Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 11:3

"The sisters therefore sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick." — John 11:3 (ASV)

Knowing Jesus’ interest in them and the power of God to heal the sick, the sisters sent for him when Lazarus became ill. The malady must have been serious, for they were sufficiently alarmed to call Jesus back to the area where a price had been set on his head. The appeal was on the basis of love, and they felt confident that he would be prompt.