John 11:15

Context

John 11:15 occurs amidst one of the most significant narratives in the Gospel of John: the raising of Lazarus from the dead. Jesus has received word that His dear friend Lazarus is gravely ill in Bethany. Rather than immediately going, Jesus intentionally delays for two days, to the perplexity of His disciples. When He finally declares His intention to go to Judea, His disciples express concern, reminding Him that the Jewish leaders in that region recently sought to stone Him (John 11:8). Jesus has just clarified that Lazarus is not merely "sleeping" but truly dead. In this verse, Jesus explains His delay and purpose to His disciples, preparing them for the profound miracle to come.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Purpose and Timing: Jesus's gladness that He "was not there" at the time of Lazarus's death highlights His sovereign control over events. His delay was not a lack of concern but a deliberate part of God's larger plan to reveal His glory and power.
• Strengthening Faith: The primary reason for Jesus's delay was "to the intent ye may believe." This event was designed to deepen the disciples' faith, not just in Jesus's ability to heal the sick, but in His ultimate authority over life and death itself. It served as a powerful sign pointing to His own future resurrection and His identity as the "Resurrection and the Life" (John 11:25). The Gospel of John consistently emphasizes belief as crucial for receiving eternal life (John 20:31).
• Courage and Commitment: Despite the clear danger awaiting Him in Judea, Jesus declares, "nevertheless let us go unto him." This demonstrates His unwavering commitment to His divine mission and His love for Lazarus and his sisters. Jesus willingly faces peril to fulfill God's will and demonstrate His power.

Linguistic Insights

• The Greek phrase translated "to the intent" is hina (ἵνα), which strongly expresses purpose or result. It underscores that Jesus's absence and Lazarus's death were not accidental but part of a deliberate divine strategy to achieve a specific outcome: increased faith in the disciples.
• The word "believe" (pisteuō, πιστεύω) is central to John's Gospel. It implies more than mere intellectual assent; it signifies a deep trust, reliance, and commitment to Jesus as the Son of God. This miracle was meant to solidify that profound belief in the disciples.

Practical Application

This verse offers powerful insights for believers today:

• Trust in God's Timing: Just as Jesus's delay served a higher purpose, we can trust that God's timing in our lives, even when it feels delayed or confusing, is always perfect and designed for His glory and our good. Difficult circumstances or unanswered prayers may be setting the stage for a greater revelation of His power.
• Growth Through Challenge: Our faith is often deepened and strengthened through trials and moments of uncertainty. What seems like a setback can become an opportunity for God to demonstrate His incredible power and deepen our reliance on Him.
• Courage in Obedience: Jesus's resolve to go to Lazarus, despite the danger, reminds us of the importance of courageous obedience to God's call, even when it is difficult or costly.

Reflection

John 11:15 reveals the strategic mind and loving heart of Jesus. He saw beyond the immediate sorrow and danger, perceiving a greater purpose: to solidify the faith of His disciples and prepare them for the profound truth of His own victory over death. The subsequent miracle of raising Lazarus (John 11:43) would indeed serve as a powerful testament to His divine authority, leaving an indelible mark on those who witnessed it and ultimately leading to His own path to the cross and resurrection.