John 11:17 (KJV) reads: "Then when Jesus came, he found that he had lain in the grave four days already."

The Gospel of John, written by the apostle John, is a significant and beautiful account of the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This particular verse serves as a prelude to one of the most iconic and powerful miracles performed by Jesus – the resurrection of Lazarus.

The context of this verse is the death of Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha, who were close friends of Jesus. When Jesus received news of Lazarus' illness, he intentionally delayed his return to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, so that God's glory might be revealed through the miracle that was to come. This delay was also meant to strengthen the faith of those involved and to show that nothing is too difficult for God.

Upon reaching Bethany, Jesus was informed that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. In Jewish tradition, it was believed that the soul of a deceased person lingered near the body for three days before departing. Therefore, the fact that Lazarus had been in the grave for four days served as confirmation of his death. This detail further emphasizes the miraculous nature of the forthcoming resurrection.

Symbolically, the four days that Lazarus lay in the grave represent both the finality of death and the extent of God's power. In Jewish custom, it was believed that a person's spirit lingered near the body for three days, after which the person would be irrevocably dead. By deliberately waiting for four days before raising Lazarus, Jesus overturned this belief and demonstrated his authority over death.

This verse also highlights a key theme found throughout the Gospel of John – that Jesus is the resurrection and the life. Through this miracle, Jesus not only displays his power over death but also foreshadows his own impending death and resurrection. Just as he brought life to Lazarus, so too would he conquer death through his own resurrection, offering eternal life to all who believe in him.

Furthermore, the verse serves as a reminder of God's perfect timing. Despite the urgency of the situation, Jesus' delay was intentional and purposeful. This teaches us that God's timing is always perfect, even when it may not align with our own expectations.

The miracle of Lazarus' resurrection is a profound demonstration of Jesus' identity as the Son of God and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the promised Messiah. It also poses a challenge to those who witness it, forcing them to confront the reality of Jesus' divinity and to make a decision about their own faith.

In conclusion, John 11:17 is a crucial verse in the Gospel of John, setting the stage for one of the most famous and impactful miracles performed by Jesus. It beautifully showcases his power over death, his divine timing, and his identity as the resurrection and the life. This verse invites us to reflect on the depth of Jesus' love and the assurance of eternal life that is found in him.