‏ John 11:41-42

 So they took away the stone ( ηραν ουν τον λιθον ). First aorist active indicative of  αιρω, but without the explanatory gloss of the Textus Receptus "from the place where the dead was laid" (not genuine).

 I thank thee that thou heardest me ( ευχαριστω σο οτ ηκουσας μου ). See 6:11 for  ευχαριστεω. Clearly Jesus had prayed to the Father concerning the raising of Lazarus. He has the answer before he acts. "No pomp of incantation, no wrestling in prayer even; but simple words of thanksgiving, as if already Lazarus was restored" (Dods). Jesus well knew the issues involved on this occasion. If he failed, his own claims to be the Son of God (the Messiah), would be hopelessly discredited with all. If he succeeded, the rulers would be so embittered as to compass his own death.

 And I knew ( εγω δε ηιδειν ). Past perfect of  οιδα used as imperfect. This confident knowledge is no new experience with Jesus. It has "always" ( παντοτε ) been so.

 Which standeth around ( τον περιεστωτα ). Second perfect active (intransitive) articular participle of  περιιστημ. It was a picturesque and perilous scene.

 That they may believe ( ινα πιστευσωσιν ). Purpose clause with  ινα and first ingressive aorist active subjunctive of  πιστευω, "that they may come to believe."

 That thou didst send me ( οτ συ με απεστειλας ). First aorist active indicative of  αποστελλω and note position of  συ με side by side. This claim Jesus had long ago made (5:36) and had repeatedly urged (10:25, 38). Here was a supreme opportunity and Jesus opens his heart about it.

Copyright information for RWP