Matthew Poole and continuators on John 17:18

18 As thou hast sent me into the world: even so have I also sent them into the world .

That is, My Father! they have not thrust themselves into their imployment, they have not run without sending; for as I am thine Apostle, as I was sent by thee, so I have sent them. The Apostles indeed were not sent for the same end in all things that Christ was sent; who was sent to purchase Salvation for men, as well as to Preach the Gospel: but they were sent in part for the same work for which Christ was sent, and they were sent by him who had authority to send them; and as it is but reasonable for Princes to protect those whom themselves send upon their Embassies; so it was but reasonable that God should defend and protect those whom his Son had sent out as his Embassadors.

Marginal references: Chap, 20.21.