The Meaning of John 11:4 Explained

John 11:4

KJV: When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.

YLT: and Jesus having heard, said, 'This ailment is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.'

Darby: But when Jesus heard it, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified by it.

ASV: But when Jesus heard it, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified thereby.

KJV Reverse Interlinear

When  Jesus  heard  [that], he said,  This  sickness  is  not  unto  death,  but  for  the glory  of God,  that  the Son  of God  might be glorified  thereby. 

What does John 11:4 Mean?

Verse Meaning

Jesus meant that Lazarus would not die in the final sense, though this sickness did prove fatal. His immediate death would result in resurrection and the revelation of Jesus as God"s Son (cf. John 9:3). In this Gospel, God"s "glory" is usually a reference to His self-revelation rather than the praise that comes to Him (cf. John 1:14-18; John 5:23; John 12:28; John 17:4). [1] Ironically this miracle displayed Jesus" identity as God"s Song of Solomon , but it also led to His death that was the ultimate manifestation of His identity and glory.

Context Summary

John 11:1-16 - Jesus Faces Death For His Friend
Sickness enters homes even where God is honored and loved. It is permitted because it affords an opportunity and platform for His delivering help. We should see to it that the Son of God is glorified in our physical weakness, either because of our patience and fortitude, which are ministered by His Spirit, or by the deliverances which He grants. See 2 Corinthians 12:1-9.
There is a special emphasis on therefore in John 11:6. Christ lingered because He loved. He allowed the worse to go to the worst, that the sisters (and the world through them) might receive a testimony to His saving power, which could be obtained at no less cost than their brother's death, John 11:9. As long as the heart is bathed in the light of God's presence and is conscious of living on His plan, it cannot be mistaken in its decisions and it will not stumble. Our Lord knew that He must go to Bethany, and that He would be safe, because the hour of night had not arrived.
Since Jesus came to us, death has become a mere shadow of its former self and is to be dreaded no more than sleep. Had the Lord been beside His dying friend, He could not have forborne the entreaty of the sisters, but now there was room for a faith-compelling miracle on His part. [source]

Chapter Summary: John 11

1  Jesus raises Lazarus, four days buried
45  Many Jews believe
47  The high priests and Pharisees gather a council against Jesus
49  Caiaphas prophesies
54  Jesus hides himself
55  At the Passover they enquire after him, and lay wait for him

Greek Commentary for John 11:4

Heard it [ακουσας]
The messenger delivered the message of the sisters. The reply of Jesus is for him and for the apostles. Is not unto death Death in the final issue, to remain dead. Lazarus did die, but he did not remain dead. See αμαρτια προς τανατον — hamartia pros thanaton in 1 John 5:16, “sin unto death” (final death). But for the glory of God In behalf of God‘s glory, as the sequel shows. Cf. John 9:3 about the man born blind. The death of Lazarus will illustrate God‘s glory. In some humble sense those who suffer the loss of loved ones are entitled to some comfort from this point made by Jesus about Lazarus. In a supreme way it is true of the death of Christ which he himself calls glorification of himself and God (John 13:31). In John 7:39 John had already used δοχαζω — doxazō of the death of Christ. That the Son of God may be glorified thereby Purpose clause with ινα — hina and the first aorist passive subjunctive of δοχαζω — doxazō Here Jesus calls himself “the Son of God.” In John 8:54 Jesus had said: “It is my Father that glorifieth me.” The raising of Lazarus from the tomb will bring glory to the Son of God. See John 17:1 for this idea in Christ‘s prayer. The raising of Lazarus will also bring to an issue his own death and all this involves the glorification of the Father (John 7:39; John 12:16; John 13:31; John 14:13). The death of Lazarus brings Jesus face to face with his own death. [source]
Unto death []
Not to have death as its final issue. [source]
For the glory [ὑπὲρ]
Here, as elsewhere in John, in behalf of. Canon Westcott remarks: “The sickness is regarded in a triple relation; unto, in respect of the actual result; in behalf of, in respect of the suffering born; in order that, in respect of the divine purpose.” [source]

Reverse Greek Commentary Search for John 11:4

Luke 19:20 Laid up [αποκειμενην]
Present passive participle agreeing with ην — hēn (which), used often as perfect passive of τιτημι — tithēmi as here, laid away or off It is not the periphrastic construction, but two separate verbs, each with its own force.In a napkin (εν σουδαριωι — en soudariōi). A Latin word sudarium from sudor (sweat) transliterated into Greek, a sweatcloth handkerchief or napkin. Found in papyrus marriage contracts as part of the dowry (second and third centuries a.d., Deissmann, Bible Studies, p. 223). Used also for swathing the head of the dead (John 11:44; John 20:7). [source]
Luke 19:20 In a napkin [εν σουδαριωι]
A Latin word sudarium from sudor (sweat) transliterated into Greek, a sweatcloth handkerchief or napkin. Found in papyrus marriage contracts as part of the dowry (second and third centuries a.d., Deissmann, Bible Studies, p. 223). Used also for swathing the head of the dead (John 11:44; John 20:7). [source]
Luke 19:47 Daily [το κατ ημεραν]
Note the accusative neuter article, “as to the according to the day,” very awkward English surely, but perfectly good Greek. The same idiom occurs in Luke 11:3.Sought (εζητουν — ezētoun). Imperfect active, conative imperfect, were seeking, trying to seek.The principal men of the people The first men of the people. The position after the verb and apart from the chief priests and the scribes calls special attention to them. Some of these “first men” were chief priests or scribes, but not all of them. The lights and leaders of Jerusalem were bent on the destruction (απολεσαι — apolesai) of Jesus. The raising of Lazarus from the dead brought them together for this action (John 11:47-53; John 12:9-11). [source]
Luke 19:47 The principal men of the people [οι πρωτοι του λαου]
The first men of the people. The position after the verb and apart from the chief priests and the scribes calls special attention to them. Some of these “first men” were chief priests or scribes, but not all of them. The lights and leaders of Jerusalem were bent on the destruction (απολεσαι — apolesai) of Jesus. The raising of Lazarus from the dead brought them together for this action (John 11:47-53; John 12:9-11). [source]
John 7:24 Appearance [ὄψιν]
Primarily, seeing or sight. In John 11:44; Revelation 1:16, face, and hence external appearance. The word occurs only in the three passages cited. [source]
John 18:13 That same year []
See on John 11:49. [source]
John 14:2 A place [τόπον]
See on John 11:48. The heavenly dwelling is thus described by three words: house, abode, place. [source]
John 1:14 Glory [δόξαν]
Not the absolute glory of the Eternal Word, which could belong only to His pre-existent state, and to the conditions subsequent to his exaltation; but His glory revealed under human limitations both in Himself and in those who beheld Him. The reference is again to the Old Testament manifestations of the divine glory, in the wilderness (Exodus 16:10; Exodus 24:16, etc.); in the temple (1 Kings 8:11); to the prophets (Isaiah 6:3; Ezekiel 1:28). The divine glory flashed out in Christ from time to time, in His transfiguration (Luke 9:31; compare 2 Peter 1:16, 2 Peter 1:17) and His miracles (John 2:11; John 11:4, John 11:40), but appeared also in His perfect life and character, in His fulfillment of the absolute idea of manhood. [source]
John 10:19 There arose a division again [σχισμα παλιν εγενετο]
As in John 7:43 in the crowd (also in John 7:12, John 7:31), so now among the hostile Jews (Pharisees) some of whom had previously professed belief in him (John 8:31). The direct reference of παλιν — palin (again) may be to John 9:16 when the Pharisees were divided over the problem of the blind man. Division of opinion about Jesus is a common thing in John‘s Gospel (John 6:52, John 6:60, John 6:66; John 7:12, John 7:25.; John 8:22; John 9:16.; John 10:19, John 10:24, John 10:41; John 11:41.; John 12:19, John 12:29, John 12:42; John 16:18.). [source]
John 7:39 Was glorified [ἐδοξάσθη]
We have here one of John's characteristic terms, even as the idea is central to his Gospel - to show forth Jesus as the manifested glory of God (John 1:14). The beginning of our Lord's miracles was a manifestation of His glory (John 2:11). His glory was the expression of the Father's will (John 8:54). By His work He glorified the Father upon earth (John 12:28; John 17:4), and in this was Himself glorified (John 17:10). The sickness and resurrection of Lazarus were for the glory of God (John 11:4). The consummation of His work was marked by the words, “Now was the Son of man glorified, and God was glorified in Him” (John 13:31). His glory He had with the Father before the world was (John 17:5). It is consummated at His ascension (John 7:39; John 12:16). The passion is the way to glory (John 12:23, John 12:24; John 13:31). The fruitfulness of believers in Him is for the glory of God (John 15:8), and the office of the Spirit is to glorify Christ (John 16:14).sa40 [source]
John 11:49 That year []
This has been cited to show that John is guilty of a historical error, since, according to the Mosaic law, the high priesthood was held for life. The occurrence of the phrase three times (John 11:49, John 11:51) is significant, and, so far from indicating an error, goes to connect the office of Caiaphas with his part in accomplishing the death of Christ. It devolved on the High Priest to offer every year the great sacrifice of atonement for sin; and in that year, that memorable year, it fell to Caiaphas to be the instrument of the sacrifice of Him that taketh away the sin of the world. Dante places Caiaphas and his father-in-law, Annas, far down in Hell in the Bolgia of the Hypocrites:“to mine eyes there rushedOne crucified with three stakes on the ground. When me he saw, he writhed himself all over,-DIVIDER-
Blowing into his beard with suspirations;-DIVIDER-
And the friar Catalan who noticed this,-DIVIDER-
Said to me: 'This transfixed one whom thou seest,-DIVIDER-
Counselled the Pharisees that it was meet-DIVIDER-
To put one man to torture for the people. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
Crosswrise and naked is he on the path,-DIVIDER-
As thou perceivest; and he needs must feel,-DIVIDER-
Whoever passes, first how much he weighs;-DIVIDER-
And in like mode his father-in-law is punished-DIVIDER-
Within this moat, and the others of the council,-DIVIDER-
Which for the Jews was a malignant seed.”“Inferno,” xxiii., 110-129. Dean Plumptre suggests that the punishment described by the poet seems to reproduce the thought of Isaiah 51:23. [source]

