On Account Of Him

But the chief priests plotted to put Lazarus to death also, because on account of hi many of the Jews went away and believed in Jesus.

John 12:10-11

Poor Lazarus could not catch a break. He had been gravely ill, died, and been raised from the dead by Christ. That was a wonderful result, and he had a tremendous testimony. Because he had been the object of this miracle, as our text points out, ‘many of the Jews went away and believed in Jesus.’ This did not suit the Pharisees and Sadducees at all. They had already begun to plot the death of Jesus. At this point, they were actively looking for Him to seize Him. To that they added that they would kill Lazarus as well because his testimony was influencing others to believe  Jesus. Thus, he became the object of their plot. This kind of persecution has continued throughout the centuries. It occurs today. The book of Acts relates the persecution the Apostles experienced because of their association with Jesus. Paul details for us his own experiences of opposition and suffering as the result of his testimony for Christ. The Apostles died for their proclamation of Christ. Throughout the centuries believers have been persecuted, tortured, and put to death, because of their association with Christ. We are not surprised when it happens. We may endure it ourselves. It is something that is part of our history and an association of which we are not ashamed.

Our Glorious, Living Christ,
we rejoice that You have made us Your people.
We praise You that we have
the privilege of suffering with You.

Tomm Tice
Where the Bush is Burning