AFTER denouncing the Pharisees for their self-serving traditions, Jesus leaves with his disciples. Not long before, you may recall, his attempt to get away with them to rest up a bit was interrupted when crowds found them. Now, with his disciples, he departs for the regions of Tyre and Sidon, many miles to the north. This apparently is the only trip Jesus makes with his disciples beyond the borders of Israel.
After finding a house to stay in, Jesus lets it be known that he does not want anyone to learn of their whereabouts. Yet, even in this non-Israelite territory, he cannot escape notice. A Greek woman, born here in Phoenicia of Syria, finds him and begins begging: "Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David. My daughter is badly demonized." Jesus, however, does not say a word in reply.
Eventually, his disciples tell Jesus: "Send her away; because she keeps crying out after us." Explaining his reason for ignoring her, Jesus says: "I was not sent forth to any but to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." However, the woman does not give up. She approaches Jesus and prostrates herself before him. She pleads, "Lord, help me!"
How Jesus' heart must be moved by the woman's earnest appeal! Yet, he again points to his first responsibility, to minister to God's people of Israel. At the same time, apparently to test her faith, he draws on the Jew's prejudiced view of those of other nationalities, arguing: "It is not right to take the bread of the children and throw it to little dogs."
By his compassionate tone of voice and facial expression, Jesus surely reveals his own tender feelings toward non-Jews. He even softens the comparison of Gentiles to dogs by referring to them as "little dogs," or puppies. Rather than take offense, the woman picks up on Jesus' reference to Jewish prejudices and makes the humble observation: "Yes, Lord; but really the little dogs do eat of the crumbs falling from the table of their masters."
Next time: Conclusion of Compassion For The Afflicted
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.10.2009
2.09.2009
Conclusion of What Defiles A Man?
Properly indignant at the Pharisee's wicked twisting of God's Law, Jesus says: " You have made the word of God invalid because of your tradition. You hypocrites, Isaiah aptly prophesied about you, when he said, 'This people honors me with their lips, yet their heart is far removed from me. It is in vain that they keep worshiping me, because they teach commands of men as doctrines.' "
Perhaps the crowd had backed away to allow the pharisees to question Jesus. Now, when the Pharisees have no answer to Jesus' strong censure of them, he calls the crowd near. "Listen to me, " he says, "and get the meaning. There is nothing from outside a man that passes into him that can defile him; but the things that issue forth out of a man are the things that defile a man."
Later,when they enter a house, his disciples ask: "Do you know that the Pharisees stumbled at hearing what you said?" "Every plant that my heavenly Father did not plant will be uprooted," Jesus answers. "Let them be. Blind guides is what they are. If, then, a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit."
Jesus seems surprised when, in behalf of the disciples, Peter asks for clarification regarding what defiles a man. "Are you also yet without understanding?" Jesus responds. "Are you not aware that everything entering into the mouth passes along into the intestines and is discharged into the sewer? However, the things proceeding out of the mouth come out of the heart, and those things defile a man. For example, out of the heart come wicked reasonings, murders, adulteries, fornications, thieveries, false testimonies, blasphemies. These are the things defiling a man; but to take a meal with unwashed hands does not defile a man."
Jesus is not here discouraging normal hygiene. He is not arguing that a person need not wash his hands before preparing food or eating a meal. Rather, Jesus is condemning the hypocrisy of religious leaders who deviously try to circumvent God's righteous laws by insisting on unscriptural traditions. Yes, it is wicked deeds that defile a man, and Jesus shows that these originate in a person's heart. John 7:1; Deuteronomy 16:16; Matthew 15:1-20; Mark 7:1-23; Exodus 20:123; Isaiah 29:13.
Next time: Compassion For The Afflicted
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Perhaps the crowd had backed away to allow the pharisees to question Jesus. Now, when the Pharisees have no answer to Jesus' strong censure of them, he calls the crowd near. "Listen to me, " he says, "and get the meaning. There is nothing from outside a man that passes into him that can defile him; but the things that issue forth out of a man are the things that defile a man."
