The Jews, with all their malice and hatred, shall not make it come one hour sooner than God has appointed. It is certain that Jesus received no intimation of Lazarus' death from any person. He knew it through that power by which he knows all things. It was very common among the Jews to express death by sleep, and the expressions falling asleep and sleeping with their fathers 12 Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. Perhaps we will not have to go after all.
Sleep is a remedy for every disease.
There can be no need to risk your life by going into Judea to awake our friend, Lazarus. He will awaken when he has recovered. Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellow disciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him. Thomas signifies a twin, one who had a brother or sister born with him at the same time.