King James Version

What Does John 17:2 Mean?

“As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.”

Context

These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee:

As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.

And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.

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Topics in This Verse

Eternal Life

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(2) **As thou hast given him power over all flesh.**—Better, *According as thou gavest Him* . . . This is the ground on which the prayer in John 17:1 is based. (Comp. John 10:36; John 13:3.) The glory for which He asks is in accordance with the decree which appointed His Messianic work. “All flesh” represents a Greek translation of a Hebrew phrase. It occurs again in Matthew 24:22; Mark 13:20; Luke 3:6; Acts 2:17; Romans 3:20; 1Corinthians 1:29; 1Corinthians 15:39; Galatians 2:16; 1Peter 1:24. St. John uses it in this place only. Its especial signification is humanity as such, considered in its weakness and imperfection. **That he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.**—Literally, *That all whom thou gavest Him, He may give to them eternal life.* (Comp. John 17:6, and Note on John 6:37 *et seq.*) The word “all” is in the Greek a neuter singular, and signifies collectively the whole body of humanity given to Christ. The word for “to them” is masculine and plural, and signifies the individual reception on the part of those to whom eternal life is given. (Comp. Notes on John 6:39-40.)

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 17:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.