John 18:32

This was to fulfill the word that Jesus had spoken to indicate the kind of death He was going to die.

Study Bible

This was to fulfill
The phrase "to fulfill" is significant in the Gospel of John, as it often points to the divine plan and the fulfillment of prophecy. The Greek word used here is "πληρωθῇ" (plērōthē), which means to complete or bring to fruition. This indicates that the events unfolding are not random but are part of God's sovereign plan, as foretold in the Scriptures. The fulfillment of prophecy is a recurring theme in the New Testament, underscoring the reliability and divine inspiration of the biblical narrative.

the word that Jesus had spoken
This phrase refers to the prophetic words of Jesus concerning His own death. In John 12:32-33, Jesus had previously indicated the manner of His death, saying, "And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to Myself." The Greek term "λόγον" (logon) for "word" emphasizes the authoritative and prophetic nature of Jesus' statements. It highlights Jesus' foreknowledge and the intentionality behind His mission, reinforcing His identity as the Son of God who willingly lays down His life.

to indicate the kind of death
The phrase "the kind of death" points to the specific manner in which Jesus would die. The Greek word "σημαίνων" (sēmainōn) means to signify or make known. This is not just about the fact of death but the particular method—crucifixion. Crucifixion was a Roman method of execution, and its mention here underscores the historical and political context of Jesus' death. It also fulfills Old Testament prophecies, such as Psalm 22, which describe a suffering servant.

He was going to die
The inevitability of Jesus' death is captured in the phrase "He was going to die." The Greek verb "ἤμελλεν" (ēmellen) suggests something that is destined or bound to happen. This reflects the divine necessity of Jesus' sacrificial death for the redemption of humanity. It was not merely a tragic end but a purposeful act of love and obedience to the Father. The death of Jesus is central to Christian theology, as it is through His death and resurrection that believers find salvation and eternal life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure of the New Testament, whose life, death, and resurrection are the foundation of Christian faith. In this verse, Jesus is the one whose words are being fulfilled.

2. Pontius Pilate
The Roman governor who presided over the trial of Jesus. His involvement is crucial in the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy about His death.

3. Jewish Leaders
They played a significant role in the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion, seeking a death sentence that only the Roman authorities could carry out.

4. Roman Crucifixion
The method of execution that Jesus prophesied He would endure, which was a Roman practice, not a Jewish one.

5. Prophecy Fulfillment
The event of Jesus' crucifixion as a fulfillment of His own words and Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah's suffering and death.

Teaching Points

Divine Sovereignty and Fulfillment
Jesus' death was not a random act of violence but a fulfillment of divine prophecy, demonstrating God's sovereign plan for salvation.

The Importance of Prophecy
Understanding prophecy strengthens our faith, showing that God's word is reliable and His plans are unchangeable.

The Role of Human Agents in God's Plan
Even those who opposed Jesus were unwittingly fulfilling God's purposes, reminding us that God can use any situation for His glory.

The Nature of Jesus' Sacrifice
Jesus willingly submitted to a death He had foretold, emphasizing His obedience and love for humanity.

Trust in God's Plan
Just as Jesus trusted the Father's plan, we are called to trust in God's purposes for our lives, even when we face trials.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus' death strengthen your faith in the reliability of Scripture?

2. In what ways can you see God's sovereignty at work in your own life, even in difficult circumstances?

3. How does the knowledge that Jesus willingly went to the cross for you impact your daily walk with Him?

4. What can we learn from the role of the Jewish leaders and Roman authorities about how God can use even opposition to fulfill His purposes?

5. How can you apply the principle of trusting in God's plan, as Jesus did, to a current situation you are facing?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 12:32-33
Jesus previously indicated the manner of His death, saying He would be "lifted up," which refers to crucifixion.

Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53
These Old Testament passages prophesy the suffering and death of the Messiah, which Jesus fulfills.

Matthew 20:18-19
Jesus predicts His betrayal, condemnation, and crucifixion, showing His foreknowledge and the divine plan.