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    Eternal Life & Knowledge of God

    John 17:3 Commentary

    In-depth meaning, historical context, and practical application

    Written by Bible Sundays Editorial TeamChecked by Bible Sundays Scripture DeskLast reviewed August 1, 2026Our editorial standards
    "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent."
    — John 17:3 (KJV)
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    Introduction

    Jesus defines eternal life — and the definition is surprising. Eternal life is not primarily about duration (living forever) but relationship (knowing God). It begins now.

    Historical Context

    John 17 records Jesus' high priestly prayer. In this sacred moment, He defines His mission's very purpose: that people might know God.

    Original Language Insights

    'Know' (ginoskosi) — present tense, ongoing. Continuous, deepening experience — not a one-time event.

    'Only true God' (monon alethinon Theon) — the sole authentic deity.

    'Whom thou hast sent' — knowing God requires knowing Jesus.

    Theological Significance

    This redefines eternal life from quantity to quality. Many want to live forever but have no interest in knowing God. According to Jesus, that's a contradiction. Eternal life IS knowing God.

    Practical Application

    Invest in knowing God deeper. Share this definition: eternal life is knowing God right now, not just going to heaven when you die.

    Cross-References & Related Scriptures

    Philippians 3:10

    "That I may know him."

    Paul's deepest desire was this same knowing.

    Jeremiah 9:23-24

    "Let him that glorieth glory in this, that he knoweth me."

    God says knowing Him is the highest achievement.

    Prayer Response

    Father, this IS eternal life — to know You and Jesus Christ. Deepen my knowledge of who You are. Let knowing You be my highest pursuit. Amen.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does knowing God intellectually qualify?

    No. The 'knowing' is relational and experiential — like knowing a person, not knowing facts. It transforms behavior.

    Read commentary on surrounding verses

    Continue studying John 17 verse by verse:

    After · John 17:17Exact verse

    Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

    Theme: Scripture & Truth

    After · John 17:20-21Exact verse

    Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.

    Theme: Unity

    Nearest commentary in John

    Earlier · 1 ch back · John 16:13Nearest chapter

    Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

    Theme: Holy Spirit

    Earlier · 1 ch back · John 16:31Nearest chapter

    Jesus answered them, Do ye now believe?

    Theme: Jesus' Question About Their Belief

    Earlier · 1 ch back · John 16:32Nearest chapter

    Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me.

    Theme: Alone, Yet Not Alone

    Earlier · 1 ch back · John 16:33Nearest chapter

    These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

    Theme: Peace & Victory

    Read John 16Commentary: John 16:13
    Read John 17 (full)Nearest commentary: John 17:17
    Read John 18No commentary yet
    Previous commentary: John 16:33Next commentary: John 17:17

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    Related Bible Questions

    Common questions people ask about this passage — answered with KJV scripture.

    What Is Eternal Life According to the Bible?

    Eternal life is not just endless existence but a present relationship with God through Jesus Christ that continues forever in His presence.

    Read answer

    What Does the Bible Say About Eternal Life?

    Eternal life is the free gift of God through faith in Jesus Christ — not merely endless existence but knowing God personally.

    Read answer

    What Does It Mean to Be Born Again?

    Being born again means experiencing a spiritual rebirth through faith in Jesus Christ, receiving a new nature and eternal life from God.

    Read answer

    What Is the Gospel of John About?

    The Gospel of John presents Jesus as the divine Son of God, emphasizing His deity, seven miraculous signs, and the promise of eternal life through faith.

    Read answer

    What Is Eternal Life in the Bible?

    Eternal life is the gift of knowing God and Jesus Christ personally — a quality of life that begins at conversion and continues forever in fellowship with God.

    Read answer

    What Is the New Covenant?

    The New Covenant is God's promise, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, to write His law on believers' hearts, forgive sins permanently, and establish a personal relationship with His people.

    Read answer

    Quick Devotional

    For a shorter devotional reflection on related verses:

    John 14:6 – Meaning & Devotional

    "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."

    John 16:33 – Meaning & Devotional

    "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."

    John 1:1 – Meaning & Devotional

    "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."

    Related Miracles

    Signs and wonders connected to this passage and its themes:

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    Water Turned into Wine

    Jesus' first public miracle at a wedding in Cana turned six water pots into the best wine.

    Read the miracle
    Resurrection
    New Testament

    The Raising of Lazarus

    After four days in the tomb, Lazarus came forth at the command of Jesus.

    Read the miracle
    Healing
    New Testament

    Healing of the Man Born Blind

    Jesus anointed a man's eyes with clay and gave sight to one born blind from birth.

    Read the miracle
    Healing
    New Testament

    Healing of the Man Born Blind

    Jesus anoints a man born blind with clay, sends him to Siloam, and he returns seeing.

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    John 16:33Acts 17:28

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