I've always found this verse interesting.

Why do I find it so interesting?  Because it flies in the face of the image that many have of Jesus.  Many people seem to think that Jesus is this all loving, kumbaya singing, hand holding guy who will love on everyone no matter what. 

Contrast that with what Jesus Himself said.

 

John 17:9-10(NKJV)

“I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours. 

And all Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I am glorified in them. 

 

Isn't that interesting.  Jesus flat out says that the only ones He is praying for are those who have come to God through Jesus. 

Jesus isn't prying for the Muslims.  Jesus isn't praying for the Hindu's.  Jesus isn't praying for the Hari Krishna's, and He isn't praying for the heathens.  Jesus is investing His prayer time into those who matter most to Him.  Hmm.  Interesting.

But what about the unsaved?  Isn't He praying for the unsaved? 

 

Not according to this verse.  He is still bringing His message to the unsaved and doing everything He can to save them but according to this verse the unsaved don't get the favor of Jesus praying for them until they are saved.

That's a little different then the usual perception isn't it? 

But what about love your enemies? 

 

What about it? 

 

How can you love your enemies if you aren't praying for them? 

Hmm, I don't know.  Based on the tone of the question, are you suggesting that Jesus doesn't love His enemies if He doesn't pray for them? 

Maybe the thing to do is ask Jesus.  Have a conversation with Him.  "Dear Jesus….."