John 12:33 – “He said this to show the kind of death he was going to die.”

Extended Explanation

This verse follows Jesus’ statement in John 12:32, where He says, “And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” Here, John, the writer of the Gospel, explains what Jesus meant. The phrase “lifted up” was not just symbolic—it specifically referred to His coming death by crucifixion.

In ancient times, crucifixion was a brutal form of execution, typically reserved for criminals and enemies of the state. Unlike other forms of execution, crucifixion involved being physically lifted above the ground on a cross. Jesus knew this would be the way He would die, and He wanted His followers to understand that His suffering was part of God’s plan.

This verse confirms that Jesus’ death was not an accident. He was not a victim of circumstances—He willingly walked the path that led to the cross. His death was a fulfillment of God’s purpose to bring salvation to the world.

Historical Context

Jesus spoke these words just a few days before His crucifixion. At this point in His ministry, He had performed many miracles and taught openly about the kingdom of God. The religious leaders were already plotting to kill Him (John 11:53), and Jesus was fully aware of what was coming.

During this time, crucifixion was the most shameful and painful form of execution. The Jewish people understood “lifting up” as both a physical act and a sign of public disgrace. Yet, instead of avoiding this suffering, Jesus openly predicted it.

Many in the crowd would have recognized the reference to crucifixion. However, they were expecting a Messiah who would conquer Rome and establish a kingdom on earth. The idea that the Messiah would suffer and die did not fit their expectations. This is why many struggled to accept Jesus’ words.

Theological Implications

1. Jesus’ death was intentional – He knew exactly how He would die, showing that His sacrifice was planned, not random.
2. The cross was necessary for salvation – Jesus’ suffering was not just an example of love; it was the means by which sin would be forgiven.
3. Jesus willingly submitted to God’s will – Instead of resisting or escaping, He embraced His role as the suffering Savior.
4. God’s plan included suffering and glory – Jesus’ death would look like defeat to the world, but it was actually the greatest victory over sin and death.

Literary Analysis

John 12:33 is a parenthetical statement by the Gospel writer, giving a narrator’s explanation of Jesus’ words in John 12:32. The verse is brief but clarifies an important truth: Jesus was not speaking figuratively. The phrase “the kind of death he was going to die” leaves no doubt that He was predicting His crucifixion.

John often adds explanations to Jesus’ statements, helping readers understand their deeper meaning. This is a common technique in his Gospel (see John 2:21, John 7:39, and John 21:19). In each case, John provides insight into Jesus’ words after the event has taken place, making it clear that everything unfolded according to God’s plan.

Biblical Cross-References

• John 3:14 – “Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up.” Jesus had already hinted at His crucifixion earlier in His ministry.
• John 18:31-32 – “This took place to fulfill what Jesus had said about the kind of death he was going to die.” The Roman method of execution (crucifixion) was necessary to fulfill His prophecy.
• Psalm 22:16 – “They pierce my hands and my feet.” A prophecy written centuries before Christ, describing His crucifixion.
• Isaiah 53:5 – “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities.” Another prophecy that foretells Jesus’ suffering.
• Luke 9:22 – “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected… and he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.” Jesus frequently predicted His death.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For believers today, John 12:33 is a reminder that Jesus’ death was not just a tragic event—it was God’s plan of salvation. His suffering and sacrifice were necessary for our forgiveness.

This verse also challenges Christians to trust in God’s plan, even when it includes suffering. Jesus knew His death was coming, yet He did not resist it. In the same way, believers are called to take up their cross and follow Him (Luke 9:23), trusting that God’s purpose is greater than present suffering.

Additionally, John 12:33 reinforces the importance of sharing the gospel. Jesus was “lifted up” so that He could “draw all people” to Himself. As Christians, we are called to point others to the cross, where salvation is found.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Some may wonder how a loving God could allow His Son to suffer. But John 12:33 reveals that Jesus’ death was not a sign of God’s absence, but of His deep love for humanity.

God’s love is not just sentimental—it is sacrificial. He did not spare His own Son but gave Him up so that we could be saved (Romans 8:32). The cross is the clearest proof of God’s love.

Rather than avoiding suffering, Jesus embraced it so that we could be freed from sin. That is what true love looks like—a willingness to suffer for the sake of others.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

John 12:33 is directly tied to Jesus’ mission. He came not just to teach or perform miracles but to die for the sins of the world. This verse highlights several key truths about Jesus:

1. He is the suffering Savior – Unlike earthly kings, Jesus would be “lifted up” not in honor, but in humiliation. Yet, through that suffering, He would bring salvation.
2. He fulfilled prophecy – The method of His death was foretold centuries before. Jesus willingly walked the path laid out for Him in Scripture.
3. His death led to victory – While the cross seemed like defeat, it was actually the moment Satan’s power was broken (John 12:31).
4. He calls all people to Himself – His death was not just for one nation or one group, but for everyone who believes in Him.

• Matthew 20:28 – “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
• Hebrews 2:9 – “But we do see Jesus… now crowned with glory and honor because he suffered death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone.”
• Revelation 5:9 – “You were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.”

Jesus’ crucifixion was the centerpiece of His mission. Without His sacrifice, there would be no salvation.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does it mean to you that Jesus willingly chose to suffer and die?
2. How does Jesus’ prophecy of His own death strengthen your faith in God’s plan?
3. How does this verse challenge you to trust God, even when you don’t understand His plans?
4. How can you point others to Jesus, who was “lifted up” for the salvation of the world?
5. What are some practical ways you can respond to Jesus’ sacrifice with gratitude and obedience?