John 11:46

But some of them went their ways to the Pharisees, and told them what things Jesus had done.

But {G1161} some {G5100} of {G1537} them {G846} went their ways {G565} to {G4314} the Pharisees {G5330}, and {G2532} told {G2036} them {G846} what things {G3739} Jesus {G2424} had done {G4160}.

But some of them went off to the P’rushim and told them what he had done.

But some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done.

But some of them went away to the Pharisees, and told them the things which Jesus had done.

John 11:46 captures a pivotal moment immediately following one of Jesus' most astounding miracles: the resurrection of Lazarus. This verse reveals the varied reactions of those who witnessed the event, setting the stage for increased opposition from the religious authorities.

Context

This verse directly follows the dramatic account of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead in John chapter 11. Many Jews who came to mourn with Mary and Martha, upon seeing this undeniable miracle, believed in Jesus (John 11:45). However, not all responded with faith. This verse highlights that "some of them"—a different group or perhaps those whose hearts remained hardened—chose to report Jesus' incredible deed to the Pharisees. The Pharisees were a powerful Jewish sect known for their strict adherence to the Law and their growing animosity towards Jesus, whom they viewed as a threat to their authority and traditions.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Division and Response to Jesus: The resurrection of Lazarus served as a powerful catalyst, forcing people to take a stand regarding Jesus. Some believed, while others, as seen here, actively opposed Him, driven by fear, jealousy, or a desire to maintain their existing religious structures. This illustrates the fundamental division that Jesus' presence often created.
  • Escalating Opposition: The act of reporting Jesus' miracle to the Pharisees was not an act of wonder but an act of accusation. These witnesses effectively became informers, leading directly to the Jewish leaders' council to plot Jesus' death, as detailed in the subsequent verses (John 11:47-53). This highlights the deep-seated resistance to truth and divine power when it challenges human authority.
  • The Unmistakable Nature of the Miracle: The fact that even those who reported Jesus acknowledged "what things Jesus had done" underscores the undeniable reality and public nature of Lazarus' resurrection. It was not a hidden event but a public display of divine power that could not be dismissed, only reacted to.

Practical Application

John 11:46 serves as a powerful reminder that even compelling evidence of God's work does not guarantee a positive response from everyone. People's hearts and their preconceived notions often dictate their reaction more than the evidence itself. It prompts us to consider:

  • How do we respond when confronted with undeniable acts of God's power or truth? Do we embrace them with faith, or do we allow fear or prejudice to harden our hearts?
  • It also prepares believers for the reality of opposition. Just as Jesus faced those who would report His good deeds for ill, followers of Christ may encounter similar resistance when living out their faith or sharing the Gospel (Matthew 10:22).
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 9:13

    ¶ They brought to the Pharisees him that aforetime was blind.

  • John 5:15

    The man departed, and told the Jews that it was Jesus, which had made him whole.

  • John 5:16

    And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.

  • John 12:37

    ¶ But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him:

  • Luke 16:30

    And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.

  • Luke 16:31

    And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

  • Acts 5:25

    Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.

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