John Calvin Commentary John 18:32

"that the word of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spake, signifying by what manner of death he should die." — John 18:32 (ASV)

That the word of Jesus might be fulfilled. Finally, the Evangelist adds that it was necessary for this to be done, so that the prediction which Christ had uttered might be fulfilled: The Son of man shall be delivered into the hands of the Gentiles (Matthew 20:19).

Indeed, if we wish to read the history of Christ’s death profitably, the chief point is to consider the eternal purpose of God. The Son of God is placed before the tribunal of a mortal man. If we suppose that this was done by the caprice of men, and do not raise our eyes to God, our faith must necessarily be confounded and put to shame.

But when we perceive that by the condemnation of Christ, our condemnation before God is blotted out—because it pleased the Heavenly Father to take this method of reconciling mankind to himself—we, raised on high by this single consideration, boldly, and without shame, glory even in Christ’s ignominy. Therefore, let us learn, in each part of this narrative, to turn our eyes to God as the Author of our redemption.