The doctrine of Christ as God is central to Christian theology, and one of the profound demonstrations of His divine nature is His authority over life and death, as evidenced by His ability to raise the dead. This power is a testament to His deity and is vividly illustrated in several key passages of the New Testament.

Raising of Lazarus

One of the most compelling accounts of Christ raising the dead is found in the Gospel of John, where Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. In John 11:25-26 , Jesus declares, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies. And everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?" This statement not only affirms His power over death but also His identity as the source of eternal life. The subsequent miracle, where Jesus calls Lazarus out of the tomb after four days (John 11:43-44), serves as a powerful sign of His divine authority.

Raising of the Widow’s Son at Nain

Another significant event is the raising of the widow’s son at Nain, recorded in Luke 7:11-17. As Jesus approaches the town, He encounters a funeral procession for the only son of a widow. Moved with compassion, Jesus tells her, "Do not weep" (Luke 7:13). He then touches the bier and commands, "Young man, I say to you, get up!" (Luke 7:14). The young man sits up and begins to speak, and Jesus gives him back to his mother. This miracle not only demonstrates Jesus' compassion but also His sovereign power over death, evoking awe and glorification of God among the witnesses.

Raising of Jairus’ Daughter

In Mark 5:21-43, Jesus raises Jairus’ daughter from the dead. Despite being informed that the child is dead, Jesus tells Jairus, "Do not be afraid; just believe" (Mark 5:36). Upon arriving at the house, Jesus takes the child by the hand and says, "Talitha koum!" which means, "Little girl, I say to you, get up!" (Mark 5:41). Immediately, the girl rises and walks around, astonishing all present. This miracle underscores Jesus' authority over death and His ability to restore life with a mere command.

The Resurrection of Christ

The ultimate demonstration of Christ's power over death is His own resurrection. In John 10:17-18 , Jesus states, "The reason the Father loves Me is that I lay down My life in order to take it up again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of My own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from My Father." The resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith, affirming Jesus' victory over death and His divine nature as God incarnate.

Theological Implications

The ability of Christ to raise the dead is not merely a demonstration of miraculous power but a profound revelation of His identity as God. In the Old Testament, the power to give life and raise the dead is attributed solely to God (Deuteronomy 32:39, 1 Samuel 2:6). By exercising this power, Jesus affirms His divine nature and fulfills the messianic prophecies that speak of the coming of one who would conquer death (Isaiah 25:8, Hosea 13:14).

In summary, the accounts of Jesus raising the dead serve as powerful affirmations of His deity, showcasing His authority over life and death and His role as the giver of eternal life. These events invite believers to trust in His power and promise of resurrection, reinforcing the foundational Christian belief in Jesus Christ as God.John 5:21
For as the Father raises up the dead, and vivifies them; even so the Son vivifies whom he will.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

John 6:40,54
And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which sees the Son, and believes on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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