Later,when they enter a house, his disciples ask: "Do you know that the Pharisees stumbled at hearing what you said?" "Every plant that my heavenly Father did not plant will be uprooted," Jesus answers. "Let them be. Blind guides is what they are. If, then, a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit."
Jesus seems surprised when, in behalf of the disciples, Peter asks for clarification regarding what defiles a man. "Are you also yet without understanding?" Jesus responds. "Are you not aware that everything entering into the mouth passes along into the intestines and is discharged into the sewer? However, the things proceeding out of the mouth come out of the heart, and those things defile a man. For example, out of the heart come wicked reasonings, murders, adulteries, fornications, thieveries, false testimonies, blasphemies. These are the things defiling a man; but to take a meal with unwashed hands does not defile a man."
Jesus is not here discouraging normal hygiene. He is not arguing that a person need not wash his hands before preparing food or eating a meal. Rather, Jesus is condemning the hypocrisy of religious leaders who deviously try to circumvent God's righteous laws by insisting on unscriptural traditions. Yes, it is wicked deeds that defile a man, and Jesus shows that these originate in a person's heart. John 7:1; Deuteronomy 16:16; Matthew 15:1-20; Mark 7:1-23; Exodus 20:123; Isaiah 29:13.
Next time: Compassion For The Afflicted
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.08.2009
What Defiles A Man?
OPPOSITION to Jesus becomes stronger. Not only do many of his disciples leave but Jews in Judea are seeking to kill him, even as they did when he was in Jerusalem during the Passover of 31 C.E.
It is now the Passover of 31 C. E. Likely, in accordance with God's requirement to attend, Jesus goes up to the Passover in Jerusalem. However, he does so cautiously because his life is in danger. Afterward he returns to Galilee.
Jesus is perhaps in Capernaum when Pharisees and scribes from Jerusalem come to him. They are looking for grounds on which to accuse him of religious lawbreaking. "Why is it your disciples overstep the tradition of men of former times?" They inquire. "For example, they do not wash their hands when about to eat a meal." This is not something required by God, yet the Pharisees consider it a serious offense not to perform this traditional ritual, which included washing up to the elbows.
Rather than answer them regarding their accusation, Jesus points to their wicked and willful breaking of God's Law. "Why is it you overstep the commandment of God because of your tradition?" He wants to know. "For example God said, 'Honor your father and your mother;' and, 'Let him that reviles father or mother end up in death.' But you say, 'Whoever says to his father or mother: "Whatever I have by which you might benefit from me is a gift dedicated to God," he must not honor his father at all.' "
Indeed, the Pharisees teach that money, property, or anything dedicated as a gift to God belongs to the temple and cannot be used for some other purpose. Yet, actually, the dedicated gift is kept by the person who dedicated it. IN this way a son, by simply saying that his money or property is "corban" -a gift dedicated to God or to the temple-evades his responsibility to help his aged parents, who may be in desperate straits.
Next time: Conclusion of What Defiles A Man?
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
It is now the Passover of 31 C. E. Likely, in accordance with God's requirement to attend, Jesus goes up to the Passover in Jerusalem. However, he does so cautiously because his life is in danger. Afterward he returns to Galilee.
Jesus is perhaps in Capernaum when Pharisees and scribes from Jerusalem come to him. They are looking for grounds on which to accuse him of religious lawbreaking. "Why is it your disciples overstep the tradition of men of former times?" They inquire. "For example, they do not wash their hands when about to eat a meal." This is not something required by God, yet the Pharisees consider it a serious offense not to perform this traditional ritual, which included washing up to the elbows.
Rather than answer them regarding their accusation, Jesus points to their wicked and willful breaking of God's Law. "Why is it you overstep the commandment of God because of your tradition?" He wants to know. "For example God said, 'Honor your father and your mother;' and, 'Let him that reviles father or mother end up in death.' But you say, 'Whoever says to his father or mother: "Whatever I have by which you might benefit from me is a gift dedicated to God," he must not honor his father at all.' "
Indeed, the Pharisees teach that money, property, or anything dedicated as a gift to God belongs to the temple and cannot be used for some other purpose. Yet, actually, the dedicated gift is kept by the person who dedicated it. IN this way a son, by simply saying that his money or property is "corban" -a gift dedicated to God or to the temple-evades his responsibility to help his aged parents, who may be in desperate straits.
Next time: Conclusion of What Defiles A Man?
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.07.2009
Conclusion of Many Disciples Quit Following Jesus
True, Jesus' teaching would sound most offensive if he were suggesting cannibalism. But, of course, Jesus is not advocating literally eating flesh or drinking blood. He is simply emphasizing that all who receive everlasting life must exercise faith in the sacrifice that he is to make when he offers up his perfect human body and pours out his lifeblood. Yet, even many of his disciples make no attempt to understand his teaching and so object: "This speech is shocking; who can listen to it?"
Knowing that many of his disciples are murmuring, Jesus says: "Does this stumble you? What, therefore, if you should behold the Son of man ascending to where he was before? . . . The sayings that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life. But there are some of you that do not believe."
Jesus continues: "This is why I have said to you, no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father." With that, many of his disciples leave and no longer follow him. So Jesus turns to his 12 apostles and asks: "You do not want to go also, do you?"
Peter responds: "Lord, who shall we go away to? You have sayings of everlasting life; and we have believed and come to know that you are the Holy One of God." What a fine expression of loyalty, even though Peter and the other apostles may not have fully understood Jesus' teaching on this matter!
Although pleased by Peter's response, Jesus observes: "I chose you twelve, did I not? Yet one of you is a slanderer." He is speaking about Judas Iscariot. Possibly at this point Jesus detects in Judas a "beginning," or an outset,of a wrongful course.
Jesus has just disappointed the people by resisting their attempts to make him king, and they may be reasoning, 'How can this be the Messiah if he will not assume the Messiah's rightful position?' This, too, would be a matter of fresh in the people's minds. John 6:51-71; 3:16.
Next time: What Defiles A Man?
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Knowing that many of his disciples are murmuring, Jesus says: "Does this stumble you? What, therefore, if you should behold the Son of man ascending to where he was before? . . . The sayings that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life. But there are some of you that do not believe."
Jesus continues: "This is why I have said to you, no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father." With that, many of his disciples leave and no longer follow him. So Jesus turns to his 12 apostles and asks: "You do not want to go also, do you?"
Peter responds: "Lord, who shall we go away to? You have sayings of everlasting life; and we have believed and come to know that you are the Holy One of God." What a fine expression of loyalty, even though Peter and the other apostles may not have fully understood Jesus' teaching on this matter!
Although pleased by Peter's response, Jesus observes: "I chose you twelve, did I not? Yet one of you is a slanderer." He is speaking about Judas Iscariot. Possibly at this point Jesus detects in Judas a "beginning," or an outset,of a wrongful course.
Jesus has just disappointed the people by resisting their attempts to make him king, and they may be reasoning, 'How can this be the Messiah if he will not assume the Messiah's rightful position?' This, too, would be a matter of fresh in the people's minds. John 6:51-71; 3:16.
Next time: What Defiles A Man?
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.06.2009
Many Disciples Quit Following Jesus
JESUS is teaching in a synagogue in Capernaum concerning his part as the true bread from heaven. His talk is evidently an extension of the discussion that began with the people when they found him on their return from the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee, where they had eaten from the miraculously provided loaves and fishes.
Jesus continues his remarks saying: "The bread that I shall give is my flesh in behalf of the life of the world.: Just two years before in the spring of 30 C.E., Jesus told Nicodemus that God loved the world so much that he provided his Son as a Savior. Thus, Jesus is now showing that anyone of the world of mankind who eats symbolically of his flesh, by exercising faith in the sacrifice he is soon to make, may receive everlasting life.
The people, however, stumble over Jesus' words. "How can this man give us his flesh to eat?" They ask. Jesus wants his listeners to understand that the eating of his flesh would be done in a figurative way. So, to emphasize this, he says something still more objectionable if taken in a literal way.
Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood," Jesus declares, "you have not life in yourselves. He that feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has everlasting life, and I shall resurrect him at the last day; for my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. He that feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood remains in union with me, and I in union with him."
Next time: Conclusion of Many Disciples Quit Following Jesus
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Jesus continues his remarks saying: "The bread that I shall give is my flesh in behalf of the life of the world.: Just two years before in the spring of 30 C.E., Jesus told Nicodemus that God loved the world so much that he provided his Son as a Savior. Thus, Jesus is now showing that anyone of the world of mankind who eats symbolically of his flesh, by exercising faith in the sacrifice he is soon to make, may receive everlasting life.
The people, however, stumble over Jesus' words. "How can this man give us his flesh to eat?" They ask. Jesus wants his listeners to understand that the eating of his flesh would be done in a figurative way. So, to emphasize this, he says something still more objectionable if taken in a literal way.
Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood," Jesus declares, "you have not life in yourselves. He that feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has everlasting life, and I shall resurrect him at the last day; for my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. He that feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood remains in union with me, and I in union with him."
Next time: Conclusion of Many Disciples Quit Following Jesus
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.05.2009
"True Bread From Heaven"
"I am the bread of life," Jesus explains. "He that comes to me will not get hungry at all, and he that exercises faith in me will never get thirsty at all. But I have said to you, you have even seen me and yet you do not believe. Everything the Father gives me will come to me, and the one that comes to me I will by no means drive away; because I have come down from heaven to do, not my will, but the will of him that sent me. This is the will of him that sent me, that I should lose nothing out of all that he has given me but that I should resurrect it at the last day. For this is the will of my Father, that everyone that beholds the Son and exercises faith in him should have everlasting life."
At this the Jews begin murmuring at Jesus because he said, "I am the bread that came down from heaven." They see in him nothing more than a son of human parents and so in the same manner as did the people of Nazareth, they object, saying: "Is this not the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How is it that now he says, 'I have down from heaven'?"
"Stop murmuring among yourselves," Jesus responds. "No man can come to me unless the Father who sent me, draws him; and I will resurrect him in the last day. It is written in the Prophets, 'and they will all be taught by Jehovah.' Everyone that has heard from the Father and has learned comes to me. Not that any man has seen the Father, except he who is from God; this one has seen the Father. Most truly I say to you, He that believes has everlasting life."
Continuing, Jesus repeats: "I am the bread of life. Your forefathers ate the manna in the wilderness and yet died. This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that anyone may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven; if anyone eats of this bread he will live forever." Yes, by exercising faith in Jesus, the one sent forth by God, people can have everlasting life. No manna, or any other bread, can provide that!
The discussion regarding the bread from heaven apparently began shortly after the people found Jesus near Capernaum. But it continues, reaching a climax later while Jesus teaches in a synagogue in Capernaum. John 6:25-51, 59; Psalm 78:24; Isaiah 54:13; Matthew 11:55-57.
Next time: Many Disciples Quit Following Jesus
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
At this the Jews begin murmuring at Jesus because he said, "I am the bread that came down from heaven." They see in him nothing more than a son of human parents and so in the same manner as did the people of Nazareth, they object, saying: "Is this not the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How is it that now he says, 'I have down from heaven'?"
"Stop murmuring among yourselves," Jesus responds. "No man can come to me unless the Father who sent me, draws him; and I will resurrect him in the last day. It is written in the Prophets, 'and they will all be taught by Jehovah.' Everyone that has heard from the Father and has learned comes to me. Not that any man has seen the Father, except he who is from God; this one has seen the Father. Most truly I say to you, He that believes has everlasting life."
Continuing, Jesus repeats: "I am the bread of life. Your forefathers ate the manna in the wilderness and yet died. This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that anyone may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven; if anyone eats of this bread he will live forever." Yes, by exercising faith in Jesus, the one sent forth by God, people can have everlasting life. No manna, or any other bread, can provide that!
The discussion regarding the bread from heaven apparently began shortly after the people found Jesus near Capernaum. But it continues, reaching a climax later while Jesus teaches in a synagogue in Capernaum. John 6:25-51, 59; Psalm 78:24; Isaiah 54:13; Matthew 11:55-57.
