The Greeks Seek Jesus
Jump to: SubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
Biblical Reference:
The account of the Greeks seeking Jesus is found in the Gospel of John, specifically in John 12:20-26. This event occurs shortly after Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, during the time of the Passover festival.

Context and Background:
The presence of Greeks in Jerusalem during the Passover festival highlights the widespread influence of Hellenistic culture and the dispersion of Jewish communities throughout the Greco-Roman world. These Greeks were likely "God-fearers," Gentiles who were drawn to the Jewish faith and its monotheistic worship but had not fully converted to Judaism.

Scriptural Account:
In John 12:20-21 , it is recorded: "Now there were some Greeks among those who went up to worship at the feast. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and requested of him, 'Sir, we want to see Jesus.'" The choice of Philip as the disciple to approach may be significant, as his Greek name and background from Bethsaida, a region with a mixed population, might have made him more approachable to these Greek inquirers.

Significance of the Greeks' Request:
The request of the Greeks to see Jesus symbolizes the universal scope of Jesus' mission. Their desire to meet Him foreshadows the spread of the Gospel beyond the Jewish people to the Gentile world. This moment marks a pivotal point in the narrative of the Gospel, indicating that the message of salvation through Jesus Christ is intended for all nations.

Jesus' Response:
In response to the Greeks' request, Jesus speaks of His impending glorification through His death and resurrection. John 12:23-24 states: "But Jesus replied, 'The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Truly, truly, I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a seed; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.'" Here, Jesus uses the metaphor of a seed dying to produce a harvest, illustrating the necessity of His sacrificial death to bring forth spiritual life and redemption for many.

The Broader Implications:
Jesus' discourse following the Greeks' inquiry emphasizes the cost of discipleship and the call to follow Him. In John 12:25-26 , He declares: "Whoever loves his life will lose it, but whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, My servant also will be. If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him." This teaching underscores the transformative nature of following Christ, requiring a willingness to forsake worldly attachments for the sake of eternal life.

Theological Reflection:
The episode of the Greeks seeking Jesus serves as a profound reminder of the inclusivity of the Gospel message. It anticipates the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). The encounter with the Greeks signifies the breaking down of ethnic and cultural barriers, affirming that the salvation offered through Jesus is available to all who seek Him in faith.

Conclusion:
The narrative of the Greeks seeking Jesus is a testament to the far-reaching impact of His ministry and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan for humanity. It highlights the transition from a predominantly Jewish audience to a global mission, setting the stage for the spread of Christianity throughout the world.
The Greeks and Barbarians
Top of Page
Top of Page