◄ John 11 ►
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Summary Jesus Raises Lazarus John 11 offers a profound narrative highlighting Jesus' ultimate power over life and death. It presents a moving depiction of Jesus' compassion, His deep connections with those He loved, and His absolute mastery over physical and spiritual realms. This chapter illuminates the hope and life that comes from faith in Jesus, even in the face of death, urging believers to find comfort, strength, and confidence in Him. Verses 1-16: Lazarus’ Illness and Death Lazarus, brother of Mary and Martha, falls sick. Despite the sisters' message, Jesus deliberately stays two more days before deciding to visit, affirming the situation will glorify God and the Son of God. Jesus announces Lazarus's death to the disciples and their subsequent journey to Judea, despite their concerns about Jewish opposition. Verses 17-27: Jesus and Martha On reaching Bethany, Jesus consoles Martha, promising resurrection and life to those who believe in Him. Martha expresses faith in Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God. Verses 28-37: Jesus and Mary Martha informs Mary of Jesus' arrival. Deeply moved by Mary and the mourners' weeping, Jesus displays intense emotion, asking for Lazarus's tomb. Verses 38-44: The Resurrection of Lazarus At the tomb, Jesus prays and commands Lazarus to come out. Lazarus emerges, bound in burial clothes, illustrating Jesus' power over death. Verses 45-57: The Pharisees' Plot to Kill Jesus Witnessing the miracle, many Jews believe in Jesus. Some report to the Pharisees, who, fearing Roman retaliation, plot to kill Jesus. As a result, Jesus withdraws to a remote region. 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. 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. 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. 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. Bible Study 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? 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. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions