Sermon on 10/12/25 by Pastor Todd Sapp

The resurrection of Lazarus was not just a miracle; it was a crisis point that forced everyone to choose a side. This message dives into John 11:45-53 to explore the dramatic fallout when Jesus raised the dead. Discover why this event was so consequential that it exposed the self-serving agendas of the religious leaders and revealed the profound truth of God's sovereign plan.

We'll unpack:

• How Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead was an undeniable event that compelled a response.
• The two opposing reactions: belief versus combat mode (reporting Jesus to the authorities).
• The agenda exposed: The religious leaders feared losing their power and place (the Temple) more than they feared rejecting the Messiah.
• Caiaphas's prophetic and ironic statement: "It is better for you that one man should die for the people."
• The revelation of God's true plan: Jesus would die as the sacrificial scapegoat (fulfilling the Day of Atonement) to gather all His scattered children.

This sermon is a powerful challenge to examine your own priorities and confess Jesus as the Lord who has power over life and death.

Keywords: John 11:45-53, Lazarus, resurrection, Caiaphas, Pharisees, religious leaders, agenda, God's plan, sovereignty, eternal life, belief, unbelief, sacrifice, substitution, atonement, scapegoat, Lordship of Jesus, Messiah, Christ, Bible, sermon.

Music used with Permission through our CCLI Copyright License Number #54024 and Streaming License Number #20133927

Find out more about Northwoods Church at www.nwctally.com