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John 11:4
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
This sickness is not unto death - Not to final privation of life at this time; but a temporary death shall be now permitted, that the glory of God may appear in the miracle of his resurrection. It is very likely that this verse contains the message which Christ sent back, by the person whom the afflicted sisters had sent to him; and this, no doubt, served much to strengthen their confidence, though their faith must have been greatly exercised by the death of their brother: for when this took place, though they buried him, yet they believed, even then, probably on the ground of this message, that Jesus might raise him from the dead. See Joh 11:22.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death--to result in death. but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified thereby--that is, by this glory of God. (See Greek.) Remarkable language this, which from creature lips would have been intolerable. It means that the glory of GOD manifested in the resurrection of dead Lazarus would be shown to be the glory, personally and immediately, of THE SON.
John Gill Bible Commentary
When Jesus heard that,.... That his friend Lazarus was sick, he said; either to his disciples, or to the messenger or messengers that brought the account to him, and that on purpose to yield some relief to the afflicted family when it should be reported to them: this sickness is not unto death; it was to issue in death, but not in death which was to continue, or under which Lazarus was to continue till the general resurrection; for though he should die, yet he should be so quickly restored again to life, that it scarcely deserved the name of death. The Jews distinguish between sickness and sickness; there are some that are sick, the greater part of whom are, "for life"; and there are others that are "sick", the greater part of whom are, "for death" (z), or are sick unto death, whose sickness issues in death; but this of Lazarus's was not to be unto death, at least not finally: but for the glory of God; of his power and goodness in raising him again: that the Son of God might be glorified thereby; that is, that his glory, as the Son of God, might be made manifest in the resurrection of him from the dead; see Joh 2:11. (z) T. Bab. Kiddushin, fol. 71. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:4 Jesus’ response paralleled his words about the man born blind (9:1-5). Jesus already knew that Lazarus was dead (11:14); he was talking about Lazarus’ resurrection (11:43), which would bring glory to God.
John 11:4
The Death of Lazarus
3So the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Lord, the one You love is sick.”4When Jesus heard this, He said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Glory of God - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks2.6K39:39Glory Of GodEXO 40:341KI 8:10MAT 6:33JHN 1:14JHN 11:4JHN 11:40HEB 10:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of reflecting the glory of God in our family relationships. He highlights how Jesus commends sincerity but condemns hypocrisy. The speaker also points out two specific instances in the Bible where Jesus mentions the glory of God: when he says that a sickness is not unto death but for the glory of God, and when he tells someone that if they believe, they will see the glory of God. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the priority that governed Jesus' life and work, and how his work on the cross has completed everything necessary for our eternal salvation.
Auferstehung Israels (With German Translation)
By Art Katz2.3K1:01:30Glory Of GodHOS 5:14MAT 6:33JHN 11:4JHN 11:6In this sermon, the speaker begins by praying for a resurrection event through the spoken word. He emphasizes the need for the church to reach a place of apostolic and prophetic maturity. The speaker then introduces the passage from John 11:1-4, which marks one of the final episodes of Jesus' earthly ministry. He highlights the significance of resurrection as the ultimate testimony of God and distinguishes it as the defining factor between the true church and the apostate church at the end of the age. The speaker challenges the audience to not only believe in the doctrine of resurrection but to live in the power of that life.
Los Angeles Conference #3
By T. Austin-Sparks1.8K41:32ConferenceJHN 7:39JHN 11:4JHN 12:16JHN 12:23JHN 17:1JHN 17:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the theme of hopelessness and impossibility in various situations. He refers to the story of Jesus feeding the five thousand, where the disciples believed it was impossible to provide enough bread for such a large crowd. The speaker also mentions the story of the man at the pool of Bethesda, who had been hopeless and unable to be healed for 38 years until Jesus intervened. The sermon highlights the importance of having our lives aligned with Jesus and the hope and transformation that comes from that alignment. The speaker concludes by referencing Ephesians 3:21 and emphasizing that Jesus came to bring hope and realization to our broken lives.
(John) the Mighty Miracle
By Willie Mullan1.4K1:02:56MiracleJHN 1:47JHN 2:1JHN 5:1JHN 6:5JHN 11:4JHN 11:25JHN 11:33JHN 11:39JHN 11:43In this sermon, the preacher discusses various instances where Jesus displayed his knowledge and power. He mentions how Jesus knew all about Nathaniel before they even met, and how he knew the history and details of different individuals' lives. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus is willing to work with others and involve them in his miracles, as seen in the examples of filling water pots and distributing food to the multitude. The sermon also focuses on the story of Lazarus, highlighting Jesus' statement that Lazarus is sleeping and his intention to awaken him.
