Commentary on John 17:4

Verse Under Review: John 17:4 - "I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do."

Introduction

This verse is part of the high priestly prayer of Jesus, where He lifts His eyes to heaven and seeks the glory of the Father through the completion of His work. In this context, we observe Jesus affirming that He has accomplished His mission, thus establishing a model for believers in their pursuit of God's will.

Exegesis and Theological Insights

In analyzing this verse, we draw from several esteemed public domain commentaries to provide comprehensive insights.

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry highlights that this verse reflects the fulfillment of the divine mission entrusted to Jesus. He notes that “to have glorified God is to have revealed His character and attributes.” Henry emphasizes that Jesus’s earthly ministry was a demonstration of God's glory manifested through His teachings and miracles. He concludes that the work that Jesus mentions includes the entirety of His life’s endeavor, culminating in His sacrifice, which serves as the ultimate means of glorifying God.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Barnes elucidates that “I have finished the work” indicates both completion and the perfection of Christ’s mission. He expounds that this indicates a missionary aspect, showing the importance of Jesus's teachings as part of His work. Barnes encourages the reader to consider that Jesus was deeply aware of the mission given by the Father, and in returning to Him, He affirms the achievement of that mission. He suggests that for believers, this verse serves as an encouragement that one’s faithfulness in God’s work contributes to the overall purpose and glory of God.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Clarke expands on the phrase “I have glorified thee,” noting that Jesus’s ministry was aimed explicitly at glorifying the Father. He emphasizes that the glorification involves both action and intent—demonstrating obedience to God’s will. Clarke further discusses the implications of “the work which thou gavest me to do,” suggesting that each believer has their own unique work ordained by God, paralleling the mission of Christ. This highlights the individual responsibility to fulfill God’s calling, which glorifies Him in the same manner that Christ has done.

Key Themes

• Glorifying God: The primary theme centers on the reflection of God's glory through Jesus's actions and teachings.
• Completeness of Mission: Jesus emphasizes the completion of His earthly mission, showcasing an important theological concept of fulfillment in God's plan.
• Call to Obedience: The work given to Jesus serves as a model for believers to seek out and fulfill their own divine assignments.

Practical Applications

This scripture encourages believers to reflect on their lives and the missions entrusted to them by God. It invites pastors, students, theologians, and scholars to consider the following applications:

• Self-Reflection: Take time to assess how one’s life has glorified God in both actions and intentions.
• Perseverance in Mission: Encourage steadfastness in pursuing God’s work despite challenges, as demonstrated by Jesus.
• Commitment to God’s Will: Understanding that each believer’s work is significant in the greater mission of God’s kingdom.

Conclusion

John 17:4 serves as a profound reminder of Jesus's commitment to fulfilling the Father's will and glorifying Him through observable actions. As examined through the lenses of respected theological commentators, the depth of insights presents a rich tapestry for understanding God’s plan through Christ. Believers are invited to emulate this example in their quest to honor God through their lives and ministries, recognizing the significant role each person plays in the unfolding narrative of faith.