Home Bible Outlines An Outline of the Story of the Gospels A Synopsis of the Four Gospels A Harmony of the Gospels Parables Miracles Prophecies Doctrine Gospel Songs
An Outline
of the
Story of the Gospels
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:
I. Introduction
1. Luke's Introduction
Though none claim it, we must 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 that all his information is second hand.
2. Pre-fleshly state of Christ
John, in the 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.
3. Genealogy of Jesus Christ
II. Birth and Early Life of Jesus and John the Baptist
1. 7 B.C. - Jerusalem (Temple) - Announcement of Birth of John
2. 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.
3. c. 5 B.C. - Hill Country of Judah - Song of Elizabeth to Mary
4. c. 5 B.C. - Hill Country of Judah - Mary’s Song of Praise
5. 5 B.C. - Judea - Birth, Infancy and Purpose for Future of John the Baptist
6. 5 B.C. Nazareth - Announcement of Jesus' Birth to Joseph
Hard to tell 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.
7. 5-4 B.C. - Bethlehem - Birth of Jesus Christ
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 5-4 B.C. - Bethlehem - Jesus' Circumcision
11. 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.
12. 4 B.C. - Jerusalem and Bethlehem - Visit of the Wise Men
The Wise Men, we can 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.
13. 4 B.C. - Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Egypt - Flight into Egypt and Massacre of Innocents
14. 4 B.C. - Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Egypt - From Egypt to Nazareth with Jesus
15. 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 this passage to shows 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.
16. A.D. 7-8 - Jerusalem - Jesus, 12 Years Old, Visits the Temple
This passage shows 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.
17. Afterward - Nazareth - 18-Year Account of Jesus’ Adolescence and Adulthood
There is a clue here that Jesus 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.
III. 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:
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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:
4. c. A.D. 25-27 - Judean Wilderness - His Courage
IV. Ministry of Jesus - Beginning - c. A. D. 27
Missions of Jesus:
Luk 1:33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
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.
Luk 2:11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Luk 2:30 For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
Luk 2:32 A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.
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.
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:
1. 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 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.
A few questions concerning this event:
1. Jesus himself admits He needs the baptism of John. Does 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 baptized 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.
Does that 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?
Did he need, like all Old Testament saints, 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. Possibly 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.
2. 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 - a mission that 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.
3. 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"?
One may guess that Jesus told him so, that 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.
4. 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 may have been doing little miracles 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.
5. c. A.D. 27 - Capernaum is "His" city - First Stay in Capernaum
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. A.D. 27 - Judea - Co-Ministry with John
There 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 has 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.
10. 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,
11. 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 Joh 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.
12. 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.
V. Northern Ministry of Jesus - A. D. 27-29
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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. This event shows 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.
10. 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.
11. 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 first 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?
The Parable "New Cloth on Old Garment" : The old system of Jewish priests teaching God’s rules of conduct and sacrifices at the temple as payment for violations thereof is so corrupt he won’t mend it with his new system, his kingdom, his church, his body of believers and his sacrifice on the cross.
The Parable "New Wine in Old Bottles" : We can trust in God’s word and Jesus’ sacrifice to preserve us forever.
12. 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.
13. 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.
14. 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.
15. 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.
16. 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.
17. 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.
The Parable "Candle Under a Bushel": If you disciples are wondering why you received such strict instructions in righteousness in “The Sermon on the Mount”, it’s because you will be Jesus’ surrogates here on earth. People will judge Jesus and his creditability by your actions.
The Parable "A Wise Man Builds on a Rock": Jesus told this parable to his disciples as part of his “Sermon on the Mount”. It is basically instructions in conduct for those who enlist in his elite band of apostles and disciples. The penalty for sloth in following these instructions is quite severe - eternity separated from God.
18. 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.
19. 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.
20. 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.
21. 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:
22. 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.
The Parable "The Creditor and the Two Debtors" : Simon as a religious leader bears responsibility not only for his own sins but also shares responsibility for the sins of those who he misleads. If and when he recognizes his sin, repents and puts his trust in Jesus, he will “love him the most”.
