How should John 11:11 influence our response to grief and loss? Setting the Scene “After He had said this, He told them, ‘Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I am going there to wake him up.’” (John 11:11) What Jesus Says • Jesus calls death “sleep,” revealing it is temporary under His authority. • He speaks of Lazarus as “our friend,” stressing relationship and shared love. • He promises, “I am going,” underscoring personal involvement and sovereign power to reverse loss. Key Truths for Our Hearts • Death is not final; Christ can “wake” the dead (John 5:28-29). • Because Jesus is life itself (John 11:25-26), our loved ones in Him are secure. • Grief is real, but despair is unnecessary; Jesus is already on the way. How This Shapes Our Grief • Hope tempers sorrow: “We do not grieve like the rest, who are without hope.” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-14) • We see death as a pause, not an ending—encouraging gentle, confident mourning rather than hopeless lament. • Grief becomes communal: “our friend” invites us to comfort one another (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). • Trust replaces panic; Jesus’ timing is perfect even when He seems delayed (John 11:6). Practical Steps of Faith • Speak biblical language of hope—“asleep in Jesus”—to remind hearts of resurrection. • Bring sorrow to Christ quickly, knowing He draws near to the broken-hearted (Psalm 34:18). • Encourage one another with resurrection promises (1 Corinthians 15:51-57). • Serve grieving believers with tangible love, reflecting Christ’s personal concern. • Worship through tears, affirming, “Lord, even now I believe” (John 11:22). Additional Scriptures to Anchor Hope • Isaiah 25:8—He will swallow up death forever. • Revelation 21:4—No more death or mourning. • Philippians 1:23—To depart and be with Christ is far better. |
    |