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John 12:31
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- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now is the judgment of this world - The judgment spoken of in this place is applied by some to the punishment which was about to fall on the Jewish people for rejecting Christ. And the ruler or prince, ὁ αρχων, of this world, is understood to be Satan, who had blinded the eyes of the Jews, and hardened their hearts, that they might not believe on the Son of God; but his kingdom, not only among the Jews, but in all the world, was about to be destroyed by the abolition of idolatry and the vocation of the Gentiles. The epithet סר העולם sar ha-olam, prince of this world, is repeatedly applied to the devil, or to Samael, who is termed the angel of death. The Jews fabled that, into the hands of this chief, God had delivered all the nations of the earth, except the Israelites. See Lightfoot. The words are understood by others as addressed to these believing Greeks, and to have the following meaning, which is extremely different from the other. "In a short time (four or five days afterwards) ye shall see what sort of a judgment this world passes. I, who am its ruler and prince, shall be cast out, shall be condemned by my own creatures, as an impious and wicked person. But do not be discouraged: though I be lifted up on the cross, and die like a malefactor, nevertheless I will draw all men unto myself. The Gospel of Christ crucified shall be the grand agent, in the hand of the Most High, of the conversion and salvation of a ruined world." But see on Joh 14:30 (note); Joh 16:11 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Now is the judgment of this world--the world that "crucified the Lord of glory" (Co1 2:8), considered as a vast and complicated kingdom of Satan, breathing his spirit, doing his work, and involved in his doom, which Christ's death by its hands irrevocably sealed. now shall the prince of this world be cast out--How differently is that fast-approaching "hour" regarded in the kingdoms of darkness and of light! "The hour of relief; from the dread Troubler of our peace--how near it is! Yet a little moment, and the day is ours!" So it was calculated and felt in the one region. "Now shall the prince of this world be cast out," is a somewhat different view of the same event. We know who was right. Though yet under a veil, He sees the triumphs of the Cross in unclouded and transporting light.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And I, if I be lifted up from the earth,.... The death of Christ is here signified by his being "lifted up from the earth", in allusion to the lifting up of the brazen serpent on the pole; and shows, that his death would not be natural, but violent, and would be public, and not private; and fitly expresses his mediation between God, and men, being lifted up between the heavens and the earth; and points out the death of the cross, as is intimated in the next verse: and the "if" here does not suppose that his death, and the manner of it, were uncertain, for it was determined by God, agreed to by himself, predicted in the Scriptures, signified by types, and foretold by himself, and was necessary for the salvation of his people; but it designs the time of his drawing persons to himself, which is afterwards expressed, and may be rendered, "when I am lifted up", as it is by the Syriac, Arabic, and Persic versions: now when this will be, Christ says, I will draw all men to me; which is not to be understood of the concourse of people about him, when on the cross, some for him, and others against him, some to bewail him, and others to reproach him; but rather of the gathering of the elect to him, and in him, as their head and representative, when he was crucified for them; or of the collection of them, through the ministry of the apostles, and of their being brought to believe on him for eternal life and salvation: and this drawing of them to him, in consequence of his death, supposes distance from him, want of power, and will, to came to him, and the efficacious grace of God to bring them, though without any force and compulsion; and this is to be understood not of every individual of human nature; for all are not drawn to Christ, or enabled to come to him, and believe in him. There were many of the Jews who would not, and did not come to him for life; and who instead of being drawn to him in this sense, when lifted up on the cross, vilified and reproached him; moreover, in the preceding verse, "a world" is spoken of, whose judgment, or condemnation, was now come; and besides, there was at this time a multitude of souls in hell, who could not, nor never will be, drawn to Christ; and a greater number still there will be at the last day, who, instead of drawing to him in this gracious way and manner, will be bid to depart from him, as having been workers of iniquity. Christ died indeed for all men who are drawn unto him; but this is not true of all men, that are, were, or shall be in the world. Add to this, that the word "men" is not in the text, it is only "all": Beza's most ancient copy, and some others, and the Vulgate Latin version read "all things"; and by "all" are meant, all the elect of God, all the children of God, "that were scattered abroad"; the Persic version reads, "I will draw my friends to me"; it designs some of all sorts of men, of every state, condition, age, sex, and nation, Gentiles as well as Jews, and especially the former; which agrees with the ancient prophecy, Gen 49:10, and with the context, and the occasion of the words, which was the desire of the Greeks, that were come to the feast, to see Jesus; and which was a specimen of the large numbers of them, that should be drawn to Christ, through the preaching of the Gospel, after his death: the Jews say, that in the time to come, or in the days of the Messiah, all the proselytes shall be "drawn", shall freely become proselytes (e). The allusion here, is to the setting up of a standard or ensign, to gather persons together. Christ's cross is the standard, his love is the banner, and he himself is the ensign, which draw souls to himself, and engage them to enlist themselves under him, and become his volunteers in the day his power; see Isa 11:10. (e) T. Bab. Avoda Zara, fol. 24. 1. & Gloss. in ib.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:31-33 The time for judging does not occur only on Judgment Day; it began when the light penetrated the darkness and unmasked it (3:19; 5:24; 9:39). • Satan, the ruler of this world, is the architect of darkness, corrupter of the world, and promoter of death. Although Satan’s final demise lies in the future, the work of Christ unraveled Satan’s domain (see Luke 10:17-18; Mark 3:27). Christ is now enthroned as ruler in heaven (Acts 7:55-56; Eph 1:19-22).
