Scripture: John 11:43–44
Speaker: Pastor
Date: August 16, 2026
The Call of Lazarus
The raising of Lazarus is one of the most familiar miracles in Jesus’ ministry. It reveals Jesus as the resurrection and the life—the One who has power over sin, death, and the grave. But this message also considers Lazarus as a picture of what happens when Christ calls sinners from spiritual death into new life.
Just as Lazarus was physically dead and unable to make himself alive, Scripture describes those apart from Christ as spiritually dead. Salvation therefore begins not with our ability to rescue ourselves, but with the life-giving call of Christ.
The message traces five observations from Lazarus’ resurrection: Christ’s call is directed to one who is dead, it is selective, it originates in God’s eternal purpose, it is effectual, and ultimately it is accomplished for the glory of God.
When Jesus commands, “Lazarus, come forth,” the man who was dead comes out alive. In the same way, salvation is the work of God as His Word and Spirit bring those who were spiritually dead into the newness of life found in Christ.
The result is not glory for us, but glory to God. The salvation Christ gives is entirely His work and leads His people to praise the Savior who has called them out of death and into everlasting life.
Read John 11:43–44 →
Read John 11:43–44 on ESV.org
