What does Jesus mean by saying 'the hour is come' in John 17?

'The hour is come' in John 17 refers to the specific time Jesus anticipates His Passion—the culmination of His earthy ministry leading to His crucifixion. This phrase encapsulates the divine timing set from eternity for the salvation of His elect. It emphasizes the significance of the moment when Jesus would offer Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin. During this hour, Jesus would indeed take upon Himself the sin of the world and face the wrath of God on behalf of His people, opening the way for reconciliation. This moment is not just an event in a timeline; it is a turning point in redemption history that was planned and executed according to God's ultimate purpose and design. Thus, understanding 'the hour' makes us appreciate the fullness of God's sovereign grace in orchestrating salvation.