many of the Jews
The term "Jews" in the Gospel of John often refers to the Jewish leaders and people of Judea. This group was significant because they were the primary audience of Jesus' ministry and the ones who would have been most familiar with the Messianic prophecies. The fact that many Jews were turning to Jesus indicates a significant shift in belief, challenging the religious authorities of the time.

were deserting them
The "them" refers to the Jewish religious leaders, such as the Pharisees and Sadducees, who were opposed to Jesus. The desertion signifies a departure from traditional Jewish teachings and authority, as people began to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. This desertion was a threat to the religious leaders' power and influence, contributing to their growing hostility towards Jesus.

and believing in Jesus
Belief in Jesus is a central theme in the Gospel of John, emphasizing faith as the means of salvation. This belief was not merely intellectual assent but a transformative trust in Jesus as the Messiah and Son of God. The act of believing in Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecies about the coming of the Messiah and established a new covenant relationship with God. This belief was a direct response to the signs and wonders Jesus performed, such as the raising of Lazarus, which validated His divine authority and mission.

“him” points to Lazarus, the man Jesus had just raised from the dead (John 11:43-44).

• His very life became a living sign. Crowds came “not only because of Jesus, but also to see Lazarus” (John 12:9).

• The miracle proved Jesus’ power over death, backing His claim, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25-26).

• Similar moments where signs stirred belief include Cana’s water-into-wine (John 2:11) and the feeding of the five thousand (John 6:14).

• Acts 4:14-16 shows the pattern continuing—undeniable evidence (a healed man) forcing people to face Jesus’ authority.

The phrase highlights a sizable portion of the Jewish populace, not merely a few isolated individuals.

• These “Jews” had likely traveled from Jerusalem to mourn Lazarus (John 11:19).

• After witnessing or hearing firsthand about the resurrection, they moved from curiosity to conviction—just as “many of the Jews who had come to Mary… believed in Him” (John 11:45).

• Later, at Pentecost, “about three thousand souls” from the same community would respond to the gospel (Acts 2:41). God often works in waves, drawing many at once.

“them” refers to the chief priests and Pharisees (John 11:47-48; 12:10).

• Deserting means shifting allegiance—walking away from leaders who opposed Christ.

• John 9:22 notes those leaders had threatened expulsion from the synagogue for anyone confessing Jesus; still, people left.

• This echoes Joshua-style decision moments: “choose this day whom you will serve” (Joshua 24:15).

• Their defection exposes the emptiness of religious authority when it stands against God’s revealed work (Acts 4:18-20).

The final, positive movement: active trust in the person of Christ.

• John’s Gospel repeatedly links belief to life—“whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

• Belief here is not a vague admiration; Martha had already voiced it clearly, “I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God” (John 11:27).

• John 20:31 states the Gospel’s purpose: “that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ… and that by believing you may have life in His name.”

• Transformation follows: later, “a large crowd… heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem” and hailed Him as King (John 12:12-13), evidence of growing faith.

John 12:11 shows the ripple effect of one undeniable miracle. Lazarus’ restored life led many Jews to abandon religious leaders hostile to Christ and to put their trust in Jesus Himself. The verse captures the gospel’s power: clear testimony, courageous turning from old allegiance, and wholehearted belief that brings eternal life.

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