John 1:34 I have seen [εωρακα]
Present perfect active of οραω — horaō John repeats the statement of John 1:32 Have borne witness Perfect active indicative of μαρτυρεω — martureō for which verb see John 1:32. This is the Son of God The Baptist saw the Spirit come on Jesus at his baptism and undoubtedly heard the Father‘s voice hail him as “My Beloved Son” (Mark 1:11; Matthew 3:17; Luke 3:22). Nathanael uses it as a Messianic title (John 1:49) as does Martha (John 11:27). The Synoptics use it also of Christ (Mark 3:11; Matthew 14:33; Luke 22:70). Caiaphas employs it to Christ as a Messianic title (Matthew 26:63) and Jesus confessed under oath that he was (verse Matthew 26:64), thus applying the term to himself as he does in John‘s Gospel (John 5:25; John 10:36; John 11:4) and by implication (the Father, the Son) in Matthew 11:27 (Luke 10:22). Hence in the Synoptics also Jesus calls himself the Son of God. The phrase means more than just Messiah and expresses the peculiar relation of the Son to the Father (John 3:18; John 5:25; John 17:5; John 19:7; John 20:31) like that of the Logos with God in John 1:1. [source]
John 10:24 Came round about him [εκυκλωσαν αυτον]
Aorist active indicative of κυκλοω — kukloō old verb from κυκλος — kuklos (cycle, circle). See Acts 14:20 for the circle of disciples around Paul when stoned. Evidently the hostile Jews cherished the memory of the stinging rebuke given them by Jesus when here last, particularly the allegory of the Good Shepherd (10:1-19), in which he drew so sharply their own picture. How long dost thou hold us in suspense? Literally, “Until when dost thou lift up our soul?” But what do they mean by this metaphor? Αιρω — Airō is common enough to lift up the eyes (John 11:41), the voice (Luke 17:13), and in Psalm 25:1; Psalm 86:4 (Josephus, Ant. III. ii. 3) we have “to lift up the soul.” We are left to the context to judge the precise meaning. Clearly the Jews mean to imply doubt and suspense. The next remark makes it clear. If thou art the Christ Condition of first class assumed to be true for the sake of argument. Tell us plainly Conclusion with ειπον — eipon rather than the usual ειπε — eipe as if first aorist active imperative like λυσον — luson The point is in “plainly” Jesus declined to use the word Χριστος — Christos (Messiah) then as now because of the political bearing of the word in their minds. The populace in Galilee had once tried to make him king in opposition to Pilate (John 6:14.). When Jesus does confess on oath before Caiaphas that he is the Christ the Son of God (Mark 14:61.; Matthew 26:63.), the Sanhedrin instantly vote him guilty of blasphemy and then bring him to Pilate with the charge of claiming to be king as a rival to Caesar. Jesus knew their minds too well to be caught now. [source]
John 11:22 And even now I know [και νυν οιδα]
Rather just, “Even now I know.” Αλλα — Alla (but) of the Textus Receptus is not genuine. Whatsoever thou shalt ask of God Indefinite relative Repetition of ο τεος — ho theos for emphasis. Martha still has courageous faith in the power of God through Jesus, and Jesus in John 11:41 says practically what she has said here. [source]
John 12:11 Because that [οτι]
Causal use of οτι — hoti By reason of him “Because of him,” regular idiom, accusative case with δια — dia Went away Cf. John 6:67 for this verb. Inchoative imperfect active of υπαγω — hupagō “began to withdraw” as happened at the time of the raising of Lazarus (John 11:45.) and the secession was still going on. And believed on Jesus Imperfect active of πιστευω — pisteuō (note aorist in John 11:45). There was danger of a mass movement of the people to Jesus. [source]
John 12:17 Bare witness [εμαρτυρει]
Imperfect active of μαρτυρεω — martureō This crowning triumph of Jesus gave an added sense of importance to the crowds that were actually with Jesus when he called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead. For this description of this portion of the crowd see John 11:45.; John 12:1, John 12:9-11. [source]
John 18:8 Let these go their way [απετε τουτους υπαγειν]
Second aorist active imperative of απιημι — aphiēmi The verb υπαγειν — hupagein means to withdraw (John 11:44). Jesus shows solicitude for the eleven as he had warned them and prayed for them (Luke 22:31.). He is trying to help them. [source]
John 20:7 The napkin [το σουδαριον]
Already in John 11:44 which see. This napkin for the head was in a separate place. Rolled up Perfect passive participle, predicate accusative like κειμενον — keimenon from εντυλισσω — entulissō late verb, to wrap in, to roll up, already in Matthew 27:59; Luke 23:53. It was arranged in an orderly fashion. There was no haste. By itself Old adverb, “apart,” “separately.” [source]
John 1:14 And the Word became flesh [και ο λογος σαρχ εγενετο]
See John 1:3 for this verb and note its use for the historic event of the Incarnation rather than ην — ēn of John 1:1. Note also the absence of the article with the predicate substantive σαρχ — sarx so that it cannot mean “the flesh became the Word.” The Pre-existence of the Logos has already been plainly stated and argued. John does not here say that the Logos entered into a man or dwelt in a man or filled a man. One is at liberty to see an allusion to the birth narratives in Matthew 1:16-25; Luke 1:28-38, if he wishes, since John clearly had the Synoptics before him and chiefly supplemented them in his narrative. In fact, one is also at liberty to ask what intelligent meaning can one give to John‘s language here apart from the Virgin Birth? What ordinary mother or father ever speaks of a child “becoming flesh”? For the Incarnation see also 2 Corinthians 8:9; Galatians 4:4; Romans 1:3; Romans 8:3; Philemon 2:7.; 1 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 2:14. “To explain the exact significance of εγενετο — egeneto in this sentence is beyond the powers of any interpreter” (Bernard). Unless, indeed, as seems plain, John is referring to the Virgin Birth as recorded in Matthew and Luke. “The Logos of philosophy is, John declares, the Jesus of history” (Bernard). Thus John asserts the deity and the real humanity of Christ. He answers the Docetic Gnostics who denied his humanity. Dwelt among us First aorist ingressive aorist active indicative of σκηνοω — skēnoō old verb, to pitch one‘s tent or tabernacle First aorist middle indicative of τεαομαι — theaomai (from τεα — thea spectacle). The personal experience of John and of others who did recognize Jesus as the Shekinah glory John employs τεαομαι — theaomai again in John 1:32 (the Baptist beholding the Spirit coming down as a dove) and John 1:38 of the Baptist gazing in rapture at Jesus. So also John 4:35; John 11:45; 1 John 1:1.; 1 John 4:12, 1 John 4:14. By this word John insists that in the human Jesus he beheld the Shekinah glory of God who was and is the Logos who existed before with God. By this plural John speaks for himself and all those who saw in Jesus what he did. As of the only begotten from the Father Strictly, “as of an only born from a father,” since there is no article with μονογενους — monogenous or with πατρος — patros In John 3:16; 1 John 4:9 we have τον μονογενη — ton