What does John 5:41 mean? [⇑ See verse text ⇑]

Jesus has just given three forms of evidence to support His controversial claims (John 5:18). These fulfill the requirements of Jewish courtroom law (Numbers 35:30; Deuteronomy 17:6). At the same time, truth is truth, whether anyone accepts it or not. Jesus is graciously speaking to people according to their natural human weaknesses (John 5:34). Unfortunately, many who heard His words refused to accept Him (John 5:38). This, more than any evidence, was the reason for their rejection: they simply refused to believe, no matter what (John 5:39–40).

Jesus' statement here is being made in that context. Certainly, Jesus accepted worship and praise from men (Matthew 14:33; Luke 24:52; John 9:38). Jesus' point here is that whether or not people accept Him is irrelevant—what He says is true. Jesus will point out later that there are certain ideas which only He can speak of, since He is the only one with that knowledge (John 8:14). This is meant to counter part of the Jewish religious leaders' attack on Jesus.

It's possible that these critics thought Jesus was angry because they would not approve His message. Jesus' point here is that He does not need their approval. He follows the will of the Father, whether these men accept Him or not. Since they had already made up their minds to reject Him (John 5:39–40), their endorsement will never come anyway.