Jesus speaks from the perspective of His approaching departure: He will no longer remain in the world in the same way, but His disciples will. He therefore asks the 'Holy Father' to keep them in the Father's name, just as Jesus Himself has guarded them during His earthly ministry.
Jesus in Context
Keep Them in Your Name
As Jesus anticipates leaving the world while His disciples remain in it, He asks the Holy Father to preserve those entrusted to Him.
Introduction
Historical and Cultural Context
In biblical thought, a name can represent far more than a verbal label. God's name is associated with His revealed identity, authority, reputation, and covenant relationship with His people. To be kept in the Father's name therefore concerns preservation within allegiance to and relationship with the God whom Jesus has revealed.
The address 'Holy Father' combines the language of intimate relationship with the biblical affirmation of God's holiness and uniqueness.
Why It Matters
Jesus anticipates a transition in the disciples' experience. His visible earthly presence with them is approaching its end, but they are not abandoned. The preserving care Jesus exercised during His ministry becomes the subject of His prayer to the Father.