1. Matthew

Matthew

The book of Matthew is written by Matthew the tax collector and disciple of Jesus to Greek speaking Jews around 60-70 AD. The book of Matthew chronicles the life, teachings, and ministry of Jesus the promised Messiah and King of the Jews. The book includes Jesus' birth, baptism, temptation, and public ministry, highlighting his teachings such as the Sermon on the Mount and parables. Jesus was a healer, wise teacher, and Son of God. The book also emphasizes Jesus' role as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, his interactions with disciples, and his predictions of his suffering, death, and resurrection. It concludes with Jesus' crucifixion, burial, resurrection, and instructions to his disciples.

The Genealogy of Jesus the Messiah - Chapter 1

There were fourteen generations from Abraham to David, fourteen generations from David to the Babylonian exile, and fourteen generations from the Babylonian exile to the birth of Jesus Christ. This genealogy is important because it highlights the fulfillment of the Messianic (the belief in a Messiah or savior) prophecy regarding the lineage of Jesus. It emphasizes Jesus' legal and royal lineage as a descendant of Abraham and David, which was significant in Jewish culture and religion. Additionally, the use of the number fourteen has symbolic significance, as it represents completion or fulfillment in Hebrew numerology. In Hebrew, the numeric value of the name "David" is also fourteen (D = 4, V = 6, D = 4), and David is considered an important figure in the lineage of Jesus as the promised Messiah. Therefore, the repetition of the number fourteen could be seen as emphasizing the significance and fulfillment of the Davidic lineage in Jesus as the promised Messiah, according to Jewish tradition and symbolism. Lastly, Matthew introduces Mary who was the virgin mother to Jesus.

Joseph Accepts Jesus As His Son

Joseph, who pledged to be married to Mary, found Mary pregnant. Since they had not consummated the marriage, Joseph planned on divorcing Mary, but the Lord appeared to Joseph and said '"Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit."' This was in fulfillment of the prophecy that the virgin would conceive and bear a son called Immanuel, which means "God with us." Joseph obeys and takes Mary as his wife, naming the child Jesus.

The Magi Visit The Messiah - Chapter 2

Magi (wise men) from the East come to Jerusalem seeking Jesus since they saw his star in the East. King Herod asks the chief priests and teachers where Jesus was born and they tell him Bethlehem, as prophesied in Micah 5:2. Herod secretly meets with the Magi and asks them to inform him when they find the child. The Magi follow the star and find Jesus with Mary in Bethlehem. They worship him and present him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Warned in a dream not to return to Herod, the Magi depart for their country by another route.

The Escape To Egypt

Joseph, Mary, and Jesus flee to Egypt to escape King Herod's plan to kill Jesus, fulfilling the prophecy of Hosea 11:1 that the Messiah would be called out of Egypt. Herod orders the massacre of male infants in Bethlehem, as foretold by Jeremiah 31:15, in an attempt to eliminate the perceived threat to his throne.

The Return to Nazareth

After the death of King Herod, an angel appears to Joseph in a dream and instructs him to return to Israel with Jesus and Mary. Joseph obeys and settles in Nazareth.

John The Baptist Prepares The Way - Chapter 3

John the Baptist was preaching and performing baptisms. While baptizing people in the Jordan River, he saw the Pharisees and Sadducees and said to them "You brood of vipers! Who wanted you to flee from the coming wrath?" -Matthew 3:7. Here and through Matthew 3:7-10 John the Baptist was challenging the religious leaders of his time for their known hypocrisy. John the Baptist also said '"I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire."' -Matthew 3-11, which signified Jesus's coming.

The Baptism Of Jesus

Jesus comes from Galilee to the Jordan River to be baptized by John the Baptist. John exclaimed that he should be baptized by Jesus but eventually agrees to baptize Jesus. When Jesus rose from the water, "heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him." -Matthew 3:16, and a voice from heaven declares Jesus as the beloved Son of God.

Jesus Is Tested In The Wilderness - Chapter 4

After his baptism, Jesus is led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. The devil first tempts Jesus to turn stones into bread, but Jesus responds, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God" -Matthew 4:4, quoting from Deuteronomy 8:3. The devil then tempts Jesus to jump off the pinnacle of the temple, saying that the angels will save him, but Jesus responds, "It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test'" -Matthew 4:7, quoting from Deuteronomy 6:16. Finally, the devil tempts Jesus with all the kingdoms of the world if he would worship him, but Jesus responds, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only'" (Matthew 4:10), quoting from Deuteronomy 6:13.

Jesus Begins To Preach

After John the Baptist's arrest, Jesus settles in Capernaum and commences his ministry, preaching repentance and proclaiming the imminence of the kingdom of heaven. This fulfills the prophecies of Isaiah concerning a great light shining in the darkness and the commencement of Jesus' ministry in Galilee.

Jesus Heals The Sick

Jesus begins his ministry in Galilee, preaching, teaching, and healing people from various afflictions. His fame spreads, drawing crowds from different regions who bring the sick and afflicted to him for healing.

Jesus Is Tested In The Wilderness - Chapter 5

Jesus Begins To Preach

Jesus Heals The Sick

Giving To The Needy - Chapter 6

Jesus instructs his followers to give to the needy in secret, without seeking recognition or reward from others, but with the understanding that God, who sees all, will reward them. He criticizes hypocritical displays of generosity and emphasizes the importance of genuine and selfless giving.

Prayer

Jesus instructs his followers on how to pray, warning against praying for show or using empty and repetitive words. Jesus emphasizes the importance of sincerity and intimacy in prayer, reminding them that God knows their needs even before they ask. Jesus then teaches them the Lord's Prayer, a model for how to pray.

Pray therefore in this manner:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:

but if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

-Matthew 6:9-13 (KJV)

Fasting

Jesus teaches his followers about fasting, warning against doing it for show or to gain human praise. Jesus emphasizes the importance of sincerity and humility, instructing them to keep their fasting private, without seeking attention from others. He also teaches that God, who sees what is done in secret, will reward those who fast with a genuine heart.

