The Miracles of Jesus Lesson 21: Raising Lazarus

John 11:1-46

Context of the Raising of Lazarus in John’s Gospel (John 10-11) John’s gospel records seven signs that

signify important truths about Jesus or His ministry.

This sign is clearly connected to Jesus’ claim to be “the resurrection and the life.” (John 11:25)

Jesus had recently escaped an attempt to kill him in Jerusalem. (John 10:31, 39)

He and His disciples were staying “beyond the Jordan” (John 10:40)

Background to the Raising of Lazarus John 11 Mary and Martha sent word from their home in

Bethany that their brother Lazarus is sick. Jesus loved this family, probably more than

they realized (11:3, 5) He was an occasional visitor in their home

(Luke 10:38-42; John 12) After receiving this news, Jesus spent two more

days where He was. Jesus then informs the disciples that Lazarus

“sleeps,” and that He intends to go to Judea to “wake him.”

Aerial Photo of Bethany

Details of the MiracleRaising Lazarus (John 11)

When Jesus arrives near Bethany, Lazarus has been dead four days. (11:17)

Martha goes out to meet Jesus before He arrives at the house.

She says, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that

whatever You ask of God, God will give You.” (11:21-22)

Details of the MiracleRaising Lazarus (John 11)

Jesus challenges Martha to believe that He is the resurrection and the life.

Martha confesses her belief. Mary comes with Jewish mourners to the place

where Jesus is. Mary makes the same

statement of faith that her sister made, but she is more

emotional.

Details of the MiracleRaising Lazarus (John 11)

Jesus groaned in His spirit, was troubled & wept When He saw others weeping. Because of His love for Lazarus When some of the Jews questioned

His abilities They come to the tomb

and Jesus commands them to “take away the stone.”

Martha objects for “by this time there is a stench.”

Jesus challenges her to believe!

Details of the MiracleRaising Lazarus (John 11)

They took the stone away. Jesus prayed aloud. Then He cried, “Lazarus,

come forth!” Lazarus came out,

still bound in grave clothes.

Jesus commanded that he be set free.

Many believed, but some did not.

Lessons for Us Jesus is God and Man. Jesus is patient, and we must patiently wait for

Him. The ultimate faith in Jesus accepts

Him as “the resurrection and the life.”

Prayer helps. Jesus raises the dead by

His word! (Jn. 5:28-29) Some will not accept the

truth, no matter what evidence is offered.