Study John 11

On today’s journey we find Jesus demonstrating his compassion to people, particularly to a family from a town called Bethany. Jesus, always mindful of his purpose on earth, also uses his love for people to demonstrate who he is. Jesus backs up his claims with actions that only one sent from God could perform.

Chapter 11 Study Questions

  1. There was an ultimate purpose in the sickness of Lazarus, and it was not his death. According to Jesus what was the purpose? (11:4)
  2. It is clear from this chapter that Jesus loved Martha, Mary and Lazarus (11:5). Why do you think Jesus delayed his journey for 2 days? How could this be an expression of love?
  3. Why did Jesus not wish to be present at the time of Lazarus’ death? (11:15).
  4. Jesus makes the claim that he is “the resurrection” and “the life.” (11:25) With these words Jesus is claiming to be God’s chosen one to bring life to humanity. How does Martha respond to Jesus’ claim? (11:27)
  5. Even though Jesus knows that Lazarus will be restored to life, what was one of the ways that Jesus’ love for this family was made known? (11:35)
  6. Could Jesus have done something to keep Lazarus from dying? (11:37)
  7. Why do you think he didn’t do something to keep Lazarus from dying?
  8. How long had Lazarus been in the tomb? Why is Martha reluctant to open the tomb? (11:39)
  9. Did Lazarus obey Jesus’ command?
  10. How does the text refer to Lazarus? (11:44)
  11. Do you think Jesus’ miracle of raising Lazarus strengthens his claim that he is “the resurrection” and “the life?”
  12. Jesus says, “I am the resurrection and the life.” Then He promises, “The one who believes in me will live even if he dies, and the one who lives and believes in me will never die.” Does this miracle help you to believe in Jesus?
Ch 11 Study Questions – PDF
Ch 11 Answers – PDF
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Chapter 11 Answers

  1. “God’s glory, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.”
  2. Their understanding about who Jesus really is was more important than the physical life of Lazarus.  Jesus showed his love by displaying the most important truths that they needed.
  3. So that belief might come about through Lazarus’ death.
  4. “Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God who comes into the world.”
  5. He wept.
  6. Yes.
  7. By allowing Lazarus to die Jesus will now be able to demonstrate that he has authority even over death.
  8. Four days, she was afraid of the bad smell.
  9. Yes.
  10. “The one who had died.”
  11. Yes.
  12. Yes.  It is wonderful to not only hear the claims of that Jesus made but to “see” those claims demonstrated through his acts.