This section is part of the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus. Jesus lets his disciples hear this prayer so they will have joy (v. 13). He prays for them because he is bodily leaving, and they must remain in a hostile world. In a sense, they are commissioned “behind enemy lines.”

Jesus leaves his disciples covered in prayer.

The world is not neutral. It is under the control of Satan (see 1 John 5:19 & Ephesians 2:2). John uses the word “world” 11 times in today’s passage and 80 times in his Gospel. In most cases it is used negatively, referring to society at large which is in rebellion against God and living by different values and standards. It’s certainly not submitted to the rule of God and is often hateful toward him and his followers. So Jesus prays for them.

He prays the words “keep” and “sanctify.” He asks the Father to keep them in his name (v.11), which means in accordance with the character, values and identity of the Father. He also prays for God to keep them from the Evil One (v.15), because there is an enemy personally wanting to destroy them.

Jesus sets this prayer off by telling the disciples that he has overcome the world (16:33). He did so by his death and resurrection. His prayer states, “I have consecrated myself,” which means “set apart for the holy work of God.” On the cross, Jesus defeated the world, the flesh (sin) and the devil as the baptism liturgy teaches.

Taking It Home: Don’t be deceived to think society is neutral. It’s under Satan’s influence. Submit your ways to God through repentance and faith so you can be “in the world but not of it.”

Family Question: Why do many people not like Jesus' followers?