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. vv.42-43
Read chapter 12
Secret believers. People who believe in who Jesus is, yet choose not to let others know. Here we are told specifically of rulers believing that Jesus was the Messiah. Those that believed then weren't just the ones that didn't understand or know the law enough and were just caught up in the signs, for we know even by Jesus' numerous miracles many did not believe (v.37). But many rulers believed in Him, well educated leaders believed. Yet the reason they were secret believers is fear of the Pharisees. These believing rulers knew that if they confessed Jesus Christ they would be kicked out of the synagog which in turn was being excommunicated from your whole life- no more friends or support system. Yet it was not only that fear of losing what held their life together but ultimately that they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God to why they remained secret believers. They look to the immediate praise now that they get from men, then the praise of God that is still to come. How true this is still today among believers. Are you one? If so, why?
How have you seen a ruler being a secret believer effect others? How have you seen a ruler who is outgoing in believing in Christ effect others?
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