Full Story of Lazarus and Resurrection and Mortality , A Sign of Jesus’ Divinity

The story of Lazarus is one of the most profound accounts in the New Testament, illustrating Jesus' power over death and his compassion for those who mourn. The account is primarily found in the Gospel of John, chapter 11. Here is a summary of the full story, the death of Lazarus. Lazarus was a man from Bethany, a village near Jerusalem, and the brother of Martha and Mary. The three siblings were close friends of Jesus. One day, Lazarus became very ill, and his sisters sent a message to Jesus, informing him of their brother's condition. They believed that Jesus could heal him, as they had seen him perform many miracles. Jesus' response. When Jesus received the news about Lazarus, he said, This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it. John 11. 4. NIV. Despite his deep love for Lazarus and his sisters, Jesus stayed where he was for two more days. After this delay, he told his disciples that they were going back to Judea. The disciples were hesitant because they had recently fled from that area due to threats against Jesus' life. Jesus and his disciples arrive in Bethany. When Jesus finally arrived in Bethany, he found that Lazarus had already been dead for four days. Many Jews had come to comfort Martha and Mary in their loss. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, while Mary stayed at home. Martha expressed her grief and faith, saying, Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died, but I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask. John 11. 21. 22. NIV. Jesus comforts Martha. Jesus replied to Martha, Your brother will rise again. John 11. 23. NIV. Martha acknowledged her belief in the resurrection at the last day, but Jesus declared, I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die, and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this? John 11. 25. 26. NIV. Martha affirmed her faith, saying, Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world. John 11. 27. NIV. Mary joins Jesus. After speaking with Martha, Jesus asked to see Mary. When Mary arrived and saw Jesus, she fell at his feet, saying, Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. John 11. 32. NIV. Seeing her weeping and the mourners with her, Jesus was deeply moved and troubled, and he asked, Where have you laid him? John 11. 34. NIV. They led him to the tomb. Jesus weeps at the tomb. Jesus was overcome with emotion. John 11. 35. Famously noted as the shortest verse in the Bible, simply states, Jesus wept. NIV. This moment demonstrated Jesus' compassion and empathy for the suffering of others. Jesus wept during the account of Lazarus' death and resurrection as recorded in John 11. 35. Which contains the shortest verse in the Bible, Jesus wept. His weeping can be understood through several important perspectives. 1. Empathy and compassion. Shared grief. When Jesus arrived in Bethany and saw Mary, Martha, and the other mourners weeping for Lazarus, he was moved by their sorrow. His tears reflect his deep compassion for those who were grieving. Jesus was not indifferent to human suffering. Instead, he entered into the pain of those around him. Emotional response. Jesus' weeping demonstrates his genuine emotional connection to humanity. He understood the pain of loss and felt the weight of sorrow that sin and death bring into the world. The reality of death. Human mortality. Jesus, while fully divine, was also fully human. His tears signify the sadness associated with death, highlighting the reality that death is an enemy that brings heartache and separation. Even knowing he would soon raise Lazarus, he was still affected by the finality of death and the grief it causes. Impact of sin. In a broader theological context, Jesus' weeping can also be seen as a response to the effects of sin in the world. Death entered the world through sin, and Jesus' tears reflect his sorrow over the brokenness of creation. Free. For knowledge of his own death. Foreshadowing. Some interpretations suggest that Jesus' weeping might also foreshadow his own impending death. He was aware of the suffering he would soon endure on the cross, as well as the grief that would be felt by his followers. His tears could symbolize his awareness of the ultimate sacrifice he was about to make for humanity. For authenticity of his humanity. Genuine humanity. Jesus' tears serve to emphasize his genuine humanity. He is portrayed as someone who experiences a full range of human emotions, making him relatable to those who suffer. His ability to empathize with human pain is part of what makes his ministry so impactful. Divine sympathy. The act of Jesus' weeping highlights the intersection of his divine and human natures. While he is fully God, he also fully experiences human emotions, allowing him to sympathize with our weaknesses and sorrows. Five. A response to unbelief. Reaction to the unbelief. Some scholars note that Jesus' weeping could also reflect his sadness over the lack of faith among the people. Despite witnessing his miracles and teachings, some still struggled to believe in him. This disappointment in their unbelief may have contributed to his emotional response. Jesus wept as a profound expression of empathy and compassion for those mourning the death of Lazarus. His tears reflect the deep emotional pain associated with human suffering and death, as well as his authentic humanity. By weeping, Jesus demonstrated that he fully understands and shares in our grief, while also pointing toward the hope and restoration that he would soon bring through his own death and resurrection. The miracle of resurrection. Jesus then ordered the stone to be removed from the entrance of the tomb. Martha. Concerned about the odor of the decaying body, expressed her hesitation. Jesus reminded her, did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God? John 11 40. NIV. They took away the stone, and Jesus looked up and prayed to the Father, thanking him for hearing his prayers. Then, in a loud voice, Jesus called out, Lazarus, come out. John 11 43. NIV. To Evrion's astonishment, Lazarus emerged from the tomb, still wrapped in burial cloths. Jesus instructed them to take off the grave clothes and let him go. The raising of Lazarus was one of Jesus' most significant miracles, and Lazarus himself played an important role in the unfolding of Jesus' ministry and the lead up to his crucifixion. Here are several reasons why Lazarus and his resurrection are considered so important. 