John 11:40

"Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of him who was dead, said to him, “Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.”"

Key Reflection

In this passage, Jesus' command to "take away the stone" symbolically represents removing barriers or obstacles that prevent spiritual renewal and life. Martha's response highlights the decay of death, but Jesus emphasizes that even in such circumstances, divine power can bring about resurrection and new life.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 40. Said I not unto thee. This was implied in what he had said about the resurrection of her brother, Joh 11:23-25. There would be a manifestation of the glory of God in raising him up which she would be permitted, with all others, to behold. The glory of God. The power and goodness displayed in the resurrection. It is probable that Martha did not really expect that Jesus would raise him up, but supposed that he went there merely to see the corpse. Hence, when he directed them to take away the stone, she suggested that by that time the body was offensive.

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