John 7:18

KJV

He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.

KJV (with Strong's)

He that speaketh {G2980} of {G575} himself {G1438} seeketh {G2212} his own {G2398} glory {G1391}: but {G1161} he that seeketh {G2212} his glory {G1391} that sent {G3992} him {G846}, the same {G3778} is {G2076} true {G227}, and {G2532} no {G3756} unrighteousness {G93} is {G2076} in {G1722} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A person who speaks on his own is trying to win praise for himself; but a person who tries to win praise for the one who sent him is honest, there is nothing false about him.

Berean Standard Bible

He who speaks on his own authority seeks his own glory, but He who seeks the glory of the One who sent Him is a man of truth; in Him there is no falsehood.

American Standard Version

He that speaketh from himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh the glory of him that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 7:18 articulates a profound principle for discerning truth and authenticity, particularly in spiritual leadership and teaching. Jesus posits that a speaker's underlying motivation—whether seeking personal acclaim or the glory of the one who sent them—serves as the ultimate litmus test for their genuineness and integrity. This verse establishes that true messengers of God are characterized by their unwavering commitment to glorify God, resulting in a message devoid of deceit or unrighteousness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within Jesus' teaching at the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem, a period marked by intense public scrutiny and opposition from Jewish authorities. Following His unannounced arrival and subsequent teaching in the temple, the Jewish leaders marvel at His wisdom, questioning how He could teach without formal rabbinic training ([John 7:15](/john/7-15 "John 7:15 - Jews Marvel at Jesus' Teaching")). Jesus responds by asserting that His doctrine is not His own, but from God who sent Him ([John 7:16](/john/7-16 "John 7:16 - Jesus' Divine Authority")). He then offers a practical test for discerning divine truth: anyone willing to do God's will shall know whether the teaching is from God or merely human ([John 7:17](/john/7-17 "John 7:17 - The Test of Obedience")). John 7:18 directly extends this criterion, shifting the focus from the hearer's willingness to the speaker's motivation, thereby providing an internal measure of authenticity. It sets the stage for further discussions about Jesus' identity and authority throughout [John 7](/john/7 "John 7 - Jesus at the Feast of Tabernacles").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) was one of the three major pilgrimage festivals, drawing large crowds to Jerusalem. It commemorated Israel's wilderness wanderings and God's provision, making it a time of heightened religious fervor and expectation. In this setting, the authority of a teacher (rabbi) was paramount, typically derived from formal training under an established master. Jesus, lacking such credentials, challenged the conventional understanding of authority. Furthermore, the concept of "glory" (Hebrew: *kavod*, Greek: *doxa*) was deeply significant in Jewish thought, often referring to God's manifest presence and honor. To seek one's "own glory" was seen as an act of self-exaltation, contrasting sharply with the humility expected of a true servant of God, whose ultimate aim was to bring glory to the Almighty. The cultural emphasis on reputation and honor made Jesus' statement a powerful indictment of those who taught for personal gain or recognition.
* **Key Themes:** John 7:18 significantly contributes to several pervasive themes in the Gospel of John. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Authority vs. Self-Authority**, clearly distinguishing between those who speak from their own initiative and those who are genuinely sent by God. Jesus consistently exemplifies the latter, repeatedly emphasizing that He does nothing of His own accord but only what He sees the Father doing ([John 5:19](/john/5-19 "John 5:19 - The Son Does What the Father Does")) and always seeks to glorify the Father ([John 8:29](/john/8-29 "John 8:29 - Jesus Always Does the Father's Will"); [John 17:4](/john/17-4 "John 17:4 - Jesus Glorifies the Father")). Secondly, the verse highlights **Motivation as a Test of Truth**. It implies that the integrity of a message is directly tied to the integrity of the messenger's heart. A desire for personal honor or recognition corrupts the message, rendering it untrustworthy, whereas a genuine desire to glorify God ensures truthfulness and integrity. This theme is crucial for discerning true prophets from false ones. Lastly, it connects **Truth and Righteousness**, asserting that one who seeks God's glory "is true, and no unrighteousness is in him." This establishes an intrinsic link between divine purpose, moral uprightness, and the authentic proclamation of truth, a concept woven throughout John's Gospel, particularly in Jesus' claims about Himself as "the way, the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **seeketh (Greek, _zētéō'_):** From G2212, meaning "to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by Hebraism) to worship (God), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)." In this context, it denotes a purposeful pursuit or endeavor. When applied to "his own glory," it describes a deliberate striving for personal honor or recognition. When applied to "his glory that sent him," it signifies a dedicated effort to honor and exalt God.
* **glory (Greek, _dóxa'_):** From G1391, meaning "glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective):--dignity, glory(-ious), honour, praise, worship." This word encompasses reputation, honor, splendor, and praise. The contrast lies in the object of this pursuit: self-glory (human acclaim) versus divine glory (God's honor).
* **true (Greek, _alēthḗs'_):** From G227, meaning "true (as not concealing):--true, truly, truth." This term signifies authenticity, genuineness, and conformity to reality. It implies a state of being free from falsehood, deceit, or pretense. In the context of the verse, it directly links the motivation of seeking God's glory with the inherent truthfulness of the speaker and their message.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory:"** This clause identifies the first type of speaker: one whose message originates from their own initiative, wisdom, or agenda ("speaketh of himself"). The motivation behind such a speaker is explicitly stated as the pursuit of "his own glory," meaning personal honor, recognition, or benefit. This points to a self-centered ambition that undermines the authenticity and trustworthiness of their words.
* **"but he that seeketh his glory that sent him,"** This clause introduces a stark contrast ("but," G1161, _dé_). It describes the second type of speaker: one whose ultimate aim is to glorify the one who commissioned them. This implies a divine commission and a selfless devotion to the Sender's purpose and honor. The focus shifts entirely from personal gain to the exaltation of another, specifically God.
* **"the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him."** This final clause presents the profound consequence of seeking God's glory. The speaker whose motivation is divine glory "is true" (G227, _alēthḗs_), meaning they are authentic, reliable, and speak truth without distortion. Furthermore, "no unrighteousness (G93, _adikía_) is in him," signifying that such a person is morally upright, free from deceit, injustice, or any form of moral wrongness that would compromise their message. This establishes a direct correlation between pure motivation, truthfulness, and moral integrity.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message. **Contrast** is the most prominent, setting up a clear dichotomy between two types of speakers based on their motivations: those who seek "their own glory" versus those who seek "his glory that sent him." This stark opposition highlights the fundamental difference between self-serving ambition and divine commission. **Parallelism** is also evident in the balanced structure of the two clauses, mirroring the actions ("speaketh of himself" / "seeketh his glory") and their respective outcomes. The phrase "the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him" functions as a **Climax** or **Culmination**, presenting the ultimate positive outcome for the one who seeks God's glory, reinforcing their credibility and moral purity. This verse also implicitly uses **Ethos**, as Jesus is, in fact, laying out a criterion by which His own credibility can be judged, inviting His listeners to apply this test to Him.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 7:18 provides a foundational theological principle for understanding divine authority and the nature of true revelation. It asserts that genuine spiritual authority is not self-derived but flows from God, and its authenticity is validated by the messenger's singular desire to glorify the Sender. This principle underscores God's sovereignty as the ultimate source of truth and the necessity of humility and selfless devotion in those who represent Him. It challenges any teaching or leadership motivated by personal ambition, fame, or financial gain, identifying such endeavors as inherently untrustworthy and tainted by unrighteousness. Conversely, it affirms that a life and message wholly dedicated to God's glory will naturally embody truth and integrity, reflecting the very character of God.

