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John 12:43
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
They loved the praise of men - Δοξαν, the glory or honor that cometh from men. How common are these four obstacles of faith! says Quesnel: 1. Too great a regard to men. 2. Riches and temporal advantages. 3. The fear of disgrace. 4. The love of the praise of men. Abundance of persons persuade themselves that they love God more than the world, till some trying occasion fully convinces them of their mistake. It is a very great misfortune for a person not to know himself but by his falls; but it is the greatest of all not to rise again after he has fallen. This is generally occasioned by the love of the praise of men, because in their account it is more shameful to rise again than it was to fall at first.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God--"a severe remark, considering that several at least of these persons afterwards boldly confessed Christ. It indicates the displeasure with which God regarded their conduct at this time, and with which He continues to regard similar conduct" [WEBSTER and WILKINSON].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Jesus cried and said,.... Upon this occasion, on account of the prevailing hardness and unbelief of the Jewish nation, and the non-confession of him by those who did believe him to be the Messiah. He cried with a loud voice, that he might be heard, and his audience left inexcusable; it denotes the concern of his mind, the vehemence of his spirit, and that openness and freedom in which he discharged his ministry, by showing the nature, excellency, and usefulness of believing in him, and the dangerous consequences of unbelief: he that believeth on me, believeth not on me; which is not to be understood simply and absolutely, for this would be a contradiction in terms: they that believe in Christ, do believe in him, and they do right to believe in him; Christ is the object of faith; he is proposed as such in the Gospel; and it is his Father's will, and his own advice, that his people should believe in him: but then those that truly believe in him, do not believe in him as a mere man, but as God, as the Son of God; and not as separate from, or to the exclusion of his Father: nor do they believe in him as a new, or another God, but as the one God with the Father, and the Spirit; for he and his Father are one: nor do they believe in him "only"; and so the Arabic version reads; but in God the Father also: nor does their faith rest in him, but it proceeds through him, as the Mediator unto God; see Pe1 1:21. Besides, he is here to be considered in his office capacity, as being sent of God; and he that believes on him as the sent of God, does not so much believe on him, as on the sender of him, as follows: but on him that sent me; just as whatever honour or dishonour are done to an ambassador, sent by an earthly king to a foreign court, are not so much done to the ambassador that is sent, as to the king that sends him; for what is done to him, is all one as if it was personally done to his prince: so he that despises Christ, despises him that sent him; and he that receives Christ, receives him that sent him; and he that believes on Christ, believes on him that sent him; see Luk 10:16.
John 12:43
Belief and Unbelief
42Nevertheless, many of the leaders believed in Him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, for fear that they would be put out of the synagogue.43For they loved praise from men more than praise from God.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Who's Slave Are You?
By Paul Washer5.1K57:43EXO 20:1MAT 6:33LUK 12:15JHN 12:43ROM 1:1GAL 1:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our duties to family and church over extracurricular activities. He encourages listeners to lay down their lives for their spouses and to show respect and honor in their marriages. The preacher also highlights the responsibility of parents to shape their lives according to the will of God and to prioritize their children's well-being. He warns against the prevalent mindset of self-gratification and emphasizes the need to serve others rather than constantly seeking personal gain. The sermon draws from biblical teachings on marriage, submission, and selflessness.
Hunger for God
By George Verwer2.6K37:48HungerPSA 34:1PSA 34:10PSA 37:4JHN 5:39JHN 12:431CO 15:58In this sermon, the speaker recounts a powerful experience he had in Madras, India. He describes waking up early in the morning to attend a worship service led by Brother Buck Singh. The service lasted for hours, with continuous singing, praying, and music. The speaker emphasizes the power of this worship and attributes Brother Buck Singh's success in bringing souls to God to the genuine devotion and absence of gimmicks or human theories. He encourages the audience to come undone and rely on the grace of God rather than relying on human efforts or seeking blessings through external actions. The speaker also mentions the importance of Bible teaching and the abundance of resources available in the English language compared to the lack of resources for reaching Muslims in India. He concludes by urging the audience to be still and know that God is with them, sharing a personal experience of finding solace and strength in God's presence during a challenging day.
Fren-08 Elijah the Prophet
By Art Katz1.9K1:17:36ElijahEXO 32:61KI 19:12MAT 6:33JHN 12:43ACT 20:28ROM 12:22CO 6:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Elijah and the brook drying up during a devastating drought in the land. The speaker emphasizes the importance of living by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God. Despite the brook drying up and the pressure from his family, Elijah remains obedient to God's command to arise and go. The speaker highlights the power and authority that comes from a life immersed in the word of God.
