What does John 12:20 mean?

Explanation

John 12:20 talks about a group of Greeks who were present in Jerusalem during the time of a feast.

These Greeks were likely "God-fearers," Gentiles who were attracted to Judaism but who were not full converts.

They approached Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, possibly because they felt a kinship with him since he had a Greek name.

Their request was to "see" Jesus (John 12:21), which implies they were seeking an audience or some form of deeper understanding and instruction from Him.

This verse is significant because it shows that Jesus' reputation and message had spread beyond the Jewish people, indicating the universality of His mission.

Historical Context

The events in John 12:20 occur during the time of Passover, one of the key Jewish feasts that many Jews and God-fearers attended, often making a pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

The presence of Greeks at this feast illustrates the cosmopolitan nature of Jerusalem at the time and the influence of Hellenistic culture through the region.

The setting emphasizes a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry when the message was reaching a broader audience, stretching beyond traditional Jewish boundaries.

Theological Insights

The presence of the Greeks seeking Jesus has been interpreted in various ways.

From a theological perspective, some see it as a foreshadowing of the gospel being brought to the Gentiles, consistent with the message in Acts that salvation through Jesus Christ is available to all people, not just the Jews.

Others view it in light of Jesus' imminent sacrifice, symbolizing that His death and resurrection would be for the salvation of the whole world, Jews and Gentiles alike.

Practical Applications

The request of the Greeks to see Jesus can serve as a model for the personal seeking of faith in daily life.

This verse encourages individuals to actively seek a relationship with Christ, regardless of their cultural or religious background. It also reminds believers to be inclusive and welcoming to all who seek to learn about Jesus, reflecting the universal call of the Christian message.

Cross-References

• John 12:32: "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me."
• Acts 10:34-35: "Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him."
• Isaiah 56:7: "Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word for "Greeks" is Ἕλληνες (Hellenes), which traditionally referred to Greek-speaking, non-Jewish people who were likely influenced by Greek culture.

The verb "came up" (ἀναβαίνοντες) is a common term for making a pilgrimage, especially to Jerusalem, and "to worship" (προσκυνέω) conveys a sense of reverence and religious devotion.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the Hellenistic world, it was not uncommon for individuals to seek wisdom and teachings from a variety of sources.

The Greeks seeking Jesus could be seen in parallel with the way individuals in ancient cultures would approach a philosopher or a wise man for enlightenment.

This meeting point of Hellenistic culture with Jewish Messianism showcases a blending and exchange of religious thought that was prevalent in the ancient world.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse itself does not directly intersect with scientific understandings, the process of pilgrimage has been studied in various fields such as anthropology and sociology.

The act of pilgrimage, such as the one mentioned where people "came up to worship," involves both physical and psychological elements and can be a part of broader studies on human behavior, group dynamics, and the search for meaning.

Commentaries

Commentators generally agree on the significance of this event.

Matthew Henry's commentary reflects on the providential timing of the Greeks' arrival, showing that the hour for the Gentiles was approaching.

The Expositor's Bible Commentary suggests that this may indicate a turning point in Jesus' ministry, signaling a movement towards a more global mission.

Meanwhile, the Barnes' Notes commentary speaks to the curiosity stirred by Jesus' miracles and teachings, attracting a diverse audience that even included those from the Greek world.