A Fourth-Day Man: Death UndoneIsampula

When Jesus arrives in Judea, He finds that Lazarus has already been in the tomb for four days. In this second encounter, as Jesus interacts with Lazarus’s sister Martha, we learn that Martha is understandably upset:

"Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died." (John 11:21)

She knows something about Jesus. Her allegation is that Lazarus’s death was a waste. What follows is her affirmation:

"Even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give to you." (John 11:22)

At this point, Martha knows about the widow's son being raised. She knows of Jairus' daughter being raised. Jesus has already taught that on the last day, He will raise people from the dead. Jesus hears Martha's hint and says to her:

"Your brother will rise again." (John 11:23)

What follows is Martha’s unbelievable, audacious assertion:

“I know that he will rise in the resurrection on the last day.” Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; the one who believes in Me will live, even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. (John 11:24-25)

This statement is the hinge of the climactic miracle. "I am the resurrection and the life.” In earlier chapters, Jesus has shown His authority over nature and demonic powers. Here He shows that death will be vanquished. In this story and in this very moment in 2022, Jesus Christ is the resurrection and the life. It’s not just an intellectual concept. He who lives and believes in Jesus shall never die.

Jesus then asks Martha an important question:

“Do you believe this?” She said to Him, “Yes, Lord; I have come to believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, and He who comes into the world.” (John 11:26-27)

The glory of God is found in acknowledging Jesus as the Son of God. Death is silenced under His conquest. This is our sure hope.