A Walk Through the Bible 6.1

Transcription

1 A Walk Through the Bible 6.1 YOU ARE HERE S D S BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY A strange prediction God had been silent for a number of years, as we learned last week. In today s lesson, from Matthew and Luke, we will learn that He broke His silence one day when an angel talked to a priest named Zechariah, who was offering incense to God. His wife, Elizabeth, was unable to have children, and both Zechariah and Elizabeth were older. The angel told him that his wife would have a son named John. His purpose in life would be to prepare the people for the Lord. Back in those days, when a royal person was about to enter a city, someone would go ahead of him to prepare the people. It sounds like a King is about to appear! Zechariah asked the angel how he could believe this since he and his wife were so old. The angel answered, I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time (Luke 1:19-20 ESV). Sure enough, when Zechariah finally left the temple, he was unable to speak. Soon, Elizabeth discovered that she was going to have a baby! Gabriel announces more good news! God sent Gabriel to Galilee to a young virgin named Mary, who was engaged to be married to Joseph. He told her that God was with her. He told her that she was going to have a baby boy, who would be named Jesus. He also said, 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 1

2 A Walk Through the Bible 6.1 over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end (Luke 1:32-33 ESV). This confused Mary, who told the angel that this was impossible, since she was not married. The angel assured her that the Holy Spirit would come upon her. She answered him, Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word (Luke 1:38 ESV). What a wonderful statement! She had just been told that her life was going to be completely changed. Instead of getting upset, she said she was God s servant, and she accepted, with grace, God s plan for her life. Just as the angel predicted, Mary became pregnant, even though she was not married and was a virgin. When Joseph learned that she was going to have a baby, he assumed that she had cheated on him, so he was going to end the engagement. But an angel came to him and told him that her baby was conceived by the Holy Spirit. He told Joseph: She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins (Matthew 1:21 ESV). A baby is born! Mary visited Elizabeth, and when she came in, Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, and she blessed Mary. Mary praised God. At the right time, Elizabeth had a baby, a son. Everyone came to see the child and rejoiced with them! When they had the naming party, everyone thought he would be named Zechariah, after his father. Elizabeth told them that the child would be named John. Her friends and family argued with her! They pointed out that there was no one in the family named John. They went to Zechariah and asked him about the name. He took a tablet (remember, he could not speak!) and wrote, His name is John. Immediately, he was able to speak again! His name is John Obedient parents Joseph obeyed the angel and married Mary, but he kept himself from her 2

3 A Walk Through the Bible 6.1 until after she had given birth. The Roman king, Augustus, had ordered a census to be taken. This required everyone to return to his or her home town. Joseph and Mary traveled to Bethlehem because Joseph was from the tribe of Judah and was from the family of David. She gave birth to Jesus there. They put the child in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn. Wise men went to King Herod to ask where the King of the Jews was. They wanted to worship Him. Herod got very disturbed at this. Why would this disturb Herod? Because he s the king! He doesn t want any competition! When he sensed a threat to his power, he reacted very strongly. Herod asked his advisors where this king was to be born. They told him what the Bible says in Micah 5:2: But you, O Bethlehem, Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days (ESV). So, Herod called the wise men to him and told them to search for the child in Bethlehem. He asked them to come back and tell him where the child was so he could worship, too. A bright star led them to the baby, and they worshiped Him. But, God warned them in a dream not to report back to Herod. Another warning An angel appeared to Joseph and told him to take his family to Egypt because Herod was searching for them. Joseph obeyed the warning, and the family began its journey. In response, Herod killed every male child aged two and under. The people of the nation wept and mourned over all the needless deaths of the innocent children. This sounds familiar... The birth of Jesus fulfilled what was prophesied many years before. 3

4 A Walk Through the Bible 6.1 Micah 5:2: He would be born in Bethlehem and be from the tribe of Judah. Isaiah 7:14: He would be born to a virgin. Jeremiah 31:15: Women would be mourning over the death of their children. Hosea11:1: He would live in Egypt for a time. Isaiah 40:3 and Malachi 3:1: A messenger would go before Him. Notice that Jesus had no control over these things! A baby can t plan where or to whom he should be born! They are acts of God! What kind of child was He? We are told very little of Jesus childhood. The Bible tells us of one incident when He was 12 years old. He got separated from His parents, and when they found Him, He was in the Temple courts listening to the teachers and asking them questions. Okay, but so what? Why should the birth of one baby more than 2,000 years ago in a different part of the world be important to you? This baby is the Son of God. He could have stayed in Heaven with God, but He willingly came to earth, to be born as a helpless little baby to a young couple. Jesus obeyed God, and Mary obeyed God, and Joseph obeyed God. God is pleased when His people obey Him. The end of the matter Let s review what we ve studied today. An angel named Gabriel told the priest Zechariah that his wife, Elizabeth, would have a baby boy named John. Zechariah questioned this news, and Gabriel told him that he would be unable to speak until his words came true. Gabriel told Mary, a young virgin, that she would have a baby from the Holy Spirit, and his name would be Jesus. Mary s fiancé, Joseph, was going to end their engagement, but an angel told him that the baby was from God. 4

5 A Walk Through the Bible 6.1 Joseph believed the angel and married Mary. The king ordered a census, so everyone had to return to his home town. Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem. It was time for Mary to give birth, and there was no room in the inn. Mary had her baby, Jesus, in a manger. Wise men went to Herod to ask where the newborn king was. Herod asked his advisors about what the wise men said, and they told him what the Bible said about this. The wise men went to worship Jesus, and when they left, an angel told them not to return to Herod. When Herod realized he couldn t find the baby, he ordered all male babies under the age of two to be killed. Joseph and Mary were warned by an angel, and they moved to Egypt. Jesus, as a young boy, listened to the teaching in the Temple. If you learn nothing else, get this! Jesus is the Son of God, and His birth fulfilled prophecy! 5

6 A Walk Through the Bible 6.1 Let s learn it! 1. Which priest had a visit from an angel? 2. What was his wife s name? 3. What problem did they have? 4. According to Gabriel, what was the child s name and purpose in life? 5. Gabriel gave good news to what young virgin? 6. Who did Gabriel say would be the father of her child? 7. According to the angel, what was the child s name and purpose in life? 8. Why were Joseph and Mary traveling when she was close to giving birth? 9. Where did she have her baby? 10. Why did she have Him there? 11. Where did the family go to protect Jesus? 6

7 A Walk Through the Bible 6.1 For deeper thought... If an angel told you that God was going to change your life dramatically, what would your response be? List some of the things God did to protect this family. How does He protect you today? Write your memory verse here: What does this verse mean to you? 7

8 A Walk Through the Bible 6.2 YOU ARE HERE S D S BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY An unusual man Last week, we learned about two unusual births: one son born to a very old couple, and one son born to a virgin. In our lesson today, from Luke 3-4, Matthew 3-4, and John 1, we ll talk about both of these sons. You remember that John was selected by God to prepare the way for Jesus. John was a very unusual man, in several respects: He had an unusual way of dressing: he wore clothes of camel s hair with a leather belt. He had an unusual diet: locusts and wild honey. He had an unusual way of thinking: he was very humble and committed to doing God s will instead of his own. John prepared the way for Jesus by going throughout Jerusalem and the region of the Jordan River. He preached about Jesus by quoting from the book of Isaiah. He baptized many for the forgiveness of their sins. When the Pharisees and Sadducees came, he told them, I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire (Matthew 3:11 ESV). The priests and Levites asked John who He was because they were looking for the Messiah. Messiah meant an anointed person, usually a king, chosen for a special purpose. The priests knew the Old Testament, and they were eager for the Messiah to come! 1

9 A Walk Through the Bible 6.2 John told them plainly, I am not the Christ (John 1:20b ESV). Jesus comes to John One day, Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan where John was baptizing. Baptism means to immerse or to overwhelm. Today, some people use this word to mean sprinkling or pouring, but that is not what the word means. Baptism in the New Testament means being completely put under water. Jesus wanted John to baptize Him. John, being humble, said that Jesus should baptize him, instead. But Jesus told him, Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness (Matthew 3:15a ESV). John baptized Jesus in the Jordan River. When He came up from the water, an odd thing happened: the sky opened, and the Spirit of God came down like a dove and rested on Jesus. A voice was heard from heaven: This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased (Matthew 3:17b ESV). Temptation (Number One) After Jesus was baptized, He was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. While He was in the wilderness, He fasted (went without food) for 40 days. When Jesus was very hungry, the devil came to Him and said to Him, If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread (Matthew 4:3b ESV). Jesus responded by quoting Deuteronomy 8:3: Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4 ESV). Temptation (Number Two) Then the devil took Jesus to stand on the highest point of the temple. There, he challenged Him: If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, He will command his angels concerning you, and On their 2

10 A Walk Through the Bible 6.2 hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone (Matthew 4:6 ESV). Isn t this interesting? The devil is quoting Psalm 91: What does that tell you about the devil? Remember, he is very sly. Jesus responded by quoting scripture, this time from Deuteronomy 6:16: Again it is written, You shall not put the Lord your God to the test (Matthew 4:7 ESV). Temptation (Number Three) Then the devil took Him to a high mountain and showed Jesus all the kingdoms of the world. He told Jesus that he would give Him all this if He would only bow down and worship him! Wait a minute! You can t give away what is not yours! Do all the kingdoms of the world belong to the devil? Or, do they belong to the One who created them? Jesus once again answered him and quoted Deuteronomy 6:13: Be gone, Satan! For it is written, You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve (Matthew 4:10 ESV). From the devil to the angels The devil realized that Jesus would not give in and sin, so he left Him. Angels came and took care of Jesus. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15 ESV). Okay, but so what? By Jesus example, we learn how to handle temptation. Jesus knew the Scriptures, and that s what will help us most when we are tempted! 3

11 A Walk Through the Bible 6.2 The end of the matter Let s review what we ve studied today. John the Baptist was selected by God to lead the way to Jesus. John wore camel s hair clothing with a leather belt and ate locusts and wild honey. John was baptizing people in the Jordan River for the forgiveness of their sins. John denied that he was the Messiah. Jesus came to him to be baptized to fulfill all righteousness. After Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit led Him into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. The devil tempted Jesus three times. Each time He was tempted, Jesus answered by quoting the Bible. When the devil realized that Jesus was not going to sin, he left Him, and angels came to take care of Jesus. If you learn nothing else, get this! Jesus obeyed God, and He did not sin even though He was tempted. 4

12 A Walk Through the Bible 6.2 Let s learn it! 1. What did John the Baptist wear that was unusual? 2. What unusual food did he eat? 3. For what reason did John the Baptist baptize people? 4. For what reason was Jesus baptized? 5. List the three temptations the devil put before Jesus and His response. A. Temptation: Response: B. Temptation: Response: C. Temptation: Response: 6. What did the devil do after Jesus refused to be tempted the third time? 7. What happened after the devil left Jesus? 5

13 A Walk Through the Bible 6.2 For deeper thought... Do you think John might have been tempted to accept honor and glory from the people? Why did he refuse it, in your opinion? Why are we baptized today? Why wasn t Jesus baptized for this reason? What does Jesus response to temptation teach you? Let s look at each of the temptations presented to Jesus. What does each one tell you about how the devil works? Temptation #1: Command stones to become bread. 6

14 A Walk Through the Bible 6.2 Temptation #2: Throw yourself down. Temptation #3: All kingdoms could be His. What is unusual about the second temptation? What does this tell you about the devil? How can you prepare yourself to deal with temptation? Write your memory verse here: What does this verse mean to you? 7

15 A Walk Through the Bible 6.3 YOU ARE HERE S D S BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY Workers needed! Last week, we learned about John the Baptist and about Jesus baptism and temptation. Now, He s ready to go to work! As the old saying states, Many hands make light the work. Jesus needs some helpers to work with Him! Today s lesson, from Matthew 4, Mark 3, and Luke 5, tells us about these helpers. What s the job? Jesus main job was to make salvation possible for everyone. But, until it was time for Him to complete that task, His job was to teach people about God, to heal the sick, and to help people. His main job was one that only He could do, but He could allow others to help Him to teach and help people. The Bible tells us that Jesus met Simon, also called Peter, and his brother, Andrew, when he saw them fishing. These men made their living by fishing; this was not a way to relax. It was very hard work, involving standing in the water and casting out nets, which would get very heavy when they were full of fish. Jesus said to them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men (Matthew 4:19b ESV). They immediately stopped their work and followed Him! As they traveled together, Jesus saw two more brothers, James and John. They, too, were fishermen and were mending their nets. Jesus called to them, and they also stopped what they were doing to follow Him! Later, He saw a tax collector named Levi. He called to him, and he stopped his work to follow Jesus as 1

16 A Walk Through the Bible 6.3 well. These men were called apostles or disciples. A disciple is a follower. An apostle is one chosen by Jesus. Later, in Acts 1:22, an additional requirement was added: he must have been a witness to Jesus resurrection. More about these men Here is what we know about these apostles. The Bible does not give us a great deal of information about them personally. Simon, also called Peter, was a fisherman. He later wrote two books in the New Testament and preached the very first sermon after Jesus death and resurrection. Andrew, Simon Peter s brother. He also was a fisherman. James, the son of Zebedee. He was a fisherman. John, the brother of James. Jesus called these two men, Sons of thunder. Matthew, also called Levi, was a tax collector. Tax collectors were unpopular because they often got rich by overcharging people. Philip. Bartholomew. Thomas. James, the son of Alphaeus. Thaddaeus. He is listed as Thaddaeus in Matthew and Mark, but Luke calls him Judas, son of James. Simon the Zealot. Judas Iscariot. He betrayed Jesus, and any time he s mentioned in a list in the Bible, he is described as the one who betrayed Jesus. What did they do? Jesus gave them authority over unclean spirits, and He gave them the ability to heal diseases. They also were to spend time with Him, and they were to preach. Jesus sent out His twelve apostles and told them to go only to the Jewish people. He told them to proclaim that the kingdom of heaven was 2

17 A Walk Through the Bible 6.3 near and that they should repent and get ready! He also told them to travel light to take no food or extra clothes. Jesus said that they should stay with good people until they were finished working. Jesus told them that if anyone would not listen to them that they should just leave and to shake the dirt off their feet as they left that town. He warned them that people may not always be nice to them, but that God would help them to know what to say. He told them not to be afraid. They get results! When the apostles returned to Jesus, they told Him what had happened: they had cast demons out of people and healed many sick people. In the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, you read a lot about demon possession. Today, you don t hear about this, and this is why: the devil knew that Jesus was going to win the war of good versus evil, and that he did not have much time. He would send demons into people and give the demons control. Once Jesus died and was raised from the dead, the devil could no longer take control of people. That is why there is no demon possession today, though it happened often in Jesus time. Throughout the rest of the Gospels, you ll read of work that the apostles did. They were good helpers to Jesus and they were His friends, as well. And he said to them, Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation (Mark 16:15 ESV). Okay, but so what? There are a couple of things you can take away from this lesson. One is that friendship is important, and it s important that you choose the right friends. A true friend will help you to be a better person. Several times, the apostles said things that were not helpful, and Jesus corrected them. That may seem unkind, but a true friend will point out to you when you are making a mistake. A second thing that is important to know is that Jesus wanted help with His work. He still wants help today, and you can be a helper to Jesus. Jesus 3

18 A Walk Through the Bible 6.3 still needs people to tell others about God and how they can be saved from their sins. The end of the matter Let s review what we ve studied today. Jesus selected 12 men to be His helpers. These men were called apostles. At least five of the apostles were working when Jesus called them, and each stopped his work to follow Him. Jesus gave power to each apostle. The apostles were able to cast demons out of people and to heal people. The apostles spent time with Jesus and helped Him with His work. Jesus gave them careful instructions and then sent them out to preach and heal. God gave the apostles success. We are not told much about these apostles. Jesus needs friends and helpers today. If you learn nothing else, get this! Jesus needs friends and helpers today! 4

19 A Walk Through the Bible 6.3 Let s learn it! 1. What was Jesus main job? 2. Jesus gathered workers to help with which tasks? 3. What is an apostle? 4. What is a disciple? 5. List the twelve apostles. 6. What kind of job did four of them have before Jesus called them? 7. What did Jesus want them to do? 5

20 A Walk Through the Bible 6.3 For deeper thought... Why do we know so little about the apostles? What tells you that Jesus trusted these men? How did Jesus prepare His apostles for their work? How does He prepare workers today? How do you think the apostles felt when they heard Jesus say that not everyone would be nice to them? Did it help to hear that God would be with them? 6

21 A Walk Through the Bible 6.3 Think about your two closest friends. Do they help you to be a better person? Why do you like these people? What can you do today to help Jesus and be His friend? Write your memory verse here: What does this verse mean to you? 7

22 A Walk Through the Bible 6.4 YOU ARE HERE S D S BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY Jesus and sinners Last week, we learned that Jesus selected apostles to help Him in His work. Today, we ll study from Luke 5:17-26 and 7:36-50 to see that Jesus loves everyone even sinners and that He has the authority to forgive sins. Let s talk about sin Sin is a word that you don t hear much any more. James defines sin this way: So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin (4:17 ESV). Sin is a deliberate choice. We know that it is wrong to lie, to cheat and to hurt others, but sometimes we choose to do these things. This is sin. Often, we excuse our own sinful behavior, but we don t excuse the sinful behavior of others. We need to think honestly about our own sin. One reason sin is so terrible is because it has several bad consequences. Sin separates us from God. Isaiah 59:1-2a says, Behold, the LORD s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save, or his ear dull, that it cannot hear; but your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God (ESV). Sin hurts others. When you steal, you hurt the one from whom you ve stolen. When you gossip, you hurt the one you gossip about. Sin sets a bad example. When non-christians see a Christian sinning, they think all Christians are hypocrites, or they think that the sinful behavior is all right for everyone to do. Sin hurts God. He loves us and wants us to do the right thing. Sin leads to death. Romans 6:23 says, For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (ESV). 1

23 A Walk Through the Bible 6.4 Why are we talking about sin? We re talking about sin today because Jesus forgives sin. He forgave sin when He was on earth, and He forgives sin today. This is one of the many ways we know that He was the Son of God and has authority from God. We ll look at two different episodes in which Jesus forgave sin. A man with a problem (or two) Jesus was teaching, and Pharisees and other religious leaders were there listening. Who are these people? Scribes, Pharisees, and Sadducees were thought of as religious professionals and leaders. People respected and admired them, but Jesus treated them like everyone else! Some men wanted to bring in a man who was paralyzed. They had a problem, though, because there was a big crowd, and they didn t know how they would get their friend through the crowd. They went up on the roof and let their friend s bed down through the tiles in the roof so that he was set down right in front of Jesus.? Then, Jesus did an unusual thing. Instead of healing the man, He said, Man, your sins are forgiven you (Luke 5:20b ESV). This comment upset the people, especially the religious leaders. The religious leaders said, Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone? (Luke 5:21b ESV). Blasphemy is a word we don t use much today. It means to speak against God or show a lack of respect toward Him. But think about what they ve said: Jesus has forgiven sins, and they are correct when they say that God alone can forgive sins. That means that Jesus is truly God s Son! Jesus knew their concerns, so He asked them a question: Which is easier, to say, Your sins are forgiven you, or to say, Rise and walk? (Luke 5:23 ESV). 2

24 A Walk Through the Bible 6.4 Taking care of the second problem To show the people that Jesus had genuine power, He said to the paralyzed man, I say to you, rise, pick up your bed and go home (Luke 5:24b ESV). The man immediately got up, picked up his bed, and went home, glorifying God. A sinful woman One day, Jesus was at the home of a Pharisee. While He was at the table, a woman who was a sinner came to the Pharisee s house and began putting ointment on His feet, wiping them with her hair, kissing them and crying on them. We have so many questions here! What was her sin? We aren t told. Why would she do this? She was crying probably because she was sorry for her sins. She was showing repentance and also honor to Jesus. The Bible tells us what the Pharisee was thinking: If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a sinner (Luke 7:39b ESV). The Bible then says an astonishing thing. It says that Jesus answered him! Jesus knew what he was thinking just as He knows what all of us are thinking! Jesus told him a story about someone who lends money. The money lender had loaned 500 denarii to one man and 50 to another. Neither of the men were able to pay, so the money lender forgave the debt. Then, Jesus asked the Pharisee, Now which of them will love him more? (Luke 7:42b ESV). The Pharisee admitted that the one who owed more money would love the money lender more. Then, Jesus reminded the Pharisee, whose name was Simon, that when He came into the house, Simon did not offer water to wash His feet, he did not kiss Him, and he did not pour oil on His head. Jesus said that the woman had not stopped washing His feet and anointing and kissing Him. He finished by saying, Therefore, I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little (Luke 7:47 ESV). 3

