Commentaries on Gospel Events
Return to Home of Lazarus and Plot to Kill Lazarus
A. D. 30
Bethany
There is a slight confusion between Matthew, Mark and John as to when was the supper at Lazarus' home at which Mary used up the very valuable ointment. John puts it nine days ahead of Matthew and Mark's version. (Luke omits it)
John was the more likely eye witness, so I would call his story the more aptly correct as to time.
Matthew never has much regard for chronology. Mark looks as if he took his cue from Matthew.
John
Joh 11:55
And the Jews' passover was nigh at hand: and many went out of the country up to Jerusalem before the passover, to purify themselves.Joh 11:56
Then sought they for Jesus, and spake among themselves, as they stood in the temple, What think ye, that he will not come to the feast?Joh 11:57
Now both the chief priests and the Pharisees had given a commandment, that, if any man knew where he were, he should shew it, that they might take him.Joh 12:1
Then Jesus six days before the passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus was which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead.
John
Joh 12:9
Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.Joh 12:10
But the chief priests consulted that they might put Lazarus also to death;Joh 12:11
Because that by reason of him many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus.