John 11:12
Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well.
Original Language Analysis
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτοῦ,
his
G846
αὐτοῦ,
his
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
5 of 9
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
Κύριε
Lord
G2962
Κύριε
Lord
Strong's:
G2962
Word #:
6 of 9
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
Historical Context
Ancient medicine recognized natural sleep as healing. The disciples' response reflects common medical understanding that fever-induced sleep often preceded recovery.
Questions for Reflection
- What spiritual truths do we miss by interpreting God's word too literally or naturally?
- How does the disciples' misunderstanding demonstrate our need for the Spirit's illumination?
- In what areas might we be misunderstanding Christ's teaching through naturalistic thinking?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The disciples misunderstand Jesus' metaphor, taking 'sleep' literally. Their response reveals natural hope: if Lazarus sleeps, recovery is likely. The Greek 'sothesetai' (shall do well/recover) indicates physical healing. This misunderstanding serves pedagogical purpose, forcing Jesus to speak plainly. The disciples' literalism demonstrates humanity's tendency to interpret divine truth through naturalistic lenses, requiring spiritual illumination.