New Testament
John 17:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And this is eternal life: to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.
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And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.
What John 17:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus defines eternal life as knowing God and Himself. This knowledge is not just intellectual but relational, emphasizing a deep, personal connection with the Creator and His Son. It highlights that eternal life is about experiencing a relationship with God, rather than merely living forever. Jesus identifies God as the only true God, contrasting Him with false gods or idols. By knowing Jesus, whom God sent, believers enter into this eternal life. This understanding shifts the focus from mere existence after death to a vibrant, ongoing relationship with God that begins in this life and continues into eternity. It invites believers to seek a deeper understanding of who God is and to cultivate their relationship with Jesus, which is central to their faith and spiritual journey.
How to apply John 17:3 to your life
To apply this verse, prioritize your relationship with God and Jesus in your daily life. Spend time in prayer, study the Bible, and seek to understand who God is. This deepening knowledge will enrich your faith and lead to a more fulfilling spiritual life.
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 17:3
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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 17:3 mean?
John 17:3 explains that eternal life is defined as knowing the only true God and Jesus Christ. This knowledge is about having a personal relationship with God rather than just intellectual understanding.
What is the meaning of eternal life in John 17:3?
In John 17:3, eternal life refers to a deep, personal relationship with God and Jesus. It emphasizes that true life is found in knowing God, which begins in this life and continues into eternity.
How does John 17:3 relate to faith?
John 17:3 highlights that faith is about knowing and relating to God and Jesus. This verse encourages believers to deepen their understanding and connection with God as central to their faith.
What is the significance of Jesus being sent by God in John 17:3?
The significance of Jesus being sent by God in John 17:3 underscores His role as the mediator between humanity and God. Knowing Jesus is essential for entering into the eternal life that God offers.
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