By Shane Kastler
Perhaps the most amazing and controversial miracle Jesus performed was the resurrection of Lazarus. Jesus was a close friend of Lazarus’s family, including his sisters Mary and Martha. The Bible tells us that even after Jesus was notified that Lazarus was gravely ill; he purposely waited before going to see him. Jesus declared that the ultimate conclusion would not be death, but rather the glory of God. Jesus would be glorified in the resurrection of Lazarus.
But before Lazarus was ever brought to life physically, he had to be brought to life spiritually. Since all people are sinners by nature and spiritually dead; the miracle of spiritual regeneration much occur before anyone can truly know the Lord. Jesus said you must be “born again” (John 3;3) referring to this spiritual birth. Lazarus had to have experienced this; otherwise he would have never been a follower of Christ.
Secondly, Lazarus was raised from the dead physically. When Jesus declared, “Lazarus, come forth!” Lazarus came forth. Though having already been dead for four days; the divine power of Jesus was displayed. A power that even reigns over death itself. This physical resurrection is itself a picture of the aforementioned spiritual one. No one has life within themselves. Life comes at God’s command. And so it is with spiritual life. Jesus called Lazarus from the grave. Jesus does the same for all who are “born again” and know him.
The third and final resurrection of Lazarus has yet to occur. Martha told Jesus when he arrived, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.” (John 11:25) Martha was correct. Earlier in the gospel of John, Jesus said, “An hour is coming, in which all who are in the tombs will hear His voice, and will come forth; those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment.” (John 5:28-29)
So there are three resurrections at play in the life of Lazarus. How many will there be for you? You need God’s mercy to experience the spiritual resurrection and be “born again.” Cry out to the Lord today, while he may be found. The second resurrection Lazarus experienced was a rarity. Don’t count on that one happening to you. The third one is sure to occur. You will either come of the grave to a resurrection of life or judgment and condemnation. Trust in Christ and fear not the grave. He has conquered death and reigns over it eternally.
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