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John 17:16
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Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world--(See Joh 15:18-19). This is reiterated here, to pave the way for the prayer which follows.
John Gill Bible Commentary
They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. These words are repeated from Joh 17:14, where they are given as a reason of the world's hatred to them; and here, as showing that they are exposed to the evil of it; and in both are used as an argument with his Father, that he would take notice of them, and preserve them. , where they are given as a reason of the world's hatred to them; and here, as showing that they are exposed to the evil of it; and in both are used as an argument with his Father, that he would take notice of them, and preserve them. John 17:17 joh 17:17 joh 17:17 joh 17:17Sanctify them through thy truth,.... The Syriac version introduces this petition, with the appellation "Abba, Father": and the sanctification prayed for regards the apostles, either as ministers of the word, and may intend their separation for their work and office; for which though they were sanctified or separated from their mother's womb, and by Christ when he sent them forth, yet were to have a fresh commission and unction after our Lord's resurrection, and upon his ascension to heaven; and also their qualification for it, with the truth of grace and doctrine, with holiness of heart and life, and with a preservation in the truth, by being kept faithful to it: or it may also regard them as Christians and believers, and intend a greater degree of the sanctification of the Spirit, which is imperfect in this life; for though sanctification in Christ is perfect, and so it is in the saints, as to parts, yet not as to degrees; which appears from the imperfection of faith, hope, love, and knowledge, from indwelling sin, being in the best of saints, from their necessities, from their disclaiming perfection, and their desires after it. Sanctification is a progressive work, which is carried on gradually; as is clear from the characters of regenerate ones, who are first newborn babes, then young men, and afterwards fathers in Christ; from the similes, by which it is expressed as seed which opens and grows up by degrees, and light which shines more and more unto the perfect day from exhortations to a concern for the growth of it, and prayers for it: and it is indeed continually carrying on, as may be concluded from the hand in which it is; and the progress and finishing of this work, as well as the beginning of it, are entirely the Lord's; and the way and means in which this is done, are by or through the truth of the Gospel: thy word is truth; it is "peculiarly" so, as the Arabic version reads it. The Gospel is here meant, and is so called on account of its original, it comes from the God of truth; and because of the concern which Christ, who is the truth, has in it, he being the author, preacher, and sum and substance of it; and because the Spirit of truth has dictated it, leads into it, qualifies men to preach it, and makes it effectual: and because it contains all truth necessary to salvation, and nothing but truth, and particularly that eminent truth, salvation alone by Christ; and because it is opposed to the law, which is but a shadow, of which the good things in the Gospel are the substance: now this is the means both of the beginning, and increasing, and carrying on the work of sanctification in the hearts of God's people, as well as of an experimental knowledge of it; and an increase of that knowledge does more and more qualify the ministers of it for their ministerial work and service, which seems here chiefly designed.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
17:16-18 Being holy refers to purity gained by separation from the world, and living a life so aligned with God that it reflects his passions. Disciples are set apart by God, equipped by the Spirit, and readied by God’s word to enter the world without being victimized by its darkness.
John 17:16
Prayer for the Disciples
15I am not asking that You take them out of the world, but that You keep them from the evil one.16They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.17Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Greatest Prayer
By Leonard Ravenhill4.5K1:05:14PrayerISA 12:3MAT 12:36JHN 7:38JHN 17:9JHN 17:161PE 1:8In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the high priestly prayer of Jesus in John 17. He emphasizes the need for believers to prioritize their anger and concern for things that align with God's will. The speaker also highlights the importance of living a spirit-filled life, which is characterized by fruitfulness and beauty. He mentions that the Gospel of John provides a unique perspective on Jesus' ministry, with a focus on miracles and the deeper meaning behind them. The speaker concludes by sharing a personal story of a man who experienced the joy and transformation of salvation.
Christ in the Offering - Part 1
By Albert Leckie1.8K58:46OfferingJHN 1:29JHN 7:1JHN 8:23JHN 10:23JHN 11:54JHN 17:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses the different aspects of Jesus' character as depicted in the Gospel of John. He starts by comparing Jesus to an ostrich, emphasizing his submissive nature and willingness to be led. The preacher then mentions the image of a he goat, symbolizing Jesus' comeliness in his actions. He also highlights Jesus' role as a tireless worker, always completing the tasks given to him by his Father. Lastly, the preacher discusses Jesus' heavenly character, emphasizing his separation from the world and his divine nature. Throughout the sermon, the preacher references various passages from the Bible, including Proverbs, Psalms, and the Gospel of John, to support his points.
