As they are about to leave for the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus will be betrayed, he concludes his talk with his disciples by saying a prayer on their behalf. He knows his time has come and he will be leaving them to take over the kingdom so he tells his Father that the disciples have heard his message and believe. Therefore, since they will be taking over the kingdom and helping it grow, Jesus asks the Father to protect them.
GRINDIT podcast
Episode 40: John 17 The Greatest Prayer Ever Told
December 12th, 2020