Take a tour and see all the amazing events in the Bible that happened in Caesarea Maritima, Israel. It was built by Herod the Great about 25 to 13 BC as the port city called “Caesarea Maritima.” After the Apostle Paul received Christ, he was sent to Tarsus from here. Cornelius, the first Gentile to receive the Holy Spirit, lived here. The Apostle Paul stood trial here for his faith. The Apostle Paul was imprisoned here for 2 years because of his faith. Caesarea Maritima Overview Photo Gallery Caesarea Maritima Overview Introduction Welcome to Caesarea Maritima. Many events from the Bible took place here. Here are some of the highlights. After the Apostle Paul received Christ, he was sent to Tarsus from this seaport. Cornelius, the first Gentile to receive the Holy Spirit, lived here. Caesarea was the place where the Holy Spirit was given to the Gentiles. King Herod Agrippa the 1st, the son of Herod the Great, met his death in Caesarea. Philip the Evangelist lived in Caesarea. The Apostle Paul sailed to and from Caesarea on his missionary travels. The Apostle Paul stood trial here for his faith. The Apostle Paul was imprisoned here for 2 years because of his faith. It's possible that some of the Prison Epistles found in the New Testament were written in this location. After spending two years in prison in Caesarea, the Apostle Paul sailed from Caesarea to Rome, where he was tried for his faith. It was one of the key places where the gospel would be taken to the whole world. Many Christians would be martyred here at the Hippodrome for their refusal to deny Christ. We're going to be seeing all the sites where these events happened. It will be very meaningful and touching. Location Caesarea is located on the beautiful Mediterranean Sea, about 35 miles (56 km.) north of Joppa. Historical Background 1. 586-332 BC: Phoenician settlement. 2. 103 BC: Hasmonean conquest and occupation. 3. 22 BC: Construction of the massive city of Caesarea Maritima began during the reign of Herod the Great, who named the city in honor of Caesar Augustus. Like many of Herod’s construction projects, Caesarea was built to rival the grandest cities in the Roman world. Built over the small Phoenician village of Straton’s Tower, Herod’s city of Caesarea stretched across more than 150 acres. It featured a palace, civil halls, an amphitheater, a hippodrome, aqueducts, a high defense wall, and an exquisite temple dedicated to Rome and Augustus. It was built on the site of a Phoenician and Greek trade post known as Straton's Tower. The Phoenicians were maritime merchants of the ancient world. 4. It was named after the Roman Emperor, Augustus Caesar. Augustus Caesar was the first Roman Emperor to declare himself a god and demand to be worshiped. A temple was built here to honor and worship Caesar Augustus as a god. Interestingly, Christ was born in this time period and was viewed as a competing God. 5. King Herod the Great was the one who had all the children 2 years and younger slaughtered in Bethlehem in his attempt to kill Christ. He was a jealous king who feared losing his power and control. 6. King Herod built Caesarea out of nothing and was a master builder. Some of his major building projects included: This seaport of Caesarea An enlarged Temple Mount platform and temple in Jerusalem. Masada The Herodian by Bethlehem Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron Palace in Jericho 7. He was known for his building ventures, and no one equaled him in this respect. 8. Caesarea was the largest seaport in the Roman Empire during the time of Herod. 9. Caesarea was the capital of Israel during the time of Christ and the whole Roman occupation of Israel. 10. Herod's architects were the best in the world, even better than those of the Roman Empire. 11. During the Byzantine period, Caesarea became an important Christian center. During this period, the Byzantines built a church over the ruins of the temple built to worship Augustus Caesar. 12. The remains of a 5th-century synagogue found on the seashore north of the harbor have also been discovered. The rectangular building faces south towards Jerusalem. Architectural details were found in its ruins, including capitals with a carved menorah, a column inscribed with the name Shalom, and parts of a Hebrew inscription listing the twenty-four priestly courses in the Temple in Jerusalem. 13. The Church Father Origen founded a Christian academy in the city, which included a library of 30,000 manuscripts. At the beginning of the 4th century, the theologian Eusebius, who served as Bishop of Caesarea, composed here his monumental Historia Ecclesiastica on the beginnings of Christianity and the Onomasticon, a comprehensive geographical-historical study of the Holy Land. Places of Interest (Please See Map Above) 1. Crusader Fortress Entrance 2. Crusader Fortress 3. Lookout Point Only 20% of the city can be seen today Most of the city laid inland Cardo Residence Area of Cornelius Area Apostle Paul was Imprisoned 4. Temple to Caesar Augustus 5. Byzantine Church Built Over the Temple to Augustus Caesar 6. 5th Century Synagogue 7. Caesarea Harbor 8. Caesarea Historic Port 9. Governor's Palace 10. Mosaic Hall 11. Bathhouse 12. Hippodrome/Amphitheatre Many Christians would be martyred here for their refusal to deny Christ. Wild animals would be let out of the gates into the arena and tear the Christians to shreds. It was a brutal form of entertainment at this time in history. The side of the hippodrome facing the sea was removed during the Byzantine Christian era. 13. Roman Toilet 14. Herod's Private Palace Freshwater Pool 15. Paul Appeals to Caesar 16 . Pontius Pilate Stone 17. Prison of the Apostle Paul 17 . Promontory Palace 18 . Caesarea Columns 19 . Roman Theater Caesarea in the Bible 1. After the Apostle Paul received Christ, he was sent to Tarsus from this seaport. Acts 9:30: And when the brothers learned this, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus. 2. Cornelius, the first Gentile to receive the Holy Spirit, lived here. Acts 10:1–8: At Caesarea , there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of what was known as the Italian Cohort, 2 a devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God. 3 About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God come in and say to him, “Cornelius.” 