12:1
There are three similar incidents recorded in the gospels. The one in Luke is so different that it is certainly a separate incident. However, there are a number of similarities between this and the one in Matthew/Mark that it is possible, but by no means certain, that they are the same incident. Whatever the case, we will endeavour to see what we can learn from the incident as told by John. We are getting close to the Passover, and this probably takes place on the Sabbath before the Passover. It occurs in Bethany, where Lazarus was, and John is interested in it partly because of its relationship to the raising of Lazarus.
12:2
A dinner was held for Jesus there. The similar incident in Matthew/Mark is held at the house of Simon the Leper, and there is no mention of Lazarus. Martha was serving, and soon we will see Mary worshipping Jesus. This picture is consistent with what we learn of the two of them elsewhere. Lazarus was reclining at the table. He was maybe something of a minor celebrity because of his being raised from the dead.
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