Plain Old Gospel Message Path of Reward - Lake Johanna Conference
By Vance Havner1.2K39:45Gospel MessageAMO 7:13MAT 11:3JHN 1:29JHN 11:4JHN 11:43In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the life of Tanny Crosby, who could have grumbled about being blind but instead chose to dig wells of blessings for others through her hymns. The preacher emphasizes the importance of leaving a well in the valley for others to find refreshment. He also highlights the timeless truths of the Gospel, reminding listeners that despite advancements in technology and exploration, sin, judgment, and salvation remain unchanged. The preacher shares his personal journey of struggling with preaching a modernized gospel and eventually returning to the old truths of the faith.
The Appearing of Resurrection and the Giving of Power
By Newman Sze8201:22:11MAT 28:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 24:44JHN 20:19JHN 21:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Let Him That Is Healed Glorify God
By Andrew Murray0Glorifying GodHealingPSA 30:2ISA 53:5MAT 9:35MRK 16:17JHN 9:3JHN 11:4ACT 3:81CO 6:19JAS 5:141PE 2:24Andrew Murray emphasizes the importance of glorifying God after experiencing healing, contrasting divine healing with healing through earthly remedies. He argues that while sickness may lead to a deeper communion with God, true healing is a manifestation of God's power and should inspire a profound response of gratitude and worship. Murray encourages those healed by faith to recognize their healing as a divine act that transforms their lives into temples for God. The joy of healing is not just physical but also spiritual, leading to a life dedicated to glorifying God in all aspects.
The Knife of the Heavenly Surgeon
By C.H. Spurgeon0SufferingGod's SovereigntyPSA 103:13PSA 119:71ISA 53:5JHN 11:4ROM 8:281CO 10:132CO 1:32TI 1:7HEB 12:6JAS 1:2C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that sickness has a divine limit set by God, who uses it not for destruction but for the instruction and growth of His people. He reassures that every aspect of our suffering is under God's sovereign control, designed to match our strength and purpose. Spurgeon highlights that God's afflictions are measured with precision and compassion, ensuring that we are never overwhelmed beyond what we can bear. The message conveys deep comfort in knowing that God, like a skilled surgeon, administers healing with care and wisdom, never inflicting pain without necessity.
Jesus in the Chamber of Sickness
By Octavius Winslow0Hope in SicknessSufferingPSA 34:18ISA 41:10JHN 11:4ROM 8:282CO 12:9PHP 1:212TI 4:7JAS 5:141PE 5:10REV 21:4Octavius Winslow emphasizes that sickness, while painful, is a profound blessing for believers, as it brings them closer to Jesus and deepens their faith. He reassures the sick that their suffering is not in vain, but rather a preparation for greater service and spiritual awakening. Winslow illustrates this with the story of Wycliffe, who, despite being near death, declared his commitment to his faith and went on to serve even more powerfully. He encourages believers to see their sickness as a sacred space where God is present, offering hope and eternal life. Ultimately, he reminds them that even in death, they are promised life eternal with the Lord.
The Glory
By T. Austin-Sparks0God's GloryGrace in Suffering1KI 8:11ISA 46:13LUK 2:14JHN 11:4ACT 7:21CO 1:27EPH 5:27HEB 8:51PE 1:5REV 21:11T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the ultimate purpose of God's works and ways is His glory, which governs everything from creation to the establishment of the Church. He illustrates how God's glory is evident in the Old Testament through significant events and figures, such as Abraham and Moses, and culminates in the New Testament with the birth, resurrection, and exaltation of Jesus Christ. Sparks highlights that the Christian life begins, progresses, and culminates in glory, and that grace is the foundation of this glory. He encourages believers to recognize their vocation as vindicating the living presence of Christ in their lives, especially through suffering and grace. Ultimately, all things are for God's glory, and believers are called to acknowledge and proclaim this truth.
How to See the Glory of God
By T. Austin-Sparks0Commitment to God's WillThe Glory of GodMAT 3:17MAT 12:47MRK 10:17JHN 1:14JHN 5:19JHN 11:4JHN 11:40JHN 14:24ACT 16:6REV 21:11T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the ultimate priority of Jesus' life and ministry was the glory of God, as illustrated in John 11. He explains that Jesus' commitment to this glory governed every aspect of His life, from His inner relationship with the Father to His conduct, works, and timing. Sparks encourages believers to reflect on whether their lives truly glorify God, highlighting that true glory comes from aligning with God's will and recognizing the finished work of Christ. The sermon culminates in the assurance that seeing God's glory is not a loss but the ultimate fulfillment in life.
