Is That The Way To Treat A Friend?
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | June 7, 2024 | John 11:1-11, 21, 32, 36 and 37
KEY VERSE:
When Jesus heard that, He said, “This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” John 11:4 (NKJV)
MESSAGE:
The introduction of Lazarus appears a bit curious to me. In verse 1, we are told of a certain man who is sick and his hometown. We are also told of two ladies who will turn out to be his sisters. Then in Verse 2, we are told of Mary's encounter with Jesus.
In verse 3, we are made aware that Jesus loves this man, Lazarus. By verse 11, we are made aware that Lazarus was a friend to Jesus and His disciples. We know from the passage the Lord Jesus did not rush to meet the needs of the one He loved and was also a friend. Jesus’ “inaction” can agitate the mind.
In fact, in verses 21 and 32, there appears to be a tinge of rebuke from the sisters. Verse 37 appears to give a sense of disappointment from some Jews. Now, it's instructive to note that except the for disciples, nobody else was aware of Jesus' statement in verse 4.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Not being privy to God's intentions and timing can be very perplexing for God's people. At times, we wonder if He is hiding from us or if He is unmindful of what is bothering us. We may even wonder if we're being treated fairly. How do we navigate that? The passage under discussion establishes Christ's love for and friendship with the Lazarus family. I believe His love for us should assure us that He is always with us and will do us no ill.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, help us to always have faith in your goodness and mercies.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: GLORIFIED The word "glorified" in John 11:4 is translated from the Greek word "δοξασθῇ" (doxasthē), a form of the verb "δοξάζω" (doxazō). This word conveys the concept of giving glory, honour, or praise, often in the context of divine revelation or manifestation. In the context of our key verse, Jesus speaks about the illness of Lazarus not as an end in itself but as an opportunity for God's glory to be revealed. This statement sets the stage for the miraculous raising of Lazarus, which will demonstrate the power and authority of Jesus as the Son of God. It underscores that the purpose of the miracle is to lead people to recognize and honour God, bringing glory to both the Father and the Son. The use of "δοξασθῇ" in John 11:4 emphasizes the broader theological theme of God's glory being revealed through Jesus Christ. The miracle of raising Lazarus serves a divine purpose: to manifest God's glory and to affirm Jesus' divine identity and mission. Reflections:
Reflect on the ways God's glory has been revealed in your own life, especially through difficult or challenging circumstances. How can you view your own trials and hardships as opportunities for God's glory to be manifested?
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