John 11:45-57, The Responses to the Raising of Lazarus

Bible Study with Dr. Thomas Constable

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Podcast Summary: John 11:45-57 - The Responses to the Raising of Lazarus

Title: The Aftermath of a Miracle: Responses to the Raising of Lazarus

Episode Description:
In John 11:45-57, we see the diverse reactions to the astonishing miracle of Lazarus being raised from the dead. While many believe in Jesus because of this sign, others, especially the religious authorities, respond with fear and hostility. The plot to kill Jesus intensifies, marking a turning point in the Gospel narrative. Join us as we examine the contrasting responses to this miraculous event and explore how Jesus' actions continue to challenge both faith and opposition.

Episode Notes

1. The Belief of Many (Verses 45-46)

• Faith Sparked by the Miracle:
  After witnessing Lazarus’ resurrection, many people who had been present believe in Jesus. This miracle strengthens their faith, showing that Jesus is truly the Messiah and has the power over life and death. The raising of Lazarus from the dead is a profound sign of His divine authority.
• A Group of Disbelievers:
  However, some of the people who witnessed the miracle went to the Pharisees and reported what Jesus had done. Their action highlights that not everyone is moved to faith; some are prompted by fear or disbelief, which will be pivotal in the next phase of Jesus’ journey.

2. The Religious Leaders’ Reaction (Verses 47-48)

• The Sanhedrin Convenes:
  The chief priests and Pharisees convene the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council, to discuss the growing problem that Jesus presents. They acknowledge the miraculous nature of Jesus’ works, but their concern is entirely focused on the political and social consequences. They fear that if Jesus continues to gain followers, it will incite a rebellion against Roman rule, leading to their own destruction and the loss of their authority.
• The Fear of Losing Power:
  The central issue for the religious leaders is the potential threat Jesus poses to their status and control. Rather than acknowledging the glory of God revealed through Jesus’ miracles, they are motivated by self-preservation and the fear of losing their influence over the people.

3. Caiaphas’ Prophecy (Verses 49-52)

• Caiaphas’ Insightful Statement:
  Caiaphas, the high priest, speaks up during the council meeting. He suggests that it is better for one man to die than for the whole nation to perish. Though his statement seems pragmatic and self-serving, John reveals that Caiaphas, unknowingly, is prophesying about the necessity of Jesus’ death.
• The Prophecy Explained:
  John comments that Caiaphas did not say this on his own but as the high priest that year, his words were a divine prophecy. He speaks of Jesus’ death not only as a means of saving the nation but as a way to gather together the scattered children of God, pointing to the broader implications of Jesus’ death for all people. This foreshadows the universal scope of Jesus’ sacrifice.

4. The Plot to Kill Jesus (Verses 53-54)

• The Decision to Kill Jesus:
  From that day on, the religious leaders plot to kill Jesus. The raising of Lazarus becomes the tipping point, where Jesus’ popularity and influence force the authorities into a corner. They see no other option but to eliminate Him in order to preserve their power and control over the Jewish people.
• Jesus Withdraws:
  Knowing that His time had not yet come, Jesus withdraws from the public eye and goes to a region near the wilderness, to a town called Ephraim, with His disciples. This retreat marks a temporary separation from the growing opposition. His withdrawal is part of God’s sovereign plan, as the t