John 17:9

9. Pray not for the world For the world, as such, and while it stays such, (in the sense used here and in John 17:14,) is not a possible object of the mercies and blessings he is now imploring; and so cannot be the object of his direct prayer. Indirectly he prays, in John 17:21; John 17:23, for the world, that it may be brought under the scope and cover of his prayer, by conversion to faith in him. When Christ intercedes, as here, for his Church, it is that it may be, as here, preserved, sanctified, and glorified. When he prays for the world, it is that it may be converted and forgiven. Luke xxiii, 34. Then the world comes into the Church, and receives the blessing of Christ’s Church by intercession.

For them which thou hast given me The apostles, as in John 17:6; John 17:8.

They are thine The Father gave them, yet still retained them. They were the common property of God and of Christ. Therefore did Christ confidently pray for them.