The Appearing of Resurrection and the Giving of Power
By Newman Sze8201:22:11MAT 28:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 24:44JHN 20:19JHN 21:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 232
By Don Courville32020:34Radio ShowJHN 17:16In this sermon, the preacher talks about a man who believes that God will bring a great awakening to the land and plans to preach until he dies. The preacher emphasizes that being blessed means having God's kingdom within our hearts and being in the world but not of the world. He refers to John 17 to explain how Christians are different in the world and should be kept from evil. The preacher also mentions the story of Corrie and Betsy, where Corrie learns to find satisfaction in Christ despite difficult circumstances. The sermon highlights the importance of experiencing the kingdom of God and the need for deliverance from demonic influences.
The Grace of Longsuffering the Counterpart of "Gifts of healing."
By Smith Wigglesworth0Gifts of HealingLongsufferingPSA 91:16HAB 2:14MAT 7:7LUK 10:19JHN 17:161CO 12:92CO 1:82TI 3:171PE 5:101JN 4:4Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the significance of longsuffering as a prerequisite for the gifts of healing, urging believers to be filled with the Holy Spirit to understand and operate in these gifts. He highlights that true healing comes from a place of compassion and authority over evil forces, and that believers must be willing to confront and cast out these forces with confidence in God's power. Wigglesworth encourages the congregation to awaken to their potential in Christ, stressing that the gifts of healing are not merely for personal gain but for the benefit of others, and that a deep relationship with God is essential for effective ministry.
In the Spirit or in the World
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual SeparationLiving in the SpiritLUK 12:20JHN 3:6JHN 17:16COL 3:1REV 5:5REV 21:9T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the distinction between living in the Spirit versus being consumed by the world, using the imagery of the New Jerusalem as a representation of a spiritual people rather than a literal city. He argues that true understanding of spiritual truths requires a separation from worldly concerns, as illustrated by John's vision of being carried away in the Spirit to a high mountain. Sparks highlights that the Christian life is about being alive in the Spirit, which allows believers to perceive divine truths and realities beyond the physical realm. He warns against the dangers of being 'worldly Christians' and encourages believers to seek a deeper spiritual connection with God. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to spiritual growth and a rejection of worldly distractions.
Harmony
By T. Austin-Sparks0Harmony in ChristDivine OrderPSA 119:89MAT 6:10JHN 17:16ROM 8:291CO 14:33EPH 1:10PHP 2:15COL 1:201PE 2:9REV 5:9T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the Bible reveals God's nature as one of order, contrasting it with the chaos brought by Satan. He explains that Christ embodies divine order and that the church is called to manifest this order in the world. The ultimate goal is to restore harmony and glory through Christ, who reconciles all things to Himself, bringing heaven's order into our lives. Sparks encourages believers to recognize their role in this divine purpose and to seek conformity to Christ, the embodiment of heavenly order. The message highlights the importance of living under God's rule to eliminate discord in our lives and communities.
The New Israel's Passover
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Lord's TableSpiritual VictoryEXO 12:13MAT 26:26JHN 12:31JHN 17:16ROM 8:11CO 11:26COL 2:15HEB 12:231PE 1:18REV 5:9T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the Lord's Table as the new Israel's Passover, highlighting its universal presence in Christianity and the danger of losing its profound meaning. He explains that the Lord's Supper represents not only what Christ has done for us but also the implications of our participation in His victory over evil. The sermon draws parallels between the Passover in Exodus and the Lord's Table, illustrating how the blood of the Passover Lamb signifies our deliverance from judgment and our identity as the Church of the First-born. Sparks urges believers to recognize their separation from the world and the Lord's absolute authority in their lives as they partake in the communion. He calls for a deeper spiritual understanding of the Lord's Table, reminding us of our commitment to Christ and the victory we celebrate.
What Is Holiness?
