John 11:16

Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellowdisciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him.

Then {G3767} said {G2036} Thomas {G2381}, which {G3588} is called {G3004} Didymus {G1324}, unto his fellowdisciples {G4827}, Let us {G71} also {G2532} go {G71}, that {G2443} we {G2249} may die {G599} with {G3326} him {G846}.

Then T’oma (the name means “twin”) said to his fellow talmidim, “Yes, we should go, so that we can die with him!”

Then Thomas called Didymus said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go, so that we may die with Him.”

Thomas therefore, who is called Didymus, said unto his fellow-disciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him.

John 11:16 KJV Commentary

Context of John 11:16

This powerful statement from Thomas, often known as Didymus, comes at a critical juncture in Jesus' ministry. Jesus has just announced His intention to return to Bethany, a village near Jerusalem, to visit Lazarus, who is gravely ill (John 11:1). The disciples are well aware of the significant danger this poses, as Jewish leaders in Judea had recently sought to stone Jesus (John 10:31). Their initial reaction is one of caution and fear, questioning why Jesus would return to such a perilous place. It is in this atmosphere of apprehension that Thomas speaks, revealing a complex mix of pessimism and profound devotion.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Loyalty and Self-Sacrifice: Despite his characteristic pessimism, Thomas displays remarkable loyalty to Jesus. His words, "Let us also go, that we may die with him," reveal a willingness to face death alongside his Master. This highlights a deep commitment that transcends his fears, painting a picture of devoted discipleship.
  • Courage Amidst Fear: While the other disciples express hesitation, Thomas's statement, though somber, is an act of courage. He acknowledges the danger but chooses to embrace it, embodying a spirit of solidarity with Christ.
  • Misunderstanding of God's Plan: Thomas's statement, while brave, also shows a misunderstanding of Jesus' true purpose in going to Bethany. He anticipates death, not the glorious miracle of resurrection that Jesus is about to perform (John 11:4). This illustrates the disciples' ongoing process of grasping the full scope of Jesus' divine power and mission.
  • Thomas's Complex Character: This verse provides a crucial insight into Thomas beyond his later reputation as "doubting Thomas" (John 20:25). Here, he is resolute and willing to lay down his life, showcasing a profound albeit fatalistic devotion.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV text notes, "Thomas, which is called Didymus." Thomas is an Aramaic word meaning "twin," and Didymus is the Greek equivalent, also meaning "twin." This dual naming emphasizes his identity and perhaps even hints at a dual nature within his character – the one who doubts yet the one who is fiercely loyal.

Practical Application

John 11:16 challenges believers to consider the depth of their own commitment to Christ. Like Thomas, we are called to follow Jesus even when the path seems dangerous, uncertain, or filled with potential sacrifice. Our understanding of God's plan may be incomplete, and fear may be present, but this verse encourages us to choose loyal companionship with Christ. It reminds us that true discipleship often involves taking up our cross and facing perceived dangers with faith, trusting that God's ultimate purpose is always for His glory and our good, even if we can't fully see it at the moment.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • John 13:37

    Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake.

  • Matthew 10:3

    Philip, and Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James [the son] of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus;

  • John 21:2

    There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the [sons] of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples.

  • Mark 3:18

    And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the [son] of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Canaanite,

  • Matthew 26:35

    Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.

  • Luke 6:15

    Matthew and Thomas, James the [son] of Alphaeus, and Simon called Zelotes,

  • John 20:24

    But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.

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