The Plot to Kill Lazarus is a significant event recorded in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of John. This event occurs shortly after the miraculous resurrection of Lazarus by Jesus Christ, which is one of the most profound miracles documented in the Gospels. The account of Lazarus being raised from the dead is found in John 11:1-44, and the subsequent plot against him is detailed in John 12:9-11.

Context and Background

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, and their home served as a place of refuge and fellowship for Him. The resurrection of Lazarus, who had been dead for four days, was a pivotal miracle that demonstrated Jesus' authority over life and death, affirming His claim to be the "resurrection and the life" (John 11:25).

The Reaction of the Jewish Leaders

The miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead had a profound impact on the people who witnessed it and those who heard about it. Many Jews believed in Jesus as a result of this miracle (John 11:45). However, it also intensified the hostility of the Jewish religious leaders towards Jesus. The chief priests and Pharisees convened a council to discuss the growing influence of Jesus, fearing that His popularity might lead to Roman intervention and the loss of their power and position (John 11:47-48).

The Plot Against Lazarus

The Gospel of John records that the chief priests not only plotted to kill Jesus but also sought to kill Lazarus. John 12:9-11 states: "Meanwhile, a large crowd of Jews learned that Jesus was there. And they came, not only because of Him, but also to see Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, for on account of him many of the Jews were deserting them and believing in Jesus."

The decision to kill Lazarus highlights the extent of the religious leaders' desperation to maintain their authority and suppress the burgeoning belief in Jesus as the Messiah. Lazarus had become a living testimony to the power and divinity of Christ, and his continued presence was a threat to their influence.

Theological Implications

The plot to kill Lazarus underscores the spiritual blindness and hardness of heart of the religious leaders. Despite witnessing undeniable evidence of Jesus' divine power, they chose to reject Him and conspire against both Him and Lazarus. This event illustrates the conflict between the kingdom of God and the worldly powers that resist it.

Furthermore, the plot against Lazarus serves as a reminder of the cost of discipleship. Lazarus, by virtue of being a recipient of Jesus' miraculous power, became a target of persecution. This reflects the broader New Testament theme that those who follow Christ may face opposition and suffering for their faith.

Conclusion

The Plot to Kill Lazarus is a testament to the transformative power of Jesus' miracles and the lengths to which His opponents would go to suppress the truth. It serves as a powerful narrative of faith, opposition, and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes through Jesus Christ.