Approaching the Bible [Part 10]: The Gospel of John 11–21

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From Death to Life, from Sorrow to Glory

As we continue through the Gospel of John, the final chapters bring us face-to-face with the deepest expressions of Christ’s love, power, and purpose. These passages are more than history — they are a divine invitation to experience new life, to believe, and to walk in the fullness of God’s grace.

The Power of Resurrection — John 11

The story of Lazarus stands as one of the most breathtaking moments in Scripture. When Jesus hears of Lazarus’s illness, He delays His arrival — not out of indifference, but intention. What seems like neglect becomes a display of divine timing. When He finally stands before the tomb, His voice cuts through the silence of death:

“Lazarus, come out.”

In that instant, the impossible happens — death releases its grip. Jesus demonstrates that He is not only a healer of bodies, but the Lord of life itself. His words echo across every generation:

“I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live.” — John 11:25

This miracle prepares us for what’s to come — the resurrection that will change eternity.

The Road to the Cross — John 12–19

As Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey, the crowds shout “Hosanna!” yet within days, their praises turn to rejection. This contrast captures the human heart — quick to celebrate, slow to understand.

In the upper room, Jesus reveals a love that serves. He kneels to wash His disciples’ feet, teaching that true greatness is found in humility. His farewell discourse (John 14–17) is a masterpiece of divine intimacy — promising the coming of the Holy Spirit, reminding them that He is the vine and they are the branches, and praying that His followers would be one as He and the Father are one.

Then comes betrayal. Arrest. Denial. Beating. Crucifixion. The weight of the world falls upon His shoulders, and the light of the world seems to fade. Yet, even as He hangs on the cross, every breath is filled with purpose. He forgives. He fulfills prophecy. And when He declares, “It is finished,” He seals the covenant that frees humanity from sin and death forever.

The Triumph of Life — John 20–21

The story doesn’t end in the tomb. On the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene arrives to find the stone rolled away. Confusion turns to wonder, and sorrow turns to praise when she hears her name spoken by the risen Lord. That single moment changes everything — a personal encounter with the living Christ.

Thomas, often remembered for his doubt, is also remembered for his honesty. Jesus meets him where he is — showing His wounds, proving His reality, and gently calling him to faith.

“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” — John 20:29

In the final chapter, we see restoration. Peter, who once denied Jesus three times, is given three chances to affirm his love. Jesus doesn’t shame him — He commissions him: “Feed my sheep.” What once felt like failure becomes the foundation for Peter’s calling.

Faith Beyond Sight

John closes his Gospel with this purpose:

“These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.” — John 20:31

This isn’t just a conclusion — it’s a call. The story of John 11–21 invites us to trust in the same power that raised Lazarus, the same love that endured the cross, and the same hope that rolled away the stone.

When we face darkness, Jesus still whispers our name. When we stumble, He still restores. When we doubt, He still invites us closer.

Let every believer remember: the Gospel of John ends where our faith begins — not at the cross, but at the empty tomb.