Faith without religion.
Faith and Doubt in the Lazarus Narrative
In a unique approach to church, a recent teaching session explored the profound narrative of John 11:27, focusing on the story of Lazarus. The session, held on June 22, 2014, was broadcasted live and streamed online, reaching audiences far and wide. The format was simple yet impactful, featuring prayer, singing scripture set to music, silent reflection, and a verse-by-verse teaching of the Word, followed by a Q&A session.
The teaching delved into the journey of Jesus and His disciples to Bethany, where Lazarus had died. The narrative highlighted the disciples’ misunderstanding of Jesus’ words when He referred to Lazarus as “sleeping,” a term often used metaphorically for death. This led to a discussion on the concept of “soul sleep,” a belief held by some denominations, and how it contrasts with the New Testament’s teachings on life after death.
The session also explored the character of Thomas, known for his skepticism, and how his response to Jesus’ plan to return to Judea revealed his doubts. This was paralleled with the struggle between faith and doubt that many believers face today.
Martha’s interaction with Jesus was another focal point, showcasing her faith in Jesus’ power while also revealing her limited understanding of His divine nature. Jesus’ response to her, “Thy brother shall rise again,” was both a promise and a teaching moment, encouraging a deeper recognition of His identity as the resurrection and the life.
The teaching concluded with a reflection on the dual nature of believers, embodying both doubt and faith, and the call to trust in God’s promises. This session was a reminder of the importance of faith and the transformative power of understanding Jesus’ true nature.
