New Testament
John 11:28
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After saying this, she went back and called her sister Mary aside, saying quietly, "The Teacher is here and is asking for you."
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And when she had so said, she went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, The Master is come, and calleth for thee.
What John 11:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Martha, after speaking with Jesus about her brother Lazarus, goes to find her sister Mary. She does this quietly, indicating the sensitive nature of the situation. Martha refers to Jesus as 'The Teacher' or 'The Master,' showing her respect and recognition of His authority. By calling Mary aside, Martha likely wants to share the news without drawing attention, as the atmosphere is filled with grief over Lazarus's death. This moment highlights the personal relationship between Jesus and the sisters, as well as the urgency of the situation. Martha's action reflects her faith in Jesus and her desire for Mary to encounter Him, who has the power to bring hope and healing. This verse sets the stage for the unfolding events of Jesus' miraculous act of raising Lazarus from the dead, emphasizing the importance of faith and the personal call to follow Jesus.
How to apply John 11:28 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of personal relationships in our faith journey. Just as Martha called Mary to Jesus, we can invite others to experience His presence and healing. It reminds us to be sensitive to others' needs and to share the hope we find in Christ.
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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
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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 Martha mean by calling Jesus 'The Teacher'?
Martha refers to Jesus as 'The Teacher' to show her respect and acknowledgment of His authority. This title reflects her understanding of Jesus' role in her life and the lives of others, emphasizing His wisdom and ability to guide them through their grief.
Why did Martha call Mary aside quietly?
Martha called Mary aside quietly to avoid drawing attention to their conversation, recognizing the sensitive atmosphere surrounding Lazarus's death. This approach highlights the personal nature of their relationship with Jesus and the urgency of the situation, as Martha wanted to ensure Mary had the opportunity to meet Jesus without added stress.
What is the significance of Martha's action in this verse?
Martha's action of calling Mary to Jesus signifies her faith in Him and her desire for her sister to experience His presence and potential healing. It illustrates the importance of community and support in times of grief, as well as the personal invitation to encounter Jesus, who offers hope in difficult circumstances.
How does this verse relate to themes of faith and hope?
This verse encapsulates themes of faith and hope as Martha's invitation to Mary reflects her belief in Jesus' power to bring healing and restoration. It encourages believers to share their faith with others, especially during challenging times, highlighting the transformative impact of encountering Jesus.
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