New Testament
John 11:19
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Many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them concerning their brother.
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And many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother.
What John 11:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a community coming together to support Martha and Mary during a time of grief. Their brother, Lazarus, has died, and the Jewish community shows compassion by visiting the sisters to offer comfort. This reflects the importance of communal support in times of sorrow. The act of coming together signifies shared mourning and the human need for connection during difficult times. The presence of many Jews indicates that Lazarus was well-known and loved, and their visit underscores the cultural practice of mourning together. This moment sets the stage for the miraculous events that follow in the chapter, highlighting the themes of loss, love, and the hope of resurrection. The support from friends and family is crucial in helping individuals cope with grief, reminding us of the value of community in our lives.
How to apply John 11:19 to your life
In times of loss, it is vital to lean on our community for support. Just as Martha and Mary received comfort from their friends, we should reach out to others when we are hurting and also be present for those in need. Offering a listening ear or a helping hand can make a significant difference.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Raising Lazarus (John 11:1–44)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 11:19 mean?
John 11:19 describes how many Jews came to comfort Martha and Mary after the death of their brother Lazarus. This shows the importance of community support during times of grief and highlights the shared experience of mourning.
What is the significance of the Jews visiting Martha and Mary in John 11:19?
The visit from many Jews signifies the strong communal ties and the cultural practice of mourning together. It reflects the compassion and support that friends and family provide during difficult times.
How does John 11:19 relate to themes of grief and support?
John 11:19 illustrates the theme of grief by showing how friends and community members gather to comfort those who are mourning. It highlights the importance of having support from others during times of loss.
What can we learn from John 11:19 about dealing with loss?
From John 11:19, we learn that it is essential to seek and offer support in times of loss. Just as Martha and Mary received comfort from their community, we should reach out to others and be present for those who are grieving.
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