What is the meaning of John 11:20? So when Martha heard • “So when Martha heard…” drops us into a household in grief; Lazarus has died (John 11:17-19). • Martha’s ears are attentive to any word about Jesus, revealing a heart that looks to Him first in crisis, much like Psalm 121:1-2. • Earlier, when Jesus first entered their village, Martha was the one who welcomed Him (Luke 10:38). That same openness is still alive. • Her quick response foreshadows the confession she will soon make: “Lord, if You had been here…” (John 11:21-22), a statement that blends sorrow with faith. that Jesus was coming • The report that “Jesus was coming” supplies hope; Martha believes the Lord’s mere presence changes everything, echoing the faith of the centurion who trusted Jesus’ authority even at a distance (Matthew 8:8-10). • She does not question His timing, though four days have elapsed (John 11:39). This mirrors Abraham waiting for Isaac, trusting God’s promise despite delay (Romans 4:20-21). • The verse reminds us that Jesus is never late but arrives according to the Father’s perfect plan (Galatians 4:4). she went out to meet Him • Martha moves toward Jesus—faith expressed in action (James 2:17). • By leaving the crowd of mourners, she separates herself from human consolation to seek divine comfort, paralleling blind Bartimaeus throwing aside his cloak to come to Christ (Mark 10:50). • Meeting Jesus on the road anticipates the truth He will soon declare, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25). Her approach sets the stage for a deeper revelation of His glory (John 11:40). but Mary stayed at home • Mary “stayed at home” (literally, remained seated). This is not indifference but a different temperament; Mary’s earlier posture of sitting at Jesus’ feet (Luke 10:39) shows a contemplative spirit. • Her waiting illustrates that faith can be expressed through stillness as well as movement (Psalm 46:10). • Jesus will later call for her personally (John 11:28-29), demonstrating that He meets each disciple where they are—active Martha on the road, reflective Mary in the house. • Together, the sisters embody the balance of service and worship, echoing Ecclesiastes 3:1: “There is a time to every purpose under heaven.” summary John 11:20 paints two complementary portraits of faith in grief. Martha hears, believes, and runs to Jesus; Mary waits, trusts, and is soon invited into His presence. Both responses draw the Lord near, and both will witness His resurrection power. Whether we rush outward in active trust or remain still in quiet hope, Scripture assures us that Jesus is coming—and His arrival changes everything. |
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