What does John 17:16 mean?

Explanation

John 17:16 is a part of what is known as Jesus' High Priestly Prayer, which is recorded in the seventeenth chapter of the Gospel of John in the New Testament.

This verse exemplifies the theme of Jesus' prayer, which centers on the distinction between His followers and the world around them.

When Jesus says, "They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world," He is expressing how His disciples are distinct in their identity and purpose, just as He Himself is distinct from the worldly systems and values.

In a literal sense, Jesus is not claiming that His disciples are extraterrestrial or otherworldly beings; rather, He is speaking in metaphorical terms, emphasizing a spiritual difference.

They, like Jesus, are in the world but do not belong to it in the sense of sharing its priorities, ways of life, or value systems.

The deeper meaning often discussed concerns the spiritual orientation of the disciples.

They are called to live by the principles of God's kingdom and carry out the mission of Jesus, rather than conforming to the norms and expectations of the society in which they live.

Historical Context

The Gospel of John was written in a context where early Christians were starting to face opposition and even persecution from both Jewish and Roman authorities.

This prayer is set during the last night before Jesus' crucifixion, where He prays for Himself, His disciples, and future believers.

In this context, Jesus’ emphasis on not being "of the world" may have had a particular resonance for the early Christians, serving as a reinforcement of their distinct identity and as an encouragement in the face of external pressures.

This verse reflects the tension between the Christian community and the larger society, a tension that was marked by differing beliefs, ethical standards, and social practices.

The followers of Jesus were challenged to maintain their allegiance to Christ's teachings while living within a society that often had conflicting values.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, John 17:16 raises questions about the relationship between Christians and society.

One view, the so-called dualistic approach, posits that Christians are to live in complete separation from worldly affairs.

Another perspective, often called incarnational theology, emphasizes the idea that Christians are to engage with and transform the world by living out God's love and truth within it.

Moreover, theologians often discuss how this verse relates to the notion of sanctification, that believers are set apart for God’s service, and how this separation is not so much about physical withdrawal from society as it is about spiritual difference and mission.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, John 17:16 suggests that followers of Jesus should take inventory of their lives to ensure that their values, actions, and decisions are not simply reflections of prevailing cultural norms but are instead informed by their understanding of Jesus' teachings and character.

This might mean choosing honesty over deceit, generosity over greed, or forgiveness over vengeance, choices that can set one apart in various societal contexts.

The verse also can be understood as a call to community, where believers support each other in striving to live out their distinct identity in Christ.

It may also encourage engagement with the world through the lens of Jesus' love and message, in order to serve and impact the world positively, rather than merely withdrawing from it.

Cross-References

• John 15:19: "If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you."
• Romans 12:2: "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
• James 4:4: "Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God."

Language Study

In the original Greek, the phrase "they are not of the world" uses the word "ek" (ἐκ), which indicates origin or source.

The use of "ek" in relation to "the world" ("kosmou" - κόσμου) is significant; it suggests that while the disciples are physically present within the world, their source, guidance, and ultimate allegiance are not rooted in it.

The term "world" (kosmos) in Johannine literature often refers to the realm of human society organized in opposition to God.

Thus, in this passage, Jesus is distinguishing his disciples from the broader moral and spiritual system of the world.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other religious traditions, the idea of being "not of this world" also resonates.

In Buddhism, there is a concept of detachment from worldly desires as a path to enlightenment.

In Hinduism, the world of maya, or illusion, is seen as something to transcend in order to achieve true understanding of the self and the divine.

In ancient myths, heroes are often set apart from the world, either by divine parentage or by undertaking quests that elevate them above ordinary human concerns.

Such narratives speak to a common human fascination with the idea of living in accordance with a higher calling or different set of principles than those of the surrounding culture.

Scientific Perspectives

Science predominantly addresses empirical claims about the world and does not directly speak to metaphysical or spiritual consternations of "not being of this world." However, the scientific community generally supports the principle of critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making, which in a broad sense might be seen as a call to not simply accept the status quo but to question and understand the world to improve it.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians offer additional insights into John 17:16.

William Barclay notes that John frequently emphasizes the contrast between the Christian and the world, suggesting that the Christian's ultimate loyalty is to a different standard and king, Jesus.

D.A.

Carson posits that John's Gospel illustrates how believers are "alien citizens" in the world, and this verse strengthens that understanding.

Some commentaries also discuss the pastoral aspects of Jesus' prayer, indicating that being "not of the world" is a source of both solace and challenge for believers, who are reassured of their belonging to Christ yet face the difficulties of living out that belonging in a world that does not share their commitments.