Next time: Many Disciples Quit Following Jesus
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.04.2009
"True Bread From Heaven"
THE day before had truly been eventful. Jesus miraculously fed thousands and then escaped the attempt of the people making him king. That night he walked on the stormy Sea of Galilee; rescued Peter, who began to sink when he walked on the storm-tossed water; and calmed the waves to save his disciples from shipwreck.
Now the people whom Jesus had miraculously fed northeast of the Sea of Galilee find him near Capernaum and inquired: "When did you get here?" Rebuking them, Jesus says that they have come looking for him only because they expect to get another free meal. He urges them to work, not for food that perishes, but for food that remains for everlasting life. So the people inquire: "What shall we do to work the works of God?"
Jesus names but one work of the highest value. "This is the work of God," he explains, "that you exercise faith in him whom that One sent forth." The people, however, do not exercise faith in Jesus, despite all the miracles he has performed. Unbelievably, even after all the marvelous things that he has done, they ask: "What, then, are you performing as a sign, in order for us to see it and believe you? What work are you doing? Our forefathers ate the manna in the wilderness, just as it is written, 'He gave them bread from heaven to eat.' "
In response to their request for a sign, Jesus makes clear the Source of the miraculous provisions, saying: "Moses did not give you the bread from heaven, but my Father does give you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world." "Lord," the people say, "always give us this bread."
Next time: Conclusion of "True Bread From Heaven
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Now the people whom Jesus had miraculously fed northeast of the Sea of Galilee find him near Capernaum and inquired: "When did you get here?" Rebuking them, Jesus says that they have come looking for him only because they expect to get another free meal. He urges them to work, not for food that perishes, but for food that remains for everlasting life. So the people inquire: "What shall we do to work the works of God?"
Jesus names but one work of the highest value. "This is the work of God," he explains, "that you exercise faith in him whom that One sent forth." The people, however, do not exercise faith in Jesus, despite all the miracles he has performed. Unbelievably, even after all the marvelous things that he has done, they ask: "What, then, are you performing as a sign, in order for us to see it and believe you? What work are you doing? Our forefathers ate the manna in the wilderness, just as it is written, 'He gave them bread from heaven to eat.' "
In response to their request for a sign, Jesus makes clear the Source of the miraculous provisions, saying: "Moses did not give you the bread from heaven, but my Father does give you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world." "Lord," the people say, "always give us this bread."
Next time: Conclusion of "True Bread From Heaven
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.03.2009
A Desired Superhuman Ruler
WHEN Jesus miraculously feeds the thousands, the people are amazed. "This is for a certainty the prophet that was to come into the world," they say. They conclude not only that Jesus must be that prophet greater than Moses but also that he would make a most desirable ruler. So they plan to seize him and make him king.
Jesus, however, is aware of what the people are planning. So he quickly moves to avoid being forcibly drafted by them. He dismisses the crowds and compels his disciples to get in their boat and head back toward Capernaum. He then withdraws into the mountain to pray. That night Jesus is there all alone.
Shortly before dawn Jesus looks out from his elevated vantage point and observes waves being whipped up on the sea by a strong wind. In the light of the almost full moon, since it is near Passover, Jesus sees the boat with his disciples struggling to make headway against the waves. The men are rowing with all their might.
At seeing this, Jesus descends from the mountain and begins walking toward the boat across the waves. The boat has gone about three or four miles when Jesus reaches it. However, he continues on as though he is going to pass by. When the disciples see him, they cry: "It is an apparition!" Jesus comfortingly responds: " It is I; have no fear." But Pete says: "Lord, If it is you, command me to come to you over the waters." "Come!" Jesus answers.
Thereupon, Peter, getting out of the boat, walks over the waters toward Jesus. But looking at the windstorm, Peter becomes afraid, and starting to sink, he cries: "Lord, save me!" Immediately stretching out his hand, Jesus catches him, saying: "You with little faith, why did you give way to doubt?"
