Introduction:
The Raising of Lazarus is a significant event recorded in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of John, chapter 11. This miracle is one of the most profound demonstrations of Jesus Christ's divine authority over life and death, serving as a pivotal moment in His earthly ministry. It not only foreshadows Jesus' own resurrection but also reinforces His identity as the Son of God and the promised Messiah.

Biblical Account:
The account begins with Jesus receiving news that Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha, is gravely ill. Despite His love for the family, Jesus intentionally delays His visit, stating, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it" (John 11:4). This delay results in Lazarus' death, setting the stage for a greater revelation of Jesus' power.

Upon His arrival in Bethany, Jesus is met by Martha, who expresses her faith in Him, saying, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give You whatever You ask of Him" (John 11:21-22). Jesus assures her, "Your brother will rise again" (John 11:23), and declares, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies" (John 11:25).

Mary, Lazarus' other sister, also approaches Jesus, and deeply moved by the sorrow of the sisters and the mourners, Jesus weeps. This moment of compassion is captured in the shortest verse of the Bible, "Jesus wept" (John 11:35), highlighting His empathy and humanity.

The Miracle:
Jesus proceeds to the tomb, where He commands the stone to be removed. Despite Martha's concern about the stench of death, Jesus reminds her, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" (John 11:40). After praying to the Father, Jesus calls out in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" (John 11:43). Miraculously, Lazarus emerges from the tomb, still bound in grave clothes, alive and restored.

Theological Significance:
The raising of Lazarus serves multiple theological purposes. It is a testament to Jesus' divine authority and His power over death, affirming His claim to be "the resurrection and the life." This miracle also prefigures Jesus' own resurrection, offering a glimpse of the hope and eternal life promised to all who believe in Him.

Furthermore, this event intensifies the opposition from the religious leaders, who perceive Jesus as a threat to their authority. The miracle leads to a plot to kill Jesus, as recorded in John 11:53, "So from that day on they plotted to kill Him" .

Cultural and Historical Context:
In the Jewish culture of the time, the belief was that the soul lingered near the body for three days after death. By raising Lazarus on the fourth day, Jesus demonstrates His power over death beyond any cultural or superstitious beliefs, leaving no doubt about the miraculous nature of the event.

Impact on Early Christianity:
The raising of Lazarus became a cornerstone of early Christian preaching, illustrating the power and compassion of Christ. It reinforced the belief in the resurrection of the dead and the promise of eternal life, central tenets of Christian doctrine. The event also contributed to the growing tension between Jesus and the Jewish authorities, ultimately leading to His crucifixion and resurrection, which are foundational to the Christian faith.