George Hutcheson
17 The people therefore that was with him, when he called Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, bare record.
18 For this cause the people also met him, for that they heard that he had done this miracle.
In these verses is recorded what was the seen cause (for the unseen was the over-ruling hand of God) moving the multitude to come out and conveigh him in state, to wit, Some of the people (of whom, see chap. 11.45.) their testimony concerning the miracle wrought on Lazarus; which as they had published before, and so drew many other people out; so over again they proclaime it on that day, that they may contribute to the solemnity of the triumph. Whence learn. 1. It is the part of all such as have been witnesses to Christs working, on themselves or others, to publish the same to his praise: for, the people that was with him when he called Lazarus, &c. bare record. 2 As it is at all times a sinne to smother the praises of Christ; So, in particular, in dayes of solemnity, it is our sin not to joine and bring in what we know, to make up the song; for, they bring in that particular to make up the triumph. 3. In a day of Christs power, and when he is to get glory to himselfe, he can furnish means, and make them effectual, to bring it to passe; for, he makes that miracle an occasion to bring about this triumph. 4. It they encourage men to publish the praise of Christ; working, as they know of it, that God may make their weak endeavours effectual to work upon very many; for the testimony of some drew out this great confluence to Christ. 5. It is the duty of them who hear any thing of Christs commendation, to go and seek him, and do homage to him; for for this cause the people also met him, for that they had heard that he had done this miracle.
