Changes

==PAPER 168: THE RESURRECTION OF LAZARUS==

==PAPER 168: THE RESURRECTION OF LAZARUS==

168:0.1 It was shortly after noon when [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] started out to meet [[Jesus]] as he came over the brow of the hill near [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. Her [[brother]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], had been [[dead]] four days and had been laid away in their [[private]] [[tomb]] at the far end of the [[garden]] late on Sunday afternoon. The stone at the entrance of the [[tomb]] had been rolled in place on the [[morning]] of this day, Thursday.

168:0.1 It was shortly after noon when [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] started out to meet [[Jesus]] as he came over the brow of the hill near [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. Her [[brother]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], had been [[dead]] four days and had been laid away in their [[private]] [[tomb]] at the far end of the [[garden]] late on Sunday afternoon. The stone at the entrance of the [[tomb]] had been rolled in place on the [[morning]] of this day, Thursday.

168:0.2 When [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] sent [[word]] to [[Jesus]] concerning [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s [[illness]], they were [[confident]] [[the Master]] would do something about it. They knew that their [[brother]] was desperately sick, and though they hardly [[dared]] [[hope]] that [[Jesus]] would leave his [[work]] of [[teaching]] and [[preaching]] to come to their [[assistance]], they had such [[confidence]] in his [[power]] to [[heal]] [[disease]] that they [[thought]] he would just [[speak]] the curative [[words]], and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] would [[immediately]] be made whole. And when [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] died a few hours after the [[messenger]] left [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amman Philadelphia], they reasoned that it was because [[the Master]] did not [[learn]] of their brother's [[illness]] until it was too late, until he had already been [[dead]] for several hours.

168:0.2 When [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] sent [[word]] to [[Jesus]] concerning [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s [[illness]], they were [[confident]] [[the Master]] would do something about it. They knew that their [[brother]] was desperately sick, and though they hardly [[dared]] [[hope]] that [[Jesus]] would leave his [[work]] of [[teaching]] and [[preaching]] to come to their [[assistance]], they had such [[confidence]] in his [[power]] to [[heal]] [[disease]] that they [[thought]] he would just [[speak]] the curative [[words]], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] would [[immediately]] be made whole. And when [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] died a few hours after the [[messenger]] left [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amman Philadelphia], they reasoned that it was because [[the Master]] did not [[learn]] of their brother's [[illness]] until it was too late, until he had already been [[dead]] for several hours.

168:0.3 But they, with all of their [[believing]] [[friends]], were greatly [[puzzled]] by the [[message]] which the [[Messenger|runner]] brought back Tuesday forenoon when he reached [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. The [[messenger]] insisted that he heard [[Jesus]] say, "...this [[sickness]] is really not to the [[death]]. " Neither could they [[understand]] why he sent no [[word]] to them nor otherwise proffered [[assistance]].

168:0.3 But they, with all of their [[believing]] [[friends]], were greatly [[puzzled]] by the [[message]] which the [[Messenger|runner]] brought back Tuesday forenoon when he reached [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. The [[messenger]] insisted that he heard [[Jesus]] say, "...this [[sickness]] is really not to the [[death]]. " Neither could they [[understand]] why he sent no [[word]] to them nor otherwise proffered [[assistance]].

168:0.4 Many [[friends]] from near-by hamlets and others from [[Jerusalem]] came over to [[comfort]] the [[sorrow]]-stricken sisters. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] and his sisters were the [[children]] of a [[well-to-do]] and [[honor]]able [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jew], one who had been the [[leading]] resident of the little village of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. And notwithstanding that all [[three]] had long been ardent followers of [[Jesus]], they were highly [[respected]] by all who knew them. They had [[inherited]] extensive [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vineyards vineyards] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olive olive orchards] in this vicinity, and that they were [[wealthy]] was further attested by the [[fact]] that they could afford a [[private]] [[burial]] [[tomb]] on their own premises. Both of their [[parents]] had already been laid away in this [[tomb]].

168:0.4 Many [[friends]] from near-by hamlets and others from [[Jerusalem]] came over to [[comfort]] the [[sorrow]]-stricken sisters. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] and his sisters were the [[children]] of a [[well-to-do]] and [[honor]]able [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jew], one who had been the [[leading]] resident of the little village of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. And notwithstanding that all [[three]] had long been ardent followers of [[Jesus]], they were highly [[respected]] by all who knew them. They had [[inherited]] extensive [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vineyards vineyards] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olive olive orchards] in this vicinity, and that they were [[wealthy]] was further attested by the [[fact]] that they could afford a [[private]] [[burial]] [[tomb]] on their own premises. Both of their [[parents]] had already been laid away in this [[tomb]].

168:0.5 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] had given up the [[thought]] of [[Jesus]]' coming and was abandoned to her [[grief]], but [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] clung to the [[hope]] that [[Jesus]] would come, even up to the time on that very [[morning]] when they rolled the stone in front of the [[tomb]] and sealed the entrance. Even then she instructed a [[neighbor]] lad to keep watch down the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jericho Jericho] road from the brow of the hill to the east of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]; and it was this lad who brought tidings to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] that [[Jesus]] and his [[friends]] were approaching.

168:0.5 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] had given up the [[thought]] of [[Jesus]]' coming and was abandoned to her [[grief]], but [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] clung to the [[hope]] that [[Jesus]] would come, even up to the time on that very [[morning]] when they rolled the stone in front of the [[tomb]] and sealed the entrance. Even then she instructed a [[neighbor]] lad to keep watch down the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jericho Jericho] road from the brow of the hill to the east of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]; and it was this lad who brought tidings to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] that [[Jesus]] and his [[friends]] were approaching.

168:0.6 When [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] met [[Jesus]], she fell at his feet, exclaiming, " Master, if you had been here, my [[brother]] would not have died! " Many [[fears]] were passing through [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha]'s [[mind]], but she gave [[expression]] to no [[doubt]], nor did she venture to [[criticize]] or question [[the Master]]'s [[conduct]] as related to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s [[death]]. When she had [[spoken]], [[Jesus]] reached down and, lifting her upon her feet, said, " Only have [[faith]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha], and your [[brother]] shall rise again. " Then answered Martha: " I know that he will rise again in the [[resurrection]] of the last day; and even now I [[believe]] that whatever you shall ask of [[God]], [[our Father]] will give you. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_john#Chapter_11]

168:0.6 When [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] met [[Jesus]], she fell at his feet, exclaiming, " Master, if you had been here, my [[brother]] would not have died! " Many [[fears]] were passing through [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha]'s [[mind]], but she gave [[expression]] to no [[doubt]], nor did she venture to [[criticize]] or question [[the Master]]'s [[conduct]] as related to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s [[death]]. When she had [[spoken]], [[Jesus]] reached down and, lifting her upon her feet, said, " Only have [[faith]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha], and your [[brother]] shall rise again. " Then answered Martha: " I know that he will rise again in the [[resurrection]] of the last day; and even now I [[believe]] that whatever you shall ask of [[God]], [[our Father]] will give you. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_john#Chapter_11]

168:0.7 Then said [[Jesus]], looking straight into the eyes of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha]: " I am the [[resurrection]] and the life; he who [[believes]] in me, though he dies, yet shall he live. In [[truth]], whosoever lives and believes in me shall never really die. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha], do you [[believe]] this? " And Martha answered [[the Master]]: " Yes, I have long [[believed]] that you are the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_messianism Deliverer], [[Divine Sons|the Son]] of the living God, even he who should come to this world. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]

168:0.7 Then said [[Jesus]], looking straight into the eyes of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha]: " I am the [[resurrection]] and the life; he who [[believes]] in me, though he dies, yet shall he live. In [[truth]], whosoever lives and believes in me shall never really die. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha], do you [[believe]] this? " And Martha answered [[the Master]]: " Yes, I have long [[believed]] that you are the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_messianism Deliverer], [[Divine Sons|the Son]] of the living God, even he who should come to this world. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]

168:0.8 [[Jesus]] having [[inquired]] for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] went at once into the house and, [[whispering]] to her sister, said, " [[The Master]] is here and has asked for you. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11] And when [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] heard this, she rose up quickly and hastened out to meet [[Jesus]], who still tarried at the place, some distance from the house, where [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] had first met him. The [[friends]] who were with Mary, seeking to [[comfort]] her, when they saw that she rose up quickly and went out, followed her, supposing that she was going to the [[tomb]] to [[weep]].

168:0.8 [[Jesus]] having [[inquired]] for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] went at once into the house and, [[whispering]] to her sister, said, " [[The Master]] is here and has asked for you. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11] And when [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] heard this, she rose up quickly and hastened out to meet [[Jesus]], who still tarried at the place, some distance from the house, where [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] had first met him. The [[friends]] who were with Mary, seeking to [[comfort]] her, when they saw that she rose up quickly and went out, followed her, supposing that she was going to the [[tomb]] to [[weep]].

168:0.9 Many of those present were [[Jesus]]' bitter [[enemies]]. That is why [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] had come out to meet him [[alone]], and also why she went in [[secretly]] to inform [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] that he had asked for her. Martha, while craving to see [[Jesus]], desired to avoid any possible unpleasantness which might be caused by his coming suddenly into the midst of a large [[group]] of his [[Jerusalem]] [[enemies]]. It had been [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha]'s [[intention]] to remain in the house with their [[friends]] while [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] went to greet [[Jesus]], but in this she failed, for they all followed [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] and so found themselves unexpectedly in the [[presence]] of [[the Master]].

168:0.9 Many of those present were [[Jesus]]' bitter [[enemies]]. That is why [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] had come out to meet him [[alone]], and also why she went in [[secretly]] to inform [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] that he had asked for her. Martha, while craving to see [[Jesus]], desired to avoid any possible unpleasantness which might be caused by his coming suddenly into the midst of a large [[group]] of his [[Jerusalem]] [[enemies]]. It had been [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha]'s [[intention]] to remain in the house with their [[friends]] while [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] went to greet [[Jesus]], but in this she failed, for they all followed [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] and so found themselves unexpectedly in the [[presence]] of [[the Master]].

168:0.10 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] led [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] to [[Jesus]], and when she saw him, she fell at his feet, exclaiming, " If you had only been here, my brother would not have died! " And when [[Jesus]] saw how they all [[grieved]] over the [[death]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], his [[soul]] was moved with [[compassion]].

168:0.10 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] led [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] to [[Jesus]], and when she saw him, she fell at his feet, exclaiming, " If you had only been here, my brother would not have died! " And when [[Jesus]] saw how they all [[grieved]] over the [[death]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], his [[soul]] was moved with [[compassion]].

168:0.11 When the [[mourn]]ers saw that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] had gone to greet [[Jesus]], they withdrew for a short distance while both [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and Mary talked with [[the Master]] and [[received]] further [[words]] of [[comfort]] and [[exhortation]] to maintain [[strong]] [[faith]] in [[the Father]] and complete [[resignation]] to the [[divine]] [[Free will|will]].

168:0.11 When the [[mourn]]ers saw that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] had gone to greet [[Jesus]], they withdrew for a short distance while both [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and Mary talked with [[the Master]] and [[received]] further [[words]] of [[comfort]] and [[exhortation]] to maintain [[strong]] [[faith]] in [[the Father]] and complete [[resignation]] to the [[divine]] [[Free will|will]].

168:0.12 The [[human]] [[mind]] of [[Jesus]] was mightily moved by the [[contention]] between his [[love]] for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] and the bereaved sisters and his disdain and [[contempt]] for the outward show of [[affection]] [[manifested]] by some of these unbelieving and [[murder]]ously [[intention]]ed [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews]. [[Jesus]] [[indignantly]] resented the show of [[Arbitrary|forced]] and outward [[mourning]] for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] by some of these professed [[friends]] inasmuch as such [[false]] [[sorrow]] was associated in their [[hearts]] with so much bitter [[enmity]] toward himself. Some of these Jews, however, were [[sincere]] in their [[mourning]], for they were real [[friends]] of the [[family]].

168:0.12 The [[human]] [[mind]] of [[Jesus]] was mightily moved by the [[contention]] between his [[love]] for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] and the bereaved sisters and his disdain and [[contempt]] for the outward show of [[affection]] [[manifested]] by some of these unbelieving and [[murder]]ously [[intention]]ed [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews]. [[Jesus]] [[indignantly]] resented the show of [[Arbitrary|forced]] and outward [[mourning]] for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] by some of these professed [[friends]] inasmuch as such [[false]] [[sorrow]] was associated in their [[hearts]] with so much bitter [[enmity]] toward himself. Some of these Jews, however, were [[sincere]] in their [[mourning]], for they were real [[friends]] of the [[family]].

==168:1. AT THE TOMB OF LAZARUS==

==168:1. AT THE TOMB OF LAZARUS==

168:1.1 After [[Jesus]] had spent a few [[moments]] in [[comforting]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary], apart from the [[mourn]]ers, he asked them, " Where have you laid him? " Then Martha said, " Come and see. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11] And as [[the Master]] followed on in [[silence]] with the two sorrowing sisters, he [[wept]]. When the [[friendly]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews] who followed after them saw his tears, one of them said: " Behold how he loved him. Could not he who opened the eyes of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blindness blind] have kept this man from [[dying]]? "[[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]] By this time they were standing before the [[family]] [[tomb]], a small [[natural]] [[cave]], or declivity, in the ledge of rock which rose up some thirty feet at the far end of the [[garden]] plot.

168:1.1 After [[Jesus]] had spent a few [[moments]] in [[comforting]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary], apart from the [[mourn]]ers, he asked them, " Where have you laid him? " Then Martha said, " Come and see. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11] And as [[the Master]] followed on in [[silence]] with the two sorrowing sisters, he [[wept]]. When the [[friendly]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews] who followed after them saw his tears, one of them said: " Behold how he loved him. Could not he who opened the eyes of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blindness blind] have kept this man from [[dying]]? "[[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]] By this time they were standing before the [[family]] [[tomb]], a small [[natural]] [[cave]], or declivity, in the ledge of rock which rose up some thirty feet at the far end of the [[garden]] plot.

168:1.2 It is difficult to [[explain]] to [[human]] [[minds]] just why [[Jesus]] [[wept]]. While we have [[access]] to the registration of the combined [[human]] [[emotions]] and [[divine]] [[thoughts]], as of [[record]] in the [[mind]] of the [[Personalized Adjuster]], we are not altogether [[certain]] about the real [[cause]] of these [[emotional]] [[manifestations]]. We are inclined to [[believe]] that [[Jesus]] [[wept]] because of a number of [[thoughts]] and [[feelings]] which were going through his [[mind]] at this time, such as:

168:1.2 It is difficult to [[explain]] to [[human]] [[minds]] just why [[Jesus]] [[wept]]. While we have [[access]] to the registration of the combined [[human]] [[emotions]] and [[divine]] [[thoughts]], as of [[record]] in the [[mind]] of the [[Personalized Adjuster]], we are not altogether [[certain]] about the real [[cause]] of these [[emotional]] [[manifestations]]. We are inclined to [[believe]] that [[Jesus]] [[wept]] because of a number of [[thoughts]] and [[feelings]] which were going through his [[mind]] at this time, such as:

168:1.3 1. He felt a genuine and sorrowful [[sympathy]] for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary]; he had a real and [[deep]] [[human]] [[affection]] for these sisters who had lost their [[brother]].

168:1.3 1. He felt a genuine and sorrowful [[sympathy]] for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary]; he had a real and [[deep]] [[human]] [[affection]] for these sisters who had lost their [[brother]].

168:1.4 2. He was perturbed in his [[mind]] by the [[presence]] of the crowd of [[mourn]]ers, some [[sincere]] and some merely pretenders. He always resented these outward [[exhibition]]s of mourning. He knew the sisters [[loved]] their brother and had [[faith]] in the [[survival]] of [[believers]]. These [[conflicting]] [[emotions]] may possibly [[explain]] why he groaned as they came near the [[tomb]].

168:1.4 2. He was perturbed in his [[mind]] by the [[presence]] of the crowd of [[mourn]]ers, some [[sincere]] and some merely pretenders. He always resented these outward [[exhibition]]s of mourning. He knew the sisters [[loved]] their brother and had [[faith]] in the [[survival]] of [[believers]]. These [[conflicting]] [[emotions]] may possibly [[explain]] why he groaned as they came near the [[tomb]].

168:1.5 3. He truly [[hesitated]] about bringing [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] back to the [[mortal]] life. His sisters really needed him, but [[Jesus]] [[regretted]] having to [[summon]] his [[friend]] back to [[experience]] the bitter [[persecution]] which he well knew [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] would have to [[endure]] as a result of being the subject of the greatest of all [[demonstrations]] of the [[divine]] [[power]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man].

168:1.5 3. He truly [[hesitated]] about bringing [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] back to the [[mortal]] life. His sisters really needed him, but [[Jesus]] [[regretted]] having to [[summon]] his [[friend]] back to [[experience]] the bitter [[persecution]] which he well knew [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] would have to [[endure]] as a result of being the subject of the greatest of all [[demonstrations]] of the [[divine]] [[power]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man].

168:1.6 And now we may relate an interesting and instructive [[fact]]: Although this [[narrative]] unfolds as an apparently [[natural]] and [[normal]] event in [[human]] affairs, it has some very interesting side lights. While the [[messenger]] went to [[Jesus]] on Sunday, telling him of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s illness, and while [[Jesus]] sent [[word]] that it was " not to the [[death]], " at the [[same time]] he went in [[person]] up to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] and even asked the sisters, " Where have you laid him? " Even though all of this seems to indicate that [[the Master]] was proceeding after the [[manner]] of this life and in [[accordance]] with the [[limited]] [[knowledge]] of the [[human]] [[mind]], nevertheless, the [[records]] of the [[universe]] [[reveal]] that [[Jesus]]' [[Personalized Adjuster]] issued orders for the indefinite [[detention]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s [[Thought Adjuster]] on the [[planet]] subsequent to Lazarus's [[death]], and that this order was made of [[record]] just fifteen minutes before Lazarus breathed his last.

168:1.6 And now we may relate an interesting and instructive [[fact]]: Although this [[narrative]] unfolds as an apparently [[natural]] and [[normal]] event in [[human]] affairs, it has some very interesting side lights. While the [[messenger]] went to [[Jesus]] on Sunday, telling him of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s illness, and while [[Jesus]] sent [[word]] that it was " not to the [[death]], " at the [[same time]] he went in [[person]] up to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] and even asked the sisters, " Where have you laid him? " Even though all of this seems to indicate that [[the Master]] was proceeding after the [[manner]] of this life and in [[accordance]] with the [[limited]] [[knowledge]] of the [[human]] [[mind]], nevertheless, the [[records]] of the [[universe]] [[reveal]] that [[Jesus]]' [[Personalized Adjuster]] issued orders for the indefinite [[detention]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s [[Thought Adjuster]] on the [[planet]] subsequent to Lazarus's [[death]], and that this order was made of [[record]] just fifteen minutes before Lazarus breathed his last.

168:1.7 Did the [[divine]] [[mind]] of [[Jesus]] know, even before [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] [[died]], that he would raise him from the [[dead]]? We do not know. We know only what we are herewith placing on [[record]].

168:1.7 Did the [[divine]] [[mind]] of [[Jesus]] know, even before [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] [[died]], that he would raise him from the [[dead]]? We do not know. We know only what we are herewith placing on [[record]].

168:1.8 Many of [[Jesus]]' [[enemies]] were inclined to [[sneer]] at his [[manifestations]] of [[affection]], and they said among themselves: " If he [[thought]] so much of this man, why did he tarry so long before coming to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]? If he is what they claim, why did he not save his dear [[friend]]? What is the [[good]] of [[healing]] strangers in [[Galilee]] if he cannot save those whom he loves? " And in many other ways they [[mocked]] and made light of the [[teachings]] and [[work]]s of [[Jesus]].

168:1.8 Many of [[Jesus]]' [[enemies]] were inclined to [[sneer]] at his [[manifestations]] of [[affection]], and they said among themselves: " If he [[thought]] so much of this man, why did he tarry so long before coming to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]? If he is what they claim, why did he not save his dear [[friend]]? What is the [[good]] of [[healing]] strangers in [[Galilee]] if he cannot save those whom he loves? " And in many other ways they [[mocked]] and made light of the [[teachings]] and [[work]]s of [[Jesus]].

168:1.9 And so, on this Thursday afternoon at about half past two o'clock, was the [[stage]] all set in this little hamlet of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] for the enactment of the greatest of all [[works]] connected with the [[earth]] [[ministry]] of [[Michael]] of [[Nebadon]], the greatest [[manifestation]] of [[divine]] [[power]] during his [[incarnation]] in the [[flesh]], since his own [[resurrection]] occurred after he had been [[liberated]] from the bonds of [[mortal]] habitation.

