King James Version
What Does John 17:19 Mean?
“And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. sanctified: or, truly sanctified”
Context
17
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
18
As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.
19
And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. sanctified: or, truly sanctified
20
Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
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.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(19) **And for their sakes I sanctify myself.**—Comp. Note on John 17:17. The consecration here thought of is that to the work which was immediately before Him—the offering Himself as a sacrifice. The word was in frequent use in the special sense of an offering or sacrifice set apart to God. As a New Testament example of this, comp. Romans 15:16. By this consecration of Himself—which in a wider sense is for all men, but in the special sense is “for their sakes”—He will, as both Priest and Sacrifice, enter into the Holy of Holies of the heavenly temple, and will send the Holy Ghost, who will consecrate them.
**That they also might be sanctified through the truth.**—Better, as in the margin, . . . . *might be truly sanctified.* The words “they also” are emphatic, answering to “their sakes” and “myself” in the preceding clause.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
John 17:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to John 17:19
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge