The Raising of Lazarus
John 11:1-46
I. OBSERVATION
1. Context 11:1-2
The city of Bethany is now called Lazaria (The city of Lazarus). Why would an Arab town’s name be changed and survive for 2000 years if something amazing had not happened there. Arab’s aren’t going to do that for Christians benefit.
2. Content 11:3-44 Beyond the Jordan (Jesus with Disciples) 11:3-16
The difficulty (3) Lazarus was sick and about to die.
The delay (4-6) Jesus delays going to Bethany until after Lazarus has died. Again, the delay was so that God would receive more glory.
The discussion (7-16)
(i) Safety (7-10)
Jesus could have healed or raised Lazarus from a distance, but perhaps he wants to go to Bethany to test the disciples willingness to follow Him into danger. This was more preparation for the persecution they would experience after His ascension. Interestingly, it is “doubting” Thomas who has boldness and encourages the rest of the disciples to follow Jesus.
(ii) Sleep (11-16)
Here we see the omniscience of Jesus. No one told Him that Lazarus was dead.
b. At Bethany (Jesus with Mary and Martha) 11:17-32
c. At burial site (Jesus with Lazarus) 11:33-46
His anguish (33-38) Even though Jesus knew He was going to raise Lazarus, He wept with the others. We have an advocate with God who understands us and empathizes with us.
His actions (39-44)
His audience (45-46)
II. INTERPRETATION
“Jesus is the resurrection and the life” is stated in the miracle and is the main point. Whoever believes will never die.
Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, sent into the world to save man. Martha’s confession vs 27.
III. APPLICATIONS
Even seeing a resurrection doesn’t make everyone believe.
I should accept the timing of God. His delay (from our perspective) is for our good and brings Him greater glory.
I should find comfort in the fact that Jesus understands my pain, sorrow, disappointment, etc.
I should have compassion and hurt when others hurt.
There is a future hope for all who believe. At times it seems that God gives us the first half of our life to enjoy earth and the last half to anticipate heaven.
If there is no resurrection, there is no hope.
When bad things happen, it doesn’t mean God doesn’t care.
Adapted from outline at – http://bible.org/seriespage/raising-lazarus