The raising of Lazarus from the dead constitutes a pivotal event within the Gospel of John. This miracle demonstrates divine power over death and serves as a prefiguration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a concrete example of the promise of eternal life offered to believers.
This act was strategically significant. It solidified belief among many who witnessed it, convincing them of Jesus’s messianic identity and divine authority. Concurrently, it escalated the opposition from religious leaders who perceived this display of power as a direct threat to their authority and status. The incident, therefore, accelerated the events leading to the crucifixion.