Tears of Compassion

This message will explore the first of two types of tears we see in Jesus at the tomb of Lazarus, the tears of compassion. These tears reveal our God who is moved by compassion over human loss and grief.

John 11:1-44

Sermon Outline

“Jesus wept.” (John 11:35)

Introduction

• The journey of Lent
• “Jesus wept” (John 11:35)
• The variety of Jesus’ tears

Seeing Jesus’ Tears through a Theology of the Incarnation

• Jesus as the revelation of God (Colossians 1:15)
• Jesus as fully human (John 1:14; Hebrews 4:15)
• Jesus shows us what God is like
• Jesus shows us what true humanity is like

Jesus’ Tears at Lazarus’ Tomb: The Compassion of God

• Jesus’ love for Lazarus, Martha, and Mary (John 11:1-5)
• Jesus’ compassion for the tears of the sisters and those grieving (John 11:33)
• Jesus’ compassion for the state of humanity and death (John 11:35)

Stepping into Jesus’ Tears of Compassion

• Encountering the compassion of God for ourselves
• Encountering the compassion of God for others
• Encountering the compassion of God for humanity

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. What are the sorts of things, both positive and negative, that bring tears to your eyes?
2. This week we begin a new sermon series for Lent entitled “The Tears of Jesus.” This week we begin by focusing on Jesus’ tears of compassion in John 11:1-44. Whether on your own or with others, begin your study in prayer and then read John 11:1-44 aloud.
3. When you think about Jesus’ relationship with Lazarus, Martha, and Mary, what do you notice in this passage (give special attention to verses 1-5, 20, 28-33, 35, 38)?
4. What stands out to you about Jesus’ interactions with Martha in verses 17-27?
5. When Martha’s sister, Mary, arrives, Jesus is visibly moved by her weeping, as well as the other mourners who came along with her. This all leads into that famous short verse: “Jesus wept” (John 11:35). Why do you think that Jesus wept here?
6. Paul the Apostle writes: “ Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn” (Romans 12:15). What does Jesus reveal about this through the events at Lazarus’ tomb in John 11?
7. When have you experienced someone entering into your pain and grief in a tangible way?
8. Read through some or all of the following verses and reflect on what they say about the compassion of God: Exodus 34:6; 2 Chronicles 30:9; Psalm 51:1-2; Psalm 103:1-5; Psalm 145:8-9; Isaiah 49:13-15; Lamentations 3:22-23; Hosea 11:8; Matthew 9:36; Luke 15:20; 2 Corinthians 1:3; James 5:11
9. How might the compassion of God revealed in Jesus lead us to enter others’ challenging situations this coming week?
10. What is one thing you sense God calling to your attention personally through this week’s study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and then pray about what you shared. If you are on your own, write it down, pray about it, and consider sharing your thoughts with someone this week.

DIG DEEPER

Exploring Faith:

• As you consider Christianity, what does it mean to you that our God is capable of expressing emotions, like compassion? Does it surprise you, encourage you, etc.?

Growing in Faith

• Take time with some or all of the verses about the compassion of God this week. Perhaps pick one or two to memorize or meditate upon all week.
• Where do you sense God calling you to greater compassion toward others?

Centered in Faith

• Suffering is difficult. Are there ways you can be the presence of God by entering into the suffering of others this week? Is there one person or family you will specifically pray for or reach out to this season?