Messages From The Gospels

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Message From The Gospels

Introduction

Adam and Eve God created man in His likeness of love, faithfulness, mercy, peace, and an eternal soul. He put the man in a selected place on earth He previously created called in our Bible Eden, Garden of Eden or Paradise. Man was then given only a few instructions, and commands.

• God told them, be fruitful, and multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moved upon the earth. (Genesis 1:28).
• The LORD God took man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. (Genesis 2:15)
• You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.” (Genesis 2:16-17).

When tempted to eat of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, they yielded to their pride and chose themselves over God. Satan now has control over man by death. Their disobedience resulted in the need for forgiveness to be restored to God. “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; He will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” (Genesis 3:15). Die relates to physical death as the tree of life was removed. It also relates to spiritual death. Then God began

4 the process of restoring man unto Himself through the “He” mentioned above. He will crush implies Satan is no longer able to control man through death. The power of the serpent is in its head. The power of Satan was and is spiritual death. Therefore, by crushing his head his power over spiritual death will be crushed.

Summary of Adam and Eve: Adam and Eve were the first humans created by God in His likeness of love, faithfulness, mercy, peace, and with an eternal soul. They were placed in the Garden of Eden with the task of taking care of it and given only a few instructions to follow. However, they were tempted by Satan to eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil and chose self over God. As a result, they fell into sin and death, leading to the need for forgiveness and restoration to God. God promised to send someone who would crush the head of Satan and restore man unto Himself. This event marks the beginning of the process of restoring man unto God.

Abraham. After Abraham offered Isaac as a sacrifice God stated “because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you, and I will surely multiply your offspring as the stars of heaven and as the sand that is on the seashore. And your offspring shall possess the gate of his enemies, and in your offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because you have obeyed my voice." (Genesis 22:16-18).

• Abraham demonstrated his complete trust in God, by offering his son of promise as a sacrifice. And Isaac was willing to give his life by doing his father’s will.
• Abraham’s offspring will bless ALL people not just the

Jews. Later Christ blesses all nations by his sacrifice that brought forgiveness and redemption to all who commit to Him.

Moses "The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your brothers—it is to him you shall listen … And I will put my words in his mouth, and he shall speak to them all that I command him.” (Deuteronomy 18:15-16 … 18).

• Moses was a deliverer from physical bondage, a great leader, and a lawgiver.

David When your (David) days are fulfilled to walk with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring after you, one of your own sons, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build a house for me, and I will establish his throne forever. I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son. I will not take my steadfast love from him, as I took it from him who was before you, but I will confirm him in my house and in my kingdom forever, and his throne shall be established forever.'"(1 Chronicles. 17:11-14). Your offspring is singular. God will be His Father and He will be God’s Son God will establish a Kingdom for His Son The Son will set up a House, a dwelling place, for God and His people in the New Kingdom. his throne forever. I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son.

6 Summary of Abraham, Moses, and David: Abraham, Moses, and David were significant figures in the Bible with unique roles in God's plan for humanity. Abraham showed his complete trust in God by offering his son as a sacrifice and was promised that his offspring would bless all nations. Moses was a great leader, lawgiver, and deliverer from physical bondage. He prophesied that a prophet like him would come from among the people and speak God's words. David was promised by God that his offspring would establish an eternal Kingdom and set up a house for God and His people in the new kingdom. These figures played a crucial role in the history of God's people and their prophecies continue to inspire hope and faith in people to this day.

Joseph and Mary. From the promise to David, what were the Jews looking for? Their Messiah, an earthly liberator. But God’s promise to David was that one of his offspring would establish His kingdom and a home for God’s family in the kingdom David’s offspring would establish. This offspring would build a dwelling place of God. The promise did not say to restore David’s kingdom.

The time had come for the fulfillment of God’s promise to Adam and Eve, Abraham, Moses, and David.

Gabriel stated “you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” (Luke 1:31-33).

7 When the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law. (Galatians 4:4-5). His Son - God’s Son in the human body of Jesus of Nazareth - David’s offspring. To Redeem – purchase, deliver, set free, liberate.

“Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together (as husband and wife), she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins." (Matthew 1:18-21).

“Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth.” (Luke 2:4-7).

“An angel of the Lord appeared to them (shepherds nearby), and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:9-11).

