The event of Lazarus' sickness is a significant narrative found in the Gospel of John, specifically in John 11:1-44. This account is pivotal in the ministry of Jesus Christ, showcasing His divine authority over life and death and serving as a precursor to His own resurrection.

Context and Setting

Lazarus, along with his sisters Mary and Martha, resided in the village of Bethany, which was located near Jerusalem. The family was known to be close friends of Jesus, as indicated by the deep emotional responses and interactions throughout the narrative. The account begins with the news of Lazarus' illness reaching Jesus, who was at that time beyond the Jordan River, where John had been baptizing earlier (John 10:40).

The Message to Jesus

Upon hearing of Lazarus' sickness, Jesus makes a profound statement: "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it" (John 11:4). This declaration sets the stage for the unfolding events, emphasizing that the situation will serve a greater divine purpose.

Jesus' Delayed Response

Despite the urgency of the message, Jesus chooses to remain where He is for two more days. This delay is intentional and serves to highlight the miraculous nature of what is to come. Jesus later tells His disciples, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up" (John 11:11). The disciples misunderstand, thinking Jesus refers to natural sleep, prompting Him to clarify, "Lazarus is dead, and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe" (John 11:14-15).

Arrival in Bethany

Upon His arrival in Bethany, Jesus is met by Martha, who expresses her faith in His power, 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), leading to a theological discussion about the resurrection. Jesus declares, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies" (John 11:25).

Mary's Grief and Jesus' Compassion

Mary, upon meeting Jesus, echoes her sister's sentiment about His ability to prevent Lazarus' death. Jesus is deeply moved by the mourning of Mary and the Jews who accompanied her. The shortest verse in the Bible, "Jesus wept" (John 11:35), captures His compassion and empathy for human suffering.

The Miracle at the Tomb

Jesus approaches the tomb, instructing the stone to be removed despite Martha's concern about the odor of decay. He prays to the Father, expressing gratitude for being heard, and then 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).

Significance

The raising of Lazarus is a testament to Jesus' divine power and foreshadows His own resurrection. It serves as a catalyst for belief among many witnesses and also intensifies the opposition from the religious leaders, ultimately leading to the plot to arrest and crucify Jesus. This event underscores the central Christian tenet of Jesus as the source of eternal life and the conqueror of death.