168:1.9 And so, on this Thursday afternoon at about half past two o'clock, was the [[stage]] all set in this little hamlet of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] for the enactment of the greatest of all [[works]] connected with the [[earth]] [[ministry]] of [[Michael]] of [[Nebadon]], the greatest [[manifestation]] of [[divine]] [[power]] during his [[incarnation]] in the [[flesh]], since his own [[resurrection]] occurred after he had been [[liberated]] from the bonds of [[mortal]] habitation.

168:1.10 The small [[group]] assembled before [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s [[tomb]] little [[realized]] the [[presence]] near at hand of a [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_37 vast concourse of all orders] of [[celestial]] [[beings]] assembled under the [[leadership]] of [[Gabriel]] and now in waiting, by direction of the [[Personalized Adjuster]] of [[Jesus]], [[vibrating]] with [[expectancy]] and ready to [[execute]] the bidding of their [[Master Son|beloved Sovereign]].

168:1.10 The small [[group]] assembled before [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s [[tomb]] little [[realized]] the [[presence]] near at hand of a [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_37 vast concourse of all orders] of [[celestial]] [[beings]] assembled under the [[leadership]] of [[Gabriel]] and now in waiting, by direction of the [[Personalized Adjuster]] of [[Jesus]], [[vibrating]] with [[expectancy]] and ready to [[execute]] the bidding of their [[Master Son|beloved Sovereign]].

168:1.11 When [[Jesus]] [[spoke]] those [[words]] of command, " Take away the stone, "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]  the assembled [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_39 celestial hosts] made ready to enact the [[drama]] of the [[resurrection]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] in the likeness of his [[mortal]] [[flesh]]. Such a form of [[resurrection]] involves [[difficulties]] of [[execution]] which far [[transcend]] the usual [[technique]] of the [[resurrection]] of [[mortal]] [[creatures]] in [[morontia]] form and requires far more [[celestial]] [[personalities]] and a far greater [[organization]] of [[universe]] facilities.

168:1.11 When [[Jesus]] [[spoke]] those [[words]] of command, " Take away the stone, "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]  the assembled [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_39 celestial hosts] made ready to enact the [[drama]] of the [[resurrection]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] in the likeness of his [[mortal]] [[flesh]]. Such a form of [[resurrection]] involves [[difficulties]] of [[execution]] which far [[transcend]] the usual [[technique]] of the [[resurrection]] of [[mortal]] [[creatures]] in [[morontia]] form and requires far more [[celestial]] [[personalities]] and a far greater [[organization]] of [[universe]] facilities.

168:1.12 When [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] heard this command of [[Jesus]] directing that the stone in front of the [[tomb]] be rolled away, they were filled with [[conflicting]] [[emotions]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary Mary] [[hoped]] that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] was to be raised from the [[dead]], but [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha], while to some extent [[sharing]] her sister's [[faith]], was more [[exercised]] by the [[fear]] that Lazarus would not be presentable, in his [[appearance]], to [[Jesus]], [[the apostles]], and their [[friends]]. Said [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha]: " Must we roll away the stone? My [[brother]] has now been [[dead]] four days, so that by this time decay of the [[body]] has begun. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11] Martha also said this because she was not [[certain]] as to why [[the Master]] had requested that the stone be removed; she thought maybe [[Jesus]] wanted only to take one last look at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]. She was not settled and constant in her [[attitude]]. As they [[hesitated]] to roll away the stone, [[Jesus]] said: " Did I not tell you at the first that this [[sickness]] was not to the [[death]]? Have I not come to fulfill my [[promise]]? And after I came to you, did I not say that, if you would only [[believe]], you should see the [[glory]] of [[God]]? Wherefore do you [[doubt]]? How long before you will [[believe]] and [[obey]]? "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]  

168:1.12 When [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] heard this command of [[Jesus]] directing that the stone in front of the [[tomb]] be rolled away, they were filled with [[conflicting]] [[emotions]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary Mary] [[hoped]] that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] was to be raised from the [[dead]], but [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha], while to some extent [[sharing]] her sister's [[faith]], was more [[exercised]] by the [[fear]] that Lazarus would not be presentable, in his [[appearance]], to [[Jesus]], [[the apostles]], and their [[friends]]. Said [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha]: " Must we roll away the stone? My [[brother]] has now been [[dead]] four days, so that by this time decay of the [[body]] has begun. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11] Martha also said this because she was not [[certain]] as to why [[the Master]] had requested that the stone be removed; she thought maybe [[Jesus]] wanted only to take one last look at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]. She was not settled and constant in her [[attitude]]. As they [[hesitated]] to roll away the stone, [[Jesus]] said: " Did I not tell you at the first that this [[sickness]] was not to the [[death]]? Have I not come to fulfill my [[promise]]? And after I came to you, did I not say that, if you would only [[believe]], you should see the [[glory]] of [[God]]? Wherefore do you [[doubt]]? How long before you will [[believe]] and [[obey]]? "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]  

168:1.13 When [[Jesus]] had finished [[speaking]], his [[apostles]], with the assistance of willing [[neighbors]], laid hold upon the stone and rolled it away from the entrance to the [[tomb]].

168:1.13 When [[Jesus]] had finished [[speaking]], his [[apostles]], with the assistance of willing [[neighbors]], laid hold upon the stone and rolled it away from the entrance to the [[tomb]].

168:1.14 It was the [[common]] [[belief]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews the Jews] that the drop of gall on the point of the sword of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azrael angel of death] began to work by the end of the third day, so that it was taking full [[effect]] on the fourth day. They allowed that the [[soul]] of man might linger about the [[tomb]] until the end of the third day, seeking to reanimate the [[dead]] [[body]]; but they firmly believed that such a [[soul]] had gone on to the abode of departed spirits ere the fourth day had [[dawn]]ed.

168:1.14 It was the [[common]] [[belief]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews the Jews] that the drop of gall on the point of the sword of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azrael angel of death] began to work by the end of the third day, so that it was taking full [[effect]] on the fourth day. They allowed that the [[soul]] of man might linger about the [[tomb]] until the end of the third day, seeking to reanimate the [[dead]] [[body]]; but they firmly believed that such a [[soul]] had gone on to the abode of departed spirits ere the fourth day had [[dawn]]ed.

168:1.15 These [[beliefs]] and [[opinions]] regarding the [[dead]] and the departure of the spirits of the dead served to make sure, in the [[minds]] of all who were now present at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s [[tomb]] and subsequently to all who might hear of what was about to occur, that this was really and truly a case of the raising of the [[dead]] by the personal working of one who [[declared]] he was " the [[resurrection]] and the life. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]

168:1.15 These [[beliefs]] and [[opinions]] regarding the [[dead]] and the departure of the spirits of the dead served to make sure, in the [[minds]] of all who were now present at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s [[tomb]] and subsequently to all who might hear of what was about to occur, that this was really and truly a case of the raising of the [[dead]] by the personal working of one who [[declared]] he was " the [[resurrection]] and the life. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]

==168:2. THE RESURRECTION OF LAZARUS==

==168:2. THE RESURRECTION OF LAZARUS==

168:2.1 As this company of some forty-five [[mortals]] stood before the [[tomb]], they could dimly see the [[form]] of http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], wrapped in linen bandages, resting on the right lower niche of the [[burial]] [[cave]]. While these [[earth]] [[creatures]] stood there in almost breathless [[silence]], a [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_37 vast host] of [[celestial]] [[beings]] had swung into their places [[preparatory]] to answering the [[signal]] for [[action]] when it should be given by [[Gabriel]], their commander.

168:2.1 As this company of some forty-five [[mortals]] stood before the [[tomb]], they could dimly see the [[form]] of https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], wrapped in linen bandages, resting on the right lower niche of the [[burial]] [[cave]]. While these [[earth]] [[creatures]] stood there in almost breathless [[silence]], a [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_37 vast host] of [[celestial]] [[beings]] had swung into their places [[preparatory]] to answering the [[signal]] for [[action]] when it should be given by [[Gabriel]], their commander.

168:2.2 [[Jesus]] lifted up his eyes and said: " [[the Father|Father]], I am [[thankful]] that you heard and granted my request. I know that you always hear me, but because of those who stand here with me, I thus [[speak]] with you, that they may [[believe]] that you have sent me into the world, and that they may [[know]] that you are working with me in that which we are about to do. " And when he had [[prayed]], he cried with a loud [[voice]], " [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], come forth! "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]

168:2.2 [[Jesus]] lifted up his eyes and said: " [[the Father|Father]], I am [[thankful]] that you heard and granted my request. I know that you always hear me, but because of those who stand here with me, I thus [[speak]] with you, that they may [[believe]] that you have sent me into the world, and that they may [[know]] that you are working with me in that which we are about to do. " And when he had [[prayed]], he cried with a loud [[voice]], " [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], come forth! "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]

168:2.3 Though these [[human]] [[observers]] remained [[Quiescent|motionless]], the vast [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_39 celestial host] was all astir in unified [[action]] in [[obedience]] to the [[Master Son|Creator]]'s [[word]]. In just twelve seconds of [[earth]] time the hitherto lifeless form of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] began to move and presently sat up on the edge of the stone shelf whereon it had [[rested]]. His [[body]] was bound about with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burial_cloth grave cloths], and his face was covered with a napkin. And as he stood up before them—alive—[[Jesus]] said, " Loose him and let him go. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]

168:2.3 Though these [[human]] [[observers]] remained [[Quiescent|motionless]], the vast [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_39 celestial host] was all astir in unified [[action]] in [[obedience]] to the [[Master Son|Creator]]'s [[word]]. In just twelve seconds of [[earth]] time the hitherto lifeless form of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] began to move and presently sat up on the edge of the stone shelf whereon it had [[rested]]. His [[body]] was bound about with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burial_cloth grave cloths], and his face was covered with a napkin. And as he stood up before them—alive—[[Jesus]] said, " Loose him and let him go. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]

168:2.4 All, save [[the apostles]], with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary], fled to the house. They were pale with [[fright]] and overcome with astonishment. While some tarried, many hastened to their [[homes]].

168:2.4 All, save [[the apostles]], with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary], fled to the house. They were pale with [[fright]] and overcome with astonishment. While some tarried, many hastened to their [[homes]].

168:2.5 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] greeted [[Jesus]] and [[the apostles]] and asked the [[meaning]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burial_cloth grave cloths] and why he had [[awakened]] in the [[garden]]. [[Jesus]] and [[the apostles]] drew to one side while [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] told [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] of his [[death]], [[burial]], and [[resurrection]]. She had to [[explain]] to him that he had died on Sunday and was now brought back to life on Thursday, inasmuch as he had had no [[consciousness]] of time since falling [[asleep]] in [[death]].

168:2.5 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] greeted [[Jesus]] and [[the apostles]] and asked the [[meaning]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burial_cloth grave cloths] and why he had [[awakened]] in the [[garden]]. [[Jesus]] and [[the apostles]] drew to one side while [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] told [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] of his [[death]], [[burial]], and [[resurrection]]. She had to [[explain]] to him that he had died on Sunday and was now brought back to life on Thursday, inasmuch as he had had no [[consciousness]] of time since falling [[asleep]] in [[death]].

168:2.6 As [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] came out of the [[tomb]], the [[Personalized Adjuster]] of [[Jesus]], now chief of his kind in this [[local universe]], gave command to the former [[Thought Adjuster|Adjuster]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], now in waiting, to resume abode in the [[mind]] and [[soul]] of the [[resurrected]] man.

168:2.6 As [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] came out of the [[tomb]], the [[Personalized Adjuster]] of [[Jesus]], now chief of his kind in this [[local universe]], gave command to the former [[Thought Adjuster|Adjuster]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], now in waiting, to resume abode in the [[mind]] and [[soul]] of the [[resurrected]] man.

168:2.7 Then went [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] over to [[Jesus]] and, with his sisters, knelt at [[the Master]]'s feet to give [[thanks]] and offer [[praise]] to [[God]]. [[Jesus]], taking [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] by the hand, lifted him up, saying: " My son, what has happened to you will also be [[experienced]] by all who [[believe]] this [[gospel]] except that they shall be [[resurrected]] in a more [[glorious]] [[form]]. You shall be a living [[witness]] of the [[truth]] which I [[spoke]]—I am the [[resurrection]] and the life. But let us all now go into the house and partake of nourishment for these [[physical]] [[bodies]]. "

168:2.7 Then went [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] over to [[Jesus]] and, with his sisters, knelt at [[the Master]]'s feet to give [[thanks]] and offer [[praise]] to [[God]]. [[Jesus]], taking [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] by the hand, lifted him up, saying: " My son, what has happened to you will also be [[experienced]] by all who [[believe]] this [[gospel]] except that they shall be [[resurrected]] in a more [[glorious]] [[form]]. You shall be a living [[witness]] of the [[truth]] which I [[spoke]]—I am the [[resurrection]] and the life. But let us all now go into the house and partake of nourishment for these [[physical]] [[bodies]]. "

168:2.8 As they walked toward the house, [[Gabriel]] dismissed the extra [[groups]] of the assembled [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_39 heavenly host] while he made [[record]] of the first instance on [[Urantia]], and the last, where a [[mortal]] [[creature]] had been [[resurrected]] in the likeness of the [[physical]] [[body]] of [[death]].

168:2.8 As they walked toward the house, [[Gabriel]] dismissed the extra [[groups]] of the assembled [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_39 heavenly host] while he made [[record]] of the first instance on [[Urantia]], and the last, where a [[mortal]] [[creature]] had been [[resurrected]] in the likeness of the [[physical]] [[body]] of [[death]].

