How does John 11:14 connect to Jesus' power over death in John 11:25? Setting the Scene • John 11 opens with news of Lazarus’ illness, yet Jesus deliberately stays two more days (11:6). • The delay is purposeful—Jesus is orchestrating a moment that will unmistakably display His glory (11:4). • By the time He sets out for Bethany, Lazarus has already died, guaranteeing there is no natural explanation for what will follow (11:17, 39). John 11:14 – Death Stated Plainly “So Jesus told them plainly, ‘Lazarus is dead.’” • No euphemisms, no hopeful spin—Jesus affirms literal, physical death. • The disciples must grasp the finality of the situation; only then will they comprehend the magnitude of what He is about to do. • This plain statement underscores human helplessness in the face of death, preparing everyone to see God’s intervention. John 11:25 – Life Declared Powerfully “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies.’” • Rather than offering mere comfort, Jesus identifies Himself as the very source of resurrection. • The verb “am” places resurrection in the present tense; it is bound up in His person now. • Belief in Him secures life that death cannot cancel—a truth He will immediately authenticate. The Bridge Between Verse 14 and Verse 25 • Verse 14 exposes death’s reality; verse 25 unveils Jesus as death’s conqueror. • The sequence is intentional: – Plain admission of loss → eagerly anticipated manifestation of life. – Human impossibility → divine capability. • The same mouth that declares “Lazarus is dead” soon commands, “Lazarus, come out!” (11:43), proving His claim. • Other Scriptures echo this pattern: – John 5:21: “the Son gives life to whom He will.” – John 10:17-18: He has authority to lay down His life and take it up again. – Revelation 1:18: He holds “the keys of Death and of Hades.” What This Teaches about Jesus’ Power over Death • His knowledge is perfect—He knows exactly when death occurs (11:14). • His authority is absolute—He reverses death at a word (11:43-44). • His promise is personal—resurrection is not merely future but embodied in Him now (11:25). • His victory is universal—for all who believe, “even though he dies, yet shall he live” (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:20-22). Living in the Reality of His Power • Face death honestly, as Jesus did—no denial needed when He is present. • Anchor hope not in circumstances but in the Person who IS resurrection. • Walk in daily confidence that physical death is defeated and eternal life has already begun (John 5:24). |
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