By Samuel Logan Brengle0HolinessSanctificationJHN 17:162PE 1:4Samuel Logan Brengle addresses the concept of holiness and sanctification, explaining that true holiness is not merely the absence of sin but the presence of God's love in our hearts. He emphasizes that holiness involves being like God in nature, characterized by purity, love, and separation from the world. Brengle illustrates that while we may feel inadequate, the Bible assures us that we can be like Jesus in our actions and spirit. He concludes that holiness is about having a clean heart filled with love, which is the birthright of all believers. The sermon encourages believers to seek a deeper sanctification to fully embody God's nature.
Living as Light in the World
By A.W. Tozer0Living as LightSeparation from the WorldMAT 5:14JHN 17:16ROM 12:22CO 6:17EPH 5:8PHP 2:15COL 3:2JAS 4:41PE 2:91JN 2:15A.W. Tozer emphasizes that Christians are called to live as light in the world, firmly stating that separation from worldly values is a biblical mandate. He references scripture to illustrate that friendship with the world equates to enmity with God, urging believers to understand their identity as not of this world. Tozer warns against the misconception that separation means complete withdrawal from society, advocating instead for active engagement while maintaining spiritual integrity. He encourages Christians to navigate their relationship with the world wisely, without losing sight of their divine calling.
Man or Angel
By Phoebe Palmer0PSA 144:1LUK 15:10JHN 17:16ACT 10:5ROM 8:91CO 3:92CO 5:202CO 6:16EPH 2:6HEB 2:16Phoebe Palmer emphasizes the unique role of humanity in the divine plan of salvation, highlighting how God commissions men to carry out tasks that even the highest archangels cannot perform. By taking on human form, Christ was able to effectively communicate with and save mankind, leaving behind His image in believers who are called to represent Him on earth. The redeemed, though still in the world, are not of the world, as their true citizenship is in Heaven, and they are empowered by the Spirit to do the will of God and participate in the work of saving souls.
They Are Not of the World, Even as I Am Not of the World.
By Phoebe Palmer0JHN 17:161TH 5:23TIT 2:14HEB 12:11PE 2:9Phoebe Palmer preaches about the prayer of Jesus for his disciples, emphasizing the importance of believers being in the world but not of it, kept from evil by God. She shares the joy of being fully redeemed and sanctified, set apart for holy service, as chosen vessels unto God. Palmer urges every believer to declare the work of the Spirit in their lives, testifying to God's grace and sanctification, and to fulfill the duty of sharing the great salvation with others, empowered by the Spirit's might.
The Church: Her Membership
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0MAT 16:18JHN 17:16ROM 11:251CO 12:13EPH 3:3EPH 5:25COL 3:4COL 3:111JN 3:2Lewis Sperry Chafer emphasizes the importance of understanding the Bible doctrine of the Church alongside salvation truth. The word 'church' in the New Testament refers to a called-out company of people, with applications to local gatherings and the universal body of believers gathered by the Spirit. The Church is a New Testament revelation, not found in the Old Testament, and was formed after Christ's death, resurrection, ascension, and the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The Church consists of both Jews and Gentiles, distinct from organized churches, and is a heavenly people destined to be conformed to the image of Christ.
Called Out and Called Into
By H.J. Vine0JHN 4:23JHN 8:32JHN 17:16ACT 7:21CO 1:9EPH 1:23H.J. Vine preaches on 'The God of Glory' showcasing how God called Abraham, Moses, Israel, and the Church into divine purposes and blessings through separation and obedience. Abraham was called into a rich inheritance and became the friend of God, while Lot faced consequences for straying from the path of separation. Israel, though backslidden, awaits a future blessing upon receiving Jesus as their true Messiah. The Church, called out from the world, is invited into a deep fellowship with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, experiencing divine liberty and worship.
De Wereld Veranderen (Dutch)
By Anton Bosch0JHN 17:16ROM 13:1EPH 6:6Anton Bosch preaches about the desire for a just and righteous society where God's commandments are respected, exploring the challenge of transforming the current world into this ideal world. He delves into the distinction between 'the world' and 'the church,' emphasizing that a Christian nation can only exist if its people, government, and laws are truly born-again Christians reflecting biblical principles. Drawing examples from history, including Calvin's attempt in Geneva, he highlights that true change comes from transformed hearts through rebirth, not merely through enforcing laws.