8 “When the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, ‘Every male who first opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord") and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, "a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.’ Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said, "Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation (redemption, regeneration) that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel." (Luke 2:22-32). Consolation of Israel is what the rabbis call the Messiah the consoler, the comforter according to Thayer's Greek Lexicon.

“There was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband for seven years from when she was a virgin, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.” (Luke 2:36-38)

9 “Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom. And when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. his mother said to him, "Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been searching for you in great distress." And he said to them, ‘Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house.’” (Luke 2:41-49)

Summary of Joseph and Mary:

Joseph and Mary were chosen by God to be the earthly parents of Jesus Christ. The Jews were looking for their Messiah, an earthly liberator, but God promised David that one of his offspring would establish His kingdom and a home for God’s family in the kingdom that David's offspring would establish. This offspring would build a dwelling place for God. When the time came, Gabriel announced to Mary that she would conceive and bear a son named Jesus, who would be the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God would give him the throne of his father David. Mary was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit before she and Joseph came together. An angel appeared to Joseph in a dream, assuring him that Mary's child was from the Holy Spirit and that he should name the child Jesus, for he would save his people from their sins. Joseph and Mary traveled to Bethlehem for the census, and Jesus was born there. Shepherds nearby were visited by an angel who announced the birth of a Savior, Christ the Lord. Joseph and Mary brought Jesus to the temple, where

10 Simeon and Anna, who were waiting for the consolation of Israel, saw and recognized him as The Christ. When Jesus was twelve years old, Joseph and Mary found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening and asking questions.

Miracles Proved Jesus is God in a Human body.

“John the Baptist appeared in the desert of Judea. His message was, "Turn to God and change the way you think and act, (repent) because the kingdom of heaven is near." Isaiah the prophet spoke about John when he said, ‘A voice cries out in the desert: Prepare the way for the Lord! Make his paths straight!'" (Matthew. 3:1-3).

“But when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming to be baptized, he said to them, "You poisonous snakes! Who showed you how to flee from God's coming anger? Do those things that prove you have turned to God and have changed the way you think and act. Don't think you can say, 'Abraham is our ancestor.' I can guarantee that God can raise up descendants for Abraham from these stones. The ax is now ready to cut the roots of the trees (Judaism). Any tree that doesn't produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into a fire. I baptize you with water so that you will change the way you think and act. But the one who comes after me is more powerful than I. I am not worthy to remove his sandals. He (Jesus) will baptize (immerse) you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing shovel is in his hand, and he will clean up his threshing floor. He will gather his wheat into a barn, but he will burn the husks in a fire that can never be put out.” (Matthew 3:7-12). Jesus will remove those who do not change the way they think and act.

11 John baptized to call to the Jews attention they needed to change their way of thinking and acting (repent) not for the forgiveness of sins but to return to God’s command and forsake their rabbis’ teachings, and traditions. He was preparing them for the Messiah who would be the perfect atoning sacrifice to remove sin of those who turned to the Messiah. Messiah means deliverer, liberator.

“Why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?" John answered them, "I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know, even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie." (John 1:25-27).

“The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29-30). The world includes non-Jews.

“When Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased. ’Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil." … “Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him.” (Matthew 3:16- 4:1; 11).

“When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he returned to Galilee. Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.” (Matthew 4:12-13).

12 “From then on, Jesus began to tell people, "Turn to God and change the way you think and act, because the kingdom of heaven is near!" (Matthew 4:17).

“Jesus went all over Galilee. He taught in the synagogues and spread the Good News of the kingdom. He also cured every disease and sickness among the people.” (Matthew 4:17 also Mark 1:35-39; Luke 4:42-44).

“When the Lord saw her (the widow of Nain), he had compassion on her and said to her, "Do not weep." Then he came up and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And he said, "Young man, I say to you, arise." And the dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother.” (Luke 7:13-15).

“But he said to them, "You give them something to eat." They said, "We have no more than five loaves and two fish—unless we are to go and buy food for all these people." For there were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, "Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each." And they did so, and had them all sit-down. And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing over them. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. And they all ate and were satisfied. And what was left over was picked up, twelve baskets of broken pieces.” (Luke 9:13-17).

“One man was there who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had already been there a long time, he said to him, ‘Do you want to be healed?’ The sick man answered him, "Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am

13 going another steps down before me." 8 Jesus said to him, ‘Get up, take up your bed, and walk.’" (John 5:5-9).

“They came to the other side of the sea, to the country of the Gerasene. And when Jesus had stepped out of the boat, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit. He lived among the tombs. And no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain, for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and bruising himself with stones. And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and fell down before him. And crying out with a loud voice, he said, "What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me." For he was saying to him, "Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!" And Jesus asked him, "What is your name?" He replied, "My name is Legion, for we are many." And he begged him earnestly not to send them out of the country. Now a great herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside, and they begged him, saying, "Send us to the pigs; let us enter them." So, he gave them permission. And the unclean spirits came out, and entered the pigs, and the herd, numbering about two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the sea and were drowned in the sea.” (Mark 5:1-13).

A Canaanite woman from that region came out and was crying, "Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely oppressed by a demon." But he did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, "Send her away, for she is crying out after us." He answered, "I was sent only to the

14 lost sheep of the house of Israel." But she came and knelt before him, saying, "Lord, help me." And he answered, "It is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs." She said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." Then Jesus answered her, "O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire." And her daughter was healed instantly.” (Matthew 15:22-28).

“A centurion came to him, asking for help. ‘Lord,’ he said, ‘my servant lies at home paralyzed and in terrible suffering.’ Jesus said to him, ‘I will go and heal him.’ The centurion replied, ‘Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, 'Go,' and he goes; and that one, 'Come,' and he comes. I say to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it.’ When Jesus heard this, he was astonished and said to those following him, "I tell you the truth, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.” (Matthew 8:5-11).

“Now when Mary came to where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet, saying to him, ‘Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.’ When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in his spirit and greatly troubled. And he said, "Where have you laid him?" They said to him, "Lord, come and see." Jesus wept. So, the Jews said, "See how he loved him!" But some of them said, "Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man also have kept this man from dying?" Then Jesus, deeply moved again, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it. Jesus said, "Take away the stone." Martha, the sister of the dead man, said to him, "Lord, by this time there will be an odor, for he has been dead

15 four days." Jesus said to her, "Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?" So, they took away the stone. And Jesus lifted up his eyes and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this on account of the people standing around, that they may believe that you sent me." When he had said these things, he cried out with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out." The man who had died came out, his hands and feet bound with linen strips, and his face wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, "Unbind him, and let him go." (John 11:32-44).

Demons recognized He was God:

“In the synagogue, there was a man who had the spirit of an unclean demon, and he cried out with a loud voice, ‘"Ha! What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are— the Holy One of God." (Luke 4:33-34).

The Masses shouted: “As Jesus approached Jerusalem shortly before His crucifixion “They brought the donkey and the colt and put on them their cloaks, and he sat on them. Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" And when he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up, saying, "Who is this?" And the crowds said, "This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee." (Matthew 21:7-11).

16 Leaders of the Jews refused to admit “Many Jews who had visited Mary and had seen what Jesus had done believed in him. But some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. So, the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the council. They asked, "What are we doing? This man is performing a lot of miracles. If we let him continue what he's doing, everyone will believe in him. Then the Romans will take away our position and our nation. One of them, Caiaphas, who was chief priest that year, told them, ‘You people don't know anything. You haven't even considered this: It is better for one man to die for the people than for the whole nation to be destroyed.’ Caiaphas didn't say this on his own. As chief priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus would die for the Jewish nation. He prophesied that Jesus wouldn't die merely for this nation, but that Jesus would die to bring God's scattered children together and make them one. From that day on, the Jewish council planned to kill Jesus.” (John 11:45-53).

Everywhere Jesus went he performed acts (miracles) mortal man is unable to do proving He was “son of God.”

Summary of evidence of Jesus’ divinity. The miracles performed by Jesus are evidence that he is God in human form. John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus by calling on people to repent and turn back to God's commandments. John baptized people with water as a symbol of their desire to change their ways, but he also spoke of a coming Messiah who would be more powerful than he and would baptize people with the Holy Spirit and fire.

17 The Scriptures tell the event of Jesus' baptism, where the heavens opened, the Spirit of God descended upon Jesus like a dove, and a voice from heaven declared that Jesus was God's beloved Son. This event signaled the beginning of Jesus' public ministry, during which he traveled throughout Galilee, teaching in synagogues, and performing miracles, including healing the sick, feeding thousands of people with a few loaves and fish, and raising the dead.

The gospels of Matthew Mark, Luke, and John use these accounts of Jesus' miracles to argue that they provide evidence of his divine nature. The authors report that Jesus' miracles were not only acts of kindness but also displays of his power over nature and the supernatural realm, which only God could possess. The authors suggest that the impact of Jesus' miracles goes beyond mere human ability and points to a divine source of power.

Overall, the gospels present a case for the divinity of Jesus based on the miracles he performed during his ministry, which they argue provide evidence that Jesus was not merely a prophet or a teacher but rather God in human form.

Jesus Proclaims the Good News

After being tempted by the Devil Jesus returned to Galilee. What He said and did were recorded by Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Matthew

“And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom.” (4:23; Mark 1:14-15).

18

• "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
• "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
• "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
• "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
• "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
• "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
• "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
• "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
• "Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.
• Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (Matthew 5:3-12).

"Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” (Matthew 7:13-14).

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21).

19 One must know the Father’s will to be able to do it. Jesus is the Word and proclaimed it while on earth, therefore one must search Jesus’ teaching to learn the Father’s Word.

“So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, 33 but whoever denies (refuses to acclaim Jesus is God) or me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 10:32- 33).

"The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. The field is the world, and the good seed is the children of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the close of the age, and the reapers are angels. Just as the weeds are gathered and burned with fire, so will it be at the close of the age. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.” (Matthew 13:37-43).

“He answered them, ‘And why do you break the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition?’” (Matthew 15:3-4).

“Jesus answered him, "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. 18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell (Not Hell, but Greek haides the place (state) of departed souls-(Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance) shall not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:17-18).

20 Peter (from the Greek word Petros meaning a name) declared from divine inspiration that Jesus was God. The foundation of the Kingdom and House of God. This rock (from the Greek word Petra meaning a mass of rock) is a foundation rock. (From Thayer's Greek Lexicon).

“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself (does not put self first) and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? Or what shall a man give in return for his life? For the Son of Man is going to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay each person according to what he has done. Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom." (Matthew 16:24-28). His, Jesus’, kingdom, not David’s kingdom. Since those hearing are dead Jesus’ Kingdom is now present.

“Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?" And he said to him, "Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments." He said to him, "Which ones?" And Jesus said, "You shall not murder, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother, and, You shall love your neighbor as yourself." The young man said to him, "All these I have kept. What do I still lack?" Jesus said to him, "If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.” (Matthew 19:16-22).

21 This young man believed he could earn eternal life (since he stated what must I do) “what good deed must I do to have eternal life?" He left dissatisfied as he apparently depended on his wealth.

"What do you think? A man had two sons. And he went to the first and said, 'Son, go and work in the vineyard today.' And he answered, 'I will not,' but afterward he changed his mind and went. And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, 'I go, sir,' but did not go. Which of the two did the will of his father?" They said, "The first." Jesus said to them, "Truly, I say to you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes go into the kingdom of God before you. For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him. And even when you saw it, you did not afterward change your minds and believe him.” (Matthew 21:28-32). Talk is not obedience. Repentance followed by performance is obedience.

"The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding feast, but they would not come. Again he sent other servants, saying, 'Tell those who are invited, See, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast.' But they paid no attention and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, hile the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. Then he said to his servants, 'The wedding feast is ready, but

22 those invited were not worthy. Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.' And those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests. "But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment. And he said to him, 'Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?' And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, 'Bind him hand and foot and cast him into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' For many are called, but few are chosen." (Matthew 22:2-14).

Note: The King is God, the Son is Christ, and Christians are the Bride of Christ. Jesus proclaimed the Good News and performed miracles including raising dead people back to life. Proof He was Deity in a human body. Many Jews especially the leaders rejected Him and His message. Jesus’ the Lamb of God, offered His earthly body to God as the only sin offering which opened the door of forgiveness and redemption to all men.

Summary of the Gospel of Matthew:

The text focuses on Jesus proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God in Galilee, as recorded in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. He taught in synagogues and delivered a message of hope and salvation. Jesus also taught about the blessings that await those who follow God's commandments and the consequences for those who do not. He spoke about the importance of acknowledging him before

23 others and following him, even if it requires sacrificing worldly possessions. Jesus emphasized the need to follow God's will and warned against following human traditions that contradict

• He declared that Peter's confession of his divinity was the foundation of his church, and He predicted His second coming to judge everyone according to their deeds.

