New Testament
John 11:29
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When Mary heard this, she got up quickly and went to him.
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As soon as she heard that, she arose quickly, and came unto him.
What John 11:29 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Mary receives news about Jesus and responds immediately. Her quick action shows her urgency and desire to be with Him, reflecting her deep faith and love. This moment highlights the emotional intensity of the situation, as Mary is likely feeling grief over her brother Lazarus's death. Her decision to go to Jesus demonstrates her belief that He can provide comfort and possibly perform a miracle. This response is significant as it illustrates the human tendency to seek out those who can offer support in times of distress. Mary's actions also set the stage for the powerful events that follow, where Jesus reveals His authority over life and death. This verse encapsulates the theme of faith in action, as Mary does not hesitate to approach Jesus, showing her trust in Him despite her sorrow.
How to apply John 11:29 to your life
When faced with difficult situations, we can learn from Mary's example to act quickly and seek out Jesus. This teaches us the importance of turning to God in our times of need, trusting that He can provide comfort and guidance. Our faith should prompt us to take action, just as Mary did.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Raising Lazarus (John 11:1–44)
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Jesus
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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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 11:29 mean?
John 11:29 describes Mary’s immediate response to the news about Jesus. Her quick action reflects her urgency and deep faith, showing her desire to seek comfort from Him during a time of grief.
What is the significance of Mary getting up quickly in John 11:29?
Mary getting up quickly signifies her strong emotional response and faith in Jesus. It highlights her belief that He can provide the support she needs in her time of sorrow.
How does John 11:29 relate to themes of faith and action?
John 11:29 illustrates the theme of faith in action, as Mary does not hesitate to approach Jesus. Her quick decision to seek Him out demonstrates how faith can motivate us to take action in difficult times.
What can we learn from Mary in John 11:29?
From Mary’s example in John 11:29, we learn the importance of seeking Jesus promptly in our struggles. Her response encourages us to trust in God’s ability to provide comfort and guidance when we face challenges.
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