23. 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,
24. 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.
25. 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.
The Parable "Candle Under a Bushel No.2": Jesus is here giving a recruiting speech to the multitudes. He promises the support of his body here on earth, the church, but he warns that he is looking for candidates of high righteousness and virtue.
26. 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.
27. 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.
The Parable of "The Sower ": Jesus’ mission is to find men with honest and good hearts capable of teaching others the gospel of the kingdom and thereby aid in its growth. Hopefully they will also be capable of spiritual growth themselves and thereby be more useful for greater heavenly duties after their earthly service is over.
The Parable of "The Tares": Judging who has a heart for God is best left to God.
The Parable of "Candle Under a Bushel No.2": You who have chosen to follow me are to be like me, a light to the world. To help your light to shine you will have the aid of my body here on earth, the church.
The Parable of "The Growing Seed": You who preach God’s word are not going to know for sure the fruit of your sowing until God’s harvest.
The Parable of "The Mustard Seed": Beware of false teachers who shall bring damnable heresies into the church.
The Parable of "The Leaven": Beware of sin and false doctrine in the church. Its nature is to grow.
The Parable of "The Hidden Treasure": Jesus paid it all.
The Parable of " The Pearl of Great Price": God paid an infinite price to dwell in the temple of the believer’s body.
The Parable of "The Net": You disciples will have a very important job. You will be spreading a message of repentance and the kingdom, which will affect where people chose to spend eternity.
28. 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!
29. 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.
30. A.D. 28 - East Shore of Galilee - Jairus’ Daughter Raised and Woman with Hemorrhage Healed
31. A.D. 28 - East Shore of Galilee - Two Blind Men’s Sight Restored
32. A.D. 28 - East Shore of Galilee - Mute Demoniac Healed
33. A.D. 28 - Nazareth - Nazareth’s Second Rejection of Christ
34. 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.
35. A.D. 28 - Galilee - Fearful Herod Beheads John
36. Spring A.D. 29 - Near Bethsaida - Return of 12, Jesus Withdraws, 5000 Fed
37. Spring A.D. 29 - Sea of Galilee - Walks on the Water
38. 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".
39. 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.
40. A.D. 29 - Capernaum - Traditions Attacked
41. 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.
42. A.D. 29 - Decapolis - Afflicted Healed
43. 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.
44. 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.
45. 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.
46. A.D. 29 - Magdala - Blind Man Healed
46. 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.
47. 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.
48. 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.
49. A.D. 29 - Mountain Unnamed - The Transfiguration
The 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.
50. A.D. 29 - Mt. of Transfigeration - Epileptic Healed
51. 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.
52. A.D. 29 - Capernaum - Taxes Paid
53. 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.
The Parable of "The Unforgiving Servant": Be careful what you ask for and promise. God will keep his end and will see to it that you keep your end of the deal.
54. 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.
55. 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.
56. 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.
VI. Southern Ministry of Jesus - Oct. A.D. 29 - A.D. 30
1. Oct. A.D. 29 - Jerusalem - Feast of Tabernacles
Now Jesus is shouting His message of salvation not just just in private to individuals, to His chosen ones, His disciples and apostles.
Now He is shouting it to all Jews in hearing distance.
Joh 7:37 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. Joh 7:38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
2. Oct. A.D. 29 - Jerusalem - Forgiveness of Adulteress
And the first event after His salvation message to the Jews is a message for the need for repentance and forgiveness to those who call Him Lord.
Joh 8:7 So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. Joh 8:8 And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. Joh 8:9 And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. Joh 8:10 When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? Joh 8:11 She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.
3. A.D. 29 - Jerusalem - I Am the Light
Jesus continues His public declaration to the Jews that He is a prophet sent by God His Father.
Joh 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
4. A.D. 29 - Jerusalem - Temple - Pharisees Can’t Meet the Prophecy Thus Try to Destroy the Prophet
Some of the Jews believe Jesus' claims to be the promised Messiah, but the Pharisees reject.
