Introduction: Why the Friendship of Jesus and Lazarus Matters
For a new follower of Christ, one of the most compelling and personal stories in the Bible is the friendship between Jesus and Lazarus. Found primarily in John 11 and John 12, this relationship is rich with emotion, deep love, and spiritual truth. It demonstrates not only Jesus' divine power over death but also His deeply human ability to love, grieve, and connect. In this article, we will explore the friendship between Jesus and Lazarus through the lens of Scripture, consider its implications for believers today, and see how it reveals the compassionate and powerful heart of Christ.
Who Was Lazarus?
Lazarus was a man from the village of Bethany, located just two miles from Jerusalem. He lived with his two sisters, Mary and Martha. The family was well known to Jesus and played a significant role in His earthly ministry. Lazarus is best remembered for being the man whom Jesus raised from the dead, a miracle that foreshadowed Christ's own resurrection and helped solidify His identity as the Son of God.
Bethany: A Place of Peace and Friendship
Bethany was a frequent stop for Jesus during His ministry. Unlike many of the towns and villages where Jesus faced opposition and skepticism, Bethany was a place of welcome and rest. Mary, Martha, and Lazarus offered Jesus a safe haven, a home where He could find comfort and support. Theirs was not a casual acquaintance with Christ, but a close, meaningful relationship.
This setting helps us understand that Jesus valued friendship and community. Despite being the Savior of the world, He chose to cultivate deep personal connections. This truth is both encouraging and humbling, reminding new believers that Jesus desires a personal relationship with each of us.
The Message Sent to Jesus: A Cry for Help
John 11 begins with a crisis. Lazarus falls seriously ill, and his sisters send a message to Jesus: "Lord, the one you love is sick" (John 11:3). Notice how they describe Lazarus—not just by name, but as "the one you love." This simple phrase tells us volumes about the depth of Jesus' friendship with Lazarus. He was not just a follower or a face in the crowd. He was loved.
But rather than rushing to Lazarus’ side, Jesus makes a startling decision: He waits. He tells His disciples that the sickness "will not end in death" but will serve to glorify God (John 11:4). For new believers, this can be a difficult concept—why would Jesus delay helping someone He loves? The answer lies in the bigger picture of God’s plan and the trust that faith requires.
Jesus Wept: The Depth of Christ’s Compassion
When Jesus finally arrives in Bethany, Lazarus has been dead for four days. Both Martha and Mary express their heartbreak: "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died" (John 11:21, 32). What follows is one of the most profound verses in all of Scripture: "Jesus wept" (John 11:35).
This short verse carries immense power. It shows us a Savior who is not distant or detached, but deeply empathetic. Jesus knew He was about to raise Lazarus from the dead, yet He still wept. Why? Because He was moved by the sorrow of His friends. He entered into their pain. For those new to the faith, this is a comforting reminder that Jesus understands our emotions. He is not indifferent to our suffering.
The Miracle: Lazarus Raised from the Dead
Jesus approaches the tomb and commands that the stone be rolled away. Despite concerns about the odor of death, Jesus prays aloud to the Father and then calls out, "Lazarus, come out!" (John 11:43). And Lazarus does.
This miracle is more than a demonstration of power. It's a revelation of Jesus as the resurrection and the life (John 11:25). For new believers, this event reinforces the core promise of Christianity: that through faith in Christ, we too can experience resurrection—both spiritually and, one day, physically.
The raising of Lazarus also sets in motion the events that lead to Jesus’ own crucifixion. The miracle was so powerful that it shook the religious leaders, who feared losing their influence and authority. In a sense, Lazarus' return to life marked the beginning of Jesus' journey to the cross.
Friendship Beyond the Miracle: The Dinner at Bethany
In John 12, we find Jesus again in Bethany, enjoying a meal with Lazarus, Mary, and Martha. This scene is quiet but powerful. Lazarus, once dead, is now reclining at the table with Jesus. Mary anoints Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume, an act of love and devotion. It’s a moment of intimacy, gratitude, and friendship.
This dinner shows us that Jesus doesn’t just perform miracles and move on. He continues to build relationships. He values presence over performance, and love over status. For new followers of Christ, this is a crucial lesson. Christianity is not just about believing in a set of doctrines—it's about being in relationship with a living Savior.
What We Learn from the Friendship of Jesus and Lazarus
1. Jesus Loves Deeply and Personally
The story of Lazarus shows us that Jesus’ love is not abstract. He loves individuals deeply, personally, and sacrificially. If He loved Lazarus like this, He loves you the same way.
2. Jesus Understands Our Pain
Jesus’ tears at Lazarus’ tomb demonstrate His empathy. He is not a distant God but one who shares in our grief.
3. Delays Are Not Denials
Jesus delayed coming to Lazarus for a greater purpose. Sometimes God’s timing is different from ours, but His love never wavers. Trusting in His plan brings peace.
4. Jesus Has Power Over Death
Lazarus' resurrection was a foreshadowing of Jesus’ own victory over death. This gives us hope that eternal life is real and available through Him.
5. Friendship with Jesus Is Ongoing
Even after the miracle, Jesus continued to be with Lazarus and his family. Your relationship with Christ is not a one-time event; it's a lifelong journey.
Conclusion: Your Invitation to Friendship with Jesus
The friendship between Jesus and Lazarus is more than a touching story—it’s an invitation. Jesus invites you into the same kind of close, loving, and transformative relationship. As a new believer, you can take comfort in knowing that Jesus cares deeply for you, walks with you in your pain, and offers you the promise of eternal life.
Bethany was a place where Jesus was welcomed, loved, and honored. You can be that kind of place for Him, too. Open your heart, invite Him in, and begin to walk in the richness of friendship with Christ. Just like Lazarus, your life can be transformed by the presence of Jesus. And that’s the beginning of a beautiful journey.