Changing the World
By Anton Bosch0JHN 17:16Anton Bosch discusses the desire for a righteous society and the misconception of achieving it through legislation, emphasizing the distinction between 'the world' and 'the church' as highlighted in 1 Corinthians 5:12-13 and John 17:16. He explains that a truly Christian nation would require all its people to be born-again Christians, reflecting God's law entirely, which has never been fully realized. Drawing examples from history, including John Calvin's attempt in Geneva, he illustrates how enforcing laws without transformed hearts leads to hypocrisy and failure.
Love Not the World
By Horatius Bonar0WorldlinessEternal PerspectiveMAT 16:25JHN 1:10JHN 7:7JHN 14:27JHN 17:9JHN 17:161CO 1:20GAL 6:14JAS 4:41JN 2:15Horatius Bonar emphasizes the dangers of loving the world, warning that its gain leads to the loss of the soul and that friendship with the world is enmity against God. He highlights that the world does not recognize or love Christ, and that believers are called to be separate from it, as it is ruled by Satan and filled with wickedness. Bonar urges Christians to focus on eternal treasures rather than the fleeting pleasures of this world, reminding them that their true home lies in the kingdom to come.
Oneness With God in His Repudiation of This World
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual PilgrimageOneness with GodGEN 11:27GEN 12:1GEN 17:52CH 20:7ISA 41:8JHN 17:16ACT 13:22HEB 11:13JAS 2:231PE 2:11T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the necessity of oneness with God through a repudiation of the world, illustrating this through the life of Abraham, who was called the friend of God. He explains that true friendship with God requires a spiritual pilgrimage, marked by a decisive step away from worldly ties and into a deeper relationship with God. This journey is not instantaneous but involves progressive stages, where believers must continually affirm their commitment to God amidst worldly temptations. Sparks highlights that God’s call to Abraham to leave his homeland symbolizes a broader call for all believers to separate from the world and embrace a life centered on God’s purpose. Ultimately, the sermon encourages believers to cultivate a heart wholly devoted to God, reflecting the character of Abraham as a blessing to others.
On Separation From the World
By Thomas Reade0JOS 24:15MAT 10:32JHN 17:16ROM 12:22CO 6:17PHP 4:11HEB 13:51JN 2:15Thomas Reade preaches on the importance of separation from the world for true believers, emphasizing the clear commands in Scripture to be distinct from worldly ways and to seek first the kingdom of God. He highlights the encouragement and contentment found in faith in Jesus, contrasting the pursuit of worldly riches with the eternal gain of godliness and divine contentment. Reade urges Christians to be consistent, singular, and unashamed in their faith, willing to face reproach and maintain a marked distinction between the church and the world.
The Great Separation
By M.L. Dye0MAT 7:21MAT 12:36MAT 13:41MAT 25:21MAT 25:32JHN 5:28JHN 13:8JHN 17:16M.L. Dye preaches about Jesus' teachings on the great separation that will occur when all nations are gathered before Him, emphasizing the destiny of the righteous and the wicked. Jesus reiterated the reality of this separation multiple times, highlighting the importance of repentance and faith in Him for salvation. He stressed that genuine repentance is essential for true faith, and that without it, one cannot have a part with Him. Jesus' emphasis on repentance was evident throughout His ministry, culminating in His final instructions to His disciples before His crucifixion.
Astrology Theologized
By Valentin Weigel0GEN 1:16LUK 17:21JHN 3:6JHN 17:16ROM 6:6ROM 12:2Valentin Weigel preaches about the deep connection between Astrology and Theology, emphasizing that Astrology, as the study of natural wisdom, must be governed and guided by Theology, which is the saving knowledge of divine and supernatural things. He highlights the importance of surrendering to God and allowing the Spirit of God to lead and transform one's nature, overcoming the influence of the stars and the sinful inclinations of the flesh. Weigel teaches that through the exercise of sanctifying the Sabbath, one can transmute from a worse nature to a better one, by aligning with the Spirit of God within, ruling over the internal stars of concupiscences, and walking in the light of grace.
