John

Chapter 12:43

Seeking Man's Approval

"For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God."

John tells us that many of the chief rulers among the Jews believed on Jesus but would not confess Him publicly because they loved the praise of men rather than the praise of God. These rulers were also afraid they would be put out of the synagogue by those who opposed Jesus. What a sad commentary concerning the chief rulers. They were allowing their desire to be approved by men and their fear of these same men to keep them from the praise of God. It is sad when those who profess to believe have no conviction for Christ and His truth before others because they have no true love for Him in their hearts. It is interesting that even in modern times men have not changed. Why is it that men would rather seek the praise of other sinners than the praise of God? The reason taught in the Bible is that men have inherited a fallen nature. Human beings are totally depraved and naturally inclined to reject God and His truth. The Jewish rulers mentioned here in our passage today obviously had no true faith in Christ or genuine love for Him. A Holy Spirit regeneration results in a true faith and love for Christ. The Scripture states here that these men would not confess Christ. The Bible teaches that those who confess Jesus as Lord are those who are the saved. A faith that lacks confession is a pseudo-faith. It is obvious that the rulers John speaks of lacked the motivation to love Christ supremely. It is true that genuine believers can possess great fear in serving Christ and fall short in pleasing Him, but not to the point of a continual denial of Him. Peter experienced denying the Lord at a critical time in his life. Yet, we find that Peter did not continue in his denial. He wept bitterly because of his failure. We discover later in Peter's life that he was used greatly as an apostle and preached on the day of Pentecost and three thousand souls were saved. Our faith in Christ and love for Him will overcome our fear of men and over rule our desire to please men instead of God. May we always seek God's approval instead of the praise of men.

Have a grace day!

Pastor Tommy Haynes