John 11:17-27
A Central Truth – John 10:10
Jesus not only gives resurrection and life. He is the resurrection and the life.
Introduction: The theology of the resurrection is well understood and embraced by not only the believing community but also those outside of genuine faith.
Transition: Let me first address Martha and Mary, who both were grieving.
- A Grieving Heart – 11:17-27
The Reality of Human Sorrow
Lazarus has died.
Martha and Mary are grieving.
Martha expresses both sorrow and faith: “Lord, if You had been here…”
Application: Even faithful people experience loss, pain, and questions.
Transition: In the midst of grieving and loss, difficulty, confusion, worry, and doubt, there is a life-giving saviour.
- A Life-Giving Saviour – 11:22-24
Martha still believes Jesus can act.
Jesus says, “Your brother will rise again.”
Martha thinks mainly of the future resurrection.
Application: We often believe in God’s future power, but struggle to trust His present power.
Question: What should we expect from a Christian life?
Application: A Christian life is centered on a relationship with Jesus Christ, characterized by inner transformation, service, and reliance on the Holy Spirit rather than human effort.
- Expect a life of ongoing growth in love, joy, and peace (Fruit of the Spirit),
- along with challenges, persecution, and a daily calling to deny self and follow Christ.
- The Revelation of Jesus’ Identity – 11:25
Jesus says, “I am the resurrection and the life.”
This is not just a promise about an event.
It is a declaration about a Person.
Understanding: Resurrection is found in Jesus Himself.
II. The Power of Faith in Christ – 11:25-26
“He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.”
“Whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.”
Understanding: Physical death is not the end for the believer. Eternal life begins now through faith in Christ.
III. The Call for Personal Response – 11:26-27
To this declaration and revelation, Jesus calls for a personal response.
Jesus asks, “Do you believe this?”
Martha responds with confession: “Yes, Lord, I believe…”
Progression: The passage moves from grief to truth to personal faith.
Application:
- Jesus meets people in their grief.
- Jesus offers more than comfort; He offers Himself.
- Jesus has authority over death.
- Belief in Jesus brings present spiritual life and future resurrection.
- Every listener must answer Jesus’ question: Do you believe this?
Question/Application/Conclusion: So what can we take away from the passage?
- Trust Jesus in seasons of loss.
- Rest in Christ’s power over death.
- Anchor your hope in a Person, not just a doctrine.
- Respond personally to Jesus with faith.
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