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His disciples didn`t understand these things at first, but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things were written about him, and that they had done these things to him.

Verse Takeaways

1

Spiritual Insight is a Process

Commentators consistently note that the disciples' failure to grasp the prophetic significance of the Triumphal Entry was not a unique fault. It illustrates a common spiritual principle: understanding God's plan is often a process, not an instant event. John Calvin compares it to a seed that takes time to grow. This should encourage believers who don't immediately understand every aspect of God's word or work in their lives.

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Commentaries

9

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On John 12:16

18th Century

Theologian

Was glorified. Was raised from the dead, and had ascended to heaven.

AT Robertson

AT Robertson

On John 12:16

Understood not (ουκ εγνωσαν). Second aorist active indicative of γινωσκω. Another comment by John concerning the failure of the di…

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On John 12:16

19th Century

Bishop

These things understood not his disciples at the first . . .—Compare Notes on John 2:22; John 20:9. It is a touch peculiar to S…

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Charles Spurgeon

Charles Spurgeon

On John 12:16

19th Century

Preacher

These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of hi…

Expositor's Bible Commentary

Expositor's Bible Commentary

On John 12:16

This parenthetical statement by the author states that the disciples did not then understand the situation but that they later comprehended it (cf.…

John Calvin

John Calvin

On John 12:16

16th Century

Theologian

These things his disciples did not understand at first. Just as the seed does not sprout as soon as it is sown in the earth, so the result…

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John Gill

John Gill

On John 12:16

17th Century

Pastor

These things understood not his disciples at the first ,
&c.] Or "at that time", as the Syriac and Persic versions r…

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On John 12:12–19

17th Century

Minister

Christ's riding in triumph to Jerusalem is recorded by all the evangelists. Many excellent things, both in the word and providence of God, disciple…