 mean by 'behold my glory'?
In John 17:24, 'behold my glory' refers to the profound experience of witnessing the divine nature and majesty of Jesus. This glory is a reflection of God's love and presence, which Jesus desires his followers to experience fully. It signifies not just a visual spectacle but an intimate understanding of God's character and the relationship between the Father and the Son.
Why does Jesus want his followers to be with him?
Jesus expresses a deep desire for his followers to be with him in John 17:24 because he longs for unity and fellowship with them. This desire stems from his love for them and the hope that they will share in the divine glory that he possesses. Being with Jesus means experiencing eternal life and the fullness of joy that comes from being in God's presence.
What is the significance of 'before the foundation of the world'?
The phrase 'before the foundation of the world' highlights the eternal nature of God's love for Jesus and, by extension, for humanity. It signifies that God's plan for salvation and the relationship between the Father and the Son existed long before creation. This emphasizes the depth of God's commitment to his followers and the timelessness of his love.
How can I apply John 17:24 in my daily life?
To apply John 17:24 in your daily life, focus on cultivating a deeper relationship with Jesus through prayer, worship, and studying the Scriptures. Live with the hope of eternal life and the promise of being united with Christ. This perspective can shape your actions and interactions, encouraging you to reflect the love and glory of God in your daily choices.
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