John 7:11-13

John 7:11-13. Then the Jews sought him, &c.— Jesus did not appear publicly, immediatelyon his arrival in Jerusalem, which occasioned many doubtsconcerning his character: some affirmed, that he was a true prophet, and that his not attending the feast might be owing to several accidents. Others affirmed, that he was a deceiver, who paid no regard to the divine institution. Howbeit, his friends defended him only in private, not daring to speak openly on his behalf, for fear of the inhabitants of Jerusalem.