John 11:40 Meaning and Explanation
“Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jesus reminds Martha of his earlier promise that she would see God's glory if she believed.
The Context of John 11:40
Martha has just voiced her fear about the state of Lazarus' body. Jesus responds by reminding her of what he told her before the tomb—that belief would lead to seeing the glory of God.
What Does John 11:40 Mean?
Jesus' words are both a call and a promise. He reminds Martha of something he said earlier in the chapter (verses 25-26), when Martha confessed that she believed in his resurrection and the resurrection of all people. Now he tells her: if you will believe, you will see. Not someday in heaven, but here, now, the visible working of God. The glory of God is not an abstract principle. It is something that can be seen, experienced, witnessed with the eyes.
The Greek doxa (glory) can mean reputation, honor, or the manifestation of God's power and presence. To see God's glory is to witness his character on display. Jesus is saying: trust, and you will understand.
John 11:40 in the Original Language
doxa, 'glory' -- the visible manifestation of God's character, honor, and power
How to Apply John 11:40 Today
What we are willing to believe shapes what we are able to see. Skepticism and hope both look for evidence. Faith keeps our eyes open to see what God is actually doing, rather than foreclosing on possibility because of what we fear.
Frequently Asked Questions About John 11:40
What does John 11:40 mean?
Jesus reminds Martha of his earlier promise that she would see God's glory if she believed.
What is the context of John 11:40?
Martha has just voiced her fear about the state of Lazarus' body. Jesus responds by reminding her of what he told her before the tomb—that belief would lead to seeing the glory of God.
How can I apply John 11:40 today?
What we are willing to believe shapes what we are able to see. Skepticism and hope both look for evidence. Faith keeps our eyes open to see what God is actually doing, rather than foreclosing on possibility because of what we fear.