Thoughts on the Gospel of John (111) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

Now there were certain Greeks among those who came up to worship at the feast. Then they came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida of Galilee, and asked him, saying, Sir, we wish to see Jesus. Philip came and told Andrew, and in turn Andrew and Philip told Jesus. But Jesus answered them saying, The hour has come that the Son of man should be glorified.
John 12:20-23.

Thoughts on the Gospel of John (111)
The raising of Lazarus brought to light the glory of the Son of God here on earth in a measure rarely witnessed before. We have seen its effect:

1. Many believed in Jesus and welcomed Him as the King of Israel on His entry into Jerusalem.
2. The Pharisees were annoyed intensely.
3. Among some Greeks, who worshipped the God of Israel and the true God, arose the wish to see Jesus.
Why did the Greeks speak to Philip? He came from a district that was strongly influenced by Greek culture. Moreover, Philip was clearly someone who was easy to contact (cf. ch. 1:43-46).

The Lord's answer gave food for thought: it was not then the time for Him to reveal Himself publicly to the world in power and glory. The Lord was not thinking of the kingdom, when He spoke of the hour of His glory, but of the cross on which He would be lifted up. The following verses make it clear that His death was needed, if mankind was to be blessed through Him.

The title "Son of man" incorporates His rejection and death besides His ascension and reign for the blessing of the entire universe (cf. Psalm 8:5-7; Luke 9:22.26).

(to be continued next Sunday)

Today's reading: 1 Chronicles 10:1-14 · Psalms 83:10-18