Treasures in Heaven

Jesus teaches his followers to prioritize heavenly treasures over earthly possessions, warning against divided loyalty between God and wealth. He emphasizes that one's heart follows their treasure, and that true devotion to God requires choosing Him over materialism. "You cannot serve both God and money." -Matthew 6:24.

Do Not Worry

Jesus urges his followers not to worry about their material needs, but to trust in God's provision. Jesus reassures them that God cares for them and will provide for their needs, just as He does for the rest of creation. Jesus emphasizes the importance of seeking God's kingdom and righteousness as the top priority, rather than being consumed by worldly concerns.

Judging Others - Chapter 7

"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you'll be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured." -Matthew 7:1-2. Jesus teaches his followers not to judge others hypocritically, but to first address their own shortcomings before helping others. "How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?" -Matthew 7:4.

Ask, Seek, Knock

Jesus encourages his followers to ask, seek, and knock in prayer, promising that those who seek will find, those who ask will receive, and those who knock will have doors opened for them. Jesus then says you should treat others how you want to be treated which is similarly echoed in the Old Testament in places like Leviticus 19:18 or Proverbs 24:17.

The Narrow And Wide Gates

Jesus warns the disciples that the gate to salvation and life is narrow but the path to destruction is broad, suggesting that there will be few to enter heaven and many who do not.

True and False Prophets

"A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit." -Matthew 7:18. Jesus cautions his followers about false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep, but inwardly are ravenous wolves. Jesus instructs them to discern false prophets by their fruits, emphasizing that a good tree produces good fruit, while a bad tree produces bad fruit.

True and False Disciples

Jesus teaches his followers that not everyone who claims to know Him will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of the Father.

The Wise And Foolish Builders

Jesus concludes the Sermon on the Mount with the parable of the wise and foolish builders. Jesus teaches that those who hear His words and put them into practice are like a wise builder who builds on a solid foundation, while those who do not are like a foolish builder whose house crumbles in times of testing.

Jesus Heals A Man With Leprosy - Chapter 8

A leper approached Jesus, asking to be made clean. Jesus, moved with compassion, touched him and declared him clean.

The Faith Of The Centurion

A Roman centurion approached Jesus, seeking healing for his paralyzed servant. Jesus offered to come, but the centurion expressed his faith, saying a word would be enough. Jesus marveled at the centurion's faith and granted his request, healing the servant instantly.

Jesus Heals Many

Jesus healed Peter's mother-in-law from a fever and later healed many others who were sick or demon-possessed, fulfilling prophecies from Isaiah 53:4.

The Cost Of Following Jesus

Jesus warns a would-be follower that following him requires sacrifice, including not having a place to lay his head. Another disciple asks to bury his father first to which Jesus replies "Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead." -Matthew 8:22.

Jesus Calms The Storm

While crossing a lake, a storm created waves that swept over the boat Jesus and his followers were in. His followers woke him up and asked for him to save them. "He replied, 'You of little faith, why are you so afraid?'" -Matthew 8:26 and proceeded to stop the storm.

Jesus Restores Two Demon-Possessed Men

Jesus encountered two demon-possessed men who were violent and lived among tombs in the region of Gadarenes. The demons recognized Jesus as the Son of God and begged Him not to torment them before their time. Jesus cast the demons out of the men and into a herd of pigs, causing the pigs to run into the sea and drown. The people of the region asked Jesus to leave their region. While the Bible does not describe why the people asked Jesus to leave it was likely out of fear due to him causing the pigs to drown or due to the financial loss due to the pigs dying since they were tending the pigs.

Jesus Forgives And Heals A Paralyzed Man - Chapter 9

A paralytic man was brought to Jesus in Capernaum. Jesus, seeing their faith, forgave the man's sins, which teachers of the law said was blasphemous. To demonstrate His authority, Jesus healed the man, and the people marveled at His power to forgive sins, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies that the Messiah would have the power to forgive sins (Isaiah 43:25, Psalm 103:3).

The Calling Of Matthew

Jesus called Matthew, a tax collector, to follow Him, and Matthew responded. Jesus then had dinner with tax collectors and sinners, which caused the Pharisees to question Him since tax collectors were considered sinners and corrupt. Jesus responded by saying "I desire mercy, not sacrifice" -Matthew 9:13 which was a reference to the Old Testament verse Hosea 6:6.

Jesus Questioned About Fasting

Jesus was questioned by the disciples of John the Baptist about why His disciples did not fast like the disciples of John and the Pharisees. Jesus replied with the metaphor of the bridegroom, explaining that as long as He, the bridegroom, was with them, His disciples did not need to fast. Jesus compares himself to the bridegroom to symbolize the commitment involved in a marriage that a bridegroom would have to the bride. He further illustrated this with the example of new wine and old wineskins, stating that new wine must be put into new wineskins to avoid bursting the old ones. This highlights the newness and transformative nature of Jesus' teachings, and how they may not conform to the traditional practices of fasting and religious observances in the Old Testament or as prescribed by the Pharisees.

Jesus Raises A Dead Girl And Heals A Sick Woman

A ruler asked Jesus to heal his daughter who had died, and on the way, a woman who had been bleeding for 12 years touched Jesus' garment and was healed due to her faith. Jesus raised the girl from the dead, and news of the miracle spread.

Jesus Heals The Blind And The Mute

Two blind men approached Jesus, calling Him the Son of David and asking for mercy. Jesus touched their eyes and healed them, telling them to keep it a secret. However, they spread the news throughout the region. Jesus then cast out a demon from a man who was mute, and the crowd marveled at the miraculous healings, but the Pharisees accused Jesus of casting out demons by the power of the prince of demons.

The Workers Are Few

Jesus preached the good news and healed the sick with compassion. He compassionately looked at the people as lost sheep and instructed His disciples to pray for more workers, saying, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." -Matthew 9:37-38, highlighting the need for more laborers to spread the message of the kingdom of God.

