Meaning of John 17:22

Jesus, in this profound prayer recorded in John 17, articulates his deep desire for the unity of his followers. He refers to "the glory that you gave me" as a divine endowment, a participation in the very essence and mission of God the Father. This glory is not merely an outward display but an inner transformation, a sharing in Christ's divine nature and purpose, which is then imparted to believers. The ultimate aim of this impartation is to foster an organic and profound unity among them, mirroring the perfect unity that exists between the Father and the Son, thereby serving as a powerful testament to God's redemptive work in the world.

Context and Background

This verse is part of Jesus' High Priestly Prayer, uttered just before his arrest and crucifixion. It is a deeply personal and intimate prayer offered on behalf of his disciples, both those present and all who would believe in him through their message. The prayer is a testament to Jesus' divine consciousness and his awareness of his unique relationship with the Father, as well as his profound concern for the spiritual well-being and unity of his followers. The "glory" Jesus speaks of is intrinsically linked to his divine mission and his relationship with the Father, a glory he now shares with his disciples.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Impartation of Glory: The "glory" is a gift from the Father to the Son, and by extension, from the Son to his disciples. This is not about human achievement but about a divine bestowment, enabling believers to participate in God's very being and purpose.
• Unity as a Divine Mandate: The ultimate goal of this shared glory is unity. Jesus prays for a unity that is not superficial or organizational, but a deep, intrinsic oneness, reflecting the perfect unity within the Godhead.
• Witness to the World: The unity of believers, empowered by this shared divine glory, is intended to be a visible sign to the world, demonstrating the reality of God's love and the efficacy of Christ's work.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This verse calls believers to a radical understanding of unity. It's not about conformity or uniformity, but about a shared spiritual reality rooted in Christ. The impartation of divine glory means believers are empowered by God's presence and purpose to live in a way that reflects His character and His love, thereby fostering genuine connection and mutual support. This unity is a spiritual discipline that requires humility, forgiveness, and a focus on Christ as the unifying center.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

The concept of glory in the Old Testament often refers to God's presence and majesty. In the New Testament, this glory is revealed in Jesus Christ, who is the effulgence of God's glory (Hebrews 1:3). John 17 situates this glory within the context of salvation history, where God's plan is to bring humanity into relationship with Himself. The unity of believers is the fulfillment of God's desire for a redeemed people who live in harmonious fellowship, mirroring the heavenly reality. This echoes the unity sought in the early church, as described in Acts and the epistles.

Analogies

• A Tapestry: Imagine a magnificent tapestry. Each thread, though distinct in color and texture, is woven together to create a beautiful and unified whole. The glory of God is the divine thread that binds believers together, allowing their individual gifts and personalities to contribute to a grander design.
• A Body: The human body functions as a unified whole, with various parts working in concert for the good of the entire organism. Similarly, believers, though diverse, are called to function as one body in Christ, each part essential and interconnected.
• A Symphony: A symphony orchestra comprises many different instruments, each with its unique sound. When played together under the conductor's direction, they produce a harmonious and powerful piece of music. The glory of God is the divine "conductor" that orchestrates believers into a harmonious expression of God's purpose.

Relation to Other Verses

• John 1:14: "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." This verse establishes Jesus as the embodiment of God's glory, the source from which believers receive it.
• 1 Corinthians 1:10: "I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment." This passage from Paul echoes Jesus' prayer for unity among the Corinthian believers, emphasizing the importance of shared thinking and purpose.
• Ephesians 4:4-6: "There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." This passage outlines the foundational elements of Christian unity, which are grounded in the singular reality of God and His redemptive work through Christ.
• 1 Peter 4:10: "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace." This verse highlights how the diverse gifts bestowed upon believers are meant to function within the community, contributing to its overall health and unity, a practical outworking of the shared glory.