John gives us a scene that has no parallel in any of the synoptic gospels. Following on the heels of the Pharisees' disgruntled observation, "Look, the world has gone after him" (v.19), John notes the arrival of "some Greeks" who voice their desire to "see Jesus" (vv.20-21). The fact that these "Greeks" have apparently gone up to worship at the temple during the Passover festival and that they are interested in "seeing" the now notable Jesus indicates that these figures are either "God-fearers" (Torah-observers but not circumcised) or full proselytes to Judaism.

Instead of confronting Jesus directly, the Greeks first seek out Philip to pull some strings. Philip in turn consults with Andrew before the two of them finally go to Jesus.

But, instead of focusing on what these seekers want, John…