A tale of three cities
|
|
- Ronald Hubbard
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 A tale of three cities A few verses give a quick summary of the story of the tale of three cities. Luke 1:26[KJV] And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth. Luke 2:4[KJV] And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem. Luke 2:22[KJV] And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought Him (i.e. Jesus) to Jerusalem, to present Him to the Lord. Matthew 21:10[KJV] Jerusalem, the capital, was obviously a city and, when Jesus made His last visit there, scripture records: And when He was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this? Were they all cities? Jerusalem today has a population of over 700,000, Bethlehem has about 22,000 people and Nazareth about 65,000. Apart from Jerusalem, would we call them cities today, and what about 2,000 years ago, when populations were much smaller? It is difficult to find census figures or population estimates from the 1 st century AD, although a census was the cause of all the journeying for Joseph and Mary. One estimate for Nazareth in the time of Christ says the population was 1,600-2,000 people but another scholarly one puts it at a maximum of about 480. For Bethlehem, William Barclay comments that the population was so small that the slaughter of the innocents by Herod would only have involved about 25 children. No wonder this is not found in the historical records as it is probably only a minor atrocity compared to others perpetrated by Herod in preserving his throne. As the 25 were boys, and assuming there would be a similar number of girls born in the same period (i.e. 50 children aged 0-2), there would be about 25 births a year, so probably 25 families were directly affected by Herod s action. If we assume there would be 7 people in an average family of the day (2 parents, 4 children and 1 old person), it gives a total of 175. If we add a further 125 people (for other families and individuals, including extra old people), we have a possible total of 300. At around 500 (possibly 2,000) for Nazareth and 300 for Bethlehem, the term city doesn t seem to fit either place. However, it is easy to elevate the rank of a settlement depending on how important you think it is and these places were important, and still are, to Christians.The Greek word translated as city in the verses first quoted above is the same for all polis - and polis means a city or a town, usually with walls. Perhaps all three of these settlements did have walls for protection.
2 When John refers to Bethlehem (John 7:42), he uses the word kome (ko-may) which can mean a hamlet, town, or village. Even if we turn to the Old Testament we don t get much help. In 1 Samuel 20:6, it says that David could run to Bethlehem his city. Here the Hebrew word is awyar and, though this can be translated as city, it also indicates simply a place guarded by a watch or watchtower and, in the widest sense, a mere encampment or a place where people dwell on a permanent basis. Modern translations take into account the small size of Bethlehem and Nazareth and call them either towns (as in NEB, GNB, NIV) or villages (as in LB), or can t make up their mind (The Message has both town and village for Nazareth). Writing in 5 th century AD, Jerome said Nazareth was a mere village. How do we picture them? We have mental images of Jerusalem from pictures on the TV or in Bible illustrations, and of Bethlehem from Christmas cards (with little room on them for more than a few houses) or from carols, e.g. O little town of Bethlehem. But we don t really have any images of Nazareth. It seems to be left out, with few pictures or illustrations readily available. Where are they? Nazareth The name is possibly derived from the Aramaic naserat meaning watch tower (so does it qualify as a city?), or from the Hebrew neser meaning shoot (as Eusebius and Jerome suggest). It lies in a hollow in the limestone hills of Southern Galilee, overlooking the Plain of Esdraelon. It was a place to pass through, or probably pass by why go up the hill to it when you could just continue along the plain? It has been described as Hicksville or Little Snoring in the Wolds, but William Barclay says it wasn t such a quiet little backwater. He makes interesting comments on this place that others would see almost as the back of beyond. Barclay says, the ends of the earth passed the foot of the hilltop. This was because important trade routes went along the plain. One was the road from Damascus to Egypt the Way of the South or the Road of the Sea - possibly the route followed by Joseph and Mary returning with the infant Jesus after Herod s death. Another major route was that from Acre and Ptolemais on the coast going eastwards either north round the Sea of Galilee to Decapolis or south of the Sea of Galilee to cross the Jordan fords to Gilead and onwards. So, as Barclay says, from the hills half the world was at your door. Not only did people of many nationalities pass close to Nazareth but from the hills around Nazareth, rising to 500m/1500ft, there were great views. To the west, there was
3 Mount Carmel and the Mediterranean, only 30 miles away, and recalling Elijah s challenge to the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:17-39). To the east, Mount Tabor could be seen, where Barak mustered the army to fight Sisera, (Judges 4:11-16) and identified now by some as the Mount of Transfiguration. In the distance to the north Mount Hermon would be visible as it would be snow-capped for much of the year. For some, it is the preferred location for the Mount of Transfiguration as it is near to Caesarea Philippi (Mark 8:27; 9:2). Just to the south was the Plain of Esdraelon, also called the Plain of Megiddo or Jezreel, the strategic valley where King Ahab had stables for 492 horses; where King Josiah was defeated at Megiddo (2 Chronicles 35) and the declared site of Armageddon the final battle. Looking south across the plain, you could see Mount Gilboa, where King Saul was defeated by the Philistines. It could be that, on the whole, Nazareth was a quiet place for a boy to grow up in, and Jesus spent practically all His childhood and early manhood there - some 30 years. But, for such a child, there was this nearby influence of those places of religious and historical significance for His nation and the visions of a wider world beyond. It was a place sufficiently apart from the rest of Palestine to give it a certain independent outlook, as had the rest of Galilee. In many ways Nazareth was a typical little Galilean settlement with a few fields around it, nestling in the hills, and a fairly insignificant place. There were bigger places on the coast to the west or the lake shore 15 miles away to the east, with Sepphoris, perhaps the major Roman town of the area, a little to the north. But God does not ignore the insignificant, and it was to this place that the angel Gabriel came with good but startling news for a young girl, Don t be afraid Mary. God has been gracious to you. You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and you will name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High God. Luke 1:30-32[GNB] Bethlehem: There are 2 places named Bethlehem in Palestine. One is only about 7 miles/11kms from Nazareth in the territory of Zebulon and the other is in Judea. It is the Judaean Bethlehem which is the one that was the city of David, so-called because it was David s home town. Micah calls it Bethlehem Ephratha (Micah 5.2) in his prophecy, the prophecy that Herod would eventually take seriously and so order the killing of all the boys in it under 2 years of age (Matthew 2:16-18). This was the Bethlehem which was at least a 5-day walk away from Nazareth, a world away from the folk back home who would normally be around to help a young mother with the birth of her first-born. Bethlehem was another typical small hillside village but here the hills were to be lit with angel-light and shepherds stunned with their sound and the message that the long-promised Messiah, the Saviour, had been born; a village where the local inn was going to be forever famous for not having enough room for a young woman in labour or for the Son of God.
