Commentary on John 11:3

Verse: John 11:3 - "So the sisters sent to him, saying, 'Lord, he whom you love is ill.'

Introduction

In John 11:3, we encounter a poignant moment that encapsulates the intimate relationship between Jesus and the family of Lazarus. The message from the sisters, Mary and Martha, conveys urgency and affection. Their appeal to Jesus reveals much about His character and the nature of their bond.

Contextual Background

This passage occurs in the midst of a narrative that addresses life, death, and resurrection. Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha, is gravely ill, and the sisters' message reflects their faith and trust in Jesus. They call Him "Lord", acknowledging His authority, and highlight His love for Lazarus, setting the scene for the miraculous events that will follow.

Insights from Matthew Henry

Message of Urgency: Matthew Henry emphasizes the urgent nature of the sisters' communication. They do not embellish their request but get straight to the point—Lazarus is “ill”. This brevity signifies a desperate plea for help.

Recognition of Love: Henry also underscores the phrase “he whom you love.” It communicates the deep affection and relational aspect between Jesus and Lazarus. This illustrates that divine love is personal and involved in human suffering—a theme prevalent throughout the Gospel narrative.

Insights from Albert Barnes

Appeal Based on Relationship: Albert Barnes points out that the sisters invoke Jesus' love as a basis for their request. This approach teaches believers that their relationship with Jesus can be a compelling factor in prayer. It suggests that love creates expectation in approaching God—praying in the-context-of His affections towards us.

Contrast of Illness and Love: Barnes notes the paradox here: amid illness, the relationship of love remains intact. This points to the understanding that love does not shield one from suffering. Thus, the recognition of suffering does not diminish the expression of love from God.

Insights from Adam Clarke

Role of the Sisters: Adam Clarke reflects on the role of Mary and Martha in this passage. Their initiative to reach out to Jesus is profound; they understand the significance of Jesus’ presence in their moment of need. Clarke interprets this as a model for believers to take their concerns directly to Christ.

Implication of the Illness: Clarke asserts that the illness of Lazarus serves a greater purpose within the narrative. It is an opportunity for Jesus to display His glory and power—not just to heal but to resurrect. This thematic element is critical in understanding the journey of faith and the divine agenda intertwined with human situations.

Theological Reflections

The message in John 11:3 invites deep theological reflection on the nature of prayer, love, and divine providence.

• The Role of Intercession: The act of sending for Jesus on behalf of another person is an act of intercession that holds significant weight in Christian belief. It mirrors the actions of those who pray for others in their time of need.
• Faith amidst Struggle: The sisters demonstrate faith despite the grim circumstances. They do not question Jesus' ability to act; instead, they trust in His love. This serves as a crucial lesson for believers facing trials.
• Divine Timing: The response of Jesus, as unfolds later in the chapter, emphasizes the importance of divine timing. Events may not occur as quickly as desired, reinforcing the importance of waiting on God's perfect will.

Application for Believers

There are multiple applications drawn from this single verse for pastors, theologians, and laypeople alike. It encourages believers in their prayer life, specifically the need to approach God with honesty regarding their needs and the awareness of His loving relationship with them.

• Prayer with Faith: Approach God with the assurance of His love, similar to how Mary and Martha did, expecting His response to their pleas.
• Understanding Love in Suffering: Recognize that love does not exempt one from hardship, but it can coexist with suffering, guiding believers through their trials.
• Hope in Divine Purpose: Understand that even in the direst circumstances, God's purpose can be at work, revealing His glory in unexpected ways.

Conclusion

John 11:3 encapsulates a profound truth about the intersection of love, suffering, and divine intervention. The response of Jesus to the sisters’ message sets the stage for one of the most significant resurrections in scripture, emphasizing that even in grave situations, hope remains as long as Christ is present. The teachings derived from this verse provide a rich source of inspiration and guidance for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of faith in the face of adversity.