monogenē referring to Christ. This is the first use in the Gospel of πατηρ — patēr of God in relation to the Logos. Μονογενης — Monogenēs (only born rather than only begotten) here refers to the eternal relationship of the Logos (as in John 1:18) rather than to the Incarnation. It distinguishes thus between the Logos and the believers as children John clearly means to say that “the manifested glory of the Word was as it were the glory of the Eternal Father shared with His only Son” (Bernard). Cf. John 8:54; John 14:9; John 17:5. Full Probably indeclinable accusative adjective agreeing with δοχαν — doxan (or genitive with μονογενους — monogenous) of which we have papyri examples (Robertson, Grammar, p. 275). As nominative πληρης — plērēs can agree with the subject of εσκηνωσεν — eskēnōsen Of grace and truth Curiously this great word χαρις — charis (grace), so common with Paul, does not occur in John‘s Gospel save in John 1:14, John 1:16, John 1:17, though αλητεια — alētheia (truth) is one of the keywords in the Fourth Gospel and in 1John, occurring 25 times in the Gospel and 20 in the Johannine Epistles, 7 times in the Synoptics and not at all in Revelation (Bernard). In John 1:17 these two words picture the Gospel in Christ in contrast with the law of Moses. See Epistles of Paul for origin and use of both words. [source]
John 11:27 Yea, Lord [Ναι κυριε]
Martha probably did not understand all that Jesus said and meant, but she did believe in the future resurrection, in eternal life for believers in Christ, in the power of Christ to raise even the dead here and now. She had heroic faith and makes now her own confession of faith in words that outrank those of Peter in Matthew 16:16 because she makes hers with her brother dead now four days and with the hope that Jesus will raise him up now. I have believed (πιστευω — pepisteuka). Perfect active indicative of οτι συ ει ο Χριστος ο υιος του τεου — pisteuō It is my settled and firm faith. Peter uses this same tense in John 6:69. That thou art the Son of God (ο εις τον κοσμον ερχομενος — hoti su ei ho Christos ho huios tou theou). The Messiah or the Christ (John 1:41) was to be also “the Son of God” as the Baptist said he had found Jesus to be (John 1:34), as Peter confessed on Hermon for the apostles (Matthew 16:16), as Jesus claimed to be (John 11:41) and confessed on oath before Caiaphas that he was (Matthew 26:63.), and as John stated that it was his purpose to prove in his Gospel (John 20:31). But no one said it under more trying circumstances than Martha. Even he that cometh into the world (ho eis ton kosmon erchomenos). No “even” in the Greek. This was a popular way of putting the people‘s expectation (John 6:14; Matthew 11:3). Jesus himself spoke of his coming into the world (John 9:39; John 16:28; John 8:37). [source]
John 5:25 And now is [και νυν εστιν]
See John 4:23 for this phrase. Not the future resurrection in John 5:28, but the spiritual resurrection here and now. The dead The spiritually dead, dead in trespasses and sins (Ephesians 2:1, Ephesians 2:5; Ephesians 5:14). Shall hear the voice of the Son of God Note three genitives Note three articles (correlation of the article) and that Jesus here calls himself “the Son of God” as in John 10:36; John 11:4. Shall live Future active indicative, shall come to life spiritually. [source]
John 7:24 According to appearance [κατ οπσιν]
And so, superficially. See John 11:44. Also not “righteous” (δικαιαν — dikaian) judgment. [source]
John 11:40 Said I not unto thee? [Ουκ ειπον σοι]
Jesus pointedly reminds Martha of his promise to raise Lazarus (John 11:25.). That if thou believedst Indirect discourse with εαν — ean and the first aorist active subjunctive (condition of third class) retained after the secondary tense ειπον — eipon He had not said this very phrase, εαν πιστευσηις — ean pisteusēis to Martha, but he did say to her: Πιστευεις τουτο — Pisteueis touto (Believest thou this?). He meant to test Martha as to her faith already hinted at (John 11:22) on this very point. Jesus had also spoken of increase of faith on the part of the disciples (John 11:15). Thou shouldest see the glory of God Future middle indicative of the old defective verb οραω — horaō retained in the conclusion of this condition in indirect discourse. Jesus means the glory of God as shown in the resurrection of Lazarus as he had already said to the disciples (John 11:4) and as he meant Martha to understand (John 11:25) and may in fact have said to her (the report of the conversation is clearly abridged). Hence Bernard‘s difficulty in seeing how Martha could understand the words of Jesus about the resurrection of Lazarus here and now seems fanciful and far-fetched. [source]
John 12:27 My soul [η πσυχη μου]
The soul Perfect passive indicative of ταρασσω — tarassō used also in John 11:33; John 13:21 of Jesus. While John proves the deity of Jesus in his Gospel, he assumes throughout his real humanity as here (cf. John 4:6). The language is an echo of that in Psalm 6:4; Psalm 42:7. John does not give the agony in Gethsemane which the Synoptics have (Mark 14:35.; Matthew 26:39; Luke 22:42), but it is quite beside the mark to suggest, as Bernard does, that the account here is John‘s version of the Gethsemane experience. Why do some critics feel called upon to level down to a dead plane every variety of experience in Christ‘s life? And what shall I say? Deliberative subjunctive which expresses vividly “a genuine, if momentary indecision” (Bernard). The request of the Greeks called up graphically to Jesus the nearness of the Cross. Father, save me from this hour Jesus began his prayers with “Father” (John 11:41). Dods thinks that this should be a question also. Westcott draws a distinction between απο — ek (out of) and εκ — apo (from) to show that Jesus does not pray to draw back from the hour, but only to come safely out of it all and so interprets εκ — ek in Hebrews 5:7, but that distinction will not stand, for in John 1:44 απο — ek and απο — apo are used in the same sense and in the Synoptics (Mark 14:35.; Matthew 26:39; Luke 22:42) we have αλλα δια τουτο ηλτον εις την ωραν ταυτην — apo If it holds here, we lose the point there. Here as in Gethsemane the soul of Jesus instinctively and naturally shrinks from the Cross, but he instantly surrenders to the will of God in both experiences. But for this cause came I unto this hour (alla dia touto ēlthon eis tēn hōran tautēn). It was only a moment of human weakness as in Gethsemane that quickly passed. Thus understood the language has its natural meaning. [source]
John 12:27 Is troubled [τεταρακται]
