In His prayer, Jesus describes the disciples as people whom the Father has given to Him out of the world. They belonged to the Father, were given to the Son, received the words Jesus gave them, and came to believe that Jesus had been sent by the Father.
Jesus in Context
The Disciples Given to Jesus and Receiving His Words
Jesus describes His disciples as people given to Him by the Father who have received the Father's word and recognized that Jesus was sent by God.
Introduction
Historical and Cultural Context
The language of giving and receiving is characteristic of John. Jesus repeatedly presents His mission, authority, works, teaching, and followers as originating with the Father rather than independently with Himself.
Likewise, to 'receive' Jesus' words means more than merely hearing them. In John, receiving Jesus' revelation involves recognizing its divine origin and responding to the One who sent Him.
Why It Matters
These verses explain how Jesus understands the identity of His disciples. Their relationship to Him is rooted in the Father's initiative, while their response is expressed through receiving and keeping the revelation Jesus has brought. Their growing recognition that Jesus came from and was sent by the Father is central to Johannine discipleship.