Book of John - Chapter 12 - Verse 34

When the people questioned Jesus about the meaning of the phrase "The Son of man must be lifted up," they were referencing an Old Testament prophecy found in the book of Daniel. In the book of Daniel, the Son of man is a divine figure who is given eternal dominion over all peoples and nations. So when Jesus refers to himself as the Son of man, he is identifying himself as the fulfillment of this prophecy, the divine figure who will reign forever. The people were confused because they knew from the law that the Christ would abide forever, but they did not understand how this could be reconciled with the Son of man being lifted up. Jesus was teaching them that his death on the cross would be the means by which he would receive eternal dominion and fulfill the prophecy of the Son of man. Through this act of sacrifice, Jesus would overcome sin and death and establish his everlasting reign as the Messiah.

One theological interpretation of this verse from John 12:34 focuses on the concept of the Son of Man being lifted up. In this context, the people are referencing an Old Testament prophecy found in the book of Daniel where the Son of Man is given dominion, glory, and a kingdom that will never be destroyed. The people were puzzled because they understood from the Law that the Christ would abide forever, so they were confused as to why the Son of Man needed to be lifted up. The term "lifted up" alludes to Jesus being crucified on the cross, a pivotal event in Christian theology that symbolizes the ultimate sacrifice for humanity's sins. By examining the original Greek and Hebrew words used in this verse, scholars can gain further insights into the nuances of the text and deepen their understanding of the theological implications of Christ's sacrifice. This verse prompts readers to contemplate the identity and significance of the Son of Man in relation to the eternal nature of Christ and the redemptive work accomplished through his crucifixion.