Key Scripture Readings: Mark 5:22-43; Luke 7:11-17; John 11:1-46
Fast Facts
- The gospels record three incidents in which Jesus raised the dead. These miracles demonstrated that the Lord had power even over death and the grave!
- Mark 5:22-43 talks about the occasion in which Jesus raised a twelve-year-old girl from the dead. This little girl was the daughter of Jairus. Jairus was the ruler of a synagogue. He initially came to Jesus, begging Him to come into his home to heal his sick daughter. By the time they arrived, the girl was dead. The Lord said a few words and raised her back to life.
- Luke 7:11-17 mentions the time in which Jesus raised a widow’s son. This miracle took place in the village of Nain. After running into a funeral procession, Jesus touched the coffin being carried by the bearers, said a few words, and the young man was brought resurrected. After witnessing this miracle, the people knew that Jesus had to be sent from heaven.
- John 11:1-46 records the most famous case of resurrection Jesus performed. After being dead for four days, Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. This case of resurrection could not even be denied by the Lord’s enemies (John 12:9-11). The chief priests became very nervous because many Jews started believing in Jesus after this miracle. They decided that Jesus had to die, and so did Lazarus (because he was living proof of Jesus’ miraculous power).
Study Questions
- Besides the people raised by Jesus, list some other cases of resurrection found in the Bible?
- Who was Jairus? What did he want Jesus to do? Describe his faith.
- How did the people of Nain respond to Jesus, raising the widow’s son?
- What evidence makes the raising of Lazarus an undeniable case of resurrection?
- What does Jesus’ power to raise the dead demonstrate about Him?
