Keraia
John 12

John 12:42

Belief and Unbelief · John 12:37–50
Read John 12

Translations

Modern
Nevertheless, many of the leaders believed in Him. But because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, for fear that they would be put out of the synagogue.
Traditional
Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue:
Literal
Nevertheless, indeed many of the rulers also believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they were not confessing, so that they might not be put out of the synagogue;
Latin
Verumtamen et ex principibus multi crediderunt in eum: sed propter pharisæos non confitebantur, ut e synagoga non ejicerentur.

Interlinear

Greek
English
Nevertheless, many of the leaders believed in Him. But because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, for fear that they would be put out of the synagogue.

Notes

John 12:42–43

Many people did believe in Jesus. However, they were afraid to admit it in public.

They feared the reaction of the religious leaders and the social consequences that might follow.

To follow Jesus means more than private belief. It includes openly identifying with him and telling others about him, even when this may bring rejection (1:35–51; 4:1–42).

John 12:1–50

  • In this part of John’s Gospel, two stories move forward at the same time.

    First, more and more people begin to praise Jesus. Their excitement reaches a high point when crowds welcome him into Jerusalem with shouts of joy (12:12–13).

    Second, the religious authorities become more determined to arrest Jesus and put him to death. As public support grows, their opposition grows as well.

  • John's Gospel describes three events that happened only days before Passover (12:1–11, 12–19, 20–36). Then he explains why most of the people refused to believe and describes the final public message spoken by Jesus (12:37–50).

Theme notes and profiles

Jewish Leaders The Pharisees The Messiah

People

Pharisee: A strict Jewish sect known for legalism and hypocrisy

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Curse, Cursed Darkness John, Gospel of Nicodemus Synagogue

Topics

Confessing Christ: The Fear of Man Prevents Confession of Christ Cowardice: Early Converts Among the Rulers Indecision: Rulers, Who Believed in Jesus Jesus, the Christ: Received Jesus, the Christ: Verifies the Prophecy of Isaiah Concerning the Unbelieving Jews Persecution of the Righteous Public Opinion: Feared by Rulers, Who Believed in Jesus, but Feared the Pharisees Synagogue: Primarily an Assembly of Jews and God-Fearers of Religious Courts Synagogues: Offenders Were often: Expelled From