168:2.9 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] could hardly [[comprehend]] what had occurred. He knew he had been very [[sick]], but he could recall only that he had fallen [[asleep]] and been [[awakened]]. He was never able to tell anything about these four days in the [[tomb]] because he was wholly [[unconscious]]. [[Time]] is nonexistent to those who [[sleep]] the sleep of [[death]].

168:2.9 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] could hardly [[comprehend]] what had occurred. He knew he had been very [[sick]], but he could recall only that he had fallen [[asleep]] and been [[awakened]]. He was never able to tell anything about these four days in the [[tomb]] because he was wholly [[unconscious]]. [[Time]] is nonexistent to those who [[sleep]] the sleep of [[death]].

168:2.10 Though many [[believed]] in [[Jesus]] as a result of this mighty [[work]], others only hardened their [[hearts]] the more to [[reject]] him. By noon the next day this [[story]] had spread over all [[Jerusalem]]. Scores of [[men]] and [[women]] went to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] to look upon [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] and talk with him, and the alarmed and disconcerted [[Pharisees]] hastily called a meeting of the [[Sanhedrin]] that they might determine what should be done about these new [[developments]].

168:2.10 Though many [[believed]] in [[Jesus]] as a result of this mighty [[work]], others only hardened their [[hearts]] the more to [[reject]] him. By noon the next day this [[story]] had spread over all [[Jerusalem]]. Scores of [[men]] and [[women]] went to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] to look upon [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] and talk with him, and the alarmed and disconcerted [[Pharisees]] hastily called a meeting of the [[Sanhedrin]] that they might determine what should be done about these new [[developments]].

==168:3. MEETING OF THE SANHEDRIN==

==168:3. MEETING OF THE SANHEDRIN==

168:3.1 Even though the [[testimony]] of this man raised from the [[dead]] did much to [[consolidate]] the [[faith]] of the mass of [[believers]] in the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]], it had little or no [[influence]] on the [[attitude]] of the [[religious]] [[leaders]] and rulers at [[Jerusalem]] except to hasten their [[decision]] to [[Murder|destroy]] [[Jesus]] and stop his [[work]].

168:3.1 Even though the [[testimony]] of this man raised from the [[dead]] did much to [[consolidate]] the [[faith]] of the mass of [[believers]] in the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]], it had little or no [[influence]] on the [[attitude]] of the [[religious]] [[leaders]] and rulers at [[Jerusalem]] except to hasten their [[decision]] to [[Murder|destroy]] [[Jesus]] and stop his [[work]].

168:3.2 At one o'clock the next day, Friday, the [[Sanhedrin]] met to deliberate further on the question, " What shall we do with [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]]? "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11] After more than two hours of [[discussion]] and acrimonious [[debate]], a certain [[Pharisee]] presented a resolution calling for [[Jesus]]' [[immediate]] [[death]], proclaiming that he was a menace to all [[Israel]] and [[formally]] [[committing]] the [[Sanhedrin]] to the [[decision]] of [[death]], without [[trial]] and in defiance of all precedent.

168:3.2 At one o'clock the next day, Friday, the [[Sanhedrin]] met to deliberate further on the question, " What shall we do with [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]]? "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11] After more than two hours of [[discussion]] and acrimonious [[debate]], a certain [[Pharisee]] presented a resolution calling for [[Jesus]]' [[immediate]] [[death]], proclaiming that he was a menace to all [[Israel]] and [[formally]] [[committing]] the [[Sanhedrin]] to the [[decision]] of [[death]], without [[trial]] and in defiance of all precedent.

168:3.3 [[Repetition|Time and again]] had this august body of [[Jewish]] [[leaders]] [[decreed]] that [[Jesus]] be [[apprehended]] and brought to [[trial]] on charges of [[blasphemy]] and numerous other [[accusations]] of flouting the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_law Jewish sacred law]. They had once before even gone so far as to [[declare]] he should die, but this was the first time the [[Sanhedrin]] had gone on [[record]] as [[desiring]] to [[decree]] his [[death]] in advance of a [[trial]]. But this resolution did not come to a [[vote]] since fourteen members of the [[Sanhedrin]] resigned in a body when such an unheard-of [[action]] was [[proposed]]. While these [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resignation resignations] were not formally acted upon for almost two weeks, this [[group]] of fourteen withdrew from the [[Sanhedrin]] on that day, never again to sit in the [[council]]. When these [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resignation resignations] were subsequently [[acted]] upon, five other members were thrown out because their [[associates]] [[believed]] they entertained [[friendly]] [[feelings]] toward [[Jesus]]. With the ejection of these nineteen men the [[Sanhedrin]] was in a position to try and to [[condemn]] [[Jesus]] with a [[solidarity]] bordering on [[unanimity]].

168:3.3 [[Repetition|Time and again]] had this august body of [[Jewish]] [[leaders]] [[decreed]] that [[Jesus]] be [[apprehended]] and brought to [[trial]] on charges of [[blasphemy]] and numerous other [[accusations]] of flouting the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_law Jewish sacred law]. They had once before even gone so far as to [[declare]] he should die, but this was the first time the [[Sanhedrin]] had gone on [[record]] as [[desiring]] to [[decree]] his [[death]] in advance of a [[trial]]. But this resolution did not come to a [[vote]] since fourteen members of the [[Sanhedrin]] resigned in a body when such an unheard-of [[action]] was [[proposed]]. While these [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resignation resignations] were not formally acted upon for almost two weeks, this [[group]] of fourteen withdrew from the [[Sanhedrin]] on that day, never again to sit in the [[council]]. When these [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resignation resignations] were subsequently [[acted]] upon, five other members were thrown out because their [[associates]] [[believed]] they entertained [[friendly]] [[feelings]] toward [[Jesus]]. With the ejection of these nineteen men the [[Sanhedrin]] was in a position to try and to [[condemn]] [[Jesus]] with a [[solidarity]] bordering on [[unanimity]].

168:3.4 The following week [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] and his sisters were [[summoned]] to appear before the [[Sanhedrin]]. When their [[testimony]] had been heard, no [[doubt]] could be entertained that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] had been raised from the [[dead]]. Though the [[transactions]] of the [[Sanhedrin]] virtually admitted the [[resurrection]] of Lazarus, the [[record]] carried a [[resolution]] attributing this and all other [[wonders]] worked by [[Jesus]] to the [[power]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beezlebub prince of devils], with whom [[Jesus]] was [[declared]] to be in league.

168:3.4 The following week [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] and his sisters were [[summoned]] to appear before the [[Sanhedrin]]. When their [[testimony]] had been heard, no [[doubt]] could be entertained that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] had been raised from the [[dead]]. Though the [[transactions]] of the [[Sanhedrin]] virtually admitted the [[resurrection]] of Lazarus, the [[record]] carried a [[resolution]] attributing this and all other [[wonders]] worked by [[Jesus]] to the [[power]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beezlebub prince of devils], with whom [[Jesus]] was [[declared]] to be in league.

168:3.5 No matter what the [[source]] of his [[wonder]]-working [[power]], these Jewish [[leaders]] were persuaded that, if he were not [[immediately]] stopped, very soon all the common people would [[believe]] in him; and further, that serious [[complications]] with the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Empire#Government Roman authorities] would arise since so many of his [[believers]] regarded him as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_messianism the Messiah], [[Israel]]'s deliverer.

