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John 17:4
Verse
Context
Prayer for the Son
3Now this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.4I have glorified You on earth by accomplishing the work You gave Me to do.5And now, Father, glorify Me in Your presence with the glory I had with You before the world existed.
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I have glorified thee - Our Lord, considering himself as already sacrificed for the sin of the world, speaks of having completed the work which God had given him to do: and he looks forward to that time when, through the preaching of his Gospel, his sacrifice should be acknowledged, and the true God should be known and worshipped by the whole world.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I have glorified thee on the earth--rather, "I glorified" (for the thing is conceived as now past). I have finished--I finished. the work which thou gavest me to do--It is very important to preserve in the translation the past tense, used in the original, otherwise it might be thought that the work already "finished" was only what He had done before uttering that prayer; whereas it will be observed that our Lord speaks throughout as already beyond this present scene (Joh 17:12, &c.), and so must be supposed to include in His "finished work" the "decease which He was to accomplish at Jerusalem."
John Gill Bible Commentary
I have glorified thee on the earth,.... This is made use of as a reason and argument, why the Father should glorify him: Christ glorified his Father personally, as he held forth and expressed the glory of his person; and verbally, by ascribing, on all occasions, praise and glory to him; and really, or by deeds, and that by various ways: as in and by his ministry; by asserting he had his mission, qualifications, and doctrine, from him as a prophet; his principal work was to declare his Father's mind and will, his love and grace; nor did he seek his own, but his Father's glory: and by his miracles: for though these were proofs of his deity and Messiahship, and displays of his own glory; yet the glory of his Father, especially of his power, was eminently seen in them, for he referred them to him; and these were often the means of men's glorifying the God of Israel: and by his whole life and conversation, which was entirely according to the will of God; and every action of it was directed to his glory; particularly he glorified him by his early regard to his will, and the business he sent him about; by his zeal for his Father's house; and by the exercise of the various graces of faith, hope, and love upon him: and as by his life, so at his death, even all the while he was "on the earth"; where God had been dishonoured by the sin of men; where Christ now was debased in human nature, and even that was for the glory of God; and this is said in distinction from heaven, where God is glorified by the angels, and where Christ would shortly be glorified in his human nature: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do; by "the work" is meant obedience to the will of God; the destruction of all spiritual enemies, as sin, Satan, the world, and death; and the redemption and salvation of his people, which was "given" him to do: he did not take it upon himself, but being called to it he readily accepted of it; it was appointed, and cut out for him, in the council and covenant of grace; he was thoroughly acquainted with it; and though it was difficult, it was pleasant and delightful to him; nor did he leave it till he could say it is "finished"; as it was by himself alone, without the help of man; and is so complete that nothing can be added to it; and so firmly done, that it cannot be unravelled by men and devils: he speaks of it as done, because the time was come to finish it, and he was sure of the accomplishment of it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
17:4 Jesus’ miracles displayed God’s glory for the world to see (1:14). This task was finished; Jesus’ life and obedience had glorified God.
John 17:4
Prayer for the Son
3Now this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.4I have glorified You on earth by accomplishing the work You gave Me to do.5And now, Father, glorify Me in Your presence with the glory I had with You before the world existed.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Hebrews - Part 12): Enter Into the Rest of Jesus
By A.W. Tozer7.3K23:29ExpositionalMAT 6:33JHN 17:4ACT 13:36HEB 4:1HEB 4:11HEB 4:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of finding rest in God. He highlights that building character and doing virtuous deeds alone cannot bring true rest. The speaker shares an anecdote about a preacher named Norman Grubb who spoke about the desire to do meritorious deeds and be known as virtuous. The speaker also references Benjamin Franklin's attempt to be a good man by checking off virtues on a daily basis. The sermon concludes with a call to search ourselves before God and to enter into the rest that Jesus Christ has provided for us.
Charlotte Seminar 5-25-00 Pm
By George Warnock3.7K50:06SeminarPSA 27:4PSA 55:22ISA 30:26ISA 58:12JHN 17:4JHN 17:6ROM 8:26In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of God spreading a table and inviting people to partake in a feast. He emphasizes the importance of seeking God's burden and not trying to get rid of it. The speaker also mentions how the manifestation of resurrection and life in the earth may not necessarily lead to repentance, as seen in the story of Jesus raising a man from the dead. The sermon concludes by highlighting Jesus' finished work on the cross and his subsequent ruling and reigning from the heavenly throne.