The in Crowd
By Winkie Pratney1.6K55:23MAT 6:33MAT 7:21MAT 23:12LUK 16:10LUK 18:14JHN 5:39JHN 12:43In this sermon, the speaker describes a scene where a man named Charlie is shown falling asleep while watching a film. The film depicts various events, including a countdown, a shot of the earth, and images of hunger and poverty. The sermon then shifts to a church planning session where the pastor is discussing ways to improve the church, but everyone is exhausted and falling asleep. The speaker uses this story to illustrate how people react when confronted with the light of truth, either by admitting their wrongdoings, avoiding the truth, or trying to resist it.
Through the Hands (Compilation)
By Compilations82211:23CompilationMAT 6:33MRK 1:44MRK 8:25JHN 12:43EPH 1:18COL 1:27HEB 13:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of transforming marriages and relationships by showing compassion and love to others. He encourages the audience to start at home and extend this love to those in need, such as single mothers and struggling individuals. The speaker emphasizes the power of seeing people through the eyes of Jesus and being willing to do what God asks. He also highlights the freedom and victory found in Christ and the need to set our affections on heavenly things. The sermon concludes with a reminder to allow Christ to work through us and to be obedient to His leading.
Spurious Believers #1
By Ernest C. Reisinger79452:15MAT 6:33LUK 8:12LUK 8:14JHN 2:23JHN 6:37JHN 12:43ACT 8:13In this sermon, the preacher discusses the parable of the sower and the different types of believers. He emphasizes the importance of having a strong foundation in faith and warns against being easily swayed or falling away during times of temptation. The preacher also highlights the narrow road to heaven and the dangers of presumption and despair. He encourages believers to hold onto God's promises and follow His precepts to avoid these pitfalls. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the need for genuine and steadfast faith in Jesus Christ.
The Captivity of the Righteous Part 5
By Phil Beach Jr.301:14:39True DiscipleshipChristian LifeDevotion to GodISA 53:1MAT 6:33MAT 11:28MAT 22:37LUK 14:26JHN 12:43JHN 21:22ACT 4:32PHP 3:191PE 3:3Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of finding true satisfaction and peace in God rather than in worldly concerns, particularly for young people who often fret about their future. He encourages them to devote their hearts fully to God, assuring that if they seek Him first, everything else will fall into place. The sermon highlights the need to prioritize following Jesus over seeking the approval of others, as true discipleship requires a willingness to lay aside personal ambitions and societal pressures. Beach also addresses the dangers of being captivated by health, wealth, and family, urging believers to seek freedom from these distractions to fully embrace their relationship with Christ.
Seeking Approval
By A.W. Tozer3Approval Of GodFreedom from People-PleasingPRO 29:25MAT 6:1JHN 12:43GAL 1:102TI 4:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes the futility of seeking human approval in the Christian life, asserting that true spirituality requires a heart that is solely devoted to God. He argues that a man after God's own heart must disregard the opinions of both friends and foes, demonstrating moral courage by standing firm in truth regardless of social status. Tozer encourages believers to seek only the approval of Christ, which leads to genuine freedom from the pressures of pleasing others. He concludes with a prayer for strength to overcome the desire for human validation and to find contentment in God's smile.
Counterfeit Conversion - Part Three
By Winkie Pratney0MAT 5:11LUK 14:25JHN 5:39JHN 12:432CO 6:17Winkie Pratney delivers a powerful sermon on the dangers of being a people-pleaser, focusing on those who prioritize the praise of men over the praise of God. These individuals, labeled as 'people-pleasers,' are driven by the desire for popularity and reputation rather than true faith in God. They conform to societal norms and seek the approval of others, neglecting genuine obedience to God's Word. Pratney challenges listeners to examine their motives and actions, urging them to prioritize God's standards over the opinions of men, as true faith requires unwavering commitment to God's authority.
The Duty of Helping Others to Seek the Saints' Rest
By Richard Baxter0GEN 18:19DEU 6:6JOS 24:152KI 7:9PRO 22:6LUK 12:48JHN 12:43ACT 10:34ACT 20:20ROM 10:141CO 1:262CO 5:17GAL 1:10EPH 6:41TH 5:132TI 2:15Richard Baxter preaches about the urgency and importance of helping others find the saints' everlasting rest, emphasizing the duty of Christians to actively work towards the salvation of souls. He highlights the need for compassion, instruction, and a genuine desire for the eternal happiness of others. Baxter stresses the significance of witnessing with sincerity, faithfulness, and a sense of urgency, backed by the authority of God's word. He also addresses the various hindrances that may prevent believers from fulfilling this duty, such as sin, lack of faith, lack of compassion, desire for popularity, and sinful bashfulness.
Caught in the Public Eye
By Charles Finney0True Commitment to GodHypocrisyMAT 23:33JHN 12:432CO 10:122TI 3:12JAS 2:10Charles Finney addresses the dangers of seeking the praise of men over the praise of God, emphasizing that true self-love aligns with God's law, while selfishness leads to hypocrisy. He warns that many professing Christians are motivated by a desire for reputation rather than a genuine commitment to glorifying God, often conforming to public sentiment instead of biblical standards. Finney challenges listeners to examine their hearts and motives, urging them to prioritize God's authority over societal approval. He calls for a radical commitment to Christ, encouraging believers to stand firm in their faith regardless of public opinion. Ultimately, he stresses that true Christianity requires a complete surrender to God's will, regardless of the cost.