25 A Walk Through the Bible 6.4 Jesus then shocked the people by saying to the woman, Your sins are forgiven (Luke 7:48 ESV). Why were the people shocked? Because they knew that only God has the authority to forgive sins. What does this say about Jesus? That He is able to forgive sins because He is the Son of God! 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 ESV). A little more about sin First, we need to realize that everyone sins. A sin can be something you do deliberately like if you tell a lie, and you know it s wrong but you do it anyway. You can also sin by NOT doing something! For instance, if you see someone who is seriously hurt and you do nothing, or if you don t come to church even though you re not sick, this is sin. Only God can forgive sins. Church leaders can t forgive your sins. Your parents can t forgive your sins. Only God forgives sin. When Jesus announced that the man s sins were forgiven, it was because He has authority from God to forgive sins. Also, it s not right to ask God to forgive sins that you are planning to continue doing. If a person has the habit of cheating on tests, it s wrong for him to ask God to forgive him if he s already planning to do it again. That s why Jesus told the woman to sin no more. Repentance means to stop the sin and do what s right instead. SIN One other thing: forgiveness of sins can only come through Jesus now! In John 14:6, the Bible says, Jesus said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me (ESV). God cannot be in the presence of sin, so we must go through Jesus and have our sins forgiven before we can be with God. Okay, but so what? One of the ways we know that Jesus is the Son of God is that He has the 4

26 A Walk Through the Bible 6.4 power to forgive sins. It is easy to sin, but God still loves us and wants us to give up our sins and be united with Him. That s why He sent Jesus to live a sinless life so that He could be our sacrifice and forgive our sins. The end of the matter Let s review what we ve studied today. Sin is a deliberate choice with many bad consequences. Sin separates us from God and hurts others. Jesus has power from God to forgive sins. Some men brought a paralyzed friend to Jesus so He could heal the man. Jesus shocked everyone by declaring that the man s sins were forgiven. Then, Jesus healed the paralyzed man, showing that He had authority from God. A sinful woman washed Jesus feet with her tears and used her hair as a towel. Simon, a Pharisee, was shocked that Jesus would let a sinful woman touch Him. Jesus told Simon a story about a money lender who had forgiven debts. Jesus told Simon that the woman had many sins, and then He forgave the woman s sins. Jesus can forgive our sins when we repent and obey. If you learn nothing else, get this! Jesus has authority to forgive sins because He is the Son of God. 5

27 A Walk Through the Bible 6.4 Let s learn it! 1. According to James, what is a definition of sin? 2. List five bad consequences for sin. A. B. C. D. E. 3. What physical problem did the man have that his friends wanted Jesus to fix? 4. What problem did Jesus solve first? 5. What sin did the leaders think Jesus committed? 6. What unusual things did the sinful woman do in Simon s house? 7. What did Jesus say to the sinful woman? 8. Who has authority to forgive sins? 6

28 A Walk Through the Bible 6.4 For deeper thought... Write a list of things that are sins. Let s discuss them. Think about some of the sins we ve just talked about. How can these sins hurt others? Be specific. What is repentance? How can you show repentance? 7

29 A Walk Through the Bible 6.4 How were sins forgiven in the Old Testament? How are they forgiven today? What changed? Write your memory verse here: What does this verse mean to you? 8

30 A Walk Through the Bible 6.5 YOU ARE HERE S D S BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY Jesus heals the sick Last week, we learned that Jesus has the authority to forgive sins. This is one of the reasons why we know that He is the Son of God. Today, we ll learn another reason why we know that He is the Son of God: He healed the sick. Today s lesson comes from Mark 3, 8; Luke 5, 8, 17; and John 9. A word about healing Today, there are people who claim that they heal people miraculously in Jesus name. Sometimes you may see them on television. These people do not heal the way Jesus did. Jesus healed people from obvious illnesses, like blindness, paralysis, and deafness. Each of His healings were immediate and complete with one exception, which we ll discuss. The healings that are done today are usually of illnesses that cannot be seen, like cancer or back pain. Usually the healers will tell the person he has to believe, and that if he does not believe, he won t be healed. Jesus did not heal that way. Jesus had true power from God to heal people of terrible illnesses. Healing from paralysis We read last week of Jesus healing a paralyzed man. He healed other paralyzed or otherwise crippled people, too. In Mark 3, when Jesus was in the synagogue, a man was there who had a withered hand. Jesus told the man to stretch out his hand, and when he did so, the man s hand was completely healed! 1

31 A Walk Through the Bible 6.5 Healing blind people Jesus healed a number of blind people. In Bible times, blind people relied completely on people to give them money. The government didn t help them, and if no one gave them money that day, they didn t eat. Jesus met one of these men. Jesus spat on the ground and made mud from the dirt and His saliva. He put the mud on the eyes of the blind man and told him to wash in the pool of Siloam. When the man returned, he was able to see! People saw him and recognized him as the blind beggar. They wanted to know how he was healed of his blindness. He told the story over and over again. People asked who healed him, but he didn t know who it was. Then they brought him to the Pharisees, who questioned him. They were upset because he had been healed on the Sabbath. Remember, on the Sabbath day it was against the Jewish law to do any work. They wanted to know who had done this work of healing so they could punish the person! Isn t this incredible? Instead of rejoicing that this man could now see, they wanted to punish the one who made it possible! They continued asking the former beggar about the man who healed him. They didn t like it that he thought the man was a prophet, because men from God would not work on the Sabbath, so they asked his parents. The parents were afraid of the Pharisees, so they told him to ask their son. They turned back to the healed man and wanted him to admit that the man who healed him was a sinner. The man responded, Whether he is a sinner I do not know. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see (John 9:25 ESV). After more arguing, they threw the man out. Jesus found the man and asked if he believed in Him. The man did not know who Jesus was until He told him; then he worshiped Jesus. 2

32 A Walk Through the Bible 6.5 The partial healing There was one time when a healing was, at first, incomplete. In Mark 8:22-26, people brought a blind man to Jesus for healing. Jesus led him out of the village and spit on his eyes and laid His hands on him. Jesus asked him, Do you see anything? (Mark 8:23b ESV). The man answered, I see men, but they look like trees, walking (Mark 8:24 ESV). Jesus laid His hands on his eyes again, and this time when the man opened them, he could see clearly. An incurable, bad disease Leprosy was a terrible disease with no cure. It was contagious, and people were terribly afraid of it. People who had leprosy were not permitted to be around anyone who did not have the disease, and if they had to come into town, they were required to cover their mouths, so they wouldn t accidently spit on anyone, and shout out, Unclean! Unclean! so people could avoid them. Jesus healed a number of people with leprosy. Many of these people had not been touched by another person in years, but Jesus was not afraid to touch them. One time, which we read about in Luke 17:11-19, Jesus healed ten lepers, all at the same time. He told them to go and show themselves to the priests. As they were leaving, they were healed. Only one of the men came back and praised God, falling at Jesus feet and thanking Him. Twelve years of suffering In Luke 8:40-48, Jesus was on His way to heal the 12- year-old daughter of Jairus. He was walking through a crowd. One woman in the crowd had been ill for 12 years; she had bled constantly all that time. She had spent lots of money going to doctors who couldn t cure her. She came up behind Jesus and touched His clothes. Immediately, Jesus asked who touched Him; He said He felt power go out from Him. 3

33 A Walk Through the Bible 6.5 The woman fell down at Jesus feet and told her story. Jesus blessed her and told her to go in peace. Demon possession Back in New Testament times, evil spirits were very active. Demons would take over a person, and the person was powerless to do anything about it. Wow! This is scary! When Jesus died on the cross, He limited the devil s power. It is no longer possible for the devil or his assistants to take over a person against his will. In Luke 8:26-39, we read of Jesus trip to the Gerasene area. When He arrived, a man who was demon-possessed met Him. For a long time he had gone naked and lived around the tombs of dead people. He fell down at Jesus feet and called Him, The Most High God (Luke 8:28 ESV). Jesus commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. Jesus asked his name, and he said, Legion, because many demons lived in him. The demons asked Jesus not to send them back to the abyss. This is interesting! They didn t want to go back where they came from, which must be where the devil is. Even the demons knew the devil was terrible and didn t want to be near him! There was a large herd of pigs on the hillside, and the demons asked Jesus to send them into the pigs. Jesus did as they asked. When the demons entered the pigs, the entire herd rushed down a steep bank into a lake and was drowned. This upset the people who owned the pigs, and they asked Jesus to leave! They didn t seem at all interested that the man who had suffered for so long was now free! This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah: He took our illnesses and bore our diseases (Matthew 8:17 ESV). Okay, but so what? As our memory verse points out, the Son of God would have the power to heal people. Jesus fulfilled that prophecy. This is another proof that Jesus 4

34 A Walk Through the Bible 6.5 really is the Son of God. Only someone with power from God could do all the healing that Jesus did. Today, Jesus has the power to heal our souls. The end of the matter Let s review what we ve studied today. One way we know that Jesus is the Son of God is that He miraculously healed the sick. Jesus healed people of illnesses that were easily visible. Jesus healed crippled people and blind people. Jesus healed people of leprosy, which was at that time an incurable disease. Jesus freed people from demon possession. If you learn nothing else, get this! Jesus had authority from God to heal sick and demon-possessed people! 5

35 A Walk Through the Bible 6.5 Let s learn it! 1. What kinds of illnesses did Jesus heal? 2. Who gave Jesus the power to heal sick people? 3. What was wrong with the hand of a man in a synagogue? 4. Why were Pharisees upset when Jesus healed a blind beggar? 5. What disease, which was then incurable, did Jesus heal? 6. When Jesus healed ten men of this disease, how many came back to thank Him? 7. What was wrong with a woman who d been suffering for 12 years? 8. Where did the demons not want to go when Jesus cast them out? 9. Where did the demons ask to go instead? 10. What happened to them? 6

