John 12:43

43 For the praise of men was dearer to them than the approval 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 said these words because he saw his glory. His words were about him.)

42 However, a number even of the rulers had belief in him, but because of the Pharisees they did not say so openly for fear that they might be shut out from the Synagogue:

43 For the praise of men was dearer to them than the approval of God.

44 Then Jesus said with a loud voice, He who has faith in me, has faith not in me, but in him who sent me.

45 And he who sees me, sees him who sent me.