4 If Nazareth was a place to pass by, perhaps Bethlehem was a place to come away from. There is no record that Jesus ever went back to it after the Holy Family fled to Egypt. Bethlehem is only about 6 miles/9kms from Jerusalem. Jerusalem This was the great city, the biggest place in Palestine by far and a place that would amaze all the country people who went up to the Temple for religious celebrations. Situated on the top of a group of hills, a real hill-top fortress, it could be seen from miles away. Jerusalem had been the last piece of the Promised Land to be captured by the Israelites. Known as Jebus and held by the Jebusites, it was David, the great military tactician, who had taken it (2 Samuel 5:6-9) and he made it his capital, the other City of David. It dominated the political and religious life of the country in the time of Jesus. Politically because it was the seat of power of Herod and his court, backed by the Romans, and religiously because the Temple was the centre of Jewish worship - a Temple newly rebuilt by Herod to gain favour with the people, with the religion controlled by the High Priest and the Sanhedrin. This was the place to visit, with pilgrimages to the Temple for the prescribed religious festivals, and it was near enough to Bethlehem for Mary and Joseph to bring Jesus at the time of her purification and to present Him to the Lord (Luke 2:22-38). Did they also bring Him here for circumcision? (Luke 2:21) All these places are associated with hills, for Palestine is a hilly land. Nazareth is on the side of hills. The old settlement was higher up than the modern town and there were steep slopes down which the people of Nazareth, who knew Jesus from boyhood, would have thrown Him when He was rejected in the synagogue (Luke 4:29). Bethlehem is surrounded by hills; hills remembered over all the world in Advent. Jerusalem is on top of hills, including Calvary. The significance of the places Nazareth is a place of no history or tradition. There is no mention of it in the Old Testament or by ancient historians. It is not included by Josephus in his list of 45 cities in Galilee (1 st century AD), nor in the 63 towns in Galilee mentioned in the Talmud. This makes one scholar suggest that Nazareth only came into existence in New Testament times, i.e. after Jesus had died. Some scholars suggest it had a local reputation for good carpentry. It did gain some importance to the Jews when it became one of the places to which members of the priestly courses (the groups who served in the Temple) moved after the last Jewish insurrection (which ended in 135AD). Hadrian destroyed what remained of Jerusalem and built a Roman city, Aelia Capitolina, in its place. The
5 Jews were forbidden to enter it so there was no access to the Temple site and Jewish worship had to be reorganised. Bethlehem has a long history centred on the Davidic line. Its name means the house of bread and from it the Bread of Life would come. [NB there is a recent suggestion that the lehem element of the name comes from Lakhmu, an Assyrian deity. But is this yet another attempt to undermine the Biblical basis of Christianity?] It is where Rachel died and was buried, the wife of Jacob and the mother of Joseph and Benjamin (Genesis 35:19). Naomi originally came from there and she returned to it with Ruth (Ruth 1:2,22). It is where Ruth met and married Boaz and they became the great grandparents of King David (Ruth 4:13-22). In this birthplace of David, the scholar Jerome lived in 4th/5th century AD and completed the Latin translation of the Bible (the Vulgate). Jerusalem has a complicated history since David made it his capital. It is also referred to as Salem, the city of peace, but more often without peace, or Zion, the holy city, where God showed His glory in the shekinah at the dedication of the first Temple and when the Ark of the Covenant was installed as the sign of His presence and protection. It was often the city where God s chosen people were unfaithful and was also the place to which Jesus made His final journey, entering in symbolic style (Palm Sunday). The symbolism of the three places Jerusalem was the place of the rich and the important. It was the place where Jesus was tried and condemned and from which He was taken to be crucified. So it is symbolic of power and prosperity, which all governments seek. Bethlehem, the birthplace of David, the shepherd boy who became king, is symbolic of the shepherd. In looking after his flock, David knew each animal individually, protecting and providing for each of them, and became the example of the ideal king, wanting the best for his subjects. So it was fitting that it was here that the angels came to shepherds to announce the birth of the One who is the Good Shepherd and King of kings, even though the birth was in a stable. Nazareth. Well, it is symbolic of our common life, into which God sent His Son for our salvation, giving up the glories of heaven to take our humanity and become like us. As Paul wrote: Jesus Christ, who, though He was God, did not demand and cling to His rights as God, but laid aside His mighty power and glory, taking the disguise of a slave and becoming like men (Philippians 2:6-7). Known for very little, it was Nazareth that gave Jesus His identification to the people of His day. It could have been Jesus of Bethlehem, linking Him to the royal line of David (Matthew 1:1; Luke 1:32) and identifying His Messiahship (Luke 2:11). It might have been Jesus of Jerusalem, recognising His right to the central place in Jewish leadership, religious and secular. But it was neither, for he was known as Jesus of Nazareth in effect the man from nowhere. Remember the contempt of Nathanael when Philip told him about Jesus Can any good thing come out of Nazareth? (John 1:46). It was as Jesus of Nazareth that the people knew Him, or as a Nazarene (Matthew 2:23). Nazarene was also an early name for Christians. Ananias, the High Priest, accused Paul of being a leader of the party of the Nazarenes (Acts 24:5). Jesus of Nazareth was the title that stirred blind Bartimaeus into activity as Jesus headed through Jericho towards Jerusalem for the last time: When he heard it was
6 Jesus of Nazareth [passing by], he began to shout, Jesus, Son of David! Take pity on me! (Mark 11:47) and it was the title that Pilate ordered to be written on the Cross as the charge for Christ s Crucifixion, Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews (John 19:19). The three cities of the Nativity Nazareth - the place of His conception : the Holy Spirit will come upon you said Gabriel to Mary (Luke 1:35) and the place of His childhood. Bethlehem the place of His incarnation : Emmanuel...God with us Matthew 1:23. Jerusalem the place of His commitment : they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (Luke 2:22) - the place of challenge: beginning with Herod s words to the Magi, Go and search diligently for the young child (Matthew 2:8) and continuing with all the later attempts to entrap Him, Some Pharisees and some members of Herod s party were sent to trap Jesus with questions (Mark 12:13). It was the place where Jesus had to make His own final commitment in His last hours (Matthew 26.39) and face His challenges head on. So we have - Nazareth where the divine design for our salvation was finally put in place; Bethlehem where the divine plan was delivered; Jerusalem where the dedication of Jesus to the divine plan finally led to His death and resurrection, and the fulfilment of God s plan for our redemption. And haven t we the same 3 cities in our Christian lives? a Nazareth where the idea of Christ as Saviour begins to develop ; a Bethlehem - where the infant Redeemer is born in us; a Nazareth - where we grow in the knowledge and love of the Lord as we read and study God s word, day by day and week by week; a Jerusalem - an official place where there is a commitment of us in baptism, or where we commit ourselves to Him through confirmation, adult baptism, or being received into church membership, and a worldly place where we meet the challenges in our Christian living. This Advent, may the tale of three cities make the Christmas story more relevant for us all as we journey to each of them in carols and scripture.
ISRAEL Biblical Journey
ISRAEL Biblical Journey From Jerusalem s Gates To Galilee s Shores 10 DAYS June 11-20 2019 For digital versions of this brochure and Registration form, go to: www.walkthruthebiblelands.org DAY 1/ Tuesday,
More informationBiblical places to visit in Israel and the Holy Land
Biblical places to visit in Israel and the Holy Land Biblical places to visit in Israel and the Holy Land Israel is one of the most revered sites on the planet for its many places of religious and historical
More informationIntroducing Israel. Land of the Bible. 7th - 14th November Eight Days - Selected Highlights
Introducing Israel Land of the Bible 7th - 14th November 2017 Eight Days - Selected Highlights Day 1 - Tuesday 7 November Outward Journey Assemble at London Heathrow airport and check-in for the El AL
More informationBirth of Jesus. The Life of Jesus 3 years that change the world forever Chronology and Harmony
Birth of Jesus The Life of Jesus 3 years that change the world forever Chronology and Harmony Luke 1:26 33 (NIV) 26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth,
More informationMatthew 2:1-12 King James Version December 24, 2017
Matthew 2:1-12 King James Version December 24, 2017 The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series) for Sunday, December 24, 2017, is from Matthew 2:1-12. Questions for Discussion
More informationChristianity. Origins of. Analyze the effect the Roman Emperor Constantine had on the. Describe the challenges faced by early Christians.
Origins of Christianity What we need to know: Describe the origins of Christianity Analyze how Christianity spread. Describe the challenges faced by early Christians. Analyze the effect the Roman Emperor
More informationBIBLE MAP #6 Isaiah 11:1-10: Responsive Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19: Luke 2:1-7
P a g e 1 BIBLE MAP #6 Isaiah 11:1-10: Responsive Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19: Luke 2:1-7 This is the sixth and final week in our message series BIBLE MAP, where our goal has been to make the Bible: Meaningful:
More informationMatthew Chapter 2. Herod the king was known as Herod the Great, and was the son of Antipater, an Edomite. He became king by Roman decree in 43 B.C.
