Celebrate the Recovery of Lazarus
God, Man and Community
John 11
Five Commands and a Miracle
I. The First Command
Let’s go to Judea again. (v.7)
The Response: Committing Together
Then Thomas, who is called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with Him.” (v.16)
II. The Second Command
“Tell me where he is.”
And He said, “Where have you laid him?” (v.34)
The Response: Answering Together
They said to Him, “Lord, come and see.” (v.34)
III. The Third Command
Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” (v.39)
The Response: Working Together
Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead man was lying. (v.41)
IV. The Fourth Command
Lazarus, come forth! (v.43)
The Response: Watching Together
“The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face.” (v.44)
The Fifth Command
“Loose him and let him go.” (v.44)
The Response: Experiencing Together
Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and 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 going over to Jesus and putting their faith in him. (John 12:9-11)
The Benefits that Flow to Community
ONE command was given to Lazarus
FOUR commands were given to the community.
# 1 The believer’s faith is elevated.
Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. (John 12:9)
# 2 The skeptics’ doubt is answered.
But Lord, said Martha…he has been dead four days.” (v.39)
#3 The slowness of the flesh is revealed.
The Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God? (v.40)
#4 The believing community is inspired.
“Take away the stone….loose him and let him go….fill the pots with water…cast your nets on the other side….bring him to me…” (Various texts)
#5 Evangelism is made strong.
“…on account of him (Lazarus) many of the Jews were going over to Jesus.” (John 12:11)
