What can we learn about Jesus' relationship with Lazarus from John 11:3? Setting the Scene • John 11:3: “So the sisters sent word to Him, ‘Lord, the one You love is sick.’” • Bethany is two miles from Jerusalem (John 11:18). Mary and Martha dispatch a messenger; they know exactly where to find Jesus and assume His readiness to come. • The statement is short, relational, and confident—no instructions, no pleas, just a report grounded in love. A Friendship Real, Warm, and Personal • “Love” here translates the verb phileō, describing deep affection and friendship. • Jesus is not a distant miracle-worker; He is a close friend, welcomed in the family’s home (Luke 10:38-42). • John later notes, “Now Jesus loved (agapaō) Martha and her sister and Lazarus” (John 11:5). Both phileō and agapaō are used, showing affection and covenantal commitment side by side. • The family’s easy address—“Lord, the one You love”—reveals they measured Lazarus’s value by Christ’s love, not by personal merit or achievements. Trust Demonstrated by the Sisters • No request is spelled out; they trust Jesus will know what to do. • Their message rests on His character, echoing Psalm 62:8, “Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts before Him.” • Confidence in Christ’s love becomes the ground of prayer (1 Peter 5:7). Love That Moves but Also Waits • Jesus delays two days (John 11:6), proving divine timing may look different from human expectations—yet love is still the motive (John 11:4). • His purpose: “for God’s glory, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” Love seeks the highest good, which is God’s glory and our deeper faith (Romans 8:28). Implications for Disciples Today • We can address Jesus on the basis of His love, not our worthiness (Hebrews 4:16). • Friendship with Christ is real: “You are My friends if you do what I command” (John 15:14). • Delays are not denials; divine love sometimes waits to unveil a greater revelation (Isaiah 55:8-9). • When we speak of fellow believers, we can honor them as “the ones Jesus loves,” promoting unity and humility (Philippians 2:1-4). Summary Truths Captured in One Verse • Jesus enjoys genuine friendships. • His love is recognizable and reliable. • Faith approaches Him with confidence in that love. • Divine love pursues God’s glory and our ultimate good, even when the path includes waiting. |
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