Summary:
Mary goes to Jesus, weeping over Lazarus’ death. Moved by her sorrow, Jesus weeps as well. Some people question why He didn’t prevent Lazarus from dying. Jesus arrives at the tomb and orders the stone to be removed despite Martha’s concerns about the smell. He prays to the Father and then calls Lazarus out of the tomb. Lazarus comes out, still wrapped in burial cloths, and Jesus commands them to unbind him. Many believe in Jesus, but some report the event to the Pharisees.
Teaching:
“Therefore, many of the Jews who came to Mary, and saw what He had done, believed in Him.”
This is the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, but the passage does not focus on what Jesus did for Lazarus; rather, it highlights what He did for Mary.
This story continues in John 12, where Mary anoints Jesus with perfume, and that event leads to Jesus' journey to the cross. The story of Lazarus is not just about him coming back to life or a problem being solved—it is a crucial part of the path leading to Jesus' crucifixion.
The challenges we face in life are not just problems that need immediate resolution. They can be turning points in our journey of faith and salvation. Instead of seeing our struggles as issues that must be fixed right now, we should recognize that they can prepare us for Jesus' return and lead us to be ready to receive Him.
Excerpt from the sermon by Deacon 안규원, Apr 2, 2025.
John 10:31-46
(D-147)