A Matter of Life and Death (John 11:1-57)

Introduction
When you really love someone and they are in desperate need, you drop everything you're doing in order to help them, right?

In this chapter, some people whom Jesus loved were in a desperate situation -- Lazarus was in critical condition. His sisters, Mary and Martha, knew only one cure -- find Jesus. But to their horror, their brother dies before Jesus arrives.

We discover that God's plan in this situation was to reveal His power over death, "this sickness will not end in death". And is so doing, many would come to faith and many of his followers would grow in faith.

Lazarus Dies (John 11:1-37)
Jesus gives power to cope with life and life that overcomes death.
When was the last time you wept over the effects of sin in your life?
What challenges has God allowed in your life that have served to show forth His glory more clearly?
What are you currently facing that might be an opportunity to bring God glory?
Who do you say Jesus is? And what difference does this knowledge make in relation to daily life? What about in relation to eternity?

Lazarus Lives (John 11:38-44)
Jesus power overcomes the power of death.
Where do you see yourself in this word picture in John? Are you in the tomb, still dead in trespasses and sin?
Have you heard Jesus voice, but are refusing the respond to his call?
What remnants from the past, before Jesus gave you life, might you still be dragging around with you? Will you ask Jesus to show you what they are? Will you seek to remove them, in his strength?

One Life For All (John 11:45-57)
Man's evil plans are unable to thwart God's divine purpose.
What human schemes are you most afraid of?
What current world situations seem out of control?
Which of these is beyond God's knowledge? Which are beyond His ability to address?
What are you fighting against that may actually be fighting against God's plans?