Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 17:14

"I have given them thy word; and the world hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world." — John 17:14 (ASV)

The very fact that the disciples received the message of God from Jesus differentiates them from the world at large. They have a different nature and a different affiliation. Such a radical contrast draws the hatred of the world, which always demands conformity to its viewpoint and practices. Having taken their stand with Jesus, they will be susceptible to the same rejection he experienced.