Glory Only in the Newness of Resurrection Life
By T. Austin-Sparks0God's GloryResurrection LifeISA 53:11JHN 2:11JHN 3:10JHN 4:14JHN 11:4JHN 11:402CO 1:8PHP 3:101PE 2:71PE 4:17T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the eleventh chapter of John encapsulates the culmination of Jesus' ministry, revealing that God's ultimate purpose is glory, achieved through the resurrection life. He discusses the necessity of brokenness and travail in reaching God's ends, illustrating that true knowledge of God comes through suffering and surrender. The sermon highlights that Jesus is in control of every situation, even when it appears otherwise, and that the old creation must die for the new life to emerge. Sparks encourages believers to commit fully to God, understanding that His ways may be beyond human comprehension but are always directed towards His glory. Ultimately, he reassures that through trials and tribulations, believers will witness the glory of God manifested in their lives.
The Raising of Lazarus
By C.I. Scofield0JHN 11:4C.I. Scofield delves into the profound analysis of the meeting of Jesus with Martha and Mary, leading to the resurrection of Lazarus and the blessed result that followed. The heart of the lesson lies in the deeper meanings revealed by Jesus himself, emphasizing the purpose of the miracle to strengthen believers' faith in Him as the resurrection and the life, showcasing His divine power and glory. The resurrection of Lazarus not only demonstrated Christ's deity but also served as a testimony for bystanders to believe in Him, ultimately pointing to the divine motive behind miracles and the new birth.
The Resurrection of the Dead
By H.J. Vine0JHN 11:4JHN 11:25ROM 1:1ROM 8:291CO 15:121CO 15:542CO 5:1PHP 3:21REV 1:18H.J. Vine preaches on the significance of Jesus Christ being declared as the Son of God with power through His resurrection from the dead, emphasizing the importance of this truth for believers' faith and assurance. The sermon delves into the profound implications of Christ's resurrection, highlighting how it confirms His identity as the Son of God and the Resurrection and the Life. It challenges believers to firmly hold onto the truth of resurrection, which is foundational to the Christian faith and essential for understanding God's power and glory.
Day 208, John 11
By David Servant0JHN 5:28JHN 11:4JHN 11:35JHN 11:44ROM 12:15David Servant delves into the story of Lazarus' resurrection, highlighting how Jesus' delay in coming to Lazarus was a test of faith for Mary and Martha, and how their belief in Jesus' power over death was ultimately rewarded with Lazarus' miraculous resurrection. Despite Jesus' love for Lazarus, his sickness was not a reflection of Jesus' lack of love, but rather a test of faith that could ultimately bring glory to God through healing. The resurrection of Lazarus serves as a powerful testament to Jesus' divinity and his ability to offer eternal life to those who believe in Him, foreshadowing the even greater resurrection to come in the future.
Jesus Raises Lazarus From the Dead John 11:1-57
By David Servant0JHN 5:19JHN 11:4JHN 11:9JHN 11:25JHN 11:50David Servant preaches on the story of Lazarus, highlighting how Jesus was glorified not by Lazarus's sickness but by his resurrection, emphasizing that God's power is displayed in healing and restoration. Jesus intentionally delayed going to Bethany to perform a miracle that would reveal His divinity and power to those with open hearts. Through Lazarus's resurrection, Jesus demonstrated His authority over death and foreshadowed the eternal life given to believers. Jesus' statement about being the resurrection and the life signifies the hope and promise of eternal life for all who believe in Him, showcasing His divine power and authority.
Principles of Faith
By John Follette0JHN 11:4John Follette emphasizes the importance of understanding and obeying the spiritual laws that govern our Christian experience, comparing them to the demanding laws of the natural world. Through the story of Lazarus, Jesus teaches Martha the process of faith, focusing on believing in the specific word He has spoken rather than a general declaration of faith. Faith must attach itself to the present 'Word of the Lord' for God's power to be demonstrated. It is crucial to seek and believe the exact promise that God speaks to our hearts, rather than selecting promises based on our limited understanding, to strengthen and grow our faith.
The Throne - the Living Ones and the Wheels
By T. Austin-Sparks0PSA 66:18ISA 6:3ISA 33:14EZK 1:28HAB 2:14JHN 11:4ROM 8:28REV 1:14REV 4:1T. Austin-Sparks delves into the profound symbolism of Ezekiel's prophecies, focusing on the visions of the Throne in Heaven, the Cherubim, and the wheels. The Cherubim symbolize holiness and life, emphasizing the inseparable connection between holiness and life, and their role in proclaiming the holiness of God's Throne. The wheels represent movement with purpose, signifying the energetic and active nature of God's Throne in fulfilling His divine purposes. The sermon highlights the importance of holiness in God's government and the perfect intelligence of His Throne, which operates with complete knowledge and vision, seeking to bring glory through holiness.
