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 reveals Jesus' compassion and power but also foreshadows His own resurrection.

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 deliberately 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 His ability to heal, saying, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died" (John 11:21). Jesus assures her, "Your brother will rise again" (John 11:23), leading to a profound declaration of His identity: "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 meets Jesus with deep sorrow, and Jesus is moved by the grief of those around Him. The shortest verse in the Bible, "Jesus wept" (John 11:35), highlights His empathy and humanity.

The Miracle:
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).

Theological Significance:
The raising of Lazarus is a testament to Jesus' divine nature and His mastery over death. It serves as a powerful sign that prefigures His own resurrection and offers a glimpse into the promise of eternal life for believers. This miracle also intensifies the opposition from the religious leaders, who see Jesus as a threat to their authority, ultimately leading to the plot to crucify Him.

Impact on Believers:
For Christians, the raising of Lazarus is a source of hope and assurance in the promise of resurrection and eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. It underscores the belief that Jesus is the source of life and that death is not the final word for those who trust in Him.

Cultural and Historical Context:
The event takes place in Bethany, a village near Jerusalem, during a time when Jewish burial customs involved placing the deceased in a tomb and sealing it with a stone. The miracle occurs shortly before the Passover, a time when many Jews would be traveling to Jerusalem, thus amplifying the impact and spread of the news about Jesus' miraculous act.

Conclusion:
The raising of Lazarus remains a cornerstone of Christian faith, illustrating the power and compassion of Jesus Christ. It challenges believers to trust in His promises and to live in the hope of resurrection and eternal life.