Overview
John 11 centers on one of Jesus' most astounding miracles: the raising of Lazarus from the dead. It begins with Jesus receiving news of Lazarus' illness but delaying His journey to Bethany, indicating that the illness would not end in death but in God's glory. Upon arrival, Lazarus has been in the tomb for four days, and his sisters Martha and Mary express their grief. Jesus, moved with compassion, weeps with them. Martha acknowledges Jesus as the Christ, and Jesus declares Himself as the Resurrection and the Life. Approaching the tomb, He commands the stone to be removed and calls Lazarus forth, who comes out alive, still bound in graveclothes. This miracle leads many to believe in Him, but also intensifies the Pharisees' plot to kill Him. The chapter underscores Jesus' mastery over death and provides a profound illustration of His divine nature, His empathy, and His purpose to glorify the Father. It sets the stage for the approaching climax of His earthly ministry.