For this cause the people also met him, for that they heard that he had done this miracle.

JOHN 12:18KJV
Know the Bible

John 12:18 (KJV)

What does John 12:18 mean?

John 12:18 explains that the crowd went out to meet Jesus because they had heard about the miracle he performed. The verse points to the specific reason for the people's excitement and gathering: news of Jesus’ miraculous sign had spread.

In this part of John’s Gospel, the writer is describing the events leading up to Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. The “miracle” refers to Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, which had caused a stir among the people. The crowd’s motivation is not just curiosity, but a response to something extraordinary they had heard Jesus had done.

The Greek behind John 12:18

  • σημεῖον (sēmeion, “miracle”): This word is often translated as “sign” and points to an event with deeper meaning, not just a wonder but something that reveals who Jesus is. Here, it highlights that the people saw Jesus’ actions as significant and worth seeking out.
  • ὑπήντησεν (hypēntēsen, “met”): This verb means to go out and meet someone, often with eagerness or purpose. The crowd’s action is intentional—they are not just bystanders but are actively seeking Jesus because of what they heard.

Why John 12:18 matters

  • John 12:18 clarifies that the crowd’s interest in Jesus is directly tied to his miraculous works, not just his teachings or reputation.
  • This verse connects the excitement of Palm Sunday to the specific miracle of raising Lazarus, showing how news of Jesus’ power spread quickly and drew public attention.
  • Understanding this background helps explain the strong reaction of both the crowd and the religious leaders in the following verses, setting the stage for the events of Holy Week.

Where else these words appear

“met” Greek G5221 · used in 5 verses

  • Matthew 8:28 And when he was come to the other side into the country of the Gergesenes, there met him two possessed with devils, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man might pass by that way.
  • Luke 8:27 And when he went forth to land, there met him out of the city a certain man, which had devils long time, and ware no clothes, neither abode in any house, but in the tombs.
  • John 11:20 Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat still in the house.

“miracle” Greek G4592 · used in 69 verses

  • Matthew 12:38 Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee.
  • Luke 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;
  • Acts 4:30 By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.