What Is Glory?
By T. Austin-Sparks0GEN 1:2JHN 1:3JHN 2:11JHN 11:4JHN 17:5ACT 7:21CO 2:8COL 1:16HEB 2:91PE 4:141PE 5:4T. Austin-Sparks concludes the 'Horizons' series by emphasizing the theme of glory in the Bible, highlighting how each Person of the Divine Trinity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - is associated with glory as a descriptive designation. Glory is expressed through radiance, light, and splendor, often seen in the transformation of individuals and the Church. The basis of glory lies in the satisfaction of God's nature, reflecting His holiness, righteousness, truth, and love. The ultimate fulfillment of glory is found in Christ, who wholly satisfied God's nature through His incarnation, life, death, and resurrection, leading to the restoration of glory through redemption.
The Glory of God in Resurrection
By T. Austin-Sparks0ResurrectionDivine LifeISA 11:11EZK 37:12JHN 11:4JHN 11:14ROM 6:62CO 1:92CO 12:9GAL 3:28PHP 4:131TI 6:12T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the glory of God revealed through the resurrection of Lazarus, illustrating that Lazarus's death was part of God's divine plan to demonstrate His power over death and to establish a new Israel. The sermon highlights that Jesus allowed Lazarus to die to show that death is not the final word, and that true life comes from resurrection, not healing of the old nature. Sparks connects this to the broader narrative of Israel's rejection and the emergence of a new creation in Christ, where believers, regardless of their past, are united in His resurrection life. He encourages believers to live by the power of resurrection life, even amidst physical and spiritual weaknesses, as this is where God's glory is most evident.
The Spiritual Purpose and It's Attainment
By John Follette0PSA 40:7PRO 29:18JHN 4:34JHN 11:4JHN 11:43JHN 17:4ACT 16:71CO 10:31COL 3:171PE 4:11John Follette emphasizes the importance of knowing the purpose and vision in our daily lives, cautioning against carrying over careless habits from the past that may hinder the manifestation of God in our new life. He highlights the need to align our actions with God's will and purpose, focusing on glorifying God in all that we do. Follette stresses the significance of spiritual living governed by divine principles and the restraint or constraint that a clear vision provides. He encourages surrendering to God's will, trusting Him to shape our lives into a divine pattern that reflects His glory.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
This sickness is not unto death - Not to final privation of life at this time; but a temporary death shall be now permitted, that the glory of God may appear in the miracle of his resurrection. It is very likely that this verse contains the message which Christ sent back, by the person whom the afflicted sisters had sent to him; and this, no doubt, served much to strengthen their confidence, though their faith must have been greatly exercised by the death of their brother: for when this took place, though they buried him, yet they believed, even then, probably on the ground of this message, that Jesus might raise him from the dead. See Joh 11:22.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death--to result in death. but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified thereby--that is, by this glory of God. (See Greek.) Remarkable language this, which from creature lips would have been intolerable. It means that the glory of GOD manifested in the resurrection of dead Lazarus would be shown to be the glory, personally and immediately, of THE SON.
John Gill Bible Commentary
When Jesus heard that,.... That his friend Lazarus was sick, he said; either to his disciples, or to the messenger or messengers that brought the account to him, and that on purpose to yield some relief to the afflicted family when it should be reported to them: this sickness is not unto death; it was to issue in death, but not in death which was to continue, or under which Lazarus was to continue till the general resurrection; for though he should die, yet he should be so quickly restored again to life, that it scarcely deserved the name of death. The Jews distinguish between sickness and sickness; there are some that are sick, the greater part of whom are, "for life"; and there are others that are "sick", the greater part of whom are, "for death" (z), or are sick unto death, whose sickness issues in death; but this of Lazarus's was not to be unto death, at least not finally: but for the glory of God; of his power and goodness in raising him again: that the Son of God might be glorified thereby; that is, that his glory, as the Son of God, might be made manifest in the resurrection of him from the dead; see Joh 2:11. (z) T. Bab. Kiddushin, fol. 71. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:4 Jesus’ response paralleled his words about the man born blind (9:1-5). Jesus already knew that Lazarus was dead (11:14); he was talking about Lazarus’ resurrection (11:43), which would bring glory to God.