Religiosity or Spirituality - Listening to the Spirit
By Zac Poonen3.4K56:21ReligiosityISA 30:21MAT 6:33LUK 5:16LUK 10:38JHN 17:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding and fulfilling the specific work that God has given us. He uses Jesus as an example, highlighting how Jesus obediently completed the tasks assigned to him, including spending thirty years making stools and benches and preaching for three and a half years. The speaker also emphasizes the significance of spending time alone with God, drawing attention to Jesus' habit of going into the wilderness to pray early in the morning. The sermon concludes with the speaker encouraging listeners to prioritize hearing from God and being obedient to His word, even if it means sacrificing certain things or potentially offending others.
(Genesis) Genesis 26:13-17
By J. Vernon McGee2.7K03:41GenesisGEN 22:9GEN 26:14GEN 26:18JHN 14:9JHN 17:4In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the life of Isaac and highlights his significance in the biblical narrative. Despite initially appearing weak, Isaac becomes greatly blessed and prosperous in the land. The Philistines, envious of his success, fill up the wells that Abraham's servants had dug. Isaac's importance is emphasized by the fact that his story is intertwined with that of Abraham, reflecting the intimate relationship between Jesus Christ and God the Father. Abimelech, recognizing Isaac's power, asks him to leave, and Isaac obediently moves to the valley of Gira.
Our Work for God
By Zac Poonen1.7K58:29WorkISA 40:28ISA 40:31MAT 10:32MAT 28:19JHN 17:4ACT 1:81JN 2:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of doing the work of an evangelist and seeking Christ's interests rather than our own. He highlights the scarcity of faithful individuals like Timothy and Titus who are truly gripped by the truth. The speaker urges the audience to teach and pass on this burden to faithful men who can continue spreading the message of God. He encourages young people to be the men and women of God that He needs in their generation, focusing on the main things and leading others to a godly and joyful life. The sermon concludes with a prayer for each individual to fulfill the task assigned by God and glorify Him by completing the work given to them.
He Pleased the Father for 33 Years
By Zac Poonen1.2K58:39JHN 7:37JHN 17:4JHN 17:9JHN 17:23This sermon reflects on the journey of 33 years, emphasizing the importance of looking back with gratitude and looking forward with hope. It highlights the need to compare ourselves with Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, rather than seeking worldly accomplishments. The sermon stresses the significance of surrendering to God, being filled with the Holy Spirit, and living a life that pleases the Father, focusing on unity, faith, and obedience.
Twelve Encouragements to Finish Well
By Richard Owen Roberts1.2K1:33:47DriftingJHN 17:4HEB 2:2HEB 12:1HEB 13:1HEB 13:3In this sermon, the speaker shares a helpful analogy given to him by a devout man in Texas. The analogy suggests that material possessions are necessary for life, but they become dangerous when they move from the hand to the heart. The speaker encourages the audience to hold everything they possess in an open hand, ready to share with others in need. The sermon then shifts to discussing the importance of living vitally and vigorously for the glory of God, using the example of Jesus who accomplished everything the Father sent him to do. The speaker emphasizes that through Christ's power, believers can also accomplish their purpose. The sermon concludes by referencing Hebrews 12:1-2, which encourages believers to lay aside encumbrances and sins, and to fix their eyes on Jesus as the author and perfecter of their faith.
He Who Does Gods Will Abides Forever
By Zac Poonen1.1K58:22ISA 50:4MAT 11:28JHN 17:4ACT 17:301JN 2:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of doing the will of God, drawing parallels to Noah's time and the impending destruction of the world. It highlights the need to surrender our own will and desires to align with God's will, focusing on obedience, humility, and gentleness as exemplified by Jesus. The speaker encourages a shift from self-centered living to a life dedicated to fulfilling God's purpose, even in the midst of past mistakes and ignorance.
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.
Unsearchable Riches
By J.C. Ryle0Unsearchable Riches of ChristHumilityJHN 17:4ROM 7:241CO 2:141CO 15:9EPH 3:8PHP 3:121TI 1:152TI 4:2HEB 4:151JN 5:12J.C. Ryle emphasizes the profound humility of the Apostle Paul, who regarded himself as 'less than the least of all saints' while preaching the 'unsearchable riches of Christ' to the Gentiles. Ryle highlights that true humility is a hallmark of genuine faith, as those who are spiritually enlightened recognize their own shortcomings and the vastness of Christ's grace. He urges believers to appreciate the ministerial office as a vital and honorable calling, tasked with proclaiming the gospel and administering God's ordinances. Ultimately, Ryle calls for a deeper understanding of the unsearchable riches found in Christ, which encompass His person, work, and the abundant grace available to all who believe. He concludes by encouraging self-examination regarding one's view of oneself, ministers, and Christ Himself.
