Book of John - Chapter 17 - Verse 20
Meaning
In this verse, Jesus is expressing his deep care and love not only for his disciples who were with him at that moment but also for all those who would come to believe in him through their teachings. Jesus is demonstrating his intercessory role as a mediator between believers and God, highlighting the importance of prayer in the lives of his followers. By praying for those who would believe in him in the future, Jesus is showing the continuous and timeless nature of his love and grace. This verse emphasizes the inclusive and universal nature of Jesus' mission and the extension of his prayers to all who would hear and accept the message of salvation. As followers of Jesus, we are called to carry on this mission by spreading the good news of his love and praying for all those who have yet to believe in him.
Theological Overview
When looking at the theological interpretation of the verse, "Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word," one can see the inclusive nature of Jesus' prayer. In this passage from the Gospel of John, Jesus is praying not just for His immediate disciples, but for all those who would come to believe in Him through their teachings. This indicates Jesus' concern for the spread of His message and the growth of His followers even beyond His earthly ministry. It also highlights the importance of the disciples' role in sharing the Good News with others, leading to the expansion of the Christian faith. This verse emphasizes the interconnectedness of believers throughout history and underscores the significance of passing on the teachings and testimonies of those who came before us.