John 12:43

43 For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.

John 12:43 Meaning and Commentary

John 12:43

For they loved the praise of men
To be in the esteem of men, to have their applause, and receive honour from them:

more than the praise of God;
than either to receive honour from him, and be praised by him, or to praise and glorify him. By confessing Christ they knew they should run the risk of losing their places of honour and profit, and of falling under the disgrace and contempt of men; and therefore they chose rather not to confess Christ, than by so doing to glorify God, and please him, and be praised by him, as all the faithful professors of Christ will be at the last day; for then every such an one will have praise of God, and it will be said, well done good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of thy Lord.

John 12:43 In-Context

41 Isaiah was referring to Jesus when he said this, because he saw the future and spoke of the Messiah’s glory.

42 Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue.

43 For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.

44 Jesus shouted to the crowds, “If you trust me, you are trusting not only me, but also God who sent me.

45 For when you see me, you are seeing the one who sent me.