John 11 - Africa Study Bible

Facing Danger for the Glory of God • John 11:1-16

Jesus’ friend Lazarus was dead. Jesus did not need to return to Judea, where Lazarus had lived. But he decided to go anyway, even though he would be walking straight into danger. His dis­ciples were not convinced. “Only a few days ago the people in Judea were trying to stone you. Are you going there again?” (John 11:8).

Months earlier, Jesus faced the same danger, but he made a different decision. In John 7, his brothers urged him to go to Jerusalem, but he refused. What influenced Jesus’ different decisions? His decisions were made out of the right motives and because he knew God’s plan for him.

In what situations should you voluntarily face danger as a Christian? In what situations should you avoid danger? Jesus’ motive of going to Judea was to raise Lazarus from the dead so that God would be glorified. His brothers’ motive for urging Jesus to go to Jerusalem was for him to show off. The principle we find from the two accounts is: It pleases God when we engage in activities that bring glory to God no matter the danger. Do not do anything to glorify yourself. But when you do something for the glory of God, he watches over you, no matter the danger.

This incident also illustrates the nature of wisdom. Wisdom is not living by a specific formula where every decision is dictated by the circumstances. Wisdom is evaluating every circumstance and making the proper decision based upon what is best in that particular situation. There is a time to go to Jerusalem, and there is a time to stay away from Jerusalem. The wise believer, like Jesus, will know the right time to go or stay.

Family is very important in our cultures. People live together in community, and they are concerned when others have difficulties. Human life is sacred, and suicide is rare. When a parent is ill, the family tries everything to save his or her life. Some perform ceremonies and offer sacrifices to idols in an effort to cancel a bad charm.

When Mary and Martha knew that Lazarus was very sick, they immediately sent for Jesus (John 11:3). They did not look for help from an idol. They never doubted Christ’s power. Then the Lord returned to bring their beloved brother back to life.

This true story of Mary and Martha teaches us where to take our own needs and problems. It teaches us that Jesus can solve any problem. Sometimes he works supernaturally, as he did in this case. At other times, Jesus uses natural means such as the times he drove the money changers from the Temple (Matthew 21:12). Our destinies are in God’s hands (Psalm 31:14-15). Like Mary and Martha, let us come to Jesus to receive help in all areas of our lives.

Death Is Powerless • John 11:25-26

Death is a reality, and many people believe it is the ultimate power. Whether using traditional means, such as caring for our health or using modern technology, we can only make our lives a little longer. We cannot escape death. That is why death is dreaded and feared. Jesus makes it clear that he has power over death and life. He is the resurrection and life. Because he is the Creator, he has power to give life. If we put our trust in Jesus, we will have life eternal. Even when we die, he will raise us up at the resurrection. This is the hope we have in believing in Jesus Christ. What will prevent you from believing and trusting in Jesus? If you want to experience eternal life, you must believe in him today!

Athanasius (c. ad 296–373) was bishop in Alexandria, Egypt. He was called “Pillar of the Church” and “Father of Orthodoxy.” He wrote:

Jesus said to Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life.” Jesus is the voice that awakens the dead. He is the good odour that takes away the foul odour of death. He is the voice of joy that takes away sorrow and grief. Jesus is the comfort of those who grieve. Those who belong to him are given joy by him. He is the joy of the whole world. Jesus makes his friends glad and he rejoices with them, for he says, “I am the bread of life” (John 6:35).

It Is All Right to Cry • John 11:35-36

The way Jesus responded to his friend’s death shows that he is like us. He had friends who meant a lot to him, and the loss of one of those friends caused him to cry.

It is very rare for African men, especially leaders, to cry openly. African men usually do not share their emotions freely. It is considered a sign of weakness. But Jesus—our Lord, Messiah, Saviour, and God—could cry. Christ is our example. His tears show that he identifies with us in our sorrows. It is all right to cry. In fact, it is good. Research has shown that crying helps release stress and heals from trauma. It communicates our heartbreak to others, allowing them to help us bear our pain.

Bring your emotions to the feet of Jesus. He understands how you feel because he had many of the same feelings. If he could weep, so can we.