What does John 17:3 mean?

Explanation

John 17:3 conveys a central Christian belief concerning eternal life and the path to attain it.

The verse emphatically states that eternal life is not just about endless existence, but rather it is about a relationship, it is to know the only true God and Jesus Christ, whom God has sent.

The word 'know' in this context signifies an intimate and personal understanding, rather than mere intellectual assent. Eternal life, therefore, is not just a future state to be hoped for but a present reality that begins with a transformative knowledge of God and His Son.

Historical Context

This verse is part of what is commonly referred to as the "Farewell Discourse" and High Priestly Prayer of Jesus that takes place after the Last Supper and before Jesus' arrest.

It is part of a private conversation with His disciples in the Gospel of John, which is believed by scholars to have been written between 90 and 100 AD. The Gospel presents Jesus as the Word made flesh and emphasizes His divine identity and mission.

Theological Insights

From an orthodox Christian perspective, the verse asserts the divinity of Jesus Christ and His unique role in the revelation of God.

It reflects the Christian doctrine of the Trinity, God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, wherein the knowledge of God is intrinsically linked to the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Different Christian denominations may place varying emphases on this relationship, yet most agree on the necessity of knowing Jesus for salvation.

Other theological viewpoints, such as those of Unitarians, might interpret "knowing" in a non-Trinitarian framework and question traditional interpretations of divinity applied to Jesus.

Practical Applications

Practically speaking, John 17:3 invites individuals to cultivate a personal and intimate relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

It suggests that the essence of true spirituality and a meaningful faith is rooted in this relationship rather than in ritualistic practices or adherence to doctrine alone. For believers, it is a call to pursue a deeper understanding and connection with the divine as an ongoing, daily endeavor.

Cross-References

• 1 John 5:20: "And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ.

This is the true God, and eternal life."

• John 8:19: "Then said they unto him, Where is thy Father? Jesus answered, Ye neither know me, nor my Father: if ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also."
• John 14:6-7: "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
• Jeremiah 9:24: "But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word for 'know' is “γινώσκω” (ginōskō), which suggests more than just intellectual knowledge, it implies a relational, experiential, and personal understanding.

The term for 'eternal' is "αἰώνιος" (aiōnios), which translates to perpetual or everlasting, but also carries qualitative nuances concerning the life of the age to come.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Within the broader context of religious traditions, the concept of an eternal, infinite being conferring immortality or lasting knowledge upon humans is not unique to Christianity.

However, the Christian view highlights the necessity of a deep, personal relationship with the divine through a specific individual, Jesus Christ, which is distinct from many other faith traditions that may emphasize following a particular set of teachings or laws to attain ultimate reality or enlightenment.

Scientific Perspectives

Eternal life, as described in John 17:3, refers to a quality of existence and relationship, rather than a measurable, physical form of life.

Science, primarily concerned with material explanations, does not provide direct insights into the metaphysical aspects of eternal life, the existence of God, or the nature of personal knowledge of the divine.

Nevertheless, the psychological and sociological benefits of religious belief, including a sense of purpose and community, are subjects of scientific study.

Commentaries

Commentaries offer various interpretations of John 17:3.

Some emphasize the exclusivity of Christ as the mediator between God and humanity.

Others focus on the present aspect of eternal life, suggesting that it begins in the here and now rather than after death.

For instance, Matthew Henry’s commentary underscores the verse as a definition of eternal life that puts knowing God and Christ at its heart.

Theologians such as John Calvin have commented on the importance of this knowledge not being speculative, but a firm and certain understanding sealed in the believer's heart by the Holy Spirit.