ISB ~ John 12 v32

when I am lifted up:Refers primarily to the Crucifixion of Christ, as indicated in the next verse, but also hints at his Resurrection and Ascension (CCC 662). See note on Jn 3:14.

• The expression recalls the opening line of Isaiah’s fourth Servant Song, which runs from Is 52:13 to 53:12. The whole song is a prophetic depiction of the suffering of the Messiah, who will be exalted and lifted up in the sight of the nations, but only after he is cast down by his own people. Isaiah interprets the humiliation and death of this Servant as a redemptive sacrifice for sin.

draw all men to myself:Points to the worldwide acceptance of the gospel (Mt 28:18-20; Acts 1:8).

• As Isaiah envisioned the Davidic Messiah as an “ensign” posted for the ingathering of the “nations” and the “outcasts of Israel” (Is 11:10-12), so Jesus sees the world gathering around the “sign” of the Cross (CCC 542).