A Harmony of the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John

(The Story of the Person, Mission, and Message of Jesus)

1Co 15:1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;

1Co 15:2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.

1Co 15:3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;

1Co 15:4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:

Introduction

Luke's Introduction  

Though none claim it, let's take it on faith that all four writers had divine guidance. Matthew and John were without a doubt first hand eye witnesses and maybe so also was Mark.  Luke tells us right off the bat that all his information is second hand.

Luke Luk 1:1 Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us, Luk 1:2 Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word; Luk 1:3 It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus, Luk 1:4 That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.   Who were these "eyewitnesses"?  When and where did Luke have the considerable opportunity to quiz them? He doesn't seem to claim inspiration from the Holy Spirit but rather direct word of mouth from apostles or disciples who were with Jesus from the beginning of his earthly ministry.

Pre-fleshly state of Christ

John, in these opening verses of his gospel, leaves nothing back for later in his revelation of the person and work of Jesus. Joh 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Joh 1:3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. Joh 1:6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. Joh 1:11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not. Joh 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Joh 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. If we know Jesus, we know  as much as our human brain can know of the Creator of ourselves and the physical universe we live in.  If we follow his light, we do as much as humanly possible to live with Him and His Father forever.

John Joh 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Joh 1:2 The same was in the beginning with God. Joh 1:3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. Joh 1:4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. Joh 1:5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. Joh 1:6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. Joh 1:7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. Joh 1:8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. Joh 1:9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. Joh 1:10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. Joh 1:11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not. Joh 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Joh 1:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. Joh 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. Joh 1:15 John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me. Joh 1:16 And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. Joh 1:17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. Joh 1:18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.   John in Chapter 1:13 talks of four possible "births": of blood, will of the flesh, will of man, and of God. Joh 1:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. In John3:6 Joh 3:6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  Jesus mentions "born of water", "of the spirit" and "born of flesh". The one that matters most is no doubt "born of God" and that must be the same as "of the Spirit." That happens to "whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ" 1Jn 5:1 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him. How to sort out the other three "births" is something of a puzzle.  I had thought that one was the actual physical birth from the womb, two was at repentance and a water baptism (i.e. John the Baptist's mission); but how to prove it?!

Genealogy of Jesus Christ

Matthew Luke Mat 1:1  The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Mat 1:2  Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas and his brethren; Mat 1:3  And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom; and Esrom begat Aram; Mat 1:4  And Aram begat Aminadab; and Aminadab begat Naasson; and Naasson begat Salmon; Mat 1:5  And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse; Mat 1:6  And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias; Mat 1:7  And Solomon begat Roboam; and Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa; Mat 1:8  And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias; Mat 1:9  And Ozias begat Joatham; and Joatham begat Achaz; and Achaz begat Ezekias; Mat 1:10  And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat Josias; Mat 1:11  And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they were carried away to Babylon: Mat 1:12  And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel; and Salathiel begat Zorobabel; Mat 1:13  And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim begat Azor; Mat 1:14  And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud; Mat 1:15  And Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat Jacob; Mat 1:16  And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. Mat 1:17  So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations.   Luk 3:23  And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was the son of Heli, Luk 3:24  Which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi, which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Janna, which was the son of Joseph, Luk 3:25  Which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Amos, which was the son of Naum, which was the son of Esli, which was the son of Nagge, Luk 3:26  Which was the son of Maath, which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Semei, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Juda, Luk 3:27  Which was the son of Joanna, which was the son of Rhesa, which was the son of Zorobabel, which was the son of Salathiel, which was the son of Neri, Luk 3:28  Which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Addi, which was the son of Cosam, which was the son of Elmodam, which was the son of Er, Luk 3:29  Which was the son of Jose, which was the son of Eliezer, which was the son of Jorim, which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi, Luk 3:30  Which was the son of Simeon, which was the son of Juda, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Jonan, which was the son of Eliakim, Luk 3:31  Which was the son of Melea, which was the son of Menan, which was the son of Mattatha, which was the son of Nathan, which was the son of David, Luk 3:32  Which was the son of Jesse, which was the son of Obed, which was the son of Booz, which was the son of Salmon, which was the son of Naasson, Luk 3:33  Which was the son of Aminadab, which was the son of Aram, which was the son of Esrom, which was the son of Phares, which was the son of Juda, Luk 3:34  Which was the son of Jacob, which was the son of Isaac, which was the son of Abraham, which was the son of Thara, which was the son of Nachor, Luk 3:35  Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragau, which was the son of Phalec, which was the son of Heber, which was the son of Sala, Luk 3:36  Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the son of Sem, which was the son of Noe, which was the son of Lamech, Luk 3:37  Which was the son of Mathusala, which was the son of Enoch, which was the son of Jared, which was the son of Maleleel, which was the son of Cainan, Luk 3:38  Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam, which was the son of God.   If you do the math, it seems hard for any of us to escape from being a descendent of William the Conqueror; and like-wise any Jew of Jesus' time to not be related to David and in all certainty be related directly to Abraham. But why must Jesus' grandfather be named "Heli" by Luke and "Jacob" by Matthew.  It would seem this fact could have been cleared up by either writer by quizzing Mary herself or one of Jesus' sisters or brothers. The actual wording of the Gospel writers seem at odds with the commentary writers who claim "Heli" was the father of Mary.

Birth and Early Life of Jesus and John the Baptist

7 B.C. - Jerusalem (Temple) - Announcement of Birth of John

Luke Luk 1:5  There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. Luk 1:6  And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. Luk 1:7  And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years. Luk 1:8  And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course, Luk 1:9  According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. Luk 1:10  And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense. Luk 1:11  And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. Luk 1:12  And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. Luk 1:13  But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. Luk 1:14  And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth. Luk 1:15  For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb. Luk 1:16  And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. Luk 1:17  And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. Luk 1:18  And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years. Luk 1:19  And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings. Luk 1:20  And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season. Luk 1:21  And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the temple. Luk 1:22  And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless. Luk 1:23  And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his ministration were accomplished, he departed to his own house. Luk 1:24  And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying, Luk 1:25  Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men.   It would seem Zacharias and Elizabeth being both "righteous before God" and "blameless" would contradict the theory I have been told that "all our righteous nesses are like filthy rags".

7 or 6 B.C. Nazareth - Announcement of Birth of Jesus to the Virgin

There is no hint in Luke 1:32-33 that the "throne" is in a spiritual sense rather than an actual worldly sense; a new Israel set free from Roman rule. If the angel had been a little more clear, the followers of Jesus might have been saved a let down and better able to make an informed choice to follow Jesus when asked to do so. Luk 1:32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: Luk 1:33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.

Luke   Luk 1:26  And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, Luk 1:27  To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. Luk 1:28  And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. Luk 1:29  And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. Luk 1:30  And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. Luk 1:31  And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. Luk 1:32  He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: Luk 1:33  And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. Luk 1:34  Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? Luk 1:35  And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. Luk 1:36  And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. Luk 1:37  For with God nothing shall be impossible. Luk 1:38  And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her. There is no hint in Luke 1:32-33 Luk 1:32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: Luk 1:33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. that the "throne" is in a spiritual sense rather than an actual worldly sense; a new Israel set free from Roman rule. If the angel had been a little more clear, the followers of Jesus might have been saved a let down and better able to make an informed choice to follow Jesus when asked to do so.

c. 5 B.C. - Hill Country of Judah - Song of Elizabeth to Mary

Luke   Luk 1:39  And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda; Luk 1:40  And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth. Luk 1:41  And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost: Luk 1:42  And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. Luk 1:43  And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? Luk 1:44  For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Luk 1:45  And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord. Luke 1:45 Luk 1:45 And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord. as I read it, implies that the birth of Jesus depended in or to some extent upon Mary's belief. If her reaction to the message from the angel had been "get out of here with your foolishness", would that have queered the deal?  I would think so.  We all have free will.  Mary did have a choice, otherwise why "blessed is she that believed"? Also how does the extent of her belief at this time reconcile with its extent thirty some years later in the event where she and her other children seek audience with Jesus and don't come up to snuff? Luk 8:19 Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for the press. Luk 8:20 And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee. Luk 8:21 And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.

c. 5 B.C. - Hill Country of Judah - Mary’s Song of Praise

Luke   Luk 1:46  And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, Luk 1:47  And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. Luk 1:48  For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Luk 1:49  For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. Luk 1:50  And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation. Luk 1:51  He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. Luk 1:52  He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. Luk 1:53  He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. Luk 1:54  He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy; Luk 1:55  As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever. Luk 1:56  And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.

5 B.C. - Judea - Birth, Infancy  and Purpose for Future of John the Baptist

Luke   Luk 1:57  Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son. Luk 1:58  And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her. Luk 1:59  And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father. Luk 1:60  And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John. Luk 1:61  And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name. Luk 1:62  And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called. Luk 1:63  And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all. Luk 1:64  And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God. Luk 1:65  And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea. Luk 1:66  And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him. Luk 1:67  And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying, Luk 1:68  Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people, Luk 1:69  And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David; Luk 1:70  As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began: Luk 1:71  That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; Luk 1:72  To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant; Luk 1:73  The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, Luk 1:74  That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear, Luk 1:75  In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life. Luk 1:76  And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; Luk 1:77  To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, Luk 1:78  Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, Luk 1:79  To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. Luk 1:80  And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel. This explanation of one commentator as to why "they made signs to his father", (Zack being merely dumb and not struck also deaf) is rather lame: ..who (Zacharias) was deaf, as well as dumb; otherwise there would have been no occasion to have signs made to him.. If a commentator has no reasonable guess, wouldn't we be better off if he just said so

5 B.C. Nazareth - Announcement of Jesus Birth to Joseph

Hard to tell from this passage if  Joseph was asleep the whole time of the visit. The message leaves no doubt that Jesus was conceived by God the Holy Ghost but leaves in doubt the person of Jesus and how He was to perform His mission.  We know from hindsight what Joseph could only guess - Jesus was and is God and He would furnish the salvation of his people (and us gentiles too) by His sacrifice on the cross. Mat 1:20  But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. Mat 1:21  And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Mat 1:22  Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Mat 1:23  Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

Matthew   Mat 1:18  Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Mat 1:19  Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. Mat 1:20  But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. Mat 1:21  And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Mat 1:22  Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Mat 1:23  Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Mat 1:24  Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: Mat 1:25  And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS. I might worry that what with all the very vivid dreams I have had in my life time that some may have contained a message from God.  If so, the message has gone right over my head. Joseph, in this case, had a dream of an angel (a messenger) claiming to be God sent. None of mine were of Angles (Messengers) claiming to be God sent.  So there is some hope that I have not overlooked a direct message from God. On the other hand, Joseph and Daniel are two examples of messages from God in a dream without the involvement of an angel. Plato seems to believe that dreams give us a free ticket to do things we would be ashamed to do when awake. I, myself, am just as ashamed when asleep as I would be if awake. My scruples seem to follow where ever I go.

5-4 B.C. - Bethlehem - Birth of Jesus Christ

Matthew Luke Mat 1:24  Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: Mat 1:25  And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.   Luk 2:1  And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. Luk 2:2  (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) Luk 2:3  And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. Luk 2:4  And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) Luk 2:5  To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. Luk 2:6  And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. Luk 2:7  And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.   The most remarkable thing in the account to me is that Mary had a baby, wrapped him up and placed him in a manger, all without, apparently, any outside help; which feat impressed none of my commentators enough to remark upon. Could it be Mary or Jesus or both, because of their degree of purity from sin or faith were immune from the curse of Eve - that women should bear children in pain?

5-4 B.C. - Near Bethlehem - Proclamation by the Angels

Here we have angels telling shepherds so much and yet so little about the new born babe; only a hint the He is God in human form and that His death, burial and resurrection would be the source of salvation for all humanity. Luk 2:11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

Luke Luk 2:8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. Luk 2:9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. Luk 2:10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. Luk 2:11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. Luk 2:12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. Luk 2:13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Luk 2:14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Good angels, apparently, are completely good and need no savior. Bad angels are completely bad and God makes no provision for their salvation. The good angels seem to have a keen interest in our salvation and rejoice when one of us is saved. In heaven, it would seem we mingle with angels and some how relate. In some manner of grading, we are lower than angels. They are quite a mystery.

5-4 B.C. - Bethlehem - The Visit of Homage by Shepherds

No clue here as to how the shepherds interpreted the direct message from angels as to the mission and person of the new born babe. Luk 2:20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

Luke Luk 2:15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. Luk 2:16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. Luk 2:17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. Luk 2:18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. Luk 2:19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. Luk 2:20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them. How could Luke know the intimate fact that Mary "kept" and "pondered" these things in her heart?  Is this an indication that Luke's Gospel is based on, among many others, direct interviews with Mary, herself?  He certainly had plenty of time while waiting on Paul who was in jail for extended lengths of time toward the end of his account in Acts.

5-4 B.C. - Bethlehem - Jesus' Circumcision

Luke Luk 2:21 And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb. It is remarkable to me that the Gospels go to such detail in establishing that Jesus was a Jew and a Jew of very good linage and was so faithful in observing the Holy Day customs, studied scripture, attended synagogue. All these things and yet, as I understand it, Jews are careful to turn their backs on him and the evidence that he is God; and in fact, try to ignore the fact that he even existed and was one of them, let alone take pride that the focus of a major world religion is one of their own.

4 B.C. - Jerusalem - First Temple Visit with Acknowledgments by Simeon and Anna

Again, only hints from Simeon and Anna. Luk 2:34 And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; Luk 2:35 (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed. Luk 2:38 And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

Luke Luk 2:22 And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord; Luk 2:23 (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;) Luk 2:24 And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons. Luk 2:25 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. Luk 2:26 And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. Luk 2:27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, Luk 2:28 Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Luk 2:29 Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: Luk 2:30 For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Luk 2:31 Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; Luk 2:32 A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. Luk 2:33 And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him. Luk 2:34 And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; Luk 2:35 (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed. Luk 2:36 And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; Luk 2:37 And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. Luk 2:38 And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem. Luk 2:35 (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed. It is so true, the name of Jesus brings out a reaction. So many times I have heard people volunteer an opinion on Jesus when his name comes up.  It must be that people no matter how much they want to ignore him, and what he stands for, have given him much thought and if they reject, want greatly to relieve their minds by talking about it; possibly hoping for support.

4 B.C. - Jerusalem and Bethlehem - Visit of the Wise Men

The Wise Men, I would assume were looking for a new born spiritual leader not a political one.  They didn't come to worship Herod, why would they come to worship his successor? If they had explained that to Herod a little better, it might not have been such upsetting news. Actually it is Herod's own spiritual advisors who put a political slant to the prophecy in Mica 5:2. Mat 2:1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Mat 2:2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. Mat 2:3 When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Mat 2:4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. Mat 2:5 And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, Mat 2:6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.   Mic 5:2 But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.

Matthew Mat 2:1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Mat 2:2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. Mat 2:3 When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Mat 2:4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. Mat 2:5 And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, Mat 2:6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. Mat 2:7 Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. Mat 2:8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also. Mat 2:9 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. Mat 2:10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. Mat 2:11 And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. Mat 2:12 And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way. I had thought the wise men came directly to Herod. Not so. Who they first inquired of is not clearly stated but it is clear it was not Herod. Strange, they knew enough Jewish scripture to be on the lookout for a king but not enough to know to go directly to Bethlehem. I would have said also that the Gospels put their number at three; but their number actually is not stated. If they came after Jesus' birth in a few days or a few years is still not clear in my mind.

4 B.C. - Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Egypt - Flight into Egypt and Massacre of Innocents

Matthew Mat 2:13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. Mat 2:14 When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: Mat 2:15 And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son. Mat 2:16 Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men. Mat 2:17 Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, Mat 2:18 In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not. It would have been nicer but less exciting if the star had led the wise men directly to Bethlehem rather than first to Jerusalem where they spilled the beans to Herod and thereby caused the death of the children of Bethlehem; not to mention the bother of a flight to Egypt for Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.

4 B.C. - Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Egypt - From Egypt to Nazareth with Jesus

Matthew Luke Mat 2:19  But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, Mat 2:20  Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life. Mat 2:21  And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel. Mat 2:22  But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee: Mat 2:23  And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.   Luk 2:39  And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.   OK, now what am I to think!  It took visits from two separate angels at two separate times to give Joseph the complete message: Return to Israel, but not as you might think from what the first angel says, to Judea, but to Galilee based on the last minute warning of the second angel in a later dream.

Afterward - Nazareth - Childhood of Jesus

Up to this time Mary had hints from an angel, Simeon, Anna and wise men from afar that her son was quite special. But I take this passage to show that the full extent of His person and mission was not yet revealed even to His mother and possibly not even to young Jesus Himself.   Luk 2:40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. Luk 2:51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.

Luke Luk 2:40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. Luk 2:51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. It's still a puzzle to me: 1. Was Jesus born with the indwelling of the Holy Spirit or did it come down into him in the form of a dove when he was baptized by John. 2. Is each person of the Trinity from or for all of infinity of time and are they in dwelt by each other? 3. When Jesus asked on the cross "my God, my God why hast thou forsaken Me?", did the Holy Spirit forsake him at the same time?

 

A.D. 7-8  - Jerusalem - Jesus, 12 Years Old, Visits the Temple

This passage says to me that at the age of twelve Jesus was there at the temple to learn not to teach; though he was  endowed with superhuman ability to learn, he had yet to learn that He Himself was God and that His ultimate mission was His sacrifice on the cross. Luk 2:46 And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. Luk 2:47 And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers. Luk 2:48 And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. Luk 2:49 And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business? Luk 2:50 And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.

Luke Luk 2:41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover. Luk 2:42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. Luk 2:43 And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it. Luk 2:44 But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. Luk 2:45 And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him. Luk 2:46 And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. Luk 2:47 And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers. Luk 2:48 And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. Luk 2:49 And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business? Luk 2:50 And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them. The passage seems to say Mary and Joseph returned immediately to Jerusalem on the same day they left, returning without sleeping after hiking maybe twenty miles. Then it took them three days of searching in Jerusalem to find the lost Jesus.  Small wonder - Jerusalem at this time, or not many years later at it destruction, was a city of over a million people. It was like looking for a needle in a haystack.

 

 

Afterward - Nazareth - 18-Year Account of Jesus’ Adolescence and Adulthood

Is this a clue that He was yet to become fully God? Luk 2:51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. Luk 2:52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

Luke Luk 2:51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. Luk 2:52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man. I am not one hundred per cent sure, but I will venture to say that all the prophets recorded in the Bible except for John and Jesus have some little or not so little background given of the occasion of their calling by God to their mission (e.g. Moses and Samuel). Jesus and John, as far as the Gospels show, came born with their calling.  No where in the accounts can I point to at spot in their life prior to which they had no call; after which they were God directed and aware of their mission.

Ministry of John the Baptist - c. A.D. 25-27

John (The Baptist) had as his mission:  Luk 1:17 And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. His message was: Mat 3:2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Those who did confess and turn from their sins he baptized with water.  But that's only step one.  The people must look to Jesus: Luk 3:16 John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire:

c. A.D. 25-27 - Judean Wilderness - Johns Ministry Begins

Both John and Jesus grew up knowing they had a special calling from God. Here we see from Luke that God did not reveal to John the specifics of his mission until he was about thirty years old; a good indication the same was true for Jesus. Luk 3:1 Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, Luk 3:2 Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.

