John 11:13

13 Jesus meant that Lazarus was dead, but the disciples thought Jesus meant that Lazarus was only sleeping.

John 11:13 Meaning and Commentary

John 11:13

Howbeit Jesus spake of his death
Under the figurative phrase of sleeping:

but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep;
in a literal and natural sense.

John 11:13 In-Context

11 After Jesus said this, he told his disciples, "Our friend Lazarus is sleeping, and I'm going to Bethany to wake him."

12 His disciples said to him, "Lord, if he's sleeping, he'll get well."

13 Jesus meant that Lazarus was dead, but the disciples thought Jesus meant that Lazarus was only sleeping.

14 Then Jesus told them plainly, "Lazarus has died,

15 but I'm glad that I wasn't there so that you can grow in faith. Let's go to Lazarus."