Question
Gramps,
Was Lazarus the first to be resurrected?
Robert
Answer
Robert,
The question of whether Lazarus was the first person to be resurrected is a topic of considerable interest and debate within the context of Latter-day Saint (LDS) beliefs. To fully understand this issue, we need to explore the definitions of resurrection, the events surrounding Lazarus’ experience, and the doctrinal teachings of the Church regarding resurrection.
In LDS theology, resurrection is defined as the reuniting of a spirit and a glorified, immortal body, never to be separated again. This is a crucial distinction, as resurrection is not simply returning to life in a mortal sense, which is what happened to Lazarus. As stated in the scriptures, “the resurrection of the dead… being the first that should rise” (2 Nephi 2:8), emphasizes the eternal nature of resurrection as opposed to mere revival.
Lazarus, a close friend of Jesus Christ, was raised from the dead after being in the tomb for four days (John 11:1-44). However, it’s important to note that this act was a return to mortal life rather than a resurrection. Lazarus was revived to his mortal state and eventually died again. This underscores the crucial distinction between being revived and being resurrected.
LDS Church leaders clarify this distinction. In a response on Ask Gramps, it is explained: “In the miracle of bringing Lazarus back to life, he was not resurrected. He was just made to live again as a mortal. There was no change in the physical nature of his body, and so at some point, he would have died again” (Ask Gramps).
According to LDS doctrine, Jesus Christ is considered the first person to be resurrected. His resurrection involved a transformation of His body into a glorified, immortal state (1 Corinthians 15:20). This event is central to Christian faith as it symbolizes victory over death. The resurrection of Christ is seen not only as His own triumph but as the foundation for the resurrection of all humanity.
The New Testament recounts that “many bodies of the saints which slept arose” after Christ’s resurrection (Matthew 27:52-53). This indicates that the resurrection of others was contingent upon Christ’s own resurrection, further emphasizing that Lazarus, while raised from the dead, was not the first to be resurrected.
Moreover, the Book of Mormon reinforces this doctrine, stating, “the resurrection of the dead… being the first that should rise” (2 Nephi 2:8), reiterating that Christ’s resurrection is foundational to resurrection for all.
Church leaders have consistently taught that while Jesus had the power to raise Lazarus, this was an act of revival, not resurrection. Those who were resurrected after Christ’s resurrection possessed glorified bodies, free from the possibility of death, unlike Lazarus who returned to his mortal state.
Gramps
