Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 12:26

"If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will the Father honor." — John 12:26 (ASV)

In this verse, Jesus explained what hating one’s life means. The impending Cross would involve the disciples in the same way it would involve Jesus, and he was informing them that he was the model for them to follow (cf. his discourse on the Good Shepherd; 10:4). “Going ahead of them” implies that he does first what he asks them to do and that he confronts the dangers before they encounter them. Jesus went on to promise that wherever he might go, his servants would be privileged to accompany him and share his glory (cf. 17:24).