John 11:37

But some of them asked, "Could not this man who opened the eyes of the blind also have kept Lazarus from dying?"

Study Bible

But some of them asked
This phrase introduces a group of onlookers who are skeptical or questioning. The Greek word for "some" (τινες) indicates a subset of the people present, suggesting a division in opinion among the witnesses. This reflects a common theme in the Gospels where Jesus' miracles often lead to mixed reactions, highlighting the varied responses to His ministry. Historically, this skepticism is consistent with the Jewish expectation of a Messiah who would perform signs and wonders, yet many struggled to reconcile Jesus' actions with their preconceived notions.

Could not this man
The phrase "this man" (οὗτος ὁ ἄνθρωπος) is significant as it reflects a certain familiarity and perhaps a dismissive tone. The use of "this man" instead of a more respectful title like "Rabbi" or "Lord" suggests a lack of recognition of Jesus' divine authority by some in the crowd. This reflects the broader tension in the Gospel of John between belief and unbelief, a central theme that challenges readers to consider their own perception of Jesus.

who opened the eyes of the blind
This reference to Jesus' previous miracle of healing a blind man (John 9) serves as a testimony to His power and divine authority. The act of opening the eyes of the blind is not only a physical miracle but also a metaphor for spiritual enlightenment. In the Jewish context, such miracles were seen as signs of the Messianic age, fulfilling prophecies like those in Isaiah 35:5. The historical and scriptural context underscores the expectation that the Messiah would perform such deeds, yet the crowd's question reveals their struggle to fully grasp Jesus' identity and mission.

also have kept Lazarus from dying
The question posed here reflects a limited understanding of Jesus' power, focusing on prevention rather than resurrection. The Greek word for "kept" (φυλάξαι) implies protection or guarding, suggesting that the crowd believed Jesus could have intervened to prevent death. This reflects a common human tendency to question God's actions or inactions in the face of suffering. Theologically, this sets the stage for the revelation of Jesus as the "resurrection and the life" (John 11:25), challenging believers to trust in His sovereignty over life and death.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
Central figure in the Gospel of John, known for His miracles and teachings. In this context, He is about to perform the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead.

2. Lazarus
A friend of Jesus who has died. His resurrection is a pivotal miracle in the Gospel of John.

3. Martha and Mary
Sisters of Lazarus, who are mourning his death. They express faith in Jesus but also struggle with their grief.

4. The Crowd
Composed of Jews who came to comfort Mary and Martha. They express skepticism and doubt about Jesus' power.

5. Bethany
The village where Lazarus, Mary, and Martha lived, located near Jerusalem. It is the setting for this miracle.

Teaching Points

Faith vs. Doubt
The crowd's question reflects a common human struggle between faith and doubt. Believers are encouraged to trust in Jesus' power, even when circumstances seem dire.

Jesus' Compassion
Despite the skepticism, Jesus is moved by compassion. This teaches us that Jesus understands our grief and is present in our suffering.

God's Timing
The delay in Jesus' arrival was purposeful, demonstrating that God's timing is perfect, even when it is not understood by us.

Power Over Death
This event foreshadows Jesus' own resurrection and His ultimate victory over death, offering hope to believers.

Witness to Unbelievers
The miracle serves as a testimony to those who doubt, showing that Jesus' works are meant to lead people to faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the crowd's question in John 11:37 reflect common human doubts about God's power and presence in difficult situations?

2. In what ways does Jesus' response to Lazarus' death demonstrate His compassion and understanding of human grief?

3. How can the account of Lazarus' resurrection encourage us to trust in God's timing, even when it seems delayed?

4. What connections can you find between Jesus' miracles in the Gospels and His ultimate victory over death through His resurrection?

5. How can believers use the account of Lazarus to witness to those who are skeptical about Jesus' power and authority?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 9:1-12
This passage describes Jesus healing a man born blind, which the crowd references in John 11:37. It highlights Jesus' power over physical ailments and sets the stage for His power over death.

Psalm 146:8
This verse speaks of the Lord opening the eyes of the blind, connecting to the crowd's reference to Jesus' previous miracle and affirming His divine authority.

Luke 7:11-17
Jesus raises the widow's son at Nain, demonstrating His compassion and power over death, similar to the raising of Lazarus.