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“Lord, if he is sleeping
In Jewish culture, sleep was often used as a metaphor for death, as seen in other scriptural references (e.g.,Daniel 12:2,1 Thessalonians 4:14). The disciples' literal interpretation of sleep here shows their lack of understanding of Jesus' deeper meaning. Sleep, in this context, is a euphemism for death, indicating that Lazarus has died, but Jesus intends to awaken him, symbolizing resurrection.

he will get better.”
The disciples' response reflects a common belief that sleep is restorative and beneficial for recovery from illness. They assume that if Lazarus is merely sleeping, he will naturally recover without the need for Jesus to intervene. This highlights their misunderstanding of the situation and Jesus' power over life and death. It also sets the stage for Jesus to demonstrate His authority over death, foreshadowing His own resurrection and affirming His identity as the resurrection and the life (John 11:25).

• The disciples’ answer shows an honest, human reaction to Jesus’ earlier words. They interpret His statement about Lazarus’s “sleep” literally, much like they had done before with His teaching on bread (John 6:52).

• Their response highlights the continual dialogue between the Lord and His followers, illustrating that growth often comes through questions and corrections (cf.Mark 4:10, 34).

• Scripture consistently depicts believers needing progressive understanding; even after the resurrection, Jesus “opened their minds to understand the Scriptures” (Luke 24:45).

• By addressing Jesus as “Lord,” the disciples acknowledge His authority and their dependency on Him, even while misunderstanding His meaning (John 13:13).

• The title reinforces that whatever misunderstanding follows is not due to disrespect but limited insight. Elsewhere, true discipleship embraces Christ’s lordship even before full comprehension (Luke 5:5;Acts 10:14).

•Philippians 2:11 affirms that “every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,” bolstering the truth that recognizing His lordship is foundational, though perfect knowledge comes progressively (1 Corinthians 13:12).

• The disciples equate “sleep” with natural rest, believing rest aids recovery (Psalm 127:2).

• Jesus often used “sleep” as a gentle metaphor for death, as He does moments earlier: “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I am going there to wake him up” (John 11:11). Other passages do likewise (Daniel 12:2;1 Thessalonians 4:13–14).

• Their literal interpretation underscores the gap between earthly reasoning and heavenly perspective, reminding believers to look beyond surface meanings to spiritual truths (1 Corinthians 2:14).

• The disciples assume natural processes are sufficient. Rest leads to healing in many biblical accounts (Mark 4:38–39 shows Jesus calming a storm so His exhausted followers could rest).

• Yet Jesus plans a greater demonstration of His glory through resurrection, not mere recovery. Earlier He declared, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for the glory of God” (John 11:4).

• Their optimism parallels other instances of partial faith—Jairus hoped Jesus would heal his daughter (Mark 5:23), but Christ exceeded that hope by raising her from death.

•James 5:15 reminds believers that “the prayer offered in faith will restore the sick,” yet God sometimes chooses extraordinary means so “that you may believe” (John 11:15).

John 11:12 captures sincere yet limited understanding. The disciples, calling Jesus “Lord,” assume Lazarus’s natural sleep will aid recovery. Their reply showcases how believers often interpret spiritual statements through an earthly lens, needing Christ’s clarification. The verse sets the stage for Jesus to reveal His power over death, moving His followers from partial insight to deeper faith in His sovereignty and resurrection authority.

If he sleep, he shall do well.--More exactly,If he be fallen asleep, he shall be saved. There could be, therefore, no reason for His going, as the disease had passed the crisis. Sleep is given by the Rabbis as one of six favourable symptoms, and that it is so is a common-place in authors of all periods. From the apparent suddenness of the attack, and rapidity of the progress of the disease, it would seem to have been the "great fever" which was common in Palestine (comp.John 4:52, and especially Note onLuke 4:38), and in which sleep would be the sign that the fever had ceased.