How does John 12:11 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Witness in Bethany: John 12:11 “because on account of him many of the Jews were leaving the chief priests and believing in Jesus.” Commission to the Nations: Matthew 28:19-20 “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you all the days, until the end of the age.” Shared Core Themes • Personal testimony leads to belief • Movement from unbelief to discipleship • God’s plan advances through ordinary people A Living Illustration of the Great Commission • Lazarus becomes an eyewitness proof of Jesus’ power; his very existence “makes disciples” as people believe in Christ (John 11:43-44). • The shift “many…were believing” mirrors the Great Commission’s call: disciples are multiplied when Christ’s work is openly displayed. • Bethany’s local awakening previews the gospel’s global reach—first Jerusalem, then “all nations” (cf. Acts 1:8). Discipleship Pattern Observed 1. Witness: Lazarus’ resurrection is public evidence (John 12:9). 2. Belief: Many Jews place faith in Jesus (v. 11). 3. Separation: They “were leaving the chief priests,” aligning life with new faith—matching Jesus’ mandate to “teach them to observe” His commands. Why the Connection Matters • John 12:11 shows that authentic encounters with Christ naturally create disciple-making momentum. • The Great Commission formalizes this dynamic, turning spontaneous witness into intentional mission. • Both passages reveal Jesus as the center—His power draws, His authority sends (John 20:21). Practical Takeaways for Modern Disciples • Share concrete stories of Christ’s work in your life; God uses changed lives to spark faith in others (1 Peter 3:15). • Move relationships beyond initial belief into ongoing teaching and obedience—baptism, Scripture, community. • Expect opposition—as chief priests resisted Lazarus’ impact (John 12:10), spiritual resistance continues, yet Jesus’ promise “I am with you” stands firm. |
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