John 17:16
What does John 17:16 mean?
A plain-English look at John 17:16 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 17:16 means
Jesus reiterates the spiritual distinction of His disciples: they are "not of the world," just as He Himself is not of the world. This repetition emphasizes their unique identity and calling, reinforcing the reason for the world's hatred and the necessity of divine protection. Their spiritual citizenship lies elsewhere, but their physical dwelling remains in the world, creating an ongoing tension that only God's preserving power can manage.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
KJV
King James Version · 1611They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949They are not of the world any more than I am of the world.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862`Of the world they are not, as I of the world am not;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752They are not of the world, as I also am not of the world.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890They are not of the world, as I am not of the world.
Context
This verse serves as a forceful reiteration of the theological foundation established in verse 14, reinforcing the distinct identity of believers. It undergirds Jesus' prayer in verse 15 regarding protection from the evil one, effectively summarizing *why* they need that specific safeguarding. This repeated emphasis sets the immediate context for Jesus' next crucial request: their sanctification.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- John 17:14
I have given them thy word; and the world hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
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