New Testament
John 11:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was for two more days.
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When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was.
What John 11:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a surprising response from Jesus upon hearing about Lazarus's illness. Instead of rushing to help his friend, Jesus chooses to stay where he is for two more days. This decision may seem puzzling, especially since Lazarus was gravely ill. However, it highlights Jesus's divine purpose and timing. He was not merely reacting to the situation but was instead waiting for the right moment to demonstrate God's glory through Lazarus's eventual resurrection. This act serves as a reminder that God's timing is often different from our own expectations. While we may desire immediate answers or interventions in our lives, Jesus teaches us to trust in His plan, which may unfold in ways we do not understand at first. This moment sets the stage for a powerful revelation of Jesus's identity and authority over life and death, reinforcing the belief that He is the source of hope and resurrection.
How to apply John 11:6 to your life
When faced with difficult situations, we often want immediate solutions. This verse encourages us to trust in God's timing, even when it seems delayed. We can find peace in knowing that God has a purpose for our struggles and that His plans are ultimately for our good.
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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 John 11:6 mean?
John 11:6 shows Jesus's choice to delay his visit to Lazarus despite hearing about his illness. This decision emphasizes the importance of divine timing and suggests that Jesus had a greater purpose in mind, which would ultimately reveal God's glory.
Why did Jesus wait two days in John 11:6?
Jesus waited two days after hearing about Lazarus's sickness to demonstrate that His timing is different from human expectations. This delay allowed for a greater miracle, showcasing His power over death when He eventually raised Lazarus.
What is the significance of John 11:6?
The significance of John 11:6 lies in its illustration of Jesus's divine authority and the concept of trusting in God's timing. It teaches that even in urgent situations, God's plans may unfold in unexpected ways for a greater purpose.
How does John 11:6 relate to faith?
John 11:6 relates to faith by highlighting the need to trust in God's timing, even when immediate action seems necessary. It encourages believers to have faith that God has a plan, even when circumstances appear dire.
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