What does John 12:27 mean?

Explanation

John 12:27 captures a moment of profound vulnerability and humanity in the life of Jesus Christ.

The verse depicts Jesus expressing a deep emotional turmoil as he faces his impending suffering and death. He asks, rhetorically, whether he should ask God to save him from the trial that is to come - this "hour" that he is referring to.

However, he recognizes and affirms that it is for this very purpose - to face this hour - that he has come into the world.

Despite the distress, he acknowledges that his mission is to go through this suffering.

This acknowledgement shows the resolve and commitment of Jesus to his role as the redeemer, but also shows that he was not immune to feelings of fear and distress when contemplating the sacrifices he was about to make.

Historical Context

This verse is part of the New Testament, written in the context of first-century Jewish culture under Roman occupation.

At this time in the Gospel of John, Jesus is in Jerusalem, and it is shortly before his arrest and crucifixion.

The audience would have been familiar with the Jewish expectation of a Messiah, and the constant oppressive nature of Roman rule would have heightened the anticipation for a liberator.

Knowing his death was fast approaching, Jesus reflects on his mission and the divine purpose behind the events that are about to unfold.

Theological Insights

The verse provides a poignant insight into the dual nature of Jesus Christ in Christian theology - fully divine and yet fully human. His divinity is recognized through his understanding of and submission to the divine will; his humanity is revealed by the distress he experiences.

Theologically, this moment acknowledges the existential anguish that Jesus underwent - a concept that can be confrontational for some believers who might find it difficult to reconcile Jesus' divine nature with such deep human vulnerability.

From a traditional Christian viewpoint, this verse is also interpreted as emphasizing Jesus' obedience to God's will.

Some theologians might argue that Jesus' trepidation shows that, like all humans, he has free will - he could choose to avoid his suffering, but he does not.

In contrast, liberation theology might highlight the verse as an expression of solidarity with the oppressed who face their own "hours" of trial, seeing in Jesus' anxiety a reflection of their own struggles against forces larger than themselves.

Practical Applications

This verse can offer comfort and identification for those going through difficult times, knowing that Jesus himself faced profound distress and was not aloof to the emotional aspects of human tribulation.

In daily life, it can serve as a lesson in facing our own "hours" - challenging moments for which we might feel we were destined.

It reminds believers to remain steadfast in purpose and to trust in the larger narrative of their lives, even when that path leads through periods of fear or suffering.

Cross-References

• Luke 22:42 - "Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done."
• Hebrews 5:7-8 - "Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;"
• Matthew 26:39 - "And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt."

Language Study

The key phrase in the original Greek is "τετάρακται ἡ ψυχή μου" (tetaraktoi he psuchē mou), which translates to "Now is my soul troubled." The word "τετάρακται" (tetaraktoi), from "ταράσσω" (tarassō), means to trouble, disturb, or stir up, indicating a deep emotional upset. "ψυχή" (psuchē) refers to the soul or the life force of a person, also encompassing the mind and emotions.

This amplifies the extent of Jesus' inner turmoil as beyond mere anxiety - it touches the core of his being.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The theme of a god or hero facing a great trial or choosing to accept their fate for a higher cause is common in many mythologies and religions.

For instance, in Greek mythology, Prometheus accepts his punishment to bring fire (knowledge) to humanity.

In some interpretations of the Bhagavad Gita, the god Krishna encourages the warrior Arjuna to fulfill his duty (dharma) despite his own hesitations, similar to the notion of Jesus accepting his divine purpose.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not directly intersect with scientific disciplines, the expression of mental anguish can be examined through the lens of psychology.

Modern psychology recognizes the complexity of human emotions, including the stress and anxiety associated with anticipating traumatic events.

Jesus' expressed feelings could be seen as a realistic response to impending danger, indicating the Gospel's awareness of human psychology, even within its theological context.

Commentaries

Commentators have various views on this verse.

Some see it as a declaration of Jesus' mission inevitability as described by Raymond E.

Brown, emphasizing the salvific purpose of Jesus' suffering as central to his mission.

William Barclay notes that this verse powerfully demonstrates Jesus' humanity, adding that "He was never less than God, but He was never more than man." Others, like D.A.

Carson, suggest that this passage shows the voluntary and obedient aspect of Jesus' acceptance of his sufferings, reinforcing traditional Christian ideas of atonement and sacrifice.