John 11:3

Sent unto him. That is, sent a messenger.

Lovest. Gv.phileo, “to love as a friend.” For a distinction between phileo and agapad, the love of admiration, respect, and esteem, see on Matt. 5:43, 44. Agapad is used in John 11:5 for the love of Jesus for Lazarus and his sisters. The sisters’ prayer for their sick loved one was uttered in simple words indicative of their intimate friendliness and love. They felt that Jesus needed simply to be informed of their need and He would come immediately to their aid. When He tarried they could not understand His delay. Grief filled their hearts when their brother passed away. Their prayers appeared to be unanswered. Yet He who understood all and who was acquainted with the future had in view a more glorious answer than they anticipated.