John 11 - NIV God’s Justice Bible

11:1–16 Jesus’ Strange Love If Jesus loves his friends from Bethany, why does he wait while Lazarus dies? Why is he willing to risk the lives of his fearful disciples by going near the dangerous territory of Jerusalem? The key is in verse 4. The Father’s glory is Jesus’ ultimate concern. God’s agenda is not determined by expectations fostered by our needs or fears. Yet, the need of his friends will be met, while the fears of his disciples are prophetic.

11:38–54 Who Is in Charge? Raising Lazarus from the dead glorifies the Father, and many believe in Jesus. Ironically, bringing Lazarus to life leads to the decision of the religious leaders that Jesus must die. What they consider politically expedient plays into God’s saving plan not only for the Jewish nation, but also for all humanity. In this case, human injustice becomes a vehicle of God’s justice.