John 12:31
Jesus Predicts His Death
30In response, Jesus said, “This voice was not for My benefit, but yours.31Now judgment is upon this world; now the prince of this world will be cast out.32And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw everyone to Myself.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Exodus) Exodus 25:29-30
By J. Vernon McGee3.2K06:57EXO 25:23LEV 24:5MAT 22:1JHN 6:48JHN 12:24JHN 12:27JHN 12:31In this sermon, the preacher discusses the significance of the showbread in the Bible. The showbread was made of grain and symbolized Christ. The preacher draws parallels between the showbread and Jesus, highlighting how Jesus was ground in the mill of suffering and brought into the fire of suffering and judgment. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of feeding on Christ for spiritual growth and sustenance.
Skyland Conference 1988 (Two Kingdoms) - Part 1
By William MacDonald1.4K40:10Kingdom Of GodMAT 6:33JHN 12:312CO 2:112CO 4:4COL 1:91JN 5:19In this sermon, the preacher discusses the emptiness of the world and how it fails to satisfy the human heart. He references a story about a young entertainer who had achieved fame and success but still felt empty inside. The preacher emphasizes that the world portrayed in media and entertainment is not the reality and urges young people to see beyond its allure. He also highlights biblical passages that speak about the ruler of this world being judged and the need to be aware of the devil's devices.
Studies in 1 John 09 His Witness Tt World
By John W. Bramhall75451:17MAT 6:33JHN 12:311JN 3:71JN 4:11JN 4:71JN 5:61JN 5:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of salvation and the work of Christ on the cross. He highlights the role of the Spirit of God in convicting individuals of their need for regeneration and the cleansing power of Christ's blood. The preacher also discusses the manifestation of brotherly love among believers as a requirement and delight to God. He concludes by emphasizing the historical significance and value of Christ's death and the role of the Spirit of Truth in convicting people of sin, righteousness, and judgment. The sermon is rooted in biblical references, including Ecclesiastes 3:14 and the message of salvation through the blood of Jesus.
Authority and Unbelief Part 1
By Phil Beach Jr.2649:59Authority of BelieversFaith in ActionUnbeliefISA 61:1MAT 4:23MAT 17:20MRK 16:17LUK 10:19JHN 12:31ACT 1:8EPH 1:17HEB 11:6JAS 2:26Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the necessity of moving beyond mere belief in God's omnipotence to actively participating in faith through obedience and action. He illustrates this with examples from the lives of Abraham and Peter, highlighting that true faith requires stepping out and trusting God, especially in challenging circumstances. The sermon warns against the complacency of the church, which acknowledges God's power but fails to act on it, and calls for a deeper intimacy with God to empower believers to perform His works. Beach stresses that the authority given to the church is meant to be exercised through faith, prayer, and a commitment to God's will, urging believers to confront their unbelief and embrace their role in God's plan.
