New Testament · Gospel

John 17:3

Jesus Prays

Now this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent. John 17:3 · Berean Standard Bible
What It Means

John 17:3, in plain English

Jesus defines eternal life in the most beautiful way: it's knowing God—truly, personally knowing the Father and knowing Jesus whom He sent.

Why it's here

Eternal life isn't just about living forever; it's about a living relationship. Jesus says the heart of everything is knowing God intimately and personally.

Who's speaking

Jesus speaks this definition as part of His prayer to the Father.

Where it sits in the story

Jesus gives us the clearest definition of eternal life in the Bible. It's not a ticket to heaven—it's an ever-deepening relationship with the Father and the Son.

A Closer Look

The scholarly reading

Jesus defines eternal life not as mere duration of existence but as relational knowledge of the only true God and His sent Messiah.

Language and setting

The Greek 'ginoskosi' (to know) implies experiential, intimate knowledge, not merely intellectual awareness. This definition of eternal life as relationship rather than longevity is distinctly Johannine.

Voice

Jesus provides a theological definition within His prayer.

Significance

In the middle of His prayer, Jesus pauses to define eternal life: it is knowing God personally and knowing Jesus Christ whom God sent. Relationship, not religion, is the essence.

In context

John 17:1–5

1When Jesus had spoken these things, He lifted up His eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son may glorify You.

2For You granted Him authority over all people, so that He may give eternal life to all those You have given Him.

3Now this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.

4I have glorified You on earth by accomplishing the work You gave Me to do.

5And now, Father, glorify Me in Your presence with the glory I had with You before the world existed.

Read all of John 17 — You get to overhear Jesus praying to the Father. He prays for His disciples — and then He prays for you.

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