DESIRE OF AGES: Audio & Pull Quotes- Chapter 58

Lazarus,Come Forth

Audio:
https://www.youtube.com/embed/ufQiFAUkzT8?list=PL4ByrircmXL6qt2QplU6IudoOYVgzBS3C

Had Christ been in the sickroom, Lazarus would not have died; for Satan would have had no power

over him. Death could not have aimed his dart at Lazarus in the presence of the Life-giver. Therefore Christ remained away. He suffered the enemy to exercise his power, that He might drive him back, a conquered foe. He permitted Lazarus to pass under the dominion of death; and the suffering sisters saw their brother laid in the grave.
When the Lord is about to do a work, Satan moves upon someone to object. Take ye away the stone, Christ said. (John 11:39) As far as possible, prepare the way for My work. But Martha's positive and ambitious nature asserted itself. She was unwilling that the decomposing body should be brought to view.
The command is obeyed. The stone is rolled away. Everything is done openly and deliberately. All are given a chance to see that no deception is practiced. There lies the body of Lazarus in its rocky grave, cold and silent in death.
He cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth. (John 11:43) His voice, clear and penetrating, pierces the ear of the dead. There is a stir in the silent tomb, and he who was dead stands at the door of the sepulcher.