◄ John 11 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Death of Lazarus 1At this time a man named Lazarus was sick. He lived in Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. 2(Mary, whose brother Lazarus was sick, was to anoint the Lord with perfume and wipe His feeta with her hair.) 3So the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Lord, the one You love is sick.” 4When Jesus heard this, He said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” 5Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. 6So on hearing that Lazarus was sick, He stayed where He was for two days, 7and then He said to the disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.” 8“Rabbi,” they replied, “the Jews just tried to stone You, and You are going back there?” 9Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight? If anyone walks in the daytime, he will not stumble, because he sees by the light of this world. 10But if anyone walks at night, he will stumble, because he has no light.” 11After He had said this, He told them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I am going there to wake him up.” 12His disciples replied, “Lord, if he is sleeping, he will get better.” 13They thought that Jesus was talking about actual sleep, but He was speaking about the death of Lazarus. 14So Jesus told them plainly, “Lazarus is dead, 15and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.” 16Then Thomas called Didymusb said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go, so that we may die with Him.” Jesus Comforts Martha and Mary 17When Jesus arrived, He found that Lazarus had already spent four days in the tomb. 18Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, a little less than two milesc away, 19and many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to console them in the loss of their brother. 20So when Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet Him, but Mary stayed at home. 21Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. 22But even now I know that God will give You whatever You ask of Him.” 23“Your brother will rise again,” Jesus told her. 24Martha replied, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” 25Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies. 26And everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?” 27“Yes, Lord,” she answered, “I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.” 28After Martha had said this, she went back and called her sister Mary aside to tell her, “The Teacher is here and is asking for you.” 29And when Mary heard this, she got up quickly and went to Him. 30Now Jesus had not yet entered the village, but was still at the place where Martha had met Him. 31When the Jews who were in the house consoling Mary saw how quickly she got up and went out, they followed her, supposing she was going to the tomb to mourn there. 32When Mary came to Jesus and saw Him, she fell at His feet and said, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come with her also weeping, He was deeply moved in spiritd and troubled. 34“Where have you put him?” He asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they answered. 35Jesus wept. 36Then the Jews said, “See how He loved him!” 37But some of them asked, “Could not this man who opened the eyes of the blind also have kept Lazarus from dying?” Jesus Raises Lazarus (Acts 9:36–43) 38Jesus, once again deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. 39“Take away the stone,” Jesus said. “Lord, by now he stinks,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man. “It has already been four days.” 40Jesus replied, “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?” 41So they took away the stone. Then Jesus lifted His eyes upward and said, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me. 42I knew that You always hear Me, but I say this for the benefit of the people standing here, so they may believe that You sent Me.” 43After Jesus had said this, He called out in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” 44The man who had been dead came out with his hands and feet bound in strips of linen, and his face wrapped in a cloth.e “Unwrap him and let him go,” Jesus told them. The Plot to Kill Jesus (Matthew 26:1–5; Mark 14:1–2; Luke 22:1–2) 45Therefore many of the Jews who had come to Mary, and had seen what Jesus did, believed in Him. 46But some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. 47Then the chief priests and Pharisees convened the Sanhedrinf and said, “What are we to do? This man is performing many signs. 48If we let Him go on like this, everyone will believe in Him, and then the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation.” 49But one of them, named Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all! 50You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than that the whole nation perish.” 51Caiaphas did not say this on his own. Instead, as high priest that year, he was prophesying that Jesus would die for the nation, 52and not only for the nation, but also for the scattered children of God, to gather them together into one. 53So from that day on they plotted to kill Him. 54As a result, Jesus no longer went about publicly among the Jews, but He withdrew to a town called Ephraim in an area near the wilderness. And He stayed there with the disciples. 55Now the Jewish Passover was near, and many people went up from the country to Jerusalem to purify themselves before the Passover. 56They kept looking for Jesus and asking one another as they stood in the temple courts,g “What do you think? Will He come to the feast at all?” 57But the chief priests and Pharisees had given orders that anyone who knew where He was must report it, so that they could arrest Him. Footnotes: 2 a Literally was the one having anointed the Lord with fragrant oil and having wiped His feet; see John 12:3. 16 b Didymus means the twin. 18 c Greek about fifteen stadia; that is, approximately 1.72 miles or 2.78 kilometers 33 d Or He was indignant in spirit; similarly in verse 38 44 e Greek soudariō 47 f Or the Council 56 g Literally the temple Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub John 11 Summary Jesus Raises Lazarus Verses 1–6 – A Sickness with Purpose The sisters in Bethany send word that their brother Lazarus is gravely ill. Jesus, still across the Jordan, declares, “This sickness will not end in death, but is for the glory of God.” He purposely delays two days, showing that divine timing often outruns human urgency. Verses 7–16 – A Journey Back to Danger When Jesus announces He will return to Judea, the disciples remind Him of the recent threats on His life. He answers with the picture of twelve daylight hours and presses on. Thomas, often called the doubter, shows raw courage: “Let us also go, that we may die with Him.” Verses 17–27 – Martha Meets the Life-Giver Arriving in Bethany, Jesus learns Lazarus has been in the tomb four days—past any hope of natural recovery. Martha meets Him with mingled faith and grief. Jesus declares, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies” (11:25). Martha affirms, “I believe that You are the Christ.” Verses 28–37 – Shared Tears Mary comes, falls at Jesus’ feet, and repeats her sister’s lament. Surrounded by weeping friends, Jesus is “deeply moved in spirit” and weeps—the shortest and one of the most powerful verses in Scripture (11:35). Bystanders marvel at His love; some criticize His apparent delay. Verses 38–44 – The Tomb Opens Standing before the cave-tomb, Jesus orders the stone removed. Martha protests the odor of four-day decay, but Jesus calls her back to faith. He prays aloud, then cries, “Lazarus, come out!” The dead man walks forth, still bound in grave cloths. Jesus commands, “Unbind him and let him go.” Verses 45–57 – Growing Opposition Many witnesses believe. Others report to Jerusalem, where the chief priests and Pharisees convene. Caiaphas prophesies that one man should die for the nation. From that day on they plan to kill Jesus, while He withdraws to Ephraim until the Passover draws near. John 11 provides a profound narrative surrounding the death and resurrection of Lazarus, a close friend of Jesus. This chapter showcases Jesus' mastery over life and death, revealing His divine nature. It provides insight into human suffering, divine timing, faith, doubt, and the transformative power of miracles. Historical and Cultural Setting • Bethany lay two miles east of Jerusalem, an easy Sabbath walk (cf. 11:18). Its name means “house of affliction,” fitting the family’s ordeal. • Jewish burials wrapped the body with linen and spices, then sealed it in a rock-hewn tomb. Four days mattered: rabbis taught the spirit hovered near the corpse for three days but departed on the fourth, sealing the verdict of death. • Public mourning included loud wailing, flute-playing, and friends sitting shiva (seven days of grief). The scene explains the crowd gathered around Mary and Martha. Archaeological Notes • First-century tombs around Jerusalem match John’s description: a low entrance, a groove for a rolling stone, and recesses for bodies. • Excavations on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives reveal villages the size of Bethany with oil presses and water cisterns, showing why the area was a frequent rest stop for travelers and pilgrims. • Ossuaries (bone boxes) from this era attest to the Jewish custom of secondary burial—a year after initial interment. Lazarus was raised before such practice began, underscoring the miracle’s immediacy. Characters in Focus • Lazarus: His name means “God has helped.” Ironically, he helps Jesus by becoming living proof of His authority over death. • Martha: Practical, outspoken, yet profoundly trusting. Her confession (11:27) rivals Peter’s in Matthew 16:16. • Mary: Quietly devoted, later anoints Jesus with perfume (12:3). Her posture at His feet echoes Luke 10:39. • Thomas: Often remembered for doubt, yet here he models loyalty. • Caiaphas: High priest from AD 18-36; Josephus confirms his role. His statement (11:50) unwittingly voices God’s redemptive plan. Key Truths and Themes 1. Jesus rules over life and death. The resurrection is not merely future; it stands in a Person (11:25-26). 2. Delay does not equal indifference. God’s timing magnifies His glory (cf. Isaiah 55:8-9). 3. Genuine faith lives amid grief. Martha and Mary voice honest sorrow yet cling to hope. 4. Jesus shares human emotion. “He wept” shows full identification with our pain (Hebrews 4:15). 5. Miracles divide. The same sign softens some hearts and hardens others (cf. Exodus 7:13). Scripture Connections • Old Testament hints of resurrection: 1 Kings 17:22; 2 Kings 4:35; Isaiah 26:19; Daniel 12:2. • Jesus’ earlier resurrections: Jairus’s daughter (Mark 5:41-42) and the widow’s son at Nain (Luke 7:14-15). Lazarus’s case is unique—four days dead, near Jerusalem, many witnesses. • “I am” sayings: Compare “I am the bread of life” (John 6:35), “light of the world” (8:12), “good shepherd” (10:14), all pointing to His divine identity revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:14. • Plot to kill: Psalm 2:2-3 foreshadows rulers banding together against the Lord’s Anointed. • Caiaphas’s prophecy connects to Isaiah 53:5—one man suffering for many. Geography and Travel Notes • Jesus likely crossed the Jordan at Bethany-beyond-the-Jordan (1:28) or near it, a day’s journey from Bethany near Jerusalem. • Ephraim (11:54) sits in the rugged hill country north of Jerusalem, providing a quiet retreat. • The Passover route drew crowds from Galilee through Jericho and up the Ascent of Adummim, passing close to Bethany, explaining the influx of visitors. The Miracle in Context • John structures his Gospel around seven major signs; Lazarus’s resurrection is the seventh and climactic sign before the cross. • It foreshadows Jesus’ own resurrection yet differs: Lazarus returns to mortal life and later dies again; Jesus rises never to die, the “firstfruits” (1 Corinthians 15:20). Practical Takeaways • When God seems late, keep trusting; He may be aiming for something larger than immediate relief. • Tears are not a lack of faith. Jesus wept aloud even as He prepared to raise Lazarus. • Faith grows by seeing who Jesus is, not by having all questions answered. • Courage sometimes looks ordinary—Thomas simply walking back into danger. • New life demands unbinding. Jesus raises Lazarus; the community unwraps him, a picture of believers helping one another shed remnants of the old life. Simple Word Insights • “Deeply moved” (embrimáomai) carries a sense of outrage, as though Jesus snorts with anger at death’s intrusion. • “Come out” (deuro exō) is forceful yet personal; Jesus calls Lazarus by name so only one dead man responds. Foreshadowing the Cross • The miracle accelerates opposition, setting the stage for Good Friday. The raising of one man leads to the death of Another, which in turn opens eternal life for all who believe. • Caiaphas means the plot for evil; God weaves it for redemption (Genesis 50:20). Conclusion John 11 showcases Jesus as compassionate friend, unflinching Savior, and conquering Lord—standing before an open grave so that every believer might face death with hope and hear, one day, the same liberating command: “Come out!” Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 8:28 And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. Psalm 34:18 The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit. 1 Thessalonians 4:14 For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, we also believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him. Hebrews 4:15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin. Teaching Points Jesus' Divine Timing Jesus hears of Lazarus' illness but chooses to stay two more days where He is (John 11:6). This delay is intentional, demonstrating that God's timing is perfect and purposeful. The Purpose of Suffering Jesus states, This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it (John 11:4). Suffering can serve a greater purpose in God's plan. Jesus' Compassion Despite knowing He would raise Lazarus, Jesus weeps with those who mourn (John 11:35). This shows His empathy and shared sorrow with humanity. Faith and Belief Jesus challenges Martha's faith, saying, I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies (John 11:25). Belief in Jesus transcends physical death. The Power of Jesus' Word Jesus calls Lazarus from the tomb with a command, Lazarus, come out! (John 11:43). His word has authority over life and death. Practical Applications Trust in God's Timing When facing delays in answered prayers, trust that God's timing is perfect and His plans are for our good. Seek God's Glory in Trials In times of suffering, look for ways that God might be glorified through your circumstances. Embrace Jesus' Compassion Remember that Jesus shares in our sorrows and is present with us in our pain. Strengthen Your Faith Regularly affirm your belief in Jesus as the resurrection and the life, especially in moments of doubt or fear. Speak Life with Authority Use the power of God's Word in your life to speak hope and life into seemingly dead situations. People 1. Jesus Central figure in the chapter, Jesus is the Son of God who performs the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead. His actions and words demonstrate His divine authority and compassion. In Greek, His name is Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous). 2. Lazarus The brother of Mary and Martha, Lazarus is the man whom Jesus raises from the dead. His name in Greek is Λάζαρος (Lazaros), which is derived from the Hebrew name Eleazar, meaning "God has helped." 3. Mary Sister of Lazarus and Martha, Mary is known for her devotion to Jesus. She is the one who later anoints Jesus' feet with perfume. Her name in Greek is Μαρία (Maria). 4. Martha The other sister of Lazarus, Martha is known for her active service and faith in Jesus. She engages in a significant theological conversation with Jesus about the resurrection. Her name in Greek is Μάρθα (Martha). 5. The Disciples The group of Jesus' followers who accompany Him. They express concern about returning to Judea due to the threat of stoning. The term "disciples" in Greek is μαθηταί (mathētai). 6. Thomas (also called Didymus) One of Jesus' disciples, Thomas is noted for his statement of loyalty, expressing willingness to die with Jesus. His name in Greek is Θωμᾶς (Thōmas), and Didymus means "twin." 7. The Jews This term refers to the people from Jerusalem who come to comfort Mary and Martha. They witness the miracle and have varied reactions, some believing in Jesus and others reporting to the Pharisees. In Greek, the term is Ἰουδαῖοι (Ioudaioi). 8. The Pharisees A religious group concerned with Jesus' growing influence. They convene a council to discuss the implications of His miracles. The term in Greek is Φαρισαῖοι (Pharisaioi). 9. Caiaphas The high priest that year, Caiaphas suggests that it is better for one man to die for the people than for the whole nation to perish. His name in Greek is Καϊάφας (Kaiaphas). Places 1. Bethany Bethany is the village where Lazarus, Mary, and Martha lived. It is located near Jerusalem. In John 11:1, it is described as "the village of Mary and her sister Martha." The Greek name Βηθανία (Bethania) suggests a place of figs or dates, indicating a fertile area. 2. Judea Judea is the region where Bethany is located. In John 11:7, Jesus says to His disciples, "Let us go back to Judea." This indicates the broader geographical area encompassing Bethany and Jerusalem. The Greek term Ἰουδαία (Ioudaia) refers to the land of the Jews. 3. Jerusalem Although not directly mentioned in the specific verses of John 11, Jerusalem is implied as being nearby Bethany. In John 11:18, it is noted that "Bethany was near Jerusalem, about two miles away." The Greek term Ἱεροσόλυμα (Hierosolyma) is used for Jerusalem, the central city of Jewish worship and culture. Events 1. The Illness of Lazarus "Now a man named Lazarus was sick. He was from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha." (John 11:1) Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha, falls ill in Bethany. 2. Jesus is Informed "So the sisters sent word to Jesus, 'Lord, the one You love is sick.'" (John 11:3) Mary and Martha send a message to Jesus about Lazarus's illness. 3. Jesus Responds to the News "When Jesus heard this, He said, 'This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.'" (John 11:4) Jesus indicates that Lazarus's sickness has a divine purpose. 