1. Demonstration of Jesus' power over death. Lazarus' resurrection was the most dramatic and powerful example of Jesus' ability to conquer death, unlike other resurrections performed by Jesus. Lazarus had been dead for four days, a period during which decay would have set in. The miracle clearly demonstrated that Jesus had authority even over the grave, reinforcing his claim that he is the resurrection and the life. John 11 25. This miracle was a preview of Jesus' own resurrection, showing that he holds power over life and death. 2. A sign of Jesus' divinity. Raising Lazarus from the dead was a profound sign of Jesus' divine nature. When Jesus delayed going to Bethany after hearing about Lazarus' illness, he told his disciples, this sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it. John 11 4. By resurrecting Lazarus, Jesus revealed his divine glory in a way that no one could deny. This act confirmed that he was not merely a prophet or teacher, but the Son of God, with authority over death itself. 3. Strengthening of faith. Lazarus' resurrection served to strengthen the faith of those who witnessed the miracle and those who heard about it. Jesus explicitly stated before performing the miracle, I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. John 11 15. By raising Lazarus, Jesus helped his disciples and others grow in their faith, providing tangible proof that he was indeed the promised Messiah. The miracle was performed not only out of compassion for Lazarus' family, but also to solidify the belief of his followers in who he was. 4. Jesus' compassion and humanity. The story of Lazarus also illustrates Jesus' deep compassion and humanity. Even though he knew he would raise Lazarus from the dead, Jesus was deeply moved by the grief of Lazarus' sisters, Mary and Martha, and those mourning with them. When Jesus saw their pain, Jesus wept. John 11 35. Showing his empathy and his shared sorrow over human suffering and death. This short but powerful verse demonstrates the dual nature of Jesus, both fully divine and fully human. 5. Catalyst for the plot to crucify Jesus. The resurrection of Lazarus was a pivotal event that accelerated the religious leader's decision to put Jesus to death. After this miracle, many Jews who had been mourning with Mary and Martha came to believe in Jesus. However, some reported the event to the Pharisees, leading the Jewish leaders to take immediate action. So from that day on they plotted to take his life. John 11 53. The raising of Lazarus was such an undeniable and public miracle that it became a turning point for the religious authorities. They feared that Jesus' growing influence would lead to unrest and potential Roman intervention, threatening their power and position. Thus, the miracle of Lazarus directly contributed to the chain of events, leading to Jesus' arrest, trial, and crucifixion. 6. Lazarus as a living testimony. After Lazarus was raised from the dead, he became a living witness to Jesus' power. Many people came to see him, not just out of curiosity, but to confirm that Jesus had indeed raised him from the dead. Lazarus' resurrection was a powerful testimony to Jesus' divine authority, and as a result, even more people began to believe in Jesus. Meanwhile, a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. John 12. 9. The chief priests even plotted to kill Lazarus as well, because, on account of him, many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and believing in him. John 12 10 11. Lazarus' very existence after his resurrection was proof of Jesus' power, and his life became a living proclamation of the Messiah's identity. 7. Foreshadowing Jesus' own death and resurrection. The raising of Lazarus served as a powerful foreshadowing of Jesus' own resurrection. Jesus told Martha, I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die, and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. John 11 25 26. By raising Lazarus, Jesus illustrated the central truth of the gospel, that through him, death has no final power, and eternal life is possible for those who believe in him. Lazarus' resurrection prefigured Jesus' own victory over the grave, which would take place shortly after, and offered a glimpse of the hope of resurrection for all believers. Lazarus was important because his resurrection was a climactic miracle in Jesus' ministry that underscored his divine authority, compassion, and power over death. It revealed Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God, strengthened the faith of his followers, and set in motion the final events that would lead to his crucifixion and resurrection. Lazarus' life became a living testimony to the reality of Jesus' mission and the promise of eternal life for all who believe. After his dramatic resurrection by Jesus, the Bible does not provide much detail about what happened to Lazarus later in life. However, based on what we know from scripture and some early Christian traditions, here is a summary of what might have happened to Lazarus. 