Authority and Unbelief Part 2
By Phil Beach Jr.1040:09UnbeliefAuthority in ChristOvercoming UnbeliefMAT 6:10MAT 12:28MAT 28:18MRK 16:15LUK 10:19JHN 12:31EPH 1:20COL 1:16COL 2:14HEB 2:14Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the power of faith and the authority believers have through Christ, asserting that Satan has already been defeated at Calvary. He encourages the congregation to embrace their identity in Christ, which grants them authority over darkness and empowers them to bring God's will to earth. The sermon highlights the importance of believing God's Word and living in the reality of Christ as our life, which enables believers to overcome the enemy and fulfill their purpose. Beach Jr. calls for a revolution in faith that will impact not just individuals but entire cities, urging the church to rise in its authority and proclaim the truth of the Gospel.
Epistle 172
By George Fox0Identity in ChristPerseverance in FaithEZK 16:49JHN 12:311CO 2:8EPH 2:192TI 3:5HEB 11:101PE 2:62PE 2:6REV 5:9George Fox emphasizes that believers are part of the royal seed, chosen and precious in God's sight, called to live righteously amidst a world filled with ungodliness. He highlights the persecution faced by the faithful, who are often at odds with the worldly powers that oppose the truth of Christ. Fox calls for a return to the true essence of faith, where love and righteousness reign, contrasting it with the hypocrisy of those who profess religion without embodying its spirit. He asserts that true believers are anointed by God, tasked with preaching righteousness and standing firm against the corruption of the world. Ultimately, he encourages the faithful to recognize their identity as kings and priests, empowered to reign with Christ against the forces of darkness.
The Place of Victory Over Satan.
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual WarfareVictory in ChristJHN 12:31Watchman Nee emphasizes that through the Cross, Jesus not only atoned for our sins but also defeated Satan, which is crucial for believers to understand in their spiritual battles. He warns that many Christians are unaware of the spiritual warfare they face, often succumbing to defeat due to a lack of recognition of the enemy's tactics. Nee encourages believers to realize their union with Christ and the power of the Cross in overcoming evil forces. He stresses the importance of being equipped for spiritual warfare and understanding that personal conflicts are part of a larger battle against darkness. Ultimately, he calls Christians to stand firm in their victory through Christ and to prepare for the return of the King.
The Proclamation of the Kingdom
By T. Austin-Sparks0Cosmic ConflictProclamation of the KingdomPSA 2:6MAT 24:14MAT 28:18JHN 12:31ROM 5:1EPH 1:21PHP 2:9COL 1:20COL 2:15HEB 1:2T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom, which is fundamentally about the royal reign of Jesus Christ. He explains that this proclamation is not merely an announcement but a call to establish evidence of Christ's lordship in the world. The sermon highlights the cosmic conflict between the Kingdom of God and the usurper, Satan, and the necessity for Christians to embody the truth of the Gospel in their lives. Sparks challenges both believers and non-believers to recognize their allegiance to either Christ or the Devil, urging a response to the call of the Kingdom. Ultimately, he stresses the urgency of this mission as the fulfillment of God's plan awaits the testimony of His Church.
The New Israel's Passover
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Lord's TableSpiritual VictoryEXO 12:13MAT 26:26JHN 12:31JHN 17:16ROM 8:11CO 11:26COL 2:15HEB 12:231PE 1:18REV 5:9T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the Lord's Table as the new Israel's Passover, highlighting its universal presence in Christianity and the danger of losing its profound meaning. He explains that the Lord's Supper represents not only what Christ has done for us but also the implications of our participation in His victory over evil. The sermon draws parallels between the Passover in Exodus and the Lord's Table, illustrating how the blood of the Passover Lamb signifies our deliverance from judgment and our identity as the Church of the First-born. Sparks urges believers to recognize their separation from the world and the Lord's absolute authority in their lives as they partake in the communion. He calls for a deeper spiritual understanding of the Lord's Table, reminding us of our commitment to Christ and the victory we celebrate.
Spiritual Warfare - Two Creations Under Rival Authorities
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual WarfareAuthority in ChristJHN 12:31JHN 14:30EPH 6:10T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the reality of spiritual warfare, highlighting the conflict between two creations: the old creation governed by the prince of this world and the new creation under Christ's authority. He explains that the battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces, urging believers to recognize the importance of their spiritual state in overcoming the enemy. Sparks illustrates how Satan operates through the soul, manipulating emotions and thoughts, while Christ works through the spirit, empowering believers to resist and defeat the adversary. The sermon calls for a deep understanding of the spiritual realm and the necessity of bringing the soul into subjection to the spirit for true victory. Ultimately, the message encourages believers to engage in spiritual discipline and faith to effectively combat the forces of darkness.
