John 11:15

And I am glad for your sakes, that I was not there (to the intent yee may beleeue:) Neuerthelesse, let vs goe vnto him. John 11:15 (KJV)

John 11 records the account of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. Lazarus was the brother of Martha and Mary, and he fell ill. Jesus received news of Lazarus’ illness but deliberately delayed His arrival. When Jesus finally reached Bethany, Lazarus had already been dead for four days. Martha went out to meet Jesus, and the Gospel records both Jesus’ compassionate response—”And He wept”—and His declaration of gladness that He was not present, so that the disciples might believe.

In this verse Jesus expresses gladness that He was not present when Lazarus died, stating that the purpose is that His disciples may believe. At the same time He demonstrates deep compassion by weeping over Lazarus’ death. His sorrow underscores His humanity and love for those who mourn, while His gladness sets the stage for a greater miracle—raising Lazarus back to life. This dual expression serves to strengthen the faith of His disciples and to inspire belief in others, providing evidence of His divine power.

Faith and belief are central themes throughout the Gospel of John. Jesus’ actions invite His disciples to trust in Him as the Son of God, and the raising of Lazarus serves as a decisive sign that deepens their faith and confirms Jesus’ identity as the Messiah. By witnessing this extraordinary miracle, the disciples have their faith strengthened and their belief in Jesus as the Messiah confirmed.

Jesus’ delay in coming to Lazarus’ aid may have seemed puzzling and frustrating to those who loved Lazarus. However, the timing allowed for a more profound display of His power and glory. This reminds believers to trust in God’s timing, even when circumstances seem difficult or unclear, because God always has a purpose.

The account of Lazarus’ resurrection encourages us to have faith and believe in Jesus’ power to bring life to dead situations. Just as Jesus called Lazarus out of the tomb, He can bring renewal to areas of our lives that feel hopeless. This passage also teaches us to trust in God’s timing, confident that His plans surpass our understanding and work all things together for our good.