Meaning of John 11:7

Jesus’ statement in John 11:7, "Let us go back to Judea," is a pivotal moment that reveals his unwavering resolve and profound love in the face of imminent danger, specifically in response to the news of Lazarus's illness. This declaration is not a casual suggestion but a deliberate decision made with full awareness of the hostility he had recently faced in Jerusalem, where the Jews had taken up stones to throw at him (John 10:31). His disciples, understandably apprehensive, recall this recent peril, prompting Jesus’ resolute statement, which underscores his commitment to fulfilling his divine mission, even if it means confronting death.

Context and Background

The immediate context is the report brought to Jesus that his beloved friend Lazarus is gravely ill. Jesus, who had been ministering in Perea (east of the Jordan River), receives this news. However, instead of immediately departing, he famously delays for two more days. This delay is not an oversight but a deliberate act, allowing Lazarus to die so that God's glory might be revealed through his resurrection (John 11:4). When Jesus finally proposes returning to Judea, it is to the very region where his life was threatened. His disciples' reaction, "Rabbi, the Jews were just now trying to stone you, and you are going back there?" (John 11:8), highlights the palpable danger and their natural fear.

Key Themes and Messages

Several key themes emerge from this verse:

• Divine Purpose over Personal Safety: Jesus prioritizes God's will and the demonstration of His power above his own safety. His return to Judea is not reckless but purposeful, aimed at revealing the resurrection and the life that is in Him.
• Unwavering Resolve: Despite knowing the risks, Jesus is determined to go. This demonstrates a steadfast commitment to his mission and to the individuals he loves.
• Love and Compassion: Jesus’ decision to return, even to danger, is motivated by his deep love for Lazarus and his sisters, Mary and Martha. He does not abandon them in their time of need.
• Faith in the Face of Fear: Jesus calls his disciples to a higher level of faith, urging them to move beyond their immediate fears and trust in God's plan.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This verse offers profound spiritual lessons. For believers, it illustrates the call to step out of comfort zones and face challenges for the sake of God's kingdom and for the love of others. It encourages a paradigm shift from self-preservation to selfless service, where obedience to God's calling supersedes personal security. Jesus' willingness to enter a dangerous situation to bring life and glory to God serves as a model for how Christians should approach difficult circumstances, trusting that God's purposes will ultimately prevail. It teaches that true spiritual growth often involves confronting fear and acting in faith, even when the path is perilous.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

Jesus' statement and subsequent actions are central to the unfolding narrative of his messianic identity and his mission of salvation. The resurrection of Lazarus (John 11:43-44) becomes a powerful sign pointing to Jesus' own resurrection and his authority over death. This event significantly escalates the conflict with the religious authorities, directly contributing to the plot to kill him (John 11:47-53). Thus, Jesus’ decision to return to Judea, though seemingly a step into danger, is a critical element in the divine plan that leads to the crucifixion and resurrection, the very heart of the Gospel.

Analogies

One analogy for Jesus' decision is that of a surgeon who, knowing the risks of a complex operation, willingly enters the operating room to save a life. The surgeon's focus is not on personal comfort or safety but on the well-being of the patient and the successful outcome of the procedure. Another analogy is a general leading troops into a dangerous battle, not out of recklessness, but because it is strategically necessary to achieve a greater victory, trusting in their training and God's guidance.

Relation to Other Verses

This verse resonates with other passages that highlight Jesus' divine purpose and his willingness to embrace suffering for the sake of humanity:

• John 10:11: "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." This verse foreshadows Jesus' ultimate sacrifice, a sacrifice he willingly moves towards by entering danger in John 11.
• Matthew 16:21: "From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life." This prophecy sets the stage for Jesus’ deliberate movement towards Jerusalem and its associated dangers, as seen in John 11.
• Hebrews 12:2: "fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." This verse speaks to the "joy set before him" which motivated Jesus, a joy that clearly included the resurrection of Lazarus and the ultimate salvation of humanity, driving his actions even when faced with peril.