Bethlehem is the birthplace of Jesus. The Church of the Nativity is exactly where Christ was born. See and learn all about it. Manager's Square, Manger, Star, Wise Men, Mary and Joseph, Shepherds, Rachel’s Tomb, Shepherds' Fields, Herodian Fortress, and more. Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem Photo Gallery Places of Interest Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem Introduction Welcome to the Church of the Nativity. Many significant events from the Bible took place here. These are the highlights. 1. The location of Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity is on top of Tel Bethlehem. Under this area is ancient Bethlehem. 2. Bethlehem is where King David lived before becoming King of Israel. 3. This is also where Jesus was born, and the Word became flesh. So, we will see and experience the very place where Jesus was born. 4. We'll see evidence of the churches built over this site to commemorate this monumental event. 5. We'll explore a cave complex where Jerome lived while translating the Bible from Hebrew and Greek to Latin, the language of the Roman Empire. This cave complex is connected to the cave where Jesus is believed to have been born. 6. This site is not disputed as the authentic site, and to think of what happened here is beyond our ability to comprehend. Location 1. The Church of the Nativity is located in Bethlehem, about 6 miles (9 km) south of Jerusalem. 2. It is right beside Manger Square and Manger Street. 3. It is located on the upper mountain plateau route that connects the southern Negev to the upper Galilee region. On this route were cities from the south, like Beersheba, Hebron, Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Bethel, Shiloh, and Shechem, to the north. It was a highly traveled route. 4. Today, Bethlehem is in the West Bank but is very safe. Thousands of tourists visit its Christian sites each month with no issues whatsoever. Historical Background of Ancient Bethlehem 1. Bethlehem means House of Bread. 2. It had a population of between 500 and 1,000 people in the time of Jesus. 3 . The area of Manger Square, Church of the Nativity, and the area around them actually sit upon a tel. This is called Tel Bethlehem and is where the original town was located. 4. Many of the homes consisted of caves and structures. Often, a house would have both a cave below it and a home above or beside it. 5. The caves would be used for living quarters and livestock keeping, as they were cool in the summer and warm in the winter. 6. Jewish, secular, and Christian scholars and archaeologists all agree that this is the birthplace of Jesus. There is no dispute that this is the authentic site. Historical Background of the Church of the Nativity Period of Abraham - 2050 BC Pottery discovered under the church dates to the time of Abraham. Period of David - 1000 BC Pottery discovered under the church dates to the time of David. Period of Christ's Birth - 4 BC The Bible attests to Jesus' birth in Bethlehem. According to archaeological evidence and eyewitness accounts, Jesus was born in a cave where animals were kept, so He was placed in a manger after birth. Under the Church of the Nativity lies a cave complex where Jesus was born. Period After Christ's Return to Heaven - 29 BC Shortly after Christ’s ascension to heaven, worshipers began marking key places associated with Jesus's life and ministry. Christ’s birthplace was marked, and worshipers began to protect and commemorate the site. Period of Roman Emperor Hadrian - 135 AD In 135 AD, Hadrian destroyed the venerated site Christians had protected. Hadrian erected a shrine to Adonis, the Greek god of beauty and desire, on top of Christ's birthplace. He desecrated many holy sites throughout Israel and built shrines to false gods on top of them. One of which is Golgotha, where the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is today. There, he built a temple to Jupiter and Venus. He renamed Jerusalem to Aelia Capitolina and renamed Israel to Palestine in an attempt to erase any Jewish connection to the Holy Land. Period of Early Church Fathers - 100 to 339 AD Evidence that this was Jesus's birthplace also surfaced in the writings of Justin Martyr around 160 AD. Later, Origen and Eusebius affirmed this in the 3rd century. Period of Roman Emperor Constantine - 339 AD Helena, the mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine, received Christ as her Savior and came to the Holy Land to build churches on key Christian sites. Constantine and his mother, Helena, commissioned the construction of the Church of the Nativity over the cave, marking the birthplace of Jesus. It was dedicated in 339 AD. It consisted of an octagonal floor plan placed directly over the cave and a large church extending westward. It was built in the shape of a cross. In the center of the octagonal part, a viewing area with a railing provided a view of the cave. Part of the original mosaic floor of the church has survived and remains visible. Period of Jerome - 382 to 405 AD Jerome, who translated Greek and Hebrew manuscripts into Latin (the language of the Roman Empire) to form the Latin Vulgate, did much of his translation work in a cave beside the Church of the Nativity from 382 to 405 AD. He was later buried here, and today it’s known as Jerome’s Grotto. The Crusaders carried his remains to Rome around 1165. Period of Samaritan Revolt - 529 AD The church was burned down during a Samaritan revolt. Period of Roman Emperor Justinian - 565 AD Justinian rebuilt a new church over Constantine's church in 565 AD, which has survived to this day. Justinian's church is the oldest functioning church in the world. Period of the Persian Conquest - 614 AD The Church of the Nativity was the only church the Persians didn't destroy during their conquest of the Holy Land in 614 AD because they saw paintings outside the church honoring the Magi from the east, who were fellow Persians. Period of the Crusaders - 1165 AD The Crusaders renovated the church, painting murals on the pillars and mosaics on the walls of the central nave. Period of Muslim Rule - 1187 to 1917 AD The Church of the Nativity suffered from long decay after the Ottoman conquest of the Holy Land in 1516 AD. The nave was largely abandoned and used for profane purposes. To prevent people from entering the church with horses and cattle, the main entrance was walled up and transformed into a small door, now known as the "Door of Humility" because visitors were forced to bend down to go through it. The church has been restored and repaired various times during this period. Period of Modern Time - 1917 to Present The church has undergone several renovations since the Crusader period. In 2012, the church complex became the first Palestinian site to be listed as a World Heritage Site by the World Heritage Committee at its 36th session on 29 June. Today, the Roman Catholic, Armenian, and Greek Orthodox churches control the church. The Greek Orthodox Church cares for the Main Nave and Grotto of the Nativity. A 25 million USD renovation has recently been completed at the Church of the Nativity. Places of Interest 1. Manger Square is located directly west of the Church of the Nativity. 2. Entrance to the church The original entrance and columns are from Justinian's church (565 AD). Door Arch from the Crusader Period (1165 AD). Door of Humility – To provide a humble entrance and keep horsemen and carts from entering the church to loot it during the Muslim Ottoman Period (1500 AD). 3. Entrance Lobby To the left (south) of the entrance lobby are rooms where excavations have been conducted, revealing layers of archaeology dating from the time of Abraham to the present. 4. Main Nave The Main Nave i s from the Byzantine Period, built by Justinian ( 565 AD). The structure is supported by 40 limestone pillars, arranged in two rows on each side, all dating from the Byzantine Period. Many pillars have paintings of kings and saints from the Crusader Period (1165 AD). Above the pillars on the walls are Crusader-period mosaics. Some show the genealogy of Jesus. The mosaics of the Church of Constantine (constructed in 339 AD) are located beneath the church's modern floor. 5. High Altar (front part of the nave) Mosaics of the Church of Constantine (339 AD) are on the left side of the High Altar. 6. Birthplace Grotto Located under the main altar. The entrance is to the right of the altar, and the exit is to the left. The cave has an eastern niche, believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, which contains the Altar of Nativity. A 14-pointed silver star marks the exact spot where Jesus was born beneath this altar. The significance of the 14 points on the star represents the three sets of 14 generations in Jesus Christ's genealogy: 14 from Abraham to David, 14 from David to the Babylonian captivity, and 14 from the Babylonian captivity to Jesus. In the center of the 14-pointed star is a circular hole through which one can reach in to touch the stone, which is said to be the original stone on which Mary lay when she gave birth to Jesus. The place where Christ was placed in a manger is on the right side of the grotto. The actual manger is in Italy at the Church Santa Maria Maggiore. 7. Church of St. Catherine A Roman Catholic Church named after Catherine, who was a 4th-century martyr from Alexandria. It was built in 1880 AD upon the ruins of a 5th-century monastery and a 12th-century Crusader church. Courtyard Statue of Jerome in the courtyard 8. A cave complex containing several chapels is accessed from St. Catherine's Church by a narrow staircase on the right. The Chapel of Saint Joseph commemorates the angel's appearance to Joseph, commanding him to flee to Egypt. Chapel of the Innocents commemorates the children killed by Herod. The Chapel of Jerome is where Jerome lived while translating the Bible from Hebrew to Latin (the Vulgate). This cave complex connects to the grotto where Christ was born. Birth of Christ in the Bible 1. Bethlehem was the prophesied birthplace of Christ. Micah 5:2: But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. 2. Christ was born in Bethlehem as prophesied. Luke 2:1–7: In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to his own town to register. 4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. 3. Many angels appeared to the shepherds near Bethlehem who were watching their flocks. Luke 2:8–16: And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." 15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 4. Wise men (Magi) from the east visited and worshiped Christ in Bethlehem. Matthew 2:1–12: Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, "Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him." 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: 6 "'And you, O Bethlehem , in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.'" 7 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem , saying, "Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him." 9 After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And going into the house they saw the child with Mary, his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way. 5. God warned Joseph to flee to Egypt because Herod planned to kill Jesus. Matthew 2:13-15: Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt , and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him .” 14 When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt, 15 and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt I called My Son.” 6. Herod had all the male children 2 years and younger murdered here in Bethlehem in his attempt to kill Christ. Matthew 2:16–18: Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, became furious, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time that he had ascertained from the wise men. 17 Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah: 18 "A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be comforted, because they are no more.” 7. After the death of Herod, Jesus and His family returned to Israel to live in Nazareth. Matthew 2:19-23: Now when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, 20 saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel , for those who sought the young Child’s life are dead.” 21 Then he arose, took the young Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea instead of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. And being warned by God in a dream, he turned aside into the region of Galilee. 23 And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth , that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, “He shall be called a Nazarene.” Faith Lesson from the Birth of Christ 1. Bethlehem was the prophesied birthplace of Christ. 2. Christ fulfilled over 2 00 prophecies regarding his first coming. 3. The birth of Christ was a historical supernatural event witnessed by many. 4. The fulfillment of prophecy proves that Christ was the Son of God and that the Bible is inspired. 5. Christ’s birth, death, and resurrection were all miraculous events, proving Christ to be the very Son of God. 6. Christ claimed to be God in the flesh and proved it through His supernatural life and miracles. 7. Do we believe Christ is the Son of God, and have we received Him as our Lord and Savior?

See the miraculous events of the Exodus route the Israelites took from Egypt, the location of the Red Sea Crossing, and the location of Mt. Sinai. Sites of interest include the Exodus route from Egypt, Nuweiba Port, Marah, Elim, Caves of Jethro, Well of Moses, Rephidim, Altar of Jehovah Nissi, Altar of Moses, Altar of Aaron, Golden Calf Altar, Elijah's Cave, Jabal Maqla, Mount Jebel al Lawz, Al Bad, Massive Graveyard, Split Rock, Rock of Horeb, and more. Mount Sinai In Saudi Arabia Photo Gallery Places of Interest Mount Sinai Location For many years the believed site of Mount Sinai has been in the Sinai Peninsula at the place called, "St. Catherine's Monastery." However, many recent archeologists and scholars now believe the Israelites crossed the Red Sea at the Aqaba finger of the Red Sea and that Mount Sinai is in Midian, which is part of modern-day Saudi Arabia. Historical Background 1. God called Abraham and promised him He would make a great nation out of his offspring. Abraham obeyed and left everything to follow God. 2. Abraham birthed Isaac, who birthed Jacob, who birthed 12 sons. God changed Jacob’s name to Israel. 3. Jacob and his 12 sons moved to Egypt according to God’s sovereign plan (about 70–75 total people). 4. The Israelites spent 430 years in Egypt (30 years as free people under Joseph, and 400 years as slaves). During this time, they grew into a nation of around 2.5 to 3 million people. 5. God performed a miraculous deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt by performing 10 amazing miracles. 6. The last miracle, known as the Passover, happened when God killed the firstborn of all the Egyptians who did not put the blood of a lamb over the doorposts of their homes. 7. God then miraculously led the nation of Israel through the Sinai Penisula to the Red Sea crossing at Nuweiba Beach, and then to Mt. Sinai. Evidence for all these events and places are quite astounding. Places of Interest 1. Egypt 2. Goshen 3. Suez Finger of the Red Sea 4. Traditional Red Sea Crossing Place 5. Sinai Peninsula 6. Aqaba Finger of Red Sea 7. Nuweiba Beach 8. Saudi Arabia Beach 9. Red Sea Crossing 10. Marah 11. Elim 12. Magna Oasis 13. Wilderness of Sin 14. Caves of Jethro 15. Rephidim 16. Mount Sinai Evidence that the Israelites Crossed the Red Sea at the Aqaba Finger of the Red Sea at Nuweiba Beach 1. How many Israelites left Egypt and crossed the Red Sea? Exodus 12:37: Now the sons of Israel journeyed from Rameses to Succoth, about six hundred thousand men on foot, aside from children. Using the number of 600,000 men only, we can estimate that there were probably 2.5 to 3 million Israelites. 2. How many Egyptian soldiers were chasing them? Exodus 14:6–7: So he made his chariot ready and took his people with him; 7 and he took six hundred select chariots, and all the other chariots of Egypt with officers over all of them. According to Josephus, a historian writer, there were 50,000 horsemen, and 200,000 footmen, all armed. 3. Did the Israelites cross the Red Sea by Egypt? It has been generally believed for many years that the Israelites crossed the Suez finger of the Red Sea just east of Cairo, Egypt. However, the sea is not very deep there so many have discredited the biblical miracle by claiming the Israelites crossed in shallow marshes of water. It should be noted that over the years no archaeological evidence has supported this Red Sea crossing location. It also would have been virtually impossible for such a large army to drown in the shallow lakes and marshes in this area. 4. Over the past several decades there has been substantial archeological investigation that shows convincing evidence for a different location for the Red Sea crossing. The new location places the crossing at Nuweiba Beach on the Aqaba finger of the Red Sea about 40 miles (64 km.) south of Eilat, Israel. 5. God said he brought the Israelites out of Egypt on the very same day they left. Exodus 12:51: And on that same day the Lord brought the sons of Israel out of the land of Egypt by their hosts. The Red Sea crossing happened after they had left Egypt. The border of Egypt at that time was the Suez finger of the Red Sea. Any place the Israelites would have crossed the sea in this area they would still have been in Egypt and not outside of it. 6. The Suez finger of the Red Sea is about 72 miles (116 km.) south of Goshen (place where the Israelites lived and departed Egypt). However, the land directly east of Goshen is dry and easily crossable. The Israelites had exited Egypt on the same day they left. The route directly east of Goshen would have allowed them to leave Egypt on dry ground. Afterward, they would have been in the wilderness of Sinai, which fits well with the biblical narrative as we will see in the next point. 7. Scripture strongly indicates that the Israelites traveled a long time through a wilderness before crossing the Red Sea. Exodus 13:18-22: Hence, God led the people around by the way of the wilderness to the Red Sea ; and the sons of Israel went up in martial array from the land of Egypt. 19 Moses took the bones of Joseph with him, for he had made the sons of Israel solemnly swear, saying, “God will surely take care of you, and you shall carry my bones from here with you.” 20 Then they set out from Succoth and camped in Etham on the edge of the wilderness. 21 The Lord was going before them in a pillar of cloud by day to lead them on the way, and in a pillar of fire by night to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night . 22 He did not take away the pillar of cloud by day, nor the pillar of fire by night, from before the people. These verses clearly reveal that the Israelites walked a long way traveling both day and night through a wilderness before crossing the Red Sea. Because the miracle of the Red Sea crossing happened several days after the Exodus, it couldn’t have happened at the Suez finger of the Red Sea because Goshen is just 20 miles (32 km.) from the sea, a distance of just a few hours walk. Moreover, between Goshen and the believed traditional crossing place of the Red Sea is not a wilderness. The Sinai Peninsula is a wilderness that would fit the biblical narrative of the Israelites traveling by day and by night before crossing the sea. Research shows that a person could cross the Sinai Peninsula in 3 days traveling day and night at a normal walking pace of just 3 or so miles an hour. Scripture also says that there were no feeble ones among them and that God carried them supernaturally on eagle’s wings during their exodus. These factors provide more evidence that the Israelites could have easily crossed the Sinai Peninsula and arrived at the Aqaba finger of the Red Sea at Nuweiba Beach. Meaning of Yam Suph Now the reason some believe that the Israelites crossed the Sea close-by to Egypt is because of how the Hebrew words Yam Suph, and specifically, Suph is translated. The translation of the word Yam means sea, or large body of water, and Suph mainly means end, edge, shoreline, red, and a few times as reeds. Therefore, some believe the Israelites crossed just east of Egypt because there are many shallow waters with reeds there. However, the words Yam Suph together are mentioned 24 times in the Old Testament, with 7 of them referring to specific locations which are around the Aqaba finger of the Red Sea and not by Egypt. For example, in Exodus 23:31, the word is used to describe the boundary of Israel going from the Aqaba northern tip of the Red Sea by Eilat to the Sea of the Philistines which would be the Mediterranean Sea. In 1 Kings 9:26, Yam Suph refers again to the northern tip of the Aqaba Finger of the Red Sea and is where Solomon had a fleet of ships stationed at Eloth, which is modern-day Eilat. Therefore, the term Yam Suph does not only mean reeds and refer to the area east of Egypt. The term is mainly used of the Aqaba finger of the Red Sea. Taking this into account, the Aqaba Finger of the Red Sea is referred to as Yam Suph as well in the Bible. 8. There has been found in the Aqaba finger of the Red Sea at Nuweiba Beach amazing evidence of coral growth on objects that look like old chariot wheels, axles, etc. These same objects have also been found on the shore across from Nuweiba Beach on the Saudi Arabian side of the Red Sea. Coral doesn’t grow in sandy areas and must have some object to grow on. The Red Sea is very sandy from Nuweiba Beach to the Saudi Arabian shore, so there’s no reason coral would grow in this area unless there were foreign objects for it to grow on. 9. Nuweiba Beach is very large and could have easily accommodated the 3 million or so Israelites. The beach at Nuweiba is large, flat, and sandy, the perfect place for the 2.5 to 3 million Israelites to camp. 10. The ocean floor of the Red Sea by Nuweiba Beach gradually goes down and then gradually goes up to the shore of Saudi Arabia. Just north or south of this area there are deep impassible ravines on the ocean floor. The Nuweiba Beach location is the only place on the Aqaba finger of the Red Sea that would have allowed the Israelites to cross. It seems reasonable to suggest that God, in His sovereignty, divinely created this sandy, gradual crossing place for the Israelites to use for this magnanimous miracle. The maximum depth of the ocean floor at this crossing place is about 2,500 ft. deep (762 m.). This fits the biblical narrative that God divided the “mighty waters” of the sea. Exodus 14:29: But the sons of Israel walked on dry land through the midst of the sea , and the waters were like a wall to them on their right hand and on their left. Exodus 15:10: You blew with Your wind, the sea covered them; They sank like lead in the mighty waters . Isaiah 51:10: Was it not You who dried up the sea, the waters of the great deep ; who made the depths of the sea a pathway for the redeemed to cross over? The shallow lakebeds and marshes by Egypt were certainly not waters of the great deep. 11. Solomon referred to the Aqaba finger of the Red Sea, and archaeological discoveries have found two pillars he erected on each side of the Red Sea crossing. 1 Kings 9:26: King Solomon also built a fleet of ships in Ezion-geber, which is near Eloth [modern-day Eilat] on the shore of the Red Sea , in the land of Edom. At Nuweiba Beach, and on the beach of Saudi Arabia across from Nuweiba Beach, are pillars Solomon erected marking the crossing of the Red Sea by the Israelites. 12. When the Israelites arrived at the location of Nuweiba Beach, they were certainly hemmed in as Scripture says. Exodus 14:1–3: Then the Lord said to Moses, 2 “Tell the people of Israel to turn back and encamp in front of Pi-hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea , in front of Baal-zephon; you shall encamp facing it, by the sea . 3 For Pharaoh will say of the people of Israel, ‘They are wandering in the land; the wilderness has shut them in .’” The landscape at Nuweiba Beach is unique and mountainous and would fit the biblical narrative. 13. As a result of being hemmed in and threatened by the Egyptian army, the Israelites cried out to Moses in anger and desperation. Exodus 14:13-14: But Moses said to the people, “Do not fear! Stand by and see the salvation of the Lord which He will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians whom you have seen today, you will never see them again forever. 14 The Lord will fight for you while you keep silent.” 14. Then the hand of God performed one of the greatest miracles ever recorded in Scripture. Exodus 14:15-31: Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to Me? Tell the sons of Israel to go forward. 16 As for you, lift up your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it, and the sons of Israel shall go through the midst of the sea on dry land. 17 As for Me, behold, I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians so that they will go in after them; and I will be honored through Pharaoh and all his army, through his chariots and his horsemen. 18 Then the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord, when I am honored through Pharaoh, through his chariots and his horsemen.” 19 The angel of God, who had been going before the camp of Israel, moved and went behind them; and the pillar of cloud moved from before them and stood behind them. 20 So it came between the camp of Egypt and the camp of Israel; and there was the cloud along with the darkness, yet it gave light at night. Thus, the one did not come near the other all night. 21 Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord swept the sea back by a strong east wind all night and turned the sea into dry land, so the waters were divided. 22 The sons of Israel went through the midst of the sea on the dry land, and the waters were like a wall to them on their right hand and on their left. 23 Then the Egyptians took up the pursuit, and all Pharaoh’s horses, his chariots and his horsemen went in after them into the midst of the sea. 24 At the morning watch, the Lord looked down on the army of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and cloud and brought the army of the Egyptians into confusion. 25 He caused their chariot wheels to swerve, and He made them drive with difficulty; so the Egyptians said, “Let us flee from Israel, for the Lord is fighting for them against the Egyptians.” 26 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand over the sea so that the waters may come back over the Egyptians, over their chariots and their horsemen.” 27 So Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to its normal state at daybreak, while the Egyptians were fleeing right into it; then the Lord overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea . 28 The waters returned and covered the chariots and the horsemen, even Pharaoh’s entire army that had gone into the sea after them; not even one of them remained. 29 But the sons of Israel walked on dry land through the midst of the sea , and the waters were like a wall to them on their right hand and on their left. 30 Thus the Lord saved Israel that day from the hand of the Egyptians, and Israel saw the Egyptians dead on the seashore. 31 When Israel saw the great power which the Lord had used against the Egyptians, the people feared the Lord, and they believed in the Lord and in His servant Moses. Evidence that Mt. Sinai Is In Saudi Arabia After crossing the Red Sea, the Bible says the Israelites then traveled to Mount Sinai. Does the location of Mount Sinai in Saudi Arabia, which was biblical Midian, fit the biblical narrative? When Moses fled to Egypt, to save his life, Scripture says he went to Midian. Exodus 2:15: When Pharaoh heard of this matter, he tried to kill Moses. But Moses fled from the presence of Pharaoh and settled in the land of Midian , and he sat down by a well. Midian is in Saudi Arabia, not in the Sinai Peninsula. Galatians 4:25: Now this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia and corresponds to the present Jerusalem, for she is in slavery with her children. When God appeared to Moses in a burning bush at Mount Sinai, God said that Moses would bring the people out of Egypt and they would worship at the same Mount Sinai (also known as Mount Horeb). Moses was in Midian when this event occurred, so it seems very convincing that Mount Sinai is in Midian. Exodus 3:1–2: Now Moses was pasturing the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian ; and he led the flock to the west side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God . 2 The angel of the Lord appeared to him in a blazing fire from the midst of a bush; and he looked, and behold, the bush was burning with fire, yet the bush was not consumed. Exodus 3:12: And He said, “Certainly I will be with you, and this shall be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: when you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall worship God at this mountain .” Evidence from the Places the Israelites Camped on Their Way to Mt. Sinai 1. Location of Elim Exodus 15:27: Then they came to Elim where there were twelve springs of water and seventy date palms, and they camped there beside the waters. The location of Elim has been identified in Saudi Arabia about 26 miles (42 km.) south of the Red Sea crossing. 2. Magna Oasis We then find in Numbers 33:10 that the Israelites then journeyed from Elim and camped by the Red Sea. Now we have strong and convincing evidence of where Elim is so taking into consideration the geography of the land, the most obvious place would have been south of Elim a bit at the modern-day location of Magna Oasis by the Red Sea. You can see that this is a large area with plenty of water that would fit the biblical requirements for this place. There is also a well here called by the Saudis as the well of Moses. 3. Caves of Jethro There are caves named after Jethro the Midianite (Moses’ father-in-law) that have been found by the route the Israelites took from the Red Sea crossing to Mount Sinai. This shows that Jethro lived in this area and that it was the land of Midian at that time. 4. Split Rock at Rephidim Exodus 17:1: Then all the congregation of the sons of Israel journeyed by stages from the wilderness of Sin, according to the command of the Lord, and camped at Rephidim , and there was no water for the people to drink. Exodus 17:6: Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock at Horeb; and you shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it , that the people may drink.” This rock at Rephidim is believed to have been found. It is a large rock that is split from top to bottom and shows water grooves where massive amounts of water ran down from it. Evidence at Mt. Sinai 1. Large area to camp at the base of the mountain. Exodus 19:2: When they set out from Rephidim, they came to the wilderness of Sinai and camped in the wilderness; and there Israel camped in front of the mountain. 2. Burnt top of the mountain and surrounding mountains. Exodus 19:18: Now Mount Sinai was all in smoke because the Lord descended upon it in fire; and its smoke ascended like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked violently. 3. Plateau partway up the mountain where the seventy elders could have worshiped while Moses continued up the mountain. Exodus 24:1: Then He said to Moses, “Come up to the Lord, you and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel, and you shall worship at a distance. 4. Altar of Moses at the base of the mountain. Exodus 24:4: And Moses wrote down all the words of the Lord. Then he got up early in the morning, and built an altar [b]at the foot of the mountain with twelve memorial stones for the twelve tribes of Israel. 5. Speaking platform partway up the mountain. Exodus 24:3: Then Moses came and reported to the people all the words of the Lord and all the ordinances; and all the people answered with one voice and said, “All the words which the Lord has spoken we will do!” 6. Golden Calf Altar. Exodus 32:1: Now when the people saw that Moses delayed to come down from the mountain, the people assembled around Aaron and said to him, “Come, make us a god who will go before us; for this Moses, the man who brought us up from the land of Egypt—we do not know what happened to him.” 7. Streams of water and dry lakebed at the base of the mountain. Exodus 32:19-20: And it came about, as soon as Moses approached the camp, that he saw the calf and the people dancing; and Moses’ anger burned, and he threw the tablets from his hands and shattered them to pieces at the foot of the mountain. 20 Then he took the calf which they had made and completely burned it with fire, and ground it to powder, and scattered it over the surface of the water and made the sons of Israel drink it. 8. Wells at the base of the mountain. 9. Massive graveyard closeby to the mountain. Exodus 32:27-28: And he said to them, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel says: ‘Every man of you put his sword on his thigh, and go back and forth from gate to gate in the camp, and kill every man his brother, and every man his friend, and every man his neighbor.’” 28 So the sons of Levi did as Moses instructed, and about three thousand men of the people fell that day. 10. Cave of Elijah at the mountain. 1 Kings 19:8-9: So he arose and ate and drank, and he journeyed in the strength of that food for forty days and forty nights to Horeb, the mountain of God. 9 Then he came there to a cave and spent the night there; and behold, the word of the Lord came to him, and He said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” 11. Artifacts found in the area. Items like a menorah drawing, writings, and footprint drawings all give further evidence that the Israelites were in this area. 12. This area is a designated archaeological site by the Saudi government. Today, sections of the area, along with the mountain, are fenced off by the Saudi Arabian government and designated as archeological sites. However, there are no excavations permitted on them at this time. Evidence from Ancient Sources Several Jewish, Christian, and Muslim documents dating 600 years before Christ locate Mount Sinai in Midian. Philo and Josephus (Jewish historians) also locate Mount Sinai in Midian of Arabia. Faith Lesson from the Exodus, Red Sea Crossing, and Mount Sinai 1. The miracles of the Exodus, Red Sea Crossing, God’s supernatural leading of the Israelites, and all that happened at Mt. Sinai, are massive miracles that reveal God’s glory and greatness. 2. They teach us deep theological truths that God wants us to believe and embrace. Truths like God’s greatness, ability to help and rescue us out of our sin and problems, how God is able to provide for us, protect us, and lead us are foundational concepts these miracles communicate. 3. God wants us to believe them instead of doubting and trying to explain them away, or believe they happened by natural means, as many liberal scholars attempt to do. 4. God calls unbelief a sin in His Word, the Bible. Hebrews 3:12 says: Take care, brothers and sisters, that there will not be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart that falls away from the living God. 5. While the miracles of the Exodus, Red Sea Crossing, and the events that happened at Mt. Sinai are massive in size, they are tiny in comparison to God’s greater miracles of creating everything that exists, giving life to everything that exists, and sustaining everything that exists. Acts 17:27 says: He [God] is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and exist. It is God who gives life to our bodies and spirits and is allows us to live, move, and exist. 6. When I listen to liberal theologians explaining away the miracles of the Exodus, Red Sea crossing, events at Mt. Sinai, and so forth, I can’t help but think that if God was to remove His sustaining power from their lives they would cease to exist in the very moment they are speaking and denying God’s power. 7. God was deeply grieved with the Israelites who doubted His power and ability on many occasions. He can also be deeply grieved with us today when we do the same. 8. Unlike Moses, who tried to fulfill God’s promise in his own strength and wound up killing an Egyptian, we should wait on God’s timing and not force things when they don’t happen as we think they should. We should never have to do evil or manipulate things in fulfilling God’s will for us.

Overview of Jerusalem's history from the beginning until now. Videos, maps, books, talks, archaeology, Bible teachings, history, walls, gates, people, and language of the people and places of Jerusalem, Israel. Jerusalem ~ God's Chosen City Photo Gallery Places of Interest Jerusalem - God’s Chosen City Welcome to the Holy Land and the biblical site of the city of Jerusalem. See the Bible come to life as we take a look at some key events that took place here. Location 1. Jerusalem is in the central part of Israel about 33 miles (53 km.) east of Tel Aviv and the Mediterranean Sea. 2. It’s situated at an altitude of 2,600 ft. (800 m.) above sea level and one of the highest cities in Israel. 3. It’s located on a mountain that is well protected. For this reason, it was hard to capture by enemy forces. 4. Jerusalem rests primarily upon bedrock, so everything was well preserved. 5. Jerusalem is the Old Testament, Mount Moriah. Historical Background 1. Jerusalem means “City of Peace.” 2. It’s mentioned over 500 times in the Bible. 3. It’s first mentioned as the city in which King Melchizedek, King of Salem (Jerusalem) lived (Gen. 14:17). Melchizedek was a figure of Christ as he had neither beginning of days or end of life. Hebrews 7:1: For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, who met Abraham as he was returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him, 2 to whom also Abraham apportioned a tenth part of all the spoils, was first of all, by the translation of his name, king of righteousness, and then also king of Salem, which is king of peace. 4. Jerusalem is the special dwelling place of God on this earth. Psalms 76:2: His tent is in Salem, his dwelling place in Zion . Psalm 135:21: Praise be to the LORD from Zion, to him who dwells in Jerusalem. Praise the LORD. 5. It was in Jerusalem, on Mount Moriah, that Abraham was to offer Isaac, his firstborn son to God, on the very place the temple would later be built. Genesis 22:2: Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about.” 6. Jerusalem was partially conquered by the Israelites when they entered the Promised Land. 7. Jerusalem was then later fully conquered by King David. 8. King David purchased the original Temple Mount in Jerusalem from Araunah when it was just a threshing floor. He purchased it to build an altar to the Lord. 9. Afterward, King David set up his throne in Jerusalem, and it became the ruling center of Israel from then on. 10. King Solomon then built the Temple in 960 BC on the exact location where Abraham was going to sacrifice Isaac. This exact location was also the very threshing floor that King David had purchased. 2 Chronicles 3:1: Then Solomon began to build the temple of the LORD in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah, where the LORD had appeared to his father, David. It was on the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite, the place provided by David. 11. And at the dedication of the temple Solomon built, the temple was so filled with the glory of God that the priest had to withdraw and suspend their dedication service. 1 Kings 8:10–11: When the priests withdrew from the Holy Place, the cloud filled the temple of the LORD. 11 And the priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled his temple. 12. Jerusalem became the center of worship in Israel. 13. The kings of Israel reigned from Jerusalem. 14. The prophets of Israel spoke and ministered in Jerusalem. 15. Unfortunately, the first temple built by Solomon was destroyed in 586 BC by Babylon because of God’s judgment on Israel for their disobedience to Him. 16. The altar and foundation of the second temple were built by Zerubbabel in 535 BC. 17. The construction of the second temple was completed in 515 BC. Ezra 6:3: In the first year of King Cyrus, the king issued a decree concerning the temple of God in Jerusalem: Let the temple be rebuilt as a place to present sacrifices, and let its foundations be laid. 18. Nehemiah then arrived to rebuild the city and walls of Jerusalem in 445 BC. Nehemiah 2:17: Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace. 19. The Temple Mount Platform was enlarged by the Hasmoneans in around 140 BC and then later enlarged tremendously by King Herod in 19 BC. 20. On top of the Temple Mount Platform (and over the existing second temple, which was later removed), a new massive temple was built by King Herod in 19 BC and was made more beautiful than any before it. 21. It was at this temple built by Herod that Christ and the disciples would minister. 22. Jesus was circumcised at the temple in Jerusalem after being born in Bethlehem. 23. Magi from the east came to visit Jerusalem to witness the birth of Jesus, the Messiah King. Matthew 2:1: After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem. 24. Scripture records that Jesus appeared in Jerusalem at the age of 12, and His parents visited there regularly. 25. At the temple in Jerusalem is the place where Christ was tempted by the Devil to throw himself down headlong. 26. Christ visited and ministered in Jerusalem at least 10 times during His ministry years. 27. Christ died on the Cross in Jerusalem. Matthew 16:21: From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life. 28. Christ ascended to heaven in Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives. 29. Pentecost and the coming of the Holy Spirit happened in Jerusalem. 30. The Early Church was born in Jerusalem. Acts 2:1, 5–6, 41: When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 5 Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6 When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking in his own language. 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. 31. The Apostle Paul grew up in Jerusalem under Gamaliel (Acts 22:3). He probably sat at the Southern Stairs (Rabbi’s Stairs) learning from Gamaliel. 32. Stephen was martyred in Jerusalem as recounted in Acts 7. 33. Unfortunately, Jerusalem was destroyed in 70 AD by the Romans as a result of Christ’s judgment on it for the Jew’s rejection of Him as their Messiah. 34. It was destroyed again in 132 AD in the Bar Kokhba Revolt. Later, Hadrian rebuilt and renamed it Aelia Capitolina. 35. It was later conquered by Muslims in 636 AD. 36. In 691 AD, the Dome of the Rock was built where the temple once stood. 37. Jerusalem was captured by the Crusaders in 1099 AD. 38. It was re-captured by the Muslims in 1187 AD. 39. It was ruled by the Mamluks in 1291 AD. 40. It was ruled by the Ottomans in 1516 AD. 41. Most of the walls and gates of Jerusalem that exist today were built around 1537 AD. 42. The nation of Israel was supernaturally re-gathered after almost 2,000 years of being scattered and became a nation again in 1948. 43. Christ will return to Jerusalem in power and great glory on the Mount of Olives at the end of the Great Tribulation Period. 44. The final judgment at the end of the Great Tribulation takes place in Jerusalem in the Kidron Valley. 45. Christ will reign for 1,000 years from Jerusalem after the Great Tribulation Period. 46. There will be a New Jerusalem that will be the center of the new heavens and new earth for eternity. Places of Interest 1. Temple Mount 2. Western Wall 3. Southern Stairs 4. Church of the Holy Sepulchre 5. Kidron Valley 6. Garden of Gethsemane 7. Triumphal Entry 8. Mount of Olives 9. City of David 10. Gihon Spring 11. Pool of Siloam 12. Pools of Bethesda 13. House of Caiaphas 14. Upper Room Faith Lesson from Jerusalem 1. Jerusalem has played a key role as the center of God’s dwelling place and ministry on this earth. 2. It will be the place Christ returns to in power and great glory at the end of the Great Tribulation Period. Believers will return with Him at this event. Will you be coming with him in glory or be judged by Him when He comes? 3. Christ will reign in Jerusalem over all the earth during the Millennial Reign. Will you be among those who reign with Him? 4. There will be a New Jerusalem created by God which will be His new eternal dwelling place on the new earth. Those who are followers of Christ will have the privilege of living in or visiting this new city forever. Are you saved, and will you be in heaven where the New Jerusalem will be?

