Expositor's Dictionary of Texts - John 12:1-50
Mixed Motives John 12:9 These words may be read with marked and suggestive differences of emphasis. 'Not for Jesus' sake only 'would seem to be the natural emphasis; 'Not for Jesus' sake only ' would seem to convey another suggestion and meaning. I. Take the words thus: 'Not for Jesus' sake only,' though that might be the principal reason, but also for another reason, namely, that they might see the man whom Jesus Christ had raised from the dead. They did not want to exclude Jesus, but they... read more
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers - John 12:49
(49) For I have not spoken of myself.—Comp. John 5:30; John 7:16-17; John 7:28-29; John 8:26; John 8:28; John 8:38. The word “for” connects this by way of reason with the condemnatory power of His word.The Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment.—Comp. Note on John 10:18. The reference is to the commission of His Messianic life.What I should say, and what I should speak.—It is clear that our Lord intends a distinction here between “saying” and “speaking.” We have had the same distinction... read more