Commentary on John 11:34

Verse: "And said, Where have ye laid him? They said unto him, Lord, come and see."

Introduction

The verse John 11:34 serves as a powerful moment in the narrative of Lazarus' resurrection. In this scene, Jesus asks the mourners where they have laid Lazarus, and His inquiry reveals deep emotions and layers of meaning that can resonate through the centuries. This commentary will draw insights from classic public domain sources, including Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, each providing theological depth and pastoral application.

Contextual Background

This passage occurs in the broader context of the death and resurrection of Lazarus, a friend of Jesus. When Jesus learns of Lazarus' illness, He intentionally delays His visit, which leads to his death. Jesus arrives in Bethany four days after Lazarus has been buried, leading to profound grief among his sisters, Martha and Mary.

Exegesis and Analysis

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the human aspect of Jesus' inquiry. The question "Where have ye laid him?" indicates not only Jesus’ concern for the deceased but also a significant moment of empathy towards those in mourning. Henry points out that Jesus, being fully divine and fully human, demonstrates His compassion by sharing in the grief of those who loved Lazarus. He notes that this moment highlights Christ’s willingness to engage with human sorrow, thus illustrating His dual nature as God and man.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

Albert Barnes provides an analytical viewpoint about the importance of the question posed by Jesus. He notes that Jesus asks this question not out of ignorance but to prepare the mourners for the miraculous event that is about to unfold. Barnes emphasizes that the act of taking Jesus to the tomb signifies a deep expression of trust — a step of faith towards witnessing the divine intervention that is soon to come. This inquiry opens the door for the revelation of Christ's power over death, highlighting the theme of hope amidst despair.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke focuses on the theological implications of Jesus' question. He discusses how Jesus, by asking “Where have ye laid him?”, directly engages with the reality of death, a theme that resonates throughout scripture. Clarke points out that this moment allows for a public demonstration of faith; as the mourners bring Jesus to the grave, they are not only leading Him to the site of death but are also unknowingly ushering in the resurrection. Clarke’s insights encourage believers to acknowledge death and grief while holding onto the hope found in Christ's resurrection power.

Theological Insights

From these commentaries, several theological insights can be drawn:

• Empathy in Suffering: Jesus identifies deeply with human suffering, demonstrating that God understands and relates to our grief.
• Faith in the Face of Mourning: The act of leading Jesus to Lazarus’ tomb is a testament to the faith of the mourners, who are about to witness a profound miracle.
• Hope of Resurrection: This verse foreshadows the power of Christ over death, a critical theme in Christian theology which speaks to the hope and assurance of eternal life.

Pastoral Application

For pastors and church leaders, this verse offers a vital message in ministering to those who grieve. By reflecting on Jesus’ question, they can encourage congregants to bring their pain and loss to Christ, knowing that He meets them in their sorrow. It reinforces the notion that questions are often gateways to deeper understanding and faith.

Conclusion

John 11:34 encapsulates a profound moment in the narrative of Jesus’ ministry, showcasing His compassionate engagement with human suffering and providing a pivotal shift towards the demonstration of divine power. As believers reflect on this passage, they are reminded of the importance of facing grief and finding hope in Christ’s promises. Through the insights of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we can appreciate the depth and richness of this verse, which remains relevant for theological study and pastoral care today.