Lazarus of Bethany
The Friend Jesus Raised from the Dead
Name Information
- Meaning: "God has helped" (Hebrew: Elʿāzār)
- Language of Origin: Hebrew
- Gender Usage: Masculine
Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha, was loved by Jesus. His death and resurrection became one of the greatest miracles of Jesus’ ministry — a powerful sign pointing to Jesus as the Resurrection and the Life. Though Lazarus says no words in Scripture, his life became a testimony so strong that religious leaders plotted to kill him. His story speaks to the hope, power, and promise of new life in Christ.
⏰ 1st century AD
Roles
- Brother
- Friend of Jesus
- Resurrected Witness
Relationships
- Sister: Mary and Martha
- Friend: Jesus
Story
Became ill and died in Bethany.
Jesus delayed coming, so that God's glory would be revealed.
Jesus wept at his tomb — showing divine compassion.
Jesus called him by name and raised him from the dead publicly.
Later hosted Jesus and drew large crowds because of his testimony.
Spiritual Significance
- Called a beloved friend of Jesus (John 11:3).
- Died and was buried for four days before Jesus raised him.
- His resurrection caused many to believe in Jesus.
- His life became such a powerful witness that the chief priests sought to kill him.
Christ Connection
Lazarus's resurrection pointed to Jesus' power over death and foreshadowed His own resurrection.
His story affirms Jesus’ identity as 'the Resurrection and the Life.'
He is a living picture of salvation — once dead, now alive by the call of Christ.
What We Can Learn
- Jesus has power over death — both physically and spiritually.
- Our lives can be testimonies even if we never speak a word.
- Delays in God's plan are often setups for His greater glory.
- Christ calls us by name from death to life.
Memory Verses
Lazarus, come out!
— John 11:43
Key Passages
- John 11:1–44
- John 12:1–11
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