Matthew Chapter 2 Verses 1-2: Beth-lehem of Judea was also called Ephrath. The town is five miles south of Jerusalem. Its name in Hebrew means House of Bread. This Judean city was the birthplace of King
More informationThe Gospel of Matthew Birth & Early Years (2:1-2:23)
Matthew s gospel does not share the account of the actual birth of Jesus. We are informed that the birth took place in Bethlehem, but we are not informed about the census, the inn, the stable, the manger,
More informationMary, the mother of jesus
Mary, the mother of jesus Bible study guide series Christ to the World Ministries P. O. Box 360 Judson, Texas 75660 903-297-0704 903-297-0625 Fax Christ to the world ministries Bible study guide series
More informationMAKE UP PACKET SESSION 4 PROPHECY AND
MAKE UP PACKET SESSION 4 PROPHECY AND THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST December 2017 Student s Name: The Goal of This Session: The purpose of this session is to help the student 1. understand that God always
More informationIntroduction to the gospel of Luke: Luke 1: 1-4. The foretelling of John the Baptist's birth: Luke 1: The angel's visit: Luke 1: 11-20
Read: Luke 1: 1-25 Introduction to the gospel of Luke: Luke 1: 1-4 1. What was Luke's purpose in writing the book of Luke? The foretelling of John the Baptist's birth: Luke 1: 5-11 2. What are two of the
More informationScripture & Prayers. for Advent IV, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Compiled by Lisa Traylor Prayers from the 1979 Book of Common Prayer
& s for Advent IV, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Compiled by Lisa Traylor s from the 1979 Book of Common Advent IV The Story of St. Mary, mother of Jesus In the sixth month of Elizabeth s pregnancy,
More informationNamed: John 1:28. Meaning: House of the ford. The place where Jesus is baptized by John the Baptist at the age of 30.
WHAT PLACE IS THIS? GOSPELS WHAT PLACE IS THIS? GOSPELS WHAT PLACE IS THIS? GOSPELS Named: John 3:23. Meaning: Springs of water. Where John baptizes before being put into prison. Water is plentiful. All
More informationGOD'S PROMISES TO ISRAEL THE CHURCH
GOD'S PROMISES TO ISRAEL AND THE CHURCH PART 2 THE HISTORICAL BOOKS GOD'S PROMISES TO ISRAEL AND THE CHURCH 2 THE HISTORICAL BOOKS It is advisable first to read the Preface and Introduction in Part 1 and
More informationThe Journey to Bethlehem: Joseph December 4, 2016
The Journey to Bethlehem: Joseph December 4, 2016 Matthew 1: 18-24 18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together,
More informationIsrael. 10 DAYS February For digital versions of this brochure and Registration form, go to:
Israel 10 DAYS February 15-24 2019 For digital versions of this brochure and Registration form, go to: www.walkthruthebiblelands.org Day 1 - Fri, February 15 US/ Israel Meet check-in for the flight(s)
More informationValley View Chapel December 14, 2014 I Know WHERE Jesus Was Born Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1-6; Luke 2:1-8. Introduction
1 Valley View Chapel December 14, 2014 I Know WHERE Jesus Was Born Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1-6; Luke 2:1-8 Introduction I came across a provocative billboard sponsored by the American Atheists Association.
More information2014 Hampshire Downs Parish. Holy Land. Pilgrimage CHURCH OF THE HOLY SEPU;CHRE. 10 DAYS OCTOBER HEATHROW DEPARTURE Led by Canon Paul Townsend
2014 Hampshire Downs Parish Holy Land Pilgrimage CHURCH OF THE HOLY SEPU;CHRE 10 DAYS OCTOBER 2014 - HEATHROW DEPARTURE Led by Canon Paul Townsend The Dates 10 DAY PILGRIMAGE Wednesday 15th to Friday 24th
More informationThe Holy Land. Discovering BOUNDLESS 2015 PRE CONGRESS TOUR. Tuesday 16th June - Friday 26th June. 11 day tour. Led by Majors Graham & Dawn Mizon
Departure Discovering The Holy Land Tuesday 16th June - Friday 26th June 11 day tour Led by Majors Graham & Dawn Mizon 2015 BOUNDLESS 2015 PRE CONGRESS TOUR Welcome We warmly welcome you on a tour of the
More information(Matthew 2:1) After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem
Matthew 2:1-12 New International Version December 24, 2017 The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series) for Sunday, December 24, 2017, is from Matthew 2:1-12. Questions for Discussion
More informationCatechism Bible Mega Quiz 2018 Question Bank: Class 1 Jesus Christ - Birth
Catechism Bible Mega Quiz 2018 Question Bank: Class 1 Jesus Christ - Birth CHARACTERS & REFERENCES Jesus Christ Birth Narrative o Mathew Chapters 1 to 2 o Luke: Chapters 1 to 2 Page 2 of 35 MATTHEW & LUKE:
More informationLand. 10 DAYS OCTOBER 2018 Led by Rev. Kevin Ashby
The Holy Land 10 DAYS OCTOBER 2018 Led by Rev. Kevin Ashby London/Jerusalem Departure The Dates 10 Days Monday 8th to Wednesday 17th OCTOBER 2018 The Itinerary With focus on the main Christian sites and
More informationGROW.PRAY.STUDY. Weekly Study Guide
GROW.PRAY.STUDY Weekly Study Guide Unexpected Journey: An Unexpected Announcement December 2, 2018 Scripture: Luke 1:26-38 (Good News Translation) In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy God sent the
More informationTEN days itinerary visit Holy Land
TEN days itinerary visit Holy Land Day 1 July 9 th Depart Atlanta. Meet at Atlanta Airport at 20:00 PM. - Depart Atlanta airport at 22:45 on Turkish Airlines flights number TK 32 & TK 788 to Tel Aviv airport.
