John 7:13

13 No one spoke about him publicly, though, for fear of the Jewish authorities.

John 7:13 Meaning and Commentary

John 7:13

Howbeit, no man spoke openly of him
So loud as to be overheard, at least by many, but in a secret and whispering way; or did not speak with freedom, or all their mind, what they really thought of him, nor with courage and boldness:

for fear the Jews;
for fear of being mobbed by them, or up and prosecuted, or turned out of the synagogue; for a law was made, that whoever confessed him, should be so used; and this deterred persons from expressing the true sentiments of their minds about him.

John 7:13 In-Context

11 The Jewish leaders were looking for Jesus at the festival. They kept asking, "Where is he?"

12 The crowds were murmuring about him. "He's a good man," some said, but others were saying, "No, he tricks the people."

13 No one spoke about him publicly, though, for fear of the Jewish authorities.

14 Halfway through the festival, Jesus went up to the temple and started to teach.

15 Astonished, the Jewish leaders asked, "He's never been taught! How has he mastered the Law?"