John 11:4

When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.

John 11:4 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of the account of the resurrection of Lazarus, one of the most significant miracles performed by Jesus during His earthly ministry. The story begins in John 11:1-3, where Lazarus, a dear friend of Jesus, is seriously ill. His sisters, Mary and Martha, send word to Jesus, informing Him of their brother’s condition. It is in response to this message that Jesus makes the statement found in John 11:4.

Meaning

When Jesus hears about Lazarus’ illness, He declares, “This sickness is not unto death.” This statement may seem puzzling since Lazarus does eventually die. However, Jesus’ words have a more profound meaning. Jesus knew that Lazarus’ sickness would not end in permanent death but would result in something greater. It sets the stage for a miraculous demonstration of His power over death and the glory of God to be revealed.

Jesus continues by saying, “but for the glory of God.” Jesus knew that Lazarus’ sickness and subsequent resurrection would bring glory to God. The raising of Lazarus would serve as a powerful sign and testament to Jesus’ divinity and His ability to conquer death. Through this miracle, God’s glory would be manifested, and people would witness the power and authority of Jesus.

Jesus concludes by stating that the purpose of Lazarus’ sickness and resurrection was “that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.” The resurrection of Lazarus would provide an opportunity for Jesus, as the Son of God, to display His power and bring glory to His name. It would be a confirmation of His identity as the Messiah and the Son of God, leading people to believe in Him and His message.

Biblical connections

This verse highlights the central themes of the story of Lazarus’ resurrection: the triumph over death, the glory of God, and the divinity of Jesus. It serves as a precursor to the miraculous events that unfold in the subsequent verses, where Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead, demonstrating His power as the resurrection and the life (John 11:25).

Application

This verse teaches that God can use even illness and suffering for His glory and for the revelation of His Son. When we face trials, we can trust that God has a purpose beyond our immediate circumstances. Just as Jesus used Lazarus’ sickness to display His glory, God can work through our difficulties to reveal His power and love. This truth encourages us to look beyond our present struggles and to place our faith in the One who has authority over life and death.

Reflection

John 11:4 captures Jesus’ response to the news of Lazarus’ sickness, revealing His purpose in allowing it. The ultimate aim was to bring glory to God and to manifest Jesus’ identity as the Son of God through the resurrection of Lazarus. This verse sets the stage for the extraordinary miracle that follows, emphasizing Jesus’ power over death and His divine nature.