FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR'S INTENT AT THE PARAGRAPH LEVEL
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
Read the chapter in one sitting. Identify the subjects. Compare your subject divisions with the five modern translations. Paragraphing is not inspired, but it is the key to following the original author's intent, which is the heart of interpretation. Every paragraph has one and only one subject.
1. First paragraph
2. Second paragraph
3. Third paragraph
4. Etc.
THEOLOGICAL SUMMARY
The theological significance of chapter 11 is:
1. The display of Jesus' power and authority continues.
2. Lazarus' death is in the plan of God to provide an opportunity for Jesus to be glorified (cf. Joh_9:3).
3. Martha's dialog with Jesus provides an opportunity for her great confession and Jesus' further revelation of Himself (i.e., the resurrection and the life, Joh_11:25).
4. Jesus gives eternal life now (realized eschatology). This is symbolized in the raising of Lazarus. Jesus had control over death!
5. Even in the face of this powerful miracle, unbelief continues (i.e. the unpardonable sin, see Special Topic at Joh_5:21)!
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be thought-provoking, not definitive.
1. Why did Jesus allow Lazarus to die?
2. Who was the miracle directed toward?
3. What is the difference between a resurrection and resuscitation?
4. Why were the Jewish leaders so appalled by the raising of Lazarus?