New Testament
John 11:3
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So the sisters sent a message to Jesus: "Lord, the one you love is sick."
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Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick.
What John 11:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see the deep bond between Jesus and Lazarus, who is referred to as 'the one you love.' The sisters, Mary and Martha, are reaching out to Jesus in a time of crisis, indicating their trust in Him. They do not demand His presence but simply inform Him of Lazarus's illness, showing their understanding of His love and power. This moment highlights the importance of communication in relationships, especially in times of need. The sisters' message reflects their faith that Jesus can help, even from a distance. It sets the stage for the miraculous events that follow, emphasizing that Jesus cares deeply for those He loves. This verse invites readers to consider their own relationships and how they reach out for help in difficult times, reminding us that expressing our needs to God is a vital part of faith.
How to apply John 11:3 to your life
When facing challenges, like illness or distress, we can follow the example of Mary and Martha by reaching out to Jesus in prayer. It’s important to express our needs and trust in His love and power to help us through difficult times.
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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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Related topics
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 11:3 mean?
John 11:3 shows the deep relationship between Jesus and Lazarus, highlighting the trust Mary and Martha have in Him during a crisis. They inform Jesus of Lazarus's sickness, believing He can help, which emphasizes the importance of communication in times of need.
What is the significance of 'the one you love' in John 11:3?
The phrase 'the one you love' signifies the close bond between Jesus and Lazarus, illustrating the personal nature of Jesus's relationships. It reflects the love and care Jesus has for His friends, which is central to the narrative.
How can I apply John 11:3 in my life?
You can apply John 11:3 by reaching out to Jesus in prayer during difficult times, just like Mary and Martha did. Expressing your needs and trusting in His love can provide comfort and support in crises.
What themes are present in John 11:3?
Key themes in John 11:3 include love, faith, communication, trust, and the importance of reaching out for help during crises. These themes highlight the relational aspect of faith and the power of prayer.
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