Jesus Sends Out The Twelve- Chapter 10

"Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness." -Matthew 10:1. The twelve disciples were Simon (who is later called Peter) and his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew; Thomas, Matthew, James, Thaddaeus, Simon, and Judas (who later betrays Jesus). Jesus instructs the twelve not to go among the Gentiles or entire the town of the Samaritans but rather go to Isreal. Jesus also instructs them to proclaim "The kingdom of heaven has come near" and "heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give." -Matthew 10:8. Jesus prepares the twelve for the rejection they may face and encourages them to persevere, assuring them of God's care and protection. Jesus emphasizes the value of their work and the rewards awaiting them in heaven. Additionally, He teaches about the importance of receiving and supporting His messengers, and the consequences of accepting or rejecting them. Jesus concludes His instructions by stressing the importance of putting Him above all other relationships and possessions, and the significance of following Him wholeheartedly.

Jesus and John The Baptist- Chapter 11

After John the Baptist sent his disciples to ask Jesus if he was the Messiah, Jesus told them to report back what they had seen and heard - the blind could see, the lame could walk, and the good news was being preached to the poor. Jesus then praised John the Baptist, calling him a prophet and saying that no one born of women was greater than him, but "yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he." -Matthew 11:11. This means that even the lowest-ranking follower of Jesus has access to the fullness of God's kingdom, whereas John the Baptist was still under the Old Testament era and had not yet experienced the fullness of what Jesus would accomplish. Jesus then compared John the Baptist to "the Elijah who was to come," -Matthew 11:14 referring to the Old Testament prophecy in Malachi 4:5-6 that Elijah would return before the coming of the Messiah.

Woe On Unrepentant Towns

Jesus rebuked the cities where He had done most of His miracles because they did not repent. Jesus mentioned Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum and said that if the same miracles had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago. Jesus concluded by saying that the judgment would be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for these cities. These verses emphasize the importance of repentance and turning away from sin.

The Father Revealed In The Son

Jesus thanks God for revealing the truth of salvation to the simple rather than to the wise and learned, and invites all who are weary and burdened to come to Him for rest. Jesus assures them that His yoke is easy and His burden is light which means that following Jesus and His teachings is not a heavy or burdensome task, but rather an invitation to find peace and rest for one's soul. The phrase "yoke" was a common metaphor used to refer to the teachings and commandments of a religious teacher, and Jesus is saying that His teachings are not oppressive or difficult, but rather accessible and freeing.

Jesus Is Lord Of The Sabbath - Chapter 12

For background context, the Sabbath is a holy day of rest that is observed on the seventh day of the week, which is typically observed on Sunday. For Christians, the Sabbath is a time to focus on spiritual rest, worship, and reflection. In the Old Testament, the Jews were commanded to keep the Sabbath day holy and were not allowed to engage in any work on that day. This included any kind of labor or business activity, such as plowing, harvesting, cooking, and buying and selling goods.

Jesus and his disciples are walking through a grain field on the Sabbath day, and the disciples begin to pick and eat the grain. The Pharisees accuse them of breaking the Sabbath law, but Jesus defends them, stating that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. He then goes into a synagogue where a man with a withered hand is present, and the Pharisees ask Jesus if it is lawful to heal on the Sabbath. Jesus responds with a question, asking if it is lawful to do good or evil on the Sabbath. Jesus then heals the man's hand, angering the Pharisees who begin to plot against Jesus. This passage shows the conflict between Jesus and the Pharisees regarding the interpretation of the Sabbath law, and how Jesus prioritized the needs and well-being of people over strict adherence to the law. To further clarify, the Pharisees saw healing as a form of work, which is why they questioned Jesus about healing during the Sabbath.

God's Chosen Servant

Jesus withdrew from the Pharisees who were plotting against Him and continued to heal many people, thus fulfilling what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah in Isaiah 42:1-4. This prophecy highlights Jesus as the chosen servant of God who will bring justice and hope to all people, not just the Jews.

Jesus And Beelzebul

Jesus healed a demon-possessed man who was blind and mute, causing the crowds to wonder if he was the Son of David. The Pharisees, however, accused him of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons. Jesus responded by explaining that a house divided against itself cannot stand and that it is by the Spirit of God that he casts out demons. Jesus warned the Pharisees about blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, which cannot be forgiven. Jesus stated that a tree is recognized by its fruit, and that good trees bear good fruit while bad trees bear bad fruit. Jesus concluded by saying that the words we speak reveal the condition of our hearts, and that we will be justified or condemned by them on the day of judgment.

The Sign Of Jonah

The Pharisees ask Jesus for a sign to prove that He is the Messiah, but Jesus tells them that only a "wicked and adulterous generation" -Matthew 12:39 seeks a sign. Jesus then compares His generation to a demon-possessed person who has been cleaned but then invites more demons in, making his state worse than before. Jesus warns that those who reject Him and the truth of the Gospel will suffer a worse fate than those who lived in the sinful cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, and that the state of their hearts is more important than outward appearances or words.

Jesus' Mother And Brothers

Jesus' mother and brothers came to see Him, but Jesus used the occasion to teach about who His true family is. Jesus explained that whoever does the will of His Father in heaven is His brother, sister, and mother.

The Parable Of The Sower - Chapter 13

Jesus taught the people in parables, telling them about the sower who scattered seeds in different types of soil, representing different responses to the Word of God. The seeds that fell on good soil produced a bountiful harvest, while the seeds that fell on bad soil were choked by thorns or scorched by the sun. Jesus explained that the seed represents the Word of God and the soil represents people's hearts. Jesus explains to his disciples that those who have more will receive even more, while those who have little will lose even that little they have. Jesus then quotes from the book of Isaiah, saying that some people will hear but not understand, see but not perceive, and have hardened hearts that prevent them from turning to God and being healed. This highlights the importance of having an open and receptive heart to receive God's message. Those who hear the Word and understand it will bear fruit, but those who do not will not.

The Parable Of The Weeds

Jesus told another parable about a farmer who planted wheat, but his enemy came and planted weeds among the wheat. The farmer instructed his servants to let the wheat and weeds grow together until the harvest, when the weeds would be separated from the wheat and burned. This parable teaches that there are evil influences in the world, but God will ultimately separate the righteous from the wicked.

