John 12:9

Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.

Much {G4183} people {G3793} of {G1537} the Jews {G2453} therefore {G3767} knew {G1097} that {G3754} he was {G2076} there {G1563}: and {G2532} they came {G2064} not {G3756} for {G1223} Jesus {G2424}' sake only {G3440}, but {G235} that {G2443} they might see {G1492} Lazarus {G2976} also {G2532}, whom {G3739} he had raised {G1453} from {G1537} the dead {G3498}.

A large crowd of Judeans learned that he was there; and they came not only because of Yeshua, but also so that they could see El‘azar, whom he had raised from the dead.

Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews learned that Jesus was there. And they came not only because of Him, but also to see Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead.

The common people therefore of the Jews learned that he was there: and they came, not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.

Commentary

John 12:9 describes the significant public interest surrounding Jesus during His final week before the crucifixion, specifically in Bethany. This verse immediately follows the account of a supper given in Jesus’ honor, where Lazarus, whom Jesus had recently raised from the dead, was also present.

Context

This verse is set in Bethany, just six days before the Passover, an event that would culminate in Jesus' crucifixion. The preceding chapter, John 11, details the astonishing miracle of Jesus raising Lazarus from the grave after four days. This extraordinary event, particularly Lazarus coming forth from the tomb, had already caused a stir and drawn significant attention to Jesus, leading many to believe in Him. The gathering described in John 12:1-8, featuring Martha serving and Mary anointing Jesus' feet, provided a public setting where the newly resurrected Lazarus was visible, attracting large crowds.

Key Themes

  • The Power and Public Impact of Miracles: The resurrection of Lazarus was not a private affair but a public demonstration of Jesus' divine power over death. This miracle served as a powerful sign, compelling "much people" to come and see not only Jesus but also the living proof of His power.
  • Human Curiosity vs. Genuine Faith: The verse highlights that many came out of curiosity ("not for Jesus' sake only") to witness the man who had been dead and was now alive. While curiosity can be a starting point, it underscores the difference between seeking sensational signs and developing deep, abiding faith in Jesus as the Son of God. This contrasts with the motives of those who truly believed, as seen in John 11:45.
  • Lazarus as Eyewitness Testimony: Lazarus himself became a living testimony to Jesus' authority and power. His very presence was undeniable evidence, attracting more people and fueling the discussions about Jesus. This visible proof was so compelling that it also led to the religious leaders' plot against Lazarus, as described in John 12:10-11.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "Much people of the Jews" translates the Greek ochlos polys ek tōn Ioudaiōn (ὄχλος πολὺς ἐκ τῶν Ἰουδαίων), literally "a great crowd from among the Jews." The term ochlos (crowd) often refers to a large, unorganized multitude, emphasizing the sheer number of people drawn to Bethany by the news of Jesus and Lazarus. It signifies a public gathering rather than a formal assembly, underscoring the widespread impact of the miracle.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us that while God often uses powerful signs and transformed lives to draw attention to Himself, true faith goes beyond mere curiosity or the desire for spectacle. The living testimony of those whose lives have been genuinely changed by Christ (like Lazarus) remains a potent force in attracting others. However, the ultimate purpose is to lead people to Jesus Himself, to believe in Him as the Messiah and the giver of eternal life, as highlighted in John 20:31.

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Cross-References

  • Acts 4:14 (3 votes)

    And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.

  • John 11:43 (2 votes)

    And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.

  • John 11:45 (2 votes)

    ¶ Then many of the Jews which came to Mary, and had seen the things which Jesus did, believed on him.

  • Acts 3:10 (2 votes)

    And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him.

  • Acts 3:11 (2 votes)

    And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering.