The Resurrection of Lazarus

For the last year or so, our church has been studying verse by verse through the Gospel according to John. A few weeks ago, we arrived at the 11^th chapter, which details the events surrounding the resurrection of Lazarus. There are tons of both practical and theological lessons to be learned from this amazing narrative. So, it wasn’t until this past Lord’s Day, Easter Sunday curiously enough, that we finally got to the section that features Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. As I worked my way through this passage, I detailed five truths about the resurrection of Lazarus that I want to share with you. 

First, the resurrection of Lazarus is a historical fact. This is not some fabricated story invented by overzealous men to make Jesus sound like something He wasn’t. While those of us who grew up in church and have long held a high view of Scripture do not question the validity of this miracle, there are many who do. There are tons of folks who think this miracle, and all the miracles mentioned in the Bible, are fake and fictitious. Yet, there is a plethora of reliable historical records that will validate this story. In fact, one could rightly argue, there is more extant data that verifies this (and other) supernatural events spoken of in Scripture, than any other major event in human history. No honest investigation into the legitimacy of Biblical claims will merit unbelief. Instead, this was a real event in the life of real person, who really died, whom Jesus literally raised from the dead. 

Secondly, the resurrection of Lazarus reveals the Divine nature and power of Jesus. Simply stated, Only God can raise the dead. Therefore, Jesus is God. While it is true there are others mentioned in Scripture whom God used to raise the dead, I assure you those men would readily admit, it wasn’t me – it was God who did this. Contrary to what some suggest, Jesus was not just a man, nor just a good man – He was the Godman who lived among men. Jesus had the power not just to raise Lazarus but to raise Himself from the dead. And only God can raise the dead … therefore, Jesus is God in the flesh. Friend, if refuse to believe that, you are not a Christian. 

Third, the resurrection of Lazarus is a portrait of conversion. While I am not suggesting this is the primary point of the passage, because it isn’t; yet it is quite impossible to study this event, and not see a wonderful portrait of conversion. What happened to Lazarus physically is remarkably similar to what happens to a sinner spiritually when they are born-again. Lazarus was physically dead and prior to regeneration we are spiritually dead. Lazarus had been lifeless in the ground for four days and could not raise himself from physical death any more than we can give ourselves spiritual life. Lazarus would have remained dead, had Jesus not powerfully and effectually called him, and the same is true for every born-again believer. There is nothing we can do to raise ourselves up from spiritual death. Instead, we are fully and completely dependent on the resurrecting power of Jesus to raise us from death to life. 

Fourth, the resurrection of Lazarus is symbolic of the resurrection at the last day. While I am still working out what all I believe about the end times, this much I am certain of; there is coming a day, when Jesus is going to return and with the shout of the archangel, the voice of God, and the sound of a trumpet, the dead in Christ are going to rise immortal. And in a moment, the twinkling of an eye, the body of every believer will be gloriously transformed and made new … just like what happened to Lazarus! His body, though dead and decaying was immediately changed and given new life. The same wonderful thing will happen when Christ returns! Are you looking forward to that coming future resurrection? I am. 

Fifth and finally, the resurrection of Lazarus is a shadow of the coming resurrection of Jesus. You may not be aware of the timeline, but Christ raising Lazarus from the dead happens just a very short time before He raises Himself from the dead. Anyone who has spent any measurable amount of time studying this text can tell you, what happens in John chapter 11 is just the appetizer for the main course. The resurrection of Lazarus is just the opening act, if you will, that leads into the main event. What happens with Lazarus is just giving the people of Jerusalem a little foretaste of what is going to happen very soon, when Jesus raises Himself from the dead. 

While more could certainly be said about the resurrection of Lazarus, my prayer is that you believe this was a real supernatural miracle accomplished by the Son of God that was simply a foreshadow of His own resurrection. Further still, I hope you have placed your faith in the finished work of Jesus of Nazareth because He is the Resurrection and the Life! And regardless of what the skeptics might say, one day the risen King will return in glorious power and all the dead in Christ will rise to newness of life and never face death again. Are you ready for that final day?