John 11:17-44 Friday, 2 October 2020
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?” -John 11:25-26
The Gospel of John is unique in that John focuses on portraying Jesus Christ as the Son of God who came to give eternal life to all who believe in Him (John 20:31). Chapter 11 of John’s Gospel shares the familiar story of the raising of Lazarus from death – a powerful miracle that presents Christ as the giver of life.
It is in this portion of Scripture that Jesus introduces Himself as the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25). This is the promise of the new covenant to all believers. Jesus, the eternal Son of God, who upholds all things by the word of His power is the very source of resurrection and of life. He promises every child of God that though we may age and die physically, yet we will live eternally with Him. He extends this invitation to everyone – to die to sin, be alive in Him and to build up a personal relationship with Him that will continue onto eternity.
The declaration “I am the resurrection and the life …” is followed by a very specific question of high significance in our faith walk that I would like to draw your attention. “Do you believe this?” (John 11:26) Jesus put the question across to Martha to see how much she put her trust in Him. Jesus searches our heart to bring out our declaration of faith. Do you believe that Christ is the Saviour who came to save you from your sins? Do you believe that in Him is Resurrection and Eternal Life? No matter what your challenges in life may be, do you believe Jesus can see you through and He is able to perfect that which concerns you?
Believing is a daily walk of faith with God— knowing that our Heavenly Father who through His Son restored our tainted and broken relationship with Him, is in complete control over every aspect of our lives. We can approach the throne room of grace in our times of need to receive His mercy and grace (Hebrews 4:16).
It is only by faith in the Son of God (John 1:2) who came down from heaven and lived among us (John 1:14), who died for our sins (Romans 4:25), who having conquered death and every force of darkness (Hebrews 2:14) rose again on the third day (1Corinthians 15:4) and having paid the penalty for our sins (1 Peter 2:24) is seated at the right hand of the Father interceding for us (Romans 8:34)—that we can experience the new spiritual life in Christ and joyfully await the promised eternal life (1 John 2:25).
What are your struggles today? Jesus calls you to put your trust in Him. Paraphrasing V.40 of what Jesus spoke to Martha, He tells you today: “If you believe, you will see the glory of God.” Believing in Him, let us experience His mighty plan of restoration and deliverance over lives. Believing, let us receive relief in our struggles, healing over sickness, His peace in our anxieties and His power to face life’s many challenges.
Prayer: Lord God, I thank You for the blessing of a new life built-up in You and the promise of eternal life through faith in Your Son. Help me each day to live in unwavering faith. In Jesus’ name. Amen