When the disciples get together after their return trip to Capernaum, perhaps at Peter's house, they ask: "Who really is the greatest inthe kingdom of the heavens?" Jesus knows what it is that prompts their question, being aware of what was going on among them as they trailed behind him on their return from Caesarea Philippi. So he asks: "What were you arguing over on the road?" Embarrassed, the disciples keep silent, for they had argued among themselves over who would be the greatest.
After nearly three years of Jesus' teaching, does it seem incredible that the disciples would have such an argument? Well, it reveals the strong influence of human imperfection, as well as of religious background. The Jewish religion in which the disciples had been reared stressed position or rank in all dealings. Furthermore, perhaps Peter, because of Jesus' promise of receiving certain "keys" to the Kingdom, felt superior. James and John may have had similar ideas because of being favored with witnessing Jesus' transfiguration.
Whatever the case, Jesus stages a moving demonstration in an effort to correct their attitudes. He calls a child, stands it in their midst, puts his arms around it, and says: "Unless you turn around and become as young children, you will by no means enter into the kingdom of the heavens. Therefore, whoever will humble himself like this young child is the one that is the greatest in the kingdom of the heavens; and whoever receives one such young child on the basis of my name receives me also."
What a marvelous way to correct his disciples! Jesus does not become angry with them and call them haughty, greedy or ambitious. No, but he illustrates his corrective teaching by using the example of young children, who are characteristically modest and free from ambition and who generally have not thought of rank among themselves. Thus Jesus shows that his disciples need to develop these qualities that characterize humble children. As Jesus concludes: "He that conducts himself as a lesser one among all of you is the one that is great." Matthew 17:22-27; 18:1-5; Mark 9:30-37; Luke 9:43-48.
Next time: Further Corrective Counsel
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.20.2009
2.19.2009
A Lesson In Humility
AFTER healing the demonized boy in the region near Caesarea Philippi, Jesus wishes to return home to Capernaum. However, he wants to be alone with his disciples on the trip so that he can further prepare them for his death and their responsibilities afterward. "The Son of man is to be delivered into men's hand," he explains to them, "and they will kill him, but, despite being killed, he will rise three days later."
Even though Jesus spoke earlier about this, and three apostles actually saw the transfiguration during which his "departure" was discussed, his followers are still without understanding regarding the matter. Although none of them try to deny that he will be killed, as Peter did earlier, they are afraid to question him further about it.
Eventually they come into Capernaum, which has been a kind of home base during Jesus' ministry. It is also the hometown of Peter and a number of other apostles. There, men who collect the temple tax approach Peter. Perhaps attempting to involve Jesus in some breach of accepted custom, they ask: "Does your teacher not pay the two drachmas [temple]tax?" "Yes," Peter responds.
Jesus, who may have arrived at the house shortly afterward, is aware of what has occurred. So even before Peter can bring the matter up, Jesus asks: "What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth receive duties or head tax? From their sons or from the strangers?" "From the strangers," Peter answers. Really, then, the sons are tax-free," Jesus observes. Since Jesus' Father is the King of the universe, the One who is worshiped at the temple, it is not really a legal requirement for God's son to pay the temple tax. "But that we do not cause them to stumble," Jesus says, "you go to the sea, cast a fishhook, and take the first fish coming up and, when you open its mouth, you will find a stater [four drachmas] coin. Take that and give it to them for me and you."
Next time: Conclusion of A lesson In Humility
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Even though Jesus spoke earlier about this, and three apostles actually saw the transfiguration during which his "departure" was discussed, his followers are still without understanding regarding the matter. Although none of them try to deny that he will be killed, as Peter did earlier, they are afraid to question him further about it.
Eventually they come into Capernaum, which has been a kind of home base during Jesus' ministry. It is also the hometown of Peter and a number of other apostles. There, men who collect the temple tax approach Peter. Perhaps attempting to involve Jesus in some breach of accepted custom, they ask: "Does your teacher not pay the two drachmas [temple]tax?" "Yes," Peter responds.
Jesus, who may have arrived at the house shortly afterward, is aware of what has occurred. So even before Peter can bring the matter up, Jesus asks: "What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth receive duties or head tax? From their sons or from the strangers?" "From the strangers," Peter answers. Really, then, the sons are tax-free," Jesus observes. Since Jesus' Father is the King of the universe, the One who is worshiped at the temple, it is not really a legal requirement for God's son to pay the temple tax. "But that we do not cause them to stumble," Jesus says, "you go to the sea, cast a fishhook, and take the first fish coming up and, when you open its mouth, you will find a stater [four drachmas] coin. Take that and give it to them for me and you."
Next time: Conclusion of A lesson In Humility
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.18.2009
Conclusion Of Possessed Boy Healed
Earlier, when the disciples had been sent forth to preach, they had expelled demons. So now, when they enter a house, they ask Jesus privately: "Why could we not expel it?" Indicating that it was because of their lack of faith, Jesus answers: "This kind cannot get out except by prayer." Evidently preparation was called for to expel the especially powerful demon involved in this case. Strong faith along with prayer requesting God's empowering help was needed.
And then Jesus adds: "Truly I say to you, if you have the size of a mustard grain, you will say to this mountain, 'Transfer from here to there,' and it will transfer, and nothing will be impossible for you." How powerful faith can be!
Obstacles and difficulties that block the progress in Jehovah's service may seem insurmountable and irremovable as a great literal mountain. Yet, Jesus is showing that if we cultivate faith in our hearts, watering it and encouraging it to grow, it will expand to maturity and will enable us to overcome such mountain like obstacles and difficulties. Mark 9:14-29; Matthew 17:19, 20; Luke 9:37-43.
Next time: A Lesson In Humility
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
And then Jesus adds: "Truly I say to you, if you have the size of a mustard grain, you will say to this mountain, 'Transfer from here to there,' and it will transfer, and nothing will be impossible for you." How powerful faith can be!
Obstacles and difficulties that block the progress in Jehovah's service may seem insurmountable and irremovable as a great literal mountain. Yet, Jesus is showing that if we cultivate faith in our hearts, watering it and encouraging it to grow, it will expand to maturity and will enable us to overcome such mountain like obstacles and difficulties. Mark 9:14-29; Matthew 17:19, 20; Luke 9:37-43.
Next time: A Lesson In Humility
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.17.2009
Possessed Boy Healed
WHILE Jesus, Peter, James and John are away, likely on a spur of Mount Hermon, the other disciples run into a problem. On his return, Jesus immediately sees that something is wrong. There is a crowd gathered around his disciples, and the scribes are arguing with them. On seeing Jesus, the people are greatly surprised and run to greet him. "What are you disputing with them?" He asks.
Coming forward from the crowd, a man kneels before Jesus and explains: "Teacher, I brought my son to you because he has a speechless spirit; and wherever it seizes him it dashes him to the ground, and he foams and grinds his teeth and loses his strength. And I told your disciples to expel it, but they were not capable." The scribes are apparently making the most of the disciples' failure to heal the boy , perhaps ridiculing their efforts, at just this critical moment, Jesus arrives. "O faithless generation," he says, "how long must I continue with you? How long must I put up with you?"
Jesus seems to address his remarks to everyone present, but no doubt they are directed particularly to the scribes, who have been making trouble for his disciples. Next, Jesus says of the boy: "Bring him to me." But as the boy comes to Jesus, the demon that possesses him knocks him to the ground and throws him into violent convulsions. The boy rolls on the ground and foams at the mouth. "How long as this been happening to him?" Jesus asks. "From childhood on, " the father answers. "Time and time again [the demon] would throw him both into the fire and int o the water to destroy him." Then the father pleads: "If you can do anything, have pity on us and help us."
Perhaps for years, the father has been seeking help. And now, with the failure of Jesus' disciples, his despair is great. Picking up on the man's desperate appeal, Jesus is encouragingly says: "That expression, "if you can!' Why, all things can be to one if one has faith." I have faith!" the father immediately cries out, but he begs: "Help me out where I need the faith!"
Noticing that the crowd is running together upon them, Jesus rebukes the demon: "You speechless and deaf spirit, I order you to get out of him and enter into him no more." As the demon departs, it again causes the boy to cry out and drives him into many convulsions. Then the boy lies motionless on the ground, so that most of the people begin saying: "He is dead!" But Jesus takes the boy by the hand, and he rises.
