Book of John - Chapter 11 - Verse 15

These words were spoken by Jesus to his disciples, expressing his gladness that he was not present at the time of their friend Lazarus's illness and subsequent death. He explains that his absence was for the purpose of strengthening their belief in him and his power. Jesus knew that witnessing the miracle of Lazarus being raised from the dead would greatly increase the disciples' faith. Despite the situation being challenging and heartbreaking, Jesus saw the greater importance of using it to demonstrate his divine abilities and the necessity of having unwavering faith. Jesus reassures his disciples that despite the difficult circumstances, they should continue on their journey to see Lazarus. This verse serves as a reminder of Jesus's power to perform miracles and the importance of faith in believing in him. It also highlights the significance of trusting in God's timing and purposes, even when things may seem difficult or confusing.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse, "And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him," it is essential to note the emphasis on belief and faith. By expressing gladness that he was not present during the illness of Lazarus, Jesus is able to use the situation to strengthen the faith of his disciples. The intention behind this statement is to deepen their belief in his power and divinity. Through this act, Jesus is not only demonstrating his ability to perform miracles but also encouraging his followers to have unwavering faith in him.

Additionally, a key word study that stands out in this verse is "believe." The concept of belief, or faith, is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. In this context, belief is linked to experiencing the miraculous power of Jesus firsthand. By demonstrating faith and trust in Jesus, the disciples are ultimately able to witness his works and further solidify their conviction in him as the Son of God. This emphasizes the significance of faith as a cornerstone in the relationship between Jesus and his followers, showcasing the transformative power of belief in strengthening spiritual connections.