It was 3,000 years ago that King David made the City of David, also known as Jerusalem, the capital of Israel. Learn all about this key place in Israel. See a complete overview and in-depth tour of the City of David. No stone is left unturned. Learn about the history, places of interest, key events from the Bible that happened here, and a faith lesson about how it all applies to our lives today. City of David Overview Photo Gallery Places of Interest City of David Overview Introduction Welcome to the City of David. This is where Jerusalem all began. 1. It was established by King David as his capital over 3,000 years ago. 2. It is strategically located with the Kidron Valley to the east, the Tyropoeon Valley to the West, and the Hinnom Valley to the south. These valleys provided it with natural protection. Psalms 125:2: As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people from this time forth and forever. 3. It has been the most excavated site in Israel over the past 150 years. 4. Before King David conquered this site, it was known as the city of Jebus. 5. David built houses for himself and prepared a place for the Ark of the Covenant in the City of David. 6. This site has so much to see, and its history is packed. We'll see and explore the following: Ancient ruins dating back over 3,500 years. King David's Palace and retaining wall. Walls Nehemiah built. What's believed to be Melchizedek's Temple. Gihon Spring Hezekiah's Tunnel King David's Tomb Pool of Siloam 7. Let's explore and experience this incredible site where Jerusalem began. Location 1. The City of David is located just south of the Temple Mount on a plateau ridge. 2. It’s where all the history of Jerusalem began. 3. It is strategically located with the Kidron Valley to the east, the Tyropoeon Valley to the West, and the Hinnom Valley to the south. These valleys provide it with natural protection. Psalms 125:2: As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people from this time forth and forever. 4. It has been the most excavated site in Israel over the past 150 years. Historical Background 1. King David made the City of David, also known as Jerusalem, the capital of Israel 3,000 years ago. 2. Before David, Abraham traveled here when he met with the King of Salem (Jerusalem). 3. Later, Abraham would be willing to offer his son, Isaac, to the Lord on Mt. Moriah, just above the City of David. 4. The City of David had an amazing source of fresh water known as the Gihon Spring. 5. The City of David is also called Zion in Scripture. 2 Samuel 5:7: Nevertheless, David captured the stronghold of Zion, that is the city of David. Places of Interest 1. A theater with an excellent movie showing the history of the City of David. 2. Bet Hatsofeh Lookout – Great place to see a panoramic view of the City of David and the sites around it. 3. Palace of King David Royal Phoenician Capital – 2 Samuel 5:11: And Hiram king of Tyre [Phenicia] sent messengers to David, and cedar trees, also carpenters and masons who built David a house. Two Bullae (clay seals) – Recent discoveries unearthed these clay seals, dating to the beginning of the 6th Century BC, bearing the names "Gedaliah son of Pashur " and "Jehucal son of Shelemiah ." Both officials are named in the Bible. Jeremiah 38:1 says: "Then ... Gedaliah the son of Pashur , and Jehucal the son of Shelemiah ... heard the words that Jeremiah had spoken unto all the people." This is the first time two bullas from a single Bible verse have been discovered in one place. From here, David looked down upon Bathsheba bathing. 2 Samuel 11:2: It happened, late one afternoon, when David arose from his couch and was walking on the roof of the king's house, that he saw from the roof a woman bathing ; and the woman was very beautiful. 4. Givati Excavation Area Excavations began in 2007. It was a parking lot. Jeremiah's Dungeon was likely in this area. Jeremiah 38:6: "So they took Jeremiah and cast him into the cistern of Malchiah, the king's son, which was in the court of the guard, letting Jeremiah down by ropes. And there was no water in the cistern, but only mud, and Jeremiah sank in the mud." Public building: 900-700 BC Fortification structure: 300-200 BC Multilevel structure: 100-0 BC Massive Roman Villa: 63 BC - 100 AD Byzantine structure: 600 - 700 AD Muslim bakery structure: 700 - 800 AD 5 . Stepped Stone Retaining Wall by King David's Palace 6. Ancient 3,000-year-old walls 7. Walls Nehemiah repaired 8. House of Ahiel (four-room house) 9. Hasmonean Tower 10 . Burnt Room – Evidence of a room burnt during the Babylonian destruction in 586 BC. A burnt ash level from this same time period was also discovered throughout the site. Jeremiah 52:12–13: "In the fifth month, on the tenth day of the month—that was the nineteenth year of King Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon—Nebuzaradan the captain of the bodyguard, who served the king of Babylon, entered Jerusalem. 13 And he burned the house of the Lord, and the king's house and all the houses of Jerusalem; every great house he burned down." 11 . Gihon Spring Jerusalem’s primary water source King Solomon was anointed here, along with many other kings. 1 Kings 1:45: Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet have anointed him king in Gihon, and they have come up from there rejoicing, so that the city is in an uproar. This is the noise which you have heard. King Hezekiah diverted the water down to the Pool of Siloam. 12. Hezekiah’s Water Tunnel 13. Canaanite Tunnel 14. Warren Shaft System 15. Melchizedek's Temple 16. Ancient 3,000-year-old walls Nehemiah repaired. 17. Tower of Siloam Luke 13:1-5: There were some present at that very time who told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. 2 And he answered them, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered in this way? 3 No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. 4 Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them: do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others who lived in Jerusalem? 5 No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.” 18. Tomb of King David 19. Synagogue of Theodotus In John chapter 9, when Jesus rubbed clay on the blind man’s eyes, He told him to go wash it off in the Pool of Siloam. After the blind man was healed, he was brought to this synagogue to be questioned by the Pharisees. The synagogue is located below the Tomb of David. 20. Pool of Siloam – Siloam means “safe” Herod the Great enlarged the Pool of Siloam to make it a massive Mikveh A blind man was healed here by Christ 21. Pilgrim's Road leading up to the temple from the Pool of Siloam is called the Herodian Street. Countless Jews used it to ascend to the temple. There is no doubt Jesus walked this road as well. 22. There was a canal tunnel under the Herodian Street that was used for waste purposes. In this tunnel, thousands of Jews were slaughtered by the Romans in 70 AD as they tried to escape the city. 23. In this same tunnel, a rare gold bell sewn onto priests' garments, an ancient silver shekel used to pay the half-shekel temple tax, and a Roman sword with its leather sheath still partly intact were recently discovered. City of David in the Bible 1. Before King David conquered this site, it was known as the city of Jebus. 1 Chronicles 11:3–5: So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, and David made a covenant with them in Hebron before the Lord; and they anointed David king over Israel, according to the word of the Lord through Samuel. 4 Then David and all Israel went to Jerusalem (that is, Jebus); and the Jebusites, 5 the inhabitants of the land, were there. The inhabitants of Jebus said to David, “You shall not enter here.” Nevertheless, David captured the stronghold of Zion (that is, the city of David). 2 Samuel 5:9: So David lived in the stronghold and called it the city of David. And David built all around from the Millo and inward. 2. David built houses for himself and prepared a place for the Ark of the Covenant in the City of David. 1 Chronicles 15:1: Now David built houses for himself in the city of David; and he prepared a place for the ark of God and pitched a tent for it. 3. David brought the Ark of the Covenant to the City of David. 2 Samuel 6:12: Now it was told King David, saying, “The Lord has blessed the house of Obed-edom and all that belongs to him, on account of the ark of God.” David went and brought up the ark of God from the house of Obed-edom into the city of David with gladness. 4. David strongly desired to build a house for the Lord, but God said "no" because of all the bloodshed he had shed in battle. However, he made all the plans and prepared much of the materials his son, Solomon, would use to build the House of the Lord. 1 Chronicles 22:5: Now David said, “Solomon my son is young and inexperienced, and the house to be built for the Lord must be exceedingly magnificent, famous and glorious throughout all countries. I will now make preparation for it.” So David made abundant preparations before his death. 5. From David’s palace rooftop, he saw Bathsheba bathing and committed a serious sin. 2 Samuel 11:2: It happened, late one afternoon, when David arose from his couch and was walking on the roof of the king's house, that he saw from the roof a woman bathing; and the woman was very beautiful. 6. David died and was buried in the City of David. 1 Kings 2:10: Then David slept with his fathers and was buried in the city of David. David’s tomb is located close to the City of David. 7. King Solomon was anointed as king at the Gihon Spring. 1 Kings 1:45: Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet have anointed him king in Gihon, and they have come up from there rejoicing, so that the city is in an uproar. This is the noise which you have heard. 8. After David built his palace and much of the city of David, his son, Solomon, built the temple just north of the City of David. 1 Kings 6:1: In the four hundred and eightieth year after the people of Israel came out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon's reign over Israel, in the month of Ziv, which is the second month, he began to build the house of the Lord. 9. The people would go up from the City of David to the temple to worship God. Isaiah 2:3: And many peoples shall come, and say: “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.” 10. Later, King Hezekiah built a tunnel to divert the water from the Gihon Spring (the city’s water source) down to the Pool of Siloam to keep the water inside the city walls so warring armies (the Assyrians) couldn’t cut off the water to the city. 2 Chronicles 32:30: This same Hezekiah closed the upper outlet of the waters of Gihon and directed them down to the west side of the city of David. Faith Lesson from the City of David 1. The City of David has provided overwhelming archaeological evidence supporting the truthfulness of Scripture. Do we embrace these and many other pieces of evidence that yield more and more proof that the Bible is true and historically accurate? 2. The City of David, along with Jerusalem, was destroyed by the Babylonians because of Israel’s disobedience to God. Do we understand that obedience brings life and peace, but disobedience brings death and destruction? 3. In what areas of my life am I experiencing pain and problems because of disobedience to God’s Word?

May 1-17, 2026, Registration Form. In-depth 17-day Bible-centered Holy Land tour trip to Israel that allows you to see more holy sites in Israel. Holy Land Trip Registration Form May 1~17, 2 026 Trip How to Register and Secure Your Spot on the Holy Land Experience Trip of a Lifetime! 1. Fill out and submit the online registration form below. 2. Upon receiving and accepting your form, we will notify you of availability and acceptance into the tour trip group. 3. Upon acceptance into the group, please pay your $500 non-refundable deposit to confirm your spot. Registration Deposit Link Final Paym ent Link CONTACT INFO: Pastor Todd Fink Phone: (541) 603-0881 Email: holylandsite.com@gmail.com Website: HolyLandSite.com NEXT STEPS 1. Upon receiving and accepting your form, we will notify you of availability and acceptance into the tour trip group. 2. Upon acceptance into the group, please pay your $500 non-refundable deposit to confirm your spot. Registration Deposit Link Final Payment Link 3. In the meantime, check out our video teachings to the left or see other info about Holy Land Trip orientation, etc. CONTACT INFO: Pastor Todd Fink Phone: (541) 603-0881 Email: holylandsite.com@gmail.com Website: HolyLandSite.com TOUR HOSTS Dr. Todd & Letsy Fink - Tour Hosts More about the Finks

If you want an in-depth Bible-centered trip and see more holy sites in Israel than other tours, then this trip is designed for you. Holy Land Trips Final Payment Secure Payment Link Holy Land Trip Final Payment To complete your final deposit payment, please send your payment of $1,650 by either credit card, PayPal, or check. Payment can be made for more than one person if needed. If paying by credit card or PayPal, a 4% fee is added to your total amount due to fees charged by the credit card and PayPal providers. If paying by credit card or PayPal, click the button below. PayPal does not require you to create a PayPal account to use your credit card. $1,650.00 Final Payment Payment can be made for more than one person if needed. If paying by check, please send your check to the following address: Holy Land Site (Make checks payable to: Holy Land Site) 6945 Burnett St., SE Salem, OR, 97317-5202 (Using regular mail is preferred as there's not always someone available to sign for certified mail).