Next time: Conclusion of Possessed Boy Healed
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Coming forward from the crowd, a man kneels before Jesus and explains: "Teacher, I brought my son to you because he has a speechless spirit; and wherever it seizes him it dashes him to the ground, and he foams and grinds his teeth and loses his strength. And I told your disciples to expel it, but they were not capable." The scribes are apparently making the most of the disciples' failure to heal the boy , perhaps ridiculing their efforts, at just this critical moment, Jesus arrives. "O faithless generation," he says, "how long must I continue with you? How long must I put up with you?"
Jesus seems to address his remarks to everyone present, but no doubt they are directed particularly to the scribes, who have been making trouble for his disciples. Next, Jesus says of the boy: "Bring him to me." But as the boy comes to Jesus, the demon that possesses him knocks him to the ground and throws him into violent convulsions. The boy rolls on the ground and foams at the mouth. "How long as this been happening to him?" Jesus asks. "From childhood on, " the father answers. "Time and time again [the demon] would throw him both into the fire and int o the water to destroy him." Then the father pleads: "If you can do anything, have pity on us and help us."
Perhaps for years, the father has been seeking help. And now, with the failure of Jesus' disciples, his despair is great. Picking up on the man's desperate appeal, Jesus is encouragingly says: "That expression, "if you can!' Why, all things can be to one if one has faith." I have faith!" the father immediately cries out, but he begs: "Help me out where I need the faith!"
Noticing that the crowd is running together upon them, Jesus rebukes the demon: "You speechless and deaf spirit, I order you to get out of him and enter into him no more." As the demon departs, it again causes the boy to cry out and drives him into many convulsions. Then the boy lies motionless on the ground, so that most of the people begin saying: "He is dead!" But Jesus takes the boy by the hand, and he rises.
Next time: Conclusion of Possessed Boy Healed
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.16.2009
A Preview Of Christ's Kingdom Glory
JESUS has come into the parts of Caesarea Philippi, and he is teaching a crowd that includes his apostles. He makes this startling announcement to them: "Truly I say to you that there are some of those standing here that will not taste death at all until they see the Son of man coming in his Kingdom. 'What could Jesus mean?' The disciples must wonder. About a week later, Jesus takes Peter, James and John along with him, and they climb a lofty mountain. Possibly it is at night, since the disciples are sleepy. While Jesus is praying, he is transfigured before them. His face begins to shine as the sun, and his garments become brilliant as light.
Then, the two figures, identified as "Moses and Elijah," appear and start talking to Jesus about his 'departure that is to occur at Jerusalem.' The departure evidently refers to Jesus' death and subsequent resurrection. Thus, this conversation proves that his humiliating death is not something to be avoided, as Peter had desired. Fully awake now, the disciples watch and listen with amazement. Although this is a vision, it appears so real that Peter beings to participate in the scene, saying: "Lord, it is fine for us to be here. If you wish, I will erect three tents here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah."
While Peter is speaking, a bright cloud covers them, and a voice from the cloud says: "This is my Son, the beloved whom I have approved; listen to him." At hearing the voice, the disciples fall on their faces. But Jesus says: "Get up and have no fear." When they do, they see no one except Jesus.
On their way down the mountain the next day, Jesus commands: "Tell the vision to no one until the Son of man is raised from the dead." Elijah's appearance in the vision raises a question in the disciples' minds. "Why," they ask, "do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?" Elijah has already come," says Jesus, "and they did not recognize him." Jesus, however, is speaking about John the Baptizer, who fulfilled a role similar to Elijah's. John prepared the way for Christ, as Elijah did for Elisha.
How strengthening this vision proves to be, both to Jesus and the disciples! The vision is, as it were, a preview of Christ's Kingdom glory. The disciples saw, in effect, "the Son of man coming in his kingdom," just as Jesus had promised a week earlier. After Jesus' death, Peter wrote about their having 'become eyewitnesses of Christ's magnificence while they were with him in the holy mountain.'
The Pharisees had demanded from Jesus a sign to prove that he was the one promised in the Scriptures to be God's chose King. They were given no such sign. On the other hand, Jesus' intimate disciples are permitted to see Jesus' transfiguration as confirmation of the Kingdom prophecies . Thus, Peter later wrote: "Consequently we have the prophetic word made more sure." Matthew 16:13, 28-17; 13; Mark 9:1-13; Luke 9:27-37; 2 Peter 1:16-19.
