What is the significance of Martha's objection in John 11:39? Text and Setting John 11:39 : “Jesus said, ‘Take away the stone.’ Martha, the sister of the deceased, replied, ‘Lord, by now he stinks, for it has already been four days.’ ” Narrative Function Martha’s objection is the narrative hinge between Jesus’ command (“Take away the stone”) and His climactic miracle (“Lazarus, come out!” v. 43). By voicing the natural, commonsense protest, she allows the Gospel writer to underscore how hopeless death appears in human eyes—heightening the contrast with Christ’s sovereign power and setting the stage for the greatest public sign before the Passion. Historical–Cultural Background 1. Burial customs: First‐century Judeans wrapped the body in linen with aromatic spices (cf. John 19:40). A stone sealed the family tomb to slow decay smells and deter animals. 2. Four‐day significance: Rabbinic sources (e.g., b. Yevamot 16a; Genesis Rabbah 100:7) record the belief that the “nefesh” hovered near the body for three days; on the fourth day decay became irreversible. John’s “four days” confirms Lazarus is not merely in a coma and excludes folkloric resuscitation. 3. Climate realities: In the Judean spring, a corpse begins noticeable putrefaction within 24–48 hours. By day four, the odor (“ὄζει”) would be unmistakable. Martha’s comment is historically plausible and medically precise. Psychological Layer Though she earlier confessed, “I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God” (v. 27), grief and sensory realism momentarily eclipse her faith. Her reaction reflects typical bereavement behavior: cognitive acknowledgement of doctrine coexisting with visceral doubt when confronted by empirical evidence. Theological Emphases 1. Christ’s authority over corruption: Jewish Scripture links decay with sin’s curse (Genesis 3:19; Psalm 16:10). By reversing putrefaction, Jesus signals dominion over both physical death and its spiritual cause. 2. Progressive revelation: Jesus had proclaimed, “I am the resurrection and the life” (v. 25). Martha’s protest becomes the foil through which that declaration moves from abstract creed to observable fact. 3. Typology: Rolling away the stone prefigures Jesus’ own tomb (John 20:1). Martha’s fear of stench contrasts with the later discovery that Christ’s grave clothes held no corpse (20:6–7), reinforcing victory over decay for all who believe (1 Corinthians 15:54–57). Practical Application Believers today confront situations that “stink”—humanly impossible. Martha’s tension between confession and hesitation invites Christians to obey Christ’s directives even when senses scream otherwise, trusting the One who calls dead things to life (Romans 4:17). Summary Martha’s objection crystallizes the reality of death, verifies Lazarus’ condition, accentuates Jesus’ glory, and offers a timeless lesson in faith that transcends empirical despair. Without her protest, the miracle’s apologetic force and pastoral comfort would be diminished; with it, the text proclaims unequivocally that the Son of God commands life where decay reigns. |
    |