The audience handout covers the full planned passage, John 11:45–57, including two later points not developed in this recording.
Sunday AM Sermon • October 25, 2026 • Jeff Arnette
Lazarus, Come Out! — Sermon 5. Scripture: John 11:45–57; the recorded sermon focuses on verses 45–48.
These summarized companion notes follow the recorded sermon and spoken invitation; they are not a verbatim transcript.
Raising Lazarus brings life to one man while intensifying the opposition that leads Jesus toward the cross. The sermon asks what his rescue cost and what we are protecting when we hesitate to follow him.
The cost of rescue
An opening illustration about helping someone stranded in the snow reminds us that rescue can cost the helper more than the rescued person sees. Lazarus walks out alive, but Jesus knows the danger involved in returning to Bethany and calling him from the grave.
Different responses to the same sign
John 11:45–46 describes some witnesses believing in Jesus while others report what happened to the Pharisees. Jeff notes that John records these different responses without explaining every person’s motive. The miracle brings the religious leaders together to consider what to do.
Afraid of losing their place
The council acknowledges Jesus’ signs but fears losing its place and nation. The sermon focuses on the danger of recognizing what is true while resisting what it may cost us. The leaders’ concern for what they could lose shapes their response to Jesus.
The things we protect
Jeff applies the passage to difficult conversations we avoid, workplace approval we seek, and habits or sins we resist leaving behind. We may believe in Jesus while still calculating whether obedience will cost too much comfort, reputation, or security.
Giving ourselves fully to Christ
The sermon calls us to consider what we are holding onto and whether we love it more than Christ. Jesus’ costly rescue calls for wholehearted trust. Romans 6:4 points toward walking in newness of life, which requires letting go of the old life.
Reflection and invitation
What place am I protecting? What do I need to release so I can follow Jesus fully? The recording ends with an invitation to seek prayer, help, and encouragement from the church as we respond to his word.