1. Lazarus became a living testimony. After Lazarus was raised from the dead, he became a powerful, living witness to Jesus' divine power and identity. As a result, many Jews who saw or heard about his resurrection came to believe in Jesus. This led to a significant increase in Jesus' followers, especially in the town of Bethany, where Lazarus lived. Meanwhile, a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and believing in him. 2. Lazarus' resurrection was such an impactful miracle that the religious leaders not only sought to kill Jesus but also plotted to kill Lazarus, fearing that his living testimony was drawing too many people to believe in Jesus. Involvement in Jesus' final week. Lazarus was likely present during Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the week leading up to his crucifixion, since the Gospel of John notes that many who witnessed Lazarus' resurrection were part of the crowd that welcomed Jesus as the Messiah. The crowd that was with him when he called Lazarus from the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to spread the word. Many people, because they had heard that he had performed this sign, went out to meet him. John 12 17 18 Though the Bible doesn't mention Lazarus specifically during the events of Holy Week, it's likely that he, along with his sisters Mary and Martha, remained close to Jesus and supported him during these final days. 3. Early Christian tradition about Lazarus' later life. While the Bible is silent about Lazarus' life after Jesus' resurrection and ascension, various Christian traditions provide different accounts of what may have happened to him. These traditions are not part of Scripture, but they offer some possible insights. Bishop of Chisholm, Cyprus. According to Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic traditions, Lazarus fled Judea because of persecution by Jewish leaders and settled on the island of Cyprus, where he became the first bishop of Chisholm, modern-day Larnaca. Tradition holds that Lazarus lived for another 30 years after being raised from the dead, and he is venerated as a saint in both traditions. The church of St. Lazarus in Larnaca is said to be built over his second tomb, buried in France. Western tradition. Another tradition, prevalent in Western Christianity, suggests that Lazarus and his sisters Mary and Martha went to France to escape persecution. Some traditions say that Lazarus became a bishop in Marseille and preached the gospel there until his death. 4. His Death, Second Time. Though we don't have scriptural details about Lazarus' second death, it is widely believed that he eventually died a natural death. Lazarus' resurrection by Jesus was temporary, meaning he, like all humans, would eventually face physical death again. However, his miraculous resurrection served to confirm Jesus' power over death and pointed to the ultimate promise of eternal life through Christ. Lazarus played a significant role as a living testimony to Jesus' divine power and authority over death. Though the Bible does not give a detailed account of his later life, early Christian tradition suggests that he continued to serve the church, possibly as a bishop in Cyprus or France. His story is a reminder of the power of Christ and the hope of eternal life through faith in him. Did Lazarus preach? The Bible does not explicitly mention whether Lazarus preached after his resurrection by Jesus. However, given the context of his miraculous return to life and the subsequent impact of that event, it is reasonable to assume that Lazarus may have shared his experience and the message of Jesus with others. Here are some points to consider regarding Lazarus and the potential for his preaching. His role as a witness. Lazarus became a powerful witness to Jesus' authority and identity as the Son of God. After being raised from the dead, he would have had a compelling story to share, not only about his miraculous resurrection, but also about Jesus' compassion and power impact on others. The Gospel of John indicates that many Jews believed in Jesus because of Lazarus. His testimony would have played a significant role in drawing people to faith in Christ. John 12, 9-11 2. Presence During Key Events Lazarus was likely present during significant events in Jesus' ministry. Triumphal entry as part of the crowd that welcomed Jesus into Jerusalem. Lazarus' presence would have amplified the testimony of Jesus' miraculous deeds. Post-Resurrection Appearances If he lived in close proximity to Jesus and his disciples, it is plausible that Lazarus would have participated in conversations and gatherings where the message of Jesus was shared. 3. Early Christian Traditions While the Bible does not provide details about Lazarus' later life, early Christian traditions suggest that he might have been involved in spreading the Gospel. Bishop of Chisholm Some traditions claim that Lazarus became the first Bishop of Chisholm, modern-day Larnaca, in Cyprus. If this tradition is accurate, it implies that he would have had a role in preaching and teaching the Christian faith in that area. Spread of the Gospel Given the urgency of the early church to share the message of Jesus, it is likely that Lazarus, as someone who had experienced a profound miracle, would have contributed to the efforts of spreading the Gospel, whether through formal preaching or informal testimony. 4. Emphasis on Testimony The early church placed a high value on personal testimonies of faith. Witnessing Lazarus' story of being raised from the dead would have been a powerful testimony that could inspire faith in others, emphasizing the transformative power of Jesus. While there are no direct Biblical accounts of Lazarus' preaching, it is reasonable to conclude that he shared his story and the message of Jesus in some capacity. His resurrection from the dead would have made him a compelling witness to Christ's power, and early Christian traditions suggest that he may have had a role in teaching and spreading the Gospel, particularly if he became a bishop in Cyprus. Ultimately, Lazarus' life after his resurrection would have served as a testament to the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ. Did Lazarus die again? Yes, Lazarus did eventually die a second time after his resurrection by Jesus. 1. Resurrection and Mortality When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, it was a remarkable miracle that demonstrated his authority over death. John 11, 1-44 Lazarus had been dead for four days, and his resurrection signified not only Jesus' power, but also foreshadowed his own resurrection. However, Lazarus' return to life was not a permanent resurrection in the way that Jesus was. Lazarus was brought back to his earthly existence, meaning that he would eventually face physical death again, just like all humans. 2. Natural Death The Bible does not provide any details about the circumstances surrounding Lazarus' second death. It is widely believed that he lived a normal life after his resurrection, but like all human beings, he eventually died again, likely due to natural causes. This would be in line with the general human experience of mortality. 3. Theological Perspective The resurrection of Lazarus serves a theological purpose in the gospel narrative. It emphasizes Jesus' authority over life and death and illustrates the promise of eternal life through faith in him. In John 11, 25-26, Jesus said to Martha, I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die, and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. This teaching highlights that while Lazarus experienced a physical resurrection, the true promise of eternal life is found in believing in Jesus. 4. Traditions Regarding Lazarus' Death Various early Christian traditions have speculated about Lazarus' life after his resurrection. Some traditions suggest he became the first bishop of Chisholm, modern-day Larnaca, Cyprus, and preached the gospel there. According to these traditions, Lazarus lived for many years after his miraculous return to life. However, specific accounts of how and when he died the second time are not recorded in the Bible or other historical texts. While Lazarus was resurrected by Jesus and lived again on earth, he eventually faced physical death a second time. His story serves as a powerful testimony to Jesus' power over death, but it also reflects the reality that even those who are resurrected physically will eventually die again. The emphasis of the biblical narrative is on the hope of eternal life through faith in Christ rather than on the temporary nature of earthly existence. Did Lazarus Preach? The Bible does not explicitly mention whether Lazarus preached after his resurrection by Jesus. However, given the context of his miraculous return to life and the subsequent impact of that event, it is reasonable to assume that Lazarus may have shared his experience and the message of Jesus with others. Here are some points to consider regarding Lazarus and the potential for his preaching. 1. Lazarus became a powerful witness to Jesus' authority and identity as the Son of God. After being raised from the dead, he would have had a compelling story to share, not only about his miraculous resurrection, but also about Jesus' compassion and power impact on others. The Gospel of John indicates that many Jews believed in Jesus because of Lazarus. His testimony would have played a significant role in drawing people to faith in Christ. John 12, 9-11 2. Presence During Key Events Lazarus was likely present during significant events in Jesus' ministry. Triumphal Entry As part of the crowd that welcomed Jesus into Jerusalem, Lazarus' presence would have amplified the testimony of Jesus' miraculous deeds. Post-Resurrection Appearances If he lived in close proximity to Jesus and his disciples, it is plausible that Lazarus would have participated in conversations and gatherings where the message of Jesus was shared. 3. Early Christian Traditions While the Bible does not provide details about Lazarus' later life, early Christian traditions suggest that he might have been involved in spreading the Gospel. Bishop of Kishon Some traditions claim that Lazarus became the first bishop of Kishon, modern-day Larnaca, in Cyprus. If this tradition is accurate, it implies that he would have had a role in preaching and teaching the Christian faith in that area. Spread of the Gospel Given the urgency of the early church to share the message of Jesus, it is likely that Lazarus, as someone who had experienced a profound miracle, would have contributed to the efforts of spreading the Gospel, whether through formal preaching or informal testimony. 4. Emphasis on Testimony The early church placed a high value on personal testimonies of faith. Witnessing Lazarus' story of being raised from the dead would have been a powerful testimony that could inspire faith in others, emphasizing the transformative power of Jesus. While there are no direct biblical accounts of Lazarus' preaching, it is reasonable to conclude that he shared his story and the message of Jesus in some capacity. His resurrection from the dead would have made him a compelling witness to Christ's power, and early Christian traditions suggest that he may have had a role in teaching and spreading the Gospel, particularly if he became a bishop in Cyprus. Ultimately, Lazarus' life after his resurrection would have served as a testament to the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ. The miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead had a profound impact. Many of the Jews who had come to mourn believed in Jesus after witnessing this miracle. However, it also intensified the opposition against him, leading to a plot by the religious leaders to kill both Jesus and Lazarus. The story of Lazarus not only demonstrates Jesus' authority over death but also serves as a powerful reminder of his compassion and the hope of resurrection for all who believe in him. It emphasizes that Jesus is the source of life, both physical and spiritual, and reassures believers of the promise of eternal life through faith in him. May your spiritual journey be filled with God's grace and peace. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video to inspire others on their walk with the Lord.