4. Jesus Delays His Visit "Yet when He heard that Lazarus was sick, He stayed where He was for two more days." (John 11:6) Jesus intentionally delays His visit to Bethany. 5. Jesus Decides to Go to Judea "Then He said to His disciples, 'Let us go back to Judea.'" (John 11:7) After two days, Jesus decides to return to Judea. 6. Disciples Express Concern "But Rabbi, they replied, 'a short while ago the Jews tried to stone You, and You are going back there?'" (John 11:8) The disciples express concern for Jesus's safety. 7. Jesus Explains His Intentions "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up." (John 11:11) Jesus uses the metaphor of sleep to describe Lazarus's death. 8. Jesus Clarifies Lazarus's Death "So then He told them plainly, 'Lazarus is dead.'" (John 11:14) Jesus clarifies that Lazarus has died. 9. Thomas's Commitment "Then Thomas (also known as Didymus) said to the rest of the disciples, 'Let us also go, that we may die with Him.'" (John 11:16) Thomas expresses his willingness to follow Jesus, even unto death. 10. Arrival in Bethany "On His arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days." (John 11:17) Jesus arrives in Bethany to find Lazarus entombed. 11. Martha Meets Jesus "When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet Him, but Mary stayed at home." (John 11:20) Martha goes to meet Jesus while Mary stays behind. 12. Martha's Faith "But even now I know that God will give You whatever You ask of Him." (John 11:22) Martha expresses her faith in Jesus's power. 13. Jesus Declares Himself the Resurrection "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me will live, even though he dies.'" (John 11:25) Jesus reveals His identity as the source of resurrection and life. 14. Mary Meets Jesus "When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw Him, she fell at His feet and said, 'Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.'" (John 11:32) Mary expresses her grief and faith in Jesus. 15. Jesus Weeps "Jesus wept." (John 11:35) Jesus shows His compassion and empathy for the mourners. 16. Jesus Approaches the Tomb "Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance." (John 11:38) Jesus approaches Lazarus's tomb, deeply moved. 17. The Stone is Removed "Take away the stone, He said." (John 11:39) Jesus instructs the removal of the stone from the tomb. 18. Jesus Prays "Father, I thank You that You have heard Me." (John 11:41) Jesus prays to the Father, expressing gratitude. 19. Lazarus is Raised "When He had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, 'Lazarus, come out!'" (John 11:43) Jesus commands Lazarus to come out of the tomb. 20. Lazarus Emerges "The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face." (John 11:44) Lazarus emerges from the tomb, alive. 21. Many Believe "Therefore many of the Jews who had come to visit Mary, and had seen what Jesus did, believed in Him." (John 11:45) Witnesses of the miracle come to believe in Jesus. 22. The Plot to Kill Jesus "So from that day on they plotted to take His life." (John 11:53) The Pharisees and chief priests plot to kill Jesus in response to His growing influence. Lessons from John 11 1. Jesus' Timing is Perfect In John 11, we learn that Jesus' timing is impeccable, even when it seems delayed to us. When Jesus heard that Lazarus was sick, He stayed where He was for two more days. This might seem puzzling, but it was all part of a greater plan. As Jesus said, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it" (John 11:4). Trust that His timing is always perfect, even when it doesn't align with our own schedules. 2. Faith Overcomes Fear When Jesus decided to return to Judea, His disciples were concerned about the danger. Yet, Jesus encouraged them to walk in the light of faith, saying, "Are there not twelve hours of daylight? If anyone walks in the daytime, he will not stumble, because he sees by the light of this world" (John 11:9). This teaches us that faith in Jesus dispels fear and guides us safely through life's challenges. 3. Jesus Understands Our Grief Jesus' compassion is evident when He sees Mary and the others weeping for Lazarus. "Jesus wept" (John 11:35), showing that He deeply understands and shares in our sorrows. This brief but powerful verse reminds us that we have a Savior who empathizes with our pain and walks with us through our darkest moments. 4. The Power of Belief Martha's conversation with Jesus highlights the transformative power of belief. Jesus assures her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies" (John 11:25). This promise is a cornerstone of our faith, emphasizing that belief in Jesus brings eternal life and hope beyond the grave. 