Next time: Possessed Boy Healed
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived,1991
Then, the two figures, identified as "Moses and Elijah," appear and start talking to Jesus about his 'departure that is to occur at Jerusalem.' The departure evidently refers to Jesus' death and subsequent resurrection. Thus, this conversation proves that his humiliating death is not something to be avoided, as Peter had desired. Fully awake now, the disciples watch and listen with amazement. Although this is a vision, it appears so real that Peter beings to participate in the scene, saying: "Lord, it is fine for us to be here. If you wish, I will erect three tents here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah."
While Peter is speaking, a bright cloud covers them, and a voice from the cloud says: "This is my Son, the beloved whom I have approved; listen to him." At hearing the voice, the disciples fall on their faces. But Jesus says: "Get up and have no fear." When they do, they see no one except Jesus.
On their way down the mountain the next day, Jesus commands: "Tell the vision to no one until the Son of man is raised from the dead." Elijah's appearance in the vision raises a question in the disciples' minds. "Why," they ask, "do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?" Elijah has already come," says Jesus, "and they did not recognize him." Jesus, however, is speaking about John the Baptizer, who fulfilled a role similar to Elijah's. John prepared the way for Christ, as Elijah did for Elisha.
How strengthening this vision proves to be, both to Jesus and the disciples! The vision is, as it were, a preview of Christ's Kingdom glory. The disciples saw, in effect, "the Son of man coming in his kingdom," just as Jesus had promised a week earlier. After Jesus' death, Peter wrote about their having 'become eyewitnesses of Christ's magnificence while they were with him in the holy mountain.'
The Pharisees had demanded from Jesus a sign to prove that he was the one promised in the Scriptures to be God's chose King. They were given no such sign. On the other hand, Jesus' intimate disciples are permitted to see Jesus' transfiguration as confirmation of the Kingdom prophecies . Thus, Peter later wrote: "Consequently we have the prophetic word made more sure." Matthew 16:13, 28-17; 13; Mark 9:1-13; Luke 9:27-37; 2 Peter 1:16-19.
Next time: Possessed Boy Healed
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived,1991
2.15.2009
Conclusion of Who Really Is Jesus?
Jesus thus reveals that Peter is to receive special privileges. No, Peter is not given the first place among the apostles, nor is he made the foundation of the congregation. Jesus himself is the Rock-Mass upon which his congregation is to be built. But Peter is to be given three keys with which to open, as it were, the opportunity for groups of people to enter the Kingdom of the heavens.
Peter would use the first key at Pentecost 33 C.E. to show repentant Jews what they must do to be saved. He would use the second shortly afterward to open to believing Samaritans the opportunity to enter God's Kingdom. Then, in 36 C.E. he would use the third key to open to uncircumcised Gentiles, Cornelius and his friends, the same opportunity.
Jesus continues his discussion with his apostles. He disappoints them by telling of the sufferings and death that he will soon face in Jerusalem. Failing to understand that Jesus will be resurrected to heavenly life, Peter takes Jesus aside. "Be kind to yourself, Lord," he says. "You will not have this destiny at all." Turning his back, Jesus answers: "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me, because you think, not God's thoughts,but those of men."
Evidently, other besides the apostles are traveling with Jesus, so he now calls them to him and explains that it will not be easy to be his follower. "If anyone wants to come after me," he says, "Let him disown himself and pick up his torture stake and follow me continually. For whoever wants to save his soul will lose it; but whoever loses his soul for the sake of me and the good news will save it."
Yes, if they would prove worthy of his favor, Jesus' followers must be courageous and self-sacrificing. He relates: "For whoever becomes ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of man will also be ashamed of him when he arrives in the glory of his Father with the holy angels." Mark 8:22-38; Matthew 16:13-28; Luke 9:18-27.
Next time: A Preview Of Christ's Kingdom Glory
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Peter would use the first key at Pentecost 33 C.E. to show repentant Jews what they must do to be saved. He would use the second shortly afterward to open to believing Samaritans the opportunity to enter God's Kingdom. Then, in 36 C.E. he would use the third key to open to uncircumcised Gentiles, Cornelius and his friends, the same opportunity.
Jesus continues his discussion with his apostles. He disappoints them by telling of the sufferings and death that he will soon face in Jerusalem. Failing to understand that Jesus will be resurrected to heavenly life, Peter takes Jesus aside. "Be kind to yourself, Lord," he says. "You will not have this destiny at all." Turning his back, Jesus answers: "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me, because you think, not God's thoughts,but those of men."
Evidently, other besides the apostles are traveling with Jesus, so he now calls them to him and explains that it will not be easy to be his follower. "If anyone wants to come after me," he says, "Let him disown himself and pick up his torture stake and follow me continually. For whoever wants to save his soul will lose it; but whoever loses his soul for the sake of me and the good news will save it."
Yes, if they would prove worthy of his favor, Jesus' followers must be courageous and self-sacrificing. He relates: "For whoever becomes ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of man will also be ashamed of him when he arrives in the glory of his Father with the holy angels." Mark 8:22-38; Matthew 16:13-28; Luke 9:18-27.
Next time: A Preview Of Christ's Kingdom Glory
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.14.2009
Who Really Is Jesus?
WHEN the boat carrying Jesus and his disciples puts in at Bethsaida, the people bring a blind man to him and beg that he touch the man and heal him. Jesus leads the man by the hand outside the village and, after spitting in his eyes, asks: "Do you see anything?" "I see men," the man answers, " because I observe what seem to be trees, but they are walking about." Laying his hands on the man's eyes, Jesus restores his sight so that he sees clearly. Jesus then sends the man home with the instructions not to enter into the city.
Jesus now leaves with his disciples for the villages of Caesarea Philippi, in the extreme north of Palestine. It is a long ascent, covering about 30 miles, to the beautiful location of Caesarea Phillipi, some 1,150 feet above sea level. The trip probably takes a couple of days.
On the way, Jesus goes off by himself to pray. Only about nine or ten months remain before his death, and he is concerned about his disciples. Many have already left off following him. Others are apparently confused and disappointed because he rejected the people's efforts to make him king and because he did not, when challenged by his enemies, provide a sign from heaven to prove his kingship. What do his apostles believe about his identity? When they come over to where he is praying, Jesus inquires: "Who are the crowds saying that I am?"
Some say John the baptist," they answer, "others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." Yes, the people think Jesus is one of these men raised from the dead!
"You, though, who do you say I am?" Jesus asks. Peter quickly responds: "You are the Christ , the Son of the living God."
After expressing approval of Peter's response, Jesus said: " I say to you, You are Peter, and on this rock-mass, I will build my congregation, and the gates of Hades will not over-power it." Here Jesus first announces that he will build a congregation and that even death will not hold its members captive after their faithful course on earth. then he tells Peter: "I will give you the kingdom of the heavens."
Next time: Conclusion of Who Really Is Jesus?
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Jesus now leaves with his disciples for the villages of Caesarea Philippi, in the extreme north of Palestine. It is a long ascent, covering about 30 miles, to the beautiful location of Caesarea Phillipi, some 1,150 feet above sea level. The trip probably takes a couple of days.
On the way, Jesus goes off by himself to pray. Only about nine or ten months remain before his death, and he is concerned about his disciples. Many have already left off following him. Others are apparently confused and disappointed because he rejected the people's efforts to make him king and because he did not, when challenged by his enemies, provide a sign from heaven to prove his kingship. What do his apostles believe about his identity? When they come over to where he is praying, Jesus inquires: "Who are the crowds saying that I am?"
Some say John the baptist," they answer, "others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." Yes, the people think Jesus is one of these men raised from the dead!
"You, though, who do you say I am?" Jesus asks. Peter quickly responds: "You are the Christ , the Son of the living God."
After expressing approval of Peter's response, Jesus said: " I say to you, You are Peter, and on this rock-mass, I will build my congregation, and the gates of Hades will not over-power it." Here Jesus first announces that he will build a congregation and that even death will not hold its members captive after their faithful course on earth. then he tells Peter: "I will give you the kingdom of the heavens."
Next time: Conclusion of Who Really Is Jesus?
