King James Version
What Does John 12:16 Mean?
“These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of him, and that they had done these things unto him.”
Context
14
And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat thereon ; as it is written,
15
Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass's colt.
16
These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of him, and that they had done these things unto him.
17
The people therefore that was with him when he called Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, bare record.
18
For this cause the people also met him, for that they heard that he had done this miracle.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(16) **These things understood not his disciples at the first . . .**—Comp. Notes on John 2:22; John 20:9. It is a touch peculiar to St. John, and exactly in his manner. He remembers the difference between the spiritual receptivity, before and after Pentecost, in the Apostolic band itself. He remembers how the Old Testament Scriptures became filled with a new life and meaning, as the Spirit brought to the memory their words, and the words of Him of whom they told.
**When Jesus was glorified.**—Comp. Note on John 7:39.
**They had done these things unto Him.**—The narrative implies, these, the incidents which the others state. The phrase “these things” occurs three times, referring emphatically to the correspondence between the prophecy and the actual incidents.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
John 12:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to John 12:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge