John 12:43
For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 12
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
δόξαν
the praise
G1391
δόξαν
the praise
Strong's:
G1391
Word #:
4 of 12
glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
δόξαν
the praise
G1391
δόξαν
the praise
Strong's:
G1391
Word #:
10 of 12
glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)
Cross References
John 5:44How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?John 5:41I receive not honour from men.Luke 16:15And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.1 Thessalonians 2:6Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.2 Corinthians 10:18For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.Matthew 6:2Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.1 Corinthians 4:5Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.John 12:26If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.John 8:54Jesus answered, If I honour myself, my honour is nothing: it is my Father that honoureth me; of whom ye say, that he is your God:Luke 19:17And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities.
Historical Context
Honor and shame were central to first-century Mediterranean culture. Loss of social standing through excommunication threatened identity, livelihood, and community. This cultural context makes the courage of open disciples even more remarkable.
Questions for Reflection
- How does love for human praise corrupt genuine faith?
- What does this teach about the necessity of prioritizing God's approval?
- In what decisions are you tempted to value human praise above God's approval?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
John diagnoses the secret believers' problem: they 'loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.' This heart issue reveals misplaced affection—valuing human approval above divine approval. The comparison demonstrates that love for God's praise must exceed love for human praise. Their priority disorder results in disobedience. This validates Jesus' teaching about serving two masters (Matt 6:24). The verse diagnoses much of weak Christianity: knowing truth but fearing confession. True faith values God's 'well done' above human applause.