Charles Ellicott Commentary John 17:18

"As thou didst send me into the world, even so sent I them into the world." — John 17:18 (ASV)

As you have sent me into the world.—Better, As You sent Me. The tense points out the definite moment of His mission .

So I have also sent them into the world.—Better, I also sent. Compare Notes on Matthew 10:5; Luke 6:13. In the very word “Apostles” their mission was contained; but the thought here comprehends the immediate future of their wider mission (Compare to Note on John 20:21).