Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 11:9

"Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If a man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world." — John 11:9 (ASV)

Jesus countered the disciples’ objection with this most enigmatic statement. That expression may have been a current proverb, perhaps similar to his remark in 9:4. In both instances, Jesus was thinking of his obligation to perform the work the Father had committed to him. Realizing that he was acting in accord with that purpose, Jesus resolutely decided to return to Jerusalem in spite of the peril. To digress from God’s purpose is to walk in darkness; to remain in fellowship with God is to walk in the light (cf. 1Jn 1:6).