This video provides the most comprehensive and complete evidence that proves the original temple of Solomon, and the rebuilt temples of Zerubbabel and Herod the Great, were located on the Temple Mount, exactly where the Dome of the Rock is today. Today, some are promoting the theory that the Temple was in the City of David and that the Temple Mount was a Roman Fort. We will answer each of their arguments with facts, the Bible, archeology, and eyewitness accounts. Temple Location Photo Gallery Places of Interest Temple Mount Location Location 1. Archaeological discoveries now reveal the location of the original temple and Temple Mount Platform location of Solomon, Hezekiah, Zerubbabel, the Hasmoneans, and Herod's temple, wherein Christ ministered. 2. Today, a growing number of people claim that the temple and Temple Mount were located in the City of David. This is simply not true. Therefore, we will attempt to show, from Scripture, historical, archaeological, and practical reasons, why their claims are untrue. 3. The Temple Mount is located on the eastern side of Old City Jerusalem 4. It occupies 1/6 of the current city. 5. It is 35 acres (14 hectares) in size, the equivalent of 35 football fields. Historical Background 1. The Temple Mount has played a “center stage” role for much of Israel’s history and has functioned as the center of God’s dwelling place and ministry on this earth. 2. About one-tenth of all the stories about Jesus took place on the Temple Mount. 3. It will play a key part during the Millennial Reign of Christ on the earth as well. 4. God has chosen to focus His presence and attention there like a laser beam from heaven, like no other place. 5. Solomon built the first temple around 960 BC, which the Babylonians destroyed in 586 BC. 6. The second temple Zerubbabel oversaw after the deportation and return of the Jews. It was dedicated in 515 BC. 7. The Hasmoneans enlarged the Temple Mount to the south around 140 BC. 8. King Herod enlarged the Temple Mount and rebuilt the temple that Zerubbabel had built around 19 BC. It would seem that this would be called the third temple, but because Herod built a new temple over it and then removed the old one inside, it is still referred to as the second temple. Following is a 10-part series done by Leen Ritmeyer, who is probably the leading archaeologist on the Temple Mount and its history: 1. Mount Moriah 2. The Temple Mount During the Jebusite Period 3. The Temple Mount During the Time of Solomon 4. The Temple Mount During the time of King Hezekiah 5. The Temple Mount During the Times of Ezra and Nehemiah 6. The Temple Mount During the Hellenistic and Hasmonean Periods 7. The Temple Mount During the Herodian Period 8. The Temple Mount During the Roman Period 9. The Temple Mount During the Byzantine Period 10. The Temple Mount in the Early Muslim Period Places of Interest 1 . Location of Solomon's original Temple Mount Platform. Archaeological, historical, and eyewitness accounts place the location of the first and second temples directly on top of the Dome of the Rock. According to the Mishnah (Jewish writings about different aspects of Jewish laws, customs, measurements, and so forth), the original Temple Mount Platform measured 500 cubits square. Using the royal cubit, which was the standard measurement of the time (20.67 inches, or 525 mm long), Solomon's original Temple Mount Platform measured 861 feet, or 262.5 meters, in length. Amazingly, evidence supports these exact measurements on each side of Solomon's original platform. 2. The Southwest corner of the original Temple Mount Platform that Solomon built. This can be located by archaeology at Barclay's Gate. 3. Western side of original platform. Warren's Gate: Evidence can be seen by an additional gate called “Warren’s Gate,” which can be found butted up against the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform beneath the platform surface. Western Wall location today. 4. Dome of the Rock Platform Solomon's original Temple Mount Platform was at approximately the same level. 5. Northwestern Corner of Solomon's Original Temple Platform Evidence from massive stones dating back to the time of Solomon or Hezekiah is visible today. They run parallel with the Eastern Wall. The boss can't be seen today as it has been covered with stone tiles, but photos from the 1960s show the boss. The boss style is from the time of Solomon or Hezekiah. This same style of stone can be seen at the base of the Eastern Gate. The distance from this corner to the eastern wall of the Temple Mount platform is exactly 500 cubits, 861 ft., or 262.5 m. 6. Antonia Fortress The Jewish historian Josephus writes that it was built on bedrock. You can see the bedrock on which it was built. Currently, a grade school is located there. On the steps leading up from the Temple Mount to the Antonia Fortress, Paul addressed the crowd below. Acts 21:34-36: Some in the crowd were shouting one thing, some another. And as he could not learn the facts because of the uproar, he ordered him to be brought into the barracks. 35 And when he came to the steps , he was actually carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the crowd, 36 for the mob of the people followed, crying out, “Away with him!” The rock face has holes or sockets where beams were attached for the portico that ran along its southern side. 7. Northern Side of the Original Temple Mount Platform This is on the same line as the northern part of the Dome of the Rock platform today. Evidence of a pre-Herodian wall was found underground by cistern 29. 8. Eastern Side of the Original Temple Mount Platform Just north of where the northern wall of the 500-cubit mount platform meets the Eastern Wall, we find an offset in the wall located 68 feet, or 20.73 meters, to the north. This offset indicates that a tower once stood at this corner for protection purposes. Measuring from where the northern wall of the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform meets the Eastern Wall, we find a curious bend in the wall at exactly 861 feet or 262.5 meters. This bend in the wall resulted from later construction added to the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform during the Hasmonean period, around 140 BC. Their construction used a slightly different angle than the original platform. Also, there is a change in the stone style. The stones after the bend have a boss shape that dates to the Hasmonean period. The stone positioning and configurations also indicate that a corner was once located at this bend in the wall. Farther down the Eastern Wall, we see a seam in the construction. The stone styles change, and the stones are butted against one another. This marks the beginning of Herod the Great's expansion of the Temple Mount Platform. 9. Eastern Gate In the Eastern Gate area, we also see ancient stones with boss shapes that date back to the time of Solomon or Hezekiah. It is worth noting that the location of the Eastern Wall remained unchanged throughout the entire history of the Temple Mount. This is due to the Kidron Valley and its steep decline on this side. So, again, these ancient stones reveal that the Eastern side of the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform dates back to the time of Solomon or Hezekiah. 10. Solomon's Portico Important gathering place. Acts 5:12: Now many signs and wonders were regularly done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon's Portico . 11. Muslim Excavations In 1999, when the WAQF, the Jordanian body that retains authority over the Temple Mount and other Muslim holy places, used bulldozers to remove some 10,000 tons of dirt (400 dump truck loads) from the area known as King Solomon’s Stables to create an emergency exit for the Marwani Mosque, which can accommodate 10,000 people. This was dumped in the Kidron Valley. Israelis took this dirt to a location on Mount Scopus, where it is now being sifted. This is known as the "Sifting Project." Its contents reveal overwhelming evidence that the Temple Mount is the authentic location of the original temple. The original stone tiles of Herod's renovated Temple Mount Platform have been found. Until 1920, Muslim pamphlets describing the Dome of the Rock stated that it was built directly over the site where the original temple once stood. Today, the stairs descend to the Al-Marwani Mosque, inaugurated in 1996, located under the Temple Mount in the area once called Solomon's Stables by the Crusaders. 12. Royal Stoa It is most likely that Pentecost happened at the southern end of the Temple Mount in the area of the Royal Stoa. It is unlikely that Pentecost occurred in the Upper Room as a multitude gathered and witnessed this astounding event. The Upper Room couldn’t have handled such a large crowd of 15,000–30,000. Scripture says the coming of the Holy Spirit filled a house. It doesn’t mention the Upper Room. In many places in the Bible, the temple is referred to as the House of the Lord or just the house. The Hebrew word for "house" in Acts 2:2 is "Har Ha Bait," which means "the mountain of THE house," or "the dwelling place of God." "House" can also refer to just a covered area. At the southern side of the Temple Mount, just above the Southern Stairs, was the Royal Stoa. The coming of the Holy Spirit happened at 9:00 a.m., which was the time of morning prayers at the temple. The disciples frequently visited the temple during these times of prayer. The Temple Mount and Southern Stair area could easily have accommodated the large crowd of 15,000–30,000 who gathered at Pentecost. Acts 2:41 says 3,000 were saved and baptized. Around the Southern Stairs are many mikveh cleansing pools that could have been used to baptize those who were saved. The southern part of the Temple Mount would have been a natural place for Pentecost to occur, as it was a center of public activity. The Upper Room area was a residential neighborhood, and there's no reason 15,000-30,000 people would have been there when the events of Pentecost happened that drew such a large crowd. This area also had all the mikvehs necessary for baptizing and space to handle such a large crowd. 13. Southern Stairs Area 14. South end of the Temple Mount Platform: slightly different length, measured 495 cubits, 853 ft., 260 m. It's believed that this was due to the Ophel rise, which made it difficult to build over. 15. Al Aqsa Mosque It was built around 685 to 715 AD. It has been rebuilt and restored many times. When the Crusaders were in control, they referred to it as "The Temple of Solomon." Only Muslims are allowed inside. The Israeli police may enter only if necessary. The mosque can hold around 5,000 people. 16. Ancient Stone Steps These are original stones from the time of Herod or earlier, which would have been steps leading from the Court of the Gentiles to the Outer Court of the Temple. 17. Dome of the Rock It was built in 691 AD. It sits exactly over where the original temples stood. Inside is a square that is the shape of the Ark of the Covenant. When the Crusaders were in control, they referred to it as "The Temple of the Lord." It is a Muslim shrine today. Only Muslims may enter. All others by permission only. 18. Recycled Decorated Stone from a Byzantine Church This is found at the base of the Dome of the Rock, just to the right of the main entrance facing east. This was placed here during Turkish times. It has some crosses that have been scratched away. 19. Baptistry Chapel from the Byzantine Period The baptismal tank is near the chapel. 20. The Temple Treasury Located on the north side of the Temple sanctuary. The most notable words of Jesus in this location are “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12), “The truth will set you free” (John 8:32), and ‘Before Abraham was, I am” (John 8:58). About one-tenth of all the stories about Jesus took place on the Temple Mount. 21. Dome of the Spirits Also known as the Dome of the Tablets, this small dome was constructed around 950 AD during the Muslim Umayyad Period. One theory suggests that it is located above the “Spirits Cave,” where the spirits of the dead gather for prayer. Another theory claims that it is called the Dome of the Tablets, referring to the tablets that were kept inside the Ark of the Covenant, implying that this might be the location of the Holy of Holies – a theory with which most scholars disagree. It was built on a large Herodian paving stone, which measures 12 feet (3.70m) by 11.5 feet (3.50m). According to Warren’s survey maps, it is situated approximately 10 feet (3m) above the natural bedrock. It was part of the pavement that was laid north of the buildings that surrounded the Temple. 22. Original Temple Location Holy of Holies According to the Mishnah, only a rectangular depression in the bedrock remained where the Ark once stood. This exact shape has been identified inside the Dome of the Rock. Holy Place Altar Nicanor Gate/Beautiful Gate Inner Court Outer Court Court of the Gentiles 23. Dome of the Chain Located just east of the Dome of the Rock, this would be the place where the Holy Place of the original temples was located. 24. Dome of the Prophet Located just northwest of the Dome of the Rock Built in 1539 AD, it is traditionally believed that on this spot, Muhammad led the former Jewish prophets (including Jesus) and angels in prayer on the night he ascended into heaven. 25. Dome of the Ascension Located just north of the Dome of the Prophet. It was built sometime between the 7th and 10th centuries AD. Some believe it was built on the spot from which Muhammad ascended into Heaven on his night journey. The Original Temple Mount Platform Location 1. It was not in the City of David but on Mount Moriah, where the Temple Mount Platform is today. After Solomon built the temple, he brought the Ark of the Covenant out of the City of David to the temple on Mt. Moriah. 