Consideration of a Position Conc. the Book of Common Prayer
By Isaac Penington0JHN 17:161CO 1:272CO 4:7REV 12:17REV 17:2Isaac Penington preaches about the kingdom, laws, and government of Christ in the heart and conscience, emphasizing the inoffensiveness of this spiritual kingdom to all just laws and governments of the kingdoms of men. He highlights the importance of being subject to the Spirit of Christ, following His leadings faithfully, and living in obedience to His righteous laws written in the heart. Penington warns about the false church and ministry set up by the power of the dragon, urging rulers, teachers, and people to consider their ways, worship, and ministry to avoid being deceived by antichristian influences. He emphasizes the need for humility, surrender to God's will, and discernment of the true Spirit of Christ in the midst of religious deceptions and worldly wisdom.
Concerning Persecution
By Isaac Penington0PSA 94:13PSA 139:23ISA 5:20MAT 5:11JHN 17:14JHN 17:162CO 4:17GAL 4:291PE 4:14Isaac Penington preaches about the nature of persecution, highlighting how it goes against the very essence of mankind's desire for good to be cherished and evil suppressed. He addresses the common objection of using conscience as an excuse to avoid punishment for evil deeds and discusses the supposed stubbornness of the Quakers, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to their principles out of tenderness towards God. Penington urges for a discernment of true liberty of conscience to avoid the grievous error of persecuting others under false pretenses.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world--(See Joh 15:18-19). This is reiterated here, to pave the way for the prayer which follows.
John Gill Bible Commentary
They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. These words are repeated from Joh 17:14, where they are given as a reason of the world's hatred to them; and here, as showing that they are exposed to the evil of it; and in both are used as an argument with his Father, that he would take notice of them, and preserve them. , where they are given as a reason of the world's hatred to them; and here, as showing that they are exposed to the evil of it; and in both are used as an argument with his Father, that he would take notice of them, and preserve them. John 17:17 joh 17:17 joh 17:17 joh 17:17Sanctify them through thy truth,.... The Syriac version introduces this petition, with the appellation "Abba, Father": and the sanctification prayed for regards the apostles, either as ministers of the word, and may intend their separation for their work and office; for which though they were sanctified or separated from their mother's womb, and by Christ when he sent them forth, yet were to have a fresh commission and unction after our Lord's resurrection, and upon his ascension to heaven; and also their qualification for it, with the truth of grace and doctrine, with holiness of heart and life, and with a preservation in the truth, by being kept faithful to it: or it may also regard them as Christians and believers, and intend a greater degree of the sanctification of the Spirit, which is imperfect in this life; for though sanctification in Christ is perfect, and so it is in the saints, as to parts, yet not as to degrees; which appears from the imperfection of faith, hope, love, and knowledge, from indwelling sin, being in the best of saints, from their necessities, from their disclaiming perfection, and their desires after it. Sanctification is a progressive work, which is carried on gradually; as is clear from the characters of regenerate ones, who are first newborn babes, then young men, and afterwards fathers in Christ; from the similes, by which it is expressed as seed which opens and grows up by degrees, and light which shines more and more unto the perfect day from exhortations to a concern for the growth of it, and prayers for it: and it is indeed continually carrying on, as may be concluded from the hand in which it is; and the progress and finishing of this work, as well as the beginning of it, are entirely the Lord's; and the way and means in which this is done, are by or through the truth of the Gospel: thy word is truth; it is "peculiarly" so, as the Arabic version reads it. The Gospel is here meant, and is so called on account of its original, it comes from the God of truth; and because of the concern which Christ, who is the truth, has in it, he being the author, preacher, and sum and substance of it; and because the Spirit of truth has dictated it, leads into it, qualifies men to preach it, and makes it effectual: and because it contains all truth necessary to salvation, and nothing but truth, and particularly that eminent truth, salvation alone by Christ; and because it is opposed to the law, which is but a shadow, of which the good things in the Gospel are the substance: now this is the means both of the beginning, and increasing, and carrying on the work of sanctification in the hearts of God's people, as well as of an experimental knowledge of it; and an increase of that knowledge does more and more qualify the ministers of it for their ministerial work and service, which seems here chiefly designed.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
17:16-18 Being holy refers to purity gained by separation from the world, and living a life so aligned with God that it reflects his passions. Disciples are set apart by God, equipped by the Spirit, and readied by God’s word to enter the world without being victimized by its darkness.