Perfect passive indicative of ταρασσω — tarassō used also in John 11:33; John 13:21 of Jesus. While John proves the deity of Jesus in his Gospel, he assumes throughout his real humanity as here (cf. John 4:6). The language is an echo of that in Psalm 6:4; Psalm 42:7. John does not give the agony in Gethsemane which the Synoptics have (Mark 14:35.; Matthew 26:39; Luke 22:42), but it is quite beside the mark to suggest, as Bernard does, that the account here is John‘s version of the Gethsemane experience. Why do some critics feel called upon to level down to a dead plane every variety of experience in Christ‘s life? And what shall I say? Deliberative subjunctive which expresses vividly “a genuine, if momentary indecision” (Bernard). The request of the Greeks called up graphically to Jesus the nearness of the Cross. Father, save me from this hour Jesus began his prayers with “Father” (John 11:41). Dods thinks that this should be a question also. Westcott draws a distinction between απο — ek (out of) and εκ — apo (from) to show that Jesus does not pray to draw back from the hour, but only to come safely out of it all and so interprets εκ — ek in Hebrews 5:7, but that distinction will not stand, for in John 1:44 απο — ek and απο — apo are used in the same sense and in the Synoptics (Mark 14:35.; Matthew 26:39; Luke 22:42) we have αλλα δια τουτο ηλτον εις την ωραν ταυτην — apo If it holds here, we lose the point there. Here as in Gethsemane the soul of Jesus instinctively and naturally shrinks from the Cross, but he instantly surrenders to the will of God in both experiences. But for this cause came I unto this hour (alla dia touto ēlthon eis tēn hōran tautēn). It was only a moment of human weakness as in Gethsemane that quickly passed. Thus understood the language has its natural meaning. [source]
John 12:27 And what shall I say? [και τι ειπω]
Deliberative subjunctive which expresses vividly “a genuine, if momentary indecision” (Bernard). The request of the Greeks called up graphically to Jesus the nearness of the Cross. Father, save me from this hour Jesus began his prayers with “Father” (John 11:41). Dods thinks that this should be a question also. Westcott draws a distinction between απο — ek (out of) and εκ — apo (from) to show that Jesus does not pray to draw back from the hour, but only to come safely out of it all and so interprets εκ — ek in Hebrews 5:7, but that distinction will not stand, for in John 1:44 απο — ek and απο — apo are used in the same sense and in the Synoptics (Mark 14:35.; Matthew 26:39; Luke 22:42) we have αλλα δια τουτο ηλτον εις την ωραν ταυτην — apo If it holds here, we lose the point there. Here as in Gethsemane the soul of Jesus instinctively and naturally shrinks from the Cross, but he instantly surrenders to the will of God in both experiences. But for this cause came I unto this hour (alla dia touto ēlthon eis tēn hōran tautēn). It was only a moment of human weakness as in Gethsemane that quickly passed. Thus understood the language has its natural meaning. [source]
John 12:27 Father, save me from this hour [πατερ σωσον με εκ της ωρας ταυτης]
Jesus began his prayers with “Father” (John 11:41). Dods thinks that this should be a question also. Westcott draws a distinction between απο — ek (out of) and εκ — apo (from) to show that Jesus does not pray to draw back from the hour, but only to come safely out of it all and so interprets εκ — ek in Hebrews 5:7, but that distinction will not stand, for in John 1:44 απο — ek and απο — apo are used in the same sense and in the Synoptics (Mark 14:35.; Matthew 26:39; Luke 22:42) we have αλλα δια τουτο ηλτον εις την ωραν ταυτην — apo If it holds here, we lose the point there. Here as in Gethsemane the soul of Jesus instinctively and naturally shrinks from the Cross, but he instantly surrenders to the will of God in both experiences. But for this cause came I unto this hour (alla dia touto ēlthon eis tēn hōran tautēn). It was only a moment of human weakness as in Gethsemane that quickly passed. Thus understood the language has its natural meaning. [source]
John 12:28 Father, glorify thy name [πατερ δοχασον σου το ονομα]
First aorist (note of urgency) active imperative of πνευμα — doxazō and in the sense of his death already in John 12:16, John 12:23 and again in John 13:31; John 17:5. This is the prayer of the πσυχη — pneuma (or σαρχ — psuchē) as opposed to that of the ονομα — sarx (flesh) in John 12:27. The “name” (πωνη εκ του ουρανου — onoma) of God expresses the character of God (John 1:12; John 5:43; John 17:11). Cf. Matthew 6:9. A voice out of heaven (και εδοχασα και παλιν δοχασω — phōnē ek tou ouranou). This was the Father‘s answer to the prayer of Jesus for help. See note on the Father‘s voice at the baptism of Jesus (Mark 1:11) and on the Father‘s voice at the transfiguration (Mark 9:7). The rabbis called the audible voice of God εδοχασα — bath -δοχασω — qol (the daughter of a voice). I have both glorified it and will glorify it again (kai edoxasa kai palin doxasō). This definite assurance from the Father will nerve the soul of Jesus for the coming ordeal. Cf. John 11:40 for edoxasa and John 13:31; John 17:5 for doxasō f0). [source]
John 17:1 Lifting up [επαρας]
First aorist active participle of επαιρω — epairō old and common verb with οπταλμους — ophthalmous (eyes) as in John 4:35; John 6:5; John 11:41. Father Vocative form as in John 16:5, John 16:11; John 11:41, Christ‘s usual way of beginning his prayers. It is inconceivable that this real Lord‘s Prayer is the free composition of a disciple put into the mouth of Jesus. It is rather “the tenacious memory of an old man recalling the greatest days of his life” (Bernard), aided by the Holy Spirit promised for this very purpose (John 14:26; John 16:13.). Jesus had the habit of prayer (Mark 1:35; Mark 6:46; Matthew 11:25.; Luke 3:21; Luke 5:16; Luke 6:12; Luke 9:18, Luke 9:28; Luke 11:22, Luke 11:42; Luke 23:34, Luke 23:46; John 11:41; John 12:27). He prayed here for himself (John 17:1-5), for the disciples (John 17:6-19), for all believers (John 17:20-26). The prayer is similar in spirit to the Model Prayer for us in Matthew 6:9-13. The hour for his glorification has come as he had already told the disciples (John 13:31.; John 12:23). Glorify thy Son First aorist active imperative of δοχαζω — doxazō the only personal petition in this prayer. Jesus had already used this word δοχαζω — doxazō for his death (John 13:31.). Here it carries us into the very depths of Christ‘s own consciousness. It is not merely for strength to meet the Cross, but for the power to glorify the Father by his death and resurrection and ascension, “that the Son may glorify thee” Purpose clause with ινα — hina and the first aorist active subjunctive. [source]
John 4:6 Jacob‘s well [πηγη του Ιακωβ]
“A spring of Jacob” (here and John 4:14), but πρεαρ — phrear (well, pit, cistern) in John 4:11 and John 4:12. It is really a cistern 100 feet deep dug by a stranger apparently in a land of abundant springs (Genesis 26:19). Wearied Perfect active participle of κοπιαω — kopiaō a state of weariness. The verb means to toil excessively (Luke 5:5). John emphasizes the human emotions of Jesus (John 1:14; John 11:3, John 11:33, John 11:35, John 11:38, John 11:41.; John 12:27; John 13:21; John 19:28). With his journey As a result Imperfect (descriptive) middle of κατεζομαι — kathezomai “was sitting.” Thus Probably “thus wearied,” graphic picture. By the well Literally, “upon the curbstone of the well.” Sixth hour Roman time, about 6 p.m., the usual time for drawing water. [source]
John 6:5 Lifting up his eyes [επαρας τους οπταλμους]