God's Way: Vision, Compassion and Prayer
By Paul Bassett0MAT 9:36LUK 6:12JHN 4:35JHN 17:41PE 2:10Paul Bassett preaches on the importance of seeing the world through God's eyes, emphasizing the need for restored vision and compassion in the church. He highlights how Christ's deep compassion for the lost stemmed from His spiritual vision, urging believers to view individuals beyond the surface and to feel for them through Christ's heart. Paul stresses the necessity of prayer for laborers in God's harvest, pointing out that compassion and vision are prerequisites for effective evangelism. He underscores that the ultimate goal of all prayers and preaching should be the glory of God, as exemplified by Jesus who glorified the Father by finishing the work assigned to Him.
The Last Adam
By John Follette0GEN 1:26ISA 55:11MAT 17:5JHN 17:41CO 15:45GAL 4:4PHP 2:6HEB 2:14John Follette preaches about the importance of man's power of choice in reflecting the likeness and image of God, emphasizing the process of testings and trials to develop Christian character. He discusses how the moral character of God is made manifest through the choices we make, leading to a growth into the likeness of God. Follette explores the failure of the first Adam and the redemption brought by the Last Adam, Jesus Christ, who perfectly displayed God's image and likeness through His obedience and sacrifice.
The Basis for Forgiveness
By Oswald Chambers0JHN 17:4GAL 3:13EPH 1:7HEB 2:17HEB 9:221PE 2:24Oswald Chambers emphasizes that the forgiveness of sins is not based on God's kindness alone, but on the sacrificial death of Jesus on the Cross. He warns against viewing God's forgiveness lightly, as it came at a great cost and should never be separated from the Atonement. Chambers stresses that God's forgiveness is a divine miracle of grace, only made possible through the supernatural realm of the Cross. He highlights that sanctification, though important, pales in comparison to the profound gratitude we should have for God's forgiveness of our sins, a truth that Paul never strayed from.
Spending Our Days as Is Represented in the Former Chapter
By Philip Doddridge0PSA 36:9PSA 112:1PSA 141:2PRO 23:17ISA 37:10AMO 8:7MAT 5:16MAT 6:13MRK 8:34MRK 12:30JHN 17:4ROM 12:111CO 10:311CO 15:582PE 1:11Philip Doddridge preaches about the importance of Christians aiming high in their spiritual life, not settling for mediocrity, but striving for a deep and intimate relationship with God. He emphasizes the reasonableness of such a life, considering our identity as God's creation and Christ's redemption, highlighting the comfort, usefulness, and eternal impact it brings. Doddridge also discusses the positive effects of this life on dealing with afflictions, facing death with peace, and preparing for eternity, stating that a lack of desire for improvement would indicate a lack of true religion.
Guidelines for the Godly Man
By Eli Brayley0GEN 4:6GEN 5:3LEV 19:28PSA 1:1PSA 5:3PSA 55:17PSA 103:2PRO 8:8PRO 10:11PRO 10:19PRO 15:3ISA 29:23MAT 5:16MAT 6:1MAT 12:37MAT 18:20MAT 23:25MRK 2:16LUK 3:11LUK 6:45LUK 12:57JHN 3:30JHN 14:5JHN 17:4JHN 17:15ACT 2:441CO 8:91CO 10:311CO 12:41CO 15:332CO 5:20GAL 2:20PHP 1:27PHP 3:81TI 4:82TI 2:21JAS 3:111PE 3:31PE 3:161JN 3:14Eli Brayley preaches on the calling of the man of God to live a life of full consecration, obedience, and service unto the Kingdom of God. The purpose of the man of God is to conform to the image of the Father, just as Jesus Christ did on earth, bringing glory to God in all things. This calling requires a solitary practice of devotion through regular study of the Word and prayer, done privately for God's eyes only. In the public sphere, the man of God must represent God on earth by displaying the fruit of the Spirit, maintaining an above-reproach lifestyle, and presenting Christ through every aspect of his being.
God Manifested and Glorified
By John Nelson Darby0The Nature of ChristRedemption and GloryJHN 17:4PHP 2:7John Nelson Darby emphasizes the profound nature of Jesus' mission, illustrating how He glorified God through His redemptive work while maintaining His role as a servant. He highlights the duality of Christ as both fully divine and fully human, showcasing God's love and grace manifested in the flesh. Darby explains that true communion with God comes through recognizing our need as sinners and accepting Christ's sacrifice, which allows us to partake in His glory. The sermon underscores the importance of understanding our identity as children of God and the significance of Christ's work in establishing a new relationship between humanity and the Father. Ultimately, Darby calls believers to live in the light of this truth, reflecting on the grace and glory of God revealed through Jesus.
