John 12 - NIV God’s Justice Bible

12:4–8 Caring for the Poor Judas’s objection to Mary’s loving and extravagant act is just a disguise to hide his crookedness. Yet others have seen in Jesus’ declaration about the poor their justification for opposing fairer relations in society. Jesus is not stating socioeconomic policy but emphasizing the imminence of his death, while still affirming the importance of caring for the poor at every opportunity. The Scripture he quotes goes on to emphasize that point (Deut 15:11).

12:23–26 Die and Live A fruitful life springs from a willingness to die. There are two mutually exclusive ways to live: either one lives for oneself or one lives for others. The first option leads ultimately to death, the second to eternal life. The second is Jesus’ way and should be his disciples’ too. It entails renouncing the pursuit of your own honor for the sake of sharing Jesus’ destiny and receiving honor from the Father.

12:27–36 Agony in Obedience Jesus’ faithfulness to his mission takes precedence over his personal anguish. Everything in his ministry has glorified the Father. And in his death both he and the Father will be glorified. What appears to be the victory of Jesus’ enemies is in fact a declaration of God’s judgment on the world that has rejected Jesus and on the power that fosters such rebellion against God. This crucified Messiah, who shatters expectations, is the source of eternal life. As such he will draw to himself all humankind without distinction.