The Ripple Effect: How Resurrection Shockwaves Produce Unshakeable Faith (John 11:45-12:11)

Sermon Introduction

Do you ever feel like you are outnumbered? Like those who are against Christ are more than those who are for Christ? Or that those who are for Christ are few and far between?

Perhaps it feels that way, looks that way, and is that way on the narrow path of life. But when it is all said and done, and the redeemed of the Lord are gathered around God’s eternal throne, we have great reason to believe that those who are in Christ will outnumber those who are not. And what is that reason?

Well, among other Scriptures, John 11:45–12:11 tells us that many (11:45), many (11:55), many (12:11) were going away and believing in Jesus. Yes, these verses speak only of the circumstances in and around Jerusalem in the days before Christ was arrested and crucified. But as we will see on Sunday, these verses tell us more than just what happened in the weeks leading up to Christ’s death. Indeed, they show how God in Christ is separating the faithful from the foolish and proving the supremacy of Christ over all things.

On Sunday, we will see again who Jesus is and what it means to believe on him. In preparation, take time to read John 11–12. You may also find help by reading Ezekiel 37 and Isaiah 53. As you read, please pray that God would give us confidence in his gospel, his grace, and his goodness. God will bring to faith all those whom the Father gave the Son before the foundation of the world. And gloriously, this multitude will be beyond counting—unless you are the infinite God.

As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday.

For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David

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Discussion & Response Questions: John 11:45 – 12:11
What are the consequences of Lazarus’ resurrection? How is Jesus accomplishing his purposes?
What does Caiaphas unwittingly prophesy? How does John describe what Jesus will accomplish? (vv. 49-52)
Consider Mary’s anointing of Jesus’ feet. What is the value of it? Is anything wasted on Jesus? Why or why not?
Consider Judas’ guise of generosity toward the poor, and his dishonesty. Why reveal this here?
How would you compare and contrast Mary and Judas?
How do you weigh the value of Christ?
Is Jesus’ response to Judas related to his false motives, or something else? What is the basis of his defense for Mary?
What does this text teach us about God’s purposes?
How ought we to respond to these truths?