John 8:30 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

As he spake these words, many believed on him.— It seems probable, that by the phrase of lifting up, the Jews did not understand our Lord's crucifixion, but his exaltation to the throne and kingdom of David. Hearing him, therefore, speak of a temporal kingdom, as they supposed, they began now to think that he entertained sentiments worthy of the Messiah; and on that account acknowledged him as such, believing the doctrine that he had delivered concerning his divine mission. Or, if this supposition be not admitted, and it be thought that they understood him in the proper sense, we may reasonably believe, that through grace they felt their hearts impressed with what they heard from him in the whole preceding discourse, as well as by observing his temper and conduct; seeing him bear the perverseness of his enemies with so much patience; hearing him speak of an ignominious and painful death with such holy composure, and expressing so genuine and lively a sense of his Father's approbation, and so sweet a complacency in it.