36 A Walk Through the Bible 6.5 For deeper thought... In your opinion, which of Jesus healings was the most difficult? Which one would be the easiest? Why were some people unhappy about Jesus healings? In what ways do we sometimes have tunnel vision? Write your memory verse here: What does this verse mean to you? 7

37 A Walk Through the Bible 6.6 YOU ARE HERE S D S BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY Jesus performs miracles Last week, we learned that Jesus has the authority from God to heal the sick. This is one of the reasons why we know that He is the Son of God. This morning, we ll talk about miracles. Only God can do miracles. Jesus did a number of miracles, which is further proof that He is God s Son. Today s lesson comes from Matthew 14-15; Mark 4, 6, 8; and John 2, 6. What is a miracle? The word miracle is greatly misused. When people see something that startles them, they often blurt out, It was a miracle! Actually, a miracle is something that is not bound by the laws of nature. For example, if a person is in an auto accident and walks away unhurt, it may be a good example of God s providence, but it is not a miracle. A miracle would be if a person was lifted out of the car by an unseen hand and placed gently on the ground before the accident happened. Jesus very first miracle Jesus and His mother, Mary, went to a wedding at Cana in Galilee. Jesus disciples were there, too. The host of the wedding ran out of wine. Mary told the servants of the host to do whatever Jesus told them to do. Nearby were stone water jars capable of holding gallons of water. Jesus told the servants to fill the jars with water, and they did so. Then He told them to take some out and let their master taste it. 1

38 A Walk Through the Bible 6.6 The servants did as Jesus told them. The master tasted the wine and told the servants to serve it to the guests. He commented that usually the best wine is served at the first, but that this wine was the best and had been saved for the last! Water is a simple formula: two molecules of hydrogen and one molecule of oxygen. Wine has a very complex formula, because it contains sugar and is made from grapes. It contains at least three elements: carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. This is a true miracle! Somehow, Jesus introduced the right amount of carbon and changed the amounts of hydrogen and oxygen to make wine from water! Calming a storm Jesus and His followers often traveled by boat. One evening, they decided to cross over, and they got into the boat. Jesus went to sleep on a cushion. A great windstorm arose, and the waves were sweeping over the boat, and the boat was filling with water. The disciples woke Jesus up and asked Him, Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing? (Mark 4:38b ESV). Jesus said to the wind and sea, Peace! Be still! (Mark 4:39b ESV). Immediately, the wind ceased and everything calmed down. And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, Who then is this, that even wind and sea obey him? (Mark 4:41 ESV). Wouldn t it be wonderful to be able to do this? Windstorms can be very frightening, especially if you re in a small craft like a boat. Jesus didn t have to work at all to calm the storm! Jesus walks on water Another time, Jesus sent His disciples ahead to cross the sea to Bethsaida while He dismissed the crowd. Then, Jesus went to pray alone. When He finished praying, the boat was on the sea, but He was alone on the land. The wind was against the boat, and the apostles were struggling to get across. It was night by this time, and Jesus walked on the sea. 2

39 A Walk Through the Bible 6.6 When the apostles saw Him, they were frightened! They thought He was a ghost! When He saw how scared they were, He told them not to be afraid. Then, He got into the boat with them, and the wind stopped blowing. Feeding a big crowd Twice, Jesus fed a big crowd of people with just a small amount of food. The two stories are very similar, but we ll look at both of them. In the first one, from Mark 6, Jesus apostles had just returned from teaching. They wanted to be alone with Jesus, but a crowd saw them and rushed to be with them. Jesus began teaching the crowd. It was getting very late, and the disciples advised Jesus to send the people to get food. Instead, Jesus told the disciples, You give them something to eat (Mark 6:37 ESV). The disciples were astonished and wondered how they would do that. Jesus asked what food they had. The disciples checked their supply and said that they had five loaves of bread and two fish. Jesus had the crowd to sit down in groups. Then, He blessed the bread and broke the loaves and divided the two fish and gave the food to the disciples to hand out to the people. The disciples gave everyone food, and everyone was satisfied. They even took up 12 baskets of leftovers afterward! There were 5,000 men who ate that small amount of bread and fish! The second time, the crowd was only made up of 4,000 people! Again, Jesus was among the crowd, and He told the disciples that they d been with Him for three days and had nothing to eat. He asked how much bread they had, and they told Him they had seven loaves. They found a few small fish. Again, Jesus prayed and broke up the bread and fish and gave them to the disciples to give to the people. Once again, they picked up plenty of leftovers seven baskets full! A different kind of miracle In the last miracle we ll discuss today, we ll see a different kind of miracle. 3

40 A Walk Through the Bible 6.6 Jesus was on the road and was hungry. He saw a fig tree by the side of the road, but it had nothing but leaves no figs. He said to the tree, May no fruit ever come from you again! Immediately, the fig tree withered. Usually, Jesus miracles are positive. This one is negative He kills a tree with words alone! Only a man with miraculous power from God could do that! Okay, but so what? Jesus performed some very complex miracles that involved changing nature. He did some things that are impossible: calming a storm and walking on water. The only way He could have done these things is by God s authority. Once again, we see that He must be the Son of God! The end of the matter Let s review what we ve studied today. Miracles are events that happen through changing nature. Jesus first miracle was changing water to wine at a wedding in Cana. By speaking to it, Jesus calmed a windstorm that was putting His boat in danger. Jesus walked on water. Twice, Jesus fed crowds of people numbering in the thousands with just a small amount of bread and fish. Jesus cursed a fig tree, and immediately it withered. If you learn nothing else, get this! Jesus has authority to perform miracles because He is the Son of God! 4

41 A Walk Through the Bible 6.6 Let s learn it! 1. Where was the wedding Jesus attended? 2. What was the problem at the wedding? 3. From what substance did Jesus make wine? 4. What problem arose which scared the disciples while Jesus was sleeping? 5. How did Jesus solve the problem? 6. In what amazing way did Jesus cross the sea? 7. What was the reaction of the apostles? 8. There were two times when Jesus fed a large crowd with a small amount of food. List them. A. Number of people: Amount of food: B. Number of people: Amount of food: 9. Why did Jesus curse the fig tree? 10. What happened when He cursed it? 5

42 A Walk Through the Bible 6.6 For deeper thought... What are some things that are described as miracles today? Are they miracles? What is the difference between miracles and God s providence? Which of the miracles we ve studied today seems the most difficult to you? Which one seems easiest? Why? Write your memory verse here: What does this verse mean to you? 6

43 A Walk Through the Bible 6.7 YOU ARE HERE S D S BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY Jesus performs the ultimate miracle! Last week, we learned that Jesus has the authority from God to perform miracles, and that this is yet another way we know that He is the Son of God. In today s lesson, from Mark 5, Luke 7, and John 11, we see that Jesus performed the ultimate miracle: raising someone from the dead. Think about this... We are so familiar with Bible stories that we don t really think about what it means for someone to be raised from the dead. Think about it for a moment: All of us have had family members who have died. None of these people have reappeared and come back to the dinner table to share a meal with us. The reality is that when people die, we will not see them again on this earth. Jesus has power over death Jesus raised several people from the dead. The first one we read of is in Mark 5: A synagogue ruler named Jairus came to Jesus and begged Him to go to his house. He told Jesus that his daughter was at the point of death, and he wanted Jesus to heal her. Jesus was delayed on His way by the woman who had bled for 12 years, about whom we read two weeks ago. While Jesus was still talking to that woman, people came from Jairus house to tell him that his daughter had died. Jesus overheard the news and told Jairus, Do not fear, only believe (Mark 5:36b ESV). 1

44 A Walk Through the Bible 6.7 Jesus, Peter, James, and John went to Jairus house. He went in to where the girl s body was. He said to her, Little girl, I say to you, arise (Mark 5:41b ESV). Immediately she got up. A widow s son The next person we read about who was raised from the dead was the son of a widow. He was her only son. Jesus happened to be nearby when they carried his body out. A crowd was around the widow. Jesus felt sorry for her and told her not to cry. Then He touched the stretcher, and those carrying the body stopped. He told the body, Young man, I say to you, arise (Luke 7:14b ESV). The man sat up and began speaking. Death of a good friend Jesus had a good friend named Lazarus, who lived in Bethany. His sisters, Mary and Martha, notified Jesus that Lazarus was ill. He waited two days, and then He told His disciples that He needed to go to awaken Lazarus. At first, they assumed that Jesus meant that Lazarus was getting much-needed rest, but then Jesus told them plainly that Lazarus had died. When they reached Bethany, they learned that Lazarus had been buried for four days. Mary and Martha s house was filled with people who had come to comfort them. Martha heard that Jesus had arrived, and she went out to talk to Him. She said to Him, Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died (John 11:21 ESV). Jesus assured her that Lazarus would rise again, and Martha agreed that he would be raised in the resurrection on the last day. Then, Jesus said to her, 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. Do you believe this? She said to him, Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world (John 11:25-27 ESV). What a marvelous statement of faith! Mar- tha fully believed in Jesus! Do you? 2

45 A Walk Through the Bible 6.7 More mourning Martha went to get Mary. The visitors saw the women leave, and they followed. They assumed they were going to Lazarus tomb. When Mary saw Jesus, she fell at His feet and said to Him, Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died (John 11:32b ESV). Jesus asked where Lazarus was entombed, and she offered to take Him there. Jesus began crying. Lazarus is raised! When they reached the tomb, which was a cave with a rock in front of it, Jesus told them to remove the stone. Martha reminded Jesus that since Lazarus had been dead for several days, there would be a terrible smell. They moved the stone, and Jesus prayed aloud to God: 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 (John 11:41b-42 ESV). Then He said in a loud voice, Lazarus, come out (John 11:43b ESV). Lazarus came out of the tomb, all bound up in linen strips with his face wrapped in a cloth! Discussion time! We read these stories often and hear sermons about them, and we forget how very unusual this is. As we read at the beginning of the lesson, we lose family members and friends, and we believe we will see them again in Heaven. But, none of us really expects that our loved one will get up out of the grave and walk around and talk to us again. Mary and Martha, Jairus, and the widow had no expectation that the ones they loved most would suddenly arise and be alive again. While on earth, Jesus was able to do what we consider the impossible: He raised the dead and restored them to their loved ones! 3

