John 11:24 – “Martha answered, ‘I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.’”
Extended Explanation
Martha, one of the sisters of Lazarus, speaks these words to Jesus after her brother has died. She is grieving, yet her statement shows her belief in the resurrection of the dead. When Jesus tells her that Lazarus will rise again, she assumes He is referring to the general resurrection that will happen at the end of time. This was a belief held by many Jews, particularly the Pharisees, based on Old Testament teachings about life after death.
However, Jesus was about to reveal something far greater. He was not only talking about the final resurrection but about His power to bring life even now. In the next verse, He declares, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25), shifting Martha’s focus from a future event to the present reality of who He is.
Martha’s response shows that she has faith, but she does not yet fully grasp the depth of Christ’s power. Like many of us, she believes in God’s promises but struggles to see how they apply in the present moment.
Historical Context
The Jewish people in Jesus’ time were divided on the question of life after death. The Pharisees believed in a bodily resurrection at the end of the age, while the Sadducees denied it (Acts 23:8). Martha’s words reflect the common teaching of the Pharisees, which was based on scriptures like Daniel 12:2:
“Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt.”
This expectation of a future resurrection was a source of hope, especially for those who suffered injustice or persecution. However, Martha did not yet understand that the one standing in front of her was the very source of life itself.
Theological Implications
This verse touches on a core belief of Christianity—eternal life. Martha knew about the resurrection at the last day, but Jesus wanted her to see that resurrection is not just an event; it is a person—Himself.
Jesus later proves this truth by raising Lazarus from the dead (John 11:43-44). This miracle points forward to His own resurrection, demonstrating His power over death. It also confirms the promise that all who believe in Him will rise again (1 Corinthians 15:20-22).
This verse reminds us that our hope is not just in a distant future but in Christ Himself. Eternal life begins the moment we place our trust in Him (John 5:24).
Literary Analysis
John 11 is a beautifully structured narrative with deep theological meaning. The dialogue between Jesus and Martha is written in a way that builds anticipation. Martha’s statement in verse 24 is a turning point. She expresses faith but does not yet see the full picture.
The contrast between what Martha believes (a future resurrection) and what Jesus reveals (He is the resurrection) creates dramatic tension. This tension is resolved when Jesus raises Lazarus, demonstrating that His words are not just theological ideas but living truth.
John’s Gospel often uses misunderstandings like this to show how Jesus reveals deeper spiritual truths (e.g., John 3:3-4; John 4:10-11).
Biblical Cross-References
- Daniel 12:2 – A prophecy about the resurrection of the dead.
- Job 19:25-26 – Job expresses faith in the resurrection: “I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth.”
- John 5:28-29 – Jesus speaks of a coming resurrection for both the righteous and the wicked.
- 1 Corinthians 15:20-22 – Paul explains that Christ’s resurrection guarantees ours.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
Like Martha, many of us believe in God’s promises but struggle to trust Him in our current struggles. We believe in heaven, but do we trust God with today’s hardships? Jesus reminds us that He is not just the God of the future—He is the God of right now.
This verse calls us to put our hope not just in a distant resurrection but in the living Christ. We do not have to wait until eternity to experience His power. Jesus brings spiritual life to those who are dead in sin (Ephesians 2:4-5) and restores hope in impossible situations.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in His promise of eternal life. He does not abandon us to death and decay. Martha’s hope in the resurrection was based on God’s faithfulness, and Jesus affirmed that hope by revealing Himself as the resurrection and the life.
Jesus’ love is also deeply personal. He did not just perform a miracle—He wept with Martha and Mary (John 11:35). His compassion reminds us that He is not distant or indifferent to our pain. Even when we do not understand His timing, His love never fails.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
John 11:24 directly leads into one of Jesus’ most powerful statements:
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” (John 11:25)
This verse highlights the heart of the gospel. Jesus did not just talk about resurrection—He proved His power over death by raising Lazarus and ultimately by rising from the grave Himself (Luke 24:5-6).
Because He lives, all who believe in Him will live forever (John 14:19). His resurrection is the foundation of our faith (1 Corinthians 15:17). Without it, there is no hope. With it, death is defeated, and eternal life is assured.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Martha believed in the resurrection at the last day. How does her belief compare to your own understanding of eternal life?
- Do you struggle to trust Jesus with your present circumstances, even though you believe in His future promises?
- How does knowing that Jesus is the resurrection and the life change your perspective on death and suffering?
- What situations in your life require you to shift your focus from a distant hope to a present faith in Christ?
- How can you encourage others with the truth that Jesus has power over death?
This passage reminds us that Jesus is not just the giver of life—He is life itself. Trusting in Him is not just about securing a future in heaven, but about experiencing His presence and power today.