John 11:13

13 Jesus meant that Lazarus had died, but they thought he meant natural sleep.

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 Jesus said this and then added, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I will go and wake him up."

12 The disciples answered, "If he is asleep, Lord, he will get well."

13 Jesus meant that Lazarus had died, but they thought he meant natural sleep.

14 So Jesus told them plainly, "Lazarus is dead,

15 but for your sake I am glad that I was not with him, so that you will believe. Let us go to him."