The Resurrection and the Life
St John 11:25-26
Jesus utters these remarks to Martha in proximity to Lazarus's tomb. Her brother has been deceased for four days. The odor of death, the torment of postponement, and the acceptance of loss permeate the atmosphere. Jesus, however, contradicts her understanding of time, existence, and conclusiveness. He proclaims, “I am the resurrection and the life.” Not merely a forthcoming occurrence, not solely a belief system, but a current being to rely upon.
Through the Greek emphatic "egō eimi" ("I am"), Jesus alludes to the divine name disclosed to Moses in Exodus 3:14. He exists not merely as the Son of God but as God incarnate, wielding dominion over death itself. His declaration distinguishes believers from non-believers, basing eternal life on individual faith.
Observe the two clauses: • “Though he were dead, yet shall he live.” This confirms resurrection following physical demise. “Whoever lives and believes in me shall never perish.” This confirms a spiritual existence that is unbroken by death.
Jesus encourages Martha—and us—to place our faith in His character, not merely His capabilities. He concludes with an inquiry: “Do you believe this?” Faith beyond mere assent to reality; it involves placing one's confidence in the one who governs life and death.
• Christ as the Resurrection: He presents resurrection not merely as a future promise but as an immediate actuality through Himself.
• Faith as the Precipice: Eternal life commences presently for believers.
• Life Beyond the Grave: The physical demise of a believer does not conclude their existence.
• A Personal Inquiry: Jesus continues to pose the question, “Do you believe this?”—requiring an individual response.
• The Influence of Presence: Jesus enters, communicates, and transforms circumstances—even in the face of death.
#Ministry #jesus #bible #worship #faith #hope #love #church #prayer #gospel #christian #family #motivation #inspiration #holyspirit #power #christ #jesuschrist #purpose #godisgood #inspire #instagood #outreach #evangelism #bibleverse #encouragement #dailyinspiration