Grace Reigns
By Robert Anderson0GraceThe Gospel of GloryEXO 33:18ISA 12:2JHN 1:17JHN 3:19JHN 12:31ROM 2:6ROM 5:21ROM 11:33COL 2:151TI 1:11Robert Anderson emphasizes the supremacy of grace in the Gospel, illustrating how God's glory is revealed through His sovereign grace. He warns against preaching a mixed gospel that undermines God's glory and the hope of sinners, stressing that salvation is solely through the blood of Christ and the grace it brings. Anderson explains that the death of Christ marked a pivotal moment in history, where grace triumphed over sin, allowing for the possibility of eternal life for all who believe. He highlights that grace reigns not at the expense of righteousness but through it, affirming that God's blessings are available to all, regardless of their past. Ultimately, he calls believers to rejoice in the grace that has been extended to them through Christ's sacrifice.
The Mind Behind the System
By Watchman Nee0The Kingdom of GodSpiritual WarfareJHN 12:31Watchman Nee emphasizes the profound implications of Jesus' declaration in John 12:31-32, where He speaks of the judgment of the world and the casting out of its prince. He explains that while Jesus' words may have shattered the hopes of the crowd, they also herald a new reign of righteousness through His death and resurrection. Nee explores the concept of 'cosmos' as a system governed by Satan, highlighting the need for believers to discern the spiritual forces behind worldly affairs. He warns against the seductive nature of the world and urges Christians to remain vigilant against its influences, ultimately reminding them that their allegiance must be to Christ and His kingdom. The sermon calls for a critical examination of how the world affects one's relationship with God.
The Trend Away From God
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual DiscernmentWorldlinessGEN 1:11ISA 53:6MAT 16:26JHN 12:31ROM 12:21CO 1:212CO 6:17PHP 3:8JAS 4:41JN 5:19Watchman Nee addresses the alarming trend away from God, emphasizing that while Christians recognize sinful things as Satanic, they often overlook the worldly pursuits like education, science, and culture that are equally under Satan's influence. He warns that the entire world lies in the evil one, and even seemingly innocent endeavors can lead believers astray if not kept under God's authority. Nee illustrates this with examples from history and personal experience, showing how institutions founded on Christian principles can drift into worldly standards once divine influence wanes. He concludes that true deliverance from these entanglements is not merely through personal dedication but through the mercy and redemptive work of God, urging believers to tread carefully in all worldly matters.
Victory Through the Blood
By Andrew Murray0The Power of the BloodVictory in ChristJHN 12:31HEB 9:22REV 12:11Andrew Murray emphasizes the profound victory achieved through the blood of the Lamb, illustrating the eternal conflict between good and evil, culminating in Christ's resurrection which defeated Satan. He explains that while the initial victory was won at the cross, believers are called to engage in a continuous battle against evil, empowered by faith in the blood of Jesus. Murray highlights that this victory is not only a past event but an ongoing reality that believers can share in, as they live in the assurance of their reconciliation with God. The sermon encourages Christians to recognize their position in Christ and to actively participate in the victory over sin and Satan through faith and the power of the blood. Ultimately, the message is one of hope and empowerment, reminding believers that they can overcome through the blood of the Lamb.
Twee Koninkrijken - 2 (Dutch)
By Anton Bosch0MAT 13:25JHN 3:3JHN 12:312CO 4:4GAL 6:15REV 19:16Anton Bosch preaches about the stark differences between the Kingdom of God and the kingdoms of the world, emphasizing that God's Kingdom is completely separate and will never merge with worldly kingdoms. While the ruler of the world and its kingdoms is Satan, those who participate in worldly kingdoms ultimately submit to his authority. In contrast, the Kingdom of God is under the sovereignty of Jesus, but many who claim to be part of this Kingdom do not fully submit to His rule, acting as their own kings. Being a resident of God's Kingdom requires unwavering loyalty to the King.
Two Kingdoms - 2
By Anton Bosch0JER 31:33MAT 6:10MAT 13:25JHN 3:3JHN 12:311CO 2:142CO 4:4GAL 6:15REV 19:16Anton Bosch preaches on the clear distinction between the Kingdom of God and the kingdoms of the world, emphasizing that God's Kingdom is fundamentally different and eternal, while worldly kingdoms are under the rule of Satan. He highlights the importance of submitting to Jesus as the King of God's Kingdom, stressing that true citizens must show unwavering loyalty and obedience to Him. Bosch warns against disloyalty within the Kingdom, comparing it to treason, and urges believers to be born again into God's Kingdom to truly become citizens and see its spiritual reality.
