ACC ~ John 11 v15

ESTABLISHING THE DISCIPLES’ FAITH

HIPPOLYTUS Is he who does not desire the death of a sinner, [1] now glad of the death of a friend? I rejoice, [Jesus says], not for my own sake, nor for the sake of the dead, but for your sake. For I need this death as the foundation for your faith. ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN AND THE RESURRECTION OF LAZARUS. [2]

[1] Ezek 18:23, 32; 33:11.

[2] AEG 4:167*; GCS 1 2:218.

CHRIST’S LOVE WOULD HAVE OVERCOME HIM

CYRIL OF ALEXANDRIA Here it is as though Jesus says, If I had been there, he would not have died, because I would have had pity on him when he was suffering only a little. But now in my absence his death has taken place, so that, by raising him to life I shall bestow upon you a great advantage through your faith in me. And Christ says this, not to indicate that he is only able to do his divine work when present, but rather to show that if he had been present he would not have been able to neglect helping his friend who was dying. COMMENTARY ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 7. [1]

[1] LF 48:114-15**.

Jn