More informationJourney to Bethlehem Labyrinth
Journey to Bethlehem Labyrinth This shows positions for 25 stops for Dec 1 st to 25 th. For starting on Advent Sunday, follow the table below. If starting on Advent Sunday, adjust the number of stops to
More informationJESUS BIRTH AND BAPTISM
JESUS BIRTH AND BAPTISM LESSON 10 caring for PEOPLE for PEOPLE matter to God Romans 5:8 We now begin a study of the life of the greatest man who ever lived. Jesus Christ was much more than a man. He was
More informationThe scriptures did NOT say the Messiah would come from the seed of David or the city of David. (Bethlehem-Judah)!
MESSIAH, SON OF JOSEPH In John 7:40-52, we find a division of opinion among those hearing the Messiah speaking. The Priests and Pharisees state that Yahushua cannot be the promised Messiah, because He
More informationAdvent. Daily Bible Study available at thirsty.ifesworld.org
Advent Daily Bible Study available at thirsty.ifesworld.org InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA All Scripture taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011
More informationTour of the Holy Lands - Megiddo
Tour of the Holy Lands - Megiddo Mt Carmel Haifa Megiddo 18 Miles North Caesarea Maritima Tiberias Sepphoris [Zippori] Nazareth Gideon s Spring Mt Tabor Sea of Galilee Beit Shean Gadara SEA Netanya West
More informationSt Mark s and Putnoe Heights Church Partnership Advent Course 2003
St Mark s and Putnoe Heights Church Partnership Advent Course 2003 Seeing the Messiah through the Old Testament 24 November 2003 Sam Cappleman A brief history of time Old Testament The Messiah Christ New
More informationDELIGHTING in the LORD
The one thing I ask of the Lord - the thing I seek most - is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord s perfections and meditating in his temple. Psalm 27:4 DAY
More informationLuke 2:1-52 Birth and Circumcision and Childhood of Jesus Time and occasion at Birth of Jesus. Events surrounding Birth of Jesus
Luke 2:1-52 Birth and Circumcision and Childhood of Jesus Time and occasion at Birth of Jesus 1 And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be
More informationLearning about Jesus earthly life will enrich our understanding of the Incarnation. Section 3: Part 2 The Human Jesus
Learning about Jesus earthly life will enrich our understanding of the Incarnation. Section 3: Part 2 The Human Jesus A. THE NEW TESTAMENT WORLD OF JESUS 1. JESUS MINISTRY TOOK PLACE AT A PARTICULAR TIME
More informationI am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. John 8:12
I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. John 8:12 1 Boxing Day/Tomorrow 9.30 am Service No Night Service I am the light of the world.
More informationI Know My NT Bible Facts & Map Facts!
I Know My NT Bible Facts &! What is Matthew What is Mark What is Luke What is John Nazareth Bethlehem Cana NT Level 1 I Know My NT Bible Facts &! What is Matthew What is Mark What is Luke What is John
More informationPreparing the Way. Part 2 - Elijah and John s Question from Prison
John the Baptist Preparing the Way Part 2 - Elijah and John s Question from Prison In Part One of this series, saw that John the Baptist had a unique calling - to prepare the way for the coming of the
More informationCLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF A CHRISTMAS KIND. Part 2 THE FIRST CHRISTMAS. Randy Broberg December 2010
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF A CHRISTMAS KIND Part 2 THE FIRST CHRISTMAS Randy Broberg December 2010 Our Lord and Savior The Lord My Lord A Savior Luke Luke Luke Horn of Salvation Luke Divinity of Christ Christ
More informationCreation; The World Read Genesis 1: Abraham; Promised Descendents Read Genesis 12:1-7 & 15:1-6
A tree for reflection during Advent Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse. And a branch from his roots will bear fruit. Isaiah 11:1 Creation; The World Read Genesis 1:26-31 The symbol is the
More informationAustin Brethren Church 2018 Israel Tour
Austin Brethren Church 2018 Israel Tour Hosted by: Pastor Linda and Gary Chandler Day 1 Saturday, October 13, 2018 Departure from the U.S Depart US and fly to Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv. International
More informationCreation; The World Read Genesis 1: Abraham; Promised Descendents Read Genesis 12:1-7 & 15:1-6
Daily Reflections for December 1-25 Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse. And a branch from his roots will bear fruit. Isaiah 11:1 Creation; The World Read Genesis 1:26-31 The symbol is the
More informationTHE BIRTH & EARLY LIFE OF JESUS & JOHN THE BAPTIST
THE BIRTH & EARLY LIFE OF JESUS & JOHN THE BAPTIST The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold The Birth of Jesus Foretold Luke 1 5. In the days of King Herod of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, who
More information11-Day Holy Land Faith Journey
11-Day Holy Land Faith Journey DAY 1 Depart for Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) DAY 2 Arrive at Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) W E LCO M E TO I S R A E L You will be greeted by our representative,
More informationMary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30
Text Luke 1:26-31 (NIV) 26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant
More informationThe Christmas Story. Zechariah and Elizabeth. From Luke 1:1-25
The Christmas Story Zechariah and Elizabeth From Luke 1:1-25 In the days when Herod was king of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah. His wife s name was Elizabeth and they were both honorable and
More informationLuke 2:1-7. The birth of Jesus
Luke 2:1-7 The birth of Jesus In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor
More informationBIBLE READING PLAN (6 months) An overview of the Bible s story
BIBLE READING PLAN (6 months) An overview of the Bible s story This Bible reading plan provides readings for 180 days. If you follow it in order, it will take you through the whole Bible, helping you to
More informationThe Glory Of The Lord Israel Tour June 10 th 20 th, Hosted by Pastor Dr. Jesus Caquias
דוא"ל: The Glory Of The Lord Israel Tour June 10 th 20 th, 2019 - Hosted by Pastor Dr. Jesus Caquias Day 1 Depart US and fly to Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv. International flights usually arrive the following
More information10-Day Evangelical Itinerary
10-Day Evangelical Itinerary DAY 1 Depart for Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) DAY 2 Arrive at Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) Welcome dinner OLD JAFFA The ancient seaport from which the Prophet
More informationCommunications. Creative. Sample. Wonder. Leader s Guide. The. An Advent Bible Study in 4 Sessions
The Wordand Wonder the An Advent Bible Study in 4 Sessions Leader s Guide The Wordand the Wonder An Advent Bible Study in 4 Sessions Table Of Contents Introduction... 4 Tips For Using This Study Guide...
More informationDay 1 Sunday, May 12 th. Departure from the U.S. Day 2 Monday, May 13 th. Welcome to Israel
SkyWatchTV Wars of the Gods Tour - May 2019 Hosted by: Sharon and Derek Gilbert Day 1 Sunday, May 12 th Departure from the U.S Depart US and fly to Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv. International flights usually
More informationSkyWatch TV Wars of the Gods Tour Sample itinerary May 2019 Hosted by: Sharon and Derek Gilbert
SkyWatch TV Wars of the Gods Tour Sample itinerary May 2019 Hosted by: Sharon and Derek Gilbert Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Depart US and fly to Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv. International flights usually arrive
More informationHEAD HEART HANDS. LESSON 5 The Word is THE MESSIAH AND SON OF GOD FACILITATOR S. Note
LESSON 5 The Word is THE MESSIAH AND SON OF GOD FACILITATOR S Note MAIN POINT THIS WEEK: Jesus is the promised Messiah and Son of God prophesied in Old Testament (1:36, 41, 49; 3:18; 4:25, 29; 5:25; 7:26,
More informationJoseph and Mary couldn t find a room at the inn, so they slept outdoors in a stable, where Jesus was born.
The Birth of Jesus How Many Inaccuracies Can You Find? Joseph and Mary couldn t find a room at the inn, so they slept outdoors in a stable, where Jesus was born. LUKE 2:4 4 So Joseph also went up from
More informationCHILDREN'S BIBLE READING PLAN (53)
CHILDREN'S BIBLE READING PLAN (53) Sunday Morning Reading: Deuteronomy 28v25-29 Write: Deuteronomy 28v28 Evening Reading: John 6v7-10 Question: How much food did they have to feed the crowd? (v. 9) Monday
More informationBACK TO THE BIBLE. 30 Days To Understanding The Bible
BACK TO THE BIBLE 30 Days To Understanding The Bible PART FOUR There are 4 main divisions in the Gospel Era: 1. Early Life 2. Early Ministry 3. Later Life 4. Death and Resurrection 3 EARLY LIFE: Childhood
More informationPilgrimage to the Holy Land (102) 10 Days / 8 Nights
Pilgrimage to the Holy Land (102) 10 Days / 8 Nights Description: This tour is the same as the Israel 101 tour, plus a full day of touring in Tel Aviv to learn about Israel s largest city and experience
More informationThis is an Article for March 2010 An A.S.K. Doctrinal Report
This is an Article for March 2010 An A.S.K. Doctrinal Report Associates for Scriptural Knowledge P.O. Box 25000, Portland, OR 97298-0990 USA ASK, March 2010 All rights reserved Number 3/10 Telephone: 503
More informationQuestions about Jesus
Name Date Questions about Jesus Use the following questions to help you determine what information about Jesus can be found in the Gospel you were assigned. Add any other information that you think might
More informationBiblical Israel. A Unique Biblical Journey
Biblical Israel Walk about Zion, go around her, count her towers, consider well her ramparts, view her citadels, that you may tell of them to the next generation. Psalm 48:12 A Unique Biblical Journey
More informationCONVERSATIONS Advent: Isaiah. Isaiah 9:1-7 (NIV)
Advent: Isaiah Isaiah 9:1-7 (NIV) 1 Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will
More informationBIBLE PROPHECIES and FULFILLMENTS
BIBLE PROPHECIES and FULFILLMENTS PREFACE Bible Prophecies and Fulfillments started as a series of adult Bible studies covering most of the prophetical scriptures. Now in its present form it has been prepared
More informationExperiencing The Jesus Dynasty A Special Tenth Anniversary Israel Tour. March 4-13, A Guide to the Sites James D. Tabor
Experiencing The Jesus Dynasty A Special Tenth Anniversary Israel Tour March 4-13, 2016 A Guide to the Sites James D. Tabor 2 A Guide to the Sites The following is an annotated guide to the various places
More informationSermon Matthew 2:1-12 January 7, Sermon Title: The Humble Search of the Magi
Sermon Matthew 2:1-12 January 7, 2018 Matthew 2:1-12 HPMF Sermon Title: The Humble Search of the Magi Matthew 2:1-12 In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from
More informationFamily advent idea: Make a Jesse Tree. by Fellowship Community Church fellowshipsj.org
Family advent idea: Make a Jesse Tree by Fellowship Community Church fellowshipsj.org Advent means coming. During the month leading up to Christmas we can anticipate the birth of Jesus by returning to
More informationAs today s story unfolds, four hundred years have passed since Malachi foretold the coming of the day of
Chapter 22: The Birth of the King Key Question: What does the Word became flesh mean? The Word Page 306 310 At the end of our last lesson, Abraham s descendants had returned to the land, but not to a kingdom.
