Chapter Eleven
John 11 is a powerful chapter about Jesus’ deep love, power over death, and the promise of eternal life. The story begins with Jesus learning that His friend Lazarus is seriously ill. Instead of rushing to heal him, Jesus stays where He is for two more days, saying that the illness will not end in death but will glorify God. When He finally arrives in Bethany, Lazarus has already died and been in the tomb for four days. Martha meets Jesus and expresses her faith, saying she knows that if Jesus had been there, her brother would not have died. Jesus tells her, “I am the resurrection and the life,” and that anyone who believes in Him will never die. He then calls Lazarus out of the tomb, and to everyone’s amazement, Lazarus walks out alive! This miracle causes many to believe in Jesus, but the religious leaders plot to kill Him, fearing His growing influence. The chapter shows Jesus’ power to bring life even in the face of death, and it points to the ultimate resurrection through Him.