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.13.2009
Conclusion of The Loaves And The Leaven
Having in mind his recent encounter with the Pharisees and the Sadducean supporters of Herod, Jesus admonishes: "Keep your eyes open, look out for the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod." Evidently the mention of leaven makes the disciples think that Jesus is referring to their forgetting to bring bread, so they begin to argue about the matter. Noting their misunderstanding, Jesus says: "Why do you argue over your having no loaves?"
Recently, Jesus had miraculously provided for thousands of people, performing this last miracle perhaps only a day or two before. They should know that he is not concerned about a lack of literal loaves. "Do you not remember," he reminds them, "when I broke the five loaves for the five thousand men, how many baskets full of fragments you took up?" "Twelve, they reply.
"Why I broke the seven for the four thousand men, how many provision baskets full of fragments did you take up?" "Seven, they answer.
"Do you not yet get the meaning?" Jesus asks. "How is it you do not discern that I did not talk to you about loaves? But watch out for the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees."
The disciples finally get the point. Leaven, a substance to cause fermentation and made bread rise, was a word used to denote corruption. So now the disciples understand that Jesus is using a symbolism, that he is warning them to be on guard against "the teaching of the Pharisees and the Sadducees," which teaching has a corrupting effect. Mark 8:1-21; Matthew 15:32-16:12.
Next time: Who Really Is Jesus?
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived,1991
Recently, Jesus had miraculously provided for thousands of people, performing this last miracle perhaps only a day or two before. They should know that he is not concerned about a lack of literal loaves. "Do you not remember," he reminds them, "when I broke the five loaves for the five thousand men, how many baskets full of fragments you took up?" "Twelve, they reply.
"Why I broke the seven for the four thousand men, how many provision baskets full of fragments did you take up?" "Seven, they answer.
"Do you not yet get the meaning?" Jesus asks. "How is it you do not discern that I did not talk to you about loaves? But watch out for the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees."
The disciples finally get the point. Leaven, a substance to cause fermentation and made bread rise, was a word used to denote corruption. So now the disciples understand that Jesus is using a symbolism, that he is warning them to be on guard against "the teaching of the Pharisees and the Sadducees," which teaching has a corrupting effect. Mark 8:1-21; Matthew 15:32-16:12.
Next time: Who Really Is Jesus?
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived,1991
2.12.2009
The Loaves And The Leaven
GREAT crowds have flocked to Jesus in the Decapolis. Many came a long way to this largely Gentile-populated region to listen to him and to be healed of their infirmities. They have brought with them large baskets or hampers, that they customarily use to carry provisions when traveling through Gentile areas.
Eventually, however, Jesus calls his disciples and says: "I feel pity for the crowd, because it is already three days that they have remained near me and they have nothing to eat; and if I should send them off to their homes fasting, they will give out on the road. Indeed, some of them are from far away." "From where will anybody here in an isolated place be able to satisfy these people with loaves?" The disciples ask. Jesus inquires: "How many loaves have you?" "Seven, they answer, "and a few little fishes."
Instructing the people to recline on the ground, Jesus takes the loaves and the fishes, prays to God, breaks them, and begins giving them to his disciples. They, in turn, serve the people, who all eat to satisfaction. Afterward when the leftovers are picked up, there are seven provision baskets full, even though about 4,000 men, as well as women and children have eaten!
Jesus sends the crowds away, boards a boat with his disciples, and crosses to the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. Here the Pharisees, this time accompanied by members of the religious sect of the Sadducees, try to temp Jesus by asking him to display a sign from heaven. Aware of their efforts to tempt him, Jesus replies: "When evening falls you are accustomed to say, 'It will be fair weather, for the sky is fire-red;' and at morning, 'It will be wintry, rainy weather today, for the sky fire-red, but gloomy looking.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but the signs of the times you cannot interpret."
With that, Jesus calls them a wicked and adulterous generation and warns them that, as he told the Pharisees earlier, no sign will be given them except the sign of Jonah. Departing, he and his disciples get in a boat and head toward bethsaida on the northeast shore of the Sea of Galilee. En route the disciples discover that they have forgotten to bring bread, there being but one loaf among them.
