John 11:46

Context:Before diving into the verse, let’s set the context. In John 11, we find the account of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. Lazarus was the brother of Mary and Martha, and he had been dead for four days. Jesus arrived at the tomb and, with a commanding voice, called Lazarus forth, and he came back to life. This miracle astounded many who witnessed it.

The Reaction:After Lazarus was raised, some of the people present went their ways to the Pharisees, the religious leaders of that time, and reported what they had seen. This verse reveals two key aspects: the people’s response to the miracle and their decision to inform the Pharisees about Jesus’ actions.

Witnessing the Miracles:The people who witnessed the raising of Lazarus couldn’t contain their amazement. They were overwhelmed by the power and authority displayed by Jesus. The news of this incredible event spread quickly, and some felt compelled to share it with the Pharisees, likely to let them know about Jesus’ actions and possibly provoke a response from the religious authorities.

Religious Leaders’ Reaction:The Pharisees were influential figures who held power and authority in matters of religious observance. However, they were also threatened by Jesus’ growing popularity and the signs and miracles He performed. They were concerned that Jesus’ miracles might lead to a greater following and eventually challenge their authority. As we continue reading the subsequent verses in John 11, we see the Pharisees’ plot to kill Jesus intensify.

Application:There are a few lessons we can draw from this verse:

• Witnessing God’s work:The people who witnessed the miracle of Lazarus’ resurrection were eager to share the news. When God works in our lives or performs miracles around us, we should be excited to share His goodness and faithfulness with others.
• The Pharisees’ response:The Pharisees’ response reminds us that resistance to the work of God is possible, even from those who hold positions of religious authority. Sometimes, people’s hearts are hardened, and they may react negatively to the message of Christ. As followers of Jesus, we should be prepared to face opposition and respond with love and grace.
• The importance of discernment:It is essential to discern the motives behind our actions. While the people who informed the Pharisees might have had genuine intentions, we should always evaluate whether our words and actions are aligned with God’s purposes and the spreading of His kingdom.

Remember, studying the Bible in context and exploring the surrounding verses can provide a deeper understanding of the message conveyed.