* [1 Corinthians 10:31](/1_corinthians/10-31 "1 Corinthians 10:31 - Glorifying God in All Things")
* [Philippians 2:3-8](/philippians/2-3-8 "Philippians 2:3-8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")
* [Galatians 1:10](/galatians/1-10 "Galatians 1:10 - Seeking God's Approval, Not Man's")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John 7:18 offers a timeless and critical lens through which we can evaluate not only others but also ourselves. In a world saturated with voices and information, discerning truth requires more than just intellectual analysis; it demands an examination of the heart behind the message. For believers, this verse serves as a profound call to introspection: What is the true motivation behind our words, our actions, our service, and our ministries? Are we seeking personal praise, recognition, or success, or is our deepest desire to bring glory to God who has called and sent us? This principle encourages a radical humility, reminding us that true impact and authenticity stem from a selfless devotion to God's purposes, rather than our own. When our lives are genuinely oriented towards God's glory, our words will carry the ring of truth, and our character will reflect righteousness, becoming a trustworthy witness to His nature.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are the primary motivations behind my actions and words, especially in areas of spiritual service or leadership?**
* **How can I cultivate a heart that consistently seeks God's glory above my own?**
* **In what ways does seeking personal glory potentially compromise truth and integrity in my life or in the lives of others I observe?**
* **How does this verse challenge my discernment when evaluating messages or teachings from various sources today?**

### FAQ
**How can we apply Jesus' test of motivation to discern true teachers and leaders today?**

Answer: Jesus' principle in [John 7:18](/john/7-18 "John 7:18 - Motivation as a Test of Truth") provides a vital framework for discernment. To apply it, we must look beyond outward charisma or popularity and carefully examine the underlying motivations of those who teach or lead. A true teacher will consistently direct attention and praise not to themselves, but to God. Their message will align with God's revealed Word, and their life will exhibit humility, integrity, and a clear commitment to God's will. Conversely, those who primarily seek personal fame, financial gain, or power, or whose teachings elevate themselves rather than God, reveal a self-centered motivation that Jesus warns against. We should ask: Do their lives demonstrate "no unrighteousness," or are there inconsistencies between their words and actions? Jesus Himself taught that "you will recognize them by their fruits" ([Matthew 7:15-20](/matthew/7-15-20 "Matthew 7:15-20 - You Will Recognize Them By Their Fruits")), and the fruit of a true messenger is a life and message that glorifies God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 7:18 finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ Himself. He is the quintessential example of one who "seeketh his glory that sent him." Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus consistently disavowed any claim to personal glory or independent authority, stating, "I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge... for I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me" ([John 5:30](/john/5-30 "John 5:30 - Jesus Seeks the Father's Will")). His entire life was a seamless demonstration of perfect obedience and devotion to the Father, culminating in His prayer, "I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do" ([John 17:4](/john/17-4 "John 17:4 - Jesus Glorifies the Father")). Because Jesus perfectly sought the Father's glory, He is supremely "true," the very embodiment of truth ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")), and "no unrighteousness is in him." He was without sin ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Our High Priest")) and spoke only the words of God ([John 8:26](/john/8-26 "John 8:26 - Jesus Speaks What He Hears From the Father")). Thus, Jesus is the living proof of the principle He articulates: true authority and perfect truthfulness are inextricably linked to a singular, unwavering focus on glorifying God. His life and mission serve as the ultimate standard by which all other claims to truth and authority must be measured.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

John 5:41

I receive not honour from men.

1 Corinthians 10:31

Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

1 Corinthians 10:33

Even as I please all [men] in all [things], not seeking mine own profit, but the [profit] of many, that they may be saved.

John 13:31

¶ Therefore, when he was gone out, Jesus said, Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him.

John 13:32

If God be glorified in him, God shall also glorify him in himself, and shall straightway glorify him.

John 8:49

Jesus answered, I have not a devil; but I honour my Father, and ye do dishonour me.

John 8:50

And I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth.