How does the story of Lazarus illustrate sovereign grace?

The account of Lazarus in John 11 serves as a powerful illustration of sovereign grace—the doctrine that emphasizes God's control and choice in salvation. When Jesus called Lazarus forth from the grave, it was a clear display of His power and authority over life and death. The delayed response of Jesus suggests that He had a divine purpose to reveal His glory and strengthen the faith of His followers. Lazarus's resurrection signifies the spiritual resurrection believers experience when God calls them from their deadness in sin to new life. The sovereign grace of God is essential for true regeneration, echoing the teachings of Ephesians 2:4-5, which states that God, being rich in mercy, has made us alive together with Christ.