John 12:42

New King James Version

Nevertheless even among the rulers many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue.

For Meditation

There is an ancient tool many leaders use to subdue their critics and silence opposition—favored appointments. It gags the vocal and reasonable, but failure to speak out for this reason could be devastating to communities. When it comes to confessing Jesus as Lord and savior, holding back for any reason, including intimidation, material gain from authorities, or family honor has fatal eternal consequences.

The apostle John talks about the rejection of Jesus despite the many signs he did before the people (Jn. 12:37). He cites the people’s rejection as a fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophesies (Isa. 53:1; 6:10). Because the people would not believe the redemption story, God gave them over to spiritual blindness and a hardening of their hearts to the Messiah (Jn. 12:38-41). Disturbing as that is, it is the comment that follows that saddens most.

Nevertheless, even among the rulers, many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God (42-43).

Whatever the bondage, unbelief has one primary cause—spiritual blindness.

The god of this age has blinded [them to] the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God (2 Cor 4:4).

Yet, many know the truth of the gospel but would not confess Jesus as Savior because they prefer human praise to eternity favor with God. But who are they kidding? Before whom shall all humanity stand in judgment? Who rewards with the things that last for eternity?

O, that they may repent and believe!

Sadly, many have confessed Christ as Lord, yet they cannot take a stand for Him for the same reasons—fear, position, tradition, and the praise of men. Peter fell into this trap in Antioch with the visiting circumcision team from Jerusalem. But thank God, Paul called him out. (Gal. 2:11-13).

God praised faithful Job for his righteousness (Job. 1:8). In heaven, He will welcome the faithful with praise.

Well done, good and faithful servant! (Matt. 25:21).

I do not know about you, but I will seek praise from God rather than the praise of men. For this world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever (1 Jn. 2:17).

Pray with Me

Father, you know how best to draw people onto yourself. Have mercy for the intimidated and bring them to faith in Christ Jesus. And help me boldly take a stand for Him and your honor everywhere and not buckle under any fear, in Jesus’ matchless name, amen.

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