More informationThe Christian Arsenal
LUKE 2:1-53 Today's lesson is so familiar to all of us. We usually have this passage in Sunday School at Christmas. In fact, this is the passage most of us read with our families on Christmas Eve or Christmas
More informationPeninsula Covenant Church Israel Tour Itinerary Pastor Gary Gaddini, host March 19-29, 2019 (sign up form page 3)
Peninsula Covenant Church Israel Tour Itinerary Pastor Gary Gaddini, host March 19-29, 2019 (sign up form page 3) Day 1: Tuesday, March 19 We depart San Francisco International for Tel Aviv, Israel. Transatlantic
More informationThe Nativity Story and Jesus Formative Years
The Nativity Story and Jesus Formative Years PREFACE The following account has been compiled from the three different Gospel stories of Matthew, Luke, and John using the New King James translation of the
More informationIn 1905, Charles Gabriel wrote one of my all time favorite hymns, whose words say:
Jesus the Nazarene Matthew 2:13-23 In 1905, Charles Gabriel wrote one of my all time favorite hymns, whose words say: I stand amazed in the presence, of Jesus the Nazarene; And wonder how He could love
More informationFor more information please see Wendy or
You are cordially invited to join Pastor Roger and Wendy as they tour the Holy Lands in Israel from January 11-18, 2017. You will have the opportunity to walk where Jesus walked, be baptized in the Jordan
More informationWEEKS Luke+ A WEEKLY BIBLE READING PLAN BASED ON THE BOOK OF LUKE. LUKE+ BIBLE READING PLAN
WEEKS 1 12 Luke+ A WEEKLY BIBLE READING PLAN BASED ON THE BOOK OF LUKE. LUKE+ BIBLE READING PLAN 1 2 As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good
More informationSecrets of the Christmas Story in Matthew. William Loader 2017
Secrets of the Christmas Story in Matthew William Loader 2017 1 Stories with Secret Meanings Most people do not know that our Christmas stories are different from other stories about Jesus, what he said
More informationFor maximum impact, use the entire FaithWeaver NOW family in your ministry! FaithWeaver NOW Sunday School
SCOPE & SEQUENCE FAITHWEAVER NOW For maximum impact, use the entire family in your ministry! SPRING 2017 Jesus Teaches His Disciples to Pray Matthew 6:5-13 We pray to God. We can talk to God. We Can Talk
More informationFaithWeaver NOW Sunday School
FAITHWEAVER NOW SCOPE & SEQUENCE For maximum impact, use the entire family in your ministry! WINTER 2017-18 John the Baptist Prepares the Way for Jesus Mark 1:1-8 We prepare our hearts for Jesus. We can
More informationFor maximum impact, use the entire FaithWeaver NOW family in your ministry!
SCOPE & SEQUENCE FAITHWEAVER NOW For maximum impact, use the entire family in your ministry! FALL 2013 David Becomes King 2 Samuel 5:1-5; Psalm 37 We can rely on God. God is reliable. Count on God David
More informationHoly Land Bible Tour Israel October 7-19, 2018
Holy Land Bible Tour Israel October 7-19, 2018 Sunday, October 7 Depart from home city. Monday, October 8 Participants must arrive in Tel Aviv by noon. United Airlines flies out of Newark, NJ at 1:30 p.m.
