John 12:20-36
Grain which is thousands of years old but still capable of germinating has been found in ancient Egyptian tombs. Yet however much time has passed and even though it has been kept in very precious vases, this grain could not multiply. If the ears are to form, laden with other grains similar to the seed, the grain must be placed in the soil. It must be sacrificed. This is the figure the Lord Jesus uses in speaking of His death. The desire of the Greeks to see Him has drawn His thoughts to the marvellous results of His cross: the blessing of the nations under the universal rule of the Son of man; much fruit (end of v. 24); the judgment of Satan (v. 31); all men drawn to Him (v. 32). But what this hour means in suffering for Him also passes before His holy soul. And He turns to God who answers Him from heaven with the promise of resurrection (v. 28).
It was twilight now for the Jewish people. The Light was going to disappear over the horizon; the Lord Jesus was going to leave them (v. 35; Jeremiah 13:16). The present day of grace is drawing to a close for us too. The moment is coming when it will be no longer possible to believe (cf. v. 40). There was for the Lord Jesus an important "now" (vv. 27, 31). For us now is the time to believe in Him.