What does John 12:22 mean?
The disciples know all too well that Jesus' enemies want to kill Him (John 10:39–40). They were unsure about even coming back to this region due to those fears (John 11:8). What they don't know is that the plans of those hostile religious leaders are now official, and the rulers of Jerusalem are actively seeking to have Jesus killed (John 11:53). They probably suspect, however, that Jesus' dramatic and celebrated triumphal entry has heightened the danger He faces (John 12:12–19).This verse makes sense considering those concerns. A group of non-Jewish people have come to speak to Jesus (John 12:20), approaching Philip first (John 12:21). This verse indicates that the request passed from Philip, to Andrew, and then to Jesus. This has the feel of a security screening process—as if the disciples are being very careful of who is allowed close access to Jesus. Multiple layers of vetting would make it easier for the disciples to detect a potential assassin.
John 12:20–26 describes a group of Greeks—non-Jewish people who worshipped God—who approach Jesus after the triumphal entry. The disciples appear to be carefully vetting everyone who wants to come near Jesus, knowing that local religious leaders have marked Him for death. Jesus' response indicates that the time has come for His ultimate sacrifice, an event which opens the gospel of grace to the entire world.
Jesus is treated to an honorary dinner at the home of Lazarus, whom He has recently raised from death. At this dinner, Lazarus' sister, Mary, anoints Jesus with expensive oil. Jesus then enters Jerusalem to great fanfare, stoking fears that His popularity will attract the anger of the Roman Empire. That anger even inspires a murder plot against Lazarus. After being approached by non-Jewish seekers, Jesus offers a final plea for people to understand His ministry. In effect, these are the last public words spoken by Jesus in the gospel of John.