When Jesus tells them flat out that He is Devine they take steps to kill Him.
Joh 8:26 I have many things to say and to judge of you: but he that sent me is true; and I speak to the world those things which I have heard of him. Joh 8:27 They understood not that he spake to them of the Father.
Joh 8:58 Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am. Joh 8:59 Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.
5. A.D. 29 - Jerusalem - Man Born Blind Healed
God planned this opportunity for the Pharisees to recognize the divinity of Jesus when the man was born blind.
When the opportunity arose the Pharisees failed to see.
Once again they proved themselves unfit for their jobs as religious leaders.
Joh 9:3 Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him. Joh 9:4 I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work. Joh 9:5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.
Joh 9:39 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.
6. A.D. 29 - Jerusalem - Parable of the Good Shepherd
Here Jesus explains who are God's sheep.
They are those who recognize His voice.
It is clear that the current religious leaders are not His sheep.
Joh 10:7 Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.
Joh 10:15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.
The Parable of "The Good Shepherd": You scribes and Pharisees don’t have a clew. You are blind spiritually. You are heading to destruction, but you won’t get my apostles to follow.
7. A.D. 29 - Probably Judea - The Service of the Seventy
Almost a year before this event the twelve apostles were sent out with the same message - a call for repentance to the Jews because God will shortly establish a new Kingdom here on earth.
God's disciples will not be sent out to preach a salvation message until after the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.
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.
8. A.D. 29 - Judea - The Good Samaritan
The Parable of "The Good Samaritan": Get out of here and shape up you hypocrite lawyer; you know very well that your neighbors are your fellows who love God. But right now your head judges are planning to nail your God to a cross and your fellow lawyers, Pharisees and Priests will stand by and cheer. One of the last ones to give God love and thanks before you have him nailed to that cross will be a Samaritan, whom you despise.
9. A.D. 29 - Bethany - Hospitality of Martha and Mary
10. A.D. 29 - Judea - Lord's Prayer (again) and Parable of "a Friend in Need"
The Parable of "A Friend in Need": When a Gentile comes in need to a disciple, the disciple will never find a “do not disturb” sign when he (the disciple) asks God for help. He will always get a good answer.
11. A.D. 29 - Judea - Accused of a Connection with Beelzebub
12. A.D. 29 - Judea - Judgment Against Lawyers and Pharisees
13. A.D. 29 - Judea - Jesus Deals with Hypocrisy, Covetousness, Worry, and Alertness
The verses Luke 12:8-9 could almost be understood as a Readers' Digest version of Jesus' salvation message - whosoever calls Jesus Lord is saved from eternity in Hell.
The rest of this passage (Luke 12:13-57 is much a repeat of the message given by Jesus about a year and a half earlier in the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus tells His chosen disciples they will be subjected to very strict standards and trials.
Luk 12:8 Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God: Luk 12:9 But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.
Luk 12:49 I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled? Luk 12:50 But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished! Luk 12:51 Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division:
The Parable of "The Rich Fool": Jesus uses this “certain rich man” in three parables: this one “The Rich Fool”, “The Unjust Steward”, and “The Rich Man and Lazarus”. He was a chief priest and no doubt well versed in scripture and so received ample warning from Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Jesus himself in his sermon condemning the whole crowd which was running the temple (Matthew chapter 23). Three days later this man together with the rest of his crew of scribes and Pharisees had Jesus crucified.
The Parable of "The Faithful and the Evil Servants": The disciples have responsibility and accountability; responsibility to preach the gospel of repentance from sin, an accountability for the sins of those who fail to get the message due to the disciple’s negligence. Jesus gives them fair warning that he will check in on them at a time when they may least expect.
The Parable of "Faithful and Wise Steward": Yes Peter, Jesus was talking about you and anyone else who is given the special call and gifts to be His (Jesus’) apostle, disciple, preacher, or church leader.
14. A.D. 29 - Judea - Repent or Parish
15. A.D. 29 - Judea - The Barren Fig Tree
The Parable of " The Barren Fig Tree": The Jews are to get just a short time more to repent and turn to Jesus. If the temple priest system does not start to bear fruit of God loving people it will be destroyed; which it was in 70 A.D.
16. A.D. 29 - Judea - Crippled Woman Healed
17. A.D. 29 - Judea - Parables of the Mustard Seed and Leaven
The Parable of "The Mustard Seed ": Beware of false teachers who shall bring damnable heresies into the church.
The Parable of "The Leaven": Beware of sin and false doctrine in the church. Its nature is to grow.
18. Winter A.D. 29 - Jerusalem - Feast of Dedication
This passage contains some confusing statements but they make complete sense if it is kept in mind that Jesus is explaining that God does the choosing when it comes to selecting those qualified to be His full time agents, His missionaries, His sheep. It is not a matter of free will. It is not open to all.
This passage should not be used to prove the Calvinistic doctrine that God has determined who is qualified for salvation. That is open to all, a matter of free will choice for each of us.
Joh 10:25 Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of me. Joh 10:26 But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. Joh 10:27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
19. Winter A.D. 29 - Withdrawal Beyond Jordan
20. Winter A.D. 29 - Perea - Return to Jerusalem
Two points here:
When a disciple asks Jesus if few will be saved, He doesn't say yes. He says many will come to salvation from all over the world, but they will come God's way.
And He tells the Pharisees that He will be sacrificed by them in Jerusalem according to God's plan.
Luk 13:23 Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them, Luk 13:24 Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.
Luk 13:29 And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God.
21. Winter A.D. 29 - Perea - Meal with a Pharisee Ruler
The Parable of "Best Places": This is a reminder to the proud Pharisees in the crowd of the many passages in scripture that God prefers the humble. (If they are to get an invitation to “The Marriage Supper of the Lamb”, they must first humble themselves, turn from their sin and look to Jesus as their savior.)
The Parable of "The Great Supper": Yes, it is a blessing to eat bread in the kingdom of God but the choice is yours to make. All are invited.
22. Winter A.D. 29 - Perea - Demands of Discipleship
The Parable of "Building a Tower, a King Making War": When you enlist in Jesus’ army be prepared to give it everything you have. If you don’t, there is a steep penalty.
23. Winter A.D. 29 - Perea - Parables of Lost Sheep, Coins, Son
The Parable of "The Lost Sheep": We are all lost sheep and the joy in heaven will be just as great for each of us who repents of our sins and trusts Jesus as our shepherd.
The Parable of "The Lost Coin": The scribes and Pharisees are just as lost if not more so than the publicans and sinners.
The Parable of "The Prodigal Son": The elder son is still dead to sin but doesn’t know it.
24. Winter A.D. 29 - Perea - Parables of the Unjust Steward, Rich Man and Lazarus
The Parable of "The Unjust Steward": You apostles and disciples, if you decide to be slothful in your duties of ministry, do it at my expense, not my sheep’s.
The Parable of "The Rich Man and Lazarus": This is not a parable; Lazarus was literally raised from the dead to demonstrate to the priests their need for repentance. Their answer was to plot the death of both him and Jesus.
25. Winter A.D. 29 - Perea - Lessons on Service
The Parable of "Unprofitable Servants": What ever we get from God is purely a gift, he does not need our services.
26. Winter A.D. 29 - Perea to Bethany - Resurrection of Lazarus
The main purpose of this event, the death and resurrection of Lazarus, Jesus states twice (John 11:4 and 11:15).
He staged it to strengthen the belief of His disciples that He is the source of eternal life.
Joh 11:4 When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.
Joh 11:15 And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him.
Joh 11:22 But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee.
27. Winter A.D. 29 - Reaction of the Pharisees
However, the resurrection of Lazarus had a second purpose: to show the corruption of the chief priests and the Pharisees. It strengthened their determination to put Jesus to death.
Joh 11:53 Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put him to death.
28. and 29. A.D. 30 - Samaria, Galilee - Last Journey, Heals Ten Lepers
30. A.D. 30 - Samaria, Galilee - Lesson on the Coming Kingdom
31. A.D. 30 - Samaria, Galilee - Parables - Persistent Widow, Pharisee and Tax Collector
The Parable of "The Importunate Widow": If you want answered prayer, your first prayer must be to repent of your sins and place your trust in Jesus.
The Parable of' "The Pharisee and the Publican": Pride is a red warning light of sin, specially for those in a position of religious authority.
32. A.D. 30 - Samaria, Galilee - Doctrine of Divorce
33. A.D. 30 - Perea - Jesus Blesses Children
Little children, young children, infants, this event is proof that they are pure in God's eyes.
Only until we reach a certain point of maturity are we held accountable for sin.
Luk 18:16 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Luk 18:17 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.
34. A.D. 30 - Perea - Rich Young Ruler
35. A.D. 30 - Perea - Laborers of the Eleventh Hour
The Parable of "The Labourers in the Vineyard": What God says is fair payment is fair payment just based on the fact that He says so.
36. A.D. 30 - Near Jordan - Foretells Death
The most wonderful event in the history of the world is about to take place a quarter of a year from now - the death, burial, and resurrection of God's Son Jesus, the atonement for the sins of all.
Jesus now informs His chosen ones of exactly how and when His sacrifice will take place. He is preparing them for their job of spreading the good news of this atonement around the world.
Mat 20:17 And Jesus going up to Jerusalem took the twelve disciples apart in the way, and said unto them, Mat 20:18 Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief priests and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death, Mat 20:19 And shall deliver him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify him: and the third day he shall rise again.
37. A.D. 30 - Near Jordan - Ambition of James and John
Jesus has just revealed His upcoming sacrifice and the first reaction of His disciples was to squabble over positions of authority in His Kingdom.
Now Jesus reveals the reason for His sacrifice is to serve others, to pay the sin penalty for "many" and that His disciples are to emulate Him in such service not in authority.
Mat 20:28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
38. A.D. 30 - Jericho - Blind Bartimaeus Healed
39. A.D. 30 - Jericho - Zacchaeus
Zacchaeus is a Jew. He has broken God's commandments to the Jews. He has repented of his sins and now looks to Jesus as Lord, the promised Messiah. Jesus pronounces him saved.
There is no hint that Zacchaeus realizes his salvation will be accomplished in another week or so by Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection.
Luk 19:10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
40. A.D. 30 - Jericho - The Minas
Here is more instruction and warning to His chosen disciples. They are all to be given an equal amount of spiritual gifts to enable them to perform their assigned jobs of spreading the salvation message.
Depending on their performance, they will be rewarded more spiritual gifts and authority in the future. None will lose their salvation.
But things look very bad for the currant Jewish religious leaders who refuse to follow Jesus a Messiah. They face spiritual death.
Luk 19:26 For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him. Luk 19:27 But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.
The Parable of "The Minas": First comes this parable about the gift of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit that Jesus will shortly after his resurrection confer on ten of his apostles. The Holly Spirit is infinite and does not come more to some and less to others. A few days later Jesus relates the parable of the “talents”. That has to do with the conferring of spiritual gifts. These do come in packages of varying amounts. The point of both parables is that the apostles will be judged for their actions in the use of these gifts. Sloth in the use of Spiritual gifts is penalized more severely than sloth practiced by one indwelt by the Holy Spirit. Which leads one to think that a person who receives water baptism a la John the Baptist for repentance of sin can receive spiritual gifts prior to (or if ever) receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit at the time of taking Jesus as a personal savior.
41. and 42. A.D. 30 - Bethany - Return to Home of Lazarus and Plot to Kill Lazarus
VII. Final Week at Jerusalem - Spring A. D. 30
1. Sunday - Bethany, Jerusalem, Bethany - Triumphal Entry
Here we have Jesus' disciples doing just what He has been training them to do: proclaim to all that will hear that Jesus is our Messiah.
And Jesus tells His enemies that if the disciples don't do that job the stones - works of God's creation will tell all willing to hear to look to their creator for salvation.
Luk 19:37 And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen; Luk 19:38 Saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest. Luk 19:39 And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disciples. Luk 19:40 And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.
2. Monday - Bethany to Jerusalem - Fig Tree Cursed
3. Monday - Jerusalem - Attraction of Sacrifice
Jesus explains His mission to the chief religious rulers and is backed up by the voice of God from heaven.
Still they refuse to follow Him.
Joh 12:25 He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. Joh 12:26 If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour. Joh 12:27 Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour. Joh 12:28 Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again. Joh 12:29 The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered: others said, An angel spake to him.
Joh 12:42 Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: Joh 12:43 For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
4. Tuesday - Bethany to Jerusalem - Withered Fig Tree
5. Tuesday - Jerusalem - Sanhedrin Challenge Jesus
The Parable of "The Two Sons": The chief priests and elders convict them selves out of their own mouths of refusing to do the work of God, that is repent and believe on Jesus.
The Parable of "The Wicked Husbandmen": This was Jesus’ last warning to the chief priests and elders. Three days later they had him crucified.
The Parable of "The Wedding Feast": God here warns that his old covenant with Israel will be cancelled and be superseded by a new one that covers all humanity.
6. Tuesday - Jerusalem - Tribute to Caesar
7. Tuesday - Jerusalem - Sadducees Question the Resurrection
8. Tuesday - Jerusalem - Pharisees Question Commandments
9. Tuesday - Jerusalem - Jesus and David
10. Tuesday - Jerusalem - Jesus' Last Sermon
Jesus continues the theme of this day: The Jewish religious leaders have condemned themselves to hell by their corruption. They are the ones to blame for the destruction of the temple and of all Jerusalem which is to come in another forty years.
Mat 23:37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Mat 23:38 Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.
11. Tuesday - Jerusalem - Widow's Mite
12. Tuesday - Mt. of Olives - Jesus Tells of the Future
The temple system of worship came to a halt because it ceased to produce fruit for God.
The current church system has endured for nearly two thousand years but God may very well bring it also to an end if it too ceases to produce good fruit.
Mat 24:30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. Mat 24:31 And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
The Parable of "The Fig Tree": The temple and system of priests will end in the lifetime of those alive today. However, those who follow Jesus will have their names written in his book, “The Lamb’s Book of Life”, and live forever.
The Parable of "The Absent Householder": This is another red alert from the Lord to his servants to not let down on their jobs. There is a two fold reason to be faithful. The salvation message will be thereby better spread to a lost and dying world and to identify the faithful servants for even greater positions of service in the spiritual realm.
13. Tuesday - Mt. of Olives - Parables of the Ten Virgins, Talents, and Sheep and Goats
The Parable of "The Wise and Foolish Virgins": The good disciple will keep his powers of ministry in peak condition at all times through an active prayer life. To neglect to do so is to risk missing out on the rewards to be passed out on awards night (Marriage Supper of the Lamb).
The Parable of "The Talents": Those chosen as apostles and disciples are to be blessed with spiritual powers of different types and amounts. They are expected to use these powers in spreading the gospel and to increase them through exercising faith, fasting and prayer. Those that use these powers well and increase them will be blessed with further responsibilities in heaven. Those who are slothful with their spiritual gifts will have them taken away and (harsh as it may seem) will them selves be rejected from heaven.
The Parable of "The Sheep and the Goats": Jesus continues the teaching of his disciples that they must be faithful in the use of his gifts of spiritual powers to spread the word. Those who meet the needs of ministry as they arise will be blessed, those who neglect will be rejected.
14. Tuesday - Mt. of Olives - Jesus Tells Date of Crucifixion
Only a few weeks ago Jesus informed His disciples of His upcoming sacrifice.
Now He continues the countdown to its occurrence. There are two more days to go.
Mat 26:2 Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover, and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified.
15. Tuesday - Bethany - Anointing by Mary - Again
16. Tuesday - Judas Contracts the Betrayal
17. Thursday - Jerusalem - Preparation for the Passover
18. Thursday P.M. - Jerusalem - Passover Eaten, Jealousy Rebuked
Jesus enjoys the fellowship of eating with His apostles and He tells them it won't happen again until after His resurrection.
Peter informs us in Acts 10:41 that He did make good on this promise.
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.
Luk 22:15 And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer: Luk 22:16 For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.
Luk 22:27 For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.
19. Thursday P.M. - Upper Room - Feet Washed
For one last time Jesus tells His disciples they must have a servant attitude.
Joh 13:8 Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me.
Joh 13:15 For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.
20. Thursday P.M. - Upper Room - Judas Revealed
The future looks dark for Judas.
But he did repent. Depending on his heart attitude toward Jesus, we may yet hope to see him in heaven.
The main lesson in this event for the disciples is to increase their knowledge that Jesus has fulfilled all the Old Testament predictions concerning the Messiah.
Mat 26:24 The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born.
21. Thursday P.M. - Upper Room - Jesus Warns of Further Desertions
The lesson here is for Jesus' disciples. God knows their weaknesses long before they show them.
This should remind them to trust in God for the strength to carry them forward in their duties.
Mat 26:32 But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee.
22. Thursday P.M. - Upper Room - Institution of the Lord's Supper
This may be the passage in the Gospels which most clearly shows the reason for Jesus' sacrifice - for the remission of our sins.
Mat 26:28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. Mat 26:29 But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom.
23. Thursday P.M. - Jerusalem - Last Speech to the Apostles
Jesus devotes His last words to His disciples to strengthen their courage through His death, burial, and resurrection.
He tells them:
1. He will care for them and prepare a place for them in heaven.
2. God will meet their needs through prayer.
3. They will have the indwelling of The Holy Spirit for their constant guidance.
4. They have been specially selected by God to perform their duties as disciples.
5. The Jewish religious leaders will have completely revealed their hatred for God and His Messiah.
6. Shortly after His death, He will resurrect and teach them not with parables but with words of meaning clear to all.
Joh 14:1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. Joh 14:2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. Joh 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. Joh 14:4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
Joh 14:13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. Joh 14:14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. Joh 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments. Joh 14:16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Joh 14:17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. Joh 14:18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.
Joh 15:16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
Joh 15:22 If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin. Joh 15:23 He that hateth me hateth my Father also. Joh 15:24 If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father. Joh 15:25 But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause. Joh 15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:
Joh 16:7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
Joh 16:16 A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.
Joh 16:25 These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father.
Joh 17:8 For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me.
24. Thursday-Friday -Mt. Olives - The Grief of Gethsemane
Jesus reveals His complete humanity by expressing His wish not to undergo His sacrifice.
He shows His divinity by His complete willingness to obey the will of God The Father.
Mat 26:39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.
Mat 26:42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.
25. Friday - Gethsemane - Betrayal
Judas has rejected Jesus as the predicted Messiah.
But that rejection and betrayal only goes to further prove that Jesus is what He claims to be.
Mat 26:56 But all this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled.
Psa 41:9 Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me.
26. Friday - Jerusalem - Examined by Annas
27. Friday - Jerusalem - Trial by Caiaphas
Now the guilt of the high priest is complete. He has received it right from the Son's mouth that He is what He Claims to be and the high priest has rejected Him.
Mat 26:64 Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
28. Friday - Jerusalem - Peter's Triple Denial
29. Friday - Jerusalem - Condemnation by the Council
Just as with the high priest Caiaphas, the rest of the council proves their unfitness for their jobs. They reject the very God they were appointed to serve.
Luk 22:69 Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of the power of God.
30. Friday - Jerusalem - Suicide of Judas
31. Friday - Jerusalem - First Appearance Before Pilate
Little does Pilate realize the person on trial here is himself.
He recognizes Jesus as spiritual king of the Jews but fails to respond when Jesus tells him He is also spiritual King of all who hear His voice.