The Parables Of The Mustard Seed And The Yeast

Jesus told another parable about a mustard seed, which is small but grows into a large tree, and yeast, which is small but leavens the whole batch of dough. These parables demonstrate the power of the kingdom of heaven to grow and spread.

The Parable Of The Weeds Explained

Jesus explained the parable of the wheat and weeds to his disciples, saying that the wheat represents the righteous and the weeds represent the wicked. At the end of the age, the angels will separate the two, and the wicked will be thrown into the fiery furnace.

The Parables Of The Hidden Treasure And The Pearl

Jesus told another parable about a man who found a treasure hidden in a field and sold all he had to buy the field. Jesus also told a parable about a merchant who found a valuable pearl and sold everything he had to buy it. These parables show that the kingdom of heaven is of great value and worth sacrificing everything for.

The Parable Of The Net

Jesus told another parable about a net that caught fish of all kinds, good, and bad. The fishermen separated the fish, keeping the good and throwing away the bad. This parable teaches that there will be a final judgment when the righteous and the wicked will be separated.

A Prophet Without Honor

Jesus returned to his hometown, Nazareth, and taught in the synagogue, but the people were skeptical and did not believe he was anything special. Jesus remarked that a prophet is not without honor except in his own town and among his own people. Jesus is saying that people who are familiar with someone from childhood or their own community often have a harder time accepting their authority or accomplishments compared to people who are unfamiliar with them. This statement implies that Jesus knew his message would be better received by those outside of his hometown and that sometimes people need to move beyond their own prejudices or biases to recognize the truth.

John The Baptist Beheaded - Chapter 14

Herod hears about Jesus and believes that he is John the Baptist raised from the dead, due to the miracles Jesus was performing. The passage then recounts the death of John the Baptist, which happened earlier. John was killed by Herod Antipas after John denounced his marriage to his brother's wife.

Jesus Feeds The Five Thousand

After hearing about John's death, Jesus withdraws to a solitary place to mourn. But the crowds follow him there and he ends up healing their sick and feeding them with five loaves of bread and two fish. There were 5,000 men, not counting women and children.

Jesus Walks On The Water

Jesus sends his disciples ahead of him in a boat while he goes up a mountain to pray. In the middle of the night, Jesus walks on the water toward them and the disciples are afraid it might be a ghost. Jesus calls out to the disciples and Peter replied "lord, if it's you, tell me to come to you on the water" and Jesus replies "Come". -Matthew 14:29-29. Peter tries to walk on water too but becomes afraid and starts to sink. Jesus saves him and says "You of little faith, why do you doubt" -Matthew 14:31. After the storm calms Jesus and the disciples reach the other side of the lake and Jesus heals many who are sick.

That Which Defiles - Chapter 15

Pharisees and teachers of the law come to Jesus to ask why his disciples do not follow the tradition of washing their hands before they eat. Jesus responds by rebuking them for prioritizing human traditions over God's commandments. Jesus explains that it is not what goes into a person's mouth that defiles them, but what comes out of their heart. This teaching is significant because it underscores the importance of inner purity and righteousness over external observances.

The Faith Of A Canaanite Woman

A Canaanite woman begs Jesus to heal her demon-possessed daughter. Initially, Jesus ignores her, telling her that he was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel. However, the woman persists, demonstrating her great faith, and Jesus ultimately grants her request, praising her faith and healing her daughter.

Jesus Feeds The Four Thousand

Jesus heals many people who are brought to him, including the blind, lame, mute, and those with various other ailments. Jesus performs these miracles with great compassion, and the people praise God for what he has done. Afterward, Jesus feeds a crowd of four thousand people with just seven loaves of bread and a few fish.

The Transfiguration - Chapter 17

Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain and is transfigured before them. Jesus's face shines like the sun and his clothes become as white as light. Moses and Elijah appear. Peter offers to make three shelters for them, but a voice from a cloud says, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!" -Matthew 17:5. The disciples are afraid and Jesus tells them not to be afraid. As they come down the mountain, Jesus instructs them not to tell anyone what they have seen until after he has risen from the dead. The disciples ask Jesus why the teachers of the law say that Elijah must come first, and Jesus tells them that Elijah has already come in the form of John the Baptist, but they did not recognize him.

In the Old Testament, the prophet Malachi prophesied that God would send Elijah before the coming of the Messiah (Malachi 4:5-6). Many Jews believed that Elijah would literally return from heaven to fulfill this prophecy. In the New Testament, Jesus identifies John the Baptist as the fulfillment of the prophecy that Elijah would come before the Messiah (Matthew 11:14, Mark 9:13). This identification of John as Elijah is not meant to be taken literally, but rather as a symbolic fulfillment of the prophecy. John was the one who prepared the way for Jesus, just as Elijah was to prepare the way for the Messiah.

.Jesus Heals A Demon-Possessed Boy

a man brings his son to Jesus, who is possessed by a demon and suffers from seizures. Jesus rebukes the demon, and the boy is healed. When the disciples ask why they couldn't cast out the demon, Jesus tells them it was because of their lack of faith. He says that even a small amount of faith can move mountains.

Jesus Predicts His Death A Second Time

Jesus predicts his own death and resurrection for the second time, and the disciples are filled with grief at the thought of losing their teacher.

The Temple Tax

Peter is approached by collectors of the temple tax, and he asks Jesus if they should pay it. Jesus tells him to go fishing and says that the first fish he catches will have a coin in its mouth that will be enough to pay the tax for both of them. Jesus paid the temple tax even though he was not required to, as he was the Son of God and the temple was his Father's house. When Jesus says "Then the children are exempt," he is referring to himself and his disciples as the children of God, and therefore not obligated to pay the temple tax. However, he paid the tax to avoid causing offense and to demonstrate his respect for the temple.

The Greatest In The Kingdom Of Heaven - Chapter 18

Jesus' disciples ask him who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Jesus responds by saying that unless they become like little children, they will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Jesus then says that whoever humbles themselves like a child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

Causing To Stumble

Jesus warns his disciples about causing others to sin. Jesus says that it would be better for someone to have a millstone tied around their neck and be thrown into the sea than to cause one of his little ones to stumble. Jesus also talks about the importance of cutting off anything that causes us to sin, even if it is as important to us as a hand or a foot.