5. Jesus' Authority Over Death The resurrection of Lazarus is a profound demonstration of Jesus' authority over death. When Jesus commands, "Lazarus, come out!" (John 11:43), it is a powerful reminder that He holds the keys to life and death. This miracle foreshadows His own resurrection and assures us of His ultimate victory over death. 6. God's Glory Revealed Through Trials The story of Lazarus teaches us that our trials can serve a greater purpose. Jesus explains, "It is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it" (John 11:4). Our struggles can be opportunities for God's glory to shine through, strengthening our faith and witnessing to others. 7. The Importance of Community When Lazarus emerges from the tomb, Jesus instructs those around him to "Unbind him and let him go" (John 11:44). This act underscores the importance of community in our spiritual journey. We are called to support and uplift one another, helping to remove the bindings that hold us back. 8. Jesus' Mission is Unstoppable Despite the growing opposition, Jesus remains focused on His mission. The plot to kill Him intensifies, yet His resolve is unwavering. This teaches us that God's plans cannot be thwarted by human schemes. As we align ourselves with His purpose, we can trust in His unstoppable mission. 9. The Role of Witnessing Many who witnessed the miracle of Lazarus believed in Jesus, while others reported it to the Pharisees. This illustrates the impact of witnessing God's work. Our testimonies can lead others to faith, as "many of the Jews who had come to Mary, and had seen what Jesus did, believed in Him" (John 11:45). 10. The Assurance of Jesus' Love Throughout John 11, we see the depth of Jesus' love for Lazarus, Mary, and Martha. His actions and words reassure us of His unwavering love for each of us. As we navigate life's challenges, we can rest in the assurance that we are deeply loved by our Savior, who is always working for our good. Topics 1. The Death of Lazarus (John 11:1-16) This section introduces Lazarus, who is ill, and his sisters Mary and Martha. Jesus receives news of Lazarus's sickness but delays His visit. The passage highlights Jesus' purpose, stating, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it" (John 11:4). The Greek word for "glory" (δόξα, doxa) emphasizes the divine honor and revelation of Jesus' identity. 2. Jesus Comforts the Sisters (John 11:17-37) Upon arriving in Bethany, Jesus encounters Martha and later Mary. Martha expresses her faith in Jesus, saying, "But even now I know that God will give You whatever You ask of Him" (John 11:22). Jesus declares, "I am the resurrection and the life" (John 11:25), using the Greek "ἐγώ εἰμι" (ego eimi), affirming His divine nature and power over life and death. 3. Jesus Weeps (John 11:33-37) Jesus is deeply moved by the sorrow of Mary and the mourners. The shortest verse in the Bible, "Jesus wept" (John 11:35), shows His compassion and humanity. The Greek verb "ἐδάκρυσεν" (edakrysen) indicates a profound emotional response, highlighting His empathy. 4. The Raising of Lazarus (John 11:38-44) Jesus performs the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead, demonstrating His authority over death. He commands, "Lazarus, come out!" (John 11:43), and Lazarus emerges from the tomb. The miracle serves as a sign of Jesus' divine power and foreshadows His own resurrection. 5. The Plot to Kill Jesus (John 11:45-57) The miracle leads many to believe in Jesus, but it also prompts the Pharisees and chief priests to plot His death. Caiaphas, the high priest, prophesies, "It is better for you that one man die for the people than that the whole nation perish" (John 11:50). This statement, though politically motivated, aligns with the divine plan for Jesus' sacrificial death. The Greek term "συμφέρει" (sympherei) implies expediency, underscoring the tension between human intentions and divine purposes. Themes 1. The Sovereignty of Jesus Over Life and Death In John 11:25, Jesus declares, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies." This statement underscores Jesus' authority over life and death, emphasizing His divine nature and power. The Greek word for "resurrection" (ἀνάστασις, anastasis) highlights the concept of rising again, which is central to Christian belief in eternal life through Christ. 2. Faith and Belief in Jesus The theme of faith is prominent, as seen in John 11:40, where Jesus says, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" The Greek word for "believed" (πιστεύω, pisteuō) is crucial, indicating trust and confidence in Jesus' divine power and promises. 