Come Forth!

Main Text: John 11:1–44

Sermon Title: “Come Forth!”

Key Verse: John 11:25 – “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.’”

I. God’s Delay Is Not God’s Denial

(John 11:1–6)

Jesus loved Lazarus, Mary, and Martha.

When He heard Lazarus was sick, He stayed two more days.

God’s timing may not match ours—but it’s always perfect.

Cross-Reference: Isaiah 55:8–9 – “For My thoughts are not your thoughts…”

Application: Just because God doesn’t move when we want doesn’t mean He’s not working.

II. Faith in the Middle of Grief

(John 11:17–27)

Martha believed in the resurrection someday, but Jesus showed her He was the resurrection right now.

Jesus didn’t just offer comfort; He offered hope.

Cross-Reference: Hebrews 11:1 – “Faith is the substance of things hoped for…”

Application: When life looks hopeless, Jesus is still the answer.

III. Jesus Weeps With Us

(John 11:33–35)

Jesus knew He would raise Lazarus, but still wept.

He is moved by our pain—even when He plans to bring healing.

Cross-Reference: Hebrews 4:15 – “We do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize…”

Application: Jesus understands your sorrow—and He walks with you through it.

IV. The Power of the Voice of Christ

(John 11:38–44)

Jesus cried out, “Lazarus, come forth!”

The same voice that created the universe now calls a dead man to life.

Cross-Reference: John 5:25 – “The dead will hear the voice of the Son of God…”

Application: Nothing is too dead for Jesus to revive—not a person, a marriage, or a calling.

V. Unbind Him and Let Him Go

(John 11:44)

Lazarus came out alive but still wrapped in grave clothes.

Jesus brings us from death to life—and calls others to help remove what holds us back.

Application: We need to help one another walk in new life, free from our past.

Conclusion:

Jesus is still the resurrection and the life. He has power over death, over delay, and over doubt. Whatever feels dead in your life—He can call it back to life.