First aorist active participle of επαιρω — epairō See the same phrase in John 4:35 where it is also followed by τεαομαι — theaomai John 11:41; John 17:1; Luke 6:20. Here it is particularly expressive as Jesus looked down from the mountain on the approaching multitude. Cometh unto him Present middle indicative, “is coming to him.” The same οχλος πολυς — ochlos polus (here πολυς οχλος — polus ochlos) of John 6:2 that had followed Jesus around the head of the lake. Whence are we to buy? Deliberative subjunctive (aorist active). John passes by the earlier teaching and healing of the Synoptics (Mark 6:34.; Matthew 14:14.; Luke 9:11.) till mid-afternoon. In John also Jesus takes up the matter of feeding the multitude with Philip (from the other Bethsaida, John 1:44) whereas in the Synoptics the disciples raise the problem with Jesus. So the disciples raise the problem in the feeding of the four thousand (Mark 8:4; Matthew 15:33). See Numbers 11:13-22 (about Moses) and 2 Kings 4:42. (about Elisha). Bread “Loaves” (plural) as in Matthew 4:3. That these may eat Purpose clause with ινα — hina and the second aorist active subjunctive of εστιω — esthiō (defective verb). [source]
John 7:32 The Pharisees [οι Παρισαιοι]
This group of the Jewish rulers (John 7:11, John 7:15, John 7:25.) was particularly hostile to Christ, though already the Sadducees had become critical (Matthew 16:6) and they join here First aorist active indicative of ακουω — akouō with the genitive case and the descriptive participle of the vivid onomatopoetic verb γογγυζω — gogguzō (John 7:12) now grown louder like the hum of bees. It was the defense of Jesus by a portion of the crowd (John 7:31) that irritated the Pharisees. Here the Pharisees take the initiative and enlist the Sadducees in the Sanhedrin (for this combination see John 7:45; John 11:47, John 11:57; Matthew 21:45; Matthew 27:62, the organized court) to send “officers” For υπηρετας — hupēretas (temple police here) see John 7:45; John 18:3, John 18:12, John 18:22; John 19:6; Acts 5:22, Acts 5:26. For the word see Matthew 5:25; Luke 1:2, “an under rower” (υπο ερετης — hupo class="translit"> eretēs), any assistant. [source]
Acts 19:12 Handkerchiefs [σουδαρια]
Latin word for συδορ — sudor (sweat). Used in Luke 19:20; John 11:44; John 20:7. In two papyri marriage-contracts this word occurs among the toilet articles in the dowry (Deissmann, Bible Studies, p. 223). [source]
Romans 4:5 Believeth on Him [πιστεύοντι ἐπὶ τὸν]
The verb πιστεύω tobelieve is used in the New Testament as follows: 1. Transitively, with the accusative and dative: to entrust something to one, Luke 16:11; John 2:24. In the passive, to be entrusted with something, Romans 3:2; 1 Corinthians 9:17; Galatians 2:7. With the simple accusative, to believe a thing, John 11:26; 1 John 4:16. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
2. With the infinitive, Acts 15:11. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
3. With ὅτι that Matthew 9:28; Mark 11:24; James 2:19. Especially frequent in John: John 4:21; John 11:27, John 11:42; John 13:19; John 14:10, John 14:11; John 16:27, John 16:30, etc. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
4. With the simple dative, meaning to believe a person or thing, that they are true or speak the truth, John 2:22; John 4:21; John 5:46. See on John 1:12; see on John 2:22, John 2:23; see on John 8:31; see on John 10:37. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
5. With the preposition ἐν inNot frequent, and questioned in some of the passages cited for illustration. In John 3:15, ἐν αὐτῷ inHim, is probably to be construed with have eternal life. The formula occurs nowhere else in John. In Mark 1:15we find πιστεύετε ἐν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ believein the gospel. The kindred noun πίστις faithoccurs in this combination. Thus Galatians 3:26, though some join in Christ Jesus with sons. See also Ephesians 1:15; Colossians 1:4; 1 Timothy 3:13; 2 Timothy 3:15; Romans 3:25. This preposition indicates the sphere in which faith moves, rather than the object to which it is directed, though instances occur in the Septuagint where it plainly indicates the direction of faith, Psalm 78:22; Jeremiah 12:6. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
6. With the preposition ἐπί uponon to, unto. a. With the accusative, Romans 4:5; Acts 9:42; Acts 11:17; Acts 16:31; Acts 22:19. The preposition carries the idea of mental direction with a view to resting upon, which latter idea is conveyed by the same preposition. b. With the dative, 1 Timothy 1:16; Luke 24:25; compare Romans 9:33; Romans 10:11; 1 Peter 2:6. The dative expresses absolute superposition. Christ as the object of faith, is the basis on which faith rests. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
7. With the preposition εἰς into Matthew 18:6; John 2:11; Acts 19:4; Romans 10:14; Galatians 2:16; Philemon 1:29, etc. The preposition conveys the idea of the absolute transference of trust from one's self to another. Literally the phrase means to believe into. See on John 1:12; see on John 2:23; see on John 9:35; see on John 12:44.Is counted for righteousness ( λογίζεται εἰς δικαιοσύνην )Rev., is reckoned. See on Romans 4:3. The preposition εἰς has the force of as, not the telic meaning with a view to, or in order that he may be (righteous); nor strictly, in the place of righteousness. Faith is not a substitute for righteousness, since righteousness is involved in faith. When a man is reckoned righteous through faith, it is not a legal fiction. He is not indeed a perfect man, but God does not reckon something which has no real existence. Faith is the germ of righteousness, of life in God. God recognizes no true life apart from holiness, and “he that believeth on the Son hath life.” He is not merely regarded in the law's eye as living. God accepts the germ, not in place of the fruit, but as containing the fruit. “Abraham believed God … . No soul comes into such a relation of trust without having God's investment upon it; and whatever there may be in God's righteousness - love, truth, sacrifice - will be rightfully imputed or counted to be in it, because, being united to Him, it will have them coming over derivatively from Him” (Bushnell). The idea of logical sequence is inherent in λογίζεται isreckoned - the sequence of character upon faith. Where there is faith there is, logically, righteousness, and the righteousness is from faith unto faith (Romans 1:17). Nevertheless, in the highest development of the righteousness of faith, it will remain true that the man is justified, not by the works of righteousness, which are the fruit of faith, but by the faith which, in making him a partaker of the life and righteousness of God, generates and inspires the works. Observe that the believer's own faith is reckoned as righteousness. “In no passage in Paul's writings or in other parts of the New Testament, where the phrase to reckon for or the verb to reckon alone is used, is there a declaration that anything belonging to one person is imputed, accounted, or reckoned to another, or a formal statement that Christ's righteousness is imputed to believers” (President Dwight, “Notes on Meyer”). -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
[source]