Mark

“And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed. And Simon and those who were with him searched for him, and they found him and said to him, "Everyone is looking for you." And he said to them, "Let us go on to the next towns, that I may preach there also, for that is why I came out." And he went throughout all Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and casting out demons.” (Mark 1:35-39). Jesus wanted many to be blessed by hearing the Good News that the Kingdom of Heaven was near.

“And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him, and when they had made an opening, they let down the bed on which the paralytic lay. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "My son, your sins are forgiven." (Mark 2:4-5). Their actions demonstrated their belief and faith.

"Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?" And when Jesus heard it, he said to them, "Those who are well have no need

24 of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners." (Mark 2:16-17). Those who think they are righteous and without sin believe they do not need forgiveness.

“And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem were saying, "He is possessed by Beelzebub," and "by the prince of demons he casts out the demons." (Mark 3:22).

“And when Jesus had stepped out of the boat, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit. He lived among the tombs. And no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain, for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains, he was always crying out and bruising himself with stones. And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and fell down before him. And crying out with a loud voice, he said, "What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God?“ (Mark 5:2-7).

“And he called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belts— but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics. And he said to them, "Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you depart from there. And if any place will not receive you and they will not listen to you, when you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them." (Mark 6:7-11).

25 “And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, ‘Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?" And he said to them, "Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written. 'This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.' You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.’" (Mark 7:5-8).

“And they came to Capernaum. And when he was in the house he asked them, "What were you discussing on the way?" But they kept silent, for on the way they had argued with one another about who was the greatest. And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, "If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all." And he took a child and put him in the midst of them, and taking him in his arms, he said to them, "Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me." (Mark 9:33-37). Pride in self, defeats will defeat the work of a “servant.”

"How difficult it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!" And the disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said to them again, "Children, how difficult it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God." And they were exceedingly astonished, and said to him, "Then who can be saved?" Jesus looked at them and said, "With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God." (Mark 10:23-28).

26 One’s wealth does not provide forgiveness.

“Jesus said, ‘Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.’" (Mark 10:29-31).

One must decide if family more important than Christ and forgiveness

“And Jesus answered them, "Have faith in God. Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses." (Mark 11:22-25).

Are we praying for a mountain in our life to be removed?

” Which commandment is the most important of all?" Jesus answered, "The most important is, 'Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these." And the scribe said to him, "You are right, Teacher. You have truly said that he is one, and there is no other besides

• And to love him with all the heart and with all the

27 understanding and with all the strength, and to love one's neighbor as oneself, is much more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices." And when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, he said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." And after that, no one dared to ask him any more questions.” (Mark 12:28-34). Not far from the Kingdom is not the same as in the Kingdom.

"But be on your guard. For they will deliver you over to councils, and you will be beaten in synagogues, and you will stand before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them. And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations. And when they bring you to trial and deliver you over, do not be anxious beforehand what you are to say, but say whatever is given you in that hour, for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit. And brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death. And you will be hated by all for my name's sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” (Mark 13:9-13).

Summary of Gospel of Mark:

This text highlights the actions and teachings of Jesus Christ as recorded by Mark in the Bible. Jesus proclaimed the Good News that the Kingdom of Heaven was near and wanted many people to hear it. He forgave the sins of a paralytic man because of his faith and belief in Him. Jesus associated with sinners and tax collectors, stating that He came for the sinners, not the righteous. He also criticized the Pharisees for leaving God's commandments to follow human traditions. Jesus sent out his disciples to preach and gave them authority over

28 unclean spirits. He reminded them that pride in oneself defeats the work of a servant. Jesus also stated that wealth does not provide forgiveness, and it is difficult for those with wealth to enter the Kingdom of God. However, all things are possible with God.

Luke

“He (Jesus) went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and he stood up to read. And the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to

• He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.’ And he rolled up the scroll and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. And he began to say to them, "Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing." Luke 4:16-21.

God’s Word to the Nations has “The Spirit of the Lord is with me. He has anointed me to tell the Good News to the poor. He has sent me to announce forgiveness to the prisoners of sin and the restoring of sight to the blind, to forgive those who have been shattered by sin, to announce the year of the Lord's favor."

