John 11:38 – “Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance.”

An Extended Explanation of the Verse

This verse takes place at a crucial moment in the story of Lazarus. Jesus, having just wept over the death of His friend (John 11:35) and heard the mixed reactions of the crowd (John 11:36-37), now approaches the tomb. The phrase “once more deeply moved” indicates that Jesus was experiencing strong emotions.

The original Greek word used for “deeply moved” (ἐμβριμώμενος, embrimōmenos) suggests more than just sorrow. It can also imply a sense of indignation, even a righteous anger. Jesus was not just grieving—He was deeply troubled, possibly at the pain that death had caused or even at the presence of death itself, which was never part of God’s original design for humanity.

The verse also describes Lazarus’ tomb, which was typical of Jewish burial practices at the time. The tomb was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance, a detail that foreshadows Jesus’ own burial and resurrection. This moment sets the stage for one of Jesus’ most powerful miracles: raising a man from the dead.

Historical Context

Lazarus had been dead for four days, and Jewish customs involved placing a body in a cave-like tomb, usually carved into rock. The entrance would be sealed with a large stone to prevent animals from disturbing the body and to contain the smell of decay.

In Jewish tradition, the soul was thought to remain near the body for three days before departing completely. By waiting until the fourth day, Jesus ensured that no one could claim Lazarus was just unconscious or recovering. His coming resurrection would be undeniable.

The reaction of Jesus—being “deeply moved”—may also reflect the tension between Him and the religious leaders. His previous miracles had already stirred opposition, and this moment would further provoke them. Raising Lazarus would be a public demonstration of His divine power, setting in motion the final events leading to the cross.

Theological Implications

1. Jesus’ Reaction to Death – Jesus’ deep emotion here reminds us that God is not indifferent to suffering. He does not stand far off, untouched by human pain. Instead, Jesus shows righteous anger toward death itself—an enemy that entered the world because of sin (Romans 5:12).
2. The Power of Jesus Over Death – This moment is not just about Jesus mourning a loss; it is about Him preparing to prove that He has power over death. Lazarus’ resurrection will serve as a foreshadowing of Jesus’ own resurrection.
3. God’s Plan and Timing – Many questioned why Jesus had not come sooner to prevent Lazarus from dying (John 11:21, 37). But God’s plan was unfolding in a way that would bring Him the most glory. His timing is always perfect, even when we don’t understand it.

Literary Analysis

John 11:38 is a transition verse that shifts from grief to action. It highlights three important elements:

1. Jesus’ Emotion – The phrase “deeply moved” is repeated from John 11:33, emphasizing His intense feelings about the situation. This repetition underlines the depth of Jesus’ compassion and the significance of what is about to happen.
2. The Setting of the Miracle – The description of the tomb as a cave with a stone laid across the entrance is important because it mirrors Jesus’ own burial place (John 19:41-42). This foreshadowing connects the resurrection of Lazarus with Jesus’ ultimate victory over death.
3. A Moment of Anticipation – The verse builds tension. Jesus is at the tomb, and the crowd is watching. Something extraordinary is about to happen, but no one fully understands what yet.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Mark 14:33-34 – Jesus is deeply troubled in the Garden of Gethsemane before His crucifixion, showing a similar depth of emotion.
• Hebrews 2:14-15 – Jesus came to destroy the power of death and set people free from its fear.
• 1 Corinthians 15:26 – “The last enemy to be destroyed is death.” Jesus’ emotion at the tomb reflects this ultimate battle.
• John 19:41-42 – Jesus’ own tomb was also a cave with a stone, connecting Lazarus’ resurrection with Jesus’ resurrection.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds us that Jesus deeply cares about the pain and suffering we experience in life. He is not distant or passive—He is present, engaged, and moved by our struggles.

It also challenges us to trust God’s timing. Just as Mary and Martha wished Jesus had come sooner, we often want God to act immediately. But God’s plan is always greater than our expectations.

Finally, it reminds us that Jesus is not just a teacher or healer—He is the one who has power over life and death. His victory over Lazarus’ tomb gives us confidence that He has the power to bring hope, renewal, and eternal life.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Jesus’ reaction at the tomb is proof of God’s love. He does not ignore suffering or remain distant from human pain. He steps into it, experiences it, and responds with compassion.

God’s love is not passive—it is active. Jesus’ love for Lazarus and his sisters moved Him to tears, but it also moved Him to action. This is the kind of love God has for all of us. He sees our pain, feels our sorrow, and acts on our behalf.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus’ Humanity – This verse highlights Jesus’ full humanity. He experienced grief, sorrow, and anger, just as we do. This makes Him a Savior who understands our struggles (Hebrews 4:15).
2. Jesus’ Power – Though He was deeply moved, Jesus did not remain in sorrow. He acted. This mirrors His mission—to confront death and defeat it.
3. A Picture of His Own Death and Resurrection – The tomb, the stone, and the coming resurrection of Lazarus all point ahead to Jesus’ own death and resurrection. Just as He would call Lazarus out of the grave, He would rise from His own grave three days after His crucifixion, securing eternal life for all who believe in Him (John 11:25-26).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think Jesus was so deeply moved at Lazarus’ tomb?
2. How does Jesus’ reaction to death encourage you in your own struggles and losses?
3. Have you ever questioned God’s timing in your life? How does this story challenge you to trust Him more?
4. What does Jesus’ power over death mean for you personally?
5. How does this verse help you understand God’s love in a deeper way?

John 11:38 is a powerful moment in the story of Lazarus. It shows Jesus’ deep love, His righteous anger at death, and His readiness to act. It reminds us that God is not distant—He is with us in our struggles, and He has the power to bring life even in the darkest situations.