A Clay Jar

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Take off the Grave Clothes

John 11:43-44

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When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face.
Jesus said to them, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.”

John 11:43-44 NIV

Lazarus was dead and buried. Four days later, Jesus came, told the family to open the tomb, and then called Lazarus to come out of the grave. It was a powerful miracle that led many of those who witnessed it to believe in Jesus.

This miracle also serves as a demonstration of what happens to everyone who comes to faith. We were dead in our sin, separated from the life of God. But Jesus called us to come out of the grave, giving us new life in him.

When we came out of the grave, we were expected to shed the grave clothes, the sinful practices and attitudes that were a part of our lives when we were dead. And then be clothed anew with garments of righteousness.

Lazarus’ grave clothes were shed completely when he came out of the grave. Ours often take much longer to shed. But we should never be content to walk around in the filthy rags that characterized our lives when we were dead in sin. Leave that old life behind and put on the garments of righteousness that our Lord holds out for us. And live the holy life we are called to live.

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Ed Jarrett

Just an old clay jar that God continues to see fit to use in his kingdom's work. I am retired, married with 2 children, and 4 grandchildren. I have followed Jesus for many years. And I love to share what He has given me from His word.

A Note to Readers

The views expressed here are solely mine and do not necessarily reflect those of any other person, group, or organization. While I believe they reflect the teachings of the Bible, I am a fallible human and subject to misunderstanding. Please feel free to leave any comments or questions about this post in the comments section below. I am always interested in your feedback.

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