This translation shows Jesus’s purpose was to forgive sins by His sacrifice. In doing so He performed miracles of

29 healing. Therefore, the Good News was forgiveness of sin allowing redemption.

“The people sought him and came to him, and would have kept him from leaving them, but he said to them, "I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns as well; for I was sent for this purpose." (Luke 4:42- 43).

“Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man! Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven; for so their fathers did to the prophets.” (Luke 6:22-23). Approval of man is earthly and worthless and nothing compared to the approval of God.

"Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, the poor have good news preached to them. And blessed is the one who is not offended by me." (Luke 7:22-23).

“Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God.” (Luke 8:1).

“A Sower went out to sow his seed.” … “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. The ones along the path are those who have heard. Then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word,

30 receive it with joy. But these have no root; they believe for a while, and in time of testing fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience.” (Luke 8:8:5 and 11-15). Gospel seed Sowers are not to exclude anyone, especially seekers.

“I will follow you wherever you go." And Jesus said to him, "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head." To another, he said, "Follow me." But he said, "Lord, let me first go and bury my father (wait until he dies)." And Jesus said to him, "Leave the dead to bury their own dead. But as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God." Yet another said, "I will follow you, Lord, but let me first say farewell to those at my home." Jesus said to him, "No one who puts his hand.

“And he said to them, "Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." (Luke 12:15-16).

“And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you. "Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and

31 no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Luke 12:29-34). Earthly possessions cannot provide eternal pleasures.

“Lord, will those who are saved be few?" And he said to them, "Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able to. When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, 'Lord, open to us,' then he will answer you, 'I do not know where you come from.'” (Luke 13:23-25). Many who seek are not willing to commit.

“When one of those who reclined at table with him heard these things, he said to him, ‘Blessed is everyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!’ But he said to him, ‘A man once gave a great banquet and invited many. And at the time for the banquet, he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, 'Come, for everything is now ready.' But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, 'I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it. Please have me excused.' And another said, 'I have bought five yokes of oxen, and I go to examine them. Please have me excused.' And another said, 'I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.' So the servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house became angry and said to his servant, 'Go out quickly to the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor and crippled and blind and lame.' And the servant said, 'Sir, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room. And the master said to the servant, 'Go out to the highways and hedges and compel people to come

32 in, that my house may be filled. For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste my banquet.'" (Luke 14:15-24).

A young son demanded his inheritance NOW and his father gave it to him. But he foolishly spent it. "But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your

• Treat me as one of your hired servants."' And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.' But the father said to his servants, 'Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.” (Luke 15:17-24).

All God’s children (people) have foolishly sinned. If we change our way of thinking and acting and return to God, He will forgive.

“And he said to his disciples, "Temptations to sin are sure to come, but woe to the one through whom they come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin. Causing one to sin can bring eternal destruction.

33 Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, 'I repent,' you must forgive him." (Luke 17:1-4).

“They were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them. And when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them to him, saying, "Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it." (Luke 18:15-17). A young child gives trust without reservation.

“And while some were speaking of the temple, how it was adorned with noble stones and offerings, he said, "As for these things that you see, the days will come when there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down." And they asked him, "Teacher, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when these things are about to take place?" And he said, "See that you are not led astray. For many will come in my name, saying, 'I am he!' and, 'The time is at hand!' Do not go after them. And when you hear of wars and tumults, do not be terrified, for these things must first take place, but the end will not be at once." (Luke 21:5-9).

The temple was the center of Judaism. All records of genealogy for the Levites were kept here in order to know who should be the High Priest. Within a few years the offspring of David, Jesus of Nazareth-Christ the Son of God, will establish HIS kingdom (His Church), a few decades later (76 A. D.) the Temple and Jerusalem will be completely destroyed.

34 “He told them a parable: "Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. As soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all has taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” (Luke 21:29-33).

Summary of the Gospel of Luke:

These passages from the Gospel of Luke highlight some of the teachings of Jesus and his actions during his ministry. Jesus preached the good news of the kingdom of God and performed miracles to help those who were sick or oppressed. He believed that the approval of God was more important than the approval of people, and he urged his followers to seek God's kingdom rather than earthly possessions.

However, Jesus also faced opposition from some religious leaders who accused him of using demonic powers to perform miracles. He warned his followers to be vigilant against greed and to strive to enter the narrow door to salvation.

