New Testament
John 7:18
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"The one who speaks on his own seeks his own glory, but the one who seeks the glory of the one who sent him is true, and there is no unrighteousness in him."
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He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.
What John 7:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus contrasts two types of speakers. The first type speaks for themselves, motivated by personal ambition and the desire for recognition. This self-serving attitude leads to a pursuit of glory that is ultimately hollow. In contrast, the second type speaks on behalf of someone else, specifically God, and seeks to honor Him. This person is described as true, meaning they are genuine and trustworthy, and their actions are free from wrongdoing. The emphasis is on the importance of seeking glory for God rather than oneself, highlighting the integrity and righteousness of those who align their motives with divine purpose. This teaching encourages believers to reflect on their intentions and to prioritize God's glory over personal gain, fostering a spirit of humility and service.
How to apply John 7:18 to your life
In our daily lives, we should examine our motivations. Are we seeking recognition for ourselves, or are we striving to honor God in our actions? By focusing on God's glory, we cultivate humility and integrity, leading to a more fulfilling and righteous life.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: At the Feast of Tabernacles (John 7:10–52)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying John 7:18
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 7:18 teach about self-promotion?
John 7:18 warns against the dangers of self-promotion. It highlights that those who speak for their own glory are driven by personal ambition, which can lead to insincerity and a lack of true righteousness. Instead, it encourages believers to seek the glory of God, emphasizing that genuine speakers are motivated by a desire to honor Him, resulting in integrity and truthfulness.
How can I apply John 7:18 in my life?
To apply John 7:18, regularly reflect on your motivations behind your actions and words. Ask yourself if you are seeking personal recognition or if your aim is to honor God. By prioritizing God's glory in your decisions, you can foster humility and integrity, leading to a more meaningful and righteous life.
What is the significance of seeking God's glory?
Seeking God's glory, as mentioned in John 7:18, signifies aligning your actions with divine purpose. This pursuit fosters a spirit of humility and service, allowing you to live authentically and righteously. It also helps build a deeper relationship with God, as you focus on His will rather than your own ambitions.
How does John 7:18 relate to humility?
John 7:18 emphasizes humility by contrasting self-glory with the pursuit of God's glory. It teaches that true greatness comes from serving and honoring God rather than seeking personal recognition. This perspective encourages believers to adopt a humble attitude, recognizing that their worth is found in their relationship with God, not in worldly accolades.
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