Lazarus
Sermon Response
Lazarus
The Text:
John 11:1-16
This is part 1 of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. Jesus has been hiding out in Perea for the last few months. While there he gets word from Mary and Martha that his friend Lazarus is very sick and will die if he does not come quickly. Jesus and his disciples are two days away from Bethany where Lazarus lives. The disciples know that returning to Judea will mean almost certain death for them and their leader, Jesus. But Jesus reminds them that as long as it is “day” there is work to be done and the Father will protect them until the time for work is over. The text ends with Thomas making a radical declaration of allegiance to Jesus.
Discuss:
What do we know about Mary, Martha, and their brother Lazarus?
Why do the disciples have so much trouble understanding Jesus’ words in the text? What does the metaphor of day and night represent?
Why does Jesus wait 2 days before starting his journey to Bethany?
What do you think fueled Thomas’ declaration.
Respond:
Mary and Martha were desperate disciples. Their hope and need drove their faith in Jesus. Describe a time in your life when you were like Mary and Martha.
The disciples were called to follow Jesus every day, as long as there was work to be done. Describe a time in your life where following Jesus simply meant waking up every day and doing life for his glory.
Thomas passionately declared his willingness to die for Jesus. He was fully surrendered. Describe a time in your life when following Jesus became extreme and the cost of doing so could have been your whole life.
Prayer
Jesus, because of who you are and what you have done, let us follow you every day of our life. May we trust you when we are in need, follow you as long as there is breath in our lungs and always be willing to give all we have for the sake of your name.