New Testament
John 11:46
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But some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done.
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But some of them went their ways to the Pharisees, and told them what things Jesus had done.
What John 11:46 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a group of people who witnessed Jesus perform a miracle, specifically the raising of Lazarus from the dead. Instead of believing in Jesus or spreading the good news, some individuals chose to report this event to the Pharisees, the religious leaders of the time. This action highlights a significant tension between the followers of Jesus and the established religious authorities. The Pharisees were already threatened by Jesus' growing influence and miracles, and this report would likely lead to further scrutiny and opposition against Him. This moment illustrates the differing responses to Jesus' ministry; while some were moved to faith, others were motivated by fear or jealousy, leading them to inform the Pharisees. This verse sets the stage for the escalating conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders, ultimately culminating in His crucifixion. It serves as a reminder of how people can react differently to the same event based on their beliefs and motivations.
How to apply John 11:46 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our responses to the works of God in our lives. Are we sharing the good news and testifying to His miracles, or are we hesitant and fearful of the consequences? We should strive to be bold in our faith and witness.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Plot to Kill Jesus (John 11:45–57)
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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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Keep studying John 11:46
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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 11:46 reveal about people's reactions to Jesus' miracles?
John 11:46 highlights the contrasting responses to Jesus' miracles. While some witnesses were inspired to believe in Him, others chose to report His actions to the Pharisees, reflecting fear and jealousy. This illustrates the tension between faith and opposition, showing that miracles can evoke different reactions based on individual beliefs and motivations.
Why did some people report Jesus to the Pharisees in John 11:46?
The individuals who reported Jesus to the Pharisees were likely motivated by fear of the religious authorities and jealousy of Jesus' growing influence. Instead of embracing the miracle of Lazarus' resurrection, they chose to align with the established religious leaders, which indicates a conflict between faith in Jesus and adherence to traditional authority.
What is the significance of the Pharisees in John 11:46?
The Pharisees represent the established religious authority that felt threatened by Jesus' ministry and miracles. Their role in this verse underscores the escalating conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders, which ultimately contributes to the events leading to His crucifixion. This highlights the struggle between new faith and traditional beliefs.
How can we apply the message of John 11:46 to our lives today?
John 11:46 encourages us to examine our own responses to God's works in our lives. It challenges us to be bold in sharing our faith and the miracles we witness, rather than succumbing to fear or societal pressures. This verse serves as a reminder to actively testify to God's goodness and to choose faith over fear.
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