Commentary on John 11:15
John 11:15: "And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him."
Introduction
This verse occurs in the context of the narrative surrounding the death of Lazarus and demonstrates the profound theological implications underlying Jesus's actions. The statement contains nuances about belief, divine timing, and the larger purpose of miracles.
The Context of John 11
In this chapter, Jesus receives news of Lazarus's illness but chooses to delay His visit. This delay is crucial for illustrating the significance of His forthcoming miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead. The interplay between human expectation and divine intention becomes a central theme, as noted by numerous scholars.
Insights from Public Domain Commentaries
Matthew Henry's Commentary
Matthew Henry emphasizes the idea that Jesus's gladness about not being present at Lazarus's death was rooted in the greater purpose of fostering belief among His disciples. He notes that the delay served to amplify the miracle’s significance, as it would be evident to all that Lazarus was indeed dead, thereby validating Jesus's divine authority when He raised him.
- Purpose of Delayed Action: Henry articulates that Jesus's absence was not apathetic but purposeful, aimed at encouraging faith. This underscores a common theme in John's Gospel where miracles serve both as signs and invitations to deeper belief.
- Disciples' Growth: According to Henry, the disciples' journey in understanding is as much a part of the miracle as Lazarus's resurrection. Their faith would be tested and ultimately strengthened through these experiences.
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible
Albert Barnes provides a deeper exploration into the theological implications of Jesus's statement in John 11:15. He notes the dual purpose of the event: first, to elevate the faith of His followers, and second, to reveal His messianic identity more clearly.
- Gladness in Belief: Barnes interprets Jesus's gladness not as emotional detachment but rather as joy about the ultimate outcome – that His followers would witness His glory and power over death. He stresses the biblical principle that hardships often precede the unveiling of God’s work.
- Faith as a Primary Theme: Barnes addresses the importance of belief in Jesus’s mission. The miracle of raising Lazarus becomes a pivotal moment that not only reaffirms Jesus’s power but also serves as a preparatory sign for His own resurrection.
Adam Clarke's Commentary
Adam Clarke interprets John 11:15 with emphasis on the human dimensions of Jesus’s experience. He discusses how Jesus relates to human sorrow and the divine purpose intertwined with these earthly experiences.
- Sympathy and Sovereignty: Clarke points out that Jesus’s gladness is juxtaposed with His deep compassion for human suffering. His choice to raise Lazarus is both a display of His sovereign power and His empathetic engagement with the bereaved.
- Greater Works: Clarke reflects on the phrase "to the intent ye may believe," suggesting that the purpose of miracles extends beyond the immediate event to a larger vision of faith and discipleship. He identifies this duality as a common trait in Jesus’s ministry.
Theological Implications
John 11:15 represents a significant teaching moment about faith and its relationship to divine acts. Various commentaries highlight several key theological implications:
- The Nature of Belief: The call to believe is underscored throughout the chapter. Jesus uses the situation to challenge His disciples to look beyond the immediate reality of death to the hope of resurrection and eternal life.
- God’s Timing: The delay in Jesus's arrival illustrates a principle of divine timing. Often in our lives, delays can lead to deeper revelations of God’s intention and encouragement towards belief.
- Impact of Miracles: The raising of Lazarus serves as a foreshadowing of Jesus’s own resurrection, indicating a theme of victory over death that permeates the Gospel. Commentators agree that this foreshadowing is meant to assure believers of their own future hope.
Conclusion
John 11:15 encapsulates not just a moment in the life of Jesus but a deep theological truth about belief, divine purpose, and the promise of resurrection. The insights from various public domain commentaries remind readers of the complexity and richness found within Scripture. Through the lens of this verse, pastors, students, theologians, and scholars are encouraged to reflect upon the character of Christ, the nature of faith, and the meaning of hope in the face of human experience.