After Peter and Jesus get back into the boat, the wind stops, and the disciples are amazed. But should they be? If they had grasped "the meaning of the loaves" by appreciating the great miracle Jesus performed a few hours earlier when he fed thousands with only five loaves and two little fishes, then it should not have seemed so amazing that he could walk on water and cause the wind to abate. Now, however, the disciples do obeisance to Jesus and say: "You are really God's Son."
In a short time, they reach Gennesaret, a beautiful, fruitful plain near Capernaum, there they anchor the boat. But when they go ashore, people recognize Jesus and go into the surrounding country, finding those who are sick. When these are brought on their cots and just touch the fringe of Jesus' outer garment, they are made completely well.
Meanwhile, the crowd that witnessed the miraculous feeding of the thousands discover that Jesus has left. So when little boats from Tiberias arrive, they board these and sail to Capernaum to look for Jesus. When they find him, they ask: "Rabbi, when did you get here?" Jesus rebukes them, as we soon will see. John 6:14-25; Matthew 14:22-36; Mark 6:45-56.
Next time: "True Bread From Heaven"
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Jesus, however, is aware of what the people are planning. So he quickly moves to avoid being forcibly drafted by them. He dismisses the crowds and compels his disciples to get in their boat and head back toward Capernaum. He then withdraws into the mountain to pray. That night Jesus is there all alone.
Shortly before dawn Jesus looks out from his elevated vantage point and observes waves being whipped up on the sea by a strong wind. In the light of the almost full moon, since it is near Passover, Jesus sees the boat with his disciples struggling to make headway against the waves. The men are rowing with all their might.
At seeing this, Jesus descends from the mountain and begins walking toward the boat across the waves. The boat has gone about three or four miles when Jesus reaches it. However, he continues on as though he is going to pass by. When the disciples see him, they cry: "It is an apparition!" Jesus comfortingly responds: " It is I; have no fear." But Pete says: "Lord, If it is you, command me to come to you over the waters." "Come!" Jesus answers.
Thereupon, Peter, getting out of the boat, walks over the waters toward Jesus. But looking at the windstorm, Peter becomes afraid, and starting to sink, he cries: "Lord, save me!" Immediately stretching out his hand, Jesus catches him, saying: "You with little faith, why did you give way to doubt?"
After Peter and Jesus get back into the boat, the wind stops, and the disciples are amazed. But should they be? If they had grasped "the meaning of the loaves" by appreciating the great miracle Jesus performed a few hours earlier when he fed thousands with only five loaves and two little fishes, then it should not have seemed so amazing that he could walk on water and cause the wind to abate. Now, however, the disciples do obeisance to Jesus and say: "You are really God's Son."
In a short time, they reach Gennesaret, a beautiful, fruitful plain near Capernaum, there they anchor the boat. But when they go ashore, people recognize Jesus and go into the surrounding country, finding those who are sick. When these are brought on their cots and just touch the fringe of Jesus' outer garment, they are made completely well.
Meanwhile, the crowd that witnessed the miraculous feeding of the thousands discover that Jesus has left. So when little boats from Tiberias arrive, they board these and sail to Capernaum to look for Jesus. When they find him, they ask: "Rabbi, when did you get here?" Jesus rebukes them, as we soon will see. John 6:14-25; Matthew 14:22-36; Mark 6:45-56.
Next time: "True Bread From Heaven"
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.02.2009
Jesus Miraculously Feeds Thousands
THE 12 apostles have enjoyed a remarkable preaching tour throughout Galilee. Now, shortly after John's execution, they return to Jesus and relate their wonderful experiences. Seeing that they are tired and that so many people are coming and going that they don't even have time to eat, Jesus says: 'Let us go off by ourselves to a lonely place where you can rest up.'
Boarding their boat, probably near Capernaum, they head for an out-of-the-way place, evidently east of the Jordan beyond Bethsaida. Many people, however, see them leave, and others learn about it. These all run ahead along the shore, and when the boat lands, the people are there to meet them.
Getting out of the boat and seeing the great crowd, Jesus is moved with pity because the people are as sheep without a shepherd. So he heals their sick and begins teaching them many things.
