JOHN 11:17–27
“I AM THE RESURRECTION AND THE LIFE”: FAITH IN THE MIDST OF GRIEF
Text – John 11:17–27
17 When Jesus arrived, he found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days.
18 Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, only about two miles away.
19 And many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them about their brother.
20 When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went to meet him; but Mary sat at home.
21 Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.
22 But even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you.”
23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise.”
24 Martha said to him, “I know he will rise, in the resurrection on the last day.”
25 Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live,
26 and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
27 She said to him, “Yes, Lord. I have come to believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world.”
Historical and Jewish Context
By the time Jesus arrives, Lazarus has been dead four days, underscoring the finality of death according to Jewish understanding. A common belief held that the soul lingered near the body for three days; the fourth day emphasized irreversible death. Mourning customs involved extended periods of communal lament, explaining the presence of many visitors. Jewish theology clearly affirmed a general resurrection at the end of time (cf. Daniel 12:2), which Martha expresses faithfully. Jesus now moves beyond this shared belief to reveal something radically new about Himself.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage contains one of the most profound Christological revelations in the Gospel. Jesus does not merely teach about resurrection—He identifies Himself as its source. Catholic theology affirms that eternal life is not only a future event but a present reality rooted in union with Christ. Faith in Jesus conquers death because He is Life itself. Martha’s confession mirrors Peter’s earlier profession of faith and represents the Church’s confession: Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Belief here is personal, relational, and transformative.
Parallels in Scripture
Daniel 12:2 – Resurrection at the end of time.
Isaiah 25:8 – God swallowing up death forever.
John 5:24–29 – Jesus giving life and raising the dead.
1 Thessalonians 4:14 – God bringing the dead to life in Christ.
Revelation 21:4 – Death shall be no more.
Key Terms
Four days – Finality of death by human standards.
Resurrection – Victory over death.
Life – Divine life shared with believers.
Believe – Personal trust in Christ.
Christ / Son of God – Messianic and divine identity of Jesus.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This Gospel is proclaimed during Lent, especially in Year A, and frequently at funerals. The Church uses this passage to proclaim Christian hope in the resurrection and the living presence of Christ amid grief.
Conclusion
John 11:17–27 reveals Jesus as the Lord of life standing face to face with death. In the midst of sorrow, He invites faith not only in a future resurrection but in Himself as the Resurrection and the Life. Martha’s confession becomes a model of faith for every believer.
Reflection
Do I believe in Jesus as the source of life here and now?
How does my faith speak when I face grief and loss?
Can I echo Martha’s confession with trust and hope?
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, Resurrection and Life, strengthen my faith when I face sorrow and death. Help me to believe in You not only for the future, but in the present moments of my life. May my hope rest firmly in You, the Son of God who conquers death forever. Amen.