John 17:5

John 17:5 (KJV) says: “And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.”

This verse is part of a larger passage known as the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus. In this prayer, Jesus is communicating with His Father, God, just before His crucifixion. John 17 contains some of the most profound and intimate words spoken by Jesus during His earthly ministry.

In verse 5, Jesus is requesting the Father to glorify Him with the same glory He had with Him before the world existed. This verse reveals several important truths:

Preexistence of Jesus:Jesus affirms His preexistence before the world was created. He existed in glory with the Father before His incarnation as a human being. This verse emphasizes the eternal nature of Jesus as the Son of God.

Unity with the Father:Jesus expresses His desire to be glorified with the Father’s own self. This highlights the deep and intimate relationship between Jesus and God the Father. The request for glorification indicates the unity and oneness between the Father and the Son.

Jesus’ Sacrifice and Redemption:By asking for glory, Jesus acknowledges that His earthly ministry and sacrifice on the cross are essential for the redemption of humanity. His request for glory is closely connected to His impending crucifixion and resurrection, which would ultimately bring glory to God.

Jesus as the Mediator:Throughout the High Priestly Prayer, Jesus intercedes on behalf of His disciples and all believers who would come after them. In verse 5, Jesus is not only praying for Himself but also fulfilling His role as the Mediator between God and humanity. His request for glory is ultimately for the benefit of His followers.

This verse serves as a reminder of Jesus’ divinity, His mission on Earth, and His eternal relationship with the Father. It points to His imminent sacrifice and the redemptive plan of God for humanity. By studying this verse and the entire High Priestly Prayer, we gain insights into Jesus’ heart and His deep desire for unity, glory, and salvation.

As you reflect on John 17:5, consider the profound love and commitment Jesus displayed by willingly leaving the glory of heaven to come to Earth and accomplish God’s plan of salvation.