New Testament
John 17:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I have revealed your name to the people you gave me out of the world. They were yours, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word.
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I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word.
What John 17:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus speaks to God about the disciples He has been given. He emphasizes that He has made God's name known to them, indicating that He has revealed God's character and purpose. The phrase 'out of the world' suggests that these disciples have been chosen from among many, highlighting their special relationship with God. Jesus acknowledges that they originally belonged to God before being entrusted to Him. Importantly, He notes that they have kept God's word, which signifies their faithfulness and commitment to His teachings. This verse reflects the deep connection between Jesus, His followers, and God, illustrating the divine plan of salvation and the importance of obedience to God's word. It underscores the idea that true discipleship involves recognizing and honoring God's authority and teachings, as well as the responsibility of believers to uphold and share those teachings with others.
How to apply John 17:6 to your life
As believers, we are called to know and reveal God's character to others. This involves living out our faith authentically and sharing the teachings of Jesus. By keeping God's word, we demonstrate our commitment to Him and encourage others to seek a relationship with God.
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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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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
Who are the people Jesus refers to in this verse?
The people Jesus refers to in John 17:6 are His disciples, those whom God has given to Him from the world. These individuals were chosen to follow Jesus and learn from Him. They represent a special group that has been called out to fulfill God's purpose, highlighting their unique relationship with both Jesus and God the Father.
What does 'out of the world' signify in this context?
The phrase 'out of the world' in John 17:6 signifies that the disciples have been chosen from among many people in the world. It emphasizes their special status and divine selection, indicating that they are set apart for a specific purpose in God's plan. This separation underscores the idea that true discipleship involves a commitment to follow Jesus and live according to God's teachings, distinct from worldly influences.
How does John 17:6 relate to discipleship?
John 17:6 highlights the essence of discipleship by showing that true followers of Jesus are those who recognize and keep God's word. Discipleship involves not only learning about God but also embodying His teachings in daily life. The verse illustrates that being a disciple means being entrusted with God's message and living in a way that reflects His character, thereby fulfilling the call to share that message with others.
What is the significance of keeping God's word in this verse?
Keeping God's word in John 17:6 signifies faithfulness and obedience to God's teachings. It reflects the disciples' commitment to live according to what Jesus has taught them. This obedience is crucial for a genuine relationship with God, as it demonstrates trust and respect for His authority. The verse encourages believers to uphold God's word in their lives, which in turn strengthens their faith and serves as a witness to others.
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