Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - John 12:12-19
See this passage explained in the notes at Matthew 21:1-16. Also Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:29-44.John 12:16Was glorified - Was raised from the dead, and had ascended to heaven.John 12:17Bare record - Testified that he had raised him, and, as was natural, spread the report through the city. This excited much attention, and the people came out in multitudes to meet one who had power to work such miracles.John 12:19Prevail nothing - All your efforts are ineffectual to stop the progress of his... read more
The Pulpit Commentary - John 12:19
The Pharisees therefore , at the sight of the popular enthusiasm, said to themselves ; i.e. to their own inner circle. Hengstenberg thinks here is a hint of some medium of communication between John and the Pharisees, and imagines it to be found through Martha and Simon (her husband). Their language was, Perceive [ye]—or, ye perceive (either imperative or indicative)— that ye prevail nothing ! The interrogative may also be a true translation. Do ye perceive that ye prevail... read more