1 John 5:14 He heareth us [ἀκούει ἡμῶν]
Compare John 9:31; John 11:41, John 11:42. Hear is used in this sense by John only. [source]
1 John 2:11 Hath blinded [ἐτύφλωσεν]
For the image see Isaiah 6:10. See on closed, Matthew 13:15. Compare John 1:5, and see note on κατέλαβεν , overtook; John 11:35, John 11:40. The aorist tense, blinded, indicates a past, definite, decisive act. When the darkness overtook, it blinded. The blindness is no new state into which he has come. [source]
Revelation 1:16 Countenance [ὄψις]
Used by John only, and only three times: here, John 7:24; John 11:44. Not general appearance. [source]
Revelation 1:16 Proceeded [εκπορευομενη]
Present middle participle of εκπορευομαι — ekporeuomai old compound (Matthew 3:5) used loosely again like εχων — echōn sharp two-edged sword “A sword two-mouthed sharp.” ομπαια — Romphaia (as distinct from μαχαιρα — machaira) is a long sword, properly a Thracian javelin, in N.T. only Luke 2:35; Revelation 1:16; Revelation 2:12; Hebrews 4:12. See στομα — stoma used with μαχαιρης — machairēs in Luke 21:24 (by the mouth of the sword).Countenance (οπσις — opsis). Old word (from οπτω — optō), in N.T. only here, John 7:24; John 11:44.As the sun shineth Brachylogy, “as the sun when it shines.” For παινει — phainei see John 1:5. [source]
Revelation 1:16 Countenance [οπσις]
Old word (from οπτω — optō), in N.T. only here, John 7:24; John 11:44. [source]
Revelation 11:9 Suffer not [ουκ απιουσιν]
Present active indicative of απιω — aphiō late form for απιημι — aphiēmi as in Mark 1:34 (cf. απεις — apheis in Revelation 2:20). This use of απιημι — aphiēmi with the infinitive is here alone in the Apocalypse, though common elsewhere (John 11:44, John 11:48; John 12:7; John 18:8). [source]
Revelation 2:18 The Son of God [ο υιος του τεου]
Here Jesus is represented as calling himself by this title as in John 11:4 and as he affirms on oath in Matthew 26:63. “The Word of God” occurs in Revelation 19:13.His eyes like a flame of fire (τους οπταλμους αυτου ως πλογα πυρος — tous ophthalmous autou hōs phloga puros). As in Revelation 1:14.His feet like burnished brass As in Revelation 1:15. [source]
Revelation 1:16 In his right hand [εν τηι δεχιαι χειρι]
For safe keeping as in John 10:28.Seven stars (αστερας επτα — asteras hepta). Symbols of the seven churches (Revelation 1:20), seven planets rather than Pleiades or any other constellation like the bear.Proceeded Present middle participle of εκπορευομαι — ekporeuomai old compound (Matthew 3:5) used loosely again like εχων — echōn sharp two-edged sword “A sword two-mouthed sharp.” ομπαια — Romphaia (as distinct from μαχαιρα — machaira) is a long sword, properly a Thracian javelin, in N.T. only Luke 2:35; Revelation 1:16; Revelation 2:12; Hebrews 4:12. See στομα — stoma used with μαχαιρης — machairēs in Luke 21:24 (by the mouth of the sword).Countenance (οπσις — opsis). Old word (from οπτω — optō), in N.T. only here, John 7:24; John 11:44.As the sun shineth Brachylogy, “as the sun when it shines.” For παινει — phainei see John 1:5. [source]
Revelation 11:9 Do look upon [βλεπουσιν]
Present (vivid dramatic) active indicative of βλεπω — blepō days and a half Accusative of extent of time. ημισυ — Hēmisu is neuter singular though ημερας — hēmeras (days) is feminine as in Mark 6:23; Revelation 12:14. The days of the gloating over the dead bodies are as many as the years of the prophesying by the witnesses (Revelation 11:3), but there is no necessary correspondence (day for a year). This delight of the spectators “is represented as at once fiendish and childish” (Swete).Suffer not (ουκ απιουσιν — ouk aphiousin). Present active indicative of απιω — aphiō late form for απιημι — aphiēmi as in Mark 1:34 (cf. απεις — apheis in Revelation 2:20). This use of απιημι — aphiēmi with the infinitive is here alone in the Apocalypse, though common elsewhere (John 11:44, John 11:48; John 12:7; John 18:8).Their dead bodies “Their corpses,” plural here, though singular just before and in Revelation 11:8.To be laid in a tomb (τετηναι εις μνημα — tethēnai eis mnēma). First aorist passive of τιτημι — tithēmi to place. Μνημα — Mnēma (old word from μιμνησκω — mimnēskō to remind) is a memorial, a monument, a sepulchre, a tomb (Mark 5:3). “In a country where burial regularly took place on the day of death the time of exposure and indignity would be regarded long” (Beckwith). See Tobit 1:18ff. [source]

