How can we encourage others to believe, as seen in John 11:45? The Setting of John 11:45 “Therefore many of the Jews who had come to Mary, and had seen what He did, believed in Him.” (John 11:45) The raising of Lazarus was unmistakable proof of Jesus’ divine power. Those who witnessed it could not deny what their eyes saw, and faith sprang to life. Seeing Leads to Believing • Tangible encounters with God’s work invite genuine faith (John 20:30-31). • Firsthand testimony carries weight—John later writes, “That which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes… proclaim we also to you” (1 John 1:1-3). • Our responsibility is to point people to the same living Christ whose works still speak today through Scripture and transformed lives. Ways We Can Encourage Faith Today • Share personal testimonies of God’s intervention—people relate to real stories. • Live visibly changed lives; “let your light shine before men” (Matthew 5:16). • Demonstrate sacrificial love that mirrors Christ (John 13:35). • Speak the gospel plainly, for “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). • Invite others into Christ-centered community where they can “come and see” (John 1:46). • Pray steadfastly for open hearts (Colossians 4:3-4). The Power of Compassionate Presence Mary, Martha, and their friends were grieving together when Jesus arrived. Showing up in another’s sorrow and bringing Christ’s hope often prepares hearts to believe (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). Trusting Christ’s Timetable Jesus delayed two days (John 11:6) so the miracle would be unmistakable. Helping others see God’s higher purposes in delays—“My thoughts are not your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9)—builds faith in His wisdom. Boldly Presenting the Evidence • “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). • Be ready to explain the hope within you “with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). • Point to historical resurrection proofs, fulfilled prophecy, and personal transformation. Holding to the Promise of Resurrection Life Jesus declared, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies” (John 11:25-26). Presenting this core promise answers humanity’s deepest fear and invites saving faith. Practical Next Steps 1. Identify one person in your circle who needs hope in Christ. 2. Spend time with them, listening before speaking. 3. Share a recent example of God’s faithfulness in your life. 4. Offer to read John 11 together, letting Scripture speak. 5. Trust the Spirit to use your witness, just as He did in John 11:45. |
    |