Definition: Now a certain [man] was sick, [named] Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 11:1. It’s a really interesting little story about Jesus and how he healed someone who was dying. Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, Jesus is healing a man named Lazarus. “Now a certain [man] was sick…” – This tells us that there was a person experiencing some kind of illness or pain. It doesn’t give us details about what the sickness is, but it establishes that someone needed help. “…named Lazarus” – This is important because Lazarus was a man who had died years before and was now being brought back to life. He was known as Lazarus – meaning “the one who returns.” So, the verse says Jesus is helping someone named Lazarus who was already dead. Why is this significant? This story is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of Jesus’s own ministry. It shows that: Jesus cares about people who are suffering: He's not just focusing on those who are actively living, but also on those who have passed away and are waiting for someone to bring them back. Jesus has the power to restore life: It highlights Jesus’s ability to heal and rescue people from death. It’s a simple story about hope and the promise of resurrection. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail, or would you like to know more about the context of this story? For example, we could talk about: The meaning of “Lazarus” What Jesus is saying with his words.

Definition: But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 11:10 together. It's a really powerful and insightful message about overcoming darkness within ourselves. Here’s what it means, explained simply: Basically, the verse says that when we’re facing challenges, difficulties, or feeling lost, we’re vulnerable to falling – both literally and figuratively. Let’s unpack each part: “But if a man walk in the night…” : This refers to our lives. When we’re experiencing hardship, worry, sadness, or confusion - that's when we're in "the night." It's a time of uncertainty and potential for stumbling. "...he stumbleth..." : “Stumble” means to fall down, to lose your way, to be unsteady. It’s about feeling lost, confused, or discouraged. "...because there is no light in him." This is the core of the message. "Light" represents goodness, wisdom, truth, and a clear path forward. When we're in the "night," our inner world – our thoughts, feelings, and judgments – are shrouded in darkness. We lack clarity and guidance. So, what does this mean practically? It’s a reminder that: We all struggle sometimes. Life throws curveballs. It's okay to feel lost or discouraged. It’s normal to experience difficult times. We need something to help us navigate those moments. That "light" – our faith, our values, our relationships, and a sense of purpose – is what helps us stay on the right path. The verse encourages us to: Seek guidance: Don’t wallow in despair; look for wisdom and truth. Trust God: We need His light to guide us through the darkness. Keep moving forward: Even when we feel lost, we must keep walking – striving towards a brighter future. In essence, John 11:10 is a gentle but profound call to seek strength and clarity within ourselves, even in the darkest of times. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an example? Discuss the meaning of “light” in more detail?

Definition: These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this short passage from John 11:11. It’s a really important and slightly mysterious verse. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is telling his friends that his friend, Lazarus, who died years ago, is still alive. He’s explaining that he’s going to investigate and find out if he’s truly well. Let’s unpack the words: “These things said he” : This is Jesus speaking directly to his followers. It's a personal message. “and after that he saith unto them” : He continues with a statement to his friends. “He says to them…” “Our friend Lazarus sleepeth” : This means "Our friend Lazarus is asleep." Lazarus was a man who died and was believed to be in the afterlife. “but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.” : This is the core of the message. He’s going to investigate and find out if Lazarus is alive. “I go” means he's leaving to do this investigation. "Awake him out of sleep" – This is a bit poetic; it suggests he’s going to bring him back to life. What does it mean in a broader sense? This verse often gets interpreted as a sign that Jesus is about to perform a miracle – perhaps healing or resurrection – that will restore Lazarus's life and, by extension, our own. It's a moment of profound hope and anticipation. Important Note: The exact meaning of this passage has been debated throughout history. It’s considered one of the most mysterious parts of the Bible! --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from John 11? Discuss a specific interpretation of this verse?

Definition: Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this short verse from John 11:12. It’s a really interesting and slightly unsettling passage about Jesus’s death. Here's the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus was wounded severely on the cross. He died for our sins and to offer forgiveness. Because of this, he’s now considered dead. Let's unpack it word by word: “John 11:12 Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well.” – This is the core of the verse. The disciples are worried and expressing a concern. They’re asking, "Lord, if Jesus is dead, will he really be okay?" What does it mean? It's a powerful metaphor for acknowledging that death is permanent and that Jesus’s sacrifice is ultimately victorious. Here's what it suggests: “Lord” : This isn't a formal address to Jesus. It’s a way of saying “Hey, Jesus, you’re in a difficult situation.” “If he sleep…” : This means Jesus is not alive. He’s physically dead. “…he shall do well” : This is the key part. "Well" here implies good or successful . It suggests that despite his death, Jesus's sacrifice will ultimately lead to a better future for humanity – a future of redemption and eternal life. Symbolic Meaning: The verse can be interpreted as: Jesus’s sacrifice is the foundation for our hope. It’s the beginning of a new cycle of life and resurrection. His death isn't an ending, but a transformation. It sets us free from sin and allows us to participate in God’s love and eternal life. In essence, it's a plea for faith – that even though Jesus is dead, he will ultimately be victorious and bring about a better future. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail? Talk about its theological significance?

Definition: Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 11:13 together. It’s a really interesting and slightly mysterious passage! Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about Jesus anticipating a painful event – his crucifixion – and how people interpreted it. He was talking about death, but they thought he meant something different. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “John 11:13 Howbeit Jesus spake of his death…” - This is a key phrase. "Howbeit" means “though” or “even though.” It's introducing a contrast – Jesus was going to talk about death, but they were misinterpreting him. “…but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep.” - This is the core of the problem. They believed Jesus was going to sleep peacefully and comfortably. They thought it meant he was simply resting and wouldn't be in pain. Why did they think this? They were worried about his suffering: The Gospels describe Jesus as being wounded and vulnerable, and people naturally feared for his safety. They didn’t understand the implications of death: Death is a profound thing – it means ending life. They weren't fully grasping that it wasn’t just about him dying, but about the end of everything . What does this verse teach us? It highlights a point about human understanding and our tendency to misinterpret things when we're scared or anxious. It also shows Jesus was aware of their anxieties and anticipated they would be troubled by his impending death. In essence, the verse is saying that people weren’t truly seeing the full picture of what Jesus was preparing for. --- Do you want to delve deeper into any aspect of this verse? For example, we could talk about: The context of the story (the events leading up to his crucifixion) Why it's a significant moment in Christian theology The symbolism behind "rest in sleep"

Definition: Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this very short but important verse from John 11:14: “Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead.” Here's a simple explanation: Basically, it means: Jesus told the people who were grieving about Lazarus that he had died. Let’s unpack it a little bit: “Then” : This word indicates a moment of pause or transition in the story. It’s like a natural break. “Said Jesus unto them” : Jesus is speaking directly to the people who are mourning. “Plainly” : This is crucial. Jesus didn't use complicated language or metaphors. He just said it directly and clearly. What does this tell us about Jesus’s message? This simple statement is incredibly profound because: It’s a sad moment: It acknowledges the grief of those who loved Lazarus. It’s a direct truth: Jesus is revealing a significant event – Lazarus is gone. It's a core part of Jesus’s message: This verse sets the stage for what follows, where Jesus begins to explain why he’s comforting them and offering hope. In short, it’s a straightforward announcement that Lazarus has passed away. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you a little background on the story of Lazarus?

