Albert Barnes' Insights

Barnes emphasizes the relational dynamic highlighted in this passage. He notes that Jesus identifies God as a "righteous Father," signifying a relationship grounded in inherent justice and moral rectitude. This acknowledgment leads to the implication that the world's failure to recognize God stems from its moral blindness.

• Righteousness of God: Barnes explains that the term "righteous" implies that God cannot condone sin and must punish iniquity, leading humanity to misunderstand His nature.
• Knowledge of God: Jesus asserts that He knows God intimately. This knowledge is relational and experiential, contrasting with the superficial understanding of God possessed by the world.
• Revelation of God: The acknowledgment of Jesus by His disciples, as opposed to the world's ignorance, is notable. Barnes articulates that the disciples' belief signifies a transformational knowledge that arises from faith.

Matthew Henry's Insights

Matthew Henry offers a pastoral angle, reflecting on the implications of knowing God. He sees the phrase "O righteous Father" as an address that reveals Jesus' intimate relationship with God, underscoring the theme of divine righteousness.

• Intimacy in Prayer: Henry points out that this prayer exemplifies the deep communion Jesus shares with the Father, indicative of His role as Mediator between God and humanity.
• The Ignorance of the World: The world’s inability to know God is rooted in its rebellion and sin. Henry shares that, despite the general revelation of God in creation, many choose to ignore the truth.
• Disciples as Witnesses: The phrase "and these have known" refers to Jesus' followers who have experienced the revelation and mission of God through Christ. This highlights the responsibility of believers to share this knowledge.

Adam Clarke’s Insights

Adam Clarke adds a theological and doctrinal dimension to this verse, focusing on the implications for understanding God’s nature and His relationship with humanity.

• Distinction of Knowledge: Clarke emphasizes the contrast between Christ's knowledge of God and the world's ignorance, suggesting that divine revelation is essential for true knowledge.
• Universal Ignorance: He notes that the worldly perception of God is often marred by misconceptions and false representations, calling for a deeper exploration of Scripture to understand God's attributes.
• Implications for Faith: Clarke asserts that a genuine relationship with God begins with this knowledge, which leads to a transformative faith. Knowledge of God is not just intellectual but involves trust and commitment.