John 12:21 Commentary - Garner-Howes Baptist Commentary

1 ) "The same came therefore to Philip," (houtoi oun proselthon Philippo) "Then these approached Philip," perhaps because his name was a Greek name, and may indicate that he had Greek relatives, or could speak to them in Greek more fluently.

2) "Which was of Bethsaida of Galilee," (to apo Bethsaida tes Galilaias) "The one who was from Bethsaida of Galilee," or the Philip of Bethsadia of Galilee. They had perhaps seen, and known, or known of him, as one who would receive them favorably, Joh 1:43-44; Joh 14:8-11.

3) "And desired him, saying, Sir," (kai eroton auton legontes kurie) "And they asked him, saying, sir," lord, or master, a respectful term of address. For what purpose one may not be certain, but from our Lord's response to the report they may have wanted to see Him only as a great site of the city, Joh 12:23.

4) "We would see Jesus." (thelomen ton lesoun idein) "We desire to see Jesus,'' or we desire to have a good look at Jesus, an interview with Him, about whom the people are talking everywhere, and the city is in an uproar wherever we turn, Joh 12:12; Joh 12:17-19.