This verse, John 17:18, is part of Jesus' High Priestly Prayer in John 17. To understand its meaning, it's helpful to look at the surrounding context:
Jesus' Relationship with the Father: Jesus is praying to God the Father. He emphasizes their deep unity and how the Father sent him (Jesus) into the world.
The Disciples: Jesus is also praying for his disciples, whom he has chosen and taught.
Mission and Purpose: The key idea is the sending and the purpose behind it.
Meaning of John 17:18:
"As you sent me into the world, even so I have sent them into the world."
"As you sent me into the world..." This refers to the Father's mission for Jesus. Jesus' purpose was to reveal God, teach the truth, live a perfect life, die for the sins of humanity, and rise again. He was sent to offer salvation and reconciliation with God. Jesus was sent by the Father to accomplish something specific.
"...even so I have sent them into the world." This means Jesus is sending his disciples (and by extension, all believers) into the world with a similar purpose, though not in the same identical way.
Here's a breakdown of the implications:
Continuing the Mission: The disciples are being commissioned to continue the work that Jesus began. This involves:
Sharing the Gospel: Spreading the message of salvation and God's love.
Living as Witnesses: Showing the world what it means to follow Jesus through their actions, love, and character.
Serving Others: Demonstrating compassion and helping those in need, reflecting Jesus' own ministry.
Empowerment: Jesus isn't sending them out unprepared. He promises the Holy Spirit (later in John's Gospel) to empower them to fulfill their mission. They are to go with the same authority, and anointing as Jesus was sent with.
A Counter-Cultural Calling: Being "sent into the world" implies that believers are called to live differently from the world's values and norms. They are to be a light in the darkness, influencing the world for good.
Cost: Just as Jesus faced opposition and hardship, so too will his followers. The world may not welcome their message or lifestyle.
In essence, John 17:18 highlights the continuity of God's mission. Jesus was sent by the Father to redeem the world, and he now sends his followers to participate in that same mission by sharing the Gospel, demonstrating God's love, and living as witnesses to His truth.
Important Considerations:
Not a Perfect Parallel: While there's a parallel, it's crucial to note that the disciples' mission is derived from Jesus' mission. They are not the saviors of the world; Jesus is. They are ambassadors, representatives of Christ.
Individual Calling: While the overall mission is the same (to make disciples), the specific ways in which individuals are called to participate may vary greatly depending on their gifts, talents, and circumstances.
Ongoing Relevance: This verse is not just for the original disciples. It's a call to action for all Christians to consider how they can be a part of God's mission in the world today.
This verse, John 17:18, is part of Jesus' High Priestly Prayer in John 17. To understand its meaning, it's helpful to look at the surrounding context:
Jesus' Relationship with the Father: Jesus is praying to God the Father. He emphasizes their deep unity and how the Father sent him (Jesus) into the world.
The Disciples: Jesus is also praying for his disciples, whom he has chosen and taught.
Mission and Purpose: The key idea is the sending and the purpose behind it.
Meaning of John 17:18:
"As you sent me into the world, even so I have sent them into the world."
"As you sent me into the world..." This refers to the Father's mission for Jesus. Jesus' purpose was to reveal God, teach the truth, live a perfect life, die for the sins of humanity, and rise again. He was sent to offer salvation and reconciliation with God. Jesus was sent by the Father to accomplish something specific.
"...even so I have sent them into the world." This means Jesus is sending his disciples (and by extension, all believers) into the world with a similar purpose, though not in the same identical way.
Here's a breakdown of the implications:
Continuing the Mission: The disciples are being commissioned to continue the work that Jesus began. This involves:
Sharing the Gospel: Spreading the message of salvation and God's love.
Living as Witnesses: Showing the world what it means to follow Jesus through their actions, love, and character.
Serving Others: Demonstrating compassion and helping those in need, reflecting Jesus' own ministry.
Empowerment: Jesus isn't sending them out unprepared. He promises the Holy Spirit (later in John's Gospel) to empower them to fulfill their mission. They are to go with the same authority, and anointing as Jesus was sent with.
A Counter-Cultural Calling: Being "sent into the world" implies that believers are called to live differently from the world's values and norms. They are to be a light in the darkness, influencing the world for good.
Cost: Just as Jesus faced opposition and hardship, so too will his followers. The world may not welcome their message or lifestyle.
In essence, John 17:18 highlights the continuity of God's mission. Jesus was sent by the Father to redeem the world, and he now sends his followers to participate in that same mission by sharing the Gospel, demonstrating God's love, and living as witnesses to His truth.
Important Considerations:
Not a Perfect Parallel: While there's a parallel, it's crucial to note that the disciples' mission is derived from Jesus' mission. They are not the saviors of the world; Jesus is. They are ambassadors, representatives of Christ.
Individual Calling: While the overall mission is the same (to make disciples), the specific ways in which individuals are called to participate may vary greatly depending on their gifts, talents, and circumstances.
Ongoing Relevance: This verse is not just for the original disciples. It's a call to action for all Christians to consider how they can be a part of God's mission in the world today.