2 Chronicles 5:2: "Then Solomon assembled to Jerusalem the elders of Israel and all the heads of the tribes, the leaders of the fathers’ households of the sons of Israel, to bring up the ark of the covenant of the Lord out of the City of David , which is Zion." 2. The Northern Part of the Original Temple Mount Platform According to the Mishnah (Jewish writings about different aspects of Jewish laws, customs, measurements, and so forth), the original Temple Mount Platform measured 500 cubits square. Using the royal cubit, which was the universal measurement of these times, would be 861 feet, or 262.4 m eters in length. Amazingly, the measurement from the corner of this Pre-Herodian stone step is exactly 861 feet or 262.4 meters to the Eastern Wall. This northern edge of the original Temple Mount Platform also aligns with the current Dome of the Rock Platform. Additional evidence of a pre-Herodian wall can also be found underground by cistern 29. Considering these factors, we now have strong evidence of the location of the northern wall of the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform. Next, we come to the Eastern Wall. Just north of where the northern wall of the 500-cubit mount platform meets the eastern wall, we find an offset in the wall located 68 feet, or 20.73 meters, to the north. This offset indicates that a tower once stood at this corner for protection purposes. 3. The Eastern Part of the Original Temple Mount Platform Measuring from where the northern wall of the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform meets the Eastern wall, we find a curious bend in the wall at exactly 861 feet or 262.5 meters. This bend in the wall resulted from later construction added to the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform during the Hasmonean period, around 140 BC. Their construction used a slightly different angle than the original platform. Also, there is a change in the stone style. The stones after the bend have a boss shape that dates to the Hasmonean period. The stone positioning and configurations also indicate that a corner was once located at this bend in the wall. This archaeological evidence reveals that this point was the corner of the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform. Again, this section of the Eastern Wall measures exactly 861 feet, or 262.5 meters, which is 500 cubits. In this Eastern Gate area, we also see ancient stones with boss shapes that date back to the time of Solomon or Hezekiah. It should be noted that the Eastern Wall location remained unchanged throughout the entire history of the Temple Mount. This is due to the Kidron Valley and its steep decline on this side. So, again, these ancient stones reveal that the Eastern side of the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform dates back to the time of Solomon or Hezekiah. 4. The Southern Part of the Original Temple Mount Platform Next, we’ll look at the southern wall of the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform. Measuring 495 Cubits, 853 feet, 260 meters from the southwest corner of the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform, which has a bend in the wall, we come to the entrance of Barclay’s Gate. This gate was built later by Herod and was butted up against the southern wall of the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform. This slightly different measurement amounts to less than 1% and was probably the result of the two corners being obscured by the elevation of Mt. Moriah between them. 5. The Western Part of the Original Temple Mount Platform The Western Wall section of the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform can be located by the established corners of the northwest and southwest corners and measures exactly 861 feet (262.5 meters). Additionally, the Excavations of Barclay's Gate show this corner as well. More evidence can be seen by an additional gate called “Warren’s Gate,” which can be found butted up against the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform. In summary, we see overwhelming evidence of the original 500-cubit-square Temple Mount Platform. Evidence of the Enlargements of the Temple Mount Platform We can also see the evidence of the Hasmonean and Herodian additions to the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform. Hasmonian Enlargement In around 141 BC, the Hasmoneans added a section to the southern part of the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform. Again, this is evident in the bend of the Eastern Wall and the varied stone styles employed. Herod the Great Enlargement Herod the Great embarked on a massive expansion of the Temple Mount Platform around 19 BC. Josephus, the Jewish historian who lived around the time of Christ, describes how he doubled the size of the Temple Mount after the Hasmonean expansion. He enlarged it to the south, west, and north. Today, we see this evidence throughout the expansion sections. One key place is the expansion of the southern part of the Eastern Wall. A notable seam in the wall reveals Herod’s expansion, which was added to the Hasmonean expansion. This seam clearly shows the change from Hasmonean to Herodian stone styles. The location and configuration of the Hasmonean and Herodian stones indicate that this was once a corner. Additionally, the Herodian stones along the Western Wall section attest to Herod’s expansion on this side. Additionally, at the northern wall of the Temple Mount are holes that indicate the location of a former portico. Again, the Eastern Wall of the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform was never altered; it was merely repaired and extended to the southern end. Evidence Inside the Dome of the Rock T he location of the original temples can also be established with certainty. Inside the Dome of the Rock is the highest point of Mt. Moriah. On this massive stone, a cut-out square can be seen that once housed the Ark of the Covenant, and to the sides, the foundations of the Holy of Holies. It should be noted that the altar that David purchased from Arunah the Jebusite was just east of the top of the mountain in a flatter area. Here you can see where the altar would have been located in relation to the rock inside the Dome of the Rock. How Was the Temple Mount Supplied with Water for Sacrifices and Purification Needs? 1. The requirement for living water was only needed for three purposes: (1) defilement by a corpse (Num. 19:17), (2) by a non-routine bodily discharge (Lev. 15:11), or (3) by leprosy (Lev. 14:5, 50). In these instances, part of the purification process requires the use of water that flows continuously. In all other cases of defilement, purification is accomplished by washing in water, without requiring running water. 2. There were massive cisterns on the Temple Mount (around 37), totaling more than 10.5 million gallons or over 40 million liters of water. Many of these cisterns date to the time of Solomon, Hezekiah, and Zerubbabel. 3. There are around 16 cisterns that are in the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform Solomon and Hezekiah built. All these water sources supplied more than enough water for the temple's use. 4. There were other large pools north of the Temple Mount as well. The need for living water was met by the close-by pools that had living water running through them (for example, the Pools of Bethesda, Pool of Siloam, and the Pool of Israel). These three pools alone provided over 54 million gallons, or approximately 205 million liters, of water. 5. A recent discovery close to the southwestern side of the Temple Mount shows a massive cistern that was fed from water from the Tyropean Valley. 6. There were aqueducts from Bethlehem to the Temple Mount that existed in at least 250 BC that supplied living water to the temple. Many archaeologists believe that the aqueducts date back to the time of Solomon. 7. There are 50-plus mikvehs on the southern steps and on the west side of the Temple Mount. The Temple Mount in the Bible 1. The Temple Mount is also called Mount Moriah and was the place where Abraham was to sacrifice his son Isaac to God. Genesis 22:1–2: After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, "Abraham!" And he said, "Here am I." 2 He said, "Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you." 2. King David purchased the original Temple Mount when it was a threshing floor to build an altar to the Lord. 1 Chronicles 21:18: Now the angel of the LORD had commanded Gad to say to David that David should go up and raise an altar to the LORD on the threshing floor of Ornan [also called Araunah] the Jebusite. 3. King Solomon then built the Temple in this exact location. 2 Chronicles 3:1: Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah, where the LORD had appeared to David his father, at the place that David had appointed, on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite. 4. During the dedication of Solomon’s temple, the glory of the Lord filled it in such a way that the priests had to suspend their activities until God’s glory subsided. 1 Kings 8:10–11: And when the priests came out of the Holy Place, a cloud filled the house of the LORD, 11 so that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD. 5. The prophets spoke to the nation of Israel from the Temple Mount. 6. The first temple was destroyed in 586 BC by Babylon because of Israel’s continued disobedience to God. 2 Kings 24:10: At that time the servants of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up to Jerusalem, and the city was besieged. 7. The temple was rebuilt again from 538-515 BC under Zerubbabel. Ezra 6:3: In the first year of Cyrus the king, Cyrus the king issued a decree: Concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, let the house be rebuilt, the place where sacrifices were offered, and let its foundations be retained. Its height shall be sixty cubits and its breadth sixty cubits. 8. Nehemiah rebuilt the wall of Jerusalem in 444 BC. Nehemiah 2:17: Then I said to them, "You see the trouble we are in, how Jerusalem lies in ruins with its gates burned. Come, let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer suffer derision. 9. The Temple Mount was enlarged enormously by King Herod in 19 BC to the size it is today. God, in His sovereignty, made the Temple Mount large enough to accommodate the crowds Jesus would teach, the 3,000 saved at Pentecost, the 5,000 saved in Acts 4, and a place where the Early Church could meet and grow. 10. Herod also made the temple more beautiful than any before it, and it was three times bigger than the current Dome of the Rock. 11. Zachariah received the vision of having a son, John the Baptist, while serving at the temple. Luke 1:13: But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John.” 12. Jesus was dedicated to the Lord at the temple. Luke 2:22: And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord. 13. At the age of 12, Jesus appeared and dialogued with the religious leaders at the temple. Luke 2:46–47: After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. 14. The temple was where the Devil tempted Christ to throw himself down headlong. Luke 4:9–12: And he took him to Jerusalem and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, 10 for it is written, "'He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you,' 11 and "'On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.'" 12 And Jesus answered him, "It is said, 'You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'" 15. Christ taught at the temple frequently. Luke 19:47: And he was teaching daily in the temple. 16. Christ drove out the moneychangers on the Temple Mount. Mark 11:15–17: And they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. 16 And he would not allow anyone to carry anything through the temple. 17 And he was teaching them and saying to them, "Is it not written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations'? But you have made it a den of robbers." 17. Christ was tried before Pilate close by at Herod's Palace. 18. Next to the Temple Mount, at the Southern Stairs, is the likely place where Pentecost took place, 3,000 were saved, and the Early Church was born. Acts 2:41: Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. 19. A lame man was healed on the Temple Mount by Peter and John, causing 5,000 men to be saved. Acts 3:1–8: Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. 2 And a man lame from birth was being carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple that is called the Beautiful Gate to ask alms of those entering the temple. 3 Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to receive alms. 4 And Peter directed his gaze at him, as did John, and said, "Look at us." 5 And he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them. 6 But Peter said, "I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!" 7 And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. 8 And leaping up he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. Acts 4:4: But many of those who had heard the word believed, and the number of the men came to about five thousand. 20. The Temple Mount became the meeting place of the Early Church. Acts 2:46–47: And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. 21. Close to the Temple Mount, Stephen was martyred (Acts 7). 22. Because Israel rejected Christ as their Messiah, Jerusalem and the Temple Mount were destroyed in 70 AD by the Romans. Luke 19:41–44: And when he drew near and saw the city, he wept over it, 42 saying, "Would that you, even you, had known on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. 43 For the days will come upon you, when your enemies will set up a barricade around you and surround you and hem you in on every side 44 and tear you down to the ground, you and your children within you. And they will not leave one stone upon another in you, because you did not know the time of your visitation. 23. The Anti-Christ will commit the abomination of desolation on the Temple Mount during the middle of the Tribulation Period. 2 Thessalonians 2:3–4: Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, 4 who opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God , displaying himself as being God. 24. Christ will reign from the Temple Mount (along with believers) for 1,000 years after the Tribulation Period. Revelation 20:6: Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection! Over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years. Faith Lesson from the Temple Mount 1. In the Old Testament, the temple was a focal place where God dwelt; in the New Testament, believers are now the temple in which God dwells. 1 Corinthians 3:16–17: Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple. 2. What kind of temple are we?

