John11

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Dec 6, 2023

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Title: Understanding John 11 Name: Patricia Young Introduction The Gospel of John provides readers with a unique perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Unlike Matthew and Mark, the Fourth Gospel was referred to as the Beloved Disciple, which was identified as the Apostle John, and the son of Zebedee. 1 Supposedly, the book was written by Apostle John in Palestine late in the first century or very early in the second century. 2 According to deSilva, the Gospel has its own purpose statement as listed in John 20:31, “These are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God.” Within the Fourth Gospel, John 11 stands as a significant chapter that conveys a particular message to its original audience. By analyzing the context, language, and keywords used, we can gain insights into the author's intended message and the impact it may have had on its initial readers. To understand the message of John 11, it is important to consider its context within the larger narrative. In this chapter, Jesus receives news of his dear friend Lazarus falling ill. However, Jesus deliberately delays his journey to Bethany, resulting in Lazarus's death. Eventually, Jesus arrives at Lazarus' tomb and, through a display of his divine power, raises him from the dead. This miraculous event prompts many to believe in Jesus while also provoking the religious authorities to plot his demise. Author's Message to the Original Audience John's Gospel was written with a specific purpose in mind, to present Jesus as the Son of God, emphasizing the significance of faith in Him for eternal life. In John 11, the author seeks to reinforce this message by showcasing Jesus' power over death 1 David A. deSilva. An Introduction to the New Testament. Contexts, Methods, and Ministry Formation 2 nd Edition. p. 341. 2 Ibid., p. 344.

and the subsequent belief it generates among those who witness this miracle. This chapter strongly emphasizes Jesus' divinity and the hope that faith in Him brings, even in the face of death. Jewish Christians were almost certainly at the centre of the audience for whom John’s Gospel was written. 3 The opening scenes present Jesus as a rabbi and as the Messiah or “Christ” foretold in the Jewish Scriptures. The titles “Son of God” and “King of Israel” also recall Jewish traditions (1:35-51). Jesus continues to be called a rabbi throughout the Gospel, suggesting that the title was significant for readers, and the evangelist seems to use “Christ” as a Jewish messianic expression rather than making “Christ” a part of Jesus’ name. Jesus’ identity is also explicated in terms of the Jewish festivals of the Sabbath, Passover, Booths, and Dedication or Hanukkah (John 5-10), and the major symbols in these chapters – bread, water, and light – are closely connected to their use in Jewish rituals at these festivals. 4 Keywords Contributing to the Message "Believe" (John 11:15, 25-27, 40): The repeated emphasis on belief demonstrates the central message of the passage. Through the resurrection of Lazarus, Jesus enables the audience to witness the power of faith. By showcasing Lazarus' revival and the subsequent impact on those who witnessed it, the author urges the original audience to place their trust in Jesus as the source of eternal life. "Life" (John 11:4, 25, 26, 50): The concept of life, both physical and spiritual, is a crucial keyword throughout John 11. By raising Lazarus from the dead, Jesus displays his power over physical death. However, the author also highlights the eternal life that Jesus offers to those who believe in him, emphasizing the importance of spiritual life as well. 3 Craig S. Keener, The Gospel of John Baker Academic, A Division of Baker Publishing Group, 2003. 4 Ben Witherington III, John’s Wisdom. A Commentary on the Fourth Gospel. 1995:32-33.

“Signs" (John 11:47):This keyword highlights how the resurrection of Lazarus serves as a significant sign or miracle that affirms Jesus' divinity. The author intends to provoke faith and belief through these signs, indicating the greater purpose of Jesus' ministry. Finally, "I AM" (John 11:25-26): Throughout John's Gospel, Jesus frequently uses the phrase "I am" to express his divine nature. In this passage, when Jesus declares, "I am the resurrection and the life," he asserts his authority over death and solidifies his divine identity. This reinforces the author's intention to emphasize Jesus' divine power and the importance of faith in Him. Conclusion In John 11, the author conveys a powerful message to the original audience, to believe in Jesus as the Son of God, who has power over death and offers eternal life to those who trust in Him. Through the resurrection of Lazarus, the intensity of Jesus' divinity is displayed, affirming the author's central theme of faith and belief. The keywords employed, such as "believe," "life," "signs," and "I AM," further contribute to the overall message, underscoring Jesus' divine nature and the significance of faith in Him for eternal salvation.

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Bibliography David A. DeSilva, An Introduction to the New Testament: Contexts, Methods, and Ministry Formation. 2nd Edition (IVP Academic: 2018). Keener, C S 2003. The Gospel of John. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson. Witherington III, B 1995. John’s Wisdom. A Commentary on the Fourth Gospel . Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox.

John11

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