Lazarus’s story is told in John 11:1-12:11
Lazarus – The Man Jesus Raised from the Dead
The story of Lazarus is one of the most powerful and hope-filled accounts in the Bible. Found in John chapter 11, it shows us not only the deep love Jesus had for his friends but also his incredible power over life and death.
Who Was Lazarus?
Lazarus was a man who lived in a village called Bethany, near Jerusalem. He had two sisters, Mary and Martha, and all three were close friends of Jesus. The Bible tells us that Jesus loved this family deeply and often visited them.
Lazarus Falls Ill
One day, Lazarus became very sick. His sisters, worried about his condition, sent a message to Jesus asking Him to come quickly. But instead of rushing to their home, Jesus waited two more days before going to Bethany. During that time, Lazarus died.
When Jesus finally arrived, Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. Mary and Martha were heartbroken. They both told Jesus that if He had come sooner, their brother wouldn’t have died.
Jesus Brings Hope
Even though Jesus knew what He was about to do, He wept when He saw their pain. This moment shows us that Jesus truly cares about our feelings and understands our sorrow.
Then, Jesus asked to be taken to the tomb. Despite people warning Him that the body would smell after four days, Jesus insisted.
The Miracle: Lazarus Lives Again
Standing in front of the tomb, Jesus prayed and then shouted, “Lazarus, come out!” To everyone’s amazement, Lazarus walked out of the tomb—alive! He was still wrapped in burial cloths, but he was breathing and well.
This miracle stunned the people who were there. Many began to believe in Jesus because they saw His power with their own eyes.
Lazarus After the Miracle
After being raised, Lazarus became a living reminder of what Jesus could do. In fact, so many people started following Jesus because of Lazarus that some religious leaders planned to kill Lazarus, hoping to stop others from believing.
What Can We Learn?
Lazarus’ story teaches us a lot:
- Jesus has power over death. Nothing is impossible for Him.
- God’s timing is different from ours. Even when things seem late or lost, He’s still in control.
- Jesus cares deeply. He shares in our grief and pain.
- Our lives can point others to Jesus. Just like Lazarus became a living testimony, we can too.
Conclusion
The story of Lazarus is a reminder that no situation is too hopeless for Jesus. When everything seems over, God can still bring new life. And just like Lazarus, we can trust that Jesus is with us in both our darkest moments and our greatest joys.