46 A Walk Through the Bible 6.7 Okay, but so what? Only someone with power from God could raise people from the dead. These people we ve discussed were not just in a deep sleep they were dead. Jesus raised them and gave them back to their family members. Only God s Son could do this! This is yet another way we know that Jesus is God s Son! A very important so what is that since Jesus has authority to raise people from the dead, He will raise us also! The Bible tells us that: But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive (I Corinthians 15:20-22 ESV). Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades (Revelation 1:17b-18 ESV). The end of the matter Let s review what we ve studied today. A synagogue ruler named Jairus asked Jesus to come to his house to heal his daughter. Before Jesus could get there, people arrived to inform Jairus that his daughter had died. Jesus went to Jairus house and raised the dead girl back to life! Jesus met a widow whose only son had died. Jesus raised the man from the dead! Jesus good friend Lazarus was very sick, but He waited before traveling to see him. When Jesus and His disciples arrived, they learned that Lazarus had been buried four days before. Lazarus sisters, Mary and Martha, mourned for their brother. Jesus had them move the stone from the mouth of the tomb. Jesus called for Lazarus to come out, and he did! Only the Son of God can raise the dead! 4

47 A Walk Through the Bible 6.7 If you get nothing else, get this! Jesus is the Son of God because He raises the dead! 5

48 A Walk Through the Bible 6.7 Let s learn it! 1. What was Jairus job? 2. What was Jairus problem? 3. What news did he receive about his daughter? 4. How did Jesus raise her? 5. What was the widow s problem? 6. How did Jesus raise her son? 7. Where did Lazarus live? 8. Who were his sisters? 9. What statement did both the sisters make to Jesus? 10. What was Jesus reaction to their grief? See John 11:35 the shortest verse in the Bible! 11. What did Jesus command when they reached the tomb? 12. What did Lazarus look like when he came out of the tomb? 6

49 A Walk Through the Bible 6.7 For deeper thought... Do the miracles we studied today seem impossible to you? Write your thoughts on Jesus raising the dead. Of all the miracles we ve studied: healings, power over nature, raising the dead, which specific miracle impresses you most and why? Write your memory verse here: What does this verse mean to you? 7

50 A Walk Through the Bible 6.8 YOU ARE HERE S D S BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY Jesus tells a beautiful story Last week, we learned that Jesus had power from God to raise people from the dead. Today, we ll learn a very important lesson that you will want to keep in your heart for the rest of your life. Our lesson comes from Luke 15. A little background... Jesus spent a lot of His time teaching about God to crowds of people. He was speaking to a crowd and was telling them of God s love. To make His lesson clear, He told a story that is often called The Prodigal Son. Here s the set-up... A man had two sons. One day the younger one went to his father and asked him to give him his share of the property. In many ways, this is a deeply offensive request. After people die, their possessions and property are divided up among the survivors. It s very rude to go to an older person and ask for your share of his property! The father, who must have been a kind and easy-going person, gave the young man his half of the inheritance. A few days later, the young man gathered up all his belonging and moved to a far country. It goes downhill from here The young man did as many young men do, especially when they suddenly have a lot of money: he spent it all in reckless living. Before too long, he 1

51 A Walk Through the Bible 6.8 found himself with no money. And, about that time, a severe famine hit. Just a reminder: a famine is when there is no rain for a long time, the ground dries up, and there is no food for people or animals. The young man went to a local pig farmer and was hired to feed the pigs. Wow! He has sunk very low! Remember, pigs are on the list of unclean animals that Jews are not to eat. Many Jews would not even want to be around them or have to touch them. Here, our young Jewish man has to feed them! Rehearsing his speech He was so hungry that he wanted to eat the pods that he was feeding to the pigs! No one offered to give him any food. The longer he worked, the more he thought about his father and the home he left. He remembered that even his father s servants ate good meals. Finally, he came up with a plan. He decided he would go home. He rehearsed what he would say to his father: Father, I have sinned against and heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants (Luke 15:18b-19 ESV). With his speech all ready, he began the journey home. A happy reunion! The son walked along, and while he was still a long way off, his father saw him! He ran to him and hugged his son and kissed him! The young man started reciting his speech, but his father wouldn t even let him finish it! He was so glad to have his son back home safely. The father called to his servants and had them bring the best robe, a ring and some shoes. He told them to prepare a fat calf so they could have a big meal to celebrate the return of his son! He told them, For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found (Luke 15:24 ESV). 2

52 A Walk Through the Bible 6.8 An angry brother The older brother (remember, the man had two sons) was in the field, working. When he finished and got near the house, he heard music and dancing. He asked one of the servants what was going on. The servant explained that his younger brother had returned home and that, to celebrate, his father had prepared the fattened calf to serve as a meal! This made him very angry, and he refused to go in. His father came out to talk with him. He begged him to come in and join the celebration. The older brother said to him, Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet ANGER you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him! (Luke 15:29-30 ESV). This man is really angry and resentful, isn t he? He can t even bring himself to refer to him as my brother he calls him this son of yours! Anger can be a terrible thing. Dad tries to explain The father explained to his son, Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found (Luke 15:31-32 ESV). Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:10 ESV). Discussion time! In many ways, this is a difficult story. It is a very human story of love and jealousy, kindness and anger, foolishness and wisdom. Let s look at each of these characters. The younger son behaved foolishly. He was rude and demanding. Imagine how you would feel if you gave someone you love an expensive gift and later learned that the person just threw it away. That s what this young man did. 3

53 A Walk Through the Bible 6.8 But, he came to his senses and did something very, very difficult: he went back home and apologized. The older son was apparently very responsible. He helped his father with the work on the farm. He was very angry when his younger brother returned home and was welcomed warmly. He thought his brother should be punished for wasting the money his father had given him, and he resented the big welcome-home party. The father loved his sons. He loved his older son, and he loved his younger son. The fact that he saw his son returning from a long distance means that he was out there looking for him, watching for him, hoping that he would come home. He missed his son. He dressed him up and welcomed him home. Then he tried to reason with his older son about how precious relationship is. Okay, but so what? The so what here is that the father in this story represents God. God loves all of His children, and when we make stupid mistakes, or even deliberate bad choices, then come to our senses and want to return to Him, He welcomes us with open arms. He waits for His children to return, and He wants all of His children to rejoice with Him when one returns. Come home! The end of the matter Let s review what we ve studied today. Jesus taught the crowd about God s love, and He told the story of the Prodigal Son to make His point. A man had two sons. The younger son asked for his share of the inheritance. After the father gave the son his half, the young man went far away. The young man spent the money foolishly and ended up poor and hungry during a famine. He took a job feeding pigs, and he was so hungry that he wanted to eat the pigs food. He came to his senses and decided to return home. 4

54 A Walk Through the Bible 6.8 On his way home, he rehearsed the speech he would make to his father. When his father saw his younger son coming, he ran to him and hugged and kissed him. The son began his speech, but his father was so glad to see him that he wouldn t let him finish it. The father gave him good clothes and celebrated with a dinner party. The older son came in from the field and wanted to know what was going on. When he learned that the party was for his younger brother, who had returned home, he became angry. His father tried to reason with him. If you get nothing else, get this! God welcomes those who repent and return to Him! 5

55 A Walk Through the Bible 6.8 Let s learn it! 1. Jesus often taught using stories that are sometimes called what? 2. What did the younger son request from his father? 3. After he received what he requested, what did he do? 4. When he ran out of money, what did he do? 5. What did he want to eat? 6. What was his plan once he came to his senses? 7. What speech did he plan? 8. How did his father receive him? 9. How did they celebrate? 10. What was the older brother s reaction? 11. What did the father do? 6

56 A Walk Through the Bible 6.8 For deeper thought... Put yourself in the position of each of these characters. What are your thoughts if you are the younger son? What are your thoughts if you are the older son? What are your thoughts if you are the father? 7

57 A Walk Through the Bible 6.8 What does the father in today s story tell you about God? Are you more like the younger brother or the older brother? Are you comfortable with this? Write your memory verse here: What does this verse mean to you? 8

58 A Walk Through the Bible 6.9 YOU ARE HERE S D S BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY Jesus tells a pointed story Last week, we learned that Jesus used parables, or stories, to make His lessons clear. In today s lesson, from Luke 10, we ll study a story that Jesus told that had a very important point. A little background... Jewish people in Jesus day were like most of us today we think that our country is the best and our people are the best. Jewish people in Jesus day had a special dislike for Samaritans. Samaritans were Jewish people who had intermarried with non-jewish people called Gentiles. Jewish people didn t like Gentiles either, but they figured they couldn t help it that they were born that way. But, Samaritans voluntarily associated with Gentiles! That was just not right, to the Jews. A lawyer questions Jesus One day, a lawyer decided to test Jesus. He asked Jesus how he could receive eternal life. Instead of answering the lawyer s question, Jesus asked him a question! He asked him, What is written in the Law? How do you read it? (Luke 10:26 ESV). The lawyer answered, You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself (Luke 10:37 ESV). His answers are from Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18. The lawyer knew the Bible and quoted it accurately! 1

59 A Walk Through the Bible 6.9 Jesus told him that he had answered correctly. He told the lawyer that if he followed the Law, he would live. But the lawyer wouldn t let it be. He wanted to justify himself. This nearly always gets us into trouble! Sometimes when we feel insecure, we try to convince people that we have good motives or are somehow superior. The lawyer asked Jesus, And who is my neighbor? (Luke 10:29 ESV). A terrible crime Jesus began telling a story to the lawyer. Jesus often used stories to give lessons. He told him about a man who was traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. Traveling in New Testament times was often dangerous. People traveled mainly by walking, and it would not be unusual for a The man was attacked by robbers who took all his clothes and beat him severely. They left him on the road very badly injured. Reactions by passers-by traveler to be ambushed by robbers hiding along the road. A priest happened to travel down the same road. When he saw the naked, injured man, he edged to the other side of the road and continued walking. He didn t try to help at all. Then, a Levite came down the road. Like the priest, he scooted as far away as possible and continued walking. He refused to help the man. Why are these two people specified? A priest is supposed to help people get closer to God. A Levite is someone who is supposed to know and teach God s word. He helps with the worship service. These are religious professionals. A third traveler Then, a third man traveled down the road. He was a Samaritan. When he saw the naked and injured man, he had compassion. He went to the man and treated his wounds. He bandaged him up and put him on his animal so he 2

