John 12:2
There they made him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him.
Original Language Analysis
ἐποίησαν
they made
G4160
ἐποίησαν
they made
Strong's:
G4160
Word #:
1 of 17
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
οὖν
G3767
αὐτῷ
him
G846
αὐτῷ
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
3 of 17
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
δεῖπνον
a supper
G1173
δεῖπνον
a supper
Strong's:
G1173
Word #:
4 of 17
dinner, i.e., the chief meal (usually in the evening)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
6 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
διηκόνει
served
G1247
διηκόνει
served
Strong's:
G1247
Word #:
9 of 17
to be an attendant, i.e., wait upon (menially or as a host, friend, or (figuratively) teacher); technically, to act as a christian deacon
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
15 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Revelation 3:20Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.Luke 22:27For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.Mark 14:3And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head.
Historical Context
Reclining at table was standard first-century dining posture for formal meals. Martha's serving role was appropriate for women hosting guests, though Jesus had earlier affirmed Mary's right to learn (Luke 10:42).
Questions for Reflection
- How does Lazarus' silent presence at the table testify to resurrection power?
- What does the contrast between this supper and the Sanhedrin's plotting teach about kingdom values?
- In what ways does Christian fellowship preview eternal glory?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
They prepare a supper honoring Jesus, with Martha serving (consistent with her character, Luke 10:40). Lazarus' presence at the table demonstrates resurrection's reality—he lives, eats, and fellowships. His silent presence testifies more powerfully than words. Martha's service shows genuine hospitality, not mere duty. The meal's fellowship dimension contrasts the Sanhedrin's murder plot. This supper embodies kingdom values: resurrection life, loving service, intimate communion. It previews the marriage supper of the Lamb.