"So the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death as well, since it was on account of him that many of the Jews were deserting and were believing in Jesus."
(John 12:10)
It was one of the most famous funerals in all history (or maybe it should be considered a "non-funeral Funeral"!). Having been dead three days, Lazarus was raised to life by Jesus - his friend (John 11)! Wrapped in grave cloths and stinking up his tomb, Lazarus came walking out at Jesus' divine command. What a dramatic moment. What a powerful testimony Lazarus now had!!!
Evidently, many others thought so, too. One chapter later (John 12), we're told that many came out to both hear Jesus speak, AND TO SEE LAZARUS - the one Jesus had brought back to life. So many came that the religious leaders became uncomfortable. They'd already committed themselves to bringing down Jesus. Now they added Lazarus to the list. He, too, must die! He was a marked man.
This is another example of how evil opposes good. God is at work to bring life, goodness & mercy to the world. But not everyone finds that positive. Evil reacts (often violently) to expressions of goodness in the world. Those who have a testimony to God's grace can find themselves also being marked men (& women!). But fear not. God will never leave or forsake us. H will help us endure and persevere amidst adversity. Thanks be to God for this truth! AMEN.
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