What does John 12:2 mean?

Explanation

John 12:2 describes a scene in which Jesus is dining at a supper made for Him. Martha is serving, and Lazarus, whom Jesus had raised from the dead in the previous chapter (John 11), is sitting at the table with Jesus.

The verse highlights the roles of both Martha, as a server, and Lazarus, as a guest, and conveys a sense of community and intimacy around Jesus.

It sets the stage for the events that are to follow, including the anointing of Jesus by Mary, Lazarus' sister, which takes place in subsequent verses.

The literal meaning is straightforward, describing a dinner scene.

However, the deeper significance may be reflective of Jesus' relationships with his followers and the normalcy of spending time together in fellowship.

Historical Context

The verse is set in Bethany, a town near Jerusalem, shortly before the Jewish festival of Passover.

This event likely took place in the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, who were close friends of Jesus.

During that time, hosting a meal was an act of great hospitality and honor for a guest, especially for someone as esteemed as Jesus.

Sharing a meal was also a time for teaching and fellowship, a common occurrence in Jesus' ministry.

This supper happens after Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, an event that increased His popularity among the people and also resulted in the chief priests plotting to kill both Jesus and Lazarus (John 11:53, 12:10).

Theological Insights

Different denominations and theologians might offer diverse insights into this verse. For example:

• Orthodox/Catholic: The presence of Lazarus, who was raised from the dead, together with Jesus, who would soon defeat death permanently through His resurrection, could be seen as a prefiguration of the resurrection of all believers.
• Protestant/Evangelical: The emphasis might be placed on the fellowship around Jesus and the service given to Him, demonstrating the importance of hospitality and service in Christian life.
• Liberation Theology: Could highlight the contrast in roles where Martha serves while Lazarus reclines with Jesus, possibly contemplating social roles and the call to service.

Practical Applications

The verse can inspire several practical applications in a person's daily life:

• Following the example of Martha's service without seeking attention or reward.
• Valuing time spent in fellowship with others as an essential part of faith practice.
• Recognizing the importance of hospitality and welcoming others into our homes and lives.
• Appreciating life, as Lazarus was given a second chance, and living fully in the presence of God.

Cross-References

• John 11:1-44: The account of the raising of Lazarus from the dead, which offers context to his presence at the table with Jesus.
• Luke 10:40-42: Martha's service and her worry about many things when Jesus was in her home, which contrasts with her service in John 12:2.
• John 12:3-8: The following verses where Mary anoints Jesus's feet, which is part of the same narrative.

Language Study

In the original Greek text:

• "Made" (Greek: ἐποίησαν, epoiēsan) is a verb indicating action, to make or prepare.
• "Supper" (Greek: δεῖπνον, deipnon) refers to the main meal of the day, often held in the evening.
• "Martha served" (Greek: διηκόνει, diēkonei) uses a form of the verb "to serve," which can imply general service or the specific act of serving food.
• "Sat" (Greek: ἀνακείμενος, anakeimenos) is a term for reclining at the table, as was the custom for meals at that time.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In contrast to other ancient practices, Jewish meal customs often included discussions of the Torah and religious teaching.

Unlike Greek symposiums, which were more about intellectual debates and often exclusionary to certain classes or genders, Jewish meals were an opportunity for family and community gatherings.

The inclusion of Lazarus, someone who had been dead and was brought back to life, would be particularly significant against the backdrop of myths about the afterlife from neighboring cultures.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse does not directly intersect with scientific perspectives, as it describes a historical event without making scientific claims.

Modern science does not provide a framework for understanding resurrection from the dead, as described with Lazarus, because it is a miracle , an event outside the scope of natural law and scientific verification.

Commentaries

Commentators have offered various perspectives on this passage:

• Matthew Henry's Commentary: Emphasizes Martha's service and the joy likely present at the meal due to Lazarus's recent resurrection.
• The MacArthur Bible Commentary: Discusses the significance of Lazarus at the table as a testimony to Jesus's miracle and a precursor to Jesus's own resurrection.
• The New Jerome Biblical Commentary: Provides historical context and sees the event as part of John's theme of witnessing and testimony to Jesus's identity and mission.