Notes on the Gospel of John: Chapter 11

In Chapter 10 Jesus speaks of laying down His life for His flock. In Chapter 11, He provides a real life example of the resurrection and draws death, life, death and resurrection together.

My favorite part of this scripture is Thomas’ response to Jesus’ decision to return to Judea where He just escaped death.

“Well, let us go also so we may die with him.” Oh.. .well.

Interestingly enough, taken on a deeper level, what Thomas says here is ultimately true – we must die to ourselves and be risen again with Christ to gain eternal life. Is that what Thomas meant? I have no idea but let’s give him the benefit of the doubt.

Pay close attention to verse 25. Jesus is asking you this question. What is your answer?

I love verse 35.

It bothers many to believe that Jesus was fully human as well as being fully divine. John gives us an intimate portrait of Jesus as a man as well as the Son of God. We see a angry Jesus (clearing the temple), we see a tired and thirsty Jesus (at the well) and here we see a sad Jesus – a Jesus moved by the death of a friend.

As Mary and Martha pointed out, Jesus could have saved Lazarus had He come sooner. Why did He allow Lazarus to die?

He wanted to illustrate God’s power over life and death. The fact that He waited four days is important as well. According to Jewish custom, the soul completely left the body after three days – therefore there was no hope for life here. By waiting four days, Jesus makes the miracle even more powerful.

After all the build up, Jesus looks up to God, thanks him and then simply speaks three words: “Lazarus, come out!” And, guess what? Lazarus did.

Just like Jesus looks at each one of us and tells us to “Get Up! Pick up your mat and walk,” He is also telling us to “Come Out!” Live the life that Christ has granted you through His mercy and grace.

Don’t miss the irony of what Caiaphas says in verse 49. Their plan, in order to save themselves from the Romans, is to kill this one man rather than sacrificing a nation. However, by killing this one man – Jesus – they actually fulfill God’s plan for sacrificing his son for the world – thus ushering in the new covenant.

Amen.