3 Reasons Jesus Wept at Lazarus’s Tomb

In many English translations, John 11:35 is the shortest verse in the Bible and one of the easiest to memorize.“Jesus wept.” – John 11:35Though short, this one verse raises many questions. Why was Jesus weeping? He was God in the flesh. No matter what challenges He faced, he knew how all of this would end. He would be victorious. He would overcome death. He would save the world. So why the tears? Jesus wept at Lazarus’s tomb because He was deeply moved by the grief surrounding Him and the devastation of death, revealing genuine compassion even though He knew Lazarus would soon rise.Let’s zoom out of this two-word verse to gain a fuller context of what was happening that brought Jesus not only to tears but to weeping.What Is the Context of Jesus Wept in John 11?John 11 does not provide one explicit explanation for Jesus’ tears, but the surrounding passage points to His compassion, His deep disturbance at death and unbelief, and the approaching reality of His own death. Toward the end of Jesus’ ministry, word got to Him that one of His dear friends had died. Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha, was dead. Jesus was very close to this family. Mary was the woman who anointed Jesus’ feet with ointment and wiped them with her hair (John 11:2). Martha had previously welcomed Jesus into her home, where she became distracted by serving. (Luke 10:38-42)The sisters were very sorrowful at the passing of their brother, though early on, they still had hope. They knew Jesus personally and knew of the miracles He could perform. They knew He had healed the sick and given sight to the blind. Surely He would raise their brother from the dead.Get your FREE 8-Day Prayer and Scripture Guide – Praying Through the Holy Week HERE, Print your own copy for a beautiful daily devotional leading up to Easter.Photo Credit: Pixabay | Written by Christina Patterson | iBelieve.com | Read full story at Read More