Thoughts on the Gospel of John (96) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?
John 11:25.26.

Thoughts on the Gospel of John (96)
Martha had twice told the Lord: "I know " She had no doubt that her brother Lazarus would rise again at the last day. But it was not that future point in time that the Lord meant. He was going to perform a miracle there and then. Believing that was harder than what He would do in the future.

The "I AM", eternal life itself, was standing there before that woman in mourning. Jesus is the resurrection and the life Himself in person. Whoever believes in Him will experience what many people merely dream of: never dying.

That everyone, whether a believer or not, has an eternal existence is clear; but Jesus was not speaking of that at the time. Only believers are meant here. They are divided into two groups: those dead and those alive. Believers of the first group will be raised to life after their death. Just as Christ rose again, so they, too, will experience His life-giving power. (cf. Romans 8:11).

It is said of the second group that they will never die, i.e. they will not taste death in its final character. For them death is the entrance to paradise to be with Christ, "which is far better" (Philippians 1:23).

Some of these believers will, moreover, not die. They will be changed directly at the rapture (1 Corinthians 15:51.52).

"Do you believe this?" was the challenging question put to Martha. It is also addressed to every reader. What will your answer be?

(to be continued next Sunday)

Today's reading: Leviticus 16:1-22 · Psalms 64:1-10