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Book of John - Chapter 11 - Verse 21

11:21
Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.

Meaning

Martha's statement to Jesus in this verse reflects her deep faith in his ability to perform miracles. By stating that if Jesus had been present her brother would not have died, Martha is expressing her belief in Jesus' power to heal the sick and prevent death. This verse showcases Martha's recognition of Jesus as a powerful and divine being, capable of performing miraculous acts. It also highlights her grief over the loss of her brother, as she expresses regret that Jesus was not there to prevent his death. Overall, Martha's words convey a complex mix of faith, sorrow, and hope in the face of tragedy, illustrating the depth of her relationship with Jesus and her understanding of his divine nature.

Theological Overview

Martha's statement to Jesus, "Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died," reflects a deep theological interpretation of the power of Jesus to heal and perform miracles. In this context, Martha's words express her belief in Jesus' ability to prevent tragedy and her faith in his divine authority. The use of the word "Lord" signifies Martha's recognition of Jesus as a figure of authority and reverence, affirming her understanding of his status as the Son of God. Additionally, the phrase "if thou hadst been here" implies a sense of regret and longing for Jesus' presence during her brother's illness, highlighting Martha's conviction that his physical presence could have saved her brother's life. Through this emotional plea, Martha demonstrates her belief in Jesus' miraculous abilities and reveals her deep trust in his power to overcome death.

American Standard Version

Martha therefore said unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.
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