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John 17:21

KJV

That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.

Read it in context Prayer for future believers
Start reading at John 17:20 (John 17:20 to John 17:26). An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.

The prayer widens to those who will believe through the disciples' word, joining their unity and love with the world's recognition of Jesus' mission.

  1. 17:20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
  2. 17:21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.
  3. 17:22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:
  4. 17:23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
  5. 17:24 Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.
  6. 17:25 O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.
  7. 17:26 And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.

Who

What

When

Where

How

Cited: John 17:20, John 17:26, John 1:14, John 8:31, John 14:15, John 20:31

Who wrote it, and how we know

John the apostle Named in Scripture
What Scripture saysThe book identifies its author as the disciple who testifies of these things and wrote them. John 21:24John 21:20
Early traditionEarly testimony, notably Irenaeus, names John the apostle.
What is debated

There is substantial early Christian tradition supporting John the son of Zebedee—James’s brother—as the authority behind the Gospel, but it is not the same kind of evidence as having a signed first-century manuscript saying “I, John son of Zebedee, wrote this.” The case is cumulative, built from internal evidence in the Gospel plus external testimony from early Christians. There are also real reasons scholars debate it.

Related passages

Cross references from CrossReferences-org (CC BY 4.0).

Macro-Structure

See how this passage fits the chapter and the book.

John

The Gospel states that its signs are written so readers may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and have life through His name. Read its claims about belief alongside its calls to receive His word, continue in it, and follow Him.

John 20:30 John 20:31 John 8:31

The Word made flesh
John 1:1–18

FocusRevelation and life

Connection to the wholeThe opening identifies the Word and His coming in flesh, providing the frame for the testimony and encounters that follow.
interpretation
The first signs and witnesses
John 1:19–4:54

FocusReceiving Jesus' revelation

Connection to the wholeEarly signs and conversations disclose Jesus' identity while distinguishing superficial response from receiving His testimony.
interpretation
Works, teaching, and division
John 5:1–10:42

FocusLife, light, and the shepherd

Connection to the wholeJesus' signs and explanations provoke belief and hostility, developing the question of who He is and how His voice is received.
interpretation
The approach of the hour
John 11:1–12:50

FocusLazarus, Jerusalem, and the coming death

Connection to the wholeThe raising of Lazarus intensifies the plot, and Jesus interprets His approaching death as His hour comes into view.
interpretation
Jesus and His disciples
John 13:1–17:26 You are here · 17:21

FocusLove, abiding, and prayer

Connection to the wholeThe farewell teaching prepares the disciples for His departure, the Comforter, opposition, and continuing life and witness in Him.
interpretation
Death, resurrection, and testimony
John 18:1–21:25

FocusThe finished work and risen Lord

Connection to the wholeThe passion and resurrection accounts lead to the Gospel's stated purpose and Jesus' renewed charge to His followers.
interpretation

Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.

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