What does John 17:23 mean?
For those who are not saved (1 Corinthians 2:14), the only way to "see" God and His influence is through the example of Christian believers (Matthew 5:13–16). Jesus previously indicated that His actions demonstrated that He was sent by God (John 14:11, 31). The same is meant to be true of born-again believers (John 17:21). Those who sincerely love God will obey God (John 14:15), and that means showing Christian love for other believers (Colossians 3:14). As much as Christians are obligated to rebuke those who teach false things (Galatians 1:8; 1 Corinthians 5:11), there is also a command to be lovingly unified (Romans 14:1).In this High Priestly Prayer (John 17:1), it's important to note this emphasis. When Jesus began to pray specifically for those who would come to faith through the work of the apostles (John 17:20), the main request He makes is for unity. While in other passages, Jesus is more direct about His divine nature (John 8:58–59; 10:30; 14:9), this reference to being "in" is part of this ongoing prayer for harmony between fellow Christians (John 17:22).