168:3.5 No matter what the [[source]] of his [[wonder]]-working [[power]], these Jewish [[leaders]] were persuaded that, if he were not [[immediately]] stopped, very soon all the common people would [[believe]] in him; and further, that serious [[complications]] with the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Empire#Government Roman authorities] would arise since so many of his [[believers]] regarded him as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_messianism the Messiah], [[Israel]]'s deliverer.

168:3.6 It was at this same meeting of the [[Sanhedrin]] that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caiaphas Caiaphas] the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_High_Priests_of_Israel high priest] first gave [[expression]] to that old Jewish adage, which he so many times [[repeated]]: " It is better that one man die, than that the [[community]] perish. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]

168:3.6 It was at this same meeting of the [[Sanhedrin]] that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caiaphas Caiaphas] the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_High_Priests_of_Israel high priest] first gave [[expression]] to that old Jewish adage, which he so many times [[repeated]]: " It is better that one man die, than that the [[community]] perish. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_11]

168:3.7 Although [[Jesus]] had [[received]] [[warning]] of the doings of the [[Sanhedrin]] on this dark Friday afternoon, he was not in the least perturbed and continued [[resting]] over the [[Sabbath]] with [[friends]] in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethpage Bethpage], a hamlet near [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. Early Sunday morning [[Jesus]] and [[the apostles]] assembled, by prearrangement, at the [[home]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], and taking leave of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] [[family]], they started on their [[journey]] back to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pella,_Jordan Pella] encampment.

168:3.7 Although [[Jesus]] had [[received]] [[warning]] of the doings of the [[Sanhedrin]] on this dark Friday afternoon, he was not in the least perturbed and continued [[resting]] over the [[Sabbath]] with [[friends]] in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethpage Bethpage], a hamlet near [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. Early Sunday morning [[Jesus]] and [[the apostles]] assembled, by prearrangement, at the [[home]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], and taking leave of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] [[family]], they started on their [[journey]] back to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pella,_Jordan Pella] encampment.

==168:4. THE ANSWER TO PRAYER==

==168:4. THE ANSWER TO PRAYER==

168:4.1 On the way from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pella,_Jordan Pella] [[the apostles]] asked [[Jesus]] many [[questions]], all of which [[the Master]] freely answered [[except]] those involving the details of the [[resurrection]] of the [[dead]]. Such [[problems]] were beyond the [[comprehension]] [[capacity]] of his [[apostles]]; therefore did [[the Master]] decline to [[discuss]] these questions with them. Since they had departed from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] in [[secret]], they were [[alone]]. [[Jesus]] therefore [[embraced]] the [[opportunity]] to say many things to the ten which he [[thought]] would [[prepare]] them for the trying days just ahead.

168:4.1 On the way from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pella,_Jordan Pella] [[the apostles]] asked [[Jesus]] many [[questions]], all of which [[the Master]] freely answered [[except]] those involving the details of the [[resurrection]] of the [[dead]]. Such [[problems]] were beyond the [[comprehension]] [[capacity]] of his [[apostles]]; therefore did [[the Master]] decline to [[discuss]] these questions with them. Since they had departed from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] in [[secret]], they were [[alone]]. [[Jesus]] therefore [[embraced]] the [[opportunity]] to say many things to the ten which he [[thought]] would [[prepare]] them for the trying days just ahead.

168:4.2 [[The apostles]] were much stirred up in their [[minds]] and spent considerable [[time]] [[discussing]] their recent [[experiences]] as they were related to [[prayer]] and its answering. They all recalled [[Jesus]]' [[statement]] to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] [[messenger]] at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amman Philadelphia], when he said plainly, " This [[sickness]] is not really to the [[death]]. " And yet, in spite of this [[promise]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] actually died. All that day, again and again, they reverted to the [[discussion]] of this [[question]] of the answer to [[prayer]].

168:4.2 [[The apostles]] were much stirred up in their [[minds]] and spent considerable [[time]] [[discussing]] their recent [[experiences]] as they were related to [[prayer]] and its answering. They all recalled [[Jesus]]' [[statement]] to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] [[messenger]] at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amman Philadelphia], when he said plainly, " This [[sickness]] is not really to the [[death]]. " And yet, in spite of this [[promise]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] actually died. All that day, again and again, they reverted to the [[discussion]] of this [[question]] of the answer to [[prayer]].

168:4.3 [[Jesus]]' answers to their many questions may be summarized as follows:

168:4.3 [[Jesus]]' answers to their many questions may be summarized as follows:

*1. 168:4.4 [[Prayer]] is an [[expression]] of the [[finite]] [[mind]] in an [[effort]] to approach the [[Infinite]]. The making of a [[prayer]] must, therefore, be [[limited]] by the [[knowledge]], [[wisdom]], and [[attributes]] of the [[finite]]; likewise must the answer be conditioned by the [[vision]], aims, [[ideals]], and [[prerogatives]] of the [[Infinite]]. There never can be [[observed]] an unbroken [[continuity]] of [[material]] [[phenomena]] between the making of a [[prayer]] and the [[reception]] of the full spiritual answer thereto.

*1. 168:4.4 [[Prayer]] is an [[expression]] of the [[finite]] [[mind]] in an [[effort]] to approach the [[Infinite]]. The making of a [[prayer]] must, therefore, be [[limited]] by the [[knowledge]], [[wisdom]], and [[attributes]] of the [[finite]]; likewise must the answer be conditioned by the [[vision]], aims, [[ideals]], and [[prerogatives]] of the [[Infinite]]. There never can be [[observed]] an unbroken [[continuity]] of [[material]] [[phenomena]] between the making of a [[prayer]] and the [[reception]] of the full spiritual answer thereto.

*2. 168:4.5 When a [[prayer]] is apparently unanswered, the [[delay]] often betokens a better answer, although one which is for some [[good]] reason greatly delayed. When [[Jesus]] said that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s [[sickness]] was really not to the [[death]], he had already been dead eleven hours. No [[sincere]] [[prayer]] is denied an answer except when the superior [[viewpoint]] of the [[spiritual]] world has devised a better answer, an answer which meets the [[petition]] of the [[spirit]] of man as [[contrasted]] with the prayer of the mere [[mind]] of man.

*2. 168:4.5 When a [[prayer]] is apparently unanswered, the [[delay]] often betokens a better answer, although one which is for some [[good]] reason greatly delayed. When [[Jesus]] said that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s [[sickness]] was really not to the [[death]], he had already been dead eleven hours. No [[sincere]] [[prayer]] is denied an answer except when the superior [[viewpoint]] of the [[spiritual]] world has devised a better answer, an answer which meets the [[petition]] of the [[spirit]] of man as [[contrasted]] with the prayer of the mere [[mind]] of man.