60 A Walk Through the Bible 6.9 wouldn t have to walk. He took him to an inn to take care of him. Then he did something that was very kind: he went to the innkeeper and gave him extra money. He told the innkeeper to take care of the injured man. He told the innkeeper that if he used up all the money and needed more that he would repay it when he returned. Now, here s the point! After Jesus finished telling the story, He said to the lawyer, Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers? (Luke 10:36 ESV). The lawyer apparently struggled with his answer. He couldn t make himself say the word Samaritan, so he answered by saying, The one who showed him mercy (Luke 10:37a ESV). Jesus finished up His lesson by telling the lawyer to go and do likewise. Discussion time! Jesus liked to teach lessons that seemed to turn things upside down, like Love your enemies, and The first shall be last and the last first. In this lesson, He teaches the lawyer that sometimes the most religious people refuse to be compassionate and kind, and that those we feel superior to are the ones who actually help others. Okay, but so what? There are a couple of so whats here. One is that we need to admit that often we have prejudices. There are people to whom we feel superior, sometimes based on their race or their appearance. Jesus loves all people, and as His followers, we are to love all people equally as well. Another is that we are to help people who need help. It s easy to avoid helping someone being picked on by a group of students, but is that what Jesus would do? We need to show Christ s love to all people. 3

61 A Walk Through the Bible 6.9 So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith (Galatians 6:10 ESV). The end of the matter Let s review what we ve studied today. Jewish people really disliked Samaritans. A lawyer asked Jesus questions to test Him. Jesus answered the lawyer s questions by telling him a story. A man was robbed, stripped, and beaten while he was going from Jerusalem to Jericho. When a priest passed by and saw the injured man, he refused to help and crowded the other side of the road. When a Levite, another religious professional, passed by and saw the injured man, he also refused to help. When a Samaritan passed by, he felt compassion for the injured man. The Samaritan cleaned and bandaged the man s wounds. The Samaritan put the man on his animal and took him to an inn, where he continued to care for him. The Samaritan needed to leave, but he left money for the innkeeper to continue caring for the injured man. The Samaritan promised to repay the innkeeper if he needed additional money to care for the injured man. The lawyer admitted that the one who had mercy (the Samaritan) was the one who followed the law. If you learn nothing else, get this! Followers of God are compassionate and kind to those in need! 4

62 A Walk Through the Bible 6.9 Let s learn it! 1. Who were the Samaritans? 2. Who decided to test Jesus with questions? 3. How did Jesus answer the question? 4. What scriptures did the lawyer quote? 5. What method did Jesus use to teach the lawyer? 6. What happened to the traveler? 7. Who passed by first? 8. Who passed by second? 9. Who passed by third? 10. What did he do to help the injured man? 11. Where did he take him? 12. What did he do when he needed to leave? 13. Of the three men, who was the neighbor in Jesus story? 5

63 A Walk Through the Bible 6.9 For deeper thought... What groups of people do we sometimes fear or dislike? Why? If you saw a person who needed help, but you dislike that person, what would you do? What are some reasons why the religious professionals refused to help the injured man? Use your imagination and your knowledge of Old Testament scriptures. 6

64 A Walk Through the Bible 6.9 There is a lot of talk about bullying these days. What can you do to help someone who is being bullied without becoming a target? How would your friends react if you helped someone that no one likes? How would you handle this? Write your memory verse here: What does this verse mean to you? 7

65 A Walk Through the Bible 6.10 YOU ARE HERE S D S BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY Nearing the end Last week, we learned a parable about helping others. Jesus ministry lasted about three years. He knew that the reason He came to earth was to be a perfect sacrifice for our sins. As His time on earth got shorter, more time in scripture is spent on these last few days. Jesus knew that His time was short, and in today s lesson, we ll see the beginning of the end of His life on earth. Our lesson comes from Matthew 21, 26; Mark 14; Luke 22; and John 13. Jesus goes to Jerusalem Jesus knew that when He went to Jerusalem, He would be crucified. His time had come, and He began the journey. As Jesus and His apostles got closer to Jerusalem, He sent two of them ahead to get a donkey and her colt. He did this to fulfill scripture: Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey (Zechariah 9:9 ESV). This is an unusual scripture, because kings typically entered a town or village by riding on a horse, not a donkey. The disciples returned with the donkey and colt. They spread their cloaks on them, and Jesus rode them into Jerusalem. Crowds were before and behind Him, shouting, Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest! (Matthew 21:9 ESV). Hosanna is a shout of joy and praise. 1

66 A Walk Through the Bible 6.10 Prepare the Passover! When the Passover feast day arrived, Jesus sent Peter and John to prepare the Passover meal. They asked where they should plan it. He told them that when they enter the city, a man carrying a jar of water would meet them. They were to follow him into the house where he went and to ask the owner where the guest room was, so that they could eat the Passover. Peter and John did as Jesus asked, and everything happened just as He said it would! They went into the upper room that the homeowner showed them and found that the room was furnished, so they prepared the Passover meal. Let s quickly review what is on the Passover menu: The lamb, roasted whole over a fire. Bitter herbs. Bread made without yeast. A little background Before the Passover meal took place, Judas Iscariot had gone to the chief priests who hated Jesus. He asked them what they d give him if he turned Jesus over to them. They paid him 30 pieces of silver, and from that time on, Judas looked for an opportunity to betray Jesus. An unusual act of service As they gathered for the supper, Jesus got up, took off His outer cloak, and tied a towel around His waist. Then He put water in a basin and began to wash the disciples feet and dry them with the towel. What s unusual about this? Washing feet was a particularly nasty job. People s feet are often dirty and sweaty. Back then, they didn t sit in chairs at a table to eat; they lay in a close circle. Dirty feet would be noticed! The foot-washing job was typically performed by a slave or servant, not the guest of honor! Peter tried to argue with Jesus about this. Jesus told him that though he didn t understand now what He was doing, he would understand later. Jesus washed each apostle s feet and then put His cloak back on and joined them at the table. 2

67 A Walk Through the Bible 6.10 He asked them if they understood what He had done. He went on to teach them that they were to follow His example. He said, If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done (John 13:14-15 ESV). The Last Supper Jesus told the disciples that He really wanted to eat with them before He suffered. Then He took a cup of wine, gave thanks, and told them to divide it among themselves. He told them that He would not drink of the fruit of the vine until God s kingdom came. After they finished drinking, Jesus took bread, gave thanks, and broke it and gave it out to the disciples. He told them, This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me (Luke 22:19b ESV). After they ate, Jesus told them that the wine symbolized His blood that would be poured out for them. Two startling announcements Jesus then made two very shocking announcements to the apostles. He told them, as they were eating supper, Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me (Matthew 26:21 ESV). The apostles were very upset to hear this. You remember, they had worked together for three years and trusted each other. They wanted to know who would do that. One after another asked, Is it I, Lord? (Matthew 26:22b ESV). When Judas Iscariot asked Jesus the question, Jesus said that he had admitted it! He dipped some bread and gave it to Judas. Then He told Judas, What you are going to do, do quickly (John 13:27b ESV). Judas quickly got up and left to see the priests and betray His friend. Jesus was not finished. He then announced that Simon Peter would deny Him. Peter was shocked and upset to hear this. He protested, Lord, I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death (Luke 22:33 ESV). 3

68 A Walk Through the Bible 6.10 Jesus told him, I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day, until you deny three times that you know me (Luke 22:34 ESV). Okay, but so what? Jesus knew the end of His life was near. He wanted one last meal with His closest friends and to teach them one more very important lesson: that His followers must serve others. Those who want to follow Jesus must serve others! For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you (John 13:15 ESV). The end of the matter Let s review what we ve studied today. Jesus traveled to Jerusalem to spend His last few days before fulfilling His purpose on earth. Jesus fulfilled scripture by entering Jerusalem on a donkey. Crowds of people praised Jesus as He entered. Peter and John prepared the Passover meal according to Jesus instructions. Judas Iscariot, one of the apostles, went to the chief priests to betray Jesus. The chief priests paid Judas 30 pieces of silver. Jesus washed the feet of His disciples to teach them about service. Jesus served bread and wine to symbolize His body and blood. Jesus announced that one of the apostles would betray Him. Jesus announced that Peter would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed. If you learn nothing else, get this! Followers of Jesus serve others! 4

69 A Walk Through the Bible 6.10 Let s learn it! 1. How long was Jesus ministry on earth? 2. Where did Jesus go to be a sacrifice? 3. How did He enter the town? 4. How did the crowds react? 5. Who did He send to prepare the Passover meal? 6. What is the menu for the Passover meal? 7. Which apostle betrayed Jesus? 8. How much was he paid for doing this? 9. What unusual thing did Jesus do during the supper? 10. Why did He do this? 11. What did He serve to the apostles? 12. What did this represent? 13. What did Jesus predict about Peter? 5

70 A Walk Through the Bible 6.10 For deeper thought... Why did Jesus go to Jerusalem? What does this tell you about His love for sinners? In your opinion, why did Judas Iscariot want to betray Jesus? Jesus knew that Judas would betray Him, yet He washed Judas feet anyway. What do you think Judas was thinking? What do you think Jesus thought? 6

71 A Walk Through the Bible 6.10 How can we, as Jesus followers, serve others? Be specific. List specific things that you individually can do or something that our class can do. Write your memory verse here: What does this verse mean to you? 7

