“And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.” (John 12:23)
What Is Happening in the Passage
Some Greeks who had come to Jerusalem wanted to see Jesus. When Jesus heard about them, He said that the hour had come for the Son of man to be glorified. His saving work would reach far beyond one nation.
But Jesus did not begin talking about an earthly crown. He spoke about a grain of wheat falling into the ground and dying so that it could bear much fruit. Jesus was explaining that His road to glory would lead through the cross.
What This Teaches Us About God
God’s glory is seen in His perfect holiness, justice, mercy, and love. At the cross, God did not ignore sin or pretend that it did not matter.
The eternal Son willingly gave Himself for sinners. Jesus bore the judgment our sins deserved, showing both God’s righteousness and His saving love.
Supportive Scripture: “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities.” (Isaiah 53:5)
What This Teaches Us About Us
We often think glory means being praised, noticed, or treated as important. Our hearts want to protect themselves and hold tightly to what makes us feel secure.
The cross shows that our deepest problem is sin, not a lack of attention or success. We cannot rescue ourselves; every one of us needs the mercy Jesus alone can give.
Supportive Scripture: “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)
How This Leads Us to Jesus
The One who died upon the cross was not merely a good man. He was the Lord of glory, the eternal Son through whom all things were made.
Jesus was not helpless or defeated. He willingly laid down His life, bore sin, and rose again so that everyone who trusts Him may be forgiven and brought near to God.
Supportive Scripture: “No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself.” (John 10:18)
What This Means for Our Hearts
The cross should fill us with wonder. The glorious King loved sinners so deeply that He gave Himself to save us.
Because Jesus’ sacrifice is complete, we do not have to earn God’s forgiveness. We may confess our sin, trust Christ, and rest in His grace.
The Holy Spirit teaches us to follow Jesus with thankful hearts. His love frees us to obey God, serve others, and give up the need always to be first.
Supportive Scripture: “We love him, because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)
Words to Know
Glory – the greatness, beauty, holiness, and worth that belong to God.
Cross – the place where Jesus willingly died as the sacrifice for sinners.
Sacrifice – an offering given in another’s place; Jesus gave Himself once for our sins.
Mercy – God’s compassion toward sinners who deserve judgment.
Read another edition: Adult devotional · Formation Edition