The Parable Of The Wandering Sheep

Jesus talks about the parable of the lost sheep. Jesus says that if a man has 100 sheep and one of them wanders off, he will leave the 99 to go and search for the one that is lost. And when he finds it, he rejoices more over the one than over the 99 that did not wander off. Jesus then says that in the same way, the Father in heaven does not want any of his little ones to perish.

Dealing With Sin In The Church

Jesus teaches his disciples how to handle disputes within the church. Jesus says that if someone sins and/or sins against you, you should first confront them privately. If they do not listen, then bring two or three witnesses. If they still do not listen, bring it before the church. "If they still refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector." -Matthew 18:17. Jesus then says that whatever is bound on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever is loosed on earth will be loosed in heaven.

Treating someone in sin like a pagan or tax collector means that the person should be regarded as an outsider or someone who is not part of the community. In Jesus' time, pagans and tax collectors were considered social outcasts by many Jews. Therefore, this instruction implies that the person should be excluded from the community until they repent and reconcile with those they have wronged. However, it's important to note that Jesus himself frequently interacted with pagans and tax collectors, showing them love and compassion. So the instruction to treat someone as a pagan or tax collector should not be seen as a call for hostility or mistreatment, but rather a call to maintain healthy boundaries and work towards reconciliation.

The Parable Of The Unmerciful Servant

Peter asks Jesus how many times he should forgive someone who sins against him. Jesus responds by saying that he should forgive not just seven times, but seventy times seven. Jesus then tells a parable about a king (or master) who forgave his servant a large debt, but the servant refused to forgive a smaller debt owed to him by another servant. The king became angry and handed the servant over to be tortured until he could pay back what he owed. Jesus ends the parable by saying that his heavenly Father will do the same to anyone who does not forgive their brother or sister from their heart.

The Demand For A Sign - Chapter 16

The Pharisees and Sadducees ask Jesus for a sign from heaven, but Jesus rebukes them for being able to interpret the weather but not the signs of the times. Jesus calls them a wicked and adulterous generation and says no sign will be given except the sign of Jonah. The sign of Jonah is a reference to the Old Testament book of Jonah. The prophet Jonah was swallowed by a large fish for three days and three nights. In Matthew 16:1-4, the Pharisees and Sadducees ask Jesus for a sign from heaven to prove his authority, and Jesus responds by saying that no sign will be given except the sign of Jonah. Jesus is referring to his own impending death and resurrection, which will parallel Jonah's three days in the belly of the fish. The sign of Jonah emphasizes that Jesus is the Messiah who will die and rise again, just as Jonah was delivered from the fish's belly after three days.

The Yeast Of The Pharisees And Sadducees

Jesus warns his disciples to beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees, which he explains are their teachings and hypocrisy. The disciples then realize that Jesus is not talking about bread but about the teachings of the religious leaders.

Peter Declares That Jesus Is The Messiah

Jesus asks his disciples who people say the Son of Man is. The disciples reply with various answers, but when Jesus asks them directly who they say he is, Simon Peter answers, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." -Matthew 16:16. Jesus commends Peter, saying that this was revealed to him by God, and then changes Simon's name to Peter, which means "rock." Jesus goes on to say, "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." -Matthew 16:18-19. These verses signify the establishment of Peter as the leader of the Church and the authority given to him to make decisions about Church doctrine and teachings. The phrase "whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven" means that Peter has the power to make decisions on behalf of the Church that will be honored in heaven. It signifies the authority of the Church to make decisions about what is right and wrong based on the teachings of Jesus.

Jesus Predicts His Death

Jesus tells his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem, suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, but he will rise again on the third day. Peter objects and says this should never happen, but Jesus rebukes him and says he is setting his mind on human things and not God's things. Jesus then tells his disciples that if they want to follow him, they must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow him.

Divorce - Chapter 19

Jesus is questioned by the Pharisees about divorce. Jesus explains that divorce was allowed in the past because of the hardness of people's hearts, but it was not part of God's original plan for marriage. Jesus states that anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery, except in the case of sexual immorality.

Jesus responds to his disciples' astonishment over his teaching on divorce, saying that not everyone can accept this teaching, but only those to whom it is given. Jesus speaks of three groups of people who are not suited for marriage: those who are born eunuchs, those who are made eunuchs by others, and those who choose to live as eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Jesus uses the term "eunuch" to refer to those who are physically incapable of engaging in sexual relations, as well as those who choose to abstain from sex for religious reasons.

The Little Children And Jesus

People bring their children to Jesus so that he can lay hands on them and pray for them. The disciples try to send the children away, but Jesus rebukes them and says, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." -Matthew 19:14.

The Rich And The Kingdom Of God

A rich young man approaches Jesus and asks Him what he must do to have eternal life. Jesus tells him to follow the commandments, but the man insists that he has already done so and asks what else he must do. Jesus tells him to sell all his possessions and give the proceeds to the poor, and then he can come and follow Him. The young man goes away sorrowful because he is very rich. Jesus then tells His disciples that it is difficult for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven, and that it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God. Peter asks what they will receive for leaving everything to follow Jesus, and Jesus replies that they will receive eternal life and will be rewarded in the next life. Jesus says "many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first." -Matthew 19:30. Jesus' statement emphasizes the idea that those who are considered great or important in this world may not necessarily be viewed the same way in the eyes of God.

The Parable Of The Workers In The Vineyard - Chapter 20

Jesus tells a parable about workers in a vineyard who were hired at different times of the day but all received the same wage at the end of the day. This parable teaches about the kingdom of heaven and how God is gracious and generous in His reward for those who serve Him, regardless of how long they have been serving.

Jesus Predicts His Death A Third Time

Jesus tells His disciples that He will be betrayed, condemned, and handed over to the Gentiles to be mocked, flogged, and crucified. Jesus also tells them that on the third day, He will be raised to life. This is a prophetic statement of Jesus' upcoming death and resurrection, as predicted in Hosea 6:2 and other verses in the Old Testament.

