And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.

JOHN 17:19KJV
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John 17:19 (KJV)

What does John 17:19 mean?

John 17:19 shows Jesus saying that He sets Himself apart for the sake of His followers, so that they too may be set apart and made holy by the truth. Jesus is describing a purposeful act for the benefit of others, connecting His own dedication to their spiritual growth.

In this verse, Jesus is praying to God the Father on behalf of His disciples, just before His arrest. The word "sanctify" means to set apart or make holy, and Jesus is explaining that His own self-dedication is meant to lead His followers into true holiness. The verse ties Jesus’ mission and sacrifice directly to the transformation of His disciples through the truth.

The Greek behind John 17:19

  • ἁγιάζω (hagiazō, "sanctify"): This word means to make holy, set apart, or dedicate. Here, Jesus uses it for both Himself and His followers, showing a connection between His own consecration and theirs.
  • ἐν ἀληθείᾳ (en alētheia, "through the truth"): The phrase means "in" or "by means of" the truth. Jesus links real holiness to the truth, not just ritual or outward actions, highlighting the importance of genuine understanding and reality in spiritual life.

Why John 17:19 matters

  • John 17:19 clarifies that Jesus’ self-offering is not just for Himself but is meant to benefit His followers, showing a deep sense of purpose and care.
  • The verse emphasizes that true holiness comes through the truth, not just through external actions or traditions.
  • This verse connects Jesus’ mission directly to the ongoing growth and sanctification of His disciples, tying His sacrifice to their transformation.

Where else these words appear

“sanctify” Greek G37 · used in 26 verses

  • Matthew 6:9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
  • Romans 15:16 That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost.
  • Hebrews 2:11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren,

“myself” Greek G1683 · used in 37 verses

  • Matthew 8:9 For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
  • John 10:18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.
  • 1 Corinthians 4:4 For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord.

“might” Greek G5600 · used in 62 verses

  • Matthew 6:4 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.
  • John 17:21 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.
  • 2 Corinthians 1:17 When I therefore was thus minded, did I use lightness? or the things that I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh, that with me there should be yea yea, and nay nay?

“truth” Greek G225 · used in 99 verses

  • Matthew 22:16 And they sent out unto him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men.
  • Romans 2:8 But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,
  • 1 Timothy 6:5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.