Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 17:20

"Neither for these only do I pray, but for them also that believe on me through their word;" — John 17:20 (ASV)

The last section of Jesus’ prayer shows that he expects the failure of the disciples to be only temporary. The entire tone of the farewell discourse is built on the assumption that after the Resurrection they will renew their faith and carry on a new ministry in the power of the Holy Spirit. The provisions and warnings in chs. 13–16 presuppose the continuation of Jesus’ work through these men (cf. Matthew 16:18). He expects the ministry of the Spirit in the disciples to result in adding more believers to their number. So his prayer includes all believers in all ages.