A Mother's Request

the mother of James and John asks Jesus if her sons can sit at His right and left in His kingdom. Jesus first responds by saying that right is not his to give as "These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared by my Father." -Matthew 20:23. Jesus also responds by teaching about servant leadership and how the greatest in His kingdom are those who serve others. Jesus also reminds them that He did not come to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.

Two Blind Men Receive Sight

Jesus heals two blind men who were sitting by the road. They called out to Him, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!" The title of "Son of David" is a Messianic title, showing that they recognized Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah. Jesus had compassion on them and healed them, showing His power and mercy as the Son of God.

Jesus Comes To Jerusalem As King - Chapter 21

Jesus and his disciples approach Jerusalem and stop at the Mount of Olives, where Jesus sends two of his disciples to fetch a donkey and a colt which fulfills the Old Testament prophecy noted in Zechariah 9:9. Jesus rides on the colt into Jerusalem, while the crowds spread their cloaks on the road and shout, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!" This marks the beginning of the Holy Week leading up to Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection.

Jesus At The Temple

Jesus enters the temple in Jerusalem and drives out the money changers and merchants who were conducting business in the temple courtyard. Jesus overturns their tables and accuses them of turning the temple, a house of prayer, into a den of thieves. After this, the blind and the lame come to Jesus in the temple and he heals them, prompting the children in the temple to shout "Hosanna to the Son of David!" The chief priests and scribes are indignant at the scene, but Jesus defends the children's praise and quotes from Psalm 8:2, saying "From the lips of children and infants you, Lord, have called forth your praise."

Jesus Curses A Fig Tree

Jesus curses a fig tree that had no fruit, and it withers away immediately. This incident teaches a lesson on faith and prayer. Jesus tells His disciples that if they have faith and do not doubt, they can not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also move mountains with their words. It also shows that God desires His people to bear fruit in their lives and be productive in their faith. The fig tree, which represents a fruitless and unproductive life, is a reminder of the consequence of living without faith and failing to produce good works.

The Authority Of Jesus Questioned

Jesus goes to the temple and is approached by the chief priests and elders, who ask Him by what authority He performs miracles and teaches the people. Jesus asks them a question about John the Baptist and his baptism, which the chief priests and elders cannot answer. Jesus then tells them that if they cannot answer His question, He will not tell them by what authority He does His works.

The Parable Of The Two Sons

Jesus tells a parable to the chief priests and elders about a man who had two sons. The man asked his first son to go work in the vineyard and the son verbally refused, but later went on to work. The man asked his second son to do the same and the second son agreed but didn't work. Jesus then asks the religious leaders which of the two sons did what the father wanted, and they said the first son. Jesus tells them that tax collectors and prostitutes will enter the kingdom of God before them because they repented and believed in John the Baptist's message, while the religious leaders did not. This parable emphasizes the importance of actions over words and challenges the religious leaders' self-righteousness.

The Parable Of The Tenants

Jesus tells a parable of a landowner who planted a vineyard and leased it out to tenant farmers. When the owner sends his servants to collect the harvest, the tenants beat and kill them. The landowner sends more servants, but they are met with the same fate. Finally, the landowner sends his son, thinking that the tenants will respect him, but instead, they kill him as well. Jesus then asks the crowd what they think the landowner will do to the tenants when he returns. The crowd responds that the landowner will put the tenants to a miserable death and lease the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the produce at harvest time. Jesus concludes the parable by stating that the kingdom of God will be taken away from the religious leaders who have rejected Him and given to those who will produce fruit for the kingdom. The religious leaders understood that the parable was directed at them and they sought to arrest Jesus, but they were afraid of the crowd who believed that He was a prophet.

The Parable Of The Wedding Banquet - Chapter 22

Jesus tells a parable about a king who throws a wedding banquet for his son. The king sends out his servants to invite people to the wedding feast, but they refuse to come. The king then sends out more servants to gather anyone they can find to come to the feast, and the hall is filled with guests. When the king arrives, he notices a man who is not wearing wedding clothes, and he has him thrown out into the darkness. This parable illustrates that although God invites all people to come to His kingdom, only those who have been clothed in the righteousness of Christ will be welcomed in. The man without the wedding clothes represents those who reject the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and will not be able to enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Paying The Imperial Tax To Caesar

The Pharisees attempt to trap Jesus by asking him whether it is lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not. Jesus' response of "give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's" astounds them and leaves them speechless. Jesus was able to avoid the trap by giving a wise answer that highlighted the separation of earthly and heavenly authority.

Marriage At The Resurrection

The Sadducees, who were a Jewish sect that did not believe in resurrection or an afterlife, ask Jesus a question to test Him. They present a scenario of a woman who was married to seven brothers, all of whom died, and they ask whose wife she would be in the resurrection. Jesus responds by stating that in the resurrection, people will not marry or be given in marriage, but will be like angels in heaven. Jesus then uses the Old Testament to prove the resurrection, reminding the Sadducees of God's statement to Moses in the burning bush that He is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who have already died. Jesus explains that God is not the God of the dead but of the living, indicating that Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are alive in the resurrection. The Sadducees are unable to respond to Jesus' answer and are amazed by His wisdom.

The Greatest Commandment

A Pharisee asked Jesus a question to test him: "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus replied, "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

Whose Son Is The Messiah?

Jesus asks the Pharisees a question concerning the identity of the Messiah. Jesus refers to a prophecy in Psalm 110:1 where David calls the Messiah "Lord," indicating that the Messiah is greater than David. Jesus asks them how it is possible for the Messiah to be both David's son and David's Lord. The Pharisees are unable to answer the question, and Jesus concludes by warning them to be wary of the scribes and their hypocritical ways.

A Warning Against Hypocrisy - Chapter 23

Jesus rebukes the scribes and Pharisees, who are hypocritical and self-righteous. Jesus warns His followers not to follow their example, as they preach the law but do not practice it themselves. Jesus tells them that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Jesus also emphasizes the importance of servant leadership, instructing His disciples to serve others rather than seeking to be served.

