Definition: (It was [that] Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.)

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 11:2. It's a really interesting and symbolic passage about Jesus’s sacrifice! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it describes how Jesus performed his resurrection. Let’s unpack it: “It was Mary…” – This refers to Mary, one of Jesus’s mother. “…which anointed the Lord…” - “Anointing” meant a special oil, often used for religious ceremonies or to bless something. So, Mary was blessing or protecting Jesus with this oil. "...with ointment..." – This is key! It’s not just any oil. It's a special oil – perhaps one that symbolized purity and grace. "...and wiped his feet with her hair…” - This is the really dramatic part. Jesus was sitting in a room, and Mary was wiping his feet with her hair. This shows immense love and care. What’s the significance? The Bible says that this act of Mary was crucial to Jesus's resurrection. It demonstrates: Jesus’s Love: He chose to spend time with Mary, showing his deep affection for her. His Sacrifice: This action represents a significant sacrifice – he willingly gave himself up to death and resurrected. It’s a powerful image of devotion and the ultimate act of love. In short, this verse is saying that Mary’s heartfelt care and reverence for Jesus led to his resurrection! --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about the story of Mary's visit to the tomb?

Definition: Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat [still] in the house.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this short passage from John 11:20. It's a really important part of the story about Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem and how Martha reacts. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: Jesus was about to arrive in Jerusalem for a big celebration. Martha, who is a close friend of Jesus’s, is worried because she’s expecting news from him. She goes to meet him and finds him… waiting. What Happened Next: “Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming…” – This means Martha immediately realizes something important is going to happen. She's not just curious; she’s anticipating it. “…went and met him:” - She travels a short distance to see him. “but Mary sat [still] in the house.” – This is the crucial part. Mary, who is known for being peaceful and steadfast, sits quietly in her home. What it Means Figuratively: This isn’t just about Martha sitting still; it's a powerful metaphor. It means: She’s waiting with patience and hope. She’s not rushing to greet him or get excited. Her stillness represents faith. It suggests she’s holding onto something – perhaps a belief in Jesus, or a quiet expectation of his arrival. Why is this important? This scene highlights the idea that God has a plan for us. Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, and Martha, with her quiet waiting, shows us that we too should be ready and steadfast in our faith – holding onto hope and trust, even when things aren't clear. In short: It’s a beautiful image of anticipation and quiet devotion, suggesting that God's plans are unfolding, and we should be prepared to receive them with patience. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the symbolism behind this passage in more detail?

Definition: Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this very important verse from John 11:21. It’s a really poignant and emotional passage about grief and loss. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: Jesus was about to die. He’d been wounded severely by an angry mob. Martha, Jesus’s sister, is incredibly distraught – she’s grieving deeply because her brother had died. She pleads with him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother had not died.” What it Means in Simple Terms: Martha isn't just expressing sadness; she's feeling a profound sense of unfairness and regret . She’s wondering why Jesus, who is God and should be able to overcome death, wasn’t present with her when he was suffering. It’s like saying, “If you had been here, this would not have happened.” It's about a lack of connection: The verse highlights a fundamental truth: Jesus’s presence matters . It speaks to the idea that connection and love are vital for overcoming death. When Jesus is with us, it diminishes the pain of loss. Important Note: This isn't about blaming Jesus or anything. It’s a deeply emotional expression of Martha’s grief and a recognition of the importance of connection – specifically, the presence of God – in life and death. In essence, this verse is a powerful reminder that our relationships with God and each other are incredibly important for navigating loss and finding comfort. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the meaning of this verse in more detail? Provide context about why this passage is significant?

Definition: But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give [it] thee.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from John 11:22: “But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give [it] thee.” Here’s what it means in simpler terms: This is a comforting and hopeful message about God’s willingness to help you. It essentially says: “Don't worry about what you need; God will provide for you, even now.” Let’s unpack it a little: "But I know..." : This acknowledges that you might be struggling or facing a difficult situation. You feel like you don't have enough to ask for. "...that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God..." : This means that right now , regardless of what you’re going through, God is open to hearing your request and responding to it. "...God will give [it] thee." : This is the key part! “It” refers to whatever you're asking for – a need, a desire, a problem – that you’re facing. God promises to provide it for you. In essence, it’s an invitation to trust in God and lean on Him for support. It emphasizes that God is always available and willing to fulfill your needs. It's often used as a reminder of God's love and care. --- Does this explanation make sense? Would you like me to: Explain the context of this verse in more detail (e.g., its significance within the larger story of Jesus’ crucifixion)? Offer some related biblical examples to illustrate this idea?

Definition: Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this famous verse from John 11:23! It’s a really important and often misunderstood part of the story. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is telling Mary (who was grieving the death of her son, Jesus) that his brother will be resurrected. Let’s unpack it further: “John 11” : This refers to a specific passage in the Gospel of John. “Jesus saith” : This means “Jesus said.” It's a way of saying he’s speaking from a certain perspective. “unto her” : This is a very important word – it means "to her" or "to you." Jesus is addressing Mary, specifically to her. “Thy brother” : This is a straightforward translation of “your brother.” It refers to the lost son of Joseph, who was murdered by Herod. “Shall rise again” : This is the key part! It means that Jesus's brother will be resurrected – brought back to life after being buried. The Significance & What it Means: This verse is a powerful message of hope and resurrection. It speaks to: Hope for the Dead: Jesus is promising that even though someone dies, their soul can be restored to life. Victory over Death: Resurrection symbolizes victory over death itself. It’s about being freed from suffering and eternal existence. The Promise of Eternal Life: The resurrection is a promise of eternal life with God. Important Note: This verse isn't necessarily about Jesus resurrecting his own brother. It focuses on the hope for the lost son and his eventual return to life. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Give you some context or background information on this story?

Definition: Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from John 11:24. It's a really powerful statement about Jesus’s future victory and the hope for believers. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Martha believes that Jesus will rise again after his death. Let’s unpack that a little more: “Martha saith unto him…”: This is Martha speaking to Jesus. She’s expressing her belief and concern. “…I know that he shall rise again…”: This is the core of the verse. Martha isn’t just thinking about it; she knows it's going to happen. She has a deep conviction that Jesus will be resurrected. What does “resurrection at the last day” mean? This phrase refers to a huge event in the future – a final, complete return of Jesus after his death. It’s a victory over sin and death for everyone who believes in him. It’s often described as the ultimate triumph of good over evil. Why is this important? Hope for believers: This verse gives us hope because it promises that even though we die, Jesus will ultimately conquer death and bring us back to life. Jesus's victory: It highlights Jesus’s complete victory over sin and the grave. It shows that his sacrifice was enough to overcome all limitations. In short, John 11:24 is a hopeful statement about the future resurrection of Jesus Christ. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the meaning of this verse in more detail?

Definition: Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really important passage from John 11:25. It’s a pretty striking statement! Here's an explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is saying that he is the person who can bring someone back to life after they are dead. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “John 11:25” : This is the verse itself – a specific part of a larger story. “Jesus said unto her…” : This means Jesus is speaking directly to Mary, who was grieving the death of her son John. “…I am the resurrection, and the life:” This is the core of the message. “I am the resurrection” : This is a powerful declaration. It's saying that Jesus himself is the one who can overcome death. He’s not just capable of it; he is the solution. “…and the life:” This emphasizes that Jesus’s power to bring someone back to life isn't just about a quick revival – it’s about eternal life. So, what does this mean practically? Jesus is offering a promise of hope and second chances. He says he can conquer death itself! It’s a message of comfort and reassurance that even in the face of loss, there's still the possibility of eternal life through faith in Jesus. Important Context: This verse comes after Jesus tells Mary that he will rise again from the dead. He's essentially saying: "I'm not just capable of bringing you back to life; I am the way to bring you back to life." In short, this is a profound statement about the power of faith and resurrection. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what this passage might mean in the context of Christian theology? Give you some examples of how people interpret this message today?

