Introduction

The prayer of Jesus for Himself is a profound moment recorded in the Gospel of John, specifically in John 17:1-5. This passage is part of what is commonly referred to as the High Priestly Prayer, where Jesus, on the eve of His crucifixion, prays to the Father. This prayer reveals the intimate relationship between Jesus and the Father and highlights key theological themes such as glory, authority, and eternal life.

Context

The setting of this prayer is the Upper Room, following the Last Supper, as Jesus prepares His disciples for His impending departure. This prayer marks the culmination of His farewell discourse, where He has been instructing and comforting His disciples. The prayer is divided into three parts: Jesus prays for Himself (John 17:1-5), for His disciples (John 17:6-19), and for all believers (John 17:20-26).

Textual Analysis

1. Glorification of the Son and the Father (John 17:1-2)

Jesus begins His prayer by lifting His eyes to heaven and addressing the Father, saying, "Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son may glorify You." (John 17:1). The "hour" refers to the appointed time of His suffering, death, and subsequent resurrection. Jesus requests glorification, not for self-exaltation, but so that the Father may be glorified through the fulfillment of His redemptive plan.

In verse 2, Jesus acknowledges the authority given to Him by the Father: "For You granted Him authority over all humanity, so that He may give eternal life to all those You have given Him." This authority underscores Jesus' divine mission and His role as the mediator of eternal life.

2. Definition of Eternal Life (John 17:3)

Jesus provides a profound definition of eternal life: "Now this is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent." (John 17:3). Eternal life is characterized by a relational knowledge of God and Jesus Christ. This knowledge is not merely intellectual but involves a deep, personal relationship with the divine.

3. Completion of the Work (John 17:4)

Jesus reflects on His earthly ministry, stating, "I have glorified You on earth by accomplishing the work You gave Me to do." (John 17:4). This declaration highlights Jesus' obedience and faithfulness in fulfilling the Father's will. The work includes His teachings, miracles, and ultimately, His sacrificial death on the cross.

4. Request for Pre-Incarnate Glory (John 17:5)

Jesus concludes this section of the prayer with a request: "And now, Father, glorify Me in Your presence with the glory I had with You before the world existed." (John 17:5). Here, Jesus alludes to His pre-incarnate existence and divine nature. He seeks the restoration of the glory He shared with the Father before His incarnation, signifying His return to the heavenly realm following His redemptive mission.

Theological Implications

The prayer of Jesus for Himself is rich with theological significance. It affirms the pre-existence and divinity of Christ, His role as the mediator of eternal life, and the mutual glorification between the Father and the Son. This passage also emphasizes the centrality of the cross in God's redemptive plan and the ultimate purpose of Jesus' mission: to reveal the Father and offer eternal life to humanity.

Conclusion

The prayer of Jesus for Himself in John 17:1-5 offers a glimpse into the heart of the Savior as He prepares to complete His earthly mission. It underscores the themes of glory, authority, and eternal life, providing believers with a deeper understanding of the relationship between the Father and the Son and the significance of Christ's redemptive work.