John 17:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
John 17:2
2 As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.
Chapter Context
John 17 is a theological gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of covenant, mercy, prayer. Written during the late first century CE (c. 90-95 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed late first-century challenges from both Judaism and emerging Gnostic thought.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-26: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within John and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
John 17:2
2 As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.
Analysis
As thou hast given him power over all flesh (ἐξουσίαν πάσης σαρκός, exousian pasēs sarkos)—The Father has delegated universal sovereignty to the Son. Exousia means delegated authority, not inherent power; it emphasizes Christ's role as Mediator between God and humanity. All flesh encompasses every human being without exception, Jew and Gentile alike.
That he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him—The purpose of Christ's authority is soteriological: to bestow eternal life (ζωὴν αἰώνιον, zōēn aiōnion) upon the elect. This verse reveals both divine sovereignty (the Father gives people to the Son) and Christ's mediatorial work (He gives them eternal life). The gift is particular, not universal—as many as (πᾶν ὅ, pan ho) distinguishes the elect from 'all flesh' in general. This is the heart of Reformed soteriology: Christ's salvific authority extends to all, but His saving work is effectual only for those given Him by the Father.
Historical Context
This is part of Jesus's High Priestly Prayer (John 17), prayed in the upper room or en route to Gethsemane on the night before His crucifixion. This prayer reveals the eternal covenant between Father and Son regarding redemption. First-century Jews would have understood 'power over all flesh' as Messianic authority fulfilling Daniel 7:13-14, where the Son of Man receives dominion over all peoples.
Reflection
- How does Christ's universal authority over 'all flesh' relate to His particular mission to save 'as many as thou hast given him'?
- What assurance does it give you that eternal life comes through Christ's delegated authority from the Father, rather than human merit or decision?
Word Studies
- Eternal: αἰώνιος (Aiōnios) G166 - Eternal, everlasting
Cross-References
- Eternal Life: John 4:14, Daniel 7:14, 1 John 5:20
- Parallel theme: John 3:35, 6:37, 6:39, 17:6, 17:9, 17:24