Definition: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this famous verse from John 11:26: “And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.” Here's a simple explanation: This verse is about eternal life through faith. It essentially says that if you believe in Jesus Christ (and follow Him), you’re guaranteed to live forever. Let's unpack it a little: “Whosoever liveth” : This means "anyone who lives." It’s a general statement – anyone who has chosen to follow God and trust in Jesus. “And believeth in me” : This is the crucial part! “Believing” here means having faith, trusting, and accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior. It's more than just thinking about him; it’s a deep, committed belief. “Shall never die” : This is the key promise. The verse says that if you believe in Jesus, you won’t experience death. It’s like a guarantee of eternal life. In short: The verse offers assurance of everlasting life through faith in Jesus Christ. It's a powerful message of hope and comfort for believers. Important Note: This is often interpreted as a promise of heaven, but it can also be understood as an assurance of life after death, though that’s a more complex theological concept. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain what "believing" means in the context of this verse? Talk about why this verse is so important for Christians?

Definition: She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 11:27. It’s a really important and somewhat surprising passage! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Mary is telling Jesus that she completely believes he is the Christ – which is a very special title for Jesus. Let's unpack it further: “She saith unto him…” - This is just a way of saying “Mary says to him.” “…Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ…” - "Lord" refers to Jesus. "I believe" is Mary’s direct declaration – she firmly believes this. “The Christ” is a crucial part of the Bible. It's referring to Jesus's birth and life as the Messiah (a special person who will come to Earth). “…the Son of God…” - This emphasizes that he’s not just any human, but divine – He’s God’s son. “which should come into the world.” - This is the key part. Mary believes that Jesus is destined to be born and live a full life on Earth, fulfilling his purpose as the Messiah. What's the significance? This verse is significant because it shows: Mary’s unwavering faith: She's completely devoted to Jesus. A foundational belief: It establishes a core belief for her – that Jesus is indeed the Messiah and will be born and live a life of purpose. It’s a moment of profound conviction. It suggests she wasn’t just considering Jesus as the Messiah, but truly believing he was the divine being who would come to Earth to redeem humanity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about this passage in the Bible?

Definition: And when she had so said, she went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, The Master is come, and calleth for thee.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from John 11:28. It's a really interesting and slightly mysterious verse! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is telling Mary (who was grieving the death of her husband, Jesus) that he’s coming back to life. He’s saying this with a sense of urgency and love. Let's unpack it word by word: “And when she had so said…” – This sets up a moment of intense emotion. She just uttered a powerful statement. “…she went her way…” – She moved away, probably in a thoughtful or anxious way. “and called Mary her sister secretly…” - She didn’t tell Mary directly that he was coming back to life. Instead, she used the term “sister” – a familiar and intimate relationship. This is important because it's a secret call. “saying, The Master is come, and calleth for thee.” - This is the core of the message. "The Master is come" means Jesus is returning to life. “Calleth for thee” means he’s calling her to join him. What does it really mean? This verse speaks to a profound sense of hope and reunion. It's like saying, "Soon, I'm coming back." It’s not just about physical resurrection; it’s about a spiritual return – a reconnection with God. Why is it significant? He’s coming back for us: The phrase “The Master is come” highlights Jesus’ ultimate purpose - to bring salvation and life to humanity. It's not a grand announcement: It's not a formal, public declaration. It’s a private, intimate moment of connection between Jesus and Mary. In short, it’s a beautiful expression of love and anticipation for the ultimate resurrection. --- Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2011%2C28](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2011%2C28) The Bible Project: [https://www.thebibleproject.com/](https://www.thebibleproject.com/) - They have a good explanation of this passage: [https://www.thebibleproject.com/passage-analysis/john-11-28-verse-explanation/](https://www.thebibleproject.com/passage-analysis/john-11-28-verse-explanation/) Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can help with? Would you like me to: Explain a different aspect of the passage in more detail? Compare it to another Bible story or concept?