‘Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister, and Lazarus.'

It is now emphasised that Jesus loved Mary, Martha and Lazarus. The author wishes it to be known that what followed was not to be seen as an indication that Jesus did not care, but rather that He cared deeply. Notice how he also balances out Martha and Mary. Mary had been especially mentioned in John 11:2, so Martha was especially mentioned here.

Continues after advertising
Continues after advertising