John 11:38–44 – The Raising of Lazarus
Quick Summary
In John 11:38–44, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead, showing his authority over the grave. This miracle reveals God’s glory, strengthens faith, and foreshadows Jesus’ own resurrection.
Introduction
This is the climax of the Lazarus story, often called the raising of Lazarus. What began with sickness and delay now erupts in resurrection and life. The scene unfolds like a drama: the tomb sealed by a stone, mourners grieving, Martha objecting because of the stench of death, and then Jesus calling Lazarus by name. At the heart of it all is Jesus, who enters the tomb of sorrow and turns it into a place of hope.
The story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead is the seventh and final “sign” in John’s Gospel before the cross. Each sign points to who Jesus is, but this one is decisive: he is the resurrection and the life, the Lord of life who speaks into death itself. This miracle is both a gift for Lazarus’ family and a revelation for all who believe. It also foreshadows Jesus’ own resurrection, showing us that no grave can silence his voice.
Outline of John 11:38–44
John 11:38–40 | Jesus Approaches the Tomb and Martha Objects
John 11:41–42 | Jesus Prays to the Father
John 11:43–44 | Jesus Raises Lazarus from the Dead
John 11:38–40 | Jesus Approaches the Tomb and Martha Objects
Jesus, deeply moved, approaches the tomb. A stone seals it shut, echoing the garden tomb where he will be laid after the cross (John 19:41). This connection shows that Lazarus’ raising is a signpost pointing forward to Easter.
When Jesus commands the stone to be taken away, Martha objects: Lazarus has been dead for four days and decay has begun. For her, the situation is beyond hope. Yet Jesus reminds her, “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?” (John 11:40). In this moment, faith is invited to step past despair. The raising of Lazarus shows us that God’s power is not limited by our sense of “too late.”
John 11:41–42 | Jesus Prays to the Father
Before calling Lazarus out, Jesus prays aloud. He thanks the Father for hearing him and makes clear that this prayer is for the sake of the crowd, so that they may believe. This moment reveals the close relationship between Jesus and the Father—everything he does flows from that unity.
The prayer also emphasizes that miracles are never just displays of power; they are signs pointing to belief. The resurrection of Lazarus is not simply about one man returning to life but about God’s glory being revealed so that many might trust in Jesus.
John 11:43–44 | Jesus Raises Lazarus from the Dead
Then comes the command: “Lazarus, come out!” With a loud voice, Jesus calls life out of death. Lazarus emerges, still bound in grave clothes, a living testimony to the power of Christ.
The detail of Lazarus being unbound by others is significant. Resurrection here is communal: Jesus calls, Lazarus responds, and the community helps him live free. This reflects the ongoing life of the church—we are called out of sin and death by Christ, but we need others to help us walk in that freedom.
It is important to note the difference between Lazarus’ resurrection and Jesus’ own. Lazarus is restored to mortal life and will eventually die again. Jesus will rise to immortal life, never to die. The raising of Lazarus is a sign pointing to something greater: the ultimate victory over death in Christ’s resurrection.
Why Did Jesus Raise Lazarus from the Dead?
Jesus raised Lazarus to reveal God’s glory, strengthen the faith of his followers, and point forward to his own resurrection. The miracle also confirmed his identity as the resurrection and the life. It was not only an act of compassion for a grieving family but also a decisive sign that life is found in him alone.
Lessons from Jesus Raising Lazarus
Jesus’ Authority over Death – Death obeys his voice; he is Lord of life.
Faith and Glory – Belief opens the door to witness God’s glory.
Communal Resurrection – Others are called to unbind Lazarus, showing the role of community in helping people live into freedom.
Foreshadowing Easter – Lazarus’ resurrection points to the greater hope of Jesus’ victory over death.
Hope for Today – No situation is beyond Jesus’ reach; he calls us out of our own places of despair.
John 11:38–44 Meaning for Today
The story of Lazarus speaks to every place of hopelessness we face. Just as Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, he still brings life into situations that seem sealed by the stone of despair. For those weighed down by grief, this passage proclaims that death does not have the last word.
It also shows that resurrection life is not lived in isolation. Lazarus emerges still bound, needing others to help set him free. The Christian community is called to that work: helping one another shed the grave clothes of sin, fear, and hopelessness. Resurrection is both personal and communal.
Finally, the raising of Lazarus assures us that Jesus’ words are true. He not only declares, “I am the resurrection and the life”—he proves it. In 1 John, believers are promised eternal life in Christ, and in Revelation, the risen Lord declares, “I am the living one; I was dead, and see, I am alive forever and ever” (Revelation 1:18). The raising of Lazarus is a glimpse of that ultimate hope.
FAQ
Why did Jesus raise Lazarus from the dead?
To reveal God’s glory, strengthen faith, and foreshadow his own resurrection. It was a sign that pointed to his identity as the resurrection and the life.
How many Lazarus figures are in the Bible?
There are two: Lazarus of Bethany, whom Jesus raised from the dead (John 11), and the Lazarus from Jesus’ parable of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16). They are not the same person.
How long was Lazarus dead before Jesus raised him?
Lazarus had been dead four days when Jesus arrived, underscoring that his resurrection was a true miracle beyond natural explanation.
Was Lazarus resurrected or resuscitated?
Lazarus was restored to mortal life and would die again. Jesus’ resurrection, by contrast, was to eternal life, never to die. Lazarus’ raising is a sign pointing forward to Jesus’ greater victory.
Works Consulted
Raymond E. Brown, The Gospel According to John I–XII (Anchor Yale Bible).
D.A. Carson, The Gospel According to John (Pillar New Testament Commentary).
Gail R. O’Day, John (New Interpreter’s Bible).
Craig S. Keener, The Gospel of John: A Commentary.
Andreas J. Köstenberger, John (Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament).
