John 11:56

Then sought they for Jesus, and spake among themselves, as they stood in the temple, What think ye, that he will not come to the feast?

John 11:56 (KJV)

Context

The chapter begins by introducing a man named Lazarus, who falls ill and eventually dies. Jesus, who is close to Lazarus and his sisters Mary and Martha, arrives in Bethany after Lazarus’ death. Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead, performing a miraculous sign of His power over death. This event brings much attention and leads many people, including the religious leaders, to believe in Jesus. Consequently, the Pharisees and chief priests become concerned about Jesus’ growing popularity and view Him as a threat.

Meaning

In this verse, people were actively seeking Jesus. The phrase “sought they for Jesus” indicates that many were looking for Him. Some were likely curious about His teachings and miracles, while others, particularly the religious leaders, were seeking to apprehend Him and put an end to His ministry. Their motives differed, but their search for Jesus demonstrates the significant impact He had on the people.

The people were speaking among themselves while standing in the temple. The temple was a central place for religious activities and gatherings, making it a suitable location for conversations about Jesus. The religious leaders had been monitoring Jesus’ activities closely, so the temple provided a space for them to discuss their concerns about Jesus’ possible attendance at the upcoming feast.

The verse ends with the question, “What think ye, that he will not come to the feast?” This refers to the Feast of Passover, a significant Jewish festival commemorating the deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. The Feast of Passover was an important event for Jewish people, and it involved the pilgrimage of many Jews to Jerusalem. Some of them were likely speculating about Jesus’ attendance at the feast, wondering whether He would come or not.

Biblical connections

The immediate context includes the religious leaders’ order that anyone knowing Jesus’ whereabouts should report it so they could arrest Him (John 11:57). This explains the tension behind the people’s question and highlights the public awareness of Jesus and the divided responses to Him.

Application

John 11:56 serves as a transitional verse, setting the stage for the events that follow. The religious leaders were actively seeking Jesus, and the question raised about His attendance at the Feast of Passover foreshadows the tension and confrontation that would occur in the subsequent chapters leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion.

This verse also highlights the division and differing opinions regarding Jesus among the people. Some recognized Him as the Messiah, while others viewed Him with suspicion or sought to eliminate Him. It invites reflection on how people respond to Jesus when His presence becomes a matter of public discussion and potential danger.