John 11:17

When Jesus arrived, He found that Lazarus had already spent four days in the tomb.

Study Bible

When Jesus arrived
This phrase marks a significant moment in the narrative, emphasizing the timing of Jesus' arrival. The Greek word for "arrived" is "ἦλθεν" (ēlthen), which implies a purposeful coming. Jesus' arrival is not accidental but divinely orchestrated. In the broader context of the Gospel of John, Jesus' movements are always intentional, reflecting His obedience to the Father's will. This arrival, though seemingly late, sets the stage for a greater revelation of His power over life and death, underscoring the theme of divine timing.

He found
The Greek word "εὗρεν" (heuren) suggests a discovery or realization. Jesus, in His omniscience, already knew the situation, yet the narrative presents it as a discovery to emphasize His human experience and empathy. This duality of Jesus' nature—fully God and fully man—is a cornerstone of Christian theology. His finding Lazarus in the tomb highlights His intimate involvement in human suffering and His readiness to intervene.

that Lazarus had already spent
The phrase indicates the duration of Lazarus' death, emphasizing the finality and hopelessness of the situation from a human perspective. The Greek word "ἤδη" (ēdē) for "already" underscores the elapsed time, reinforcing the belief that after three days, the soul was believed to have departed, making resurrection impossible by Jewish custom. This sets the stage for a miracle that defies human understanding and cultural beliefs.

four days
The specific mention of "four days" is crucial. In Jewish tradition, it was believed that the soul hovered around the body for three days, hoping to return. By the fourth day, decomposition would have set in, and all hope of resuscitation was gone. This detail amplifies the miraculous nature of what Jesus is about to do, proving His authority over death and His identity as the Resurrection and the Life.

in the tomb
The tomb, a place of finality and mourning, symbolizes the ultimate separation caused by death. In the historical context, tombs were often caves sealed with stones, representing the barrier between the living and the dead. Jesus' forthcoming action will not only roll away the physical stone but also the spiritual stone of unbelief, demonstrating His power to bring life from death. This foreshadows His own resurrection, where He will conquer the grave once and for all.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
The central figure of the New Testament, the Son of God, who performs miracles and teaches about the Kingdom of God. In this passage, He arrives at Bethany after Lazarus has died.

2. Lazarus
A close friend of Jesus who has died and been in the tomb for four days. His resurrection is a significant miracle performed by Jesus.

3. Bethany
A village near Jerusalem where Lazarus, Mary, and Martha lived. It is the setting for this miraculous event.

4. The Tomb
The place where Lazarus was laid after his death. The fact that Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days emphasizes the finality of death and sets the stage for Jesus' miracle.

5. Martha and Mary
Sisters of Lazarus who are mourning his death. They play a significant role in the account, expressing faith and grief.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of Death and the Power of Christ
Lazarus being in the tomb for four days underscores the reality of death. Yet, it sets the stage for Jesus to demonstrate His authority over death, reminding us of His power in our seemingly hopeless situations.

Faith in the Midst of Grief
Martha and Mary's interactions with Jesus show a blend of faith and sorrow. We are encouraged to bring our grief to Jesus, trusting in His compassion and power.

The Timing of God
Jesus arrives after Lazarus has been dead for four days, which may seem late to human understanding. This teaches us that God's timing is perfect, even when it doesn't align with our expectations.

The Glory of God Revealed
The miracle of raising Lazarus is ultimately for the glory of God. Our lives, too, should reflect God's glory, especially in how we respond to trials.

Hope Beyond the Grave
Jesus' actions foreshadow His own resurrection and offer hope of eternal life to all believers. This hope should transform how we live and face death.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fact that Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days impact your understanding of the miracle Jesus performed?

2. In what ways can we see God's timing as perfect, even when it seems delayed from our perspective? Can you think of a personal experience where this was true?

3. How do Martha and Mary's responses to Jesus in their grief encourage you in your own times of sorrow?

4. What does Jesus' power over death in this passage teach us about His nature and His promises to believers?

5. How can the hope of resurrection and eternal life influence the way you live your daily life and face challenges? Can you find other scriptures that reinforce this hope?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 11:25-26
Jesus declares Himself as the resurrection and the life, emphasizing His power over death and His promise of eternal life to believers.

John 5:28-29
Jesus speaks about the resurrection of the dead, which foreshadows the miracle of raising Lazarus.

1 Corinthians 15:20-22
Paul discusses the resurrection of Christ as the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep, connecting to the theme of resurrection in John 11.

Psalm 23:4
The assurance of God's presence even in the valley of the shadow of death, which parallels the comfort Jesus brings to Mary and Martha.