Albert Barnes Commentary John 12:21

"these therefore came to Philip, who was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and asked him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus." — John 12:21 (ASV)

Bethsaida of Galilee. See notes on John 1:44.

Would see Jesus. It is probable that the word 'see,' here, also implies a desire to converse with Him or to hear His doctrine about the nature of His kingdom. They had seen or heard of His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, and, either by curiosity or a desire to be instructed, they came and interceded with His disciples that they might be permitted to see Him.

In this there was nothing wrong. Christ made the curiosity of Zaccheus the means of his conversion (Luke 19:1–9). If we wish to find the Savior, we must seek Him and use the proper means.