John 12:43

King James Version:

(The Lord speaking is red text)

For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.

Complete Jewish Bible:

for they loved praise from other people more than praise from God.

Berean Standard Bible:

For they loved praise from men more than praise from God.

American Standard Version:

for they loved the glory that is of men more than the glory that is of God.

KJV with Strong’s Numbers:

For^{G1063} they loved^{G25} the praise^{G1391} of men^{G444} more^{G3123} than^{G2260} the praise^{G1391} of God^{G2316}.

Cross-References (KJV):

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Commentary for John 12:43

John 12:43, "For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God," is a verse that captures a critical moment in the Gospel of John, reflecting the broader theme of the conflict between the spiritual and the worldly. This verse is part of a passage that describes the reaction of some of the Jewish leaders to Jesus' miracles and teachings. Despite witnessing signs that should have led them to believe in Jesus as the Messiah, many of these leaders were more concerned with their reputation among their peers and maintaining their status within the Jewish community. Their fear of being put out of the synagogue—a significant social and religious penalty—outweighed their desire to follow the truth they had seen in Jesus.

Historically, this verse speaks to the human tendency to seek approval and acceptance from others, often at the expense of one's own convictions or the pursuit of divine approval. During the time of Jesus, the Jewish leaders faced immense social pressure to conform to established religious norms, and deviation could result in ostracism. The verse underscores the struggle between faith and societal expectations, highlighting the danger of valuing human accolades over divine commendation.

In a broader spiritual context, John 12:43 serves as a caution against the idolatry of public opinion and the temptation to compromise one's beliefs to gain the favor of others. It challenges readers to examine their motives and to prioritize God's glory over human glory, encouraging a life lived in authentic response to God's will rather than one shaped by the shifting sands of popular opinion. This theme is timeless, as it continues to resonate with contemporary readers who navigate complex social landscapes while striving to remain faithful to their religious convictions.

*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model

Strong's Numbers and Definitions:

Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)

1. Strong's Number: G1063
   There are 1016 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: γάρ
   Transliteration: gár
   Pronunciation: gar
   Description: a primary particle; properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles):--and, as, because (that), but, even, for, indeed, no doubt, seeing, then, therefore, verily, what, why, yet.
   
2. Strong's Number: G25
   There are 5851 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: ἀγαπάω
   Transliteration: agapáō
   Pronunciation: ag-ap-ah'-o
   Description: perhaps from (much) (or compare עֲגַב); to love (in a social or moral sense):--(be-)love(-ed). Compare φιλέω.
   
3. Strong's Number: G1391
   There are 151 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: δόξα
   Transliteration: dóxa
   Pronunciation: dox'-ah
   Description: from the base of δοκέω; glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective):--dignity, glory(-ious), honour, praise, worship.
   
4. Strong's Number: G444
   There are 614 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: ἄνθρωπος
   Transliteration: ánthrōpos
   Pronunciation: anth'-ro-pos
   Description: from ἀνήρ and (the countenance; from ὀπτάνομαι); man-faced, i.e. a human being:--certain, man.
   
5. Strong's Number: G3123
   There are 81 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: μᾶλλον
   Transliteration: mâllon
   Pronunciation: mal'-lon
   Description: neuter of the comparative of the same as μάλιστα; (adverbially) more (in a greater degree)) or rather:--+ better, X far, (the) more (and more), (so) much (the more), rather.
   
6. Strong's Number: G2260
   There are 1 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: ἤπερ
   Transliteration: ḗper
   Pronunciation: ay'-per
   Description: from ἤ and περ; than at all (or than perhaps, than indeed):--than.
   
7. Strong's Number: G2316
   There are 1172 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: θεός
   Transliteration: theós
   Pronunciation: theh'-os
   Description: of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with ὁ) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).