How does Jesus' love in John 11:36 inspire our relationships with fellow believers?

◄ Jesus' love in John 11:36: impact on us? ►

The Setting of John 11:36

“Then the Jews said, ‘See how He loved him!’ ” (John 11:36)

• Jesus has come to Bethany after Lazarus has died.

• Moments before raising Lazarus, the Son of God weeps (v. 35).

• Onlookers are struck by the visible depth of His affection.

A Love That Shows Up

• Jesus travels to a place of sorrow rather than avoid it (John 11:17).

• Presence itself is ministry; fellowship grows when we refuse to stay distant from hurting brothers and sisters (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

A Love That Shares Tears

• “Jesus wept” (John 11:35) is more than sympathy—it is genuine identification.

• Romans 12:15 calls us to “weep with those who weep.”

• Shared emotion communicates, “Your pain matters to me because you matter to Christ.”

A Love That Acts in Faith

• After weeping, Jesus commands the stone removed and calls Lazarus out (John 11:39-44).

• Our compassion should move beyond feeling to God-honoring action—encouraging, praying, serving, giving (James 2:15-17).

A Love That Honors God’s Timing

• Jesus waited two days before traveling (John 11:6), demonstrating trust in the Father’s plan.

• Patience with each other mirrors trust that God is working (Ephesians 4:2).

Living Out That Love with Fellow Believers

• Prioritize presence—visit, call, sit beside.

• Practice empathy—listen more than you speak.

• Pray audibly with hurting saints, reminding them of God’s promises.

• Shoulder burdens practically: meals, childcare, financial help (Galatians 6:2).

• Encourage faith—gently point to Christ’s power and resurrection hope (1 Peter 1:3).

Practical Takeaways

1. Let visible compassion mark your friendships: if Jesus’ tears spoke volumes, ours can too.

2. Move from emotion to action: loving deeds confirm sincere hearts (1 John 3:18).

3. Trust God’s timetable with others’ struggles, maintaining patience and hope.

4. Use every opportunity to reflect Christ’s affection, so observers today can likewise say, “See how they love one another.”