The Gospel of John, chapter 11, recounts one of the most compelling miracles performed by Jesus Christ: the raising of Lazarus from the dead. Within this powerful narrative, verses 25 and 26 stand out as a pivotal declaration of Jesus’ divine nature and his promise of eternal life. This passage, often referred to as John 11:25-26, is not just a statement of fact but a profound theological assertion that resonates deeply with believers and seekers alike. Let’s delve into the depths of this scripture and explore its significance for understanding Jesus and the Christian faith.
The story begins in Bethany, a village close to Jerusalem, where Lazarus resided with his sisters, Mary and Martha. This family held a special place in Jesus’ heart, as the text explicitly mentions, “Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus.” (John 11:5). When Lazarus fell ill, his sisters sent word to Jesus, hoping for his timely intervention. Their message was simple yet filled with faith: “Master, the one you love is ill.” (John 11:3).
However, Jesus’ response was not immediate. He stated, “This illness is not to end in death, but is for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” (John 11:4). Despite his love for Lazarus and his family, Jesus deliberately delayed his arrival in Bethany for two days. This delay was not out of neglect but part of a divine plan to reveal a greater truth and demonstrate his power over death itself.
When Jesus finally decided to journey back to Judea, his disciples were apprehensive, reminding him of the recent threats against his life in the region. Yet, Jesus, with unwavering resolve, explained his purpose, using the metaphor of light and darkness to illustrate his divine mission. He then revealed his intention regarding Lazarus, saying, “Our friend Lazarus is asleep, but I am going to awaken him.” (John 11:11). The disciples, misunderstanding his metaphorical language, thought he meant natural sleep. Jesus then clarified, “Lazarus has died. And I am glad for you that I was not there, that you may believe. Let us go to him.” (John 11:14-15).
Upon arriving in Bethany, Jesus was met by Martha. In her grief and faith, Martha expressed, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” (John 11:21). This statement reflects both her sorrow and her belief in Jesus’ healing power. She then added, with remarkable faith, “But even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you.” (John 11:22). Jesus responded with the comforting yet enigmatic promise, “Your brother will rise.” (John 11:23).
Martha, understanding the common Jewish belief in a future resurrection, replied, “I know he will rise, in the resurrection on the last day.” (John 11:24). It is at this juncture, in verse 25 and 26 of John 11, that Jesus makes his earth-shattering declaration:
“Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”” (John 11:25-26)
This statement is packed with profound meaning and divine authority. Let’s break down the key components of John 11:25-26:
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“I am the resurrection and the life”: Jesus doesn’t just offer resurrection and life; he is resurrection and life itself. This is an “I AM” statement, echoing God’s self-revelation to Moses (Exodus 3:14) and asserting Jesus’ divine identity. He is the source and embodiment of both resurrection and eternal life. This goes beyond merely raising someone from the dead physically; it speaks to a deeper, spiritual reality.
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“whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live”: This part addresses the paradox of death for believers. Even though physical death is a reality for everyone, faith in Jesus transcends death. For those who believe in him, death is not the end but a transition to a different form of life – eternal life in his presence. “Even if he dies” acknowledges the physical reality, while “will live” promises a life beyond the physical realm for believers.
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“and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die”: This second part of verse 26 emphasizes the quality of life that believers experience even in this present world. It speaks of a spiritual life that is already eternal, a life that death cannot ultimately touch or extinguish. “Never die” here refers to spiritual death – separation from God. Believers, through their faith in Jesus, are promised to never experience this eternal separation.
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“Do you believe this?”: This concluding question is crucial. Jesus invites Martha, and by extension, all of us, to make a personal decision of faith. The promise of resurrection and eternal life is not automatic; it is contingent upon belief in Jesus Christ. He challenges Martha to move beyond intellectual assent to a heartfelt acceptance of his claims.
Martha’s response to Jesus’ powerful declaration in John 11:25-26 is equally significant. She proclaims, “Yes, Lord. I have come to believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world.” (John 11:27). Her affirmation is a powerful statement of faith, acknowledging Jesus’ identity as the Christ, the Son of God. This confession highlights the intended outcome of Jesus’ declaration – to lead people to belief and faith in him.
Following this profound dialogue, Jesus proceeds to Mary, and then to the tomb of Lazarus. His encounter with Mary mirrors Martha’s, with Mary echoing the sentiment, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” (John 11:32). Witnessing their grief and the sorrow of those around, Jesus himself wept, demonstrating his deep empathy and humanity.
Despite his emotions, Jesus remained focused on his divine purpose. He commanded, “Take away the stone.” (John 11:39), and despite Martha’s practical concern about the stench of a four-day-old corpse, they obeyed. Then, in a powerful display of divine authority, Jesus prayed to the Father and cried out in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” (John 11:43). And miraculously, Lazarus emerged from the tomb, alive.
The raising of Lazarus is not merely a spectacular miracle; it is a powerful sign that authenticates Jesus’ claim in John 11:25-26. It is a tangible demonstration of his power over death and a foreshadowing of the resurrection he offers to all who believe in him. The event had a profound impact, with many of the Jews who witnessed it believing in Jesus (John 11:45). However, it also intensified the opposition against him, leading the Sanhedrin to plot his death (John 11:46-53). This Johannine irony underscores the theme that Jesus’ gift of life ultimately leads to his own sacrificial death, which in turn becomes the ultimate source of life for humanity.
John 11:25-26 is more than just a comforting verse; it is a cornerstone of Christian theology. It reveals Jesus as the divine source of resurrection and eternal life. It calls for a personal response of faith, inviting everyone to believe in Jesus and embrace the promise of life that transcends death. This passage encourages believers to find hope in the face of mortality and to live with the assurance of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ, the resurrection and the life.
In conclusion, John 11:25-26 is a powerful and transformative declaration. It is a verse that encapsulates the core message of the Gospel: Jesus is the answer to death, offering eternal life to all who believe. Reflecting on these verses deepens our understanding of Jesus’ identity and strengthens our faith in his promises. It is an invitation to believe and live in the light of the resurrection and the life that Jesus Christ embodies.
