John 12:11

Because that by reason of him many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus.

Because {G3754} that by reason {G1223} of him {G846} many {G4183} of the Jews {G2453} went away {G5217}, and {G2532} believed {G4100} on {G1519} Jesus {G2424}.

since it was because of him that large numbers of the Judeans were leaving their leaders and putting their trust in Yeshua.

for on account of him many of the Jews were deserting them and believing in Jesus.

because that by reason of him many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus.

Commentary

John 12:11 KJV Commentary

Context

John 12:11 follows immediately after the monumental event of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead in Bethany (John 11:44). The miracle had occurred just days before the Passover, and news of it had spread rapidly. Many Jews, particularly those from Jerusalem and the surrounding areas, had come to Bethany not only to see Jesus but also to see Lazarus, the man who had been dead for four days. This verse describes the direct consequence of that undeniable display of divine power: a significant number of people were convinced of Jesus's claims and placed their faith in Him. This widespread belief, however, also intensified the opposition from the chief priests and Pharisees, who saw Jesus's growing popularity as a threat to their authority and position (John 11:48).

Key Themes

  • The Power of Divine Miracles: The resurrection of Lazarus was an unparalleled miracle, serving as a powerful sign that authenticated Jesus's claims to be the Son of God and the "Resurrection and the Life" (John 11:25). It compelled many to believe.
  • Belief in Jesus: The core message is the act of "believing on Jesus." This wasn't merely intellectual assent but a profound trust and commitment to Him as the Messiah and Savior.
  • Division and Response: Jesus's ministry consistently created a division among people. While some hardened their hearts, others, like those mentioned here, responded with faith, even at the risk of alienation from the religious establishment.
  • The Cost of Following Christ: The verse implicitly highlights the escalating tension. The very reason many believed (Lazarus's resurrection) was also the reason the religious leaders intensified their plot, not only against Jesus but also against Lazarus (John 12:10).

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "went away" (ἀπῆλθον - *apēlthon*) suggests a departure or separation. In this context, it implies that these Jews distanced themselves from the prevailing unbelief or the influence of the skeptical religious leaders, choosing instead to align themselves with Jesus. The Greek verb for "believed" (ἐπίστευσαν - *episteusan*) signifies a decisive act of putting faith and trust in Jesus, moving from skepticism or neutrality to conviction.

Related Scriptures

The catalyst for this widespread belief was the incredible resurrection of Lazarus from the dead. This verse highlights the profound impact of Jesus's miracles as signs pointing to His divine identity and calling people to faith. The response of faith, however, also intensified the hostility of the religious authorities, who were already plotting against Jesus and now sought to kill Lazarus as well, demonstrating the spiritual battle at play.

Practical Application

John 12:11 reminds us that God's powerful acts can draw people to faith. Just as Lazarus's restored life became a testimony, our own transformed lives, touched by Christ, can be powerful witnesses to others. This verse also teaches us that choosing to believe in Jesus often means separating from popular opinion or even facing opposition. True faith involves a decisive turning towards Christ, regardless of the cost, and recognizing His authority and divine power in our lives.

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Cross-References

  • John 11:45

    ¶ Then many of the Jews which came to Mary, and had seen the things which Jesus did, believed on him.

  • John 12:18

    For this cause the people also met him, for that they heard that he had done this miracle.

  • James 3:14

    But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.

  • James 3:16

    For where envying and strife [is], there [is] confusion and every evil work.

  • Acts 13:45

    But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming.

  • John 7:31

    And many of the people believed on him, and said, When Christ cometh, will he do more miracles than these which this [man] hath done?

  • John 15:18

    If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before [it hated] you.
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