commentary on john 11 45-57

Lemon

3 min read

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04-02-2025

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John 11:45-57 marks a pivotal turning point in the Gospel of John, a dramatic crescendo building to the climax of Jesus' crucifixion. This passage details the aftermath of Lazarus' resurrection, shifting the narrative from the miracle itself to its profound consequences and the escalating tensions it creates. Let's delve into a verse-by-verse analysis, exploring the interplay of faith, fear, and the escalating conflict surrounding Jesus.

Verses 45-47: Whispers of Belief, Seeds of Doubt

45 Then many of the Jews who had come to Mary and had seen what Jesus had done believed in him. 46 But some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done.

The resurrection of Lazarus is not met with universal acceptance. While many believe, the Gospel emphasizes the existence of a dissenting faction. This highlights the deeply divided nature of Jewish society at the time, with varying interpretations of Jesus' actions and claims. The immediate reporting to the Pharisees underscores the growing threat Jesus poses to the established religious order. These Pharisees aren't merely skeptical; they are threatened by Jesus' power and popularity.

Verses 47-53: The Sanhedrin's Deliberations – Fear and Conspiracy

47 Then the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered the Sanhedrin and said, “What are we to do? For this man performs many signs. 48 If we let him go on like this, everyone will believe in him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation.” *49 But one of them, Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all. 50 Nor do you understand that it is better for you that one man should die for the people than that the whole nation should perish.” 51 He did not say this of his own accord, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus was to die for the nation— 52 and not for the nation only, but also to gather into one the children of God who are scattered abroad. 53 So from that day on they made plans to put him to death.

This section reveals the Sanhedrin's fear-driven decision-making. Their primary concern isn't theological; it's political. They fear that Jesus' growing influence will provoke Roman intervention, resulting in the loss of their autonomy and possibly the destruction of the nation. Caiaphas's seemingly insightful prophecy – that Jesus' death would be for the benefit of the nation – is presented ironically. While his words inadvertently point towards the redemptive nature of Jesus' sacrifice, his motivation is self-preservation and the maintenance of political power. His "prophecy" is less divine inspiration and more a pragmatic political calculation, highlighting the complexities of faith and power within the context of the time.

Verses 54-57: Jesus' Withdrawal and the Plot Thickens

54 So Jesus no longer walked openly among the Jews, but went from there to the region near the wilderness, to a village called Ephraim, and there he stayed with his disciples. 55 Now the Passover of the Jews was at hand, and many went up from the country to Jerusalem before the Passover to purify themselves. 56 They were looking for Jesus and speaking to one another in the temple, “What do you think? Will he not come to the feast?” 57 The chief priests and the Pharisees had given orders that if anyone knew where he was, he should let them know, so that they might arrest him.

The final verses depict Jesus' strategic retreat. He avoids open confrontation, moving to a more secluded area to protect himself and his disciples. This is not cowardice, but a calculated decision to avoid unnecessary conflict before the planned Passover events. The juxtaposition of Jesus' withdrawal with the ongoing search for him by the Jewish authorities further intensifies the narrative tension, setting the stage for the events of Holy Week. The open search and the authorities' orders highlight the growing desperation and determination of those seeking to eliminate Jesus.

Conclusion: A Turning Point

John 11:45-57 is not simply a recounting of events; it's a masterful depiction of the escalating conflict between Jesus and the established authorities. It illustrates the limitations of human understanding in the face of divine revelation, the manipulative use of religious power, and the profound consequences of both faith and fear. The passage leaves the reader anticipating the inevitable clash, highlighting the inherent tension between faith and power in the face of the looming crucifixion. This section is crucial to understanding the subsequent events leading up to Jesus' death and his ultimate triumph.