Friends of Jesus - Delays Are Not Denials

About this episode

Pastor Joe discusses Jesus' friendship with Lazarus and the significance of delays in God's timing.

On Palm Sunday, Pastor Joe continues the Friends of Jesus series by looking at Jesus’ friendship with Lazarus and what it reveals about the heart of Christ. In John 11, we see that Jesus is not a transactional or distant friend, but a real friend—one who loves deeply, knows when to stay, knows when to go, and leans into our sorrow. This message reminds us that God’s delays are not His denials. Even in seasons of silence, grief, and waiting, Jesus is still at work for a greater glory. As we enter Holy Week, we’re invited to bring our laments to Him, trust His timing, and remember that we never suffer alone. Jesus is the friend who comes near in our pain and leads us with love all the way to the cross—and beyond.

People in this episode

Host: Joe

Topics covered

• friendship
• faith
• grief
• Holy Week
• trust

Keywords

• Palm Sunday
• Jesus
• Lazarus
• sorrow
• greater glory

More episodes of Riverbend Community Church Podcasts

• Friends of Jesus - Sitting at the Feet of Jesus · March 30, 2026
• Friends of Jesus - Life Giving Friendships · March 30, 2026
• Friends of Jesus - Finding Friendship In the Way of Jesus · March 30, 2026
• “Love Descends” (Isaiah 56:1–8) · March 30, 2026
• Journey to Bethlehem - Joseph and Mary’s Response · December 9, 2025
• Riverbend Gathering - November 30th 2025 · December 1, 2025