John 11:41-44 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father… I. THOSE HE ADDRESSED TO HEAVEN (vers. 41, 42). In these we have — 1. His recognition of God as His Father. He was the Son of God in a higher sense than any other has been or will be. (1) In mutual resemblance. "The express image of His Person." (2) In mutual love. "This is my beloved Son." 2. His consciousness of the Father's regard. Ever in close communion with the Father, to every aspiration He felt the Father's response "always." No true word of prayer is ever lost. 3. His consideration of the people in His devotions. "Because of the people." Audible words, though not essential, and having no influence on God, are often useful to our fellow men. II. THOSE HE ADDRESSED TO THE DEAD (ver. 43). These were — 1. Personal. "Lazarus." 2. Earnest. He could have done it by a whisper or volition, but He raised His voice to the highest pitch to startle bystanders into solemn thought. 3. Mighty. They struck life into the dead. III. THOSE HE ADDRESSED TO THE LIVING (ver. 44). Here again is the human cooperating with the Divine. Conclusion: This resurrection is an illustration of that of a dead soul which can be effected only by Christ, may still be entangled with old associations, habits, etc., and requires in order to its freedom the help of the living. The work of a living church and ministry is to loose encumbered souls. (D. Thomas, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. |
    |