Martha’s great “Statement of Faith” sounds a lot like John’s “Purpose for Writing” his whole Gospel! “And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written, that ye might believe that JESUS IS THE CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD; and that believing ye might have life through his name.” John 20:30-31, King James Version.

In fact, John has filled this fourth Gospel with such great Proclamations about Jesus!

John the Baptist … “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1:29

Andrew … “We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ.” John 1:41

Phillip … “We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” John 1:45

Nathaniel … “Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel.” John 1:49

The Samaritans … “This is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.” John 4:42

Peter … “Thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.” John 6:69

And I just can’t omit Thomas … “My Lord and my God.” John 20:28

Wow!

Martha was so honest with Jesus; “Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.” But we are taught to behave (and pray) like this: “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” 1 Peter 5:7

The Psalmists sure were “open” with the Lord! “How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me? How long shall I take counsel in my soul, having sorrow in my heart daily? how long shall mine enemy be exalted over me?” Psalm 13:1-2, pretty bold!

Let me tell you in advance what Jesus is going to do at Lazarus’ grave … “To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.” Isaiah 61:3

It is true. Martha’s faith “wavers” during this hard time in her life, the death of her brother.

From a low point … “Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.” Verse 21 of our chapter, John 11.

To this HIGH Point … “Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.” Verse 27, glorious!

Our faith cannot afford to be static, dormant … it must be constantly growing!

Oh, how I enjoyed today’s Lesson, recorded in a corner of a motel room in Conover, North Carolina. But the Lord joined me there, how sweet was the fellowship!

Now I invite you to watch the entire class …

— Dr. Mike Bagwell

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