John 12:21

21. To Philip Philip’s name being (Greek, (as well as Andrew’s,) indicates Grecian connection, and accounts for their appeal to him. Jesus was doubtless in the Court of the Women, into which no Gentile might enter. These Greeks, who have probably heard of the wonders that Jesus has performed, have seen his regal entrance into Jerusalem, and heard, perhaps, some faint report of his wonderful teachings, have a desire to be introduced to him. Whether Jesus gave them audience or not is not said, and is doubted by some eminent scholars. But to suppose that Jesus declined their request is to deprive the narrative of all significance. Plainly John furnishes the fact in order to account for the discourse that follows. John omits, because he assumes, the little details of the introduction and the incidental conversation. As the Lord rises into momentous discourse John begins to record.

As these Greeks had seen his triumph, but were soon to see his humiliation, Jesus seizes the moment to show that his very sufferings are a glorification. He dies that he may produce new life, as all his followers must renounce life that they may live, 23-26. A pang of sorrow for a moment overwhelms his soul, to be succeeded by a glorification, a voice from the Father, audibly testifying in his behalf, 27-29. Jesus, thus sustained by the divine Voice, pictures the overthrow of the prince of darkness in the world, 30-33. To the querying people Jesus gives his last admonition to realize the Light while it shines before them, 34-36.