This verse presents a profound moment in the narrative of the death and resurrection of Lazarus. Jesus expresses joy in not being present at Lazarus's death, indicating a deeper purpose in his apparent absence. Below, we explore interpretations from various public domain commentaries to gain a comprehensive understanding of this scripture.

Meaning and Interpretation

The message encapsulated in John 11:15 underscores the faith-building aspect of Jesus' actions. By allowing Lazarus to die before He arrives, Jesus orchestrates an event which ultimately reveals His divine authority, fostering belief in His disciples and others witnessing the miracle.

Insights from Matthew Henry

Faith in the Face of Grief: According to Henry, Jesus' statements indicate a direct relationship between His absence and the strengthening of belief among His followers. By not intervening immediately, Jesus allows both sorrow and faith to converge, culminating in a greater revelation of His glory.

Albert Barnes’ Commentary

Intentional Delay: Barnes focuses on the intentional nature of Jesus' delay in arriving at Lazarus's side. He notes that this strategic postponement was not accidental but rather designed to evoke deeper faith. Jesus acknowledges the sorrow but emphasizes that this will lead to a profound spiritual awakening for those who witness the subsequent miracle.

Adam Clarke’s Exegesis

Promotion of Belief: Adam Clarke posits that the delay allows the disciples and the grieving family to witness the miracle of resurrection in a way that directly challenges and deepens their understanding of Jesus as the Messiah. Clarke elaborates that it serves the dual purpose of revealing Jesus's divinity while also ministering to human emotions.

Themes and Lessons

• Absence Leading to Presence: The idea that sometimes God’s absence serves a greater purpose.
• Faith through Trials: How challenging situations can catalyze stronger faith.
• Divine Timing: The significance of God’s timing in our lives and how it can differ from human understanding.

Application to Daily Life

The lesson that emerges from John 11:15 can be applied to our daily lives by encouraging believers to trust in God’s plan, even in times of silence or absence. This verse reminds us that God works amidst our trials to ultimately enrich our faith.

Related Bible Verses

• John 11:4: "When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby."
• John 11:21-22: "Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee."
• Romans 8:28: "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."

Conclusion

John 11:15 serves as a profound teaching on the themes of faith, divine timing, and the purpose of trials in building belief. The insights provided through the commentaries from esteemed theologians offer a rich tapestry of understanding, emphasizing the importance of comprehending scripture not just for knowledge but for spiritual growth and application in the believer's life.