John 12:31b-32
Chapter 12
31
Now sentence is being passed on this world; now the ruler of this world is to be cast down.
32
And when I am lifted from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself.”
And when I am lifted from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself.”
Commentaries
The Greeks and Jesus.
Without knowing how or where, leaving the narrative of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem pending, John introduces us to some Greeks who want to “see” Jesus (21). They symbolize the first Gentile followers; they are the vanguard of humanity coming to Jesus. Their whole journey to faith will take place after Easter; they belong to those who believe without having seen (20:29). Then, in a series of brief but powerful statements, Jesus declares the importance of his death. The “necessity” of his death is illustrated in the parable of the grain of wheat that falls to the ground to produce fruit (24). It’s built in perfect contrast: it does not die/it dies; it remains alone/it bears much fruit. This illustrates the universal impact of salvation brought by Jesus’ death (10:15-18; 11:51ff). It marks the end of Jesus’ public ministry before the world (which has extended through the first twelve chapters). The light fades away; the unbelievers remain in darkness.