The True Vine
By Steve Hulshizer0GEN 3:16ISA 5:7MAT 1:18JHN 3:3JHN 17:4ROM 3:12ROM 5:121CO 15:45Steve Hulshizer preaches about the fallen nature of man since Adam's rebellion, leading to a lineage tainted by sin and incapable of producing anything pleasing to God. Despite God's efforts with Israel, they failed to bring glory to Him, resulting in captivity and ultimately being set aside. The stage was set for the True Vine, Jesus Christ, to come and bear fruit for God, breaking the line of fallen humanity and offering a new beginning where His followers can bring glory to God.
John 17:1-5
By St. John Chrysostom0JHN 17:4John Chrysostom preaches on the importance of glorifying God through our actions, emphasizing the significance of enduring evil and seeking refuge in prayer. He highlights Jesus' willingness to be glorified through the Cross, showing that true wisdom is proven through works. Chrysostom explains that Jesus' prayer signifies His unity with the Father and His authority over all, extending salvation to all nations. He challenges believers to prioritize spiritual growth over material possessions, urging them to seek eternal life through humility and selflessness.
The Quality of Our Life Is More Important Than the Length of Our Life
By Zac Poonen0Quality of LifeFulfilling God's WillEXO 23:26PSA 91:16PSA 139:16ISA 38:1MRK 4:8JHN 17:4Zac Poonen emphasizes that the quality of our life, defined by fulfilling God's will, is far more important than its length. He illustrates that some can accomplish God's tasks in a shorter time than others, and that our earthly lifespan is predetermined by God, not by human standards. Poonen warns against the folly of seeking to extend life unnecessarily, as seen in Hezekiah's case, and encourages acceptance of God's will regarding our time on earth. He highlights that while we can pray for longevity, it should be with the intention of serving God more effectively. Ultimately, our focus should be on living a life that glorifies God through obedience and purpose.
The Spiritual Purpose and It's Attainment
By John Follette0PSA 40:7PRO 29:18JHN 4:34JHN 11:4JHN 11:43JHN 17:4ACT 16:71CO 10:31COL 3:171PE 4:11John Follette emphasizes the importance of knowing the purpose and vision in our daily lives, cautioning against carrying over careless habits from the past that may hinder the manifestation of God in our new life. He highlights the need to align our actions with God's will and purpose, focusing on glorifying God in all that we do. Follette stresses the significance of spiritual living governed by divine principles and the restraint or constraint that a clear vision provides. He encourages surrendering to God's will, trusting Him to shape our lives into a divine pattern that reflects His glory.
Living in the Will of God
By Zac Poonen0Dependence On GodLiving in God's WillPRO 3:5ECC 3:1ISA 28:16MAT 5:3MAT 7:21JHN 4:34JHN 5:19JHN 17:4ROM 11:36GAL 4:4Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of living in the will of God, illustrating how Jesus exemplified this through His complete dependence on the Father. He highlights that true poverty of spirit involves recognizing our insufficiency and submitting to God's timing and direction, as Jesus did throughout His life. Poonen points out that Jesus did not act on human initiative or need alone but waited for the Father's command, demonstrating that obedience to God's will is paramount. The sermon encourages believers to seek God's guidance in every aspect of life, prioritizing divine direction over human reasoning. Ultimately, Poonen reminds us that fulfilling God's will leads to eternal significance in the kingdom of heaven.
(God-Centered Praying) 3. the Glory of God's Name
By Zac Poonen0PSA 37:4MAL 3:16MAT 6:9LUK 18:1JHN 17:4ROM 6:14Zac Poonen preaches on the importance of prioritizing God's glory in prayer, emphasizing that our primary requests should be centered around honoring God's name and seeking His kingdom and will above our own needs. He highlights the root of sin as self-centeredness, tracing it back to Lucifer's rebellion and Adam's fall, and stresses the need for repentance to turn from a self-centered life to being centered in God. Poonen challenges believers to pray with right motives, desiring above all else for God's name to be glorified, even if it means personal sacrifice.
All Glory to God
By Miles J. Stanford0JHN 16:14JHN 17:4ROM 4:201CO 10:31COL 3:171PE 4:11Miles J. Stanford emphasizes the importance of living a life that glorifies God in all aspects, whether in our daily activities or ministry. He highlights the interconnectedness of the ministries of the Holy Spirit, the Son, and the Father in bringing glory to God. Stanford stresses the significance of abiding in the Son and being led by the Holy Spirit to truly reflect God's glory in our lives and service.