Mount Arbel, by the Sea of Galilee, is the most likely place Jesus gave the Great Commission to go into all the world and preach the Gospel. Magdala, Gennesaret (Ginasor), Place where Christ called several of His disciples, Chorazin, Tabgha - The likely place Christ restored Peter to ministry, Mount of Beatitudes, Capernaum, Bethsaida, Bethsaida Lookout, Feeding the 5,000, Feeding the 4,000, Kursi, Horvat Susita, Place Jesus walked on water and calmed the sea. Mt. Arbel Photo Gallery Places of Interest Mount Arbel Introduction Welcome to Mount Arbel. This is a significant site in the Bible where one of the most important events occurred. 1. It's the believed place where Christ gave the Great Commission. 2. It has a breathtaking view of the Sea of Galilee, where you can see all the major sites around it. 3. Christ spent around 70% of His ministry time around its shore. We'll look at these places and soak them in. Location 1. Mount Arbel is located on the west side of the Sea of Galilee and the tallest mountain around the Sea of Galilee. 2. It has a spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee, which is about 8 miles (12 km.) wide, and about 13 miles (21 km.) long. 3. It rises about 1,200 ft. (365 m.) above the Sea of Galilee. 4. It has on its eastern side a cliff that drops right down to the Sea of Galilee basin. 5. This cliff has many natural caves that have been used throughout history for battles and protection purposes. Historical Background 1. History and tradition locate Mount Arbel as the place where Christ gave the Great Commission mandate to go into all the world and preach the gospel. 2. Many theologians believe this is the place because it is the tallest mountain in the area and provides a perfect view of the Sea of Galilee. 3. Because Christ spent around 60% to 70% of His ministry time around the Sea of Galilee, Mount Arbel would have provided the perfect backdrop as Christ gave His disciples the powerful Great Commission mandate. From this location, we can easily see the following: Magdala Gennesaret (Ginasor) The area where Christ likely called several of His disciples Chorazin Tabgha - The likely place Christ restored Peter to ministry Mount of Beatitudes Capernaum Bethsaida Bethsaida Lookout Feeding the 5,000 Feeding the 4,000 Kursi Horvat Susita Where Jesus walked on water and calmed the sea 4. The Great Commission was one of the last contacts Christ had with His disciples, which shows the importance of this commandment. 5. The cliffs of Mount Arbel have natural caves that have been used as shelters for rebels against Herod the Great, revolts against the Romans, and later periods. The ruins of Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine villages lie below the cliffs and on its southwestern side. Places of Interest (Please See Maps Above) 1. Park Entrance 2. Lookout location 3. Arbel Cliffs 4. Magdala 5. Sea of Galilee 6. Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine villages that lie below the cliffs. 7. Ancient Synagogue 8. Fortress 9. Hiking trail Mount Arbel in the Bible 1. Mount Arbel is the believed place where Christ gave the Great Commission. Matthew 28:16-20: Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17 And when they saw him, they worshiped him, but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” 2. What does the phrase “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” mean? Colossians 1:15–17: He [Christ] is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation [ The Greek word for “firstborn” is proto-tikto which would give us the meaning of “pre-eminence,” and that is what we find here in Colossians 1:15. The Greek word for “first created” would be proto-ktizo, and it is not used here]. 16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him, all things hold together. Christ is the image of the invisible God. He is God in the flesh so we can understand and know Him better. Christ created all things in heaven and on earth. He created all thrones, dominions, rulers, authorities, and rules over them. He is the head of all things. All of creation is held together and sustained by His power. 3. During Christ’s ministry on earth, He performed every class of miracle to show He was Lord of every aspect of creation. Sickness – Christ healed every kind of sickness among countless people. Demons and the demonic world – Christ repeatedly cast out demons from many people. Weather – Christ calmed the sea and storms. Nature – Christ cursed a fig tree, and it died. Animals – Christ cast out demons into a herd of swine, He performed the miraculous catches of fish, and He rode into Jerusalem on an untamed donkey. Food – Christ fed 5,000 and 4,000 people. The authority to forgive sins. Only God has this authority, so Christ showed Himself as being fully God. Death – Christ raised numerous people from the dead, and He Himself rose from the dead. 4. Every knee in heaven and earth will bow before the authority of Christ. Philippians 2:9–11: Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 5. Based upon the authority that Christ possesses, He commands us to go and make disciples. Matthew 28:19–20: Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. Faith Lesson from Mount Arbel 1. All authority in heaven and earth has been given to Christ. Do we truly believe this? 2. We are all called to be missionaries. Acts 1:8: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” 3. Missionary means “Sent One.” 4. Most missionary work is done locally in our own Jerusalem, as most are not called to foreign missions. 5. Just because we are not foreign missionaries does not mean we aren’t a missionary at our local level. 6. Making disciples entails evangelizing. 7. In supporting foreign missions, there are a few ways we can be involved: We can be goers. We can be supporters by helping financially. We can be encouragers to those in the field. We can be helpers when missionaries return from the field and need help back home. We can be prayer supporters. Am I involved in foreign missions in at least one of the above ways? 8. In fulfilling the Great Commission, it’s not just enough to be a good person and hope our life will show others we’re different. We are commanded to go and speak! 9. While baptism does not save us, we are to emphasize it and baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Have I been baptized and encourage others to be baptized as well? 10. We are to teach others to obey all Christ has commanded. Am I involved in doing this? 11. We have the promise that the one who has all authority in heaven and on earth will be with us as we go to evangelize and make disciples. We should realize that: We are not alone in fulfilling the Great Commission but have Christ present and supernaturally helping us. We have all the power and authority necessary in Christ, our helper, so we don’t need to fear any demonic or contrary force. 12. Do I realize Christ is with me in every aspect as I strive to fulfill the Great Commission?

The site has 26 burial niches and two adjoining burial caves. According to medieval Jewish tradition, the tombs are those of the prophets Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, who lived in the 6th and 5th centuries BC. Mount of Olives, Kidron Valley, Jerusalem. Tombs of the Prophets Photo Gallery Places of Interest Tombs of the Prophets Introduction This site, situated on the Mount of Olives, claims to be the burial place of the last three prophets of the Old Testament. It's pretty remarkable to explore the cave complex and see its tombs, along with nearly 50 other tombs. 1. This underground burial site is traditionally believed to be the resting place of the prophets Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. 2. Visitors can walk through its central hall and narrow passageways lined with around 50 burial rock-cut tombs. 3. Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi are the last books of the Old Testament. 4. According to historical records, artifacts, inscriptions, and Jewish tradition, the tombs are believed to be those of the prophets Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, who lived in the 6th and 5th centuries BC. 5. We're going to be going down into the cave complex and seeing these tombs. We'll witness and see the tombs of the last three prophets of the Old Testament. Location 1. The Tombs of the Prophets are located at the top of the Mount of Olives at the beginning of the Triumphal Entry descent. 2. Just above it is a popular viewing terrace of Old City Jerusalem. Historical Background 1. The site has 50 burial niches and two adjoining burial caves. 2. According to books, artifacts, inscriptions, and Jewish tradition, the tombs are those of the prophets Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, who lived in the 6th and 5th centuries BC. 3. Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi are the last books of the Old Testament. 4. Both Jews and Christians venerate the site as the tombs of these prophets. 5. Inscriptions indicate that the site was also used for the burial of Christians in the Byzantine period. 6. The property is currently owned and operated by the Russian Orthodox Church. Places of Interest 1. The tombs of the prophets 2. Mount of Olives 3. Viewing terrace above the tombs 4. Triumphal Entry path 5. Old City Jerusalem The Role of the Prophets in the Bible 1. A prophet was someone called by God to communicate a needed message to God’s people or surrounding nations. 2. Prophets were also called seers because God gave them a special ability to discern and know the future. 1 Samuel 9:9: Formerly in Israel, when a man went to inquire of God, he used to say, “Come, and let us go to the seer”; for he who is called a prophet now was formerly called a seer. 3. The prophet had two roles: (1) to speak forth God’s truth, and (2) to predict the future. 4. A prophet was to deliver God’s message accurately and responsibly, and if they didn’t, they were held accountable. Ezekiel 33:7–9: Now as for you, son of man, I have appointed you a watchman for the house of Israel; so you will hear a message from My mouth and give them warning from Me. 8 When I say to the wicked, ‘O wicked man, you will surely die,’ and you do not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity, but his blood I will require from your hand. 9 But if you on your part warn a wicked man to turn from his way and he does not turn from his way, he will die in his iniquity, but you have delivered your life. 5. A prophet sometimes had a unique appearance, i.e., Elijah, John the Baptist, etc. 6. A prophet often led a hard life and was generally rejected by those to whom they spoke. Isaiah 6:8–10: Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” 9 He said, “Go, and tell this people: ‘Keep on listening, but do not perceive; keep on looking, but do not understand.’ 10 “Render the hearts of this people insensitive, their ears dull, and their eyes dim, otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and return and be healed.” 7. The prophets came from all kinds of backgrounds, used various methods, and spoke to many different audiences. Faith Lesson from the Role of the Prophets 1. Today, we are called to be small “p” prophets who speak God’s Word to those around us like the prophets of old did. 2. Like the Old Testament prophets, those to whom we are called to speak often reject and persecute us. 3. And like the Old Testament prophets, our lives can be difficult, lonely, and hard for standing up for the truth. 4. We must know God's Word well in order to share it accurately (2 Tim. 2:15). 5. We are called to speak the truth in love, but nonetheless, we must speak the truth regardless of how others might receive it.