Seven Woes On The Teachers Of The Law And The Pharisees

Jesus accuses the Pharisees of being hypocrites who block people from entering the kingdom of heaven.
Jesus condemns the Pharisees for making their converts even more corrupt than themselves.
Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for their misguided priorities, where they consider material possessions more valuable than the sacredness of the temple.
Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their obsession with minor details of the law, while ignoring the more important matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
Jesus exposes the Pharisees' hypocrisy, where they appear righteous on the outside but are corrupt on the inside.
Jesus compares the Pharisees to whitewashed tombs, where they present a clean and righteous exterior but are unclean and corrupt on the inside.
Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for their hypocrisy in honoring the prophets of the past while rejecting and even killing the prophets of the present.

The Destruction Of The Temple And Signs Of The End Times - Chapter 24

Jesus is asked by His disciples about the signs of His coming and the end of the age. Jesus responds by telling them about the signs of the end times, including false messiahs, wars and rumors of wars, natural disasters, and persecution of believers. Jesus warns them not to be deceived by false prophets or false signs, and to remain steadfast in their faith until the end. Jesus also speaks about the coming of the Son of Man, and how it will be a time of great distress and tribulation. Jesus advises His disciples to be watchful, alert, and ready for His return at any moment. Jesus concludes by telling them that heaven and earth will pass away, but His words will never pass away.

The Day And Hour Unknown

Jesus compares his return to the days of Noah when people were caught off guard and unprepared for the flood. Jesus warns his followers to be ready for his return because it will happen suddenly and unexpectedly. Jesus uses the parable of the faithful and wicked servants to emphasize the importance of being ready at all times. The faithful servant is the one who is vigilant and prepared for his master's return while the wicked servant is the one who is negligent and believes his master is delaying his return. The wicked servant is then punished severely while the faithful servant is rewarded. The message of the parable is clear: believers must always be prepared for the coming of Christ because it will happen suddenly, and they will not know the day or the hour of his arrival.

The Parable Of The Ten Virgins - Chapter 25

Jesus shares the parable of the ten virgins, in which ten bridesmaids take their lamps to meet the bridegroom. Five of them are wise and take extra oil, while the other five are foolish and do not. The bridegroom is delayed, and all ten of the bridesmaids fall asleep. When the bridegroom finally arrives, the five foolish bridesmaids realize that they do not have enough oil to keep their lamps burning and ask the wise bridesmaids for some. The wise bridesmaids refuse, telling them to go buy their own. While they are out buying oil, the bridegroom arrives, and the wise bridesmaids go into the wedding banquet with him, while the foolish ones are shut out. Jesus concludes the parable by saying, "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour."

The Parable Of The Bags Of Gold

Jesus tells a parable about the bags of money in which a man entrusts his wealth to three of his servants before going away on a journey. The first servant receives five bags of money, the second receives two, and the third receives one, each according to their ability. The first two servants use their talents wisely and earn five and two more gold bags respectively, while the third servant buries his gold in fear of losing it. When the master returns, he praises the first two servants and rewards them with greater responsibilities, but condemns the third servant for his inactivity and lack of faithfulness, taking away his talent and giving it to the servant with ten talents.

The Sheep And The Goats

Jesus speaks about the final judgment when the Son of Man comes in his glory with all the angels. Jesus will separate the people into two groups, the sheep on his right and the goats on his left, based on how they have treated others. Jesus will say to the righteous on his right that they gave him food when he was hungry, drink when he was thirsty, clothes when he was naked, and visited him when he was sick or in prison. They will reply that they did not realize they were serving him, and Jesus will say that whatever they did for one of the least of his brothers and sisters, they did for him. Then he will turn to the ones on his left, the goats, and say that they did not feed him when he was hungry, give him drink when he was thirsty, clothe him when he was naked, or visit him when he was sick or in prison. They will also ask when they failed to do so, and Jesus will say that whatever they did not do for one of the least of his brothers and sisters, they did not do for him.

The Plot Against Jesus - Chapter 26

Jesus predicts His upcoming crucifixion, and the chief priests and elders plot to arrest Him. This is a fulfillment of the prophecy in Psalms 2:2, "The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the LORD and against his anointed."

Jesus Anointed At Bethany

A woman anoints Jesus with expensive oil, and He commends her for preparing Him for burial. Jesus prophesies that wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.

Judas Agrees To Betray Jesus

Judas agrees to betray Jesus to the chief priests for thirty pieces of silver, fulfilling the prophecy in Zechariah 11:12-13, "And the LORD said to me, 'Throw it to the potter' - the handsome price at which they valued me! So I took the thirty pieces of silver and thew them to the potter at the house of the LORD."

The Last Supper

Jesus and his disciples prepare to celebrate the Passover meal. Jesus tells two of his disciples to go into the city and find a man carrying a jar of water, and to follow him to the house where he enters. The disciples follow Jesus' instructions, and the Passover meal begins. During the meal, Jesus announced that one of his disciples would betray him. The disciples were distressed and each one asked Jesus if they were the one. Jesus says "The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born." - Matthew 26:24. Jesus' statement indicates the severity of Judas' actions in betraying him. Jesus, as the Son of Man, recognizes that his betrayal and eventual crucifixion is part of God's plan and has been foretold in scripture. However, Jesus also acknowledges the immense suffering and condemnation that will come upon the one who betrays him. The statement "It would have been better for that man if he had not been born" suggests that Judas' fate will be so terrible that it would have been preferable for him not to have been born at all.

After. Jesus takes the bread, blesses it, breaks it, and gives it to his disciples, saying, "Take, eat; this is my body." Then he takes the cup, gives thanks, and gives it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins." Jesus tells his disciples that he will not drink of the fruit of the vine until he drinks it anew with them in his Father's kingdom.

Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial

Jesus prophesies that all His disciples will fall away on account of Him, but Peter insists he will never disown Jesus. Jesus tells him that before the rooster crows, he will deny Him three times. The reference to the "rooster crows" is a prediction made by Jesus to Peter regarding his imminent denial of Jesus. While Peter was confident in his strength and loyalty, Jesus knew that Peter's denial was inevitable.

