John (19)

Introduction: This morning we are continuing in the gospel of John where we read the account of Jesus raises His friend Lazarus from the dead. Now in order to get familiar with the true event we must read it all together. So open our Bible to John 11 and follow along with me as I read…

General point: Jesus is the Son of God who gives life. He is the resurrection and life. For the glory of God He raises Lazarus from the dead. Why? So that we might hear this eye witness account and believe Him and have the life He gives.

Transition: How does this truth emerge from this text?

(Briefly point to and explain the passages where Jesus makes these two claims) First, we see this truth through Jesus’ claims…

Jesus’ claims

Son of God: 11:4

Resurrection and life: 11:25-26

(Briefly point to and explain the passages where Jesus reveals His work/signs.)

Transition: I suppose anyone might make these claims, so how do we know that Jesus is the real deal?

Jesus’ work

His humanity: 11:33-35 &38

Consider what Jesus was feeling as he observed the death of His friend. Certainly the sheer emotion of separation and seeing the grief of Mary and Martha. However, Jesus was also aware of why death was such a tragic end of life. (The Fall) Also, he knew He too was about the experience this horrific reality in the place of sinners, where He would bear the wrath of God for our sin.

His deity : 11:43-44 (reminiscent of creation.)

Point: Jesus is fully human and fully God. He did not stop being God when He took on flesh and dwelt among us, and He didn’t stop being a real human being while during His time on earth. Why is this such an important Biblical teaching? Because if he wasn't human He could not die, and if He was not God His death would not have mattered.

Transition: The whole point of this miracle is to reveal Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God. He not only talks the talk but also walks the walk. He can back u p His claims by His power over death. However, this specific miracle is directing us to Jesus’ own death and resurrection. Not long from this moment Jesus would Himself endure the wrath of the cross, be buried for three days, and rise again. Jesus is the Son of God who has power over sin and death. This reality make all the difference.

Three applications from examples in this passage… Because of the resurrection...

Disciples: Fear & Faith 11:8-16

Mary & Martha: Expectations & Faith 11:21& 32

Do you believe? (11:26b)

Lazarus: Glory of God & New Life (11:44)

The man who had died, came out! This is a picture of Spiritual birth. Each one of us, without Christ , are dead in our trespasses and sin. We cannot make ourselves right with God.

Closing: This whole account is directing us to Jesus’ own death and resurrection. We see form Caiaphas’ words.. that “one man should die...” All the way back in chapter 5:25-29 Jesus claim is recorded where He says… He authenticates His claim and reveals His true identity by doing only what God can do. Giving life. All of this is escalating the hostility against him from those who do not believe. But for those who to receive Him, those who believe on His name, to them He gives the right to become children of God. Are you trusting in Christ alone for life today?