Epistle 261
By George Fox0JER 10:3MAT 23:7JHN 5:44JHN 12:43ACT 10:341CO 15:33EPH 4:15PHP 2:10REV 13:4REV 22:8George Fox preaches against the customs and titles of the world, emphasizing that true manners come from avoiding evil words and following God's law, rather than outward gestures of respect. He highlights the importance of not seeking honor from one another, as it indicates unbelief and a love for worldly praise, contrasting this with the humility and reverence shown by prophets and apostles towards God. Fox stresses the need for Christians to have Christ as their spiritual head and master, serving and worshiping Him above all else, in contrast to those who worship worldly powers and seek vain glory.
They Wandered in the Wilderness in a Solitary Way
By A.B. Simpson0Approval of God vs. ManSolitude with GodPSA 118:8PRO 29:25ISA 41:10MAT 6:1JHN 12:43GAL 1:101TH 2:42TI 4:3HEB 13:5JAS 4:4A.B. Simpson emphasizes the necessity for those who fight the Lord's battles to forsake the desire for human approval and praise, warning that such motives can lead to spiritual weakness. He encourages believers to embrace the solitary path of walking closely with God, recognizing that true strength comes from divine approval rather than human sympathy. Simpson highlights the danger of confusing earthly affection with genuine brotherly love, urging Christians to find solace in God's understanding rather than in the fleeting opinions of others.
Religion of Public Opinion
By Charles Finney0HypocrisyObedience to GodPRO 29:25MAT 5:16MAT 6:1LUK 9:26JHN 12:43ROM 12:2GAL 1:10JAS 4:41PE 2:91JN 2:15Charles Finney addresses the dangers of valuing public opinion over God's approval, emphasizing that many professing Christians prioritize their reputation and social acceptance over true devotion to God. He distinguishes between self-love and selfishness, warning that when individuals act primarily to maintain their image, they become hypocrites. Finney urges listeners to examine their motives and actions, challenging them to pursue genuine obedience to God's commands regardless of societal pressures. He calls for a commitment to uphold God's standards, even when it conflicts with popular sentiment, and warns that those who conform to the world will face dire consequences.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
They loved the praise of men - Δοξαν, the glory or honor that cometh from men. How common are these four obstacles of faith! says Quesnel: 1. Too great a regard to men. 2. Riches and temporal advantages. 3. The fear of disgrace. 4. The love of the praise of men. Abundance of persons persuade themselves that they love God more than the world, till some trying occasion fully convinces them of their mistake. It is a very great misfortune for a person not to know himself but by his falls; but it is the greatest of all not to rise again after he has fallen. This is generally occasioned by the love of the praise of men, because in their account it is more shameful to rise again than it was to fall at first.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God--"a severe remark, considering that several at least of these persons afterwards boldly confessed Christ. It indicates the displeasure with which God regarded their conduct at this time, and with which He continues to regard similar conduct" [WEBSTER and WILKINSON].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Jesus cried and said,.... Upon this occasion, on account of the prevailing hardness and unbelief of the Jewish nation, and the non-confession of him by those who did believe him to be the Messiah. He cried with a loud voice, that he might be heard, and his audience left inexcusable; it denotes the concern of his mind, the vehemence of his spirit, and that openness and freedom in which he discharged his ministry, by showing the nature, excellency, and usefulness of believing in him, and the dangerous consequences of unbelief: he that believeth on me, believeth not on me; which is not to be understood simply and absolutely, for this would be a contradiction in terms: they that believe in Christ, do believe in him, and they do right to believe in him; Christ is the object of faith; he is proposed as such in the Gospel; and it is his Father's will, and his own advice, that his people should believe in him: but then those that truly believe in him, do not believe in him as a mere man, but as God, as the Son of God; and not as separate from, or to the exclusion of his Father: nor do they believe in him as a new, or another God, but as the one God with the Father, and the Spirit; for he and his Father are one: nor do they believe in him "only"; and so the Arabic version reads; but in God the Father also: nor does their faith rest in him, but it proceeds through him, as the Mediator unto God; see Pe1 1:21. Besides, he is here to be considered in his office capacity, as being sent of God; and he that believes on him as the sent of God, does not so much believe on him, as on the sender of him, as follows: but on him that sent me; just as whatever honour or dishonour are done to an ambassador, sent by an earthly king to a foreign court, are not so much done to the ambassador that is sent, as to the king that sends him; for what is done to him, is all one as if it was personally done to his prince: so he that despises Christ, despises him that sent him; and he that receives Christ, receives him that sent him; and he that believes on Christ, believes on him that sent him; see Luk 10:16.