Jacob's Well in Shechem (Sychar) is the place where Jesus met the Samaritan woman. Shechem is also where Abraham & Jacob lived. Joshua rallied the nation of Israel together and gave the curses and blessings on Mt. Gerizim and Mt. Ebal. The nation of Israel was divided at Shechem. Tel Balata, Joshua’s Stone, Mount Gerizim, Mount Ebal, Joshua’s Rectangular Altar, Circular Altar below Rectangular Altar (possibly from Abraham or Jacob), Jacob’s Well, Joseph’s Tomb, Modern Shechem (Nablus), Sychar Shechem Photo Gallery Places of Interest Shechem Introduction Welcome to Shechem. Shechem had a significant role in the Bible and is mentioned 58 times. These are the highlights. 1. Shechem is the place where God first appeared to Abraham after he entered the Promised Land. 2. It was at Shechem where Jacob settled after reuniting with his estranged brother, Esau, upon his return from Paddan-aram. 3. The defilement of Dinah, Jacob’s daughter, took place at Shechem. 4. To the rich pastureland near Shechem, Joseph came to seek his brethren and was sold into slavery and taken to Egypt. 5. The bones of Joseph were buried in Shechem. 6. On the mountains of Gerizim and Ebal, Moses commanded the Israelites to pronounce blessings and curses for their obedience or disobedience to Him. 7. When his end was approaching, Joshua gathered the tribes of Israel at Shechem and gave them his final words of counsel and exhortation. Afterward, he erected a large stone as a monument to mark the covenant with the people and God. This stone can be seen today at Tel Balata. 8. At Shechem, the nation of Israel became divided, and Jeroboam reigned over the northern section (Israel) and Rehoboam over the southern section (Judah). 9. King Jeroboam fortified Shechem, and it became the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel. Jeroboam ordered that two golden calves be erected in Bethel and Dan. 10. Later, Shechem became the central city of the Samaritans, who built their own temple on Mt. Gerizim. 11. Shechem, called Sychar, is the place where Jesus met a woman at Jacob’s well and conversed with her. Location 1. Biblical Shechem is also known as Sychar in the New Testament and as Tel Balata and Nablus today. 2. Shechem is located about 30 miles (48 km) north of Jerusalem and about 30 miles (48 km) northeast of Tel Aviv. 3. It was in the Samaria region of Israel in the territory of Ephraim during Bible times. 4. It was on a main north-south travel route that linked the northern and southern parts of Israel. 5. It was also on a main east-west route that linked the coastal plain of Israel with the Jordan Valley. 6. Shechem lies between the two famous mountains of Gerizim and Ebal. Places of Interest 1. Tel Balata Mount Ebal ~ Place of cursings for disobedience. Altar built on Mount Ebal (need for forgiveness) Joshua’s Rectangular Altar Circular Altar below Rectangular Altar (possibly that of Abraham or Jacob) Mount Gerizim ~ Place of blessings for obedience. Northwest Gate City Wall Joshua’s Stone ~ Erected after Joshua renewed the covenant with the Israelites shortly before his death. Fortress Temple ~ Built shortly after Gideon. Sacred Courtyard Houses Eastern Gate 3. Jacob’s Well 4. Joseph’s Tomb 5. Modern Shechem (Nablus) 6. Sychar History of the Samaritans on Mount Gerizim 1. The Samaritans were Israelites who remained in the land of Israel and intermarried with foreign unbelievers after the deportation of Israel by the Assyrians in 722 BC. 2. They established their own religion at Mount Gerizim and built their own temple. They were despised and rejected by the Jews and considered unclean. The Samaritans, likewise, despised the Jews and had few dealings with them. 3. The Samaritans only believe in the Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament). 4. The Samaritans worshiped on top of Mount Gerizim, and there are substantial ruins there today. The Samaritans first built a temple here for worship in the 5th century. Later, in the 2nd century, they built walls around the temple to protect it. In the latter part of the 2nd century, the Hasmoneans (Jewish rule from 165–63 BC) destroyed the Samaritans’ temple on Mount Gerizim and the city at the base of the mountain (ancient Shechem). During the Roman occupation of Israel, the Samaritans were permitted by the Romans to rebuild their temple and city. In 475 AD, under Byzantine rule, the Samaritan temple was destroyed, and a Byzantine church was erected. Later, a monastery was also built. 5. Jesus met with a Samaritan woman (John 4) at Jacob’s Well in Shechem. Today, this well is located in a Greek Orthodox church called "The Church of Jacob's Well." Shechem In the Bible 1. Shechem is the place where God first appeared to Abraham after he entered the Promised Land. Genesis 12:4–7: So Abram went, as the Lord had told him, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran. 5 And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and all their possessions that they had gathered, and the people that they had acquired in Haran, and they set out to go to the land of Canaan. When they came to the land of Canaan, 6 Abram passed through the land to the place at Shechem , to the oak of Moreh. At that time the Canaanites were in the land. 7 Then the Lord appeared to Abram and said, “To your offspring I will give this land .” So he built there an altar to the Lord , who had appeared to him. 2. It was at Shechem where Jacob settled after reuniting with his estranged brother, Esau, upon his return from Paddan-aram. Genesis 33:18–20: And Jacob came safely to the city of Shechem , which is in the land of Canaan, on his way from Paddan-aram, and he camped before the city. 19 And from the sons of Hamor, Shechem's father, he bought for a hundred pieces of money the piece of land on which he had pitched his tent. 20 There he erected an altar and called it El-Elohe-Israel (God; the God of Israel). 3. The defilement of Dinah, Jacob’s daughter, took place at Shechem. Genesis 34:1–4: Now Dinah, the daughter of Leah, whom she had borne to Jacob, went out to see the women of the land. 2 And when Shechem the son of Hamor the Hivite, the prince of the land, saw her, he seized her and lay with her and humiliated her. 3 And his soul was drawn to Dinah, the daughter of Jacob. He loved the young woman and spoke tenderly to her. 4 So Shechem spoke to his father Hamor, saying, “Get me this girl for my wife.” Genesis 34:25–27: On the third day, when they were sore [from being circumcised], two of the sons of Jacob, Simeon and Levi, Dinah's brothers, took their swords and came against the city while it felt secure and killed all the males. 26 They killed Hamor and his son Shechem with the sword and took Dinah out of Shechem's house and went away. 27 The sons of Jacob came upon the slain and plundered the city, because they had defiled their sister. 4. In Shechem, Jacob buried his foreign gods and committed himself entirely to the true and living God of his forefathers. Genesis 35:4: So they gave to Jacob all the foreign gods that they had, and the rings that were in their ears. Jacob hid them under the terebinth tree that was near Shechem . 5. To the rich pastureland near Shechem, Joseph came to seek his brethren and was sold into slavery and taken to Egypt. Genesis 37:12–14: Now his brothers went to pasture their father's flock near Shechem . 13 And Israel said to Joseph, “Are not your brothers pasturing the flock at Shechem? Come, I will send you to them.” And he said to him, “Here I am.” 14 So he said to him, “Go now, see if it is well with your brothers and with the flock, and bring me word.” So he sent him from the Valley of Hebron, and he came to Shechem . 6. The bones of Joseph were buried in Shechem. Joshua 24:32: Now they buried the bones of Joseph , which the sons of Israel brought up from Egypt, at Shechem , in the piece of ground which Jacob had bought from the sons of Hamor the father of Shechem for one hundred pieces of money; and they became the inheritance of Joseph’s sons. 7. On the mountains of Gerizim and Ebal, Moses commanded the Israelites to pronounce blessings and curses for their obedience or disobedience to Him. Deuteronomy 27:11–13: That day Moses charged the people, saying, 12 “When you have crossed over the Jordan, these shall stand on Mount Gerizim to bless the people : Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Joseph, and Benjamin. 13 And these shall stand on Mount Ebal for the curse : Reuben, Gad, Asher, Zebulun, Dan, and Naphtali.” The blessings and curses pronounced on Gerizim and Ebal would become the foundational reference point to which God would refer in punishing Israel and Judah by sending them wars, famines, and pestilences. Eventually, their disobedience would lead to their deportations. Because they had repeatedly broken the covenant on Gerizim and Ebal, they deserved the discipline God gave them. 8. As commanded by Moses, Joshua erected an altar on Mount Ebal with uncut stones. Deuteronomy 27:1–8: Now Moses and the elders of Israel commanded the people, saying, “Keep the whole commandment that I command you today. 2 And on the day you cross over the Jordan to the land that the Lord your God is giving you, you shall set up large stones and plaster them with plaster. 3 And you shall write on them all the words of this law, when you cross over to enter the land that the Lord your God is giving you, a land flowing with milk and honey, as the Lord, the God of your fathers, has promised you. 4 And when you have crossed over the Jordan, you shall set up these stones, concerning which I command you today, on Mount Ebal, and you shall plaster them with plaster. 5 And there you shall build an altar to the Lord your God, an altar of stones. You shall wield no iron tool on them; 6 you shall build an altar to the Lord your God of uncut stones . And you shall offer burnt offerings on it to the Lord your God, 7 and you shall sacrifice peace offerings and shall eat there, and you shall rejoice before the Lord your God. 8 And you shall write on the stones all the words of this law very plainly.” 9. When his end was approaching, Joshua gathered the tribes of Israel at Shechem and gave them his final words of counsel and exhortation. Afterward, he erected a large stone as a monument to mark the covenant with the people and God. This stone can be seen today at Tel Balata. Joshua 24:1: Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel to Shechem and summoned the elders, the heads, the judges, and the officers of Israel. And they presented themselves before God. Joshua 24:14–16: Now, therefore, fear the Lord and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. 15 And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord . Joshua 24:25–27: So Joshua made a covenant with the people that day, and put in place statutes and rules for them at Shechem . 26 And Joshua wrote these words in the Book of the Law of God. And he took a large stone and set it up there under the terebinth that was by the sanctuary of the Lord . 27 And Joshua said to all the people, “Behold, this stone shall be a witness against us, for it has heard all the words of the Lord that he spoke to us. Therefore, it shall be a witness against you, lest you deal falsely with your God.” 10. After God delivered the Israelites through the hand of Gideon, they turned their backs on God again and built a temple here to worship false gods. Judges 8:33-34: Then it came about, as soon as Gideon was dead, that the sons of Israel again committed infidelity with the Baals, and made Baal-berith their god . 34 So the sons of Israel did not remember the Lord their God, who had saved them from the hands of all their enemies on every side. 11. Abimelech, son of Gideon, reigned wickedly over Shechem for three years. It was he who burned down the fortress temple here called "El-Berith," and killed 1,000 people who had taken refuge in it. Later, he was killed by a woman who threw a millstone down on his head. Judges 9:46, 49: When all the leaders of the tower of Shechem heard about it, they entered the inner chamber of the temple of El-berith. 49 So all the people also cut down, each one, his branch and followed Abimelech, and put them on top of the inner chamber and set the inner chamber on fire over those inside, so that all the people of the tower of Shechem also died, about a thousand men and women. Judges 9:52-54:So Abimelech came to the tower and fought against it, and approached the entrance of the tower to burn it down with fire. 53 But a woman threw an upper millstone on Abimelech’s head, crushing his skull. 54 Then he called quickly to the young man, his armor bearer, and said to him, “Draw your sword and kill me, so that it will not be said of me, ‘A woman killed him.’” 12. At Shechem, the nation of Israel became divided, and Jeroboam reigned over the northern section (Israel) and Rehoboam over the southern section (Judah). 1 Kings 12:1–2: Rehoboam went to Shechem , for all Israel had come to Shechem to make him king. 2 And as soon as Jeroboam the son of Nebat heard of it (for he was still in Egypt, where he had fled from King Solomon), then Jeroboam returned from Egypt. 1 Kings 12:16–17: And when all Israel saw that the king (Rehoboam) did not listen to them, the people answered the king, “What portion do we have in David? We have no inheritance in the son of Jesse. To your tents, O Israel! Look now to your own house, David.” So Israel went to their tents. 17 But Rehoboam reigned over the people of Israel who lived in the cities of Judah. 13. King Jeroboam fortified Shechem, and it became the capital of the northern tribes of Israel. Jeroboam ordered that two golden calves be erected in Bethel and Dan. 1 Kings 12:25–29: Then Jeroboam built Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim and lived there . And he went out from there and built Penuel. 26 And Jeroboam said in his heart, “Now the kingdom will turn back to the house of David. 27 If this people go up to offer sacrifices in the temple of the Lord at Jerusalem, then the heart of this people will turn again to their lord, to Rehoboam king of Judah, and they will kill me and return to Rehoboam king of Judah.” 28 So the king took counsel and made two calves of gold. And he said to the people, “You have gone up to Jerusalem long enough. Behold your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.” 29 And he set one in Bethel, and the other he put in Dan. 14. Later, Shechem became the central city of the Samaritans, who built their own temple on Mt. Gerizim. 15. Shechem, called Sychar, is the place where Jesus met a woman at Jacob’s well and conversed with her. John 4:1–26: Now when Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus was making and baptizing more disciples than John 2 (although Jesus himself did not baptize, but only his disciples), 3 he left Judea and departed again for Galilee. 4 And he had to pass through Samaria. 5 So he came to a town of Samaria called Sychar, near the field that Jacob had given to his son Joseph . 6 Jacob's well was there; so Jesus, wearied as he was from his journey, was sitting beside the well. It was about the sixth hour. 7 A woman from Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give me a drink.” 8 (For his disciples had gone away into the city to buy food.) 9 The Samaritan woman said to him, “How is it that you, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a woman of Samaria?” (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.) 10 Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.” 11 The woman said to him, “Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep [120 feet, 40 m.]. Where do you get that living water? 12 Are you greater than our father Jacob? He gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his sons and his livestock.” 13 Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” 15 The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Go, call your husband, and come here.” 17 The woman answered him, “I have no husband.” Jesus said to her, “You are right in saying, ‘I have no husband’; 18 for you have had five husbands, and the one you now have is not your husband. What you have said is true.” 19 The woman said to him, “Sir, I perceive that you are a prophet. 20 Our fathers worshiped on this mountain [Gerizim] , but you say that in Jerusalem is the place where people ought to worship.” 21 Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe me, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. 22 You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23 But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. 24 God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” 25 The woman said to him, “I know that Messiah is coming (he who is called Christ). When he comes, he will tell us all things.” 26 Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am he.” John 4:39–42: Many Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman's testimony, “He told me all that I ever did.” 40 So when the Samaritans came to him, they asked him to stay with them, and he stayed there two days. 41 And many more believed because of his word. 42 They said to the woman, “It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.” Faith Lesson from Shechem 1. Of all the events that happened at Shechem, Jesus summed up God’s desire for us when He told the woman at the well, “The hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth ” (John 2:23–24). 2. Do we worship God in Spirit? 3. Do we walk in the Spirit and stay in close fellowship with God (Gal. 5:16–26)? 4. Do we worship God in truth? 5. Do we know God’s Word well and the truth it contains (2 Tim. 2:15)? 6. We will only know God to the degree we know His Word. How well do you know God?