John 11:28 (KJV)

What does John 11:28 mean?

John 11:28 describes Martha going to her sister Mary in private to tell her that Jesus (“the Master”) has arrived and is asking for her. Martha delivers this message quietly, showing care and urgency, as Jesus has come in the midst of their grief over Lazarus’s death.

In this scene, Martha has just spoken with Jesus outside the village after her brother Lazarus has died. She then leaves Jesus, finds Mary, and tells her secretly that Jesus is here and wants to see her. The verse highlights the close relationship between Jesus and the sisters, as well as the sensitive way Martha approaches Mary during a difficult moment.

The Greek behind John 11:28

• The word "secretly" (λάθρα, lathra) means quietly or privately. This suggests Martha wanted to avoid drawing attention, perhaps because many people were mourning with them, or to spare Mary from a public scene.
• "Master" (διδάσκαλος, didaskalos) is the Greek word for "teacher." Calling Jesus this shows the respect and affection the sisters had for him, and how he was known among his followers.
• The verb "called" (φωνέω, phoneō) means to call out or summon. Here, it emphasizes that Jesus was specifically asking for Mary, not just arriving generally.

Why John 11:28 matters

• This verse shows the personal attention Jesus gives to Mary and Martha, highlighting his care for individuals even in a crowd.
• The detail that Martha speaks "secretly" helps explain why Mary’s later actions (coming quickly to Jesus) surprise the other mourners, setting up the next part of the story.
• The use of "Master" or "Teacher" for Jesus reminds readers of his role and relationship with his followers, even in moments of sorrow.