What Age Are You Living For?
By Allan Halton0MAT 13:39JHN 12:311CO 2:61CO 2:82CO 4:4GAL 1:4EPH 2:2Allan Halton reflects on the grief and pain felt for the tragic loss of young lives, questioning the darkness and evil prevalent in this present age. He delves into the concept of two ages mentioned in the Bible - the current age ruled by darkness and evil, and the age to come characterized by light and righteousness. Halton emphasizes that God is actively working in this present age, planting seeds of the coming age through His children of light who live for the future kingdom of God. He points to Jesus as the Man from Another Age who initiated the Kingdom of God, bringing hope for the inevitable harvest and the separation of the righteous from the wicked at the end of the age.
The City Which Hath Foundations
By T. Austin-Sparks0Heavenly CitizenshipSpiritual Significance of JerusalemEZK 5:5JHN 12:31JHN 14:30JHN 16:33ACT 7:2GAL 4:26PHP 3:20HEB 11:10REV 21:13REV 21:24T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the spiritual significance of Jerusalem, illustrating how it is central to God's divine plan and serves as a reflection of the heavenly city. He discusses the historical and geographical importance of Syria and Jerusalem, noting that their true value lies in their spiritual essence, which transcends earthly existence. Sparks draws parallels between the earthly Jerusalem and the New Jerusalem, highlighting the need for the Church to embody heavenly principles and maintain separation from worldly influences. He urges believers to recognize their heavenly citizenship and the importance of living as pilgrims and strangers in this world, ultimately pointing to the Church's role in God's eternal purpose.
Amillennialism
By Anthony Hoekema0MAT 12:29LUK 10:17JHN 12:31REV 20:1REV 20:4Anthony Hoekema delves into the amillennial understanding of the millennium, focusing on the interpretation of the book of Revelation, Revelation 20:1-6, Old Testament passages, amillennial eschatology, and the implications of this view. He explains the concept of realized millennialism, emphasizing that the millennium of Revelation 20 is currently in process of realization, not exclusively a future event. Hoekema presents a system of interpretation called progressive parallelism, detailing the seven sections of Revelation that run parallel to each other, depicting the church and the world from Christ's first coming to His second.
The Offence of the Cross (Galatians 5:11)
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Offense of the CrossSpiritual TransformationMAT 16:24LUK 9:23JHN 12:31ROM 6:61CO 1:182CO 5:14GAL 5:11COL 2:151PE 2:24REV 12:11T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound offense of the Cross as articulated in Galatians 5:11, noting that while the Cross brings hope and life, it also incites persecution and antagonism. He explains that the Cross serves as a dividing line between the old world and the new, condemning worldly values and demanding a radical transformation in believers. The message of the Cross not only crucifies the flesh but also casts out the devil, making it a target for opposition from both the world and the church. Sparks highlights that true spirituality requires accepting the Cross's verdict on our lives, leading to the manifestation of Christ's life within us. Ultimately, he asserts that the Cross is God's sole means of salvation and victory over sin and evil.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now is the judgment of this world - The judgment spoken of in this place is applied by some to the punishment which was about to fall on the Jewish people for rejecting Christ. And the ruler or prince, ὁ αρχων, of this world, is understood to be Satan, who had blinded the eyes of the Jews, and hardened their hearts, that they might not believe on the Son of God; but his kingdom, not only among the Jews, but in all the world, was about to be destroyed by the abolition of idolatry and the vocation of the Gentiles. The epithet סר העולם sar ha-olam, prince of this world, is repeatedly applied to the devil, or to Samael, who is termed the angel of death. The Jews fabled that, into the hands of this chief, God had delivered all the nations of the earth, except the Israelites. See Lightfoot. The words are understood by others as addressed to these believing Greeks, and to have the following meaning, which is extremely different from the other. "In a short time (four or five days afterwards) ye shall see what sort of a judgment this world passes. I, who am its ruler and prince, shall be cast out, shall be condemned by my own creatures, as an impious and wicked person. But do not be discouraged: though I be lifted up on the cross, and die like a malefactor, nevertheless I will draw all men unto myself. The Gospel of Christ crucified shall be the grand agent, in the hand of the Most High, of the conversion and salvation of a ruined world." But see on Joh 14:30 (note); Joh 16:11 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Now is the judgment of this world--the world that "crucified the Lord of glory" (Co1 2:8), considered as a vast and complicated kingdom of Satan, breathing his spirit, doing his work, and involved in his doom, which Christ's death by its hands irrevocably sealed. now shall the prince of this world be cast out--How differently is that fast-approaching "hour" regarded in the kingdoms of darkness and of light! "The hour of relief; from the dread Troubler of our peace--how near it is! Yet a little moment, and the day is ours!" So it was calculated and felt in the one region. "Now shall the prince of this world be cast out," is a somewhat different view of the same event. We know who was right. Though yet under a veil, He sees the triumphs of the Cross in unclouded and transporting light.