*3. 168:4.6 The [[prayers]] of [[time]], when indited by the [[spirit]] and [[expressed]] in [[faith]], are often so vast and all-[[encompassing]] that they can be answered only in [[eternity]]; the [[finite]] [[petition]] is sometimes so fraught with the grasp of the [[Infinite]] that the answer must long be postponed to await the [[creation]] of adequate [[capacity]] for [receptivity]; the [[prayer]] of [[faith]] may be so all-embracing that the answer can be received only on [[Paradise]].

*3. 168:4.6 The [[prayers]] of [[time]], when indited by the [[spirit]] and [[expressed]] in [[faith]], are often so vast and all-[[encompassing]] that they can be answered only in [[eternity]]; the [[finite]] [[petition]] is sometimes so fraught with the grasp of the [[Infinite]] that the answer must long be postponed to await the [[creation]] of adequate [[capacity]] for [receptivity]; the [[prayer]] of [[faith]] may be so all-embracing that the answer can be received only on [[Paradise]].

*4. 168:4.7 The answers to the [[prayer]] of the [[mortal]] [[mind]] are often of such a [[nature]] that they can be [[received]] and [[recognized]] only after that same praying [[mind]] has [[attained]] the [[immortal]] state. The [[prayer]] of the [[material]] [[being]] can many times be answered only when such an [[individual]] has [[progressed]] to the [[spirit]] level.

*4. 168:4.7 The answers to the [[prayer]] of the [[mortal]] [[mind]] are often of such a [[nature]] that they can be [[received]] and [[recognized]] only after that same praying [[mind]] has [[attained]] the [[immortal]] state. The [[prayer]] of the [[material]] [[being]] can many times be answered only when such an [[individual]] has [[progressed]] to the [[spirit]] level.

*8. 168:4.11 The child is always within his [[rights]] when he [[presumes]] to [[petition]] the [[parent]]; and the parent is always within his parental [[obligations]] to the immature child when his superior [[wisdom]] [[dictates]] that the answer to the child's prayer be [[delayed]], [[modified]], [[segregated]], [[transcended]], or postponed to another [[stage]] of [[Ascension Career|spiritual ascension]].

*8. 168:4.11 The child is always within his [[rights]] when he [[presumes]] to [[petition]] the [[parent]]; and the parent is always within his parental [[obligations]] to the immature child when his superior [[wisdom]] [[dictates]] that the answer to the child's prayer be [[delayed]], [[modified]], [[segregated]], [[transcended]], or postponed to another [[stage]] of [[Ascension Career|spiritual ascension]].

*9. 168:4.12 Do not [[hesitate]] to [[pray]] the prayers of spirit longing; [[doubt]] not that you shall [[receive]] the answer to your [[petitions]]. These answers will be on deposit, awaiting your [[achievement]] of those [[future]] spiritual levels of [[actual]] [[cosmic]] [[attainment]], on this world or on others, whereon it will become possible for you to [[recognize]] and appropriate the long-waiting answers to your earlier but ill-timed [[petitions]].

*9. 168:4.12 Do not [[hesitate]] to [[pray]] the prayers of spirit longing; [[doubt]] not that you shall [[receive]] the answer to your [[petitions]]. These answers will be on deposit, awaiting your [[achievement]] of those [[future]] spiritual levels of [[actual]] [[cosmic]] [[attainment]], on this world or on others, whereon it will become possible for you to [[recognize]] and appropriate the long-waiting answers to your earlier but ill-timed [[petitions]].

*10. 168:4.13 All genuine spirit-born [[petitions]] are certain of an answer. Ask and you shall [[receive]].[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_7] But you should [[remember]] that you are [[progressive]] [[creatures]] of [[time and space]]; therefore must you constantly reckon with the [[time-space]] [[factor]] in the [[experience]] of your [[personal]] [[reception]] of the full answers to your manifold [[prayers]] and [[petitions]].

*10. 168:4.13 All genuine spirit-born [[petitions]] are certain of an answer. Ask and you shall [[receive]].[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_7] But you should [[remember]] that you are [[progressive]] [[creatures]] of [[time and space]]; therefore must you constantly reckon with the [[time-space]] [[factor]] in the [[experience]] of your [[personal]] [[reception]] of the full answers to your manifold [[prayers]] and [[petitions]].

==168:5. WHAT BECAME OF LAZARUS==

==168:5. WHAT BECAME OF LAZARUS==

168:5.1 Lazarus remained at the Bethany home, being the center of great interest to many sincere believers and to numerous curious individuals, until the day of the crucifixion of Jesus, when he received warning that the Sanhedrin had decreed his death. The rulers of the Jews were determined to put a stop to the further spread of the teachings of Jesus, and they well judged that it would be useless to put Jesus to death if they permitted Lazarus, who represented the very peak of his wonder-working, to live and bear testimony to the fact that Jesus had raised him from the dead. Already had Lazarus suffered bitter persecution from them.

168:5.1 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] remained at the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] [[home]], being the [[center]] of great interest to many [[sincere]] [[believers]] and to numerous [[curious]] [[individuals]], until the day of the [[crucifixion]] of [[Jesus]], when he [[received]] [[warning]] that the [[Sanhedrin]] had [[decreed]] his [[death]]. The rulers of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews] were [[determined]] to put a stop to the further spread of the [[teachings]] of [[Jesus]], and they well [[judged]] that it would be useless to put [[Jesus]] to [[death]] if they permitted [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], who [[represented]] the very peak of his [[wonder]]-working, to live and bear [[testimony]] to the [[fact]] that Jesus had raised him from the [[dead]]. Already had [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] [[suffered]] bitter [[persecution]] from them.

168:5.2 And so Lazarus took hasty leave of his sisters at Bethany, fleeing down through Jericho and across the Jordan, never permitting himself to rest long until he had reached Philadelphia. Lazarus knew Abner well, and here he felt safe from the murderous intrigues of the wicked Sanhedrin.

168:5.2 And so [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] took hasty leave of his sisters at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany], fleeing down through [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jericho Jericho] and across the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_river Jordan], never [[permitting]] himself to [[rest]] long until he had reached [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amman Philadelphia]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] knew [[Abner]] well, and here he felt safe from the [[murder]]ous [[intrigue]]s of the [[wicked]] [[Sanhedrin]].

168:5.3 Soon after this Martha and Mary disposed of their lands at Bethany and joined their brother in Perea. Meantime, Lazarus had become the treasurer of the church at Philadelphia. He became a strong supporter of Abner in his controversy with Paul and the Jerusalem church and ultimately died, when 67 years old, of the same sickness that carried him off when he was a younger man at Bethany.

168:5.3 Soon after this [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] disposed of their [[lands]] at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] and joined their [[brother]] in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perea_(Holy_Land) Perea]. Meantime, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] had become the [[treasurer]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_church church at Philadelphia]. He became a strong supporter of [[Abner]] in his [[controversy]] with [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]] and the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_centers_of_Christianity Jerusalem church] and ultimately died, when 67 years old, of the same [[sickness]] that carried him off when he was a younger man at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany].

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[[Category: PART IV: The Life and Teachings of Jesus]]

[[Category: PART IV: The Life and Teachings of Jesus]]