Joh 18:36 Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. Joh 18:37 Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
32. Friday - Jerusalem - Jesus Before Herod
33. Friday - Jerusalem - Second Appearance Before Pilate
34. Friday - Jerusalem - Mockery by Roman Soldiers
35. Friday - Jerusalem - Led to Golgotha
36. Friday - Calvary - Events of First Three Hours on Cross
37. Friday - Calvary - Last 3 Hours on Cross
The fact that God the Father would forsake God the Son as He died on the cross was predicted by David a thousand years before the event.
This is just one of dozens of examples of how Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophesies for the coming Messiah.
Psa 22:1 <To the chief Musician upon Aijeleth Shahar, A Psalm of David.> My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?
Mat 27:46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?
Joh 19:28 After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst. Joh 19:29 Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a spunge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth. Joh 19:30 When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.
38. Friday - Calvary - Events Attending Jesus' Death
39. Friday - Jerusalem - Burial of Jesus
40. Friday - Jerusalem - Tomb Sealed
41. Friday - Saturday - Jerusalem - Women Watch
VIII. The Resurrection though the Ascension - A.D. 30
1. Dawn of First Day, Sunday - Near Jerusalem - Women Visit the Tomb
This is the most important event in the Gospels.
Without it, as Paul says: "...your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins."
Mat 28:7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.
Luk 24:6 He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, Luk 24:7 Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.
1Co 15:17 And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins.
2. Dawn of First Day, Sunday - Near Jerusalem - Peter and John See the Empty Tomb
3. Dawn of First Day, Sunday - Near Jerusalem - Jesus’ Appearance to Mary Magdalene
God the Son has been forsaken by God the Father, has shed His blood for the remission of our sins, has suffered death on the cross and a three day separation from His Father.
His first act after His rebirth is to renew His fellowship with His Father in heaven.
Then He can come back to earth and further instruct His apostles on spreading the good news - the penalty for our sins has been paid.
Joh 20:17 Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.
4. Dawn of First Day, Sunday - Near Jerusalem - Jesus’ Appearance to the Other Women
5. Dawn of First Day, Sunday - Near Jerusalem - Guards' Report of the Resurrection
6. Sunday Afternoon - Jesus' Appearance on the way to Emmaus
After reestablishing fellowship with His Father, Jesus is quick to return to earth to begin the process of spreading the Good News.
Jesus teaches two ordinary disciples how He has fulfilled Old Testament prophesy concerning the Messiah. These two immediately relate their experience to the apostles.
This is a living example to His apostles and to all His missionaries of what and how to teach the world.
Luk 24:25 Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: Luk 24:26 Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? Luk 24:27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.
Luk 24:32 And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?
7. Late Sunday - Jerusalem - Jesus Appears to Ten without Thomas
Now and for a few more times to come, Jesus tells His apostles to go out and tell.
As promised shortly before His sacrifice, Jesus instills them with a guide and comforter, The Holy Ghost.
And He reminds them of their main message to the world: look to Jesus for the remission of your sins.
Joh 20:21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. Joh 20:22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: Joh 20:23 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.
8. One Week Later - Jerusalem - Appearance with Thomas
Thomas can certainly lay claim to have been the greatest doubter in creation.
He had it from ten eye witnesses, all apostles chosen by God, all close friends, he had their testimony that Jesus arose from the dead and he chose to disbelieve.
All of us who read the Gospels have that same freedom of choice
Joh 20:29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. Joh 20:30 And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: Joh 20:31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.
9. During 40 Days until Ascension - Galilee - Jesus Appears to Seven by Galilee
10. During 40 Days until Ascension - Mt. in Galilee - Appearance to 500
11. During 40 Days until Ascension - Mt. in Galilee - Great Commission
12. During 40 Days until Ascension - Mt. Olivet - The Ascension
And just after we might have thought that Thomas deserved the title of world champion doubter, we have it from Matthew that some apostles continued to doubt their very own eyes that Jesus had conquered death.
But the hope of the world rests on those who do believe, accept the power as promised, and go out and teach as instructed.
Mat 28:16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. Mat 28:17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. Mat 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Mat 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Mat 28:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
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