What do the individual words in John 11:4 mean?

Having heard then - Jesus said This - sickness not is unto death but for the glory - of God that may be glorified the Son by it
Ἀκούσας δὲ Ἰησοῦς εἶπεν Αὕτη ἀσθένεια οὐκ ἔστιν πρὸς θάνατον ἀλλ’ ὑπὲρ τῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ ἵνα δοξασθῇ Υἱὸς δι’ αὐτῆς

Ἀκούσας  Having  heard 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Participle Active, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: ἀκουστός 
Sense: to be endowed with the faculty of hearing, not deaf.
  - 
Parse: Article, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
Ἰησοῦς  Jesus 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: Ἰησοῦς  
Sense: Joshua was the famous captain of the Israelites, Moses’ successor.
εἶπεν  said 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Indicative Active, 3rd Person Singular
Root: λέγω  
Sense: to speak, say.
Αὕτη  This 
Parse: Demonstrative Pronoun, Nominative Feminine Singular
Root: οὗτος  
Sense: this.
  - 
Parse: Article, Nominative Feminine Singular
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
ἀσθένεια  sickness 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Feminine Singular
Root: ἀσθένεια  
Sense: want of strength, weakness, infirmity.
πρὸς  unto 
Parse: Preposition
Root: πρός  
Sense: to the advantage of.
θάνατον  death 
Parse: Noun, Accusative Masculine Singular
Root: θάνατος 
Sense: the death of the body.
δόξης  glory 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Feminine Singular
Root: δόξα  
Sense: opinion, judgment, view.
τοῦ  - 
Parse: Article, Genitive Masculine Singular
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
Θεοῦ  of  God 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Masculine Singular
Root: θεός  
Sense: a god or goddess, a general name of deities or divinities.
ἵνα  that 
Parse: Conjunction
Root: ἵνα  
Sense: that, in order that, so that.
δοξασθῇ  may  be  glorified 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Subjunctive Passive, 3rd Person Singular
Root: δοξάζω  
Sense: to think, suppose, be of opinion.
Υἱὸς  Son 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: υἱός  
Sense: a son.