John 12:20
And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast:
John 12:20 (KJV)
Context
John 12:20 takes place during the final week of Jesus’ earthly ministry, in the lead-up to the Passover feast. The verse follows the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem (John 12:12-19) and sets the stage for significant events, including Jesus’ teaching, the Last Supper, His arrest, crucifixion, and resurrection.
Meaning
The verse mentions that there were Greeks among the people who came up to worship at the feast. The Greek term used here is “Hellenes,” referring to individuals of Greek descent or those influenced by Greek culture. In this context, it means Gentiles rather than Greek-speaking Jews, who were called Hellenists. These Greeks were likely devout Gentiles who were allowed to worship in the court of the Gentiles, or they may have been proselytes, converts to Judaism who worshiped the God of Israel but were not of Jewish heritage.
The feast refers to the Passover, an important Jewish festival commemorating God’s deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. It was customary for devout Jews to travel to Jerusalem to celebrate this significant event. The context of the Passover feast is crucial, as it points to Jesus as the true Passover Lamb whose sacrifice would soon be accomplished.
Biblical connections
The presence of these Greeks at the Passover feast holds symbolic meaning. It indicates that the message and influence of Jesus were spreading beyond the Jewish community. It foreshadows the inclusive nature of the Gospel, which would extend to all nations, as Jesus’ sacrificial death would bring salvation to people of every race and background. The immediate narrative continues in John 12:21-22, where these Greeks approach Philip, from Bethsaida in Galilee, with the request, “Sir, we would like to see Jesus.” Philip then tells Andrew, and together they tell Jesus. This sets the stage for Jesus’ response in John 12:23, where He declares, “The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.” This response indicates that the arrival of the Greeks marked a significant turning point in Jesus’ ministry, foreshadowing His impending crucifixion and the fulfillment of His ultimate purpose.
Application
Although not explicitly mentioned in this verse, it is implied that these Greeks had a desire to meet Jesus. They likely had heard about His teachings, miracles, and the impact He had on people’s lives. Their presence at the feast suggests their curiosity and longing to encounter Jesus personally. Their seeking Jesus is a model of sincere spiritual inquiry, and their coming to worship emphasizes the importance of approaching God with a genuine heart.
Reflection
The presence of the Greeks at the Passover feast highlights Jesus’ mission to bring salvation not only to the Jews but also to the Gentiles. The mention of Greeks at the feast shows that even non-Jews were seeking Jesus, and it underscores the truth that salvation is offered to all nations.
