What does John 17:11 mean?

Shortly after He completes this prayer, Jesus will cross over Kidron and enter the garden of Gethsemane (John 18:1). There, He will be arrested, beginning a process leading to His crucifixion and resurrection (John 12:32–34). As these words are spoken, His ministry "in the world" is over, and the apostles will be left to carry the gospel (John 16:5–11). That world will be hostile to their message (John 16:1–4). However, Jesus has already provided comfort by predicting the coming of the Holy Spirit (John 15:26) and His eventual victory (John 16:33).

This verse is another example of Jesus referring to the use of a "name." This is not a reference to magical spells or incantations. To speak "in the name of" someone is to invoke their authority and power. When a police officer says, "stop, in the name of the law!" the command is only as valid as "the law" to which he refers. As Jesus prays for the disciples to be "kept" in their faith by the power and authority of God, He leverages this idea of God's "name."

The reference to unity here is also important. Christ's prayer is most directly applied to His inner circle (Matthew 10:1–4), other than Judas, who has already fallen away (John 17:12). However, the principles also extend to future Christian believers. Christian unity, expressed by love, is the definitive hallmark of saving faith (1 John 4:20). Jesus commanded love for fellow believers (John 13:34–35), and those who truly love Christ will follow that command (John 14:15).