John 11:25–26

Commentary on John 11:25–26

John 11:25–26 (NKJV): “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?’”

The context within John 11: John 11 recounts the story of the raising of Lazarus from the dead. This chapter showcases one of Jesus’ most significant miracles, demonstrating His power over life and death. In these verses, Jesus speaks to Martha, providing profound theological insights into His identity and the promise of eternal life for believers.

Teaching from John 11:25–26

Jesus as the Resurrection and the Life: Jesus’ declaration, “I am the resurrection and the life,” is one of the seven “I am” statements in the Gospel of John. This self-identification points to Jesus as the source of both resurrection and eternal life. This underscores the foundational belief that Jesus alone holds the power over life and death. His resurrection is the guarantee of the believer’s future resurrection, aligning with the doctrine of the resurrection of the body (1 Corinthians 15:20–22).

Belief and Eternal Life: The phrase, “He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live,” emphasises the promise of eternal life through faith in Christ. This belief is not merely intellectual assent but a deep trust and reliance on Jesus for salvation. This teaching affirms the doctrine of justification by faith alone (sola fide), where faith in Christ leads to eternal life even beyond physical death (Romans 5:1).

Assurance of Eternal Life: Jesus continues, “And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.” This promise provides assurance of eternal life for believers. This is understood as the perseverance of the saints, where those who truly believe will be kept by God’s power and receive eternal life (John 10:28–29). This assurance is a source of comfort and hope for Christians facing the reality of death.

Application to Modern Christian Living

Embracing the Assurance of Eternal Life: Believers are called to live with the confidence and assurance of eternal life in Christ. This involves trusting in Jesus’ promise and finding peace in the face of mortality. It encourages Christians to live with an eternal perspective, prioritising their relationship with God and the things of eternal value (2 Corinthians 4:16–18).

Proclaiming the Resurrection: The declaration that Jesus is the resurrection and the life compels believers to share this hope with others. This involves evangelism and the proclamation of the Gospel, offering the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ to a world in need. It is a call to bear witness to the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection (1 Peter 3:15).

Living a Life of Faith: The teaching of John 11:25–26 encourages believers to live a life characterised by faith in Jesus. This faith manifests in trust, obedience, and reliance on Christ in all circumstances. It calls Christians to deepen their relationship with Jesus, seeking to know Him more and follow His ways (Galatians 2:20).

In conclusion, John 11:25-26 provides profound insights into Jesus’ identity as the resurrection and the life, and the promise of eternal life through faith in Him. These verses emphasise the importance of faith, the assurance of eternal life, and the transformative power of the resurrection. They call believers to live with confidence, proclaim the hope of the Gospel, and deepen their faith in Christ.