John 11:1 – “Now a man named Lazarus was sick. He was from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha.”
Extended Explanation
This verse sets the stage for one of the most well-known miracles in Jesus’ ministry—the raising of Lazarus from the dead. It introduces Lazarus, not as a stranger, but as a man with a history and a family. His name means “God has helped,” which foreshadows what is about to happen. The verse also connects Lazarus to Bethany and his sisters, Mary and Martha, showing that Jesus had a close relationship with this family. Their story is not just about a miracle but also about faith, trust, and God’s power over life and death.
Historical Context
Bethany was a small village about two miles from Jerusalem. It was a place where Jesus often stayed and was known for being a place of hospitality. Mary and Martha were already introduced earlier in the Gospels, with Martha known for her hospitality and Mary for sitting at Jesus’ feet to listen to His teaching (Luke 10:38-42). The fact that Jesus had close friends here shows His humanity—He had real relationships with real people.
At this time, sickness was often seen as a sign of judgment or divine testing, and there were no hospitals or advanced medicine. A serious illness like the one Lazarus had was usually fatal unless God intervened. The expectation in that culture was that the family and community would care for the sick, but ultimately, people turned to God when there was no other hope.
Theological Implications
This verse reminds us that suffering and sickness are part of the fallen world, but they also serve a greater purpose in God’s plan. Later in John 11, Jesus tells His disciples that Lazarus’ sickness will lead to God’s glory (John 11:4). This shows that God can use suffering to reveal His power and love.
It also highlights the personal nature of Jesus’ ministry. He wasn’t distant or detached from human pain—He entered into it. The fact that Lazarus was sick, and that Jesus was about to be deeply moved by his death (John 11:35), shows us that God cares about our suffering.
Literary Analysis
This verse is simple in structure, yet full of meaning. It serves as a transition between Jesus’ ministry and one of His greatest miracles. The phrase “a man named Lazarus was sick” immediately introduces a problem, creating tension that will unfold in the story. The mention of Mary and Martha helps connect this passage to earlier parts of the Gospels, making it clear that this was a real family with a history of interacting with Jesus.
John often uses narrative storytelling to draw readers into the reality of Jesus’ miracles, and this verse is a perfect example. The details about location and relationships make the story feel grounded in reality, rather than just a mythical or symbolic account.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- John 11:4 – “When he heard this, Jesus said, ‘This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.’” (Shows the divine purpose behind Lazarus’ sickness.)
- Luke 10:38-42 – The story of Mary and Martha’s different ways of relating to Jesus, which gives background to their relationship with Him.
- Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Reveals God’s compassion for those who suffer.)
- Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Shows that even suffering fits into God’s greater plan.)
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that sickness and suffering are real, even for those who love Jesus. Just as Lazarus and his sisters faced trials, we will too. But it also reassures us that Jesus is not distant—He cares deeply about our pain.
In difficult times, we can bring our concerns to Jesus, just as Mary and Martha did. Even when we don’t understand why suffering happens, we can trust that God is working behind the scenes for His glory and our ultimate good.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Some might wonder why a loving God allows sickness and suffering, but this passage shows that God is present even in our pain. Jesus didn’t immediately rush to heal Lazarus—He had a bigger plan. Sometimes, God allows hardship because He is working toward something greater that we can’t yet see.
The love of God is evident in the way Jesus personally engages with Lazarus’ family. He wasn’t just a distant miracle-worker—He was a friend who shared in their grief. That same loving God is with us today, walking with us in our struggles.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse is the beginning of a story that ultimately points to Jesus’ identity as the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25). Lazarus’ sickness and death set the stage for Jesus to show His power over death—a preview of His own resurrection.
In John 11:43-44, Jesus commands Lazarus to come out of the grave, proving that He has authority over life and death. This points directly to Jesus’ mission: to conquer sin and death through His own sacrifice and resurrection.
Additionally, Lazarus’ resurrection foreshadows our future hope. Just as Jesus raised Lazarus, all who believe in Him will one day be raised to eternal life (1 Corinthians 15:51-52). This miracle wasn’t just for Lazarus—it was a sign of what Jesus would accomplish for all who trust in Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you see God’s love in times of suffering?
- What does this verse teach you about Jesus’ personal relationships?
- How does the story of Lazarus strengthen your faith in Jesus’ power over death?
- Have you ever had a situation where you couldn’t understand God’s timing? How did you respond?
- How can you trust God’s greater plan, even when facing difficulties?