King James Version
What Does John 12:30 Mean?
“Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes .”
Context
28
Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.
29
The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered : others said, An angel spake to him.
30
Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes .
31
Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.
32
And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(30) **This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes.**—More exactly, *not for My sake did this voice come, but for your sakes.* These words are an answer to the thoughts, spoken and unspoken, of the multitude. Jesus Himself knew that the Father heareth Him always, but this answer is a sign to others. (Comp. John 11:41-42.) He calls it a *voice* in answer to those who said it thundered, or that an angel had spoken. There was that, then, which seemed to them but the thunder’s sound or an angel’s word, which, coming in answer to His prayer and after His teaching. should have been, to ears ready to hear and minds willing to receive, the voice of God witnessing to the mission of His Son.
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 12:30 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 12:30
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge