Introduction:
The event of Lazarus' death and resurrection is a significant miracle performed by Jesus Christ, recorded in the Gospel of John, chapter 11. This event not only demonstrates Jesus' power over life and death but also serves as a profound revelation of His identity as the Son of God and the promised Messiah. The narrative is rich with theological implications, emphasizing themes of faith, divine timing, and the glory of God.

Context and Setting:
Lazarus, along with his sisters Mary and Martha, resided in Bethany, a village near Jerusalem. The family was known to be close friends of Jesus, as indicated by the Gospel's account of Jesus' love for them (John 11:5). The event occurs during Jesus' ministry, shortly before His own crucifixion, and serves as a pivotal moment leading up to the Passion Week.

The Illness and Death of Lazarus:
The account begins with Lazarus falling gravely ill. His sisters send word to Jesus, saying, "Lord, the one You love is sick" (John 11:3). Despite the urgency, Jesus responds with a message of hope, 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). Jesus deliberately delays His visit for two days, emphasizing His divine purpose and timing.

Jesus' Arrival in Bethany:
Upon His arrival, Jesus finds that Lazarus has already been in the tomb for four days (John 11:17). Martha meets Him first, expressing her faith mingled with sorrow: "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died" (John 11:21). Jesus reassures her with the profound declaration, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies" (John 11:25). This statement underscores Jesus' authority over death and His role as the source of eternal life.

The Compassion of Jesus:
Mary, accompanied by mourners, also approaches Jesus, echoing Martha's sentiment. Deeply moved by their grief, Jesus weeps, demonstrating His compassion and empathy (John 11:33-35). This moment highlights the humanity of Jesus, who shares in the sorrows of those He loves.

The Miracle of Resurrection:
Jesus proceeds to the tomb, instructing the stone to be removed. Despite Martha's concern about the odor, Jesus reminds her of the promise of God's glory (John 11:39-40). After a prayer of thanksgiving to the Father, Jesus commands with authority, "Lazarus, come out!" (John 11:43). Lazarus emerges from the tomb, still bound in grave clothes, and Jesus instructs those present to "Unbind him and let him go" (John 11:44).

Reactions and Implications:
The resurrection of Lazarus leads many witnesses to believe in Jesus, affirming His divine power and messianic identity (John 11:45). However, it also intensifies the hostility of the religious leaders, who perceive Jesus as a threat to their authority and plot to kill Him (John 11:53). This miracle, therefore, serves as a catalyst for the unfolding events of Jesus' own death and resurrection.

Theological Significance:
The event of Lazarus' resurrection is a powerful testament to Jesus' claim as the "resurrection and the life" (John 11:25). It prefigures His own resurrection and offers believers a foretaste of the hope of eternal life. The narrative emphasizes the necessity of faith in Jesus and the assurance of His victory over death, providing comfort and hope to Christians throughout the ages.