John 11:15
And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
χαίρω
I am glad
G5463
χαίρω
I am glad
Strong's:
G5463
Word #:
2 of 14
to be "cheer"ful, i.e., calmly happy or well-off; impersonally, especially as salutation (on meeting or parting), be well
δι'
for
G1223
δι'
for
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
3 of 14
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
ἵνα
to the intent
G2443
ἵνα
to the intent
Strong's:
G2443
Word #:
5 of 14
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
πιστεύσητε
ye may believe
G4100
πιστεύσητε
ye may believe
Strong's:
G4100
Word #:
6 of 14
to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e., credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to ch
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
7 of 14
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
ἀλλ'
nevertheless
G235
ἀλλ'
nevertheless
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
11 of 14
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
ἄγωμεν
let us go
G71
ἄγωμεν
let us go
Strong's:
G71
Word #:
12 of 14
properly, to lead; by implication, to bring, drive, (reflexively) go, (specially) pass (time), or (figuratively) induce
Cross References
2 Timothy 2:10Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.Isaiah 65:8Thus saith the LORD, As the new wine is found in the cluster, and one saith, Destroy it not; for a blessing is in it: so will I do for my servants' sakes, that I may not destroy them all.Isaiah 54:15Behold, they shall surely gather together, but not by me: whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake.John 11:4When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.John 2:11This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.John 17:19And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.John 12:30Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes.
Historical Context
Jesus' ministry consistently aimed at deepening disciples' faith through signs. John's Gospel emphasizes these signs as faith-producing evidence of Christ's deity.
Questions for Reflection
- How can we find joy in difficult circumstances when we perceive their faith-building purpose?
- What does this teach about God's sovereignty over seemingly insignificant details (timing, location)?
- In what recent difficulties can you see God's purpose to strengthen your faith?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus expresses gladness 'for your sakes'—not about Lazarus' death but about the opportunity for strengthened faith. His absence from Bethany was providential, allowing death to occur and greater glory to result. The purpose clause 'that ye may believe' indicates the miracle's evidential design. This demonstrates God's sovereignty: even Jesus' geographical location serves divine purposes. The phrase anticipates growth in the disciples' faith through witnessing resurrection power.