3. The Humanity and Compassion of Jesus John 11:35, "Jesus wept," is the shortest verse in the Bible but profoundly illustrates Jesus' empathy and compassion. The Greek verb used here (δακρύω, dakryō) conveys a deep, personal sorrow, showing that Jesus fully shares in human emotions. 4. The Glory of God Revealed Through Miracles In John 11:4, Jesus states, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it." The miracle of raising Lazarus is intended to reveal God's glory and affirm Jesus' divine identity, as the Greek word for "glory" (δόξα, doxa) signifies honor and divine majesty. 5. The Power of Jesus' Word Jesus' command in John 11:43, "Lazarus, come out!" demonstrates the power of His word. The Greek imperative (δεῦρο, deuro) is a direct command, illustrating that Jesus' spoken word has authority over life and death. 6. The Role of Jesus as the Messiah Martha's confession in John 11:27, "Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world," highlights the recognition of Jesus as the promised Messiah. The term "Christ" (Χριστός, Christos) is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew "Messiah," meaning "Anointed One." 7. The Intersection of Divine Timing and Human Understanding In John 11:6, Jesus delays His visit to Lazarus, which confounds human expectations but aligns with divine timing. This theme emphasizes that God's timing often transcends human understanding, as seen in the Greek word for "remained" (ἔμεινεν, emeinen), indicating a purposeful delay. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Perfect Timing Pray for patience and trust in God's timing in your life. Strength in Trials Ask God to reveal His glory through your trials and to strengthen your faith. Compassion for Others Pray for a heart that mirrors Jesus' compassion, to weep with those who weep. Faith in Jesus' Power Pray for a deepened faith in Jesus' power over life and death. Boldness to Speak Life Ask for the courage to speak God's Word into difficult situations, trusting in its power to bring change. Answering Tough Questions 1. How could a body remain intact after four days of decay (John 11:39)? 2. Why does this major miracle only appear in John and not in the other Gospels (John 11)? 3. Where is independent historical or archaeological evidence that confirms Lazarus’s resurrection (John 11:45–46)? 4. Could Lazarus have been mistaken for dead rather than truly resurrected (John 11:14)? 5. Why resurrect Lazarus yet allow others to die, and does this choice raise questions of fairness (John 11:4)? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Jesus' response to Lazarus' illness deepen your understanding of divine timing and purpose? 2. How does Martha's interaction with Jesus reflect her faith and understanding of His identity? 3. What does Jesus' emotional response to Lazarus' death reveal about His nature and character? 4. How does Lazarus' resurrection underscore Jesus' power and authority? 5. What can you learn from the different responses of the Jews who witnessed Lazarus' resurrection? 6. How does the plot of the Pharisees to kill Jesus reflect the growing tension between Jesus and the religious leaders? 7. How does Jesus' statement, "I am the resurrection and the life," impact your understanding of His role and mission? 8. How does this chapter deepen your understanding of the connection between faith and eternal life? 9. In what ways does this chapter challenge traditional perspectives on death and life? 10. How does the resurrection of Lazarus give you hope in times of personal loss or grief? 11. How can Martha's and Mary's different responses to their brother's death inform your response to suffering? 12. How can you apply the message of divine timing presented in this chapter to your life circumstances? 13. What does this chapter teach you about the power of prayer, as demonstrated by Jesus' prayer at Lazarus' tomb? 14. How does this chapter encourage you to persevere in faith amidst trials and opposition? 15. Reflect on the theme of spiritual awakening as presented in this chapter. 16. How does Jesus' retreat to a remote region after the plot to kill Him reflect His wisdom and discernment? 17. In what ways does this chapter illuminate the cost of discipleship? 18. How does the miracle of Lazarus' resurrection resonate with your personal faith journey? 19. How can the themes and messages of this chapter inspire you to live out your faith more boldly? 20. Reflect on the entire chapter. How does the story of Lazarus' resurrection deepen your understanding of Jesus' identity and mission? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions