John 17:22
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
John 17:22
22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:
Chapter Context
John 17 is a theological gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of creation, prayer, righteousness. 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 17:22
22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:
Analysis
And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one (κἀγὼ τὴν δόξαν ἣν δέδωκάς μοι δέδωκα αὐτοῖς, ἵνα ὦσιν ἓν καθὼς ἡμεῖς ἕν, kagō tēn doxan hēn dedōkas moi dedōka autois, hina ōsin hen kathōs hēmeis hen)—Jesus prays that believers share in the glory (τὴν δόξαν, tēn doxan) the Father gave the Son. This isn't merely future glory but present participation in Christ's divine life. The purpose: that they may be one (ἵνα ὦσιν ἓν, hina ōsin hen), modeled on Trinitarian unity: even as we are one (καθὼς ἡμεῖς ἕν, kathōs hēmeis hen). Christian unity isn't organizational but ontological—participation in the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4) through union with Christ.
This profound prayer reveals that believers' unity flows from sharing Christ's glory—His presence, character, and mission. Division among Christians contradicts our nature as people indwelt by the same Spirit and united to the same Head. True unity requires supernatural transformation, not merely ecumenical agreement.
Historical Context
This is part of Jesus's High Priestly Prayer (John 17) before His arrest. He prayed not only for the eleven disciples but 'for them also which shall believe on me through their word' (17:20)—all future Christians. Church history shows the struggle to maintain unity; divisions reveal how Christians often live below their calling.
Reflection
- How does sharing in Christ's glory create the basis for Christian unity rather than mere institutional organization?
- What does it mean that Christian unity is modeled on Trinitarian unity—distinct persons in perfect communion?
- How should churches pursue unity while maintaining doctrinal faithfulness—balancing truth and love?
Word Studies
- Glory: δόξα (Doxa) G1391 - Glory, majesty, splendor
Cross-References
- Glory: John 1:14, 2 Corinthians 3:18
- Parallel theme: John 1:16, 14:20, Mark 6:7, 2 Corinthians 5:20, 6:1, Ephesians 2:20