John 11:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
John 11:2
2 (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.)
Chapter Context
John 11 is a theological gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of love, grace, truth. Written during the late first century CE (c. 90-95 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed late first-century challenges from both Judaism and emerging Gnostic thought.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-57: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within John and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
John 11:2
2 (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.)
Analysis
This verse identifies Mary as the one who anointed Jesus, an event not yet recorded in John's narrative but described in chapter 12. The Gospel writer assumes readers' familiarity with this story, suggesting the Gospel's later composition. The mention establishes the family's devotion to Christ and foreshadows Mary's act of worship. John's retrospective reference demonstrates divine sovereignty in narrative arrangement.
Historical Context
Written decades after the events, John's Gospel assumes knowledge of Jesus' ministry. Bethany was a village about two miles from Jerusalem, serving as Jesus' base during His final visits to the city.
Reflection
- How does John's assumption of reader knowledge challenge us to study the whole Gospel narrative?
- What does Mary's later anointing reveal about the family's relationship with Jesus?
- How does this retrospective reference demonstrate God's sovereignty in Scripture's composition?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master