New Testament
John 12:17
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see a group of people who witnessed a miraculous event: Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
The crowd that had been with him when he called Lazarus out of his tomb and raised him from the dead continued to testify about it.
The people therefore that was with him when he called Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, bare record.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a group of people who witnessed a miraculous event: Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. These individuals were not just passive observers; they actively shared their experiences and testimonies about what they had seen. Their continued testimony highlights the impact of Jesus' miracles on those who witnessed them. It emphasizes the importance of sharing personal experiences of faith and the transformative power of Jesus. The act of testifying serves to strengthen the faith of others and spread the message of Jesus' divine authority. This verse illustrates how powerful testimonies can inspire belief and encourage others to seek a relationship with Christ. The crowd's actions remind us that witnessing God's work in our lives compels us to share those experiences with others, fostering a community of faith and encouragement.
Related Bible verses
How to apply John 12:17 to your life
We should share our personal experiences of faith and the ways God has worked in our lives. By doing so, we can encourage others and strengthen their belief. Testimonies can be powerful tools for spreading hope and inspiring faith in our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 12:17 mean?
John 12:17 describes a crowd of people who witnessed Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. They were not only witnesses but also actively shared their experiences, highlighting the significance of personal testimonies in spreading faith.
What is the significance of the crowd in John 12:17?
The crowd in John 12:17 represents those who experienced a miracle and felt compelled to share their testimony. Their actions emphasize the importance of witnessing and sharing personal experiences of faith to inspire others.
What does 'bare record' mean in John 12:17?
In John 12:17, 'bare record' means that the people openly testified or gave witness to what they had seen regarding Jesus' miracle of raising Lazarus. It indicates their active role in sharing their experiences.
How does John 12:17 relate to sharing faith?
John 12:17 illustrates the importance of sharing personal testimonies of faith. The crowd's willingness to testify about Jesus' miracle encourages others to share their experiences, fostering a community of belief and support.

The Book of John
John 1: The Word Made Flesh and the First Disciples
In the beginning is the Word, and the Word is with God, and the Word is God. All things are made by him, and in him is life, and the life is the light of men. The light shines in darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it. John the Baptist is sent from God to bear witness of the Light. He says he is not the Christ but comes to testify of him. The Word is made flesh and dwells among them, full of grace and truth. John bears witness and says that the one coming after him is preferred before him because he is before him.
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