Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 17:25

"O righteous Father, the world knew thee not, but I knew thee; and these knew that thou didst send me;" — John 17:25 (ASV)

The entire prayer is based on the righteousness of God (see comment on v.11), who will vindicate the Son by glorifying him. Jesus’ revelation of God is founded on personal knowledge and personal communion. The essence of the revelation lies in the love of God, which Jesus exhibits toward the disciples. His purpose is to perfect his union with them, that they in turn may know the Father. Jesus wants to include them in the inner fellowship of the Triune God.