John 17:18
ESV
As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world.
NIV
As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.
NASB
Just as You sent Me into the world, I also sent them into the world.
CSB
As you sent me into the world, I also have sent them into the world.
NLT
Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world.
KJV
As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.
NKJV
As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world.
What does John 17:18 mean?
This verse connects to the Bible's explanation of the Christian life in numerous ways. Christ is not only a born-again Christian's master, but also their chief example (John 13:15–16). Jesus noted that He was only able to act according to the will of God the Father (John 5:19). Likewise, believers ought only to act according to the commands of Christ (John 14:15). Jesus sent the Twelve out to spread the truth (Matthew 10:5–7), and He does the same with Christians today (John 17:20).This statement also supports Jesus' earlier comment that those who followed would do "greater works" than He did. As those left in the world to carry God's message (John 17:17), Christians are meant to continue speaking God's truth, as Jesus did (Matthew 5:13–16; 28:19).
God the Father sent Christ into the world to accomplish a specific mission (John 12:49). That status did not make Jesus immune from suffering and hardship. In fact, obedience to God required Jesus to endure the cross (Philippians 2:8). Likewise, Christian believers are not protected from harm "just because" they belong to Christ (John 16:1–5).