The Accepted Man
By John Nelson Darby0Transformation through the SpiritAcceptance in ChristLUK 10:27JHN 3:20JHN 17:4ACT 7:55ROM 5:202CO 3:2GAL 3:10EPH 2:2PHP 3:6HEB 1:3John Nelson Darby emphasizes the distinction between the accepted man, Jesus Christ, and the natural man, who is blind to his own condition and lacks the moral motives of Christ. He explains that true acceptance before God is found only in Christ, who embodies the character that God delights in, contrasting this with the self-seeking nature of humanity. Darby urges believers to recognize their identity as 'epistles of Christ,' transformed by the Spirit, and to find liberty in their relationship with God rather than fear. He highlights the futility of trying to attain heaven through the law, which only reveals sin and condemnation, and points to Christ as the Mediator who provides true acceptance. Ultimately, he calls for Christians to reflect Christ's love and character in their lives, becoming living testimonies of His grace.
When God Crashes the Party
By Denis Lyle0EXO 8:19EXO 31:18LEV 10:8DEU 29:6PSA 23:1PSA 90:12ISA 41:25ISA 44:28JER 17:3DAN 5:1LUK 11:20JHN 8:1JHN 17:4ROM 14:91CO 6:19GAL 5:21EPH 5:182TI 4:7Denis Lyle preaches on the story of Belshazzar in Daniel 5, highlighting the tragic dissipation and revelry at the royal feast, where intemperance, impropriety, impiety, and idolatry were prevalent. Belshazzar's defiance of God led to a supernatural message written on the wall, causing fear and a search for interpretation. Daniel, a consecrated, separated, and liberated man, was called to explain the mystery, revealing a prophecy of the kingdom's impending fall. The historic consummation shows the sovereignty of God's ways and the authenticity of His word in fulfilling His purposes.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I have glorified thee - Our Lord, considering himself as already sacrificed for the sin of the world, speaks of having completed the work which God had given him to do: and he looks forward to that time when, through the preaching of his Gospel, his sacrifice should be acknowledged, and the true God should be known and worshipped by the whole world.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I have glorified thee on the earth--rather, "I glorified" (for the thing is conceived as now past). I have finished--I finished. the work which thou gavest me to do--It is very important to preserve in the translation the past tense, used in the original, otherwise it might be thought that the work already "finished" was only what He had done before uttering that prayer; whereas it will be observed that our Lord speaks throughout as already beyond this present scene (Joh 17:12, &c.), and so must be supposed to include in His "finished work" the "decease which He was to accomplish at Jerusalem."
John Gill Bible Commentary
I have glorified thee on the earth,.... This is made use of as a reason and argument, why the Father should glorify him: Christ glorified his Father personally, as he held forth and expressed the glory of his person; and verbally, by ascribing, on all occasions, praise and glory to him; and really, or by deeds, and that by various ways: as in and by his ministry; by asserting he had his mission, qualifications, and doctrine, from him as a prophet; his principal work was to declare his Father's mind and will, his love and grace; nor did he seek his own, but his Father's glory: and by his miracles: for though these were proofs of his deity and Messiahship, and displays of his own glory; yet the glory of his Father, especially of his power, was eminently seen in them, for he referred them to him; and these were often the means of men's glorifying the God of Israel: and by his whole life and conversation, which was entirely according to the will of God; and every action of it was directed to his glory; particularly he glorified him by his early regard to his will, and the business he sent him about; by his zeal for his Father's house; and by the exercise of the various graces of faith, hope, and love upon him: and as by his life, so at his death, even all the while he was "on the earth"; where God had been dishonoured by the sin of men; where Christ now was debased in human nature, and even that was for the glory of God; and this is said in distinction from heaven, where God is glorified by the angels, and where Christ would shortly be glorified in his human nature: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do; by "the work" is meant obedience to the will of God; the destruction of all spiritual enemies, as sin, Satan, the world, and death; and the redemption and salvation of his people, which was "given" him to do: he did not take it upon himself, but being called to it he readily accepted of it; it was appointed, and cut out for him, in the council and covenant of grace; he was thoroughly acquainted with it; and though it was difficult, it was pleasant and delightful to him; nor did he leave it till he could say it is "finished"; as it was by himself alone, without the help of man; and is so complete that nothing can be added to it; and so firmly done, that it cannot be unravelled by men and devils: he speaks of it as done, because the time was come to finish it, and he was sure of the accomplishment of it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
17:4 Jesus’ miracles displayed God’s glory for the world to see (1:14). This task was finished; Jesus’ life and obedience had glorified God.