The Significance of Lazarus

"Since this life is God's and cannot die, it follows that everyone born anew into possessing this life is said to have eternal life."   - Watchman Nee

Lazarus is the subject in this noteworthy bit of scripture (John 11:1-46). He was a follower of Jesus who lived in the town of Bethany, which was close to Jerusalem. He also happened to be the brother of the sisters Mary and Martha whom we heard about in Luke 10:38–42. Besides being friends and disciples of Jesus, he loved these three very much (John 11:5).

One day, Jesus received an urgent message that his friend Lazarus was seriously ill. Naturally, Lazarus' sisters Mary and Martha wanted Jesus to come and heal him as he was nearing death by the minute. Unfortunately, Lazarus dies before Jesus can make it there. By the time he arrives in Bethany the man has been gone for four days.

Now, Mary and Martha were probably a little angry at Jesus because he took so long to get there. They were probably a little confused and frustrated, too. But, they never lost their faith in him. In the end, Jesus did go to Lazarus' tomb and raised him from the dead (John 11:42-44).

Let's think for a moment, "Why was Lazarus brought back?" We know that death is the rule of the world, and not merely a catastrophe or misfortune. And Jesus never did anything as big as this without a reason. He just didn't.

It couldn't have been because Jesus wanted Lazarus to just go on living and working as usual. We all know that even the most productive and worthy person must leave this world when their time comes. Nor was it done for the sake of his loved ones.

Yes, Jesus felt bad for his sisters, and also grieved at the passing of his friend (John 11:35). But this wasn't it either. This was not a permanent remedy for death. He knew that, although brought back to life for now, Lazarus would die again at some point.

Finally, it wasn't because death is some sort of accident to be condemned. It's part of God's plan for us. We are blessed with this life and the opportunities it brings. When we pass away our place is passed to another. What would this world be like if all who were ever born never died? It's perfectly natural.

No, Jesus himself gives us the reason for raising Lazarus from the dead. Lazarus' illness, death, and resurrection served to aspire us to give glory to God, and increase our faith. And that we might know that death could not conquer he whom the Father sent (John 3:16).

Scripture: Romans 6:23; John 17:3; Romans 10:13; John 5:24; Luke 23:43

Prayer: And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved, amen   -Acts 4:12

May the Lord bless you,

Shawna