John Calvin Commentary John 11:16

"Thomas therefore, who is called Didymus, said unto his fellow-disciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him." — John 11:16 (ASV)

Then Thomas. Until now, the disciples had endeavored to hinder Christ from going. Thomas is now prepared to follow, but it is without confidence; or, at least, he does not fortify himself by the promise of Christ, so as to follow Him with cheerfulness and composure.

Let us go, that we may die with him. This is the language of despair, for they ought to have entertained no fears about their own life. The phrase, with him, may be explained as referring either to Lazarus or to Christ. If we refer it to Lazarus, it will be ironical, as if Thomas had said, "What use will it be to go there, unless the only way we can discharge the duty of friends is by seeking to die along with him?" Yet I greatly prefer the other meaning, that Thomas does not refuse to die with Christ. But this, as I have said, proceeds from inconsiderate zeal, for he ought rather to have taken courage from faith in the promise.