Topical Encyclopedia In the Gospel of John, the account of Jesus offering condolence to Mary and Martha upon the death of their brother Lazarus is a profound demonstration of His compassion and divine authority over life and death. This narrative is found in John 11:1-44 and provides a rich tapestry of theological and emotional insights.Context and Setting Lazarus, a resident of Bethany and the brother of Mary and Martha, had fallen gravely ill. The sisters sent word to Jesus, hoping for His intervention. Despite His deep love for the family, Jesus delayed His visit, stating, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it" (John 11:4). This delay was purposeful, setting the stage for a greater revelation of His power. Jesus' Arrival and Interaction with Martha Upon His arrival, Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. Martha, upon hearing that Jesus was near, went out to meet Him. Her initial words to Jesus were filled with both faith and sorrow: "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died" (John 11:21). Jesus responded with a profound promise, "Your brother will rise again" (John 11:23). Martha expressed her belief in the resurrection at the last day, to which Jesus declared, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies" (John 11:25). This statement not only offered comfort but also revealed His divine identity and authority over death. Jesus' Interaction with Mary Mary, who had remained in the house, was summoned by Martha. When she reached Jesus, she fell at His feet, echoing her sister's sentiment: "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died" (John 11:32). Jesus, deeply moved by her weeping and the mourning of those around her, was troubled in spirit. His empathy is powerfully captured in the shortest verse of the Bible, "Jesus wept" (John 11:35). This moment underscores His genuine humanity and His capacity to share in the grief of His loved ones. The Raising of Lazarus Jesus proceeded to the tomb, where He commanded the stone to be removed. Despite Martha's concern about the odor, Jesus reminded her, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" (John 11:40). After offering a prayer of thanks to the Father, Jesus called out in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" (John 11:43). Lazarus emerged, still bound in grave clothes, and Jesus instructed those present to "Unbind him and let him go" (John 11:44). Theological Implications This event is a testament to Jesus' dual nature as both fully human and fully divine. His tears reflect His empathy and shared sorrow with humanity, while His command over death affirms His divine authority. The raising of Lazarus serves as a precursor to Jesus' own resurrection, offering a foretaste of the ultimate victory over death that He would accomplish. Application for Believers For believers, this account provides assurance of Jesus' compassion and His power to bring life from death. It encourages faith in His promises and offers hope in the face of loss. Jesus' interaction with Mary and Martha exemplifies His personal care and His ability to meet us in our deepest grief, offering not only comfort but also the promise of eternal life through faith in Him. Nave's Topical Index John 11:23-35Jesus said to her, Your brother shall rise again. Nave's Topical Index Library The Resurrection of Lazarus The Master. Resources Condoled: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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