Raising Lazarus: Hope in the Face of Death

Jesus' raising of Lazarus from the dead is the precipitating event that leads to the Passion Week—Jesus' own crucifixion, death, and resurrection. For John, this is the pivotal moment when Jesus—for the last time—will make his way toward Jerusalem. But John includes this story as a wonderful foreshadowing of both the resurrection of Jesus, and the true resurrection of all those who believe in him. Our only hope in death is new life in Jesus.

1. Our Problem: Death and the Death of Lazarus (11:1-16)

2. Our Hope: Resurrection to New Life (11:17-27)

3. Our Comfort: Jesus Compassion (11:28-37)

4. Our Confidence: Jesus Power (11:38-44)

Our Resurrection to New Life
 Misconceptions about "life after death" and our final destiny?
 Death and resurrection
o Pagan views
o Jewish views
 Early Christian beliefs about death and resurrection