John 11:43

After Jesus had said this, He called out in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!"

Study Bible

After Jesus had said this
This phrase sets the stage for the miraculous event that is about to unfold. The context here is crucial; Jesus has just prayed to the Father, expressing gratitude for being heard. This demonstrates His intimate relationship with God and His confidence in the divine plan. The Greek word for "said" (εἶπεν, eipen) implies a declaration with authority. Jesus' words are not mere suggestions but carry the weight of divine command, underscoring His role as the Son of God.

He called out
The Greek verb used here is "φωνέω" (phoneo), which means to call or to summon. This is not a casual call but a powerful, authoritative command. In the cultural and historical context, a loud call was often used to gather attention or to make an important announcement. Jesus' call to Lazarus is a public demonstration of His authority over life and death, intended to reveal His divine power to the onlookers.

in a loud voice
The phrase "loud voice" (μεγάλῃ φωνῇ, megale phone) emphasizes the intensity and authority of Jesus' command. This is reminiscent of the voice of God in the Old Testament, which often came with power and authority. The loudness signifies the importance of the moment and ensures that all present would witness the miracle, leaving no doubt about the source of Lazarus's resurrection.

Lazarus
The name Lazarus is derived from the Hebrew name Eleazar, meaning "God has helped." This is profoundly fitting, as Lazarus's resurrection is a direct act of divine intervention. The use of his name personalizes the miracle, showing Jesus' deep love and compassion for His friend. It also serves as a reminder that God knows each of us by name and is intimately involved in our lives.

come out
The command "come out" (δεῦρο ἔξω, deuro exo) is both simple and profound. It is a direct order that defies the natural order of death. Theologically, this command signifies Jesus' power over death, prefiguring His own resurrection. In a broader scriptural context, it symbolizes the call to all believers to come out of spiritual death into the life offered through Christ. This moment is a powerful testament to the hope and new life that Jesus offers to all who believe in Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is the Son of God who performs the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead, demonstrating His divine authority over life and death.

2. Lazarus
A friend of Jesus who had died and was buried for four days. His resurrection is a pivotal miracle that showcases Jesus' power and foreshadows His own resurrection.

3. Bethany
The village where Lazarus, Mary, and Martha lived. It is located near Jerusalem and serves as the setting for this miraculous event.

4. Mary and Martha
Sisters of Lazarus who are mourning his death. They are significant figures in the account, representing faith and the human experience of grief.

5. The Tomb
The place where Lazarus was laid to rest. It symbolizes death and the finality of human life, which Jesus overcomes through His command.

Teaching Points

The Power of Jesus' Word
Jesus' command, "Lazarus, come out!" illustrates the power and authority of His word. As believers, we are reminded of the transformative power of Scripture in our lives.

Faith in the Face of Death
The raising of Lazarus challenges us to trust in Jesus' power over death and to have faith in His promises of eternal life.

Jesus' Compassion and Empathy
Jesus' actions demonstrate His deep compassion for those who mourn. We are called to emulate His empathy and support others in their times of grief.

The Foreshadowing of Resurrection
This miracle foreshadows Jesus' own resurrection and the hope of resurrection for all believers. It encourages us to live with the hope of eternal life.

The Call to New Life
Just as Lazarus was called out of the tomb, we are called to step out of our spiritual deadness into the new life that Jesus offers.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' command to Lazarus demonstrate His authority over life and death, and how can this understanding impact our daily faith?

2. In what ways does the account of Lazarus' resurrection encourage us to trust in Jesus during times of personal loss or grief?

3. How can we apply the compassion and empathy Jesus showed in this passage to our interactions with others who are suffering?

4. What are some areas in your life where you feel spiritually "dead," and how can Jesus' call to Lazarus inspire you to seek renewal?

5. How does the miracle of Lazarus' resurrection connect to the broader biblical theme of resurrection, and what hope does it offer for our future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 5:28-29
Jesus speaks about the resurrection of the dead, indicating His authority to give life, which is demonstrated in the raising of Lazarus.

1 Corinthians 15:20-22
Paul discusses the resurrection of Christ as the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep, connecting to the theme of resurrection and eternal life.

Ezekiel 37:4-5
The vision of the dry bones coming to life parallels the power of God's word to bring life, similar to Jesus' command to Lazarus.