Title: The Hour Has Come
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John 12:20–36
Now among those who went up to worship at the feast were some Greeks. So these came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and asked him, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” Philip went and told Andrew; Andrew and Philip went and told Jesus. And Jesus answered them, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.
“Now is my soul troubled. And what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But for this purpose I have come to this hour. Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven: “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.” The crowd that stood there and heard it said that it had thundered. Others said, “An angel has spoken to him.” Jesus answered, “This voice has come for your sake, not mine. Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” He said this to show by what kind of death he was going to die. So the crowd answered him, “We have heard from the Law that the Christ remains forever. How can you say that the Son of Man must be lifted up? Who is this Son of Man?” So Jesus said to them, “The light is among you for a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you. The one who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going. While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.”
When Jesus had said these things, he departed and hid himself from them. (ESV)
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In his sermon titled "The Hour Has Come," Lynn Kohler explores John 12:20–36, focusing on Jesus' declaration about the significance of his impending death. The passage begins with Greeks seeking Jesus, symbolizing the broader reach of Jesus' mission beyond Jewish boundaries. Responding to this, Jesus speaks metaphorically about a grain of wheat needing to die to produce much fruit, indicating that his death will lead to greater spiritual harvest.
Kohler emphasizes that true followers of Christ must be willing to lose their earthly lives to gain eternal life. He explains that serving and following Jesus involves a commitment that may lead to personal sacrifice but promises honor from the Father. Kohler also touches on Jesus’ troubled soul in anticipation of his crucifixion, underscoring the gravity and purpose of this pivotal moment.
The sermon concludes by urging believers to walk in the light while they have it. It challenges listeners to reflect on their lives and identify areas needing spiritual renewal, encouraging them not only to believe in Jesus but also to live out their faith actively. Through this message, Kohler calls for deep introspection and a recommitment to following Christ wholeheartedly.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.
