2 As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.

Other Translations of John 17:2

New International Version

2 For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him.

English Standard Version

2 since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him.

The Message

2 You put him in charge of everything human So he might give real and eternal life to all in his charge.

New King James Version

2 as You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him.

New Living Translation

2 For you have given him authority over everyone. He gives eternal life to each one you have given him.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on John 17:2

Commentary on John 17:1-5

(Read John 17:1-5)

Our Lord prayed as a man, and as the Mediator of his people; yet he spoke with majesty and authority, as one with and equal to the Father. Eternal life could not be given to believers, unless Christ, their Surety, both glorified the Father, and was glorified of him. This is the sinner's way to eternal life, and when this knowledge shall be made perfect, holiness and happiness will be fully enjoyed. The holiness and happiness of the redeemed, are especially that glory of Christ, and of his Father, which was the joy set before him, for which he endured the cross and despised the shame; this glory was the end of the sorrow of his soul, and in obtaining it he was fully satisfied. Thus we are taught that our glorifying God is needed as an evidence of our interest in Christ, through whom eternal life is God's free gift.