72 A Walk Through the Bible 6.11 YOU ARE HERE S D S BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY Nearing the end Last week, we studied Jesus last supper with His apostles and His example of service as He prepared for the end of His life. Today, we ll learn about how Jesus spent the last few hours of His life as a free person before He was arrested. Our lesson comes from John and Mark 14. Jesus gives final lessons to the apostles After they had eaten and Judas left to betray Jesus, He began giving the apostles some final instructions. He started by encouraging them to believe in God and in Himself. He told them that He was leaving the earth so that He could prepare a place for them, and that there would be plenty of room where He was going! Then Jesus taught a very important lesson. He said: I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me (John 14:6 ESV). This is an important teaching. This means that those who do not believe in Jesus cannot be with the Father. Belief in Jesus is the only way to go to Heaven! Jesus also taught that His followers should talk to God in His name. He said, Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it (John 14:13-14 ESV). We must remember that God hears prayers offered in Jesus name. God answers prayer, but sometimes His answer is No. He knows what is best for us! 1

73 A Walk Through the Bible 6.11 Wonderful promises! Jesus told His apostles that a Helper would come to be with them forever: the Spirit of truth! Jesus promised that the Spirit would live in them. He told them that the Holy Spirit would teach them all things and help them remember what He had said to them. Jesus also promised that He would return to them! He urged them to keep His commandments. He said that He was going to the Father, but for them not to worry. Good advice Jesus warned the apostles that the world would hate them. He told them that the Holy Spirit would help them to give answer when they are brought before His enemies. He again urged them to be faithful and to love one another. Jesus also taught His apostles that they should bear much fruit. When a tree has plenty of fruit, it s good for everyone around it. The work of the Spirit Jesus talked about what the Holy Spirit would do. There is not a lot of teaching in the Bible about Who the Holy Spirit is; that s because His purpose is to direct people to God and Jesus. The Spirit, according to Jesus, has very important work: He convinces the world about sin. He convinces the world about righteousness. He convinces the world about judgment to come. He guided the apostles in all truth. He declared to them the things that were to come. He glorifies Jesus. 2

74 A Walk Through the Bible 6.11 A difficult message Jesus then told them something confusing: A little while, and you will see me no longer; and again a little while, and you will see me (John 16:16 ESV). What Jesus was trying to tell His apostles is that He would die soon, but that He would be raised from the dead, so they would see Him again! This teaching was hard for them to understand. He went on to explain that they would be sad for a time, but then they would rejoice! His prayer Then Jesus began praying. He told God that He had done what He came to do. He taught the people about God. Then He prayed something very beautiful. He prayed for His apostles. He prayed that God would protect them from the evil one (the devil). He went on to pray for you! He said, 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 17:20-21 ESV). This is an important and beautiful prayer. When a person knows that his time on earth is short, he doesn t waste time chatting about the weather. He talks of important things, like his love for his family. It was very important to Jesus, nearing the end of His life on earth, to pray for future believers and for their unity. He loved us enough to do this for us! In the garden ESV). Jesus went with His apostles to the Kidron Valley, where there was a garden the garden of Gethsemane. He asked His disciples to wait while He prayed. He prayed: Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will (Mark 14:36 3

75 A Walk Through the Bible 6.11 We will leave Jesus in the garden and rejoin Him there next week. Okay, but so what? The so what here is that during the end of Jesus life He cared enough about you that He prayed for you and for Christian unity. It s obvious that this was very important to Him, so it must be very important to us as well. The world is very divided religiously. This was not Jesus will. He wanted us to be united in our faith. Also, in His last days, He taught that He is the only way to reach heaven. Jesus came to earth and sacrificed His life because He loves us. 1 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lays down his life for his friends (John 15:13 ESV). The end of the matter Let s review what we ve studied today. Jesus taught the apostles in the last few hours before His arrest. Jesus taught that no one comes to the Father except through me (John 14:6 ESV). Jesus taught that His followers are to pray in His name. Jesus taught that a helper, the Holy Spirit, would come to help the apostles remember His teachings. Jesus taught that He would be gone for a time but that He would return. Jesus taught the work of the Holy Spirit. Jesus prayed that God would protect the apostles from the devil. Jesus prayed for all who believe because of the apostles words that s us! Jesus prayed that His believers would be unified. Jesus prayed for God to remove this cup, but that He would submit to God s will. If you learn nothing else, get this! Jesus loves us and prayed for us! 4

76 A Walk Through the Bible 6.11 Let s learn it! 1. Jesus told His apostles that He was leaving earth for what reason? 2. Jesus taught that there is only one way to the Father. What is it? 3. We are to pray to God through whom? 4. Which helper was going to come? 5. Jesus told the apostles to be and to one another. 6. About what three things will the Holy Spirit convince the world? A. B. C. 7. For what did Jesus pray about His apostles? 8. For what did Jesus pray about us? 9. In which garden did Jesus go to pray His final prayer before His arrest? 5

77 A Walk Through the Bible 6.11 For deeper thought... There are some difficult teachings in today s lesson. One is that Jesus taught that the only way to reach the Father is through Him. Why is this difficult to accept? Did Jesus promise that we d get whatever we pray for if we pray in His name? Explain what He means. Re-read the list on the second page of today s lesson. Does the Holy Spirit do these things today? Which things on this list do you think He does NOT do today? 6

78 A Walk Through the Bible 6.11 Why is the religious world so divided today? List some teachings that cause division in the religious world. How can the religious world be unified? Write your memory verse here: What does this verse mean to you? 7

79 A Walk Through the Bible 6.12 YOU ARE HERE S D S BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY A sad time Last week, we left Jesus in the garden. Jesus knew what was about to happen, and He was likely afraid and upset. He was willing to do what the Father required. In today s lesson, from Matthew 26-27; Mark 15; Luke 23; and John 18-19, we ll look at the last hours of Jesus life and learn how He died. Jesus in the garden Jesus had asked the disciples to wait with Him. After He prayed He returned to the apostles and found them asleep! He woke them and asked them if they could watch with Him for just one hour. He left and prayed again. When He returned, they were asleep! He woke them and said that it was time. The betrayal Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus twelve apostles, came with a large crowd, armed with swords and clubs. Judas had told them that the one they should arrest is the one he would kiss. Judas immediately went to Jesus and said, Greetings, Rabbi! and kissed him. The men seized Jesus. One of the apostles drew a sword and cut off the ear of a servant of the high priest. Jesus told him to put the sword away. He said He could ask His Father for angels to save Him, but that the scriptures needed to be fulfilled. He healed the servant s ear. The apostles ran away. The group took Jesus to the high priest, Caiaphas. The chief priests and counsel were trying to find witnesses against Jesus so they could ask for the death penalty. False witnesses testified, but their testimony did not agree. 1

80 A Walk Through the Bible 6.12 Peter denies Jesus While Jesus was being questioned, Peter was nearby, warming himself by a fire. A servant girl saw him and asked if he was with Jesus. He told her that he did not know Him. A little later, someone else asked if he was with Jesus. Again, Peter denied it. About an hour later, another man accused Peter of being with Jesus. Peter answered, Man, I do not know what you are talking about (Luke 22:60a ESV). The pain begins While Peter was still saying those words, a rooster crowed, and Jesus turned and looked at Peter. Peter remembered that Jesus had said that Peter would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed. Peter left and began crying. The guards holding Jesus made fun of Him and hit Him. They blindfolded Him and hit Him, asking Him to prophesy about who had hit Him. One guard wove a crown of thorns and put it on Jesus head. They spat on Him. Jesus before Pilate The group took Jesus to the governor, named Pilate. They told Pilate the accusations against Jesus: He opposes paying taxes to Caesar. He claims to be a king. Blasphemy. These were dangerous charges. The first two sound like opposing the government, and the government takes that very seriously. Blasphemy is talking about God without respect. Pilate said that he found no reason to charge Jesus. The crowd insisted and said that He had started trouble in Galilee. When he heard this, Pilate sent Jesus to Herod, thinking that this case would be in Herod s territory. 2

81 A Walk Through the Bible 6.12 When Jesus was before Herod, Herod asked Him questions and hoped that Jesus would perform a miracle. Instead, Jesus refused to answer his questions. Herod and his soldiers made fun of Jesus and sent Him back to Pilate. This fulfills Isaiah 53:7: He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is Before Pilate (again) led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth (ESV). Pilate wanted nothing to do with this case. He found no reason to charge Jesus with a crime. Also, while he was sitting on the judge s chair, Pilate s wife sent him a message: Have nothing to do with that righteous man, for I have suffered much because of him today in a dream (Matthew 27:19b ESV). Pilate learned that Jesus claimed to be the Son of God. This scared him, and he asked Jesus about it. Again, Jesus refused to answer. Pilate told Jesus, You will not speak to me? Do you not know that I have authority to release you and authority to crucify you? (John 19:10 ESV). Jesus answer upset Pilate even more. Jesus pointed out that Pilate s power came from above. Pilate really wanted to set Jesus free, but the crowd was demanding that Jesus be killed. He had an idea. A tradition had started that, at Passover, one criminal would be set free. Pilate picked the absolute worst criminal: a man named Barabbas. He told the crowd that they had a choice. They could set free Jesus or Barabbas. Surely, they didn t want Barabbas freed! Pilate was really in a bind. He knew that Jesus was innocent, and he knew that the crowd wanted Jesus dead. It takes great courage to be a good leader. Pilate was not a good leader. Washing his hands The crowd answered Pilate. Release Barabbas! He tried to reason with them, but they were insistent. Pilate took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. He told them, I am innocent of this man s blood; see to it yourselves (Matthew 27:24 ESV). The crowd s response has a double meaning: 3

82 A Walk Through the Bible 6.12 And all the people answered, His blood be on us and on our children! (Matthew 27:25 ESV). What s the double meaning? The only way to be saved is to have Jesus blood applied to us! We do this when we are baptized for the forgiveness of our sins. Let s review some rules here Back then, as now, there were rules for criminal trials. Let s look at them and consider how Jesus trial compares with the rules: In capital cases (where the person will be put to death), the trial must be held during the day and not on the eve of a Sabbath (Friday) or a festival day. In capital cases, all may argue in favor of finding the person innocent, but not all may argue in favor of finding the person guilty. Someone accused of blasphemy is innocent unless he pronounces the blasphemy himself. How does Jesus trial compare? Jesus trial was at night before the Passover (John 18:28). No one argued in favor of Jesus innocence (Matthew 26:66). Jesus never committed blasphemy, although He was accused of it (Mark 15:2). On the way Pilate consented to having Jesus crucified. He released Barabbas and had Jesus whipped. They forced Jesus to carry the cross on which He would be crucified. When a person was crucified, he would often be walked through the entire town while carrying his cross, so that all the people would see what would happen to the person who is convicted of a crime. As they walked, they met a man named Simon, and they made him carry Jesus cross. They arrived at a place called Golgotha, where the soldiers offered Jesus wine mixed with gall. After Jesus tasted it, He refused to drink it. 4

83 A Walk Through the Bible 6.12 This sounds a bit odd to us. Scholars say that wine mixed with gall may have been used as a painkiller. Why do you think Jesus refused to drink it? Crucified Then they crucified Him, nailing Him to the cross. Two other men were crucified at the same time. One was on His right, the other on His left. Both of them were robbers. This is another fulfillment of prophecy: Isaiah 53:9a says, And they made his grave with the wicked (ESV). Over Jesus head, they wrote the charge against Him: This is Jesus, the King of the Jews (Matthew 27:37b ESV). Then the soldiers divided up His clothes by casting lots. Jesus was crucified at about 9:00 a.m. While He was hanging from the cross, passers-by and religious leaders made fun of Him. Forgiveness One of the robbers made fun of Jesus also, saying, Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us! (Luke 23:39 ESV). The other robber said that Jesus had done nothing wrong, but that they were receiving justice for their crimes. Then he asked Jesus to remember him when He came into His kingdom. Jesus told him, Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise (Luke 23:43b ESV). Sayings from the cross While Jesus was on the cross, the Bible tells us that He said seven things. We have just read one of them. Here are the others: Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do (Luke 23:34). Father, into your hands I commit my spirit! (Luke 23:46). Woman, behold your son; behold, your mother (John 19:26b-27a, spoken to Mary and then to John). I thirst (John 19:28b). It is finished (John 19:30). Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani? (Matthew 27:46; this means, My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? ) 5

84 A Walk Through the Bible 6.12 Why did Jesus feel forsaken or abandoned by God? II Corinthians 5:21 tells us that he made him to be sin who knew no sin (ESV). Remember that sin separates man from God (Isaiah 59:2). It is finished The Bible says that from noon until 3:00 p.m., the sun was blocked and everything was dark. After Jesus was given some wine vinegar to drink, He said, It is finished (John 19:30 ESV). Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, Father, into your hands I commit my spirit! And having said this he breathed his last (Luke 23:46 ESV). When Jesus died, several things happened: A Roman centurion declared, Truly this man was the Son of God! (Mark 15:39b ESV). The heavy curtain in the Temple, which separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, was torn in two from top to bottom. There was a huge earthquake and rocks split. Many righteous people were raised from the dead. Just to make sure... The crucifixion took place on a Friday. Since the next day was the Sabbath a special one the Jews asked Pilate to have the men s legs broken and the bodies removed. When a person is crucified, he smothers to death. The only way to breathe is to constantly raise and lower oneself by standing on the nail holding the legs to the cross. If a person s legs are broken, he can no longer raise himself up and can t breathe. The soldiers broke the legs of both robbers. When they came to Jesus, they saw that He was already dead. Just to be sure, a soldier pierced Jesus side with a spear. A mixture of water and blood came forth. 6

85 A Walk Through the Bible 6.12 Here s yet another prophecy fulfilled: Isaiah 53:5a says: But he was wounded for our transgressions (ESV). Zechariah 12:10b says,...when they look on me, on him whom they have pierced (ESV). Okay, but so what? This is a very important so what. Jesus died on the cross for your sins. He died willingly as a sacrifice, so we would not have to die for our own sins. In future lessons, we ll learn how we can make sure that our sins are covered by His blood. The end of the matter Let s review what we ve studied today. Jesus prayed in the garden while His apostles slept. Judas Iscariot betrayed Him with a kiss. Jesus was arrested and taken to the High Priest, Caiaphas. Peter denied Jesus three times before the rooster crowed, just as Jesus had predicted. Jesus was beaten and spat upon. Jesus was taken to Pilate, who sent Him to Herod. Herod sent Jesus back to Pilate after Jesus refused to answer. Pilate s wife told him to have nothing to do with Jesus. Pilate did not want to convict Jesus but was pressured by the crowd. Pilate offered to release either Barabbas or Jesus, and the crowd chose Barabbas. Jesus trial was illegal. Pilate had Jesus whipped, and then He carried His cross through the town until Simon was made to carry it. Jesus was crucified between two thieves, which fulfills prophecy. Jesus gave up His life for our sins. When He died, soldiers pierced His side; blood and water came out. If you learn nothing else, get this! Jesus willingly gave up His life for our sins! 7

86 A Walk Through the Bible 6.12 Let s learn it! 1. How did Judas signal the guards? 2. How did an apostle try to defend Jesus? 3. To whom was Jesus taken after He was arrested? 4. What two things happened after Peter denied Jesus the third time? 5. What were the three accusations about Jesus? A. B. C. 6. To whom did Pilate send Jesus? 7. Who advised Pilate to have nothing to do with Jesus? 8. Who did Pilate offer to release? 9. What did Pilate have done to Jesus before His crucifixion? 10. Who was crucified with Jesus? 11. What did the soldiers do to make sure Jesus was dead? 8

87 A Walk Through the Bible 6.12 For deeper thought... In your opinion, what would have been the most difficult thing for Jesus to deal with in His last several hours? What does it mean that the curtain in the Temple was torn from top to bottom? Write your memory verse here: What does this verse mean to you? 9

88 A Walk Through the Bible 6.13 YOU ARE HERE S D S BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY Jesus is buried Last week, we learned about Jesus trial, mistreatment, crucifixion, and death. Today, we ll talk about His burial and resurrection! Today s lesson comes from Matthew 27-28; Mark 16; Luke 24; and John A rich man, who was also a secret follower of Jesus, went to Pilate to ask permission to take and bury Jesus body. His name was Joseph of Arimathea. He and Nicodemus took Jesus and wrapped His body in strips of linen with spices. The women watched. Joseph placed the body in a new tomb that he had just bought it had never been used. He rolled a large stone over the mouth of the tomb. Yet another Old Testament prophecy is fulfilled! Isaiah 53:9a says, And they made his grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death (ESV). Set a guard! On Saturday, the chief priests and Pharisees went to Pilate and told him that Jesus had said He would rise from the dead on the third day. They suggested that he place guards to make sure that no one could steal the body and then spread the rumor that Jesus was raised from the dead. Pilate agreed. He placed a guard and put a seal on the tomb. The typical way to do this is to put straps of leather in the form of an X across the front of the rock, and then to put wax on each strap, holding it to the tomb. Pilate s seal would be imprinted in the wax. It would be easy to see if anyone had broken in to the tomb. 1

89 A Walk Through the Bible 6.13 But what about Judas? In the meantime, Judas was very sorry for what he had done. He had accepted money for betraying Jesus, and he went back to the chief priests and elders who had paid him. He returned the 30 pieces of silver they had given him, saying, I have sinned by betraying innocent blood (Matthew 27:4a ESV). The religious leaders refused his money and told him that it was his own responsibility. Judas threw the money into the Temple and left. Then he went and hanged himself. The chief priests were unsure about what to do with the money. Finally, they decided that since it was blood money, it couldn t be put back into the Temple treasury. So, they used it to buy a potter s field as a burial place for foreigners. This episode is another powerful example of an Old Testament prophecy fulfilled: Zechariah 11:13 says, Then the LORD said to me, Throw it to the potter the lordly price at which I was priced by them. So I took the thirty pieces of silver and threw them into the house of the LORD, to the potter (ESV). He s gone! The apostles and the women who had followed Jesus rested on the Sabbath, as the law commanded. Early on Sunday morning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to Jesus tomb to properly prepare His body. They were astonished at what they found! An angel of the Lord had rolled back the stone. The guards were terrified. The angel told the women that Jesus was not there. And he said to them, Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him (Mark 16:6 ESV). He told them to tell the apostles the good news! He said that Jesus would 2

90 A Walk Through the Bible 6.13 go ahead of them to Galilee. Are you sure? The women reported the news to the apostles. They did not believe the women; it sounded so strange to them. Peter and John ran to the tomb. They looked in and saw the strips of linen and the burial cloth that had been wrapped on Jesus head. It was rolled up by itself. The men were very confused. They still did not understand that Jesus had risen! We ve heard this message so many times that we don t understand how startling this was to them! They never expected to find an empty tomb! An evening appearance That evening, the apostles were gathered with the doors locked. Jesus came in and showed them His hands and side! Then He breathed on His apostles to give them the Holy Spirit. The apostle Thomas was not with them when this happened. When they told him about Jesus meeting with them, he said, Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe (John 20:25b ESV). Okay, NOW do you believe? The next week, again they were gathered with the door locked, and this time Thomas was there. Jesus once again appeared. He told Thomas to put his finger in His hands and put his hand in Jesus side. Thomas responded, My Lord and my God! (John 20:28 ESV). Meanwhile... The guards were in trouble. They went to the chief priests and told them that Jesus was gone. The chief priests met with others and came up with a plan: They gave the soldiers a large amount of money. The guards were to say that the disciples came while we were asleep and stole the body. If the officials heard, the chief priests would protect the guards. 3

91 A Walk Through the Bible 6.13 The penalty for a guard sleeping on duty was very severe: it could be death, it could be setting the guard s clothing on fire, it could be public humiliation. This was not a light matter! The story was told and repeated, and it was widely believed even today! A rather strange breakfast One day, the apostles were fishing. They had fished all night, and it was early morning, and they had caught nothing. Jesus stood on the shore and called to them. He asked what they had caught. They didn t realize that it was Jesus. Jesus questions Peter They told Him they had no fish. He told them to cast their nets on the other side. When they did, the haul was huge! They caught 153 fish. Then John recognized Jesus. As soon as he said, It is the Lord! Peter swam off toward the shore. They brought in the fish, and Jesus had a fire of coals ready, with fish and bread. He told them to eat breakfast with Him. When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these? He said to him, Yes, Lord; you know that I love you. He said to him, Feed my lambs. He said to him a second time, Simon, son of John, do you love me? He said to him, Yes, Lord; you know that I love you. He said to him, Tend my sheep. He said to him the third time, Simon, son of John, do you love me? Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, Do you love me? and he said to him, Lord, you know everything; you know that I love 4