Next time: Conclusion of The Loaves And The Leaven
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Eventually, however, Jesus calls his disciples and says: "I feel pity for the crowd, because it is already three days that they have remained near me and they have nothing to eat; and if I should send them off to their homes fasting, they will give out on the road. Indeed, some of them are from far away." "From where will anybody here in an isolated place be able to satisfy these people with loaves?" The disciples ask. Jesus inquires: "How many loaves have you?" "Seven, they answer, "and a few little fishes."
Instructing the people to recline on the ground, Jesus takes the loaves and the fishes, prays to God, breaks them, and begins giving them to his disciples. They, in turn, serve the people, who all eat to satisfaction. Afterward when the leftovers are picked up, there are seven provision baskets full, even though about 4,000 men, as well as women and children have eaten!
Jesus sends the crowds away, boards a boat with his disciples, and crosses to the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. Here the Pharisees, this time accompanied by members of the religious sect of the Sadducees, try to temp Jesus by asking him to display a sign from heaven. Aware of their efforts to tempt him, Jesus replies: "When evening falls you are accustomed to say, 'It will be fair weather, for the sky is fire-red;' and at morning, 'It will be wintry, rainy weather today, for the sky fire-red, but gloomy looking.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but the signs of the times you cannot interpret."
With that, Jesus calls them a wicked and adulterous generation and warns them that, as he told the Pharisees earlier, no sign will be given them except the sign of Jonah. Departing, he and his disciples get in a boat and head toward bethsaida on the northeast shore of the Sea of Galilee. En route the disciples discover that they have forgotten to bring bread, there being but one loaf among them.
Next time: Conclusion of The Loaves And The Leaven
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
2.11.2009
Conclusion of Compassion For The Afflicted
"O woman, great is your faith," Jesus replies. "Let it happen to you as you wish." And it does! When she returns to her home, she finds her daughter on the bed, completely healed.
From the coastal region of Sidon, Jesus and his disciples head across the country, toward the headwaters of the Jordan River. They apparently ford the Jordan somewhere above the Sea of Galilee and enter the region of the Decapolis east of the sea. There they climb a mountain, but the crowds find them and bring to Jesus their lame, crippled, blind and dumb, and many that are otherwise sick and deformed. They fairly throw them at Jesus' feet, and he cures them. The people are amazed, as they see the mute speaking, the lame walking and the blind seeing; and they praise the God of Israel.
Jesus gives special attention to one man who is deaf and hardly able to talk. The deaf are often easily embarrassed,especially in a crowd. Jesus may take note this man's particular nervousness. So Jesus compassionately takes him away from the crowd privately. When they are alone, Jesus indicates what he is going to do for him. He puts his fingers into he man's ears and, after spitting, touches his tongue. then, looking toward heaven, Jesus sighs deeply and says: "Be opened." At that, the man's hearing powers are restored, and he is able to speak normally.
When Jesus had performed these many cures, the crowds respond with appreciation. They say: "He has done all things well. He even makes the deaf hear and the speechless speak." Matthew 15:21-31; Mark 7:24-37.
Next time: The Loaves And The Leaven
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
From the coastal region of Sidon, Jesus and his disciples head across the country, toward the headwaters of the Jordan River. They apparently ford the Jordan somewhere above the Sea of Galilee and enter the region of the Decapolis east of the sea. There they climb a mountain, but the crowds find them and bring to Jesus their lame, crippled, blind and dumb, and many that are otherwise sick and deformed. They fairly throw them at Jesus' feet, and he cures them. The people are amazed, as they see the mute speaking, the lame walking and the blind seeing; and they praise the God of Israel.
Jesus gives special attention to one man who is deaf and hardly able to talk. The deaf are often easily embarrassed,especially in a crowd. Jesus may take note this man's particular nervousness. So Jesus compassionately takes him away from the crowd privately. When they are alone, Jesus indicates what he is going to do for him. He puts his fingers into he man's ears and, after spitting, touches his tongue. then, looking toward heaven, Jesus sighs deeply and says: "Be opened." At that, the man's hearing powers are restored, and he is able to speak normally.
When Jesus had performed these many cures, the crowds respond with appreciation. They say: "He has done all things well. He even makes the deaf hear and the speechless speak." Matthew 15:21-31; Mark 7:24-37.
Next time: The Loaves And The Leaven
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
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