Understanding John 11:40

John 11:40 states, "Jesus said to her, 'Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?'" This verse encapsulates a profound moment in the narrative of Jesus’ ministry, particularly surrounding the death and resurrection of Lazarus. To gain a deeper understanding of this verse, we draw on insights from reputable public domain commentaries by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke.

Contextual Overview

This passage takes place right before the resurrection of Lazarus. Mary and Martha, the sisters of Lazarus, were mourning the death of their brother. This scene is pivotal as it demonstrates the relationship between faith and the revelation of God’s glory.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Matthew Henry highlights the importance of belief in witnessing God's glory. He emphasizes that faith acts as a prerequisite to experiencing divine truths and miracles. Henry points out that Jesus underscored faith’s role in perceiving the more profound realities of God’s work.

• Albert Barnes' Exposition:

  Albert Barnes explains that Jesus is reassuring Martha that her expressions of faith will lead to witnessing God's miraculous power. Barnes notes that the “glory of God” refers specifically to the manifestation of God’s authority and ability to raise Lazarus from the dead, illustrating His mastery over life and death. This act serves as a testimony to the divine nature of Christ.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Adam Clarke elaborates on the relational aspect of Jesus' statement to Martha. He posits that the promise of seeing God's glory is not only about external witnessing but also about internal understanding and revelation. Clarke argues that true belief involves a profound trust in God’s plans, even amid despair and confusion.

Key Themes in John 11:40

The main themes presented in this verse include:

• Faith and Belief: The call to belief as a pathway to seeing God’s glory.
• Divine Revelation: The manifestation of God's glory through miraculous events.
• Jesus’ Authority: Reinforcement of Jesus as the Son of God and His control over life and death.

Lessons for Bible Study

This verse provides valuable lessons for individual and group Bible study:

• Bible Study Groups:

  Encourage discussion on how belief shapes our understanding of God's actions in our lives.

• Applying Scripture:

  Reflect on how Jesus invites us to exercise faith even in challenging situations and what this means in practical terms.

• Bible Study Tools:

  Use commentaries, like those of Henry, Barnes, and Clarke, for a broader context and deeper insights.

Cross References

This verse corresponds with other significant scriptures that enhance its interpretation:

• John 14:13-14: Jesus speaks about asking in His name for greater works.
• Romans 8:28: God's purpose in working all things for good for those who love Him.
• Hebrews 11:1: The nature of faith as being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

Conclusion

In summary, John 11:40 invites believers into a profound exploration of faith and divine revelation. When we grasp the depths of this verse, we can better appreciate the significance of Jesus’ words and actions. Understanding this passage encourages not only personal faith but also a commitment to studying Scripture that leads to deeper truths about God and His glory.