JOHN 17:6–10
“I HAVE REVEALED YOUR NAME”: JESUS PRAYS FOR HIS DISCIPLES
Text – John 17:6–10
6 “I revealed your name to those whom you gave me out of the world. They belonged to you, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word.
7 Now they know that everything you gave me is from you,
8 because the words you gave to me I have given to them, and they accepted them and truly understood that I came from you, and they have believed that you sent me.
9 I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for the ones you have given me, because they are yours,
10 and everything of mine is yours and everything of yours is mine, and I have been glorified in them.”
Historical and Jewish Context
In biblical Judaism, to “reveal the name” of God meant to make God’s character, will, and covenant faithfulness known, not merely to pronounce a title. God had revealed His Name to Israel progressively—from the patriarchs to Moses—but now Jesus claims to reveal it fully. The idea of disciples being “given” by the Father reflects Jewish understanding of divine election. Prayer of intercession by a leader on behalf of his followers echoes priestly and prophetic traditions, especially before moments of crisis.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage highlights Jesus’ role as mediator and High Priest. Catholic theology teaches that Christ reveals the Father perfectly through His words and person. The disciples’ faith is a gift rooted in divine initiative, yet it requires human response—“they have kept your word.” Jesus’ prayer is not exclusionary but focused: He intercedes especially for those entrusted to Him, the nucleus of the Church. The mutual belonging of Father and Son affirms Trinitarian unity, and Christ’s glory is already present in the faithful who receive and live the revealed word.
Parallels in Scripture
Exodus 3:13–15 – God revealing His Name.
Deuteronomy 29:28 – God revealing His will to His people.
John 1:18 – The Son making the Father known.
Hebrews 7:25 – Christ interceding for believers.
1 John 2:3–5 – Knowing God through keeping His word.
Key Terms
Revealed your name – Making the Father fully known.
Given to me – Divine election and mission.
Kept your word – Faith expressed in obedience.
Sent – Christ’s divine mission.
Glorified in them – God’s glory reflected in believers.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This Gospel is proclaimed during the Easter season, especially near the Ascension. The Church reflects on her identity as a community formed by God’s word and sustained by Christ’s intercession.
Conclusion
John 17:6–10 reveals the deep bond between the Father, the Son, and the disciples. Jesus prays for those who have received and believed the word, showing that the Church is born from divine revelation, sustained by obedience, and glorified through communion with Christ.
Reflection
Do I truly receive and keep the word Christ has given me?
Am I conscious of belonging first to God before the world?
How does Christ’s intercessory prayer strengthen my faith?
Prayer
Father of holiness, You have revealed Your name through Your Son. Help me to keep Your word faithfully and to live as one who belongs to You. May Christ be glorified in my life, and may I remain always within His prayer. Amen.