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By Dean Kelly

“Lazarus come forth!” (John 11:43). 

Three simple words. Words simply stated but with the everlasting power of heaven behind them. Words spoken by the Word who has existed throughout eternity, and through whom everything was made that is made (John 1:1-4).

Three specific words: One old time preacher said, “If He didn’t call Lazarus by name, everybody in the graves would have come forth!” That is the authority of this One known as Jesus. 

Three powerful words: Here stood the Man Who with His voice told the winds and waves, “Be still” and they instantly obeyed. Devils were subject to His commanding voice. Blind eyes saw, deaf ears heard, lame legs walked, unusable arms were filled with strength. All by His powerful words. 

Three effective words: “And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with graveclothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Loose him, and let him go”” (John‬ 11‬:44‬). Death had to release its grip. Hades had let go in obedience to those three words.‬‬‬‬

Three more words: It is finished. “So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit” (John 19:30). The work that was the purpose of His pitching His tent for a little while on this earth was finished. 

He had proven who  He was by abundant signs and wonders (John 20:30-31). 

He had fulfilled all that was prophesied concerning Him (Acts 3:18). 

He was about to die as the perfect sacrifice, having no sin, to take our place so we would not have to die for our own sins (Romans 5:8).

Three more powerful words: He is risen. He finished His suffering on the cross of Calvary. He was put in a grave, but He did not stay there. The greatest declaration for the ears of humanity was made by the angel, “He is risen” (Matthew 28:6). 

Let’s meet at that cross to serve that risen Savior!

Dean Kelly is minister at Highland Home Church of Christ.