Time passes quickly, and Jesus' disciples come to him and say: "The place is isolated, and the hour is already late. Send them away, that they may go off into the countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat." However, in reply Jesus says: "You give them something to eat." Then, since Jesus already knows what he is going to do, he tests Philip by asking him: "Where should we buy loaves of bread for these to eat?"
From Philip's point of view the situation is impossible. Why, there are about 5,000 men, and probably well over 10,000 people counting also women and children! Philip responds that "two hundred denarii [a denarius was then a day's wage] worth of loaves is not enough for them, so that each one may get a little."
Perhaps to show the impossibility of feeding so many Andrew volunteers: "Here is a little boy that has five barley loaves and two small fishes," adding, "But what are these among so many?" Since it is springtime, just before Passover 32 C.E., there is a lot of green grass. So Jesus has his disciples tell the people to recline on the grass in groups of 50 and 100. He takes the five loaves and two fishes, looks to heaven, and says a blessing. Then he begins breaking the loaves and dividing up the fishes. He gives them to his disciples, who, in turn, distribute them to the people. Amazingly, all the people eat until they have had enough!
Afterward Jesus tells his disciples: "Gather together the fragments that remain over, so that nothing is wasted.: When they do, they fill 12 baskets with the leftovers from what they have eaten! Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:30-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-13.
Next time: A Desired Superhuman Ruler
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Boarding their boat, probably near Capernaum, they head for an out-of-the-way place, evidently east of the Jordan beyond Bethsaida. Many people, however, see them leave, and others learn about it. These all run ahead along the shore, and when the boat lands, the people are there to meet them.
Getting out of the boat and seeing the great crowd, Jesus is moved with pity because the people are as sheep without a shepherd. So he heals their sick and begins teaching them many things.
Time passes quickly, and Jesus' disciples come to him and say: "The place is isolated, and the hour is already late. Send them away, that they may go off into the countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat." However, in reply Jesus says: "You give them something to eat." Then, since Jesus already knows what he is going to do, he tests Philip by asking him: "Where should we buy loaves of bread for these to eat?"
From Philip's point of view the situation is impossible. Why, there are about 5,000 men, and probably well over 10,000 people counting also women and children! Philip responds that "two hundred denarii [a denarius was then a day's wage] worth of loaves is not enough for them, so that each one may get a little."
Perhaps to show the impossibility of feeding so many Andrew volunteers: "Here is a little boy that has five barley loaves and two small fishes," adding, "But what are these among so many?" Since it is springtime, just before Passover 32 C.E., there is a lot of green grass. So Jesus has his disciples tell the people to recline on the grass in groups of 50 and 100. He takes the five loaves and two fishes, looks to heaven, and says a blessing. Then he begins breaking the loaves and dividing up the fishes. He gives them to his disciples, who, in turn, distribute them to the people. Amazingly, all the people eat until they have had enough!
Afterward Jesus tells his disciples: "Gather together the fragments that remain over, so that nothing is wasted.: When they do, they fill 12 baskets with the leftovers from what they have eaten! Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:30-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-13.
Next time: A Desired Superhuman Ruler
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.01.2009
Murder During A Birthday Party
AFTER giving instructions to his apostles, Jesus sends them out into the territory in pairs. Probably the brothers Peter and Andrew go together, as do James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas and Matthew, James and Thaddaeus, and Simon and Judas Iscariot. The six pairs of evangelizers declare the good news of the Kingdom and perform miraculous cures everywhere they go.
Meanwhile, John the Baptizer is still in prison. He has been there almost two years now. You may recall that John had declared publicly that it was wrong for Herod Antipas to take Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, as his own. Since Herod Antipas claimed to follow the Mosaic Law, John had properly exposed the adulterous union. So Herod had John thrown into prison, perhaps at the urging of Herodias.
Herod Antipas realizes that John is a righteous man and even listens to him with pleasure. Therefore, he is at a loss as to what to do with him. Herodias, on the other hand, hates John and keeps seeking to have him put to death. Finally, the opportunity she has been waiting for comes.
Shortly before the Passover of 32 C.E., Herod arranges a large celebration of his birthday. Assembled for the party are all Herod's top-ranking officials and army officers, as well as the leading citizens of Galilee. As the evening progresses, Salome the young daughter of Herodias by her former husband Philip, is sent in to dance for the guests. The male audience is enthralled by her performance.
