Is it True in John 17:1-5 that Jesus is Claiming to be God in a Clever Way? If So, How?

The verses at John 17:1–5 are part of a sincere prayer to his heavenly Father, revealing how Jesus views his relationship with his Father. This chapter includes Jesus calling his Father 'the only true God' (John 17:3) and acknowledging his subordination to his Father through His mission.

Understanding Subordination in John 17:1-5

In John 17:1-5, Jesus is deeply engaged in a prayer to his Father. He states, 'Father, the hour is come, glorify thy Son that thy Son also may glorify thee' (John 17:1). This prayer further highlights how Jesus views his relationship with his Father. In verse 3, he acknowledges that his work on earth has been given to him by his Father, indicating his subordination. In verse 4, Jesus says, 'I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.' He then prays for his Father to glorify him, fulfilling the mission that was given to him.

Jesus affirms his submission and the authority given to him by his Father. He is not claiming any divine status for himself but rather emphasizing the divine mission and his role as the Messiah. According to these verses, Jesus never claims to be God; he remains a faithful and obedient servant to the Father (John 17:5).

Further Context from Philippians 2:5-11

To provide further context, Philippians 2:5-11 illustrates Jesus' mind set and actions. In Philippians 2:6-7, it is noted that Jesus, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God. However, he willingly humbled himself and took on the form of a servant. This period of humility is significant as it occurred when he put on the form of a man, indicating that his divinity was not on display during his earthly life. In Philippians 2:8-11, the text states that God highly exalted him, giving him a name above every name, and at the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow, every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.

The Nature of God and Glory

The idea that God does not share His Glory is a core aspect of Judeo-Christian theology. The scripture in Isaiah 42:8 reinforces this belief, stating, 'I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.' In John 17:5, when Jesus prays for glory from his Father, it signifies a unity and oneness in their shared divine nature, as they are one God.

Thus, in John 17:1-5, Jesus is praying for his mission to be completed and for his own glory to be restored. His prayer is not an assertion of divinity but a request for the recognition of his work and mission. This is further emphasized by the overarching theological concept that Jesus is subordinate to the Father and willing to serve as their embodiment on earth.

In conclusion, the verses in John 17:1-5 do not indicate that Jesus is claiming to be God. Rather, they illustrate his subordination and the mission he has received and completed as the Messiah. His prayer for glory is a testament to his faithfulness and obedience to his Father, aligning with the broader scriptures that emphasize his mission and service to God.

Key Takeaways

Subordination: Jesus acknowledges his subordination to his Father and the mission given to him. Divinity: Jesus does not claim to be God but rather remains a faithful and obedient servant. Glory: Jesus prays for the glory he had with God before the world was.

Understanding these concepts through the lens of scriptures and theological beliefs helps us to interpret Jesus' role and relationship within the Godhead. This interpretation is critical for those seeking to understand the nuanced relationship between Jesus and God as presented in the Bible.