The passages also illustrate the importance of commitment and perseverance in following Jesus, as well as the need to share the good news with others. Jesus believed that anyone could receive salvation, regardless of their background or status, and he welcomed all seekers to come and follow him.

35

John

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:1-5)

Jesus is the Word. His message of forgiveness is near.

“He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.” (John 1:10-13)

• It is most important to note Jesus did not forgive everyone of their sins. He only gives the right to have sins forgiven, not forgive everyone.

“The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29-30)

• The Lamb of God, Jesus, is the source one must seek to be cleansed of sin.

"Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Nicodemus said to him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?" Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3-5)

36

• Birth requires a union. To be born of water and spirit requires union of man and God. This is done through baptism into Christ’s blood.

“As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.” (John 3:14-15)

“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes (Greek word pistero meaning to commit to or trust in) him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.” (John 5:24)

“You do not have his word abiding in you, for you do not believe the one whom he has sent. You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life.” (John 5:38-40)

• The Scriptures do not give life. It is Christ who is life give life and He must reside in your inner being.

“Whoever feeds on (some versions have eats) my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever feeds on me, he also will live because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven, not as the fathers ate and died. Whoever feeds on this bread will live forever." (John 6:56-58)

• Feeds on or eats (Greek troógoon to gnaw, to chew) stresses the slow process; it is used metaphorically of the habit of spiritually feeding. (Vine's Expository Dictionary)

"When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own authority, but speak just

37 as the Father taught me. And he who sent me is with me. He has not left me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to him." (John 8:28-29)

“Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So, if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:34-36)

• Man has a choice to be a slave to sin or to appeal to God to be His servant. “Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 3:21)

“I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd. For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father." (John 10:14- 18)

“Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him." (John 14:6-7)

• Eternal life with “The Father” is accessible only through obedience to Christ.

38 "If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.” (John 14:15-17)

Summary of the Gospel of John:

This text from the Gospel of John emphasizes the importance of Jesus Christ and his message of forgiveness. It explains that Jesus is the Word, and through him, all things were made. It also notes that Jesus gives everyone the opportunity to have their sins forgiven. To be born again requires union with God, and this is done through baptism into Christ's blood. Christ is the source one must seek to be cleansed of sin. The Scriptures do not give life; it is Christ who is life and He must reside in your inner being. Through belief, and commitment, in Christ, one may have eternal life and freedom from sin. Jesus also identifies himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep and as the way, truth, and life, and no one comes to the Father except through him.

The Lamb of God

“I came from the Father and have come into the world, and now I am leaving the world and going to the Father." “When Jesus had spoken these words. He lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, "Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do. And now,

39 Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed.“ (John 16:28 - 17:1-5)

• Jesus’ work was to proclaim a spiritual Kingdom was near and that a new residing place for God, the heart of man, not a physical building.

“But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth. "I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” (John 17:13-21)

“The band of soldiers and their captain and the officers of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound him. First, they led him to Annas, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. It was Caiaphas who had advised the Jews that it would be expedient that one man should die for the people.” (John 18:12- 14)

• The process had begun for the sin sacrifice to be offered up to God.

“Then they led Jesus from the house of Caiaphas to the governor's headquarters. It was early morning.” (John 18:28)

40 “So, Pilate entered his headquarters again and called Jesus and said to him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" Jesus answered, "Do you say this of your own accord, or did others say it to you about me?" Pilate answered, "Am I a Jew? Your own nation and the chief priests have delivered you over to me. What have you done?" Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world." Then Pilate said to him, "So you are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say that I am a king. For this purpose, I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world— to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice." (John 18:33-37)

“So, they took Jesus, 17 and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called the place of a skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha. 18 There they crucified him.” (John 19:16-18)

“Pilate also wrote an inscription and put it on the cross. It read, "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." (John 19:19)

“After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), "I thirst." A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, "It is finished," and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” (John 19:28-30)

• Now the Lamb of God was sacrificed.

Summary of The Lamb of God:

The text tells the story of Jesus Christ's life and mission, as recorded in the book of John in the Bible. Jesus proclaims a

41 spiritual kingdom and a new residing place for God in the hearts of men, rather than a physical building. He also teaches his followers the truth and the word of God and prays for them to be sanctified (to make “holy” or “set apart” with a purpose) in the truth.

