Commentary on John 11:39

Bible Verse: John 11:39 (KJV): "Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days."

Introduction

The account of Lazarus' resurrection, particularly John 11:39, provides profound insights not only into the nature of Jesus as the giver of life but also into human fears, doubts, and the process of faith. This verse serves as a pivotal moment where the human concern of Martha intersects with Christ's divine authority, embodying the theological themes of life, death, and the power of faith.

Contextual Overview

In the narrative leading up to this moment, Lazarus, a close friend of Jesus and brother to Martha and Mary, has died. Jesus, upon arriving in Bethany, confronts the grief of Martha and Mary, demonstrating both empathy and authority. The conversation escalates as Martha expresses her doubts about the appropriateness of removing the stone from the tomb, fearing the unwelcomed odor of decay. The implications of this moment are vast, and the verse opens up various avenues of theological reflection.

Theological Themes

• The Power of Jesus over Death: This event culminates in the powerful declaration of Jesus' authority over life and death. Jesus challenges the conventions of despair with His command to remove the stone, illustrating His ability to transcend human limitations.
• Faith and Doubt: Martha's hesitation signifies the struggle between faith and doubt. Her response reveals a common human sentiment—the fear of the tangible implications of death, which can at times overshadow belief in the miraculous.
• The Process of Miracles: The act of removing the stone signifies a step of faith. It prompts the question: What stones in our lives need to be rolled away to experience resurrection and new life?

Insights from Commentators

Matthew Henry

Henry notes the significance of Jesus instructing the people around Him to remove the stone, emphasizing that before the miracle of resurrection can be manifested, the physical barrier must first be addressed. Martha's concern regarding the decay exemplifies the limits of human understanding, reminding the reader that God's timing and methods often surpass our expectations.

Albert Barnes

Barnes highlights the importance of the statement made by Martha about Lazarus' condition, particularly the phrase "he stinketh." This statement points to the finality of death from a human perspective. Yet, Barnes emphasizes that Jesus' command illustrates how spiritual realities surpass physical conditions at all times, affirming His role as the resurrection and the life (John 11:25).

Adam Clarke

Clarke elaborates on the cultural practices surrounding death during this period. He cites the implications of the four days Lazarus spent in the tomb, arguing that Jewish belief held that the spirit hovered around the body for three days. Thus, the four-day wait underscored the utter hopelessness of the situation. Clarke highlights that Jesus intentionally delayed His coming to ensure that everyone recognized the miracle as entirely divine, leaving no room for human speculation.

Martha's Response and Its Implications

Martha's reluctance to obey Jesus' command draws attention to the internal conflict many believers face when confronted with God's call amidst overwhelming circumstances. Her statement, though rooted in concern, also unveils a lack of complete understanding of Jesus’ capabilities at that moment. This introduces a theme familiar to many faithful: the journey from disbelief to belief.

Lessons for the Faith Community

• Trust in God’s Power: The narrative urges believers to trust not only in God's ability to work miracles but also in His perfect timing. Personal faith often requires the courage to confront the uncomfortable ‘stones’ of our lives.
• Engaging with Doubt and Fear: Christians are called to be honest about uncertainties while also vocalizing their faith. Martha is honest about her fears, yet Jesus gently redirects her focus back to faith in Him.
• Community Participation in God’s Work: Jesus involves the community in the act of rolling away the stone. This reflects the communal nature of faith where believers are called to act in obedience and solidarity.

Conclusion

John 11:39 serves as a significant juncture within the narrative of Lazarus’ resurrection, illuminating the interplay between human fear and divine authority. Jesus’ command prompts believers to reconsider the barriers that inhibit faith and to engage actively in God’s transformative work. The insights from prominent commentators enrich our understanding and provide deeper wisdom that can fuel both theological reflection and practical application in the lives of pastors, theologians, and students of the Word.