John 11:30-37

John 11:30-37

1. We learn how great a blessing God sometimes bestows on actions of kindness and sympathy.
2. We learn what a depth of tender sympathy there is in Christ’s heart towards His people.

"Few are aware that one secret of being miserable is to live only for ourselves and one secret of being happy is to try to make others happy and to do a little good in the world."

"To be cold and stoical and unmoved in the sight of sorrow is no sign of grace. There is nothing unworthy of a child of God in tears. Even the Son of God could weep. It shows us above all that the Saviour in whom believers trust is a most tender and feeling Saviour."

Questions:

1. We see mourners joined Mary and Martha in the passing of their brother Lazarus. Ryle points out that, because they did this, that day was likely the day of salvation for many with the miracle that followed. Ryle highlights that there is often blessings that follow those who live for the good of others. Have we known this to be true in our own lives?
2. We find that Jesus, though he knew exactly what he would do, wept for the loss of Lazarus. Ryle points out that this Jesus hasn't changed, that he is one who feels and sympathizes for our weaknesses and losses. Do we know this about our Savior or do we have a picture of him being stoic and unmoved when we suffer? How about our walking in his footsteps? Do we have a tender heart like our Savior? Weeping and truly sympathizing with others is hard, but do we have evidence of walking this path with others like our Savior?