Matthew Mark  Luke  John    Mat 3:1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea,   Mar 1:1 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; Mar 1:2 As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. Mar 1:3 The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Mar 1:4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.   Luk 3:1 Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, Luk 3:2 Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.   Joh 1:19 And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou? Joh 1:20 And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed, I am not the Christ. Joh 1:21 And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No. Joh 1:22 Then said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself? Joh 1:23 He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias. Joh 1:24 And they which were sent were of the Pharisees. Joh 1:25 And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet? Joh 1:26 John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not; Joh 1:27 He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe's latchet I am not worthy to unloose. Joh 1:28 These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing. I stand corrected. Luke here tells us "the word of God came unto John...in the wilderness." Some of the commentators here mention that Jesus did not need instructions as John did - Jesus was and is the Word.

c. A.D. 25-27 - Judean Wilderness - Man and Message

And here are the specifics of John's mission: he was first to preach repentance for sins and to baptize in the Jordon those who received his message.  And secondly he was to inform his hearers that his message of repentance was only a preliminary to the salvation message to be provided by his cousin Jesus. Luk 3:3 And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; Luk 3:4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Luk 3:5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; Luk 3:6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.

Matthew Mark  Luke    Mat 3:2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Mat 3:3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Mat 3:4 And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. Mat 3:5 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, Mat 3:6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. Mat 3:7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Mat 3:8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: Mat 3:9 And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. Mat 3:10 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Mat 3:11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Mat 3:12 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.   Mar 1:2 As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. Mar 1:3 The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Mar 1:4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. Mar 1:5 And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins. Mar 1:6 And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of a skin about his loins; and he did eat locusts and wild honey; Mar 1:7 And preached, saying, There cometh one mightier than I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose. Mar 1:8 I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.   Luk 3:3 And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; Luk 3:4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Luk 3:5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; Luk 3:6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God. Luk 3:7 Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Luk 3:8 Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. Luk 3:9 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Luk 3:10 And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then? Luk 3:11 He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise. Luk 3:12 Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? Luk 3:13 And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you. Luk 3:14 And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages. I have to think that Luke, not being present himself, got it a little garbled as to exactly who John labeled a "generation of vipers". Matthew, who may well have been in the audience, says he addressed it to the Pharisees and Sadducees.  Luke says to the "multitude". Since the whole thrust of the Gospels is to point out the failings of the religious leaders, that they failed to teach and be good examples to the common multitudes, that the leaders in general rejected where the multitude was the major source of converts to Christ, Matthew's version of who made up the "generation of vipers" seems the more reasonable.

c. A.D. 25-27 - Judean Wilderness - His Picture of Jesus

John tells us those who received Jesus' message would receive another emersion - not in the water of the Jordon but with the Holy Ghost and with fire. John was quick to give specifics of what was involved in his message of repentance but gives no specifics as to his cousin Jesus' greater message and baptisms. Luk 3:16 John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire:

Matthew Mark  Luke  John    Mat 3:11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Mat 3:12 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.   Mar 1:7 And preached, saying, There cometh one mightier than I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose. Mar 1:8 I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.   Luk 3:15 And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not; Luk 3:16 John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire: Luk 3:17 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable. Luk 3:18 And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people.   Joh 1:26 John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not; Joh 1:27 He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe's latchet I am not worthy to unloose. This passage, to me, shows the true, limited symbolism of water baptism. I am proud to be a Baptist and hope my church never drops the word from its name. However, I believe that our use of water baptism to be a public profession of one's decision trust in Jesus is not quite  scriptural. John's water baptism meant no such thing.  It  was meant to show publicly that the person had made a decision to turn from a sinful way of life to a holy way of living. The Ethiopian Eunuch event might seem to contradict that, but ten again, I don't believe the story tells exactly what was his motive for asking Philip to baptize him in the nearby water.

c. A.D. 25-27 - Judean Wilderness - His Courage

Matthew Luke    Mat 14:4 For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her. Mat 14:5 And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet. Mat 14:6 But when Herod's birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod. Mat 14:7 Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would ask. Mat 14:8 And she, being before instructed of her mother, said, Give me here John Baptist's head in a charger. Mat 14:9 And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her. Mat 14:10 And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison. Mat 14:11 And his head was brought in a charger, and given to the damsel: and she brought it to her mother. Mat 14:12 And his disciples came, and took up the body, and buried it, and went and told Jesus.   Luk 3:19 But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done, Luk 3:20 Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison. The commentators seem unanimous in condemning Herod for making good on his rash vow to his step-daughter. It would be interesting to see if they were as united in condemning Jephtah for making good his rash vow to God. I have heard it preached that all vows to God should be kept, even rash ones.  My opinion is that if to carry out a rash vow requires a sinful act against another person, we are between a rock and a hard place; we should choose not to harm the other person and willingly suffer the penalty for the unfulfilled vow.

Ministry of Jesus - Beginning - c. A. D. 27

c. A.D. 27 - Jordan River - Jesus Baptized

This event may well be the most important event in the history of the entire physical universe. And yet its entire and true meaning is a mystery - each of us who come to it need the guidance of the Holy Spirit to take it in, to understand its meaning. Joh 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. Joh 1:30 This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. Joh 1:31 And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. Joh 1:32 And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. Joh 1:33 And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. Joh 1:34 And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God. That said, I make a few comments on this event: 1. Jesus himself admits He needs the baptism of John.  I take that to mean He admits to being a sinner just like all the rest of us humans, He repents of His sin, and wishes to be dunked in the Jordan by John as a public declaration of His repentance. Mat 3:13 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. Mat 3:14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? Mat 3:15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. 2. After He and all the rest of those in the crowd who repented were baptized by John, Jesus prayed and this triggered His second baptism, His born again experience, His baptism of the Holy Ghost. I take this passage to show that Jesus as a human like the rest of us had free will to accept or reject the indwelling of the Holy Ghost and His prayer was one of acceptance. Like all Old Testament saints he needed to look forward in faith to the perfect sacrifice of the Messiah on the cross for the atonement of His sin. Whether or not He knew at that time He was to become that sacrifice is a mystery.  I suspect not, I suspect it was revealed to Him in the next event when He fasted forty days and forty nights in the wilderness. Luk 3:22 And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.

Matthew Mark  Luke  John    Mat 3:13 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. Mat 3:14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? Mat 3:15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. Mat 3:16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: Mat 3:17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.   Mar 1:8 I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost. Mar 1:9 And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. Mar 1:10 And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: Mar 1:11 And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.   Luk 3:21 Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, Luk 3:22 And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased. Luk 3:23 And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was the son of Heli,   Joh 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. Joh 1:30 This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. Joh 1:31 And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. Joh 1:32 And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. Joh 1:33 And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. Joh 1:34 And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God. That Jesus needed to be baptized by water shows to me he was still mortal and required repentance. That John needed yet to be baptized by Jesus shows he needed to look to Jesus for his salvation. What does the dove mean?  The dove was the sacrifice available to even the poorest.  That could be it. God's word would imply that Jesus, now in-dwelt by the Holy Spirit, is now the perfect sacrifice for all sin.

c. A.D. 27 - Wilderness - Jesus Tempted

After forty days of fasting in the wilderness, Jesus still did not answer Satan with the information that He was equal to God but rather that as "Son of God" He was still subservient  to the Father. And His answers give little clue as to His mission - but I still suspect it was revealed to Him during the past forty days of fasting. Luk 4:3 And the devil said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, command this stone that it be made bread. Luk 4:4 And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.

Matthew Mark  Luke    Mat 4:1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. Mat 4:2 And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. Mat 4:3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. Mat 4:4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Mat 4:5 Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, Mat 4:6 And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. Mat 4:7 Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Mat 4:8 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; Mat 4:9 And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. Mat 4:10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Mat 4:11 Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.   Mar 1:12 And immediately the Spirit driveth him into the wilderness. Mar 1:13 And he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted of Satan; and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered unto him.   Luk 4:1 And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, Luk 4:2 Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered. Luk 4:3 And the devil said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, command this stone that it be made bread. Luk 4:4 And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. Luk 4:5 And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. Luk 4:6 And the devil said unto him, All this power will I give thee, and the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it. Luk 4:7 If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be thine. Luk 4:8 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Luk 4:9 And he brought him to Jerusalem, and set him on a pinnacle of the temple, and said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down from hence: Luk 4:10 For it is written, He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee: Luk 4:11 And in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. Luk 4:12 And Jesus answering said unto him, It is said, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Luk 4:13 And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season. Well, maybe he was not quite yet the perfect sacrifice for all sin. Just as Noah needed a forty day flood, and Moses needed forty days on the Mount and the Jews needed forty years in the wilderness, Jesus needed forty days of preparation for his earthly ministry; yet another indication of his complete mortal being.

c. A.D. 27 - Beyond Jordan - Calls First Disciples

How did John the Baptist know at this time that Jesus was "the Lamb of God"? My best guess is that Jesus told him so.  Jesus came back to His cousin after forty days of fasting and temptation in the wilderness and told him what God had revealed to Him was to be His mission here on earth - that He was to undergo death, burial and resurrection as God the Father's perfect sacrifice for the atonement of the sins of humanity. How did Nathanael know "Thou art the Son of God; Thou art the King of Israel"? Anyone who was present forty-one days ago at the baptism of Jesus knew that.  They got it straight from the Holy Ghost who said it at that time. Joh 1:35 Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; Joh 1:36 And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God! Joh 1:37 And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. Joh 1:48 Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and said unto him, Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee. Joh 1:49 Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel.

John Joh 1:35 Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; Joh 1:36 And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God! Joh 1:37 And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. Joh 1:38 Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou? Joh 1:39 He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day: for it was about the tenth hour. Joh 1:40 One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. Joh 1:41 He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ. Joh 1:42 And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone. Joh 1:43 The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and findeth Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me. Joh 1:44 Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Joh 1:45 Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. Joh 1:46 And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see. Joh 1:47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile! Joh 1:48 Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and said unto him, Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee. Joh 1:49 Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel. Joh 1:50 Jesus answered and said unto him, Because I said unto thee, I saw thee under the fig tree, believest thou? thou shalt see greater things than these. Joh 1:51 And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man. There were three mentioned by John the first day of calling. The one being unnamed, I will go out on a limb and say was John, himself.  Three more are mentioned the day following. Of all six, only to Philip did Jesus say "follow me."  I wonder why. He makes a promise to Nathanael: Joh 1:51 And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man. It makes sense to me only as the happening on the Day of Pentecost. Matthew and Luke seem for some reason to name Nathanael Bartholomew.

c. A.D. 27 - Cana in Galilee - The First Miracle

Jesus gave His mother a rather brusque reply but did do as she seems to suggest- do a miracle and make some wine. How did she know He had the ability?  He must have been doing little tricks like this in private for her since He was a child. His answer to His mother sets the tone for the next three years.  He will reveal His true mission to the world step by well measured step Joh 2:3 And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine. Joh 2:4 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come. Joh 2:11 This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.

John Joh 2:1 And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there: Joh 2:2 And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage. Joh 2:3 And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine. Joh 2:4 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come. Joh 2:5 His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it. Joh 2:6 And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece. Joh 2:7 Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim. Joh 2:8 And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it. Joh 2:9 When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom, Joh 2:10 And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now. Joh 2:11 This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him. The main point can be no other than as stated. That is to show his Godly ability and thereby give his disciples cause to believe him worth following. Joh 2:11 This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him. Why it took place at a marriage and had to do with wine would be only speculation.

c. A.D. 27 - Capernaum is "His" city - First Stay in Capernaum

John Joh 2:12 After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days. Point number one may well be that his mother and brethern did not "believe on him." He did more Miracles at Jerusalem and many did "believe on his name."  But he could read their hearts and may have found them not to be of high enough caliber to invite to be his follower/disciple.

 

A.D. 27 - Jerusalem - First Cleansing of the Temple

This is like a mini parable; the first with many more to come. Here He reveals to all His mission but none understand, not even His chosen disciples. Joh 2:18 Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things? Joh 2:19 Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. Joh 2:20 Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? Joh 2:21 But he spake of the temple of his body. Joh 2:22 When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said.

John Joh 2:13 And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, Joh 2:14 And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: Joh 2:15 And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables; Joh 2:16 And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise. Joh 2:17 And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up. Joh 2:18 Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things? Joh 2:19 Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. Joh 2:20 Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? Joh 2:21 But he spake of the temple of his body. Joh 2:22 When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said.

A.D. 27 - Judea - Received at Jerusalem

He did commit Himself to one man.  That man, Nicodemus, came to Him in private at night with an open heart wanting to know the full meaning Jesus' person and mission. Joh 2:23 Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did. Joh 2:24 But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men, Joh 2:25 And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.

John Joh 2:23 Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did. Joh 2:24 But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men, Joh 2:25 And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.

A.D. 27 - Judea - Teaches Nicodemus about Second Birth

First, Jesus tells Nicodemus he needs two born again experiences - one of water and two of spirit.  Hard to see how Nicodemus could fully understand this, but with the benefit of hindsight, we know He is referring to the water baptism for repentance of sin as preached and performed by John the Baptist and the baptism of the Holy Spirit which Jesus Himself will shortly begin to preach but which cannot actually happen until after Pentecost; a baptism which happens to those who place their trust in Jesus and His sacrifice for the sins of all on the cross. Then Jesus confirms what Nicodemus suspects - that His message is from God. And He tells him quite bluntly that He is the Only Begotten Son of God and that His mission is to die on the cross for the sins of humanity. By his actions three years later Nicodemus showed that he took the lessons he learned this night to heart. Joh 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Joh 3:4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Joh 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. Joh 3:13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. Joh 3:14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: Joh 3:15 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. Joh 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John Joh 3:1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: Joh 3:2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. Joh 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Joh 3:4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Joh 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. Joh 3:6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Joh 3:7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. Joh 3:8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. Joh 3:9 Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? Joh 3:10 Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Joh 3:11 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. Joh 3:12 If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? Joh 3:13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. Joh 3:14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: Joh 3:15 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. Joh 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Joh 3:17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. Joh 3:18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. Joh 3:19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. Joh 3:20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. Joh 3:21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. So, I can assume that Nicodemus was an eye witness to some miracles of Jesus in just the last few days in Jerusalem as there is no mention of him being at Cana. Also, I assume Jesus found him not a candidate for apostleship or even witness/disciple. But he sure seems to be encouraged to "see the kingdom of God." My opinion is he is being encouraged to become a part of the church, the body of Christ. His first opportunity for that will be a Pentecost. He is told to look to Jesus on the cross to be born of the Spirit. He seems already "born of water" , the first step.  That I take it happened through the teaching and baptism in the Jordan by John the Baptist.  In short, first repentance of sins, then look to Jesus for salvation. In John 1:13, John speaks of not just two possible births but of four: (1) Blood, (2) will of the flesh, (3) will of man, and (4) of God. Joh 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Joh 1:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. That verse needs some unweaving in my mind.

A.D. 27 - Judea - Co-Ministry with John

These are very strong words from John the Baptist showing that his cousin Jesus has revealed to him His divinity and His mission to die on the cross and the meaning of that mission - everlasting life for those that believe. My understanding is that the Old Testament saints are those who put their faith in an unnamed Messiah to be provided by God at some unspecified date in the future. John the Baptist and Nicodemus would seem to be the first two to learn the Messiah had come and His name is Jesus. Joh 3:31 He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. Joh 3:32 And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony. Joh 3:33 He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true. Joh 3:34 For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. Joh 3:35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. Joh 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

John Joh 3:22 After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judaea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized. Joh 3:23 And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized. Joh 3:24 For John was not yet cast into prison. Joh 3:25 Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying. Joh 3:26 And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him. Joh 3:27 John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. Joh 3:28 Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him. Joh 3:29 He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. Joh 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease. Joh 3:31 He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. Joh 3:32 And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony. Joh 3:33 He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true. Joh 3:34 For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. Joh 3:35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. Joh 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

A.D. 27 - Judea - Leaves for Galilee

There is a great significance in the fact that Jesus did not baptize disciples.  All the baptisms taking place at this time were in the water of the Jordan as a public declaration of repentance.  Those baptisms can be well handled by John the Baptist and his disciples. (Some of whom were now following Jesus) The focus of Jesus' message is the baptism of the Holy Spirit and that can only take place after Jesus' death on the cross, burial and resurrection. Up to now Jesus has limited His public ministry to the performance of miracles in order to establish Himself as a teacher come from God. At this time Mark tells us "Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel of the Kingdom of God", but with not the least outline of His preaching. Joh 4:1 When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, Joh 4:2 (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,) Mar 1:14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,

Matthew Mark  Luke  John    Mat 4:12 Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee;   Mar 1:14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,   Luk 4:14 And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and there went out a fame of him through all the region round about.   Joh 4:1 When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, Joh 4:2 (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,) Joh 4:3 He left Judaea, and departed again into Galilee. Joh 4:4 And he must needs go through Samaria. Now here's a passage I have never heard much made over. Joh 4:1 When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, Joh 4:2 (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,) Jesus, at this time was apparently preaching the same (first step only?) message as John the Baptist - the message of repentance of/for sin and his disciples were baptizing those who took the message to heart in the same manner as John.

A.D. 27 - Samaria - Samaritan Woman at Jacob’s Well

The Gospel of John gives quite a good outline of what Jesus was preaching around the time of this event.  It's the same message He gave also in private to Nicodemus a few days before. In Joh 4:10 Jesus gives the Samaritan woman a hint that He is divine and can offer her a baptism certifying eternal life. In Joh 4:13 He hints that a water baptism alone will not give that certification. In Joh 4:14 He confirms that His baptism is what leads to eternal life. In Joh 4:21 He tells her that the way to salvation will soon change for all who worship the Father, for both God's chosen people the Jews and for her and the rest of the world, the gentiles. In Joh 4:24 He hints that His baptism revolves around spirit. In John 4:25 the Samaritan woman shows a remarkable knowledge of Old Testament prophecy; Jesus' message to her rings a bell in her mind of predictions of a coming Messiah. And in Joh 4:26 Jesus tells her she has hit the nail on the head and further more he is that very person. John specifically states the returning disciples did not ask Jesus what He was talking about with the Samaritan woman so up to this time she now knew more about His message and mission than they. Then in Joh 4:34 - 37 Jesus makes a pun when asked to eat and gives them two more mini parables - the first about His mission and the second about what is to be their jobs. Not much hope that at this time they could catch the meaning.  Even a year later they needed His help to understand a similar parable about sowing and harvesting. (Mat 13:3 - 23) Joh 4:10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. Joh 4:13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: Joh 4:14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. Joh 4:21 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. Joh 4:22 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. Joh 4:23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. Joh 4:24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. Joh 4:25 The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. Joh 4:26 Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he. Joh 4:34 Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. Joh 4:35 Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. Joh 4:36 And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together. Joh 4:37 And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth. Joh 4:38 I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours. Joh 4:41 And many more believed because of his own word; Joh 4:42 And said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.

John Joh 4:5 Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Joh 4:6 Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat thus on the well: and it was about the sixth hour. Joh 4:7 There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink. Joh 4:8 (For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.) Joh 4:9 Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. Joh 4:10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. Joh 4:11 The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? Joh 4:12 Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle? Joh 4:13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: Joh 4:14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. Joh 4:15 The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw. Joh 4:16 Jesus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come hither. Joh 4:17 The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband: Joh 4:18 For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly. Joh 4:19 The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet. Joh 4:20 Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship. Joh 4:21 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. Joh 4:22 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. Joh 4:23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. Joh 4:24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. Joh 4:25 The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. Joh 4:26 Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he. Joh 4:27 And upon this came his disciples, and marvelled that he talked with the woman: yet no man said, What seekest thou? or, Why talkest thou with her? Joh 4:28 The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men, Joh 4:29 Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ? Joh 4:30 Then they went out of the city, and came unto him. Joh 4:31 In the mean while his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat. Joh 4:32 But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of. Joh 4:33 Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him ought to eat? Joh 4:34 Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. Joh 4:35 Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. Joh 4:36 And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together. Joh 4:37 And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth. Joh 4:38 I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours. Joh 4:39 And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did. Joh 4:40 So when the Samaritans were come unto him, they besought him that he would tarry with them: and he abode there two days. Joh 4:41 And many more believed because of his own word; Joh 4:42 And said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.   There can be no doubt what gift Jesus meant by living water. He meant the Holy Spirit. Joh 7:39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.) However, two years later Jesus was rejected in Samaria. Luk 9:52 And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. Luk 9:53 And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. He did tell them some conditions for receiving the gift: Joh 4:21 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. Joh 4:22 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. Joh 4:23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. Joh 4:24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. It could be that because they still rejected Jerusalem as the proper place for worship that they failed of repentance - step one -  and therefore failed to qualify for God's Kingdom.

A.D. 27 - Returns to Galilee

The only recorded mention of preaching Jesus did on this trip to Galilee was during a two day stop at Samaria. The record of the detail of what He preached is that given by John in his account of Jesus witnessing to the Samaritan woman the first afternoon of this visit. Very likely what He preached in the city was the same message that He preached to the woman. Also very likely His disciples (at this time we are told of only four) were in the audience and were exposed for the first time to His "preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel." Mar 1:14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, Mar 1:15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.

Mark Luke  John    Mar 1:15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.   Luk 4:15 And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all.   Joh 4:43 Now after two days he departed thence, and went into Galilee. Joh 4:44 For Jesus himself testified, that a prophet hath no honour in his own country. Joh 4:45 Then when he was come into Galilee, the Galilaeans received him, having seen all the things that he did at Jerusalem at the feast: for they also went unto the feast.

Northern Ministry of Jesus - A. D. 27-29

A.D. 27 - Cana - Healing of the Nobleman's Son

Jesus has the power to cure the whole world of sickness and death. He chose to do so in this particular case to establish Himself to all who witnessed the miracle that He was their predicted messiah.  Joh 4:48 Then said Jesus unto him, Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe. Joh 4:54 This is again the second miracle that Jesus did, when he was come out of Judaea into Galilee.

John Joh 4:46 So Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he made the water wine. And there was a certain nobleman, whose son was sick at Capernaum. Joh 4:47 When he heard that Jesus was come out of Judaea into Galilee, he went unto him, and besought him that he would come down, and heal his son: for he was at the point of death. Joh 4:48 Then said Jesus unto him, Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe. Joh 4:49 The nobleman saith unto him, Sir, come down ere my child die. Joh 4:50 Jesus saith unto him, Go thy way; thy son liveth. And the man believed the word that Jesus had spoken unto him, and he went his way. Joh 4:51 And as he was now going down, his servants met him, and told him, saying, Thy son liveth. Joh 4:52 Then enquired he of them the hour when he began to amend. And they said unto him, Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him. Joh 4:53 So the father knew that it was at the same hour, in the which Jesus said unto him, Thy son liveth: and himself believed, and his whole house. Joh 4:54 This is again the second miracle that Jesus did, when he was come out of Judaea into Galilee. It seems a big point to Jesus that the nobleman did not get whatever concerning himself (Jesus) that (I assume) the nobleman heard at Jerusalem. Jesus told Nicodemus to look to him (Jesus) for eternal life in the Kingdom. Possibly he was telling that to all who would listen.  But anyway, the main reason for Jesus to heal the sick was to gain credence for his "born again" message, not to show his mercy. Joh 4:48 Then said Jesus unto him, Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe.

A.D. 27 - Nazareth - Rejected at Nazareth

This is the third event presented in the Gospels which give some insight into Jesus' message to the world - Nicodemus, the Samaritan woman and now to His home folks in Nazareth. Not a word in all three about repentance. Maybe He was going to bring it up here, but they gave Him no chance; they tried to throw Him off a cliff at the very beginning of His message for claiming to be the Messiah predicted by Isaiah. (Isaiah 61:1-2) Luk 4:17 And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, Luk 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, Luk 4:19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. Luk 4:20 And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him. Luk 4:21 And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.

Luke Luk 4:16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read. Luk 4:17 And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, Luk 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, Luk 4:19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. Luk 4:20 And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him. Luk 4:21 And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears. Luk 4:22 And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph's son? Luk 4:23 And he said unto them, Ye will surely say unto me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country. Luk 4:24 And he said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country. Luk 4:25 But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land; Luk 4:26 But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow. Luk 4:27 And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian. Luk 4:28 And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath, Luk 4:29 And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong. Luk 4:30 But he passing through the midst of them went his way,   What is the exact "gospel" that he announced to the Nazarenes that he was about to preach is not clear to me.  But at the next happening at Capernaum Matthew says he had a new message: Mat 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Could be that is what he would have told his home folks, but again as at Cana he was rejected and he knew that their skepticism could not be overcome by signs and wonders (miracles and healings).

A.D. 27 - Capernaum - Moved to Capernaum

Up to this time Jesus seems to have left it up to His cousin John to preach the first step to salvation - repentance. Now that John is in Herod's jail He appears to have taken on that duty also. Mar 1:14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, Mat 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Matthew Mat 4:13 And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim: Mat 4:14 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Mat 4:15 The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; Mat 4:16 The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. Mat 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

A.D. 27 - Sea of Galilee - Four Become Fishers of Men

Of the four Gospels, Luke gives the most detail of this account.  (John who was an actual participant gives none) Luke had ample opportunity to quiz Peter some years later after the event and that's likely to have been the source of his detail. Luke's account indicates that Peter for one had taken Jesus' message of repentance to heart and that it was the miracle of the large catch of fish which made all four decide to follow Jesus' call to service. There is no indication here that Jesus had yet publicly revealed his divinity and the need for all to rely on Him for a spiritual rebirth. Luk 5:3 And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship. Luk 5:4 Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. Luk 5:5 And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. Luk 5:6 And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake. Luk 5:7 And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. Luk 5:8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. Luk 5:9 For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken: Luk 5:10 And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men. Luk 5:11 And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.

Matthew Mark  Luke    Mat 4:18 And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. Mat 4:19 And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. Mat 4:20 And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. Mat 4:21 And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. Mat 4:22 And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.   Mar 1:16 Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. Mar 1:17 And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men. Mar 1:18 And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him. Mar 1:19 And when he had gone a little further thence, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the ship mending their nets. Mar 1:20 And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him.   Luk 5:1 And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret, Luk 5:2 And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets. Luk 5:3 And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship. Luk 5:4 Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. Luk 5:5 And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. Luk 5:6 And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake. Luk 5:7 And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. Luk 5:8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. Luk 5:9 For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken: Luk 5:10 And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men. Luk 5:11 And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him. This episode in my Bible is titled "Jesus Calls His First Disciples." This is not correct entirely. These four expressed curiosity about Jesus a number of days, maybe weeks earlier, but either were not yet "called" or could not yet make up their minds to answer the call. (John 1:35-51)  He did have disciples shortly after at the wedding at Cana. These must have been Philip and Nathanael. For what it is worth, the happenings in John 1:19 through 2:12 seem to take place all over a matter of four or five days. This leads me to believe John the Baptist was doing his Baptizing on the east side of the Jordan River very close to where it comes out of the Sea of Galilee.

A.D. 27 - Capernaum - Demoniac Healed on the Sabbath Day

Wow, what can we make of this?  Devils inhabiting sick people!  Is that covered in your health insurance plan? But one thing we can get from this event - fallen angels know God when they see Him and His name is Jesus. Luk 4:33 And in the synagogue there was a man, which had a spirit of an unclean devil, and cried out with a loud voice, Luk 4:34 Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art; the Holy One of God. Luk 4:35 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not.

Mark Luke    Mar 1:21 And they went into Capernaum; and straightway on the sabbath day he entered into the synagogue, and taught. Mar 1:22 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes. Mar 1:23 And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, Mar 1:24 Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God. Mar 1:25 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. Mar 1:26 And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and cried with a loud voice, he came out of him. Mar 1:27 And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him. Mar 1:28 And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee.   Luk 4:31 And came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the sabbath days. Luk 4:32 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power. Luk 4:33 And in the synagogue there was a man, which had a spirit of an unclean devil, and cried out with a loud voice, Luk 4:34 Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art; the Holy One of God. Luk 4:35 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not. Luk 4:36 And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out. Luk 4:37 And the fame of him went out into every place of the country round about. Strange how out of order Matthew places these events. Even the Sermon on the Mount he places before his own calling by Jesus. His new (Astonishing) doctrine ( Mar 1:22 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes. Mar 1:27 And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him. ) was " repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" Mat 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. The unclean spirits are called devils. Luk 4:35 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not. Luk 4:41 And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak: for they knew that he was Christ. I wonder if this is the first occurrence in the Bible, Old or New Testament, of demon (devil) possession.  I take it to mean fallen angels not the spirits of dead humans. This would make a good Bible study. Jesus and his apostles repeat this wonder many times in the future. That Jesus cautions them not to speak, I take to mean he does not want it yet revealed that he is to die on the cross for the sins of all.  Right now, I believe he reveals that at the Last Supper - maybe earlier.  It is important to research that.

A.D. 27 - Capernaum - Peter’s Mother-in-Law Cured, Plus Others

Another instance of Jesus rebuking fallen angels for revealing His divinity to the general public. The time for that had not yet come. Luk 4:40 Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them. Luk 4:41 And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak: for they knew that he was Christ.

Matthew Mark  Luke    Mat 8:14 And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his wife's mother laid, and sick of a fever. Mat 8:15 And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto them. Mat 8:16 When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick: Mat 8:17 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.   Mar 1:29 And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Mar 1:30 But Simon's wife's mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell him of her. Mar 1:31 And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them. Mar 1:32 And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils. Mar 1:33 And all the city was gathered together at the door. Mar 1:34 And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him.   Luk 4:38 And he arose out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon's house. And Simon's wife's mother was taken with a great fever; and they besought him for her. Luk 4:39 And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever; and it left her: and immediately she arose and ministered unto them. Luk 4:40 Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them. Luk 4:41 And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak: for they knew that he was Christ.

c. A.D. 27 - Galilee - First Preaching Tour of Galilee

There can be no doubt the person who sent Jesus to preach and gave Him the message is God the Father. Luk 4:43 And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent.

Matthew Mark  Luke    Mat 4:23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. Mat 4:24 And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them. Mat 4:25 And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judaea, and from beyond Jordan.   Mar 1:35 And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed. Mar 1:36 And Simon and they that were with him followed after him. Mar 1:37 And when they had found him, they said unto him, All men seek for thee. Mar 1:38 And he said unto them, Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore came I forth. Mar 1:39 And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils.   Luk 4:42 And when it was day, he departed and went into a desert place: and the people sought him, and came unto him, and stayed him, that he should not depart from them. Luk 4:43 And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent. Luk 4:44 And he preached in the synagogues of Galilee. Not much I can get from these passages, but here I see for the first time Jesus is "followed" by the (future) apostles - Peter and others.  Also more devils cast out and his preaching is still "the gospel of the kingdom".

c. A.D. 27 - Galilee - Leper Healed and Response Recorded

Here is a clue as to why Jesus has not yet fully revealed His divinity and not yet fully revealed God the Father's plan for salvation for the whole world. He wants to give the priests ample time to repent of their failure as spiritual leaders of His chosen people and to recognize the predicted Messiah now that He has come. Luk 5:12 And it came to pass, when he was in a certain city, behold a man full of leprosy: who seeing Jesus fell on his face, and besought him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. Luk 5:13 And he put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will: be thou clean. And immediately the leprosy departed from him. Luk 5:14 And he charged him to tell no man: but go, and shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them. Luk 5:15 But so much the more went there a fame abroad of him: and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him of their infirmities. Luk 5:16 And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.

Matthew Mark  Luke    Mat 8:1 When he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him. Mat 8:2 And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. Mat 8:3 And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. Mat 8:4 And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.   Mar 1:40 And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. Mar 1:41 And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean. Mar 1:42 And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from him, and he was cleansed. Mar 1:43 And he straitly charged him, and forthwith sent him away; Mar 1:44 And saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them. Mar 1:45 But he went out, and began to publish it much, and to blaze abroad the matter, insomuch that Jesus could no more openly enter into the city, but was without in desert places: and they came to him from every quarter.   Luk 5:12 And it came to pass, when he was in a certain city, behold a man full of leprosy: who seeing Jesus fell on his face, and besought him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. Luk 5:13 And he put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will: be thou clean. And immediately the leprosy departed from him. Luk 5:14 And he charged him to tell no man: but go, and shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them. Luk 5:15 But so much the more went there a fame abroad of him: and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him of their infirmities. Luk 5:16 And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed. The leper possibly was the first public healing of  a physically sick person (Peter's mother-in-law was healed at home). Why Jesus did not want it noised about is probably significant, but I can't figure it out. As for the paralytic, Jesus made no effort to hush-up his healing; but how could it be hushed, it happened right in a crowded room. It is also the first time Jesus tells someone that their sins are forgiven thanks to "their" faith. Strange, it seems to be the faith of the four who carried him in that wiped away the sins of the sick person. Also strange how out of the order of Mark and Luke Matthew has his telling of these events, Matthew being the only eye witness of the three.

c. A.D. 27 - Capernaum - Paralytic Healed

This man received so much more than he and his friends came for.  They wanted health for the bed ridden man in this life; he received life eternal. Each person on earth has his or her unique ability to express repentance and faith.  I understand this event as showing that God judges each of us as to whether or not we have demonstrated repentance and faith taking our unique abilities in consideration.  A person with a doctor's degree in religion should have a better testimony of repentance and faith than the village idiot or the back woods native who never heard a word about Jesus. Luk 5:20 And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man, thy sins are forgiven thee.

Matthew  Mark  Luke    Mat 9:1 And he entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into his own city. Mat 9:2 And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee. Mat 9:3 And, behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This man blasphemeth. Mat 9:4 And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? Mat 9:5 For whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and walk? Mat 9:6 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house. Mat 9:7 And he arose, and departed to his house. Mat 9:8 But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men.   Mar 2:1 And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house. Mar 2:2 And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them. Mar 2:3 And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four. Mar 2:4 And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay. Mar 2:5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee. Mar 2:6 But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts, Mar 2:7 Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only? Mar 2:8 And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they so reasoned within themselves, he said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts? Mar 2:9 Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk? Mar 2:10 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,) Mar 2:11 I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house. Mar 2:12 And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.   Luk 5:17 And it came to pass on a certain day, as he was teaching, that there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, which were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judaea, and Jerusalem: and the power of the Lord was present to heal them. Luk 5:18 And, behold, men brought in a bed a man which was taken with a palsy: and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him before him. Luk 5:19 And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch into the midst before Jesus. Luk 5:20 And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man, thy sins are forgiven thee. Luk 5:21 And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone? Luk 5:22 But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answering said unto them, What reason ye in your hearts? Luk 5:23 Whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Rise up and walk? Luk 5:24 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins, (he said unto the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine house. Luk 5:25 And immediately he rose up before them, and took up that whereon he lay, and departed to his own house, glorifying God. Luk 5:26 And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying, We have seen strange things to day.

c. A.D. 27 - Capernaum - Matthew’s Call and Reception Held

The point of this event is not that the religious leaders have no need for repentance. The point is that Jesus was sent because they were a generation of vipers; they were not doing their God given job of teaching and preaching God' word. Mat 9:13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

Matthew  Mark  Luke    Mat 9:9 And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him. Mat 9:10 And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. Mat 9:11 And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners? Mat 9:12 But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. Mat 9:13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.   Mar 2:13 And he went forth again by the sea side; and all the multitude resorted unto him, and he taught them. Mar 2:14 And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow me. And he arose and followed him. Mar 2:15 And it came to pass, that, as Jesus sat at meat in his house, many publicans and sinners sat also together with Jesus and his disciples: for there were many, and they followed him. Mar 2:16 And when the scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with publicans and sinners, they said unto his disciples, How is it that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners? Mar 2:17 When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.   Luk 5:27 And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me. Luk 5:28 And he left all, rose up, and followed him. Luk 5:29 And Levi made him a great feast in his own house: and there was a great company of publicans and of others that sat down with them. Luk 5:30 But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners? Luk 5:31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. Luk 5:32 I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Still, Jesus' message is "to call sinners to repentance" where as Paul says Jesus came into the world to save sinners. 1Ti 1:15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. I hope to keep my eyes out for the point where repentance is not enough, where Jesus' message is or becomes that "repentance is not enough, we must not just repent but must trust in his sacrifice, not in our good works."  I think he said that to Nicodemus almost a year ago (Passover in Jerusalem A.D. 27) in private but not yet in public.

c. A.D. 27 - Capernaum - Disciples Defended via a Parable

Here Jesus had a perfect opportunity to reveal His divinity and God's plan for salvation for the whole world - a plan which involved overturning the old temple/priesthood system. But the time was not ripe.  So He chose to tell the Jewish religious leaders the second of His famous parables; stories for which most of His hearers lacked the spiritual ability to understand. Luk 5:30 But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners? Luk 5:31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. Luk 5:32 I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Luk 5:33 And they said unto him, Why do the disciples of John fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink?

Matthew Mark  Luke    Mat 9:14 Then came to him the disciples of John, saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not? Mat 9:15 And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast. Mat 9:16 No man putteth a piece of new cloth unto an old garment, for that which is put in to fill it up taketh from the garment, and the rent is made worse. Mat 9:17 Neither do men put new wine into old bottles: else the bottles break, and the wine runneth out, and the bottles perish: but they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved.   Mar 2:18 And the disciples of John and of the Pharisees used to fast: and they come and say unto him, Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but thy disciples fast not? Mar 2:19 And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? as long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. Mar 2:20 But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days. Mar 2:21 No man also seweth a piece of new cloth on an old garment: else the new piece that filled it up taketh away from the old, and the rent is made worse. Mar 2:22 And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new bottles.   Luk 5:33 And they said unto him, Why do the disciples of John fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink? Luk 5:34 And he said unto them, Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? Luk 5:35 But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days. Luk 5:36 And he spake also a parable unto them; No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old. Luk 5:37 And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. Luk 5:38 But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved. Luk 5:39 No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better. The Bridegroom  = Jesus The Children of the Bridegroom = His Disciples Feasting = Time for Joy = When Jesus Is Present Fasting = Time for Sorrow = The Three Days He Will Be Gone   Old Garment with a Hole = Temple Worship = Fasting New Garment = The New Kingdom = Feasting The Patch = The Practice of Feasting New Wine = Feasting Old Wine = Fasting New Bottles = The Kingdom Old Bottles = Temple Worship I will have to put this all together later, but the points are when Jesus is present as he was at the current feast and will be with believers in the church age as their head and us as his body, that will always be a time for rejoicing. Fasting then is not appropriate. Fasting is appropriate under the old temple priesthood - sacrifice system and until a practicing Jew has tasted the new wine/kingdom will he rightly believe the old system is best.

A.D. 28 - Jerusalem - Goes to Jerusalem for Second Passover; Heals Lame Man

And here we see Jesus' reason for holding back the revelation of His person and message to the Jewish religious leaders.  The more He reveals,  the more they seek to kill Him. His death on the cross is, of course, God's plan for the world's salvation but it can't be rushed.  Jesus will need two more years to find and train the disciples who will carry His message to the world. Joh 5:18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God. Joh 5:19 Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise. Joh 5:20 For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel. Joh 5:21 For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will. Joh 5:22 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: Joh 5:43 I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.

John Joh 5:1 After this there was a feast of the Jews; and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Joh 5:2 Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches. Joh 5:3 In these lay a great multitude of impotent folk, of blind, halt, withered, waiting for the moving of the water. Joh 5:4 For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and troubled the water: whosoever then first after the troubling of the water stepped in was made whole of whatsoever disease he had. Joh 5:5 And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years. Joh 5:6 When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole? Joh 5:7 The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me. Joh 5:8 Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk. Joh 5:9 And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath. Joh 5:10 The Jews therefore said unto him that was cured, It is the sabbath day: it is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed. Joh 5:11 He answered them, He that made me whole, the same said unto me, Take up thy bed, and walk. Joh 5:12 Then asked they him, What man is that which said unto thee, Take up thy bed, and walk? Joh 5:13 And he that was healed wist not who it was: for Jesus had conveyed himself away, a multitude being in that place. Joh 5:14 Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee. Joh 5:15 The man departed, and told the Jews that it was Jesus, which had made him whole. Joh 5:16 And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day. Joh 5:17 But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work. Joh 5:18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God. Joh 5:19 Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise. Joh 5:20 For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel. Joh 5:21 For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will. Joh 5:22 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: Joh 5:23 That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. Joh 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. Joh 5:25 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. Joh 5:26 For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself; Joh 5:27 And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. Joh 5:28 Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, Joh 5:29 And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. Joh 5:30 I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me. Joh 5:31 If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true. Joh 5:32 There is another that beareth witness of me; and I know that the witness which he witnesseth of me is true. Joh 5:33 Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth. Joh 5:34 But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved. Joh 5:35 He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light. Joh 5:36 But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me. Joh 5:37 And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape. Joh 5:38 And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not. Joh 5:39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. Joh 5:40 And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life. Joh 5:41 I receive not honour from men. Joh 5:42 But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. Joh 5:43 I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. Joh 5:44 How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only? Joh 5:45 Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust. Joh 5:46 For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. Joh 5:47 But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words? Here still, his message to the healed lame man is "sin no more." His message to the "Jews" ( I assume Jewish leaders) goes no further than to claim to be the "Son of God" and "Son of Man".  He expects them to believe him because of his own testimony, John the Baptist's testimony and the writings of Moses, and his works of healing. He seems here as yet concentrating on finding believer/disciples who will be "witnesses chosen before of God,..., who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. And he commanded us to preach..." Act 10:39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: Act 10:40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; Act 10:41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. Act 10:42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. Act 10:43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.

A.D. 28 - En Route to Galilee - Plucked Grain Precipitates Sabbath Controversy

When asked, Jesus told the truth about His divinity. But the truth is more than the religious leaders can comprehend. Mat 12:6 But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple. Mat 12:7 But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless. Mat 12:8 For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day.

Matthew   Mark Luke    Mat 12:1 At that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through the corn; and his disciples were an hungred, and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat. Mat 12:2 But when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto him, Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day. Mat 12:3 But he said unto them, Have ye not read what David did, when he was an hungred, and they that were with him; Mat 12:4 How he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests? Mat 12:5 Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless? Mat 12:6 But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple. Mat 12:7 But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless. Mat 12:8 For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day.     Mar 2:23 And it came to pass, that he went through the corn fields on the sabbath day; and his disciples began, as they went, to pluck the ears of corn. Mar 2:24 And the Pharisees said unto him, Behold, why do they on the sabbath day that which is not lawful? Mar 2:25 And he said unto them, Have ye never read what David did, when he had need, and was an hungred, he, and they that were with him? Mar 2:26 How he went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar the high priest, and did eat the shewbread, which is not lawful to eat but for the priests, and gave also to them which were with him? Mar 2:27 And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath: Mar 2:28 Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.   Luk 6:1 And it came to pass on the second sabbath after the first, that he went through the corn fields; and his disciples plucked the ears of corn, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands. Luk 6:2 And certain of the Pharisees said unto them, Why do ye that which is not lawful to do on the sabbath days? Luk 6:3 And Jesus answering them said, Have ye not read so much as this, what David did, when himself was an hungred, and they which were with him; Luk 6:4 How he went into the house of God, and did take and eat the shewbread, and gave also to them that were with him; which it is not lawful to eat but for the priests alone? Luk 6:5 And he said unto them, That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.

A.D. 28 - Galilee - Withered Hand Healed Causes Another Sabbath Controversy

Rather than responding in joy that the messiah has come,  the religious leaders plot to kill Him.  This just builds up more evidence that they must be thrown out and the temple and their positions of authority be abolished. Mar 3:5 And when he had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other. Mar 3:6 And the Pharisees went forth, and straightway took counsel with the Herodians against him, how they might destroy him.

Matthew Mark  Luke    Mat 12:9 And when he was departed thence, he went into their synagogue: Mat 12:10 And, behold, there was a man which had his hand withered. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath days? that they might accuse him. Mat 12:11 And he said unto them, What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out? Mat 12:12 How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the sabbath days. Mat 12:13 Then saith he to the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it forth; and it was restored whole, like as the other. Mat 12:14 Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him.   Mar 3:1 And he entered again into the synagogue; and there was a man there which had a withered hand. Mar 3:2 And they watched him, whether he would heal him on the sabbath day; that they might accuse him. Mar 3:3 And he saith unto the man which had the withered hand, Stand forth. Mar 3:4 And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? But they held their peace. Mar 3:5 And when he had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other. Mar 3:6 And the Pharisees went forth, and straightway took counsel with the Herodians against him, how they might destroy him.   Luk 6:6 And it came to pass also on another sabbath, that he entered into the synagogue and taught: and there was a man whose right hand was withered. Luk 6:7 And the scribes and Pharisees watched him, whether he would heal on the sabbath day; that they might find an accusation against him. Luk 6:8 But he knew their thoughts, and said to the man which had the withered hand, Rise up, and stand forth in the midst. And he arose and stood forth. Luk 6:9 Then said Jesus unto them, I will ask you one thing; Is it lawful on the sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? to save life, or to destroy it? Luk 6:10 And looking round about upon them all, he said unto the man, Stretch forth thy hand. And he did so: and his hand was restored whole as the other. Luk 6:11 And they were filled with madness; and communed one with another what they might do to Jesus.

A.D. 28 - Sea of Galilee - Multitudes Healed

And again Jesus cautions the multitudes of common people and fallen angels not to reveal His true identity.  To do so would only hasten His sacrifice at the hands of the religious leaders before its proper time, before He has trained His disciples. Mat 12:15 But when Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence: and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all; Mat 12:16 And charged them that they should not make him known: Luk 6:18 And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed.

Matthew Mark  Luke    Mat 12:15 But when Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence: and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all; Mat 12:16 And charged them that they should not make him known: Mat 12:17 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Mat 12:18 Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles. Mat 12:19 He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets. Mat 12:20 A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory. Mat 12:21 And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.   Mar 3:7 But Jesus withdrew himself with his disciples to the sea: and a great multitude from Galilee followed him, and from Judaea, Mar 3:8 And from Jerusalem, and from Idumaea, and from beyond Jordan; and they about Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude, when they had heard what great things he did, came unto him. Mar 3:9 And he spake to his disciples, that a small ship should wait on him because of the multitude, lest they should throng him. Mar 3:10 For he had healed many; insomuch that they pressed upon him for to touch him, as many as had plagues. Mar 3:11 And unclean spirits, when they saw him, fell down before him, and cried, saying, Thou art the Son of God. Mar 3:12 And he straitly charged them that they should not make him known.   Luk 6:17 And he came down with them, and stood in the plain, and the company of his disciples, and a great multitude of people out of all Judaea and Jerusalem, and from the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon, which came to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases; Luk 6:18 And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed. Luk 6:19 And the whole multitude sought to touch him: for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all. Here again Jesus goes no further than to claim to be "the Lord whom ye seek" as predicted in Malachi 3:1.   And shortly thereafter he does many acts of healing, first in their synagogue and at the nearby Sea of Galilee. He is carefully choosing his audience, telling those healed not to noise it around and thereby draw even greater multitudes.  Especially he tells "unclean spirits" to keep their mouths shut.  They apparently have greater insight into who he is or what his mission is and now is not the time to let the cat out of the bag and/or theirs' is not the quality of testimony he desires.

A.D. 28 - Near Capernaum - Twelve Apostles Selected After a Night of Prayer

Next starts the training period for these twelve apostles.  As said before, it will take two years before they are ready to be sent out with the complete message of God's plan of salvation for the entire world. For two years they will be taught with parables which will takes special spiritual discernment to understand, will witness miracles which confirm the divinity of Jesus, and they will witness His death, burial and resurrection. And at the end of their training period, as a graduation ceremony at Pentecost, they will receive the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Mar 3:13 And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would: and they came unto him. Mar 3:14 And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach, Mar 3:15 And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils: Mar 3:16 And Simon he surnamed Peter; Mar 3:17 And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and he surnamed them Boanerges, which is, The sons of thunder: Mar 3:18 And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Canaanite, Mar 3:19 And Judas Iscariot, which also betrayed him: and they went into an house.

Mark Luke    Mar 3:13 And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would: and they came unto him. Mar 3:14 And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach, Mar 3:15 And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils: Mar 3:16 And Simon he surnamed Peter; Mar 3:17 And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and he surnamed them Boanerges, which is, The sons of thunder: Mar 3:18 And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Canaanite, Mar 3:19 And Judas Iscariot, which also betrayed him: and they went into an house.   Luk 6:12 And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. Luk 6:13 And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles; Luk 6:14 Simon, (whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, Luk 6:15 Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called Zelotes, Luk 6:16 And Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, which also was the traitor. After these twelve are selected, much (maybe all) of the sayings of Jesus are directed to them in particular.  The Gospel of Matthew has so little care taken in the presentation of order of events that it is easy, in fact almost impossible, not to catch to whom his messages are being directed.  This is unfortunate, I would think, since so much more is expected of his apostles than the rest of mankind.  Luk 12:48 But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.

A.D. 28 - Near Capernaum - Sermon on the Mt.

Now Jesus begins His training program for the twelve chosen ones. First He tells them the blessings they will receive if they come to their mission of service with proper attitudes.  (Mat 5:1-12 The Beatitudes) Next He tells them to be like Him in sacrifice and light.  (Mat 5:13-16 The Similitudes) Then He cautions them that they will be required to live lives of exemplary testimony.  They will have to go above and beyond  the requirements given to them by Moses in the Ten  Commandments, specially in the areas of murder, adultery, divorce, oaths, retaliation, and love.  (Mat 5:17- 48) Next He outlines what will be required in their spiritual acts of obedience to God in almsgiving, prayer, fasting, wealth, and judging.  (Mat 6:1-7:6) Then, after laying down all these very strict rules of conduct for his close servants, He gives them some very encouraging news.  Their Heavenly Father will be with them at all times to supply their needs and give success in their mission.  (Mat 7:7-11) Finely, He sums up this first training session by telling His chosen apostles that there will be opposition but the path He has set them on is the only one to true success.  (Mat 7:12-29) Luk 6:20 And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God. Mat 5:17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. Mat 7:29 For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

Matthew Luke    Mat 5:1 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: Mat 5:2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, Mat 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Mat 5:4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Mat 5:5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Mat 5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Mat 5:7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Mat 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Mat 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Mat 5:10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Mat 5:11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Mat 5:12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. Mat 5:13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Mat 5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Mat 5:15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Mat 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Mat 5:17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. Mat 5:18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Mat 5:19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. Mat 5:20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. Mat 5:21 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: Mat 5:22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. Mat 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Mat 5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. Mat 5:25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. Mat 5:26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing. Mat 5:27 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: Mat 5:28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. Mat 5:29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. Mat 5:30 And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. Mat 5:31 It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement: Mat 5:32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery. Mat 5:33 Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: Mat 5:34 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: Mat 5:35 Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Mat 5:36 Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. Mat 5:37 But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil. Mat 5:38 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: Mat 5:39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. Mat 5:40 And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. Mat 5:41 And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. Mat 5:42 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. Mat 5:43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. Mat 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; Mat 5:45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. Mat 5:46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? Mat 5:47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? Mat 5:48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Mat 6:1 Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Mat 6:2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. Mat 6:3 But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: Mat 6:4 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. Mat 6:5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. Mat 6:6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. Mat 6:7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Mat 6:8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. Mat 6:9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Mat 6:10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Mat 6:11 Give us this day our daily bread. Mat 6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. Mat 6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. Mat 6:14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: Mat 6:15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Mat 6:16 Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. Mat 6:17 But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; Mat 6:18 That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly. Mat 6:19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: Mat 6:20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: Mat 6:21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Mat 6:22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. Mat 6:23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! Mat 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Mat 6:25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Mat 6:26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Mat 6:27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? Mat 6:28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: Mat 6:29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Mat 6:30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Mat 6:31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? Mat 6:32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. Mat 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Mat 6:34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. Mat 7:1 Judge not, that ye be not judged. Mat 7:2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. Mat 7:3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Mat 7:4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Mat 7:5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. Mat 7:6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you. Mat 7:7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: Mat 7:8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Mat 7:9 Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Mat 7:10 Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? Mat 7:11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? Mat 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. Mat 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Mat 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. Mat 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Mat 7:16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Mat 7:17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. Mat 7:18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Mat 7:19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Mat 7:20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Mat 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Mat 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? Mat 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Mat 7:24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: Mat 7:25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. Mat 7:26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: Mat 7:27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. Mat 7:28 And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: Mat 7:29 For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.     Luk 6:20 And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God. Luk 6:21 Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh. Luk 6:22 Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. Luk 6:23 Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets. Luk 6:24 But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation. Luk 6:25 Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep. Luk 6:26 Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets. Luk 6:27 But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Luk 6:28 Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. Luk 6:29 And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not to take thy coat also. Luk 6:30 Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again. Luk 6:31 And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise. Luk 6:32 For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? for sinners also love those that love them. Luk 6:33 And if ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for sinners also do even the same. Luk 6:34 And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again. Luk 6:35 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. Luk 6:36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. Luk 6:37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: Luk 6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. Luk 6:39 And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch? Luk 6:40 The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master. Luk 6:41 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Luk 6:42 Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye. Luk 6:43 For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Luk 6:44 For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes. Luk 6:45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh. Luk 6:46 And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? Luk 6:47 Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like: Luk 6:48 He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. Luk 6:49 But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great. How can you possibly tell the whole world that two full chapters in Matthew, a  chapter and a half of Luke has very little application to their own personal lives? These are the passages that the Buddhists, the Hindus, the Moslems, the atheists point to as true Christianity and laugh up their sleeves because professing Christians make such feeble attempts to live up to them. Well, that's what I think needs to be told. I also think there is a possibility we ordinary sheep are not only held to quite different standards, but also should not have an expectation of being present at the "Wedding Feast".  (Must keep my eyes open for the back-up evidence in scripture)

A.D. 28 - Capernaum - Centurion’s Servant Healed

Jesus has been doing these miracles of healing with the purpose of establishing a belief in His chosen disciples and in the multitudes of other Jewish witnesses that He is the predicted messiah. Ironically, we have here a Gentile who catches on quicker than the Jews. Mat 8:7 And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him. Mat 8:8 The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. Mat 8:9 For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. Mat 8:10 When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. Mat 8:11 And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. Mat 8:12 But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Matthew Luke    Mat 8:5 And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him, Mat 8:6 And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented. Mat 8:7 And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him. Mat 8:8 The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. Mat 8:9 For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. Mat 8:10 When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. Mat 8:11 And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. Mat 8:12 But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Mat 8:13 And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.   Luk 7:1 Now when he had ended all his sayings in the audience of the people, he entered into Capernaum. Luk 7:2 And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear unto him, was sick, and ready to die. Luk 7:3 And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto him the elders of the Jews, beseeching him that he would come and heal his servant. Luk 7:4 And when they came to Jesus, they besought him instantly, saying, That he was worthy for whom he should do this: Luk 7:5 For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue. Luk 7:6 Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying unto him, Lord, trouble not thyself: for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof: Luk 7:7 Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed. Luk 7:8 For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. Luk 7:9 When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that followed him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. Luk 7:10 And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant whole that had been sick. The widow I take to be a Jew and likewise her dead son.  The centurion was a gentile and possibly his sick servant (but more likely a Jew).  Only the centurion asked for healing and that not for himself but for another. It doesn't seem to occur to the widow to ask for her son to be restored or of course were the wishes of the dead son a part of the miracle. So, the significance of the healing of the servant seems to be to demonstrate that God will reward the faith of the gentiles and punish the lack of faith of the children of Israel, the Jews. The purpose of the raising of the widows son would seem to be an outright demonstration of the signs and wonders to show Jesus to be the promised Messiah, the Son of God, the Redeemer.  It may be that Jesus has by this time collected all those worth or fit for apostleship or discipleship and is more concerned in open demonstration that the promised Messiah has come, thereby preparing the way for the sending out of the twelve and the seventy on their missionary tours.

A.D. 28 - Nain - Raises Widow’s Son from Dead

This is another demonstration to the Jews that He is the messiah, a quite successful one. Luk 7:16 And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people. Luk 7:17 And this rumour of him went forth throughout all Judaea, and throughout all the region round about.

Luke Luk 7:11 And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people. Luk 7:12 Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her. Luk 7:13 And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not. Luk 7:14 And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise. Luk 7:15 And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother. Luk 7:16 And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people. Luk 7:17 And this rumour of him went forth throughout all Judaea, and throughout all the region round about.

A.D. 28 - Galilee - Jesus Allays John’s Doubts

John is in prison facing a martyr's death for his faithful preaching of the need for repentance of sin. He know the water baptism which he offers is only step one.  He knows the world also needs the opportunity for a Spiritual baptism.  He knows only his cousin Jesus can offer that baptism and must be wishing as his time here on earth draws near to the end that his cousin would start preaching the need for the second baptism, the baptism of the Holy Spirit. But Jesus is not yet ready to do that.  He wants more time to train His disciples and God is willing to give the religious leaders more time to repent of their sins and save their jobs. Mat 11:13 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. Mat 11:14 And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come. Mat 11:15 He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. Mat 11:16 But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows, Mat 11:17 And saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not lamented. Mat 11:18 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He hath a devil. Mat 11:19 The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.

Matthew Luke    Mat 11:2 Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples, Mat 11:3 And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another? Mat 11:4 Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see: Mat 11:5 The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. Mat 11:6 And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me. Mat 11:7 And as they departed, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind? Mat 11:8 But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings' houses. Mat 11:9 But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet. Mat 11:10 For this is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. Mat 11:11 Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. Mat 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. Mat 11:13 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. Mat 11:14 And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come. Mat 11:15 He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. Mat 11:16 But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows, Mat 11:17 And saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not lamented. Mat 11:18 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He hath a devil. Mat 11:19 The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.   Luk 7:18 And the disciples of John shewed him of all these things. Luk 7:19 And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another? Luk 7:20 When the men were come unto him, they said, John Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another? Luk 7:21 And in that same hour he cured many of their infirmities and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind he gave sight. Luk 7:22 Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached. Luk 7:23 And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me. Luk 7:24 And when the messengers of John were departed, he began to speak unto the people concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness for to see? A reed shaken with the wind? Luk 7:25 But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously apparelled, and live delicately, are in kings' courts. Luk 7:26 But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet. Luk 7:27 This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. Luk 7:28 For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he. Luk 7:29 And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. Luk 7:30 But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him. Luk 7:31 And the Lord said, Whereunto then shall I liken the men of this generation? and to what are they like? Luk 7:32 They are like unto children sitting in the marketplace, and calling one to another, and saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned to you, and ye have not wept. Luk 7:33 For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine; and ye say, He hath a devil. Luk 7:34 The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners! Luk 7:35 But wisdom is justified of all her children. Strange John should doubt Jesus as Messiah. He saw the Dove and heard God's voice when he baptized Jesus. He leaped in his mother's womb when Mary walked in the room a few months pregnant. But now that he has reports of the fulfilled prophesy of acts of healing, I would assume that should be enough to satisfy his lingering doubt, or of anyone else versed in Old Testament Scripture, especially lawyers and Pharisees.

A.D. 28 - Galilee - Woes Upon the Privileged

The message in this event shows the extreme importance of repentance. There is no hope for a person, a city or a church which does not recognize the realty of sin and the need for repentance. Mat 11:20 Then began he to upbraid the cities wherein most of his mighty works were done, because they repented not:

Matthew Mat 11:20 Then began he to upbraid the cities wherein most of his mighty works were done, because they repented not: Mat 11:21 Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. Mat 11:22 But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment, than for you. Mat 11:23 And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. Mat 11:24 But I say unto you, That it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment, than for thee. Mat 11:25 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Mat 11:26 Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight. Mat 11:27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him. Mat 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Mat 11:29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Mat 11:30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.   The person who prepared the "Harmony" in my study Bible probably made a mistake here. This passage (Mat 11:20-30) Mat 11:20 Then began he to upbraid the cities wherein most of his mighty works were done, because they repented not: Mat 11:21 Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. Mat 11:22 But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment, than for you. Mat 11:23 And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. Mat 11:24 But I say unto you, That it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment, than for thee. Mat 11:25 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Mat 11:26 Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight. Mat 11:27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him. Mat 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Mat 11:29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Mat 11:30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. is the same as Luke 10:13-24 Luk 10:13 Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. Luk 10:14 But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment, than for you. Luk 10:15 And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell. Luk 10:16 He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me. Luk 10:17 And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name. Luk 10:18 And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. Luk 10:19 Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Luk 10:20 Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. Luk 10:21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. Luk 10:22 All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him. Luk 10:23 And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see: Luk 10:24 For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them. concerning the mission of the seventy. Putting it here, puts it prior to a few more significant events in the area in question in which Jesus received marked occurrences of rejection.

A.D. 28 - Simon's House, Capernaum - A Sinful Woman Anoints Jesus

Jesus leaves unanswered the question "who is this that forgiveth sins also?' His miracles have revealed His divinity to the sinful woman but the wise Pharisee is still blind. Luk 7:48 And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. Luk 7:49 And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? Luk 7:50 And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.

Luke Luk 7:36 And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to meat. Luk 7:37 And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, Luk 7:38 And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. Luk 7:39 Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner. Luk 7:40 And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on. Luk 7:41 There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. Luk 7:42 And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most? Luk 7:43 Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. Luk 7:44 And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. Luk 7:45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. Luk 7:46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. Luk 7:47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. Luk 7:48 And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. Luk 7:49 And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? Luk 7:50 And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace. Here's the parable of the two debtors: The Pharisee - wise and prudent Mat 11:25 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. who because of his position of trust and learning owes much fruit. The woman - a babe in learning - owing little in fruit. Apparently each had no fruit from their position as members of the chosen (Jews). Strange that neither came right out asking forgiveness for their lack of fruit but Jesus' message had been one of the need of all for repentance.  The woman by her actions was showing her acceptance of his call; the Pharisee by his, showing his rejection.

A.D. 28 - Galilee - Another Tour of Galilee

The plus side of this mission tour of Jesus' home territory is that He is building up the faith in His close core group of followers. Luk 8:1 And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him,

Luke Luk 8:1 And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him, Luk 8:2 And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils, Luk 8:3 And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance. Even though he (Jesus) had the aid of the twelve chosen apostles and the financial aid of three fairly well-to-do women and "many others", this tour was remarkable for its lack of fruit, particularly the three cities on the north shore of the Sea of Galilee.

A.D. 28 - Capernaum - Jesus Accuses the Pharisees of Blasphemy

By hindering Jesus' appeal for repentance, by accusing Him of working for Satan, the religious leaders show themselves beyond redemption and that their system of service for God must be abolished. Mat 12:28 But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you.

Matthew Mark  Luke    Mat 12:22 Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb: and he healed him, insomuch that the blind and dumb both spake and saw. Mat 12:23 And all the people were amazed, and said, Is not this the son of David? Mat 12:24 But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This fellow doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils. Mat 12:25 And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand: Mat 12:26 And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand? Mat 12:27 And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? therefore they shall be your judges. Mat 12:28 But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you. Mat 12:29 Or else how can one enter into a strong man's house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? and then he will spoil his house. Mat 12:30 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad. Mat 12:31 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. Mat 12:32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come. Mat 12:33 Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit. Mat 12:34 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. Mat 12:35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. Mat 12:36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. Mat 12:37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.   Mar 3:20 And the multitude cometh together again, so that they could not so much as eat bread. Mar 3:21 And when his friends heard of it, they went out to lay hold on him: for they said, He is beside himself. Mar 3:22 And the scribes which came down from Jerusalem said, He hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils casteth he out devils. Mar 3:23 And he called them unto him, and said unto them in parables, How can Satan cast out Satan? Mar 3:24 And if a kingdom be divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. Mar 3:25 And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand. Mar 3:26 And if Satan rise up against himself, and be divided, he cannot stand, but hath an end. Mar 3:27 No man can enter into a strong man's house, and spoil his goods, except he will first bind the strong man; and then he will spoil his house. Mar 3:28 Verily I say unto you, All sins shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and blasphemies wherewith soever they shall blaspheme: Mar 3:29 But he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost hath never forgiveness, but is in danger of eternal damnation: Mar 3:30 Because they said, He hath an unclean spirit.   Luk 11:14 And he was casting out a devil, and it was dumb. And it came to pass, when the devil was gone out, the dumb spake; and the people wondered. Luk 11:15 But some of them said, He casteth out devils through Beelzebub the chief of the devils. Luk 11:16 And others, tempting him, sought of him a sign from heaven. Luk 11:17 But he, knowing their thoughts, said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and a house divided against a house falleth. Luk 11:18 If Satan also be divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? because ye say that I cast out devils through Beelzebub. Luk 11:19 And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your sons cast them out? therefore shall they be your judges. Luk 11:20 But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you. Luk 11:21 When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace: Luk 11:22 But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils. Luk 11:23 He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth. Here again in Capernaum scribes and Pharisees  witness a major act of healing by Jesus. The common people accept him as "the Son of David". However those most educated in scripture and who could have the most influence in turning others to Jesus and his message of repentance not just remain skeptical, but grant the miracle and accuse Jesus of doing it through the power of Satan, an unpardonable sin against the Holy Spirit. In Matthew 11:20-30 Mat 11:20 Then began he to upbraid the cities wherein most of his mighty works were done, because they repented not: Mat 11:21 Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. Mat 11:22 But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment, than for you. Mat 11:23 And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. Mat 11:24 But I say unto you, That it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment, than for thee. Mat 11:25 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Mat 11:26 Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight. Mat 11:27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him. Mat 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Mat 11:29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Mat 11:30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. and Luke 10:1-16 Luk 10:1 After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come. Luk 10:2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest. Luk 10:3 Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves. Luk 10:4 Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no man by the way. Luk 10:5 And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house. Luk 10:6 And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it: if not, it shall turn to you again. Luk 10:7 And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house. Luk 10:8 And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you: Luk 10:9 And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. Luk 10:10 But into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you not, go your ways out into the streets of the same, and say, Luk 10:11 Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you: notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. Luk 10:12 But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable in that day for Sodom, than for that city. Luk 10:13 Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. Luk 10:14 But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment, than for you. Luk 10:15 And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell. Luk 10:16 He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me. Jesus says some very harsh words against the city of Capernaum.  In this instance the "locals" seem to accept him; it was Pharisees from Jerusalem who offended.

 

A.D. 28 - Capernaum - Jesus’ Answer to a Demand for a Sign

By comparing Himself to Jonah Jesus here predicts His coming death, burial and resurrection - but in a way that not even His closest follower can, at this time, grasp His meaning. Mat 12:40 For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.

Matthew Luke    Mat 12:38 Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee. Mat 12:39 But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: Mat 12:40 For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. Mat 12:41 The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here. Mat 12:42 The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here. Mat 12:43 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none. Mat 12:44 Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished. Mat 12:45 Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.   Luk 11:24 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out. Luk 11:25 And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished. Luk 11:26 Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Luk 11:27 And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked. Luk 11:28 But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it. Luk 11:29 And when the people were gathered thick together, he began to say, This is an evil generation: they seek a sign; and there shall no sign be given it, but the sign of Jonas the prophet. Luk 11:30 For as Jonas was a sign unto the Ninevites, so shall also the Son of man be to this generation. Luk 11:31 The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation, and condemn them: for she came from the utmost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here. Luk 11:32 The men of Nineve shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here. Luk 11:33 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light. Luk 11:34 The light of the body is the eye: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light; but when thine eye is evil, thy body also is full of darkness. Luk 11:35 Take heed therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness. Luk 11:36 If thy whole body therefore be full of light, having no part dark, the whole shall be full of light, as when the bright shining of a candle doth give thee light. The Pharisees seem to ask more than twice for a sign from heaven that he is truly the "Son of David" as the common folks believe.  He implies the miracles of healing are enough. But he then hints that a big one is coming.  Like Jonah in the whale three days, he, Jesus will spend three days buried in the earth.  Here again, he does not tell them directly to trust in his as the perfect sacrifice. I must keep looking for when that happens.  I suspect he never makes that declaration to the public but delegates that job to his eye witness disciples. When he brings up Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, I have to assume he (Jesus) has demonstrated feats of wisdom to the Pharisees which should have knocked their socks off. Mat 13:54 And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this man this wisdom, and these mighty works? The parable of the candle which Luke places here seem to have no relevance and placed here in the "Harmony" in error.  It should be two events further on. The passage about unclean spirits returning to a clean house is hard for me to follow. I take to be explained in 2 Peter 2.  This passage seems close to being a parable but is not listed among his parables in my Bible.  Whatever, I assume Peter was right there when Jesus threw it at the Pharisees and that Peter got the meaning and the Pharisees didn't.  My take is that Jesus knew their hearts; if he gave them an undeniable sign from heaven they would repent but would shortly relapse and be in worse sin than before.

A.D. 28 - Capernaum - Mother, Brothers Seek Audience

What a compliment, what a source of inspiration to His close followers!  Jesus informs them that they mean more to Him than His actual brothers and even His mother. Mat 12:49 And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! Mat 12:50 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.

Matthew Mark  Luke    Mat 12:46 While he yet talked to the people, behold, his mother and his brethren stood without, desiring to speak with him. Mat 12:47 Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee. Mat 12:48 But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren? Mat 12:49 And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! Mat 12:50 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.   Mar 3:31 There came then his brethren and his mother, and, standing without, sent unto him, calling him. Mar 3:32 And the multitude sat about him, and they said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without seek for thee. Mar 3:33 And he answered them, saying, Who is my mother, or my brethren? Mar 3:34 And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! Mar 3:35 For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother.   Luk 8:19 Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for the press. Luk 8:20 And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee. Luk 8:21 And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it. So, not yet in Capernaum did even his mother, brothers and sisters accept Jesus as "Son of David". I assume that would have been enough to get them into the "club" of "true brethren". Or must one go so far as to give up all and become a follower/disciple/apostle? Whatever, I think this statement of Jesus defining "brethren" sheds much light on Matthew 25 (Judgment of the Gentiles) concerning who gets to be a sheep rather than a goat based on how they treated "the least of these my brethren". It could be that Mary did not become "a brethren" until at the foot of the cross; and then Jesus said to John: "behold your mother".

A.D. 28 - By Sea of Galilee - Famous Parables of Sower, Seed, Tares, Mustard Seed, Leaven, Treasure, Pearl, Dragnet, Lamp Told

Why does Jesus speak so much to the multitudes in parables? The answer is in Mat 13:10 - 11.  Mat 13:10 And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables? Mat 13:11 He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. This is the greatest parable of all.  What's the difference between disciples and the multitude? Disciples are those who have accepted what has been Jesus' message up to this point.  They accept the fact that they are sinners, they accept Jesus' claim to be the promised Messiah, and they want to know more about the Kingdom of Heaven. The rest of the multitude have not accepted the fact that they are sinners, have not repented of their sins, and do not believe Jesus is the promised Messiah.  They are not ready to understand the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven. Luke 8:18 is also a parable and can be explained as follows: Whosoever has the rebirth of water which comes from repentance can receive the second rebirth, the baptism of the spirit; whosoever has not repented of his sins loses the opportunity for spiritual rebirth and those in high positions of spiritual authority will lose those positions. Mat 13:35 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world. Luk 8:18 Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.

Matthew Mark  Luke    Mat 13:1 The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side. Mat 13:2 And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore. Mat 13:3 And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; Mat 13:4 And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: Mat 13:5 Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: Mat 13:6 And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. Mat 13:7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: Mat 13:8 But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. Mat 13:9 Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. Mat 13:10 And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables? Mat 13:11 He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. Mat 13:12 For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath. Mat 13:13 Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. Mat 13:14 And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: Mat 13:15 For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them. Mat 13:16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear. Mat 13:17 For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them. Mat 13:18 Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower. Mat 13:19 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. Mat 13:20 But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; Mat 13:21 Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended. Mat 13:22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. Mat 13:23 But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. Mat 13:24 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: Mat 13:25 But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. Mat 13:26 But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. Mat 13:27 So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares? Mat 13:28 He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up? Mat 13:29 But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. Mat 13:30 Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn. Mat 13:31 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: Mat 13:32 Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof. Mat 13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. Mat 13:34 All these things spake Jesus unto the multitude in parables; and without a parable spake he not unto them: Mat 13:35 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world. Mat 13:36 Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field. Mat 13:37 He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man; Mat 13:38 The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one; Mat 13:39 The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels. Mat 13:40 As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. Mat 13:41 The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; Mat 13:42 And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Mat 13:43 Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. Mat 13:44 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. Mat 13:45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Mat 13:46 Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. Mat 13:47 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind: Mat 13:48 Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away. Mat 13:49 So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, Mat 13:50 And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Mat 13:51 Jesus saith unto them, Have ye understood all these things? They say unto him, Yea, Lord. Mat 13:52 Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.   Mar 4:1 And he began again to teach by the sea side: and there was gathered unto him a great multitude, so that he entered into a ship, and sat in the sea; and the whole multitude was by the sea on the land. Mar 4:2 And he taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine, Mar 4:3 Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow: Mar 4:4 And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up. Mar 4:5 And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth: Mar 4:6 But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away. Mar 4:7 And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit. Mar 4:8 And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred. Mar 4:9 And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. Mar 4:10 And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable. Mar 4:11 And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: Mar 4:12 That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them. Mar 4:13 And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables? Mar 4:14 The sower soweth the word. Mar 4:15 And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts. Mar 4:16 And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; Mar 4:17 And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended. Mar 4:18 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, Mar 4:19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. Mar 4:20 And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred. Mar 4:21 And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick? Mar 4:22 For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad. Mar 4:23 If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. Mar 4:24 And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given. Mar 4:25 For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath. Mar 4:26 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; Mar 4:27 And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. Mar 4:28 For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear. Mar 4:29 But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come. Mar 4:30 And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it? Mar 4:31 It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth: Mar 4:32 But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it. Mar 4:33 And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it. Mar 4:34 But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples.   Luk 8:4 And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable: Luk 8:5 A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it. Luk 8:6 And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. Luk 8:7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. Luk 8:8 And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. Luk 8:9 And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be? Luk 8:10 And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand. Luk 8:11 Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. Luk 8:12 Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. Luk 8:13 They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. Luk 8:14 And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. Luk 8:15 But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience. Luk 8:16 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light. Luk 8:17 For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad. Luk 8:18 Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have. All concern "the Kingdom of God."  The first two, "The Sower" and "The Tares" Jesus goes on to explain to his disciples. Apparently they were the key to the disciples understanding all other parables. I will have to somehow make a worksheet of what equals what in these two and then, using that list as a key, apply it to the seven remaining parables.  Hopefully that will clear up some of the puzzles for me.

A.D. 28 - Sea of Galilee - Sea Made Serene

This event is another lesson for His disciples that  Jesus is God. Mat 8:27 But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!

Matthew Mark  Luke    Mat 8:23 And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him. Mat 8:24 And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep. Mat 8:25 And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish. Mat 8:26 And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. Mat 8:27 But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!   Mar 4:35 And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. Mar 4:36 And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships. Mar 4:37 And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. Mar 4:38 And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? Mar 4:39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. Mar 4:40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? Mar 4:41 And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?   Luk 8:22 Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth. Luk 8:23 But as they sailed he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy. Luk 8:24 And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm. Luk 8:25 And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him. Jesus must have known a storm was brewing before he left shore. So, no doubt, the whole episode was for the benefit of his disciples. He demonstrated his power as described at least three times in Psalms - power to calm a storm, thereby increasing their faith.

 

A.D. 28 - East Shore of Galilee - Gadarene Demoniac Healed

This seems to be a turning point in Jesus' ministry The healed person like others healed in the past recognized that Jesus is God.  Up to now Jesus told them to keep that information to themselves.  Now Jesus is willing that it be published to the world. Luk 8:38 Now the man out of whom the devils were departed besought him that he might be with him: but Jesus sent him away, saying, Luk 8:39 Return to thine own house, and shew how great things God hath done unto thee. And he went his way, and published throughout the whole city how great things Jesus had done unto him.

Matthew  Mark  Luke    Mat 8:28 And when he was come to the other side into the country of the Gergesenes, there met him two possessed with devils, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man might pass by that way. Mat 8:29 And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time? Mat 8:30 And there was a good way off from them an herd of many swine feeding. Mat 8:31 So the devils besought him, saying, If thou cast us out, suffer us to go away into the herd of swine. Mat 8:32 And he said unto them, Go. And when they were come out, they went into the herd of swine: and, behold, the whole herd of swine ran violently down a steep place into the sea, and perished in the waters. Mat 8:33 And they that kept them fled, and went their ways into the city, and told every thing, and what was befallen to the possessed of the devils. Mat 8:34 And, behold, the whole city came out to meet Jesus: and when they saw him, they besought him that he would depart out of their coasts.     Mar 5:1 And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes. Mar 5:2 And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, Mar 5:3 Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains: Mar 5:4 Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him. Mar 5:5 And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones. Mar 5:6 But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him, Mar 5:7 And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not. Mar 5:8 For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit. Mar 5:9 And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many. Mar 5:10 And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country. Mar 5:11 Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding. Mar 5:12 And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them. Mar 5:13 And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea. Mar 5:14 And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that was done. Mar 5:15 And they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid. Mar 5:16 And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine. Mar 5:17 And they began to pray him to depart out of their coasts. Mar 5:18 And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him. Mar 5:19 Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee. Mar 5:20 And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.   Luk 8:26 And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is over against Galilee. Luk 8:27 And when he went forth to land, there met him out of the city a certain man, which had devils long time, and ware no clothes, neither abode in any house, but in the tombs. Luk 8:28 When he saw Jesus, he cried out, and fell down before him, and with a loud voice said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God most high? I beseech thee, torment me not. Luk 8:29 (For he had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. For oftentimes it had caught him: and he was kept bound with chains and in fetters; and he brake the bands, and was driven of the devil into the wilderness.) Luk 8:30 And Jesus asked him, saying, What is thy name? And he said, Legion: because many devils were entered into him. Luk 8:31 And they besought him that he would not command them to go out into the deep. Luk 8:32 And there was there an herd of many swine feeding on the mountain: and they besought him that he would suffer them to enter into them. And he suffered them. Luk 8:33 Then went the devils out of the man, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the lake, and were choked. Luk 8:34 When they that fed them saw what was done, they fled, and went and told it in the city and in the country. Luk 8:35 Then they went out to see what was done; and came to Jesus, and found the man, out of whom the devils were departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid. Luk 8:36 They also which saw it told them by what means he that was possessed of the devils was healed. Luk 8:37 Then the whole multitude of the country of the Gadarenes round about besought him to depart from them; for they were taken with great fear: and he went up into the ship, and returned back again. Luk 8:38 Now the man out of whom the devils were departed besought him that he might be with him: but Jesus sent him away, saying, Luk 8:39 Return to thine own house, and shew how great things God hath done unto thee. And he went his way, and published throughout the whole city how great things Jesus had done unto him. What an interesting passage; it is not the first to mention humans within whom demons, unclean spirits, devils, whatever are residing. These spirits seem always to recognize Jesus for what he is right away.  They seem to need a live human or animal body within which to reside or bad consequences happen to them. Here, they will have to go out into the deep (or abyss) (Luke 8:31) Luk 8:31 And they besought him that he would not command them to go out into the deep. Looks to me their next stop would be hell. I also have to wonder about Jesus' instructions to the human after he was cured of demon possession.  He wanted to follow (become a disciple?) and Jesus turned him down.  But contrary to the instructions to the cured in the past, he was not told to keep it to himself; he was told to "return to thine house and shew how great things God hath done unto thee." Did he go overboard when he "published" to the whole city?? Whatever, could this be a turning point in Jesus' ministry.  The ex demonic seems to go south to Decapolis, Jesus goes north back to the unreceptive people of Galilee.  The ex demonic thereby being something of a "front man" for Jesus' "Perean" tour of six months or a year later.

A.D. 28 - East Shore of Galilee - Jairus’ Daughter Raised and Woman with Hemorrhage Healed

Matthew Mark  Luke    Mat 9:18 While he spake these things unto them, behold, there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him, saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live. Mat 9:19 And Jesus arose, and followed him, and so did his disciples. Mat 9:20 And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment: Mat 9:21 For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. Mat 9:22 But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour. Mat 9:23 And when Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the minstrels and the people making a noise, Mat 9:24 He said unto them, Give place: for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn. Mat 9:25 But when the people were put forth, he went in, and took her by the hand, and the maid arose. Mat 9:26 And the fame hereof went abroad into all that land.   Mar 5:21 And when Jesus was passed over again by ship unto the other side, much people gathered unto him: and he was nigh unto the sea. Mar 5:22 And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him, he fell at his feet, Mar 5:23 And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live. Mar 5:24 And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged him. Mar 5:25 And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, Mar 5:26 And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse, Mar 5:27 When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment. Mar 5:28 For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole. Mar 5:29 And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague. Mar 5:30 And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes? Mar 5:31 And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? Mar 5:32 And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing. Mar 5:33 But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. Mar 5:34 And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague. Mar 5:35 While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue's house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further? Mar 5:36 As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe. Mar 5:37 And he suffered no man to follow him, save Peter, and James, and John the brother of James. Mar 5:38 And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and seeth the tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly. Mar 5:39 And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth. Mar 5:40 And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying. Mar 5:41 And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise. Mar 5:42 And straightway the damsel arose, and walked; for she was of the age of twelve years. And they were astonished with a great astonishment. Mar 5:43 And he charged them straitly that no man should know it; and commanded that something should be given her to eat.   Luk 8:40 And it came to pass, that, when Jesus was returned, the people gladly received him: for they were all waiting for him. Luk 8:41 And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus' feet, and besought him that he would come into his house: Luk 8:42 For he had one only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she lay a dying. But as he went the people thronged him. Luk 8:43 And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any, Luk 8:44 Came behind him, and touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue of blood stanched. Luk 8:45 And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied, Peter and they that were with him said, Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? Luk 8:46 And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me. Luk 8:47 And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately. Luk 8:48 And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace. Luk 8:49 While he yet spake, there cometh one from the ruler of the synagogue's house, saying to him, Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the Master. Luk 8:50 But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole. Luk 8:51 And when he came into the house, he suffered no man to go in, save Peter, and James, and John, and the father and the mother of the maiden. Luk 8:52 And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth. Luk 8:53 And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead. Luk 8:54 And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called, saying, Maid, arise. Luk 8:55 And her spirit came again, and she arose straightway: and he commanded to give her meat. Luk 8:56 And her parents were astonished: but he charged them that they should tell no man what was done. Both these miracles appear to have taken place in an area on the north shore of the Sea of Galilee.  The area specifically chided for its lack of receptivity to Jesus. The people flock around Jesus expecting to be healed.  A religious leader comes to him for help for his daughter.  He is an eye witness to her resurrection from the dead and yet the area apparently still does not accept Jesus as "the Son of David".  Jesus can read hearts; maybe that is why he tells the parents "they should tell no man what was done."  It would make the sin of unbelief of the community even greater.

A.D. 28 - East Shore of Galilee - Two Blind Men’s Sight Restored

Matthew Mat 9:27 And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, Thou Son of David, have mercy on us. Mat 9:28 And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to him: and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said unto him, Yea, Lord. Mat 9:29 Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you. Mat 9:30 And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, See that no man know it. Mat 9:31 But they, when they were departed, spread abroad his fame in all that country. Again the common people are healed; a devil cast out through faith.  Again Pharisees not only scoff but accuse Jesus of operating through the power of Satan. Again the healed told to keep it to themselves but don't.  Why are they so instructed??

A.D. 28 - East Shore of Galilee - Mute Demoniac Healed

Matthew Mat 9:32 As they went out, behold, they brought to him a dumb man possessed with a devil. Mat 9:33 And when the devil was cast out, the dumb spake: and the multitudes marvelled, saying, It was never so seen in Israel. Mat 9:34 But the Pharisees said, He casteth out devils through the prince of the devils.

A.D. 28 - Nazareth - Nazareth’s Second Rejection of Christ

Matthew Mark   Mat 13:53 And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these parables, he departed thence. Mat 13:54 And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this man this wisdom, and these mighty works? Mat 13:55 Is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? Mat 13:56 And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things? Mat 13:57 And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house. Mat 13:58 And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.     Mar 6:1 And he went out from thence, and came into his own country; and his disciples follow him. Mar 6:2 And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands? Mar 6:3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him. Mar 6:4 But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house. Mar 6:5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. Mar 6:6 And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching.   Which all goes to prove what?  Maybe something to do with how hard it is for people to embrace change. The most important thing for a person who is lost is to admit he is going in the wrong direction.  It is apparent that Jesus as a child and as a young adult showed not outwardly to be the Son of David, the Christ, the Messiah, a person with miraculous powers.  The people he grew up with had their perceptions of Jesus and for them more so than for others, it took dynamite to get them to change. However, some did; for sure his mother and a brother after he arose from the dead.

A.D. 28 - Nazareth - Twelve Sent Out

The mission of the apostles was not for the Samaritans, not for the gentiles, was not a message of salvation.  Its purpose was to give the Jews another call to repentance. But above that, its purpose was to show the apostles the resentment from loved ones they will experience as servants of Jesus; to harden them for the task ahead of telling the world the good news of salvation through the death, burial, and resurrection of the Savior. Mat 10:34 Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. Mat 10:35 For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.

Matthew Mark Luke   Mat 9:35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. Mat 9:36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Mat 9:37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Mat 9:38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. Mat 10:1 And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease. Mat 10:2 Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Mat 10:3 Philip, and Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus; Mat 10:4 Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him. Mat 10:5 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: Mat 10:6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Mat 10:7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Mat 10:8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. Mat 10:9 Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, Mat 10:10 Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat. Mat 10:11 And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence. Mat 10:12 And when ye come into an house, salute it. Mat 10:13 And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you. Mat 10:14 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet. Mat 10:15 Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city. Mat 10:16 Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. Mat 10:17 But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues; Mat 10:18 And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. Mat 10:19 But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. Mat 10:20 For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you. Mat 10:21 And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death. Mat 10:22 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. Mat 10:23 But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come. Mat 10:24 The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. Mat 10:25 It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household? Mat 10:26 Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known. Mat 10:27 What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. Mat 10:28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Mat 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. Mat 10:30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Mat 10:31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. Mat 10:32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. Mat 10:33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. Mat 10:34 Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. Mat 10:35 For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. Mat 10:36 And a man's foes shall be they of his own household. Mat 10:37 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. Mat 10:38 And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. Mat 10:39 He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it. Mat 10:40 He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. Mat 10:41 He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward. Mat 10:42 And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward. Mat 11:1 And it came to pass, when Jesus had made an end of commanding his twelve disciples, he departed thence to teach and to preach in their cities.     Mar 6:6 And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching. Mar 6:7 And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits; Mar 6:8 And commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse: Mar 6:9 But be shod with sandals; and not put on two coats. Mar 6:10 And he said unto them, In what place soever ye enter into an house, there abide till ye depart from that place. Mar 6:11 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city. Mar 6:12 And they went out, and preached that men should repent. Mar 6:13 And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.     Luk 9:1 Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. Luk 9:2 And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick. Luk 9:3 And he said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece. Luk 9:4 And whatsoever house ye enter into, there abide, and thence depart. Luk 9:5 And whosoever will not receive you, when ye go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet for a testimony against them. Luk 9:6 And they departed, and went through the towns, preaching the gospel, and healing every where.   Here I would specially note: 1. Matthew calls the twelve "apostles" in addition to "disciples".  Is this the first time? (yes) 2. They are to go only to "lost sheep of the House of Israel", not to gentiles, not to Samaritans.  Why?  I would take a guess: so as to give them a little more rope with which to hang themselves.  I must watch to see how soon it is until he does give the ok to go to Samaria and the rest of the world. Probably not till the great commission. 3 They are to preach "The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand" and heal the sick (to do which they are given special power) and to preach repentance. Mar 6:12 And they went out, and preached that men should repent. 4. They were to take the bare bones of clothes, no money and to live from their preaching of the gospel. 5. It seems quite clear they were successful in healing. There is no indication if any received the message "repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand." 6. Clearly it is to go hard on those who reject but there does seem to be a special blessing on those who receive the apostles to the extent of giving them food, water, and shelter. 7. Could it be this mission was more of a test for the apostles to see if they would remain steadfast under adversity?

A.D. 28 - Galilee - Fearful Herod Beheads John

Matthew Mark Luke   Mat 14:1 At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus, Mat 14:2 And said unto his servants, This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead; and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him. Mat 14:3 For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife. Mat 14:4 For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her. Mat 14:5 And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet. Mat 14:6 But when Herod's birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod. Mat 14:7 Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would ask. Mat 14:8 And she, being before instructed of her mother, said, Give me here John Baptist's head in a charger. Mat 14:9 And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her. Mat 14:10 And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison. Mat 14:11 And his head was brought in a charger, and given to the damsel: and she brought it to her mother. Mat 14:12 And his disciples came, and took up the body, and buried it, and went and told Jesus.     Mar 6:14 And king Herod heard of him; (for his name was spread abroad:) and he said, That John the Baptist was risen from the dead, and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him. Mar 6:15 Others said, That it is Elias. And others said, That it is a prophet, or as one of the prophets. Mar 6:16 But when Herod heard thereof, he said, It is John, whom I beheaded: he is risen from the dead. Mar 6:17 For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife: for he had married her. Mar 6:18 For John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother's wife. Mar 6:19 Therefore Herodias had a quarrel against him, and would have killed him; but she could not: Mar 6:20 For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an holy, and observed him; and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly. Mar 6:21 And when a convenient day was come, that Herod on his birthday made a supper to his lords, high captains, and chief estates of Galilee; Mar 6:22 And when the daughter of the said Herodias came in, and danced, and pleased Herod and them that sat with him, the king said unto the damsel, Ask of me whatsoever thou wilt, and I will give it thee. Mar 6:23 And he sware unto her, Whatsoever thou shalt ask of me, I will give it thee, unto the half of my kingdom. Mar 6:24 And she went forth, and said unto her mother, What shall I ask? And she said, The head of John the Baptist. Mar 6:25 And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and asked, saying, I will that thou give me by and by in a charger the head of John the Baptist. Mar 6:26 And the king was exceeding sorry; yet for his oath's sake, and for their sakes which sat with him, he would not reject her. Mar 6:27 And immediately the king sent an executioner, and commanded his head to be brought: and he went and beheaded him in the prison, Mar 6:28 And brought his head in a charger, and gave it to the damsel: and the damsel gave it to her mother. Mar 6:29 And when his disciples heard of it, they came and took up his corpse, and laid it in a tomb.     Luk 9:6 And they departed, and went through the towns, preaching the gospel, and healing every where. Luk 9:7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by him: and he was perplexed, because that it was said of some, that John was risen from the dead; Luk 9:8 And of some, that Elias had appeared; and of others, that one of the old prophets was risen again. Luk 9:9 And Herod said, John have I beheaded: but who is this, of whom I hear such things? And he desired to see him.   How did  John face death?  It would seem his disciples had time to get back with confirmation that Jesus was the Messiah. His faith was well founded. How did Jesus face the news of John's death.  He must have known that he was next.  That last of the great line of prophets had been beheaded. He, himself was rejected in his own home town, the common Jews mainly received him as a healer but few seem to repent and accept his message of the coming Kingdom.  The world was showing the only way for its salvation was his death, burial, and resurrection.

Spring A.D. 29 - Near Bethsaida - Return of 12, Jesus Withdraws, 5000 Fed

Matthew Mark Luke John   Mat 14:13 When Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart: and when the people had heard thereof, they followed him on foot out of the cities. Mat 14:14 And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick. Mat 14:15 And when it was evening, his disciples came to him, saying, This is a desert place, and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves victuals. Mat 14:16 But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat. Mat 14:17 And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes. Mat 14:18 He said, Bring them hither to me. Mat 14:19 And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. Mat 14:20 And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full. Mat 14:21 And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.     Mar 6:30 And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, and told him all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught. Mar 6:31 And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat. Mar 6:32 And they departed into a desert place by ship privately. Mar 6:33 And the people saw them departing, and many knew him, and ran afoot thither out of all cities, and outwent them, and came together unto him. Mar 6:34 And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things. Mar 6:35 And when the day was now far spent, his disciples came unto him, and said, This is a desert place, and now the time is far passed: Mar 6:36 Send them away, that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread: for they have nothing to eat. Mar 6:37 He answered and said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, Shall we go and buy two hundred pennyworth of bread, and give them to eat? Mar 6:38 He saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? go and see. And when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes. Mar 6:39 And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass. Mar 6:40 And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties. Mar 6:41 And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all. Mar 6:42 And they did all eat, and were filled. Mar 6:43 And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes. Mar 6:44 And they that did eat of the loaves were about five thousand men.     Luk 9:10 And the apostles, when they were returned, told him all that they had done. And he took them, and went aside privately into a desert place belonging to the city called Bethsaida. Luk 9:11 And the people, when they knew it, followed him: and he received them, and spake unto them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing. Luk 9:12 And when the day began to wear away, then came the twelve, and said unto him, Send the multitude away, that they may go into the towns and country round about, and lodge, and get victuals: for we are here in a desert place. Luk 9:13 But he said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they said, We have no more but five loaves and two fishes; except we should go and buy meat for all this people. Luk 9:14 For they were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, Make them sit down by fifties in a company. Luk 9:15 And they did so, and made them all sit down. Luk 9:16 Then he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed them, and brake, and gave to the disciples to set before the multitude. Luk 9:17 And they did eat, and were all filled: and there was taken up of fragments that remained to them twelve baskets.     Joh 6:1 After these things Jesus went over the sea of Galilee, which is the sea of Tiberias. Joh 6:2 And a great multitude followed him, because they saw his miracles which he did on them that were diseased. Joh 6:3 And Jesus went up into a mountain, and there he sat with his disciples. Joh 6:4 And the passover, a feast of the Jews, was nigh. Joh 6:5 When Jesus then lifted up his eyes, and saw a great company come unto him, he saith unto Philip, Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat? Joh 6:6 And this he said to prove him: for he himself knew what he would do. Joh 6:7 Philip answered him, Two hundred pennyworth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may take a little. Joh 6:8 One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, saith unto him, Joh 6:9 There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many? Joh 6:10 And Jesus said, Make the men sit down. Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. Joh 6:11 And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would. Joh 6:12 When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. Joh 6:13 Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten. Joh 6:14 Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world.   Strange, the return of the twelve is mentioned by Mark and Luke (not of the twelve) but not mentioned by Matthew and John (Who were).  Wouldn't it be of interest how they were received, how long gone, ant converts?  I can only assume their work was underwhelming.  But Jesus continues to heal, draw large crowds, "spake unto them of the Kingdom of God", and a real eye opener - fed 5,000 with five loaves and two fishes. This tops Elijah's miracle in 2 Kings 4:43 2Ki 4:42 And there came a man from Baalshalisha, and brought the man of God bread of the firstfruits, twenty loaves of barley, and full ears of corn in the husk thereof. And he said, Give unto the people, that they may eat. 2Ki 4:43 And his servitor said, What, should I set this before an hundred men? He said again, Give the people, that they may eat: for thus saith the LORD, They shall eat, and shall leave thereof. 2Ki 4:44 So he set it before them, and they did eat, and left thereof, according to the word of the LORD. Now it becomes clear why Jesus has been shunning vulgar publicity. He knew the people would not accept him as messiah  - suffering servant (Isaiah 40 - 46) but would go only so far as to believe in him as Messiah - King (Isaiah 1 - 39). He was, in fact, as yet to announce that to even his apostles.  That's coming soon in Mat. 16:13-20. Mat 16:13 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? Mat 16:14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. Mat 16:15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Mat 16:16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. Mat 16:17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. Mat 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Mat 16:19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Mat 16:20 Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ. Only Peter seems by that time to make that leap of faith.  John doesn't even mention the episode in his Gospel. However, the peoples' belief in him as King at this time became so great that Jesus feared they would take him by force to make him king.

Spring A.D. 29 - Sea of Galilee - Walks on the Water

Matthew Mark John   Mat 14:22 And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. Mat 14:23 And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. Mat 14:24 But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. Mat 14:25 And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. Mat 14:26 And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. Mat 14:27 But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. Mat 14:28 And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. Mat 14:29 And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. Mat 14:30 But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. Mat 14:31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? Mat 14:32 And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. Mat 14:33 Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.     Mar 6:45 And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people. Mar 6:46 And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. Mar 6:47 And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land. Mar 6:48 And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them. Mar 6:49 But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: Mar 6:50 For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid. Mar 6:51 And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. Mar 6:52 For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened.     Joh 6:15 When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone. Joh 6:16 And when even was now come, his disciples went down unto the sea, Joh 6:17 And entered into a ship, and went over the sea toward Capernaum. And it was now dark, and Jesus was not come to them. Joh 6:18 And the sea arose by reason of a great wind that blew. Joh 6:19 So when they had rowed about five and twenty or thirty furlongs, they see Jesus walking on the sea, and drawing nigh unto the ship: and they were afraid. Joh 6:20 But he saith unto them, It is I; be not afraid. Joh 6:21 Then they willingly received him into the ship: and immediately the ship was at the land whither they went.   Matthew (who I assume was there) says they "came and worshiped him saying: of a truth thou are the Son of God."  Is that a step up?? Mark who gets his info (I assume) secondhand, gives a lesser account - "they were sore amazed in themselves...for their heart was hardened." John, who was there, merely relates the event; not telling their reaction, not mentioning Peter's lack of success in attempting to duplicate the feat.  Myself, I would give him points for trying. Mark makes the point that Jesus would have walked right on by if they (the disciples) had not "cried out."  Could it be that in all cases of healing, etc. that has been and will be Jesus' policy??  This would make a good study.

Spring A.D. 29 - Gennesaret - Sick of Gennesaret Healed

I can't find this area or city on any map.  I will guess it is a short boat ride (or for Jesus a short walk) from Bethsaida on the Sea of Galilee.  There is no indication the the people there took notice of Jesus any further than as a miraculous healer. (Roberson says "the plain of Gennesaret several miles south of Bethsaida".   Matthew Mark   Mat 14:34 And when they were gone over, they came into the land of Gennesaret. Mat 14:35 And when the men of that place had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought unto him all that were diseased; Mat 14:36 And besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment: and as many as touched were made perfectly whole.     Mar 6:53 And when they had passed over, they came into the land of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore. Mar 6:54 And when they were come out of the ship, straightway they knew him, Mar 6:55 And ran through that whole region round about, and began to carry about in beds those that were sick, where they heard he was. Mar 6:56 And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, or country, they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him that they might touch if it were but the border of his garment: and as many as touched him were made whole.   I can't find this area or city on any map.  I will guess it is a short boat ride (or for Jesus a short walk) from Bethsaida on the Sea of Galilee.  There is no indication the the people there took notice of Jesus any further than as a miraculous healer. (Roberson says "the plain of Gennesaret several miles south of Bethsaida".

Spring A.D. 29 - Capernaum - Peak of Popularity Passes in Galilee

Jesus explains in the synagogue in the manner of a parable that all must trust in his sacrifice for their salvation. This startling message lost Him many disciples and the Jewish religious leaders in Galilee sought to kill Him. Joh 6:38 For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. Joh 6:39 And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. Joh 6:40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. Joh 6:41 The Jews then murmured at him, because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven. Joh 6:42 And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven? Joh 6:43 Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Murmur not among yourselves. Joh 6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. Joh 6:45 It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me. Joh 6:46 Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father. Joh 6:47 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life. Joh 6:48 I am that bread of life. Joh 6:49 Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. Joh 6:50 This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. Joh 6:51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. Joh 6:52 The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? Joh 6:53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Joh 6:54 Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. Joh 6:55 For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. Joh 6:56 He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. Joh 6:57 As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. Joh 6:58 This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever.

John Joh 6:22 The day following, when the people which stood on the other side of the sea saw that there was none other boat there, save that one whereinto his disciples were entered, and that Jesus went not with his disciples into the boat, but that his disciples were gone away alone; Joh 6:23 (Howbeit there came other boats from Tiberias nigh unto the place where they did eat bread, after that the Lord had given thanks:) Joh 6:24 When the people therefore saw that Jesus was not there, neither his disciples, they also took shipping, and came to Capernaum, seeking for Jesus. Joh 6:25 And when they had found him on the other side of the sea, they said unto him, Rabbi, when camest thou hither? Joh 6:26 Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. Joh 6:27 Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. Joh 6:28 Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Joh 6:29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. Joh 6:30 They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work? Joh 6:31 Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat. Joh 6:32 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. Joh 6:33 For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. Joh 6:34 Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. Joh 6:35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. Joh 6:36 But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and believe not. Joh 6:37 All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. Joh 6:38 For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. Joh 6:39 And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. Joh 6:40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. Joh 6:41 The Jews then murmured at him, because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven. Joh 6:42 And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven? Joh 6:43 Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Murmur not among yourselves. Joh 6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. Joh 6:45 It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me. Joh 6:46 Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father. Joh 6:47 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life. Joh 6:48 I am that bread of life. Joh 6:49 Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. Joh 6:50 This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. Joh 6:51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. Joh 6:52 The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? Joh 6:53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Joh 6:54 Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. Joh 6:55 For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. Joh 6:56 He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. Joh 6:57 As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. Joh 6:58 This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever. Joh 6:59 These things said he in the synagogue, as he taught in Capernaum. Joh 6:60 Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it? Joh 6:61 When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you? Joh 6:62 What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? Joh 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. Joh 6:64 But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. Joh 6:65 And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. Joh 6:66 From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.   Joh 7:1 After these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for he would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill him. So, it would seem that at this point the common people thought no more of Jesus than that he was on a par with Moses in that he could miraculously provide food.  Jesus takes great pains to explain that he is the perfect blood and flesh sacrifice for their sin (howbeit rather cryptically).  But it goes right over their heads.  Even some of his disciples "murmured" at it and many "walked no more with him." None of the twelve desert and Peter goes so far as to say "thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God." I take it that is a step above "Son of David." Matthew, Mark and Luke have Peter confessing this same step of faith six events later.  Maybe it was a reiteration or my "Harmony" has a slight error in that there should be a break between John 6:66 and 6:67.  6:67 - 7:1 being six events later.

A.D. 29 - Capernaum - Traditions Attacked

Matthew Mark   Mat 15:1 Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying, Mat 15:2 Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. Mat 15:3 But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition? Mat 15:4 For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death. Mat 15:5 But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; Mat 15:6 And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition. Mat 15:7 Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, Mat 15:8 This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. Mat 15:9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. Mat 15:10 And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand: Mat 15:11 Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man. Mat 15:12 Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying? Mat 15:13 But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. Mat 15:14 Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. Mat 15:15 Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable. Mat 15:16 And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding? Mat 15:17 Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught? Mat 15:18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. Mat 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: Mat 15:20 These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.     Mar 7:1 Then came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, which came from Jerusalem. Mar 7:2 And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault. Mar 7:3 For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders. Mar 7:4 And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups, and pots, brasen vessels, and of tables. Mar 7:5 Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands? Mar 7:6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Mar 7:7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. Mar 7:8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. Mar 7:9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. Mar 7:10 For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death: Mar 7:11 But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free. Mar 7:12 And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother; Mar 7:13 Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye. Mar 7:14 And when he had called all the people unto him, he said unto them, Hearken unto me every one of you, and understand: Mar 7:15 There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man. Mar 7:16 If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. Mar 7:17 And when he was entered into the house from the people, his disciples asked him concerning the parable. Mar 7:18 And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him; Mar 7:19 Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats? Mar 7:20 And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. Mar 7:21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Mar 7:22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: Mar 7:23 All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.   Here are some more parables (and explanations by Jesus) not on the "Parable List" in my "Open Bible". The quibble of washing pots is actually based on a passage in Leviticus (Lev 6:28. Lev 6:28 But the earthen vessel wherein it is sodden shall be broken: and if it be sodden in a brasen pot, it shall be both scoured, and rinsed in water. It seem quite obvious it applies to pots used in the very special function of serving sacrifices to God and to apply it to our everyday eating utensils is presumptuous to say the least.

A.D. 29 - Phoenicia - Aborted Retirement in Phoenicia: Syro­Phoenician Healed

Jesus always addressed His good news message to the Jews. It is not until some years after Pentecost that His disciples are allowed, in fact commanded, to preach the Gospel to the gentiles. Mat 15:24 But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

Matthew Mark   Mat 15:21 Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon. Mat 15:22 And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil. Mat 15:23 But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us. Mat 15:24 But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Mat 15:25 Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me. Mat 15:26 But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it to dogs. Mat 15:27 And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table. Mat 15:28 Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.     Mar 7:24 And from thence he arose, and went into the borders of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would have no man know it: but he could not be hid. Mar 7:25 For a certain woman, whose young daughter had an unclean spirit, heard of him, and came and fell at his feet: Mar 7:26 The woman was a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation; and she besought him that he would cast forth the devil out of her daughter. Mar 7:27 But Jesus said unto her, Let the children first be filled: for it is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it unto the dogs. Mar 7:28 And she answered and said unto him, Yes, Lord: yet the dogs under the table eat of the children's crumbs. Mar 7:29 And he said unto her, For this saying go thy way; the devil is gone out of thy daughter. Mar 7:30 And when she was come to her house, she found the devil gone out, and her daughter laid upon the bed.   Here, try as he may, the common people find him and seek to be healed. He baulks at healing a non Jew but her mother's faith changes his mind.  This was another exorcising of a "devil". Then he moves east to Decapolis.  There again multitudes come and as predicted by Isaiah, he heals the lame, blind, the dumb, the maimed. Still he "charged them that they should tell no man", with no success. Note that the twelve when sent out, they too had been instructed not to preach to or heal gentiles.  The point being that fallen away as the Jews may be, they have not sunk so low as the gentiles.

A.D. 29 - Decapolis - Afflicted Healed

Matthew Mark   Mat 15:29 And Jesus departed from thence, and came nigh unto the sea of Galilee; and went up into a mountain, and sat down there. Mat 15:30 And great multitudes came unto him, having with them those that were lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many others, and cast them down at Jesus' feet; and he healed them: Mat 15:31 Insomuch that the multitude wondered, when they saw the dumb to speak, the maimed to be whole, the lame to walk, and the blind to see: and they glorified the God of Israel.     Mar 7:31 And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, he came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coasts of Decapolis. Mar 7:32 And they bring unto him one that was deaf, and had an impediment in his speech; and they beseech him to put his hand upon him. Mar 7:33 And he took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue; Mar 7:34 And looking up to heaven, he sighed, and saith unto him, Ephphatha, that is, Be opened. Mar 7:35 And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain. Mar 7:36 And he charged them that they should tell no man: but the more he charged them, so much the more a great deal they published it; Mar 7:37 And were beyond measure astonished, saying, He hath done all things well: he maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak.

A.D. 29 - Decapolis - 4000 Fed

This act of compassion had a secondary purpose: His disciples saw Him produce food out of thin air. The multitude probably never realized their meal came by way of an act of God. Mat 15:32 Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way.

Matthew Mark   Mat 15:32 Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way. Mat 15:33 And his disciples say unto him, Whence should we have so much bread in the wilderness, as to fill so great a multitude? Mat 15:34 And Jesus saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? And they said, Seven, and a few little fishes. Mat 15:35 And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground. Mat 15:36 And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and gave to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. Mat 15:37 And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets full. Mat 15:38 And they that did eat were four thousand men, beside women and children. Mat 15:39 And he sent away the multitude, and took ship, and came into the coasts of Magdala.     Mar 8:1 In those days the multitude being very great, and having nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples unto him, and saith unto them, Mar 8:2 I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now been with me three days, and have nothing to eat: Mar 8:3 And if I send them away fasting to their own houses, they will faint by the way: for divers of them came from far. Mar 8:4 And his disciples answered him, From whence can a man satisfy these men with bread here in the wilderness? Mar 8:5 And he asked them, How many loaves have ye? And they said, Seven. Mar 8:6 And he commanded the people to sit down on the ground: and he took the seven loaves, and gave thanks, and brake, and gave to his disciples to set before them; and they did set them before the people. Mar 8:7 And they had a few small fishes: and he blessed, and commanded to set them also before them. Mar 8:8 So they did eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets. Mar 8:9 And they that had eaten were about four thousand: and he sent them away.   The people had been with him three days up a mountain.  Up to now and I assume even now the big and only attraction for them was to get Jesus to heal.  Is that what happened for a three day period??  The Gospel accounts give little hint.  The miraculous feeding seems to have a double purpose, compassion for their hunger and to demonstrate his (Jesus') supernatural power.  Demonstrate to his disciples that is, not to the masses.  They were requested to sit on the ground and be served by the disciples (just as last time - the feeding of 5,000), possibly never knowing that a miracle had taken place in its preparation.

A.D. 29 - Magdala - Pharisees Ask for a Sign

This looks like bad news for the Pharisees. Up to this time Jesus has only asked them to repent and now He comes close to saying there is no hope they will do so. Mat 16:4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.

Matthew Mark   Mat 16:1 The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. Mat 16:2 He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. Mat 16:3 And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? Mat 16:4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.     Mar 8:10 And straightway he entered into a ship with his disciples, and came into the parts of Dalmanutha. Mar 8:11 And the Pharisees came forth, and began to question with him, seeking of him a sign from heaven, tempting him. Mar 8:12 And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and saith, Why doth this generation seek after a sign? verily I say unto you, There shall no sign be given unto this generation. Mar 8:13 And he left them, and entering into the ship again departed to the other side.   Best I can remember the extent of Jesus' demands on the Pharisees up to this time is to acknowledge him as a prophet (like Jonah) and change their wicked ways (repent); and of course they didn't.  My theory is that is step one - being born of water - John's baptism. Nicodemus appears to have made that step and Jesus went on to tell him he had one more to go, a spiritual rebirth by being cleaned from guilt of all sins by looking to him (Jesus) and his death on the cross as payment.

A.D. 29 - Magdala - Disciples Reprimanded

Here's a turning point - the disciples come to realize their religious leaders were teaching them false doctrine. Mat 16:6 Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

Matthew Mark   Mat 16:5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. Mat 16:6 Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. Mat 16:7 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. Mat 16:8 Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? Mat 16:9 Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? Mat 16:10 Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? Mat 16:11 How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? Mat 16:12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.     Mar 8:14 Now the disciples had forgotten to take bread, neither had they in the ship with them more than one loaf. Mar 8:15 And he charged them, saying, Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod. Mar 8:16 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have no bread. Mar 8:17 And when Jesus knew it, he saith unto them, Why reason ye, because ye have no bread? perceive ye not yet, neither understand? have ye your heart yet hardened? Mar 8:18 Having eyes, see ye not? and having ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember? Mar 8:19 When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? They say unto him, Twelve. Mar 8:20 And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? And they said, Seven. Mar 8:21 And he said unto them, How is it that ye do not understand? Mar 8:22 And he cometh to Bethsaida; and they bring a blind man unto him, and besought him to touch him. Mar 8:23 And he took the blind man by the hand, and led him out of the town; and when he had spit on his eyes, and put his hands upon him, he asked him if he saw ought. Mar 8:24 And he looked up, and said, I see men as trees, walking. Mar 8:25 After that he put his hands again upon his eyes, and made him look up: and he was restored, and saw every man clearly. Mar 8:26 And he sent him away to his house, saying, Neither go into the town, nor tell it to any in the town.   Immediately Jesus finds an opportunity to teach his disciples not to be like the Pharisees and Sadducees.  They (the disciples) have less excuse to not accept Jesus as a prophet sent from God. They actually witnessed him miraculously create food for two large groups of people, a feat which puts him on a par at least with Moses, to say nothing of the healing he performed in front of their very eyes and the powers which he provided them on their missionary journey a short time ago.

A.D. 29 - Magdala - Blind Man Healed

Matthew Mark   Mat 16:5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. Mat 16:6 Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. Mat 16:7 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. Mat 16:8 Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? Mat 16:9 Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? Mat 16:10 Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? Mat 16:11 How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? Mat 16:12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.     Mar 8:14 Now the disciples had forgotten to take bread, neither had they in the ship with them more than one loaf. Mar 8:15 And he charged them, saying, Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod. Mar 8:16 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have no bread. Mar 8:17 And when Jesus knew it, he saith unto them, Why reason ye, because ye have no bread? perceive ye not yet, neither understand? have ye your heart yet hardened? Mar 8:18 Having eyes, see ye not? and having ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember? Mar 8:19 When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? They say unto him, Twelve. Mar 8:20 And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? And they said, Seven. Mar 8:21 And he said unto them, How is it that ye do not understand? Mar 8:22 And he cometh to Bethsaida; and they bring a blind man unto him, and besought him to touch him. Mar 8:23 And he took the blind man by the hand, and led him out of the town; and when he had spit on his eyes, and put his hands upon him, he asked him if he saw ought. Mar 8:24 And he looked up, and said, I see men as trees, walking. Mar 8:25 After that he put his hands again upon his eyes, and made him look up: and he was restored, and saw every man clearly. Mar 8:26 And he sent him away to his house, saying, Neither go into the town, nor tell it to any in the town.   Again, the faith seems to be in the blind man's friends who bring him to Jesus.  Not much faith is required of a seriously handicapped or sick person.  He will grasp at straws. Again after Jesus healed, his instructions are "go home, neither go into town, nor tell it to any in the town".  Why?  Could be they just didn't make the connection that Jesus was at the least a prophet from God. Or if they did, they weren't cut out for the missionary field. Or Jesus feared stirring up a movement for his being accepted as a successor to David as political King and thereby block his mission to die on the cross and save the spiritually dead world.

A.D. 29 - Near Caesarea Philippi - Peter Takes Step Forward - Sees Jesus as The Christ

And here's an even greater turning point in the training of Jesus' disciples - it has finely gotten through to at least one of them that Jesus is God in the flesh. The disciples are told to keep this information to themselves. Mat 16:16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. Mat 16:17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. Mat 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Mat 16:19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Mat 16:20 Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.

Matthew Mark Luke John   Mat 16:13 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? Mat 16:14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. Mat 16:15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Mat 16:16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. Mat 16:17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. Mat 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Mat 16:19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Mat 16:20 Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.     Mar 8:27 And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the towns of Caesarea Philippi: and by the way he asked his disciples, saying unto them, Whom do men say that I am? Mar 8:28 And they answered, John the Baptist: but some say, Elias; and others, One of the prophets. Mar 8:29 And he saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter answereth and saith unto him, Thou art the Christ. Mar 8:30 And he charged them that they should tell no man of him.     Luk 9:18 And it came to pass, as he was alone praying, his disciples were with him: and he asked them, saying, Whom say the people that I am? Luk 9:19 They answering said, John the Baptist; but some say, Elias; and others say, that one of the old prophets is risen again. Luk 9:20 He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Peter answering said, The Christ of God. Luk 9:21 And he straitly charged them, and commanded them to tell no man that thing;     Joh 6:67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Joh 6:68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. Joh 6:69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. Joh 6:70 Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil? Joh 6:71 He spake of Judas Iscariot the son of Simon: for he it was that should betray him, being one of the twelve.   From the way Matthew words it, I take it Jesus never before went so far with his disciples in explaining his divinity. He had up to now been content if they or anyone (excepting the Samaritan woman and Nicodemus) took him for a prophet. Even now he wants the disciples to keep quiet the fact that he is "The Christ, The Son of The Living God". I take that to mean he is not just "Son of David" or equal to the prophets but equal to God. Yet to be announced is his sacrifice on the cross.

A.D. 29 - Caesarea Philippi - Jesus Foretells His Death

So now it's time for Jesus to start teaching His disciples the good news, His gospel message that they are to take to the whole world, the message that Christ died for our sins. Mat 16:21 From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.

Matthew Mark Luke   Mat 16:21 From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. Mat 16:22 Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee. Mat 16:23 But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men. Mat 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. Mat 16:25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. Mat 16:26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?     Mar 8:31 And he began to teach them, that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders, and of the chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. Mar 8:32 And he spake that saying openly. And Peter took him, and began to rebuke him. Mar 8:33 But when he had turned about and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee behind me, Satan: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men. Mar 8:34 And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. Mar 8:35 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it. Mar 8:36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Mar 8:37 Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? Mar 8:38 Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.     Luk 9:22 Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day. Luk 9:23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. Luk 9:24 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it. Luk 9:25 For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away?   And here it is. I have heard Peter chided for his quick ups and downs in faith, but this sudden call for such a higher leap of faith - to follow Jesus to certain death and very possible death for himself at the hands of the religious leaders of the Jews - that leap for Peter to make on so little warning does seem superhuman. The religious leaders on the other hand had been put on the lookout five hundred years earlier by Isaiah. Peter, a simple fisherman may be excused for being unaware of Isaiah's fore castings. It's also interesting that Jesus does not implicate the gentiles in His crucifixion.  Neither here nor anywhere else does He have a harsh word for the Romans.

A.D. 29 - Caesarea Philippi - Kingdom Promised

Jesus continues to explain God's plan for salvation. After His death, burial and resurrection on the Day of Pentecost His disciples will receive the reward of the indwelling of The Holy Spirit and power for preaching. Peter explained the process at that time: Act 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Act 2:39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. Mat 16:27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. Mat 16:28 Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.

Matthew Mark Luke   Mat 16:27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. Mat 16:28 Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.     Mar 9:1 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That there be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power.     Luk 9:26 For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels. Luk 9:27 But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God.   Here again are statements which can very well be used to support my view that the Kingdom in question came at Pentecost, fifty days after Jesus' death on the cross. Acts 2:1-4 Act 2:1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. Act 2:2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. Act 2:3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. Act 2:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.   Act 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Act 2:39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.   Did Jesus upgrade Peter from "stone" to "rock" Joh 1:42 And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone. Mat 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. These events are two years apart. I would have thought Jesus is our "Rock".  Pretty good claim for Peter as first Pope?? As for accepting Jesus as "Son of God", that was good enough to qualify the Ethiopian Treasurer and "whosoever" for Baptism. Act 8:37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. 1Jn 4:15 Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. Being Son makes him "Heir of all things" Heb 1:2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Maybe Jesus was pointing to himself as "Rock" 1Co 3:11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Well Jesus is the "Chief Corner Stone" Eph 2:20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; Luke says "The Christ of God"  Whatever, it appears that to make such a claim was against Jewish law. Joh 19:7 The Jews answered him, We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God.

 

A.D. 29 - Mountain Unnamed - The Transfiguration

The main purpose of this event seems mainly to bolster the teaching abilities, the confidence of the three apostles who witnessed it. Who can better teach the message that Jesus is God and that he died for our sins than one who heard it direct from God the Father? Mat 17:5 While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.

Matthew Mark Luke   Mat 17:1 And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, Mat 17:2 And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. Mat 17:3 And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. Mat 17:4 Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. Mat 17:5 While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. Mat 17:6 And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. Mat 17:7 And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. Mat 17:8 And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. Mat 17:9 And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead. Mat 17:10 And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come? Mat 17:11 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things. Mat 17:12 But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them. Mat 17:13 Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist.     Mar 9:2 And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter, and James, and John, and leadeth them up into an high mountain apart by themselves: and he was transfigured before them. Mar 9:3 And his raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white them. Mar 9:4 And there appeared unto them Elias with Moses: and they were talking with Jesus. Mar 9:5 And Peter answered and said to Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. Mar 9:6 For he wist not what to say; for they were sore afraid. Mar 9:7 And there was a cloud that overshadowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him. Mar 9:8 And suddenly, when they had looked round about, they saw no man any more, save Jesus only with themselves. Mar 9:9 And as they came down from the mountain, he charged them that they should tell no man what things they had seen, till the Son of man were risen from the dead. Mar 9:10 And they kept that saying with themselves, questioning one with another what the rising from the dead should mean. Mar 9:11 And they asked him, saying, Why say the scribes that Elias must first come? Mar 9:12 And he answered and told them, Elias verily cometh first, and restoreth all things; and how it is written of the Son of man, that he must suffer many things, and be set at nought. Mar 9:13 But I say unto you, That Elias is indeed come, and they have done unto him whatsoever they listed, as it is written of him.     Luk 9:28 And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. Luk 9:29 And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering. Luk 9:30 And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias: Luk 9:31 Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem. Luk 9:32 But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. Luk 9:33 And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said. Luk 9:34 While he thus spake, there came a cloud, and overshadowed them: and they feared as they entered into the cloud. Luk 9:35 And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him. Luk 9:36 And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept it close, and told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen.   Here is revelation Big Time to the Big Time  apostles. Peter mentions it in a letter (2 Peter). 2Pe 1:15 Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance. 2Pe 1:16 For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 2Pe 1:17 For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 2Pe 1:18 And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. John mentions it not at all in his Gospel or letters, but then he has an even greater revelation and his book is so named. Is there any sense in Peter's offer to make three tabernacles?  Matthew Henry says "No".  I would bet there is but can't yet figure out what. There is no doubt that John the Baptist was actually Elijah brought back from his "sleep" with the other Old Testament Saints. The purpose of this event would seem to be to give the "three" more selling points in their future work as evangelists after Pentecost, but not until.  For now they are to keep it "close." However, it may be there was some benefit to Jesus in conferring with Moses and Elijah prior to his crucifixion.

A.D. 29 - Mt. of Transfigeration - Epileptic Healed

Matthew Mark Luke   Mat 17:14 And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying, Mat 17:15 Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. Mat 17:16 And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him. Mat 17:17 Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. Mat 17:18 And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour. Mat 17:19 Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? Mat 17:20 And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Mat 17:21 Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.     Mar 9:14 And when he came to his disciples, he saw a great multitude about them, and the scribes questioning with them. Mar 9:15 And straightway all the people, when they beheld him, were greatly amazed, and running to him saluted him. Mar 9:16 And he asked the scribes, What question ye with them? Mar 9:17 And one of the multitude answered and said, Master, I have brought unto thee my son, which hath a dumb spirit; Mar 9:18 And wheresoever he taketh him, he teareth him: and he foameth, and gnasheth with his teeth, and pineth away: and I spake to thy disciples that they should cast him out; and they could not. Mar 9:19 He answereth him, and saith, O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him unto me. Mar 9:20 And they brought him unto him: and when he saw him, straightway the spirit tare him; and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming. Mar 9:21 And he asked his father, How long is it ago since this came unto him? And he said, Of a child. Mar 9:22 And ofttimes it hath cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him: but if thou canst do any thing, have compassion on us, and help us. Mar 9:23 Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. Mar 9:24 And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief. Mar 9:25 When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him. Mar 9:26 And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He is dead. Mar 9:27 But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose. Mar 9:28 And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out? Mar 9:29 And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.     Luk 9:37 And it came to pass, that on the next day, when they were come down from the hill, much people met him. Luk 9:38 And, behold, a man of the company cried out, saying, Master, I beseech thee, look upon my son: for he is mine only child. Luk 9:39 And, lo, a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out; and it teareth him that he foameth again, and bruising him hardly departeth from him. Luk 9:40 And I besought thy disciples to cast him out; and they could not. Luk 9:41 And Jesus answering said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you, and suffer you? Bring thy son hither. Luk 9:42 And as he was yet a coming, the devil threw him down, and tare him. And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him again to his father.   Seems like to label this young man an "Epileptic" (the editors of my Bible do it, not the Holy Spirit) gives epileptics a bad rap - he had a demon in side of him, not a physical disability. Mark's version goes into more detail and puts the disciples in a little better light. The "faithless and perverse" may rather be not them but the scribes and by-standers whose mere scoffing presence may have had a diminutive effect on the disciples healing powers. Much can be made of the father's statement "I believe, help thou my unbelief). Belief, it would seem operated more like a light bulb controlled by a dimmer switch rather than by an on-off switch.

A.D. 29 - Galilee - Again Tells of Death and Resurrection

This is the second time for most of the disciples to hear this news (Peter, James, and John are hearing it for the third time). The account in Mark and Luke implies that none understood. Mat 17:22 And while they abode in Galilee, Jesus said unto them, The Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of men: Mat 17:23 And they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be raised again. And they were exceeding sorry.

Matthew Mark Luke   Mat 17:22 And while they abode in Galilee, Jesus said unto them, The Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of men: Mat 17:23 And they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be raised again. And they were exceeding sorry.       Mar 9:30 And they departed thence, and passed through Galilee; and he would not that any man should know it. Mar 9:31 For he taught his disciples, and said unto them, The Son of man is delivered into the hands of men, and they shall kill him; and after that he is killed, he shall rise the third day. Mar 9:32 But they understood not that saying, and were afraid to ask him.     Luk 9:43 And they were all amazed at the mighty power of God. But while they wondered every one at all things which Jesus did, he said unto his disciples, Luk 9:44 Let these sayings sink down into your ears: for the Son of man shall be delivered into the hands of men. Luk 9:45 But they understood not this saying, and it was hid from them, that they perceived it not: and they feared to ask him of that saying.   This is the second time he brings it up to the disciples.  The first time seems to be just a few days prior to now. The next seems maybe six months later, a few days before his final entry into Jerusalem. Even though this is the second time he brings the subject up, they (the disciples) find it too shocking to comprehend.

A.D. 29 - Capernaum - Taxes Paid

Matthew Mat 17:24 And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute? Mat 17:25 He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers? Mat 17:26 Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free. Mat 17:27 Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee. Lots of symbolism here. But how great a lift to the faith of "The Rock" to catch a fish with exact change in its mouth as predicted!

A.D. 29 - Capernaum - Disciples Contend about Greatness

Maybe James and John understood to some extent that they had been selected for high place in the Kingdom and are here wrangling over who will be the highest. They are still overly concerned about the matter a year later. (Mat 20:20 - 28) Mat 18:1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? Mat 18:11 For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. Mat 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

Matthew Mark Luke   Mat 18:1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? Mat 18:2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, Mat 18:3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Mat 18:4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Mat 18:5 And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. Mat 18:6 But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Mat 18:7 Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! Mat 18:8 Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. Mat 18:9 And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. Mat 18:10 Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. Mat 18:11 For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. Mat 18:12 How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? Mat 18:13 And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Mat 18:14 Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish. Mat 18:15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. Mat 18:16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. Mat 18:17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Mat 18:18 Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Mat 18:19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. Mat 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Mat 18:21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Mat 18:22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Mat 18:23 Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. Mat 18:24 And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. Mat 18:25 But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. Mat 18:26 The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Mat 18:27 Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. Mat 18:28 But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. Mat 18:29 And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Mat 18:30 And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. Mat 18:31 So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. Mat 18:32 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Mat 18:33 Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? Mat 18:34 And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. Mat 18:35 So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.     Mar 9:33 And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way? Mar 9:34 But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest. Mar 9:35 And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all. Mar 9:36 And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them, Mar 9:37 Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me. Mar 9:38 And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us. Mar 9:39 But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. Mar 9:40 For he that is not against us is on our part. Mar 9:41 For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward. Mar 9:42 And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea. Mar 9:43 And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched: Mar 9:44 Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. Mar 9:45 And if thy foot offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter halt into life, than having two feet to be cast into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched: Mar 9:46 Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. Mar 9:47 And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire: Mar 9:48 Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. Mar 9:49 For every one shall be salted with fire, and every sacrifice shall be salted with salt. Mar 9:50 Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.     Luk 9:46 Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest. Luk 9:47 And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him, Luk 9:48 And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great. Luk 9:49 And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us. Luk 9:50 And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us.   This happens still in Peter's house; I suspect said to Peter and John again wrangling over rank. The business over little children applies to the two of them, all other disciples and of course all who come to put their trust in him (Jesus) and bodes poorly for all the priests who have been exposed lately of child molestation - and how many back through the ages? The lost sheep parable, he tells again to a different audience in Luke 15:1-7 Luk 15:1 Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. Luk 15:2 And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. Luk 15:3 And he spake this parable unto them, saying, Luk 15:4 What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? Luk 15:5 And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. Luk 15:6 And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. Luk 15:7 I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. an audience of publicans and sinners - lost sheep who admit to being lost and are ripe for repentance (The Harvest). The lost sheep, lost coin, and the prodigal son are all symbols of the same ilk. The ninety and nine sheep, coins, and home bound son are in worse position in that they have not yet come to the realization that they are sinners in need of repentance. Here is the  binding and bound business he tells again to Peter - what it means maybe has something to do with his position as "Porter."  The Church as final arbiter in cases of dispute would of course be a rather small group at this time. The  parable of forgiveness is rather clear cut as parables go.  To Peter and John, it might be a little hard to follow as they had yet to comprehend the full implications of His (Jesus') death on the cross. There is a possibility in my mind that the fellow servants need to sacrifice to a greater extent, their being "salt" to the main sacrifice of Jesus. I have yet to see myself as asked to be "Salt" or even acceptable if I volunteer.  Those who say otherwise seem like just engaging in a lot of la de da talk.

A.D. 29 - Galilee - Jesus Rejects Brothers' Advice

His brethren wanted Jesus to go to Jerusalem and prove to all His divinity. Jesus did go, but to prove the hatred of the religious leaders for Him and His message of their need for repentance. Joh 7:7 The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil.

John Joh 7:2 Now the Jews' feast of tabernacles was at hand. Joh 7:3 His brethren therefore said unto him, Depart hence, and go into Judaea, that thy disciples also may see the works that thou doest. Joh 7:4 For there is no man that doeth any thing in secret, and he himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, shew thyself to the world. Joh 7:5 For neither did his brethren believe in him. Joh 7:6 Then Jesus said unto them, My time is not yet come: but your time is alway ready. Joh 7:7 The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil. Joh 7:8 Go ye up unto this feast: I go not up yet unto this feast; for my time is not yet full come. Joh 7:9 When he had said these words unto them, he abode still in Galilee. How hard it would be for Jesus' brothers, sisters, and mother to accept him as God.  They had seen him with their very eyes act very much as an ordinary human from a baby on up. Much more easy for me without all that adverse testimony cluttering up my mind. Their reluctance to accept until the over-coming evidence of his death, burial, and resurrection is to me all the more evidence of his perfect humanity along side of his perfect Godhood. To the New-Agers who claim present Godhood for all, I say who else but Jesus returned from the dead?  Who but Jesus and those he called back?

c. Sept. A.D. 29 - Galilee - Samaritan Rejection

Two years earlier Jesus brought many Samaritans to repentance and trust in Him. Now Samaritans reject Him because He is going to worship in Jerusalem.  Jesus does not find this at all reason to give up hope for their later salvation. A short time later He shows in the parable of the good Samaritan that this hope is well founded.  The Samaritan loves Him but the religious leaders of the Jews reject Him and try to kill Him. Luk 9:56 For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them. And they went to another village.

Matthew Luke John   Mat 19:1 And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these sayings, he departed from Galilee, and came into the coasts of Judaea beyond Jordan;     Luk 9:51 And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem, Luk 9:52 And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. Luk 9:53 And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. Luk 9:54 And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? Luk 9:55 But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. Luk 9:56 For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them. And they went to another village.     Joh 7:10 But when his brethren were gone up, then went he also up unto the feast, not openly, but as it were in secret.   The disciples thought they had a situation similar to Elijah in that here were Samaritans rejecting the true God.  But they didn't have it quite right.  In Elijah's time we have Jews worshiping Beelzebub.  In Jesus' time they worshiped God the Father but not in the correct way hence didn't deserve complete destruction by fire.  The fact that they lost the faith which they showed in John 4 just goes to demonstrate the truth of the parable of the sower. Could be there was something about the direction Jesus' party was now taking - toward rather than away from Jerusalem that made them less hospitable. And yet Jesus uses a Samaritan, just a week or so later in his parable as an example of a good neighbor. They were all fellow Jews worshiping God the Father.  And interestingly enough three who had a chance to help the fellow Jew in need were all three worshiping in a wrong manner.  The point being the two religious leaders being deeper in hypocrisy than the Samaritan.

c. Sept. A.D. 29 - Galilee - Demands of Discipleship

Jesus again lets His people know that those chosen as apostles and missionaries are held to very strict rules of obedience. They are to live a life without a permanent home.  Their service in preaching salvation to the world comes ahead of service to their own earthly family. Mat 8:20 And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.

Matthew Luke   Mat 8:18 Now when Jesus saw great multitudes about him, he gave commandment to depart unto the other side. Mat 8:19 And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. Mat 8:20 And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. Mat 8:21 And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Mat 8:22 But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead.     Luk 9:57 And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. Luk 9:58 And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. Luk 9:59 And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Luk 9:60 Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. Luk 9:61 And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. Luk 9:62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.   It is comforting that in none of the cases where the demands of discipleship were too great for the volunteer did Jesus give indication they would lose their salvation. I take it they just miss out on the "Wedding Supper." Also, in none of the cases did Jesus first say to them "follow me" as he did to Matthew, Peter, John, etc. How about the case of Elijah's call to Elisha. (1 Kings 19:19-21). 1Ki 19:19 So he departed thence, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth: and Elijah passed by him, and cast his mantle upon him. 1Ki 19:20 And he left the oxen, and ran after Elijah, and said, Let me, I pray thee, kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow thee. And he said unto him, Go back again: for what have I done to thee? 1Ki 19:21 And he returned back from him, and took a yoke of oxen, and slew them, and boiled their flesh with the instruments of the oxen, and gave unto the people, and they did eat. Then he arose, and went after Elijah, and ministered unto him. Looks like Elisha got a chance to say good-bye to his family.  The difference is probably in who is doing the calling.