New Testament
John 12:23
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Jesus answered them, saying, "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified."
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And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.
What John 12:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is indicating a pivotal moment in His life and ministry. The phrase "the hour has come" signifies that the time for His ultimate purpose is at hand. Throughout the Gospel of John, Jesus often speaks of His hour, which refers to His impending crucifixion and the glorification that would follow through His resurrection. By saying He will be glorified, Jesus is foreshadowing the victory over sin and death that His sacrifice will achieve. This moment is crucial as it marks the transition from His earthly ministry to the fulfillment of God's plan for salvation. The glorification of the Son of Man also emphasizes the divine authority and mission of Jesus, highlighting that His suffering is not in vain but leads to a greater glory that will impact all of humanity. This verse invites believers to understand the significance of Jesus' sacrifice and the hope it brings for eternal life.
How to apply John 12:23 to your life
Recognizing that Jesus' glorification came through His sacrifice encourages us to embrace our own challenges with faith. We can find hope in our struggles, knowing that they can lead to growth and deeper understanding of God's purpose in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying John 12:23
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 12:23 mean?
In John 12:23, Jesus declares that the time has come for Him to be glorified, indicating the beginning of His path toward crucifixion and resurrection. This moment marks a significant transition in His ministry, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's plan for salvation.
What is the significance of 'the hour has come' in John 12:23?
The phrase 'the hour has come' signifies a crucial moment in Jesus' mission, indicating that the time for His sacrifice and glorification is at hand. It highlights the divine timing of events leading to His crucifixion and the ultimate victory over sin and death.
What does 'the Son of Man should be glorified' mean in John 12:23?
When Jesus refers to 'the Son of Man should be glorified,' He is foreshadowing His death and resurrection, which will bring about His ultimate glory. This glorification represents the triumph over sin and death, fulfilling His role as the Savior.
How does John 12:23 relate to Jesus' authority?
John 12:23 illustrates Jesus' authority as the Son of Man, as He confidently declares the arrival of His glorification. This moment underscores His divine mission and the significance of His sacrifice in achieving salvation for all.
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