King James Version

What Does John 11:22 Mean?

John 11:22 in the King James Version says “But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee. — study this verse from John chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee.

John 11:22 · KJV


Context

20

Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat still in the house.

21

Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.

22

But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee.

23

Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again.

24

Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Martha's faith rises above disappointment. Despite what has happened, she affirms ongoing confidence: 'even now' God will grant Jesus' requests. She doesn't explicitly request Lazarus' resurrection—perhaps not daring to hope—but expresses open-ended faith. Her words demonstrate the Reformed doctrine of progressive faith: despite incomplete understanding, she trusts Christ's access to the Father and divine willingness to answer. This faith will be rewarded beyond her imagination.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The phrase 'even now' suggests Martha's faith extended beyond healing to resurrection, though she may not have fully grasped this herself. Her language echoes intercessory prayer patterns in Jewish tradition.

Reflection Questions

  1. How can we maintain 'even now' faith when circumstances seem beyond hope?
  2. What does Martha's open-ended trust teach about prayer without dictating outcomes?
  3. In what ways does incomplete understanding not negate genuine faith?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 14 words
ἀλλὰ1 of 14

But

G235

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

καὶ2 of 14

that even

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

νῦν3 of 14

now

G3568

"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate

οἶδα4 of 14

I know

G1492

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

ὅτι5 of 14

whatsoever

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

ὅσα6 of 14
G3745

as (much, great, long, etc.) as

ἂν7 of 14
G302

whatsoever

αἰτήσῃ8 of 14

thou wilt ask

G154

to ask (in genitive case)

τὸν9 of 14
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

θεός10 of 14

God

G2316

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

δώσει11 of 14

will give

G1325

to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)

σοι12 of 14

it thee

G4671

to thee

13 of 14
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

θεός14 of 14

God

G2316

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

John 11:22 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to John 11:22 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Test Your Knowledge

Continue Your Study