John 17:5

Definition

John 17:5 is a verse from the New Testament where Jesus, in prayer to God the Father, requests to be glorified with the glory He had before the world existed. This statement is critical as it highlights key aspects of Christology, specifically relating to the divine nature of Jesus and His pre-existence, affirming His identity as both fully human and fully divine.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. John 17:5 is part of the High Priestly Prayer, which is a significant moment where Jesus intercedes for His disciples and all believers.
2. This verse underscores the concept of Jesus' pre-existence, indicating that He shared divine glory with the Father before His earthly ministry.
3. The request for glorification signifies Jesus' impending sacrifice and its importance in redeeming humanity, linking it to themes of suffering and glory.
4. Understanding this verse is essential for grasping the dual nature of Christ, highlighting how He is both fully divine and fully human simultaneously.
5. The theological implications of John 17:5 have been foundational in discussions about the nature of Christ in early Christian councils and debates regarding Christology.

Review Questions

• How does John 17:5 contribute to our understanding of Jesus' dual nature as both divine and human?
  • John 17:5 illustrates Jesus’ request for glory, emphasizing His divine nature by affirming His existence with God before creation. This statement shows that while Jesus lived on earth as a human, He retained His divine identity. It helps us see that He wasn't just a prophet or teacher but was fully God, establishing the foundation for understanding His role in salvation.
• In what ways does John 17:5 reflect the significance of the relationship between Jesus and God the Father within the framework of the Trinity?
  • John 17:5 reflects the intimate relationship between Jesus and God the Father by expressing a desire for restored glory that they shared prior to creation. This connection highlights the unity within the Trinity, where each person maintains distinct roles yet acts in harmony. It emphasizes that Jesus’ mission on earth was part of a divine plan involving His relationship with the Father.
• Evaluate how John 17:5 has influenced theological discussions regarding Christ's eternal sonship and its implications for modern Christian beliefs.
  • John 17:5 has been pivotal in shaping theological discussions about Christ's eternal sonship by asserting that Jesus existed with God before time. This understanding has implications for modern Christian beliefs regarding salvation and the nature of God. By recognizing Jesus as eternally divine, believers affirm that His sacrifice carries infinite value and that He remains an essential part of God's redemptive plan throughout history.

Related terms

Incarnation:

The Christian doctrine that God became flesh in the person of Jesus Christ, embodying both divine and human natures.

Trinity:

The Christian doctrine that defines God as three consubstantial persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit, each fully God while remaining distinct.

Eternal Sonship: The belief that Jesus has always existed as the Son of God, affirming His divine nature and relationship with God the Father before creation.