John 11:21

Martha said to Jesus, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.

Study Bible

Martha said to Jesus
This phrase introduces us to Martha, a key figure in this narrative. Martha, the sister of Lazarus, is often depicted in the Gospels as a woman of action and practicality. Her approach to Jesus here is direct and personal, indicating a close relationship. The Greek name "Martha" is derived from the Aramaic "Marta," meaning "lady" or "mistress," suggesting her role as a leader in her household. Her interaction with Jesus reflects her faith and her understanding of His power, even in the face of her brother's death.

Lord
The term "Lord" (Greek: "Kyrios") is a title of respect and recognition of authority. In the New Testament, it is frequently used to address Jesus, acknowledging His divine authority and messianic role. Martha's use of "Lord" here is significant, as it demonstrates her belief in Jesus' power and her submission to His will, even amidst her grief.

if You had been here
This phrase reveals Martha's belief in Jesus' ability to heal and prevent death. It reflects a common human tendency to question and express regret over circumstances, yet it also shows her faith in Jesus' presence as a source of life and healing. The conditional "if" indicates her struggle with understanding why Jesus was not present to prevent her brother's death, a struggle that many believers can relate to when facing loss or unanswered prayers.

my brother would not have died
Martha's statement is a profound expression of faith in Jesus' power over life and death. It underscores her belief that Jesus could have healed Lazarus, affirming His miraculous abilities. This phrase also sets the stage for the subsequent revelation of Jesus as the "resurrection and the life" (John 11:25), highlighting the theme of Jesus' authority over death. Historically, this reflects the Jewish belief in the power of a prophet or holy man to intercede with God for healing, a belief that Martha applies to Jesus with confidence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Martha
The sister of Mary and Lazarus, known for her practical nature and hospitality. She expresses her faith in Jesus, even in her grief.

2. Jesus
The central figure of the New Testament, the Son of God, who demonstrates His power over life and death in this chapter.

3. Lazarus
The brother of Martha and Mary, whose death and subsequent resurrection by Jesus is a pivotal event in the Gospel of John.

4. Bethany
The village near Jerusalem where Martha, Mary, and Lazarus lived. It becomes the setting for this miraculous event.

5. The Resurrection of Lazarus
A significant miracle performed by Jesus, showcasing His divine authority and foreshadowing His own resurrection.

Teaching Points

Faith Amidst Grief
Martha's statement reflects a deep faith in Jesus, even in her sorrow. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's presence and power, even when circumstances seem dire.

The Sovereignty of God
This passage reminds us that God's timing and plans are perfect, even when they are not immediately apparent to us.

The Power of Jesus
Jesus' ability to raise Lazarus from the dead demonstrates His divine authority and foreshadows His own resurrection, offering hope to believers.

The Importance of Honest Prayer
Martha's honest expression of her feelings to Jesus encourages believers to bring their true emotions and concerns to God in prayer.

Hope in the Resurrection
The promise of resurrection and eternal life is central to Christian hope, providing comfort and assurance in the face of death.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Martha's statement in John 11:21 reflect her understanding of Jesus' power and authority? How can this understanding impact our faith today?

2. In what ways does the account of Lazarus' resurrection in John 11 encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan, even when we face difficult situations?

3. How can we apply the lesson of honest prayer, as demonstrated by Martha, in our own relationship with God?

4. How does the promise of resurrection and eternal life, as seen in John 11 and other scriptures, provide hope and comfort in times of loss?

5. How can we balance active service and contemplative devotion in our spiritual lives, as illustrated by the lives of Martha and Mary in the Gospels?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Luke 10:38-42
Provides additional context about Martha and Mary, highlighting Martha's active service and Mary's contemplative devotion.

Romans 8:28
Relates to the theme of God's sovereignty and the assurance that He works all things for the good of those who love Him, even in times of suffering.

Hebrews 11:1
Connects to the concept of faith, as Martha's statement reflects her belief in Jesus' power, despite her grief.