Gethsemane

Jesus goes with His disciples to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. Jesus tells them to keep watch while He prays, but they fall asleep. Jesus prays to His Father, asking if it is possible for the cup to be taken away from Him, yet not as He wills, but as God wills. Jesus returns to the disciples and finds them sleeping again, telling them to keep watch and pray so they will not fall into temptation. Jesus goes away a second time to pray, saying "My father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may you will be done." -Matthew 26:42. When Jesus returns, He finds them asleep once more, and He wakes them up, telling them that His betrayer is approaching.

In this summary, the cup is used as a prophetic symbol. Typically when the Bible references a cup, it refers at least to suffering, and often to the wrath of God. In this case, the cup is a cup of suffering because it is the wrath of God for the sins of the world. By expressing his desire to have the cup taken from him, Jesus is expressing his reluctance to undergo the upcoming suffering and sacrifice necessary for the fulfillment of these promises but ultimately states that he wants God's will to be done.

Jesus Arrested

Judas arrives with a large crowd armed with swords and clubs to arrest Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane. Jesus questions why they have come to arrest him as if he is a criminal and reminds them that he had been with them every day teaching in the temple. Jesus willingly submits to arrest, allowing himself to be taken away. This event fulfills the prophecy of the suffering servant in Isaiah 53:7 "He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth."

Jesus Before The Sanhedrin

Jesus is taken to the house of the high priest Caiaphas, where the scribes and elders have gathered to plot against him. False witnesses come forward to testify against Jesus, but their testimonies are inconsistent. Finally, Caiaphas asks Jesus if he is the Messiah and Jesus responds by saying "You have said so" and "But I say to all of you: From now on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven." -Matthew 26:64. Caiaphas then accuses Jesus of blasphemy and asks the crowd for their verdict. They all declare that Jesus deserves to die. This scene fulfills the prophecy in Isaiah 53:3, which states that the Messiah would be despised and rejected by men.

Peter Disowns Jesus

Peter denies Jesus three times, just as Jesus had predicted earlier. While Jesus is being questioned by the high priest and the Sanhedrin, Peter waits outside in the courtyard. Three times, people recognize Peter as a disciple of Jesus and accuse him of being one of Jesus' followers. Each time, Peter denies it. After the third denial, the rooster crows, just as Jesus had prophesied. Peter then remembers what Jesus had told him and goes out and weeps bitterly.

Judas Hangs Himself - Chapter 27

Judas, filled with remorse, tries to return the thirty pieces of silver he was given for betraying Jesus to the chief priests and elders. They refuse to take the money back, so Judas throws the money into the temple and goes out and hangs himself. The chief priests, with the money Judas threw at them, buy a field to be used as a burial place for foreigners - fulfilling the prophecy in Zechariah 11:12-13 and Jeremiah 19:1-13.

Jesus Before Pilate

Jesus is brought before Pilate, the Roman governor, who questions him about the accusations made against him. Despite Pilate finding no fault in Jesus, the crowd demands that he be crucified. To appease the crowd, Pilate offers to release one prisoner, as was the custom during the Passover festival, so he gives them the choice between Jesus and Barabbas, a notorious criminal. The crowd, incited by the chief priests and elders, chooses to release Barabbas and condemn Jesus to death. Pilate publicly washes his hands, claiming innocence of Jesus' blood, and orders Jesus to be flogged and crucified.

The Soldiers Mock Jesus

Jesus is taken to the governor's palace where the soldiers mock him, strip him, put a scarlet robe on him, a crown of thorns on his head, and a reed in his hand. They then spit on him and strike him before leading him away to be crucified. The soldiers put a scarlet robe, a crown of thorns, and a staff in Jesus' hand to mock him as a king because each item was historically associated with royalty.

The Crucifixion Of Jesus

As Jesus carried his cross to Golgotha, Simon of Cyrene was forced by the Roman soldiers to help him. When they arrived at the place of crucifixion, they offered Jesus wine mixed with gall, but he refused it. The soldiers crucified him along with two criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Passersby and the chief priests, scribes, and elders mocked Jesus, saying "He saved others, but he can't save himself! He's the king of Israel! Let him come down from the cross now, and we will believe in him. He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, 'I am Son of God.'" -Matthew 27:42-43. Even the robbers who were crucified with him joined in the mocking.

The Death Of Jesus

Darkness covers the land for three hours, from noon until three in the afternoon. Jesus cries out, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" and then utters a final cry and dies. At that moment, the curtain of the temple is torn in two from top to bottom, and the earth shakes, splitting rocks. Tombs in the vicinity of Jerusalem were opened, and the bodies of many holy people were raised from the dead. The centurion and those guarding Jesus are terrified and declare that he was indeed the Son of God. There were also many women watching from a distance, including Mary Magdalene, the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee's sons.

The Burial Of Jesus

Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy man and follower of Jesus, asked Pilate for permission to bury Jesus in his own tomb. Joseph took Jesus' body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, placed it in the tomb, and rolled a big stone in front of the entrance.

The Guard At The Tomb

The chief priests and Pharisees ask Pilate to post guards at Jesus' tomb, remembering Jesus' prophecy that he would rise again on the third day. Pilate grants their request, and the tomb is sealed and guarded.

Jesus Has Risen - Chapter 28

On the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and another Mary went to the tomb to anoint Jesus' body with spices. However, they found the tomb open and empty, and an angel appeared, telling them that Jesus had risen from the dead. The angel instructed them to go and tell the disciples that Jesus is going ahead of them to Galilee, and as they were leaving, they saw Jesus himself, who confirmed the angel's message and told them to spread the news.

The Guards' Report

The chief priests and elders bribe the guards who were guarding the tomb of Jesus, instructing them to spread the false story that the disciples had stolen Jesus' body while they slept. The guards took the money and did as they were told, spreading the story throughout the land.

The Great Commission

Jesus appears to His eleven disciples in Galilee after His resurrection. Jesus instructs the disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." -Matthew 28:19-20.