September 27, 2026 | Sunday morning sermon | Jeff Arnette
Lazarus, Come Out! | Sermon 1
Scripture: John 11:1–16
These are summarized companion notes from the recorded teaching, not a verbatim transcript.
When Jesus hears that Lazarus is ill, he waits two more days before going. John makes clear that Jesus loves Lazarus, Mary, and Martha. This sermon considers the pain of waiting, the purpose of Jesus’ delay, and the faith that follows him before all the answers are clear.
Bring your need to the one who loves you
The sisters appeal to Jesus’ love when they tell him that Lazarus is ill. They do not build a case around their own worthiness. Jeff encourages the church to pray honestly about fear and hurt, trusting that Jesus already knows and cares.
His delay does not measure his love
The waiting is painful, and knowing that Jesus loves them does not make the sisters’ experience easy. Jesus says that the illness is for God’s glory. The sermon urges listeners not to use the length of a delay as a measure of Jesus’ love, even when his purposes remain difficult to understand.
Follow the light you have
Returning to Judea brings danger, and the disciples question Jesus’ decision to go. Jesus speaks about walking in the daylight and doing the work while there is opportunity. Jeff connects this with the Good Shepherd’s care and encourages trust in the next step Jesus gives, without demanding to see the whole path first.
Faith can follow before understanding
Jesus tells the disciples plainly that Lazarus has died and points to what this will mean for their belief. Thomas urges the others to go with Jesus even though he expects danger. The sermon highlights his willingness to follow despite incomplete understanding and closes with an invitation to seek encouragement and help from the church.
Reflection and application
What are you waiting and praying for today? Bring that need honestly to Jesus. Consider the next faithful step you can take while the answer remains unclear, and encourage someone else who is struggling with the waiting.