Definition: And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 11:15. It’s a really interesting and slightly complex passage about Jesus’s arrival in Jerusalem. Here's the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is saying, “I’m glad you’re here – I wasn’t with you.” But he also wants to encourage you to believe in him. Let’s look at it piece by piece: “And I am glad for your sakes…” - This means Jesus feels good about you being there, and is grateful for your presence. It's a simple expression of happiness. “…that I was not there…” – This is the key part. He’s acknowledging that he wasn’t physically present with you when he arrived in Jerusalem. “to the intent ye may believe…” - This is where it gets more profound. "The intent" means purpose . Jesus wants you to believe in him. He's hoping that your presence there will be a sign of your belief. “… nevertheless let us go unto him.” – This is the crucial part after he says “I am glad for your sakes.” It’s a suggestion and an invitation. “Let us go unto him” means to go to Jesus . So, what's the big takeaway? Jesus isn't just saying "good for you." He's inviting you to connect with him, to experience his presence, and to let your belief in him be evident. It’s a way of saying, “Come closer to me, and I will show you.” In essence, it’s a gentle invitation to come together with Jesus. --- Does that explanation make sense? Would you like me to: Explain another verse from John 11? Discuss the significance of this passage in the context of Jesus's ministry?

Definition: Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellowdisciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 11:16. It’s a really beautiful and poignant passage about faith and the promise of eternal life. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Thomas is saying he wants to go with Jesus, and he wants to die with him. Let’s unpack that a little further: “Then said Thomas…” : This sets up a conversation. Thomas is speaking. “…which is called Didymus…” : Thomas is identifying himself as a disciple – someone following Jesus. He's giving a nickname to this person, which is a way of showing his deep affection for them. “unto his fellowdisciples…” : This means he’s talking to his companions. “…Let us also go, that we may die with him.” : This is the core of the verse. Thomas isn't just suggesting they go; he’s expressing a profound desire – and hope – for eternal life alongside Jesus. He wants to be reunited with him in the afterlife. What does this mean about faith? The Bible often speaks about trusting in something bigger than ourselves. This verse highlights that we can have a strong connection with God through our faith and commitment to following his teachings. It suggests that our belief in Jesus is so deep, it leads us to want to share his final fate – to die with him. It's a powerful message about hope and eternal life. --- Important Note: This verse isn’t just about wanting to be near Jesus; it’s about the promise of an eternal relationship with God that transcends our earthly lives. It speaks to a desire for something far greater than anything we can experience in this world. Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the meaning of this verse within the context of the Gospel (the story of Jesus)?

Definition: Then when Jesus came, he found that he had [lain] in the grave four days already.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 11:17 together: “Then when Jesus came, he found that he had lain in the grave four days already.” Basically, it means: Jesus was in the ground for about four days before He was discovered. Here's a simpler way to understand it: Imagine you’re building a house and you start laying bricks on Monday. After four days, you’ve finished building almost all of it! That’s what Jesus is saying – he spent a significant amount of time in the grave before His resurrection. Important Note: This verse is often used symbolically to represent Jesus's sacrifice and resurrection. Do you want me to: Explain why this story is important? (Like, it shows his power and that He’s risen from the dead!) Give you a little more context about the events leading up to this verse? Or do you have any other questions about this passage?

Definition: Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 11:18: “Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off.” Here's a simple explanation: What it means: This verse tells us that Bethany, a woman who lived in the region of Judea (which is now part of Israel), was traveling towards Jerusalem. “Furlong” is a unit of distance used for measuring land. “Fifteen furlongs” means about 16 miles – which is a significant distance! What it's telling us about Bethany: She’s near Jerusalem: This establishes that she’s in the area where Jerusalem is located. About fifteen furlongs off: This gives us a specific, measurable distance – enough for her to travel about 16 miles. Why it’s significant (and what it might suggest): This verse is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of Jesus' crucifixion. Here's the key idea: The journey represents time: “Nigh unto Jerusalem” suggests she was traveling for a period, possibly days or weeks. The distance represents preparation: The 16 furlongs are a significant amount of travel – it’s a long and demanding journey. It signifies that Jesus was preparing for his coming. Important Note: It's important to remember this is a symbolic verse. It wasn’t meant to be taken literally about a physical journey. It foreshadowed the immense suffering and sacrifice that Jesus would make on our behalf. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points further, or perhaps delve into a specific aspect of this verse? For example, would you like to know: More about the historical context of this passage? How this verse relates to the story of Jesus’ death?