He is Here: Easter

John 11:17–44

Start by reading verses 17–22.

1. Why did Jesus not immediately go to Bethany?

Do you think it was difficult for Jesus to wait two days?

2. Have you experience times when the Lord seemed "slow" to respond to your prayers? Explain how you felt and acted.

How can these scriptures help us when we feel this way?

3. In verses 21–27, what does Martha say that shows she had faith?

What does she say that exhibits doubt?

Which one of those responses do you find yourself feeling the most often, and why?

4. What does Jesus tell Martha (v. 25) that stretches her faith? How does she react?

Can you remember a time when your faith was stretched?

How did you respond?

Why does Jesus do this?

5. Do you believe Jesus' statement in v. 25?

What does it mean to you?

6. What was Martha's objection when Jesus told them to remove the stone (v. 39)?

Can you think of a time when your natural understanding kept you from seeing a miracle?

7. According to Jesus' statement in v. 40, what do we do to see the glory of God?

Many people say: "Seeing is believing." Jesus tells Martha, "if you believed, you would see the glory of God" (v. 40). What does this mean? Does this have any implication for your life?

8. Does believing in Jesus mean we will never grieve? Explain.

9. What might the grave clothes (v. 44) represent in your life? Where might Jesus be asking you to "take off the grave clothes and let him (her) go"?

10. How does the story of Lazarus' resurrection give you hope?