How does John 12:20 connect to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19? John 12:20—Greeks Seeking Jesus “Now there were some Greeks among those who went up to worship at the feast.” (John 12:20) • “Greeks” represents Gentiles—people outside physical Israel. • Their desire to “see Jesus” (v. 21) signals the widening interest of the nations just days before the cross. • Jesus responds by speaking of His impending death (vv. 23-24), showing that the cross will open access for every people group. Matthew 28:19—Command to Reach All Nations “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19) • “All nations” echoes the same Gentile inclusion hinted at by the Greeks’ appearance. • The imperative is global, not limited to Israel. Tracing the Connection: From Request to Commission 1. Foreshadowing • John 12:20 demonstrates Gentiles already knocking at the door. • Jesus’ immediate focus on the cross (John 12:23-32) shows the means by which they will be gathered—His atoning death. 2. Fulfillment • After resurrection, Jesus explicitly commands the outreach first hinted at in John 12:20. • The Greeks’ request becomes a prototype for every nation’s invitation. 3. Unbroken storyline • John 10:16 “I have other sheep…they will listen to My voice.” • Acts 1:8 “to the ends of the earth” begins in Jerusalem but moves outward (Acts 8 with Samaritans; Acts 10 with Cornelius the Gentile). Old Testament Roots of a Global Vision • Genesis 12:3 “All the families of the earth will be blessed through you.” • Isaiah 49:6 “I will make you a light for the nations.” • These promises underlie both the Greeks’ arrival and the Great Commission. Practical Takeaways for Today • Expect God to draw people from every background—He has signaled this from the start. • The cross is the bridge; proclaim it clearly (1 Corinthians 1:23-24). • Engage cultures confident that Jesus has already stirred hearts, just as He stirred the Greeks to seek Him. • Obey the Great Commission knowing it is the natural outflow of Jesus’ global intent revealed in John 12:20. |
    |