John 12-14

John 12:9-11

Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of Him but also to see Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and putting their faith in Him.

Do people see in my life the powerful working of Jesus to such an extent that I am seen as a threat to the prince of darkness? It doesn't really say that Lazarus was going around preaching or doing anything to draw people to Jesus. He was just living his life. But everybody knew the only reason he had life, the very source of his life was Jesus. And seeing the life Jesus brought Lazarus was enough to compel others to put their faith in Him.

John 12:42-43

Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in Him. But because of the Pharisees they would not confess their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the praise from men more than the praise from God.

Then you have this bunch who "believe" in Jesus but keep completely silent and don't want there to be a hint of Jesus in their outward living. They probably know what is really right and true. But they can't quite bring themselves to the point where they value pleasing God over pleasing men and themselves.

How I want to be a Lazarus! For I was dead in my sins and brought back to a new life in Jesus. I want my life to be an example of Jesus' wonderful power to the extend that people are drawn to Him. But it's no easy struggle fighting against wanting approval from men. Nobody want to be put out or rejected by those around them. But praise from men is just for a fleeting moment. I must ever be seeking God approval.