John 11:1–44
Introduction
The raising of Lazarus stands as one of the clearest revelations of who Jesus Christ is. This miracle is not merely an act of compassion toward a grieving family; it is a public declaration of Christ’s divine authority over death itself. In this account, Jesus reveals His glory, strengthens the faith of His disciples, confronts unbelief, and points forward to His own resurrection and the final resurrection of the saints.
The Setting and the Delay of Christ
Lazarus of Bethany was loved by Jesus, along with his sisters Mary and Martha. When word came that Lazarus was sick, Jesus did not rush to Bethany. Instead, He remained where He was for two more days (John 11:6).
This delay was not indifference. Scripture makes clear the purpose: “This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby” (John 11:4). Christ’s timing always serves the Father’s will. What appears as delay to man is often divine preparation for a greater revelation.
Jesus Declares His Identity
When Jesus arrived, Lazarus had been dead four days. Martha met Him with faith mixed with grief. Jesus responded with one of the most powerful declarations in all of Scripture:
“I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live” (John 11:25).
Here, Jesus does not say He brings resurrection—He says He is the resurrection. Life is not found in a future event alone, but in a Person. This truth is foundational to Christian doctrine and salvation itself.
The Humanity and Compassion of Christ
Before performing the miracle, Jesus wept (John 11:35). These tears reveal the true humanity of Christ. Though He knew He would raise Lazarus, He entered fully into the sorrow of those who mourned.
This moment shows that divine power does not cancel compassion. The same Lord who commands the grave also walks with His people in their pain.
The Command That Conquers Death
Standing before the tomb, Jesus prayed openly to the Father, not for His own sake, but so that the people would believe (John 11:42). Then He cried with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come forth.”
At the word of Christ, death obeyed. Lazarus emerged from the grave, still bound in grave clothes. Jesus then commanded, “Loose him, and let him go” (John 11:44).
This miracle demonstrates absolute authority. Death did not resist. The grave did not delay. Creation itself responds to the voice of its Creator.
Prophetic and Doctrinal Significance
The raising of Lazarus points directly to end-time truth. It foreshadows the resurrection of Christ and the future resurrection of believers. Jesus later declares, “The hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice” (John 5:28).
Just as Lazarus heard the call of Christ, so will all mankind. This miracle stands as a witness that resurrection is certain, judgment is real, and eternal life is secured only in Christ.
It also exposes the hardness of the human heart. Though many believed, others plotted to kill Jesus (John 11:53). Light reveals truth, but it also exposes rebellion.
Conclusion
The raising of Lazarus is a defining testimony of the gospel. It reveals Jesus Christ as fully God and fully man, Lord over death, and the only source of eternal life. This miracle calls every reader to faith, obedience, and hope beyond the grave.
Christ still calls the dead to life—spiritually now, and physically at His return. The same voice that called Lazarus from the tomb will one day call the redeemed into everlasting glory.