Remember While You Wait
Life In His Name
August 10, 2025
Elder Jeff Forrey
John 11:1–27 teaches that Jesus has an agenda in the midst of suffering, that waiting is often part of the Father's plan which strengthens and refines faith, and that Jesus is ultimately the resurrection and the life—calling us to trust his promises rather than ourselves.
Summary
Looking at John 11:1–27, the sermon emphasizes that Mary and Martha's urgent plea and Jesus' delayed response reveal a sovereign Father's plan in which waiting is intentional and formative. Waiting is not passive resignation but a time to reflect on God's greatness, gain strength (as echoed in Isaiah and David), and deepen trust. Jesus' declaration that he is the resurrection and the life reframes suffering and points to the new life and the place he has prepared for his people, prompting a heart-check about whether we truly rely on Christ or still trust ourselves.
Key Points
- Text focus: John 11:1–27 (Mary, Martha, Lazarus)
- Jesus' timing reflects the Father's agenda—delays can be purposeful, not neglect.
- Waiting is part of God's plan; it should be active reflection that builds excitement and strength (Isaiah, David).
- How we approach prayer matters: urgency should rest on relationship with Jesus, not our own effort.
- Jesus is "the resurrection and the life," offering new life and a prepared place for believers.
- The passage calls us to trust Christ's promises rather than rely on ourselves.
- Communion/table reflection: consider the place Jesus has prepared and whether your trust is in him.
The audio description and summary text on this page was generated using AI, please report any errors to office@christouhopechurch.com