Herod is highly pleased with Salome. "Ask me for whatever you want, and I will give it to you," he declares. He even swears: "Whatever you ask me for, I will give it to you, up to half my kingdom." Before answering, Salome goes out to consult with her mother. "What should I ask for?" She inquires.
The opportunity at last! "The head of John the Baptizer," Herodias answers without hesitation.
Quickly Salome returns to Herod and makes the request: "I want you to give me right away on a platter the head of John the Baptist."
Herod is greatly distressed. Yet because his guests have heard his oath, he is embarrassed not to grant it, even though this means murdering an innocent man. An executioner is immediately dispatched to the prison with is grisly instructions. Shortly he returns with John's head on a platter, and he gives it to Salome. She, in turn, takes it to her mother. When John's disciples hear what has happened, they come and remove his body and bury it, and then they report the matter to Jesus.
Later, when Herod hears of Jesus' healing people and casting out demons, he is frightened, fearing that Jesus is actually John who has been raised from the dead. Thereafter, he greatly desires to see Jesus, not to hear his preaching, but to confirm whether his fears are well-founded or not. Matthew 10:1-5; 11:1; 14:1-12; Mark 6:14-29; Luke 9:7-9.
NOTE: This is why there should not be any birthdays celebrated. Also, Jesus never celebrated his birthday either because it is not something to be celebrated because we were born into sin and birthdays are not meant to be celebrated. We are all born into sin and are imperfect humans are do not deserve to celebrate any birthdays.
Next time: Jesus Miraculously Feeds Thousands
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Meanwhile, John the Baptizer is still in prison. He has been there almost two years now. You may recall that John had declared publicly that it was wrong for Herod Antipas to take Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, as his own. Since Herod Antipas claimed to follow the Mosaic Law, John had properly exposed the adulterous union. So Herod had John thrown into prison, perhaps at the urging of Herodias.
Herod Antipas realizes that John is a righteous man and even listens to him with pleasure. Therefore, he is at a loss as to what to do with him. Herodias, on the other hand, hates John and keeps seeking to have him put to death. Finally, the opportunity she has been waiting for comes.
Shortly before the Passover of 32 C.E., Herod arranges a large celebration of his birthday. Assembled for the party are all Herod's top-ranking officials and army officers, as well as the leading citizens of Galilee. As the evening progresses, Salome the young daughter of Herodias by her former husband Philip, is sent in to dance for the guests. The male audience is enthralled by her performance.
Herod is highly pleased with Salome. "Ask me for whatever you want, and I will give it to you," he declares. He even swears: "Whatever you ask me for, I will give it to you, up to half my kingdom." Before answering, Salome goes out to consult with her mother. "What should I ask for?" She inquires.
The opportunity at last! "The head of John the Baptizer," Herodias answers without hesitation.
Quickly Salome returns to Herod and makes the request: "I want you to give me right away on a platter the head of John the Baptist."
Herod is greatly distressed. Yet because his guests have heard his oath, he is embarrassed not to grant it, even though this means murdering an innocent man. An executioner is immediately dispatched to the prison with is grisly instructions. Shortly he returns with John's head on a platter, and he gives it to Salome. She, in turn, takes it to her mother. When John's disciples hear what has happened, they come and remove his body and bury it, and then they report the matter to Jesus.
Later, when Herod hears of Jesus' healing people and casting out demons, he is frightened, fearing that Jesus is actually John who has been raised from the dead. Thereafter, he greatly desires to see Jesus, not to hear his preaching, but to confirm whether his fears are well-founded or not. Matthew 10:1-5; 11:1; 14:1-12; Mark 6:14-29; Luke 9:7-9.
NOTE: This is why there should not be any birthdays celebrated. Also, Jesus never celebrated his birthday either because it is not something to be celebrated because we were born into sin and birthdays are not meant to be celebrated. We are all born into sin and are imperfect humans are do not deserve to celebrate any birthdays.
Next time: Jesus Miraculously Feeds Thousands
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
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