John 12:22 – “Philip went to tell Andrew; Andrew and Philip in turn told Jesus.”

Extended Explanation

This verse follows the moment when some Greeks (Gentiles) came to Philip with the request: “We would like to see Jesus” (John 12:21). Instead of going directly to Jesus, Philip first consults Andrew, and then together, they bring the request to Jesus.

It may seem like a simple, routine detail, but it actually tells us something important about how Jesus’ disciples functioned and how they handled this significant request. The fact that two disciples were involved in bringing the Greeks to Jesus suggests that this was not an ordinary moment. They may have been uncertain about whether Jesus would meet with Gentiles, since His mission had primarily been among the Jewish people.

However, what happens next (John 12:23) shows that Jesus sees this request as a sign—His mission is now expanding beyond Israel, and His hour to bring salvation to the whole world is drawing near.

Historical Context

During this time, Jews and Gentiles were largely separated. While Gentiles could worship the God of Israel, they were not considered full members of God’s chosen people. Even in the temple, there was a “Court of the Gentiles”, beyond which non-Jews were forbidden to go.

Philip and Andrew’s hesitation could have come from their awareness of this cultural and religious boundary. They may have been wondering:

• Is it appropriate for Jesus to meet with these Greeks?
• Does Jesus’ ministry include non-Jews in this way?

It’s also significant that Philip and Andrew were both from Bethsaida (John 1:44), a city with a mix of Jews and Greeks. This could explain why the Greeks felt comfortable approaching Philip first. But even so, Philip sought out Andrew, possibly because Andrew had a close relationship with Jesus and had a habit of bringing people to Him (John 1:41).

Theological Implications

1. Jesus is Becoming More Accessible to the World – This moment hints at what is about to happen: Jesus’ mission is not just for Israel, but for all people (John 12:32).
2. Faith is Often Shared Through Relationships – The Greeks didn’t go to Jesus directly; they went through Philip, then Andrew. Many people come to Jesus today because someone introduced them to Him.
3. God’s Timing is Always Perfect – The fact that Greeks were seeking Jesus right before His crucifixion signaled that His saving work would soon be for all nations.
4. The Disciples Were Learning, Too – Philip wasn’t sure how to handle the request, but he brought it to Andrew, and together, they went to Jesus. This shows that following Jesus is a process of learning and growing in understanding.

Literary Analysis

John 12:22 serves as a transition verse between the request of the Greeks (John 12:21) and Jesus’ profound response (John 12:23).

• The delay before bringing the Greeks to Jesus creates tension—what will Jesus say?
• The involvement of two disciples suggests the careful consideration of an important request.
• This verse also reflects a pattern in John’s Gospel, where people bring others to Jesus (John 1:41-42, John 4:29).

John highlights the expanding influence of Jesus—no longer just within Israel, but reaching the nations. This moment points toward the Great Commission, when Jesus will send His disciples to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).

Biblical Cross-References

1. John 12:21 – The Greeks express their desire to see Jesus.
2. John 1:41-42 – Andrew brings his brother Simon Peter to Jesus.
3. John 10:16 – Jesus says He has “other sheep” (Gentiles) who will also follow Him.
4. John 12:32 – Jesus declares He will draw all people to Himself.
5. Acts 1:8 – Jesus commands His disciples to take the gospel to the ends of the earth.
6. Ephesians 2:13-14 – Jesus breaks down the dividing wall between Jews and Gentiles.
7. Matthew 28:19-20 – The Great Commission: Go and make disciples of all nations.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. Sometimes We Need Help Bringing Others to Jesus – Philip wasn’t sure how to respond, so he went to Andrew. This reminds us that we can work together in leading others to Christ.
2. God Uses Relationships to Draw People to Himself – The Greeks came through Philip, then Andrew. Many people come to Christ because someone in their life introduced them to Him.
3. Jesus is for Everyone – Even before the Great Commission, we see a glimpse of Jesus’ mission extending beyond Israel.
4. It’s Okay to Have Questions – Philip wasn’t sure what to do, so he went to someone else. As believers, we may not have all the answers, but we can always bring our questions to Jesus.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is shown in how He makes a way for all people to come to Him. The Greeks weren’t turned away; instead, their request became a moment where Jesus pointed toward His upcoming sacrifice for the whole world.

This verse also shows that God works through people—Philip and Andrew were part of the process of bringing others to Jesus. In the same way, God invites us to be part of His mission, helping others find the truth in Christ.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus Welcomes All Who Seek Him – These Greeks represent the expanding reach of Jesus’ mission (John 12:32).
2. Jesus Uses His Followers to Bring Others to Him – Just as Philip and Andrew played a role, we are called to be messengers of the gospel (2 Corinthians 5:20).
3. Jesus’ Death Would Break Down Barriers – His coming sacrifice would remove the division between Jews and Gentiles, allowing all to have access to God (Ephesians 2:14).
4. Jesus’ Mission Was Always Global – Even though His ministry started in Israel, He always intended to save people from every nation (Revelation 7:9-10).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think Philip hesitated and went to Andrew before taking the Greeks to Jesus?
2. How does this passage show that Jesus’ message was for all people, not just the Jews?
3. Who in your life helped bring you to Jesus? How can you be that person for someone else?
4. Do you ever feel hesitant about sharing Jesus with certain people? What does this passage teach us about breaking down barriers?
5. How can you work with others to bring more people to Jesus, just as Philip and Andrew did?