“τοῖς ἀνθρώποις οὓς δέδωκάς μοι ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου” In Jesus’ Priestly Prayer (John 17:6-10): Motivation for Christian Holy Living in Nigeria

Resumen

This paper explores the phrase “τοῖς ἀνθρώποις οὓς δέδωκάς μοι ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου” (the people whom You gave Me out of the world) from Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer in John 17:6–10, examining its theological and ethical implications as a motivation for Christian holy living, particularly in the Nigerian context. It is noteworthy that despite the evident growth of Christianity in Nigeria, moral and spiritual decline among Christians remains a pressing issue. Many professing Christians struggle with a compromised faith that mirrors societal corruption rather than biblical values. There appears to be a gap between religious profession and ethical behavior, raising the urgent need to call the attention of the Christians in Nigeria back to holy living. The study therefore emphasizes the identity of believers as a distinct people given to Christ by God, called out from the world, and entrusted with a sanctified purpose. Through exegetico critical analysis and contextual application, the paper argues that this divine calling fosters a sense of belonging, responsibility, and moral distinction that challenges Nigerian Christians to uphold holy living amidst societal pressures such as corruption, materialism, and moral compromise. The research insists that by understanding their status as God-given gifts to Christ, believers in Nigeria are motivated to live lives that reflect divine ownership, purpose, and transformation, thereby influencing the broader society with kingdom values.