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And I, if I be lifted up from the earth,.... The death of Christ is here signified by his being "lifted up from the earth", in allusion to the lifting up of the brazen serpent on the pole; and shows, that his death would not be natural, but violent, and would be public, and not private; and fitly expresses his mediation between God, and men, being lifted up between the heavens and the earth; and points out the death of the cross, as is intimated in the next verse: and the "if" here does not suppose that his death, and the manner of it, were uncertain, for it was determined by God, agreed to by himself, predicted in the Scriptures, signified by types, and foretold by himself, and was necessary for the salvation of his people; but it designs the time of his drawing persons to himself, which is afterwards expressed, and may be rendered, "when I am lifted up", as it is by the Syriac, Arabic, and Persic versions: now when this will be, Christ says, I will draw all men to me; which is not to be understood of the concourse of people about him, when on the cross, some for him, and others against him, some to bewail him, and others to reproach him; but rather of the gathering of the elect to him, and in him, as their head and representative, when he was crucified for them; or of the collection of them, through the ministry of the apostles, and of their being brought to believe on him for eternal life and salvation: and this drawing of them to him, in consequence of his death, supposes distance from him, want of power, and will, to came to him, and the efficacious grace of God to bring them, though without any force and compulsion; and this is to be understood not of every individual of human nature; for all are not drawn to Christ, or enabled to come to him, and believe in him. There were many of the Jews who would not, and did not come to him for life; and who instead of being drawn to him in this sense, when lifted up on the cross, vilified and reproached him; moreover, in the preceding verse, "a world" is spoken of, whose judgment, or condemnation, was now come; and besides, there was at this time a multitude of souls in hell, who could not, nor never will be, drawn to Christ; and a greater number still there will be at the last day, who, instead of drawing to him in this gracious way and manner, will be bid to depart from him, as having been workers of iniquity. Christ died indeed for all men who are drawn unto him; but this is not true of all men, that are, were, or shall be in the world. Add to this, that the word "men" is not in the text, it is only "all": Beza's most ancient copy, and some others, and the Vulgate Latin version read "all things"; and by "all" are meant, all the elect of God, all the children of God, "that were scattered abroad"; the Persic version reads, "I will draw my friends to me"; it designs some of all sorts of men, of every state, condition, age, sex, and nation, Gentiles as well as Jews, and especially the former; which agrees with the ancient prophecy, Gen 49:10, and with the context, and the occasion of the words, which was the desire of the Greeks, that were come to the feast, to see Jesus; and which was a specimen of the large numbers of them, that should be drawn to Christ, through the preaching of the Gospel, after his death: the Jews say, that in the time to come, or in the days of the Messiah, all the proselytes shall be "drawn", shall freely become proselytes (e). The allusion here, is to the setting up of a standard or ensign, to gather persons together. Christ's cross is the standard, his love is the banner, and he himself is the ensign, which draw souls to himself, and engage them to enlist themselves under him, and become his volunteers in the day his power; see Isa 11:10. (e) T. Bab. Avoda Zara, fol. 24. 1. & Gloss. in ib.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:31-33 The time for judging does not occur only on Judgment Day; it began when the light penetrated the darkness and unmasked it (3:19; 5:24; 9:39). • Satan, the ruler of this world, is the architect of darkness, corrupter of the world, and promoter of death. Although Satan’s final demise lies in the future, the work of Christ unraveled Satan’s domain (see Luke 10:17-18; Mark 3:27). Christ is now enthroned as ruler in heaven (Acts 7:55-56; Eph 1:19-22).