The story of Lazarus is an emotional roller coaster that fills us with wonder, our minds unable to fully understand it (John 11:1-57). Why did Jesus wait for two days before going to Lazarus? Why are Martha and Mary full of faith and doubt at differing times?

Despite these questions, our intrigue reflects a key theme: God’s purposes prevailing over human wisdom. We think Jesus should rush straight to Lazarus, who is obviously in agony (we are told three times in three verses that he is sick vv.1-3). However, Jesus says that Lazarus’ sickness ‘will not end in death’ but has happened for the glory of God (v.4). 

Raising to life

We have witnessed other raising miracles in the bible; yet this one is distinct. According to Pawson, the raising of Jairus’ daughter and the widow’s son was resuscitation; Lazarus was a man ‘whose body would have already started to rot.’ Martha emphasizes this when she protests, ‘Lord, he has been dead for four days, the smell will be terrible.’ (v.39) The number of days is interesting as the number four often represents the physical side of God's creation.

This resurrection story colours our lives with hope – no matter how much we might suffer physically on earth, if we believe, we will be raised again with perfect bodies (cf 1 Cor 15:52). Martha's incredible statement of faith is an inspiration to us all when God works in a way we don’t understand: 

‘Lord, if you had been here, he would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask.' (v.32)

Triumph over death


This miracle also foreshadows Jesus' own resurrection and shows His power to triumph over death. If we look at the whole of chapter eleven, we see that there is a chiastic framework with the theme of eternal life at its core (Lee). Lazarus’ imminent death and Jesus’ threatened death form parameters around the narrative. In Hebrew poetry, as we see in the psalms, the central verse was often considered the most important (eg Ps 54:4). So here the climax of the story is Jesus showing that He really is ‘the resurrection and the life’ (John 11:25). The three imperatives ‘come out,’ ‘unbind him’ and ‘let him go!’ further emphasize his authority over death (v.43-44, Koester). 

Weighing up the cost

We might wonder what it was like for Jesus to purposely delay going. 'For your sake I’m glad I wasn't there,’ He says, ‘it will help you to believe.' (v.15) It must have pained Jesus to stay whilst his friend was suffering – but He knew that the receiving of eternal life for those who would consequently believe far outweighed Lazarus’ temporary suffering. In the past when I was hurting after a relationship broke up, I clung to the fact that God's ways are 'higher' than our ways (Is 55:9). Even when we don't understand, He promises that His purposes will prevail (Ps 33:11). And His purposes are life-giving and good.

Are you prepared to 'go against the flow' like Jesus did, in order to glorify God?

Is there a situation you need to bring to the Lord, asking Him to re-assure you that His plans will prevail?

Resources: Unlocking The Bible by David Pawson; The Word of Life Craig Koester; Flesh and Glory D.A.Lee