Resurrection and Life: A Devotional on John 11:1-12:50
October 15
Scripture: John 11:1-12:50 (NIV)
In John 11:1-12:50, we witness powerful demonstrations of Jesus' divinity and His role as the Savior of the world. This passage includes the account of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, and His teachings about His impending death and glorification.
One important verse from this passage is:
John 11:25-26 (NIV):
"Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?'"
This verse encapsulates Jesus' claim to be the source of resurrection and eternal life. It challenges us to examine our faith in Him and to trust in His power to conquer death and grant us everlasting life.
The passage begins with the story of Lazarus, a close friend of Jesus, falling ill and dying. Jesus receives word of Lazarus' illness but delays His arrival in Bethany until after Lazarus has died. When Jesus finally arrives, Lazarus' sisters, Mary and Martha, express their disappointment that Jesus did not come sooner to heal their brother.
Jesus responds by demonstrating His power over death. He commands Lazarus to come out of the tomb, and Lazarus is raised to life, to the amazement of those who witness the miracle. Through this miraculous sign, Jesus reveals Himself as the resurrection and the life, foreshadowing His own resurrection and the eternal life He offers to all who believe in Him.
The passage then transitions to Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where He is welcomed as the long-awaited Messiah. The crowds hail Him as the King of Israel, spreading their cloaks and palm branches on the road before Him. This event fulfills the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9 and underscores Jesus' identity as the promised Messiah.
However, Jesus' entry into Jerusalem also foreshadows His impending suffering and death. He speaks of His hour drawing near and compares Himself to a grain of wheat that must die in order to bear much fruit. Jesus predicts His crucifixion and emphasizes the necessity of His death for the salvation of humanity.
As we reflect on this passage, we are reminded of Jesus' power over death and His sacrificial love for us. We are challenged to examine our faith in Him and to trust in His promise of eternal life. Let us pray:
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who is the resurrection and the life. Help us to place our trust in Him and to live in the hope of His promise of eternal life.
May we draw strength from His sacrificial love and proclaim His gospel to all who are lost and in need of salvation.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
