John 12:9-10 Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and putting their faith in him. When you are a recipient of God’s blessing, you also become a target of Satan’s attack. Lazarus had received the ultimate miraculous healing, having been raised from the dead after 4 days in the tomb. His very life now became a testimony of Jesus power and authority. No doubt, Lazarus, Mary and Martha told everybody they could about what Christ had done. As a result, many people were putting faith in Jesus. This did not sit well with Satan, as he saw the effectiveness of Lazarus testimony. Lazarus needed taken out of the game. He now had a big bull’s-eye on his back, and the Pharisees were making plans to eliminate him. As the redeemed of God; recipients of God’s grace; having been raised from death to life; under His constant care and provision; we too have much to proclaim. We have a testimony to share. Our very life affirms God’s saving power. The result of our witness should be that we influence others to put their faith in Christ. As we are effective in doing so, we become the object of Satan’s wrath. He will inspire others to try and destroy us. He will attempt to attack our body, our marriage, our family, our finances-anything to abolish our testimony. What are we to do? First, understand that the God we serve is far greater than Satan and take heart in that. Second, we do not fear, pull back, or become discouraged when Satan attacks us. Like Jesus; like Lazarus; like the Apostle Paul; like many others in the New Testiment; we press on with the call of God, knowing that God’s purpose will march forward. Lastly, we use the authority Jesus died to give us over the devil. In Christ, Satan is under our feet and God is in ultimate control. Whatever became of Lazarus? While there a various traditions of his later life, we simply do not know. The Bible is silent. However, this we do know. In spite of Satan’s best efforts, the Gospel continued to spread and people kept coming to faith. Also, Lazarus did have another funeral and today is in heaven with Christ. These two realities will stand true for us as well. Satan can attack, but he will fail. God’s Gospel will march forward, and no matter what the battles of this life, we will one day stand victorious on that heavenly shore. Therefore child of God, do not give up! “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.” (Rev 12:11)
Posted on: Tue, 08 Jul 2014 13:46:27 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015