More informationThe Life of Christ An Overview
Lesson 1 - Introduction Introduction Nearly all of the information available on the life of Christ comes from Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Each book has its own theme and purpose, and therefore uncertainty
More information1 CHRISTMAS DEVOTIONAL SUMMARIZE IT
1 CHRISTMAS DEVOTIONAL The people of Israel had waited a very long time for their Messiah (or A LOOK AHEAD During the month of December there will be about 10 devotionals focusing on the birth of Jesus
More informationNAZARETH, BETHSAIDA, CAPERNAUM
Rev. Troy Lynn Pritt April 26, 2009 Page 1 NAZARETH, BETHSAIDA, CAPERNAUM This past week I received an email announcement that some private foundation was paying for ministers to visit the Holy Land. They
More informationBridge Church Israel Tour
Bridge Church Israel Tour With Dr Brendan Roach 8-20 OCTOBER 2018 TOLL FREE 1300 554 654 MORE INFORMATION www.missiontravel.com.au/bridgechurch2018 The Bridge Church Israel In October 2018 Bridge Church
More informationThe theocracy. THE THEOCRACY Acts 13:22b
The theocracy A discipleship training to equip Christians for works of service, so that the Body of Christ may be built up (Ephesians 4:11-16) 11 QUIET TIME Theme: The period of the kings in Israel Try
More informationThe Holy Land. Patricians 0f The legion of Mary Saint Luke the Evangelist Raleigh, North Carolina
The Holy Land Patricians 0f The legion of Mary Saint Luke the Evangelist Raleigh, North Carolina Apparition to Sister Lucy Our Lady appeared to Lucy as one of the three children in Fatima after which she
More informationJESUS AND HIS CITY. Matthew 21: 1-17
JESUS AND HIS CITY Matthew 21: 1-17 Today is Palm Sunday, the first day of what is usually called Holy Week in which we commemorate the events of the last week of Jesus s ministry before his crucifixion
More informationChrist s Call out of Egypt
1 Christ s Call out of Egypt Jeremiah 31:15 & Hosea 11:1 Introduction: Thus far, we have studied several prophetic passages concerning the birth of Christ. For example, we studied about Christ s birth
More informationTHE BIBLE SOCIETIES/COLLINS
THE BIBLE SOCIETIES/COLLINS Contents Some stories from the gospel iv Where to look when feeling iv Where to look when wondering about v New Testament maps Jerusalem in New Testament times vi Palestine
More informationUnit 2. The King Arrives! Unit Outline. Lesson 1 The King Is Born! 24. Lesson 2 Jesus Relives Israel s Story 26
23 The King Arrives! Unit Outline Lesson 1 The King Is Born! 24 Lesson 2 Jesus Relives Israel s Story 26 Lesson 3 Early Ministry: A Different Kind of Leader 28 Lesson 4 The Ethics of the Kingdom 30 Lesson
More informationMARY'S STORY 4 U PART 1 MARY'S CHRISTMAS STORY 4 U
MARY'S STORY 4 U PART 1 MARY'S CHRISTMAS STORY 4 U INTRODUCTION MARY'S STORY 4 U MARY'S STORY 4 U is a Bible Study in 2 Parts. PART 1 MARY'S CHRISTMAS STORY 4 U, PART 2 MARY'S EASTER STORY 4 U (Full and
More informationSERIES: 43 John MESSAGE: John 1:19-51 SPEAKER: Skip Heitzig SCRIPTURE: John 1:19-51
SERIES: 43 John - 2016 MESSAGE: John 1:19-51 SPEAKER: Skip Heitzig SCRIPTURE: John 1:19-51 MESSAGE SUMMARY What is your view of Jesus? John the Baptist was very aware of who Jesus is: "the Lamb of God
More informationCurrent ( ) Go Teach Syllabus. An overview for users of Series titles, Lesson subjects and Scripture references*
Current (2014 2018) Go Teach Syllabus An overview for users of Series titles, Lesson subjects and Scripture references* *Note: Some lessons for older groups may refer to longer and extra passages BOOK
More informationJune 12-24, Days/ 12 nights
Day 1 Monday, June 12 th : Travel to Amman, Jordan Our mission trip begins today as we fly toward the Holy Land. There are meals and movies in flight, as well as some conversation and sleep. Day 2 Tuesday,
More informationMomentous events took place in each of these cities that forever affected the people and Nation of Israel.
Israel s seven holy cities Beersheba, Hebron and Bethlehem in the south, Bethel, Shechem and Safed in the north and Jerusalem in the center form a menorah that together emanate God s light to the rest
More informationNativity Story Advent Chain
Joyful Catholic Families Nativity Story Advent Chain Advent is not a set number of days. It can be 22 to 28 days long. If Advent is 28 days long, use the first four pages of this chain. If Advent is less
More informationWere you there? FOR LENT A 6 SESSION BIBLE STUDY A 6 SESSION BIBLE STUDY FOR LENT
Were you there? e s v n i t o i a t e ica r C n u ple m m am o S C A 6 SESSION BIBLE STUDY FOR LENT A 6 SESSION BIBLE STUDY FOR LENT table of contents Introduction...........................................4
More informationThe Gospel of Matthew Ministry Begins (4:12 4:25)
A gap of almost one year, labeled by some as the Year of Inauguration occurs between the temptations of Christ identified in Matthew 4:1-11 and Matthew 4:12. Most of this time period is not detailed in
More informationSUGGESTED BIBLE STORIES FOR DIFFERENT NUMBER OF ENCOUNTERS
SUGGESTED BIBLE STORIES FOR DIFFERENT NUMBER OF ENCOUNTERS Jackson Day Storytellers can be limited to the number of stories they can tell by the number of times they meet with their listeners. A storyteller
More informationMonday, October 28, 13. Christianity
Christianity Chapter One Christianity sprang from the teachings and beliefs of Judaism. Major difference between Christianity and Judaism is the coming of a Messiah (Savior) Most Jews believe that Messiah
More informationNote: Where a Scripture text is underlined in the body of this discussion, it is recommended that the reader look up and read that passage.
4 th Sunday of Advent Cycle B Note: Where a Scripture text is underlined in the body of this discussion, it is recommended that the reader look up and read that passage. Introduction Anticipation and preparedness
More informationToday Could be Your Bethlehem Matthew 2:1-12 First Sunday in Advent, December 2, 2018 Dr. Michael Helms
Today Could be Your Bethlehem Matthew 2:1-12 First Sunday in Advent, December 2, 2018 Dr. Michael Helms I have a pastor friend that was adopted into a wonderful family as a baby. His parents never hid
More informationHistory of Jerusalem. (Psalm ) "For the Lord has chosen Zion;he has desired it for his dwelling place."
History of Jerusalem (Psalm 132.13) "For the Lord has chosen Zion;he has desired it for his dwelling place." Location (Psalm 125:2) "As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people,
More information