The text also describes Jesus' arrest, trial, and crucifixion, where he is offered as a sin-sacrifice to God. Jesus is brought before Pilate, who questions him about being the King of the Jews. Jesus clarifies that his kingdom is not of this world and that he came into the world to bear witness to the truth. He is then crucified, and Pilate writes an inscription declaring him the King of the Jews. Jesus dies on the cross, fulfilling the Scriptures and declaring that his mission is complete.

The Resurrection – Victory over Death, Satan’s hold over man

Now on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept, she stooped to look into the tomb. And she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping?" She said to them, "They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him." Having said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing. (John 20: 1-2, 11-14)

• Eternal Death had been removed. Satan defeated. Victory belonged to Christ.

“Jesus said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?" Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him,

42 "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away." Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned and said to him in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (Which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, "Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'" (John 20:15-17)

“On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you." When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you." And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit.” (John 20:19-22)

Christ’s resurrection proved He was God in a human body – Emanuel, God with us. Earlier Jesus told Martha “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. (John 11:25-26)

“Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe." Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." (John 20:26-29)

43 Following Satan unsuccessfully tempting Jesus, He went to the people God through Moses gave freedom from bondage and laws by which they could live pleasing to Him. He proclaimed to those who knew the law to repent (change the way you think, and act) for the Kingdom was near.

Summary “The Resurrection:”

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the central event in Christianity. According to the text, on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb where Jesus had been buried and found that the stone had been removed. She saw two angels who told her that Jesus had risen from the dead. Later, Jesus appeared to Mary and the other disciples, proving that He had conquered death and defeated Satan. His resurrection demonstrated that He was the Son of God and that eternal life was available to those who believed and were committed live for Him in Him.

Furthermore, the text explains that Jesus' resurrection was a sign that He was God in a human body, Emmanuel, meaning God with us. In John 11:25-26, Jesus told Martha, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he dies, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die." This statement emphasizes the importance of faith in Jesus as the path to eternal life. Jesus also instructed His followers to repent and change their ways, the way they think and act, as the Kingdom of God was near.

The Resurrection of Jesus is a pivotal event in Christianity, representing victory over death and Satan. Through His resurrection, Jesus demonstrated His divinity and provided the means for eternal life to those who believe in Him. The

44 Resurrection is a central tenet of Christian theology, emphasizing the importance of faith and repentance for those seeking a path to salvation.

Summary – of the Messages from the Gospels

Jesus’ Death and Resurrection:

• fulfilled God’s promise and crushed Satan’s power of death.
• blessed all people by providing the opportunity to be restored to God.
• As the offspring of David, He would in a few days on

Pentecost establish a Spiritual Kingdom, one not of this world where God put His people cleansed of sin by the blood of the “Lamb of God.” o On the day of Pentecost Day, the Father fulfilled His promise and Jesus poured out the Spirit. “Therefore, being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear.” (Acts 2:33) The Baptism with the Holy Spirit is what Jesus did with the Spirit on the day of Pentecost in fulfillment of the promise of the Father - Jesus poured out the Spirit on all flesh. The Spirit then became available to all saved people, independent of race (Jewish or heathen) or role in the government of God (priest, prophet, etc.).

Note: Baptism with the Spirit was always a promise and never a command. (From “The Holy Spirit” by Joe McKinney)

45 “Let all the house of Israel, therefore, know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified. "Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?" And Peter said to them, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself." And with many other words, he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, "Save yourselves from this crooked generation." So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. (Acts 2:36-41)

Summary – of the Messages from the Gospels:

The Messages from the Gospels center on Jesus' death and resurrection. The text highlights that Jesus' sacrifice fulfilled God's promise and crushed Satan's power of death, providing all people with the opportunity to be restored to God. As the offspring of David, Jesus established a spiritual kingdom on Pentecost, where God's people are cleansed of sin by the blood of the "Lamb of God."

The Scriptures emphasize the significance of the day of Pentecost, where the Father fulfilled His promise and poured out the Holy Spirit thus fulfilling the promise of the Father. This made the Spirit available to all saved people, regardless of their race or role in the kingdom of God.

The text concludes with a quote from Acts 2:36-41, where Peter urges people to repent (change the way they think and

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• and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of their sins. This promise is for all people, and those who received his word were baptized, with about three thousand souls added that day. Overall, the summary emphasizes Jesus' sacrifice and the opportunity it provides for people to be redeemed and restored to God.