4 And he stared at him in terror and said, “What is it, Lord?” And he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God. 5 And now send men to Joppa and bring one Simon who is called Peter. 6 He is lodging with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea.” 7 When the angel who spoke to him had departed, he called two of his servants and a devout soldier from among those who attended him, 8 and having related everything to them, he sent them to Joppa. 3. Caesarea was the place where the Holy Spirit was given to the Gentiles. Acts 10:44–48: While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. 45 And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. 46 For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter declared, 47 “Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to remain for some days. 4. King Herod Agrippa the 1st, the grandson of Herod the Great, met his death in Caesarea. Acts 12:21–24: On an appointed day Herod put on his royal robes, took his seat upon the throne, and delivered an oration to them. 22 And the people were shouting, "The voice of a god, and not of a man!" 23 Immediately an angel of the Lord struck him down, because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and breathed his last. 24 But the word of God increased and multiplied. 5. Philip the Evangelist lived in Caesarea. Acts 21:8: On the next day we departed and came to Caesarea, and we entered the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, and stayed with him. 6. The Apostle Paul sailed to and from Caesarea on his missionary travels. Acts 21:7–8: When we had finished the voyage from Tyre, we arrived at Ptolemais, and we greeted the brothers and stayed with them for one day. 8 On the next day, we departed and came to Caesarea , and we entered the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, and stayed with him. 7. The Apostle Paul stood trial here for his faith. Acts 23:33–35: When they had come to Caesarea and delivered the letter to the governor, they presented Paul also before him. 34 On reading the letter, he asked what province he was from. And when he learned that he was from Cilicia, 35 he said, "I will give you a hearing when your accusers arrive." And he commanded him to be guarded in Herod's Praetorium. 8. The Apostle Paul was imprisoned here for 2 years because of his faith. Acts 24:27: When two years had elapsed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And desiring to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul in prison. It’s possible that Paul wrote some of the Prison Epistles in Caesarea during the 2 years he spent here in prison. 9. After spending 2 years of imprisonment in Caesarea and appealing to Cesar, the Apostle Paul sailed from Caesarea to Rome, where he stood trial for his faith. Acts 25:8, 11: Paul argued in his defense, "Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Caesar have I committed any offense. Paul then declares, in verse 11 “I appeal to Caesar.” 10. It was one of the key places from which the gospel would be taken to the whole world. Acts 1:8: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and Samaria, and as far as the remotest part of the earth. Faith Lesson from Caesarea 1. The Holy Spirit was given to the Gentiles here. This demonstrates that God loves all people, regardless of their race or background, and desires for them to be saved. What about us? Do we love all nationalities, knowing God created and loves us all? 2. Paul spent two years in prison here because of his faithfulness to Christ. It’s possible that he wrote some of the Prison Letters while he was here. What about us? Are we willing to suffer like Paul for the advancement of the gospel? 3. God opposes the proud and caused King Herod Agrippa the 1st, the grandson of Herod the Great, to meet his death here because of his arrogance. What about us? Do we give God the glory for what He does through us and avoid pride in our lives? 4. It's very likely that early Christians were martyred in the hippodrome here for their faith. What price are we willing to pay for our faith in Christ?

The Western Wall, also known as the Kotel, is the most sacred place in Judaism where prayer is permitted. Standing at the heart of Jerusalem’s Old City, it is the last remaining wall of the Second Temple, destroyed in 70 CE, and has been a place of prayer and pilgrimage for centuries. Western Wall & Plaza (Kotel) Photo Gallery Places of Interest Western Wall & Plaza (Kotel) Introduction The Western Wall Plaza, also known as the Kotel, is the most sacred place in Judaism where large gatherings of Jews can pray and worship. 1. The Western Wall was part of the Temple Mount expansion Herod the Great did around 19 BC. 2. It consists of 45 courses of stone, with 17 still underground and 28 above ground. We'll discuss them later. 3. The Wall is the closest accessible point to the ancient Holy of Holies, making it the holiest place where Jews can pray. 4. Above the Herodian base, later additions from the Umayyad, Mamluk, and Ottoman periods reflect centuries of rebuilding and preservation. 5. For centuries, pilgrims from across the world have come to pray here, leaving written notes in its ancient stones. 6. In this tour, we'll see the following: Crushed stones from the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD by the Romans. Burnt marks on the walls from the destruction in 70 AD. Remains of an arch leading up to the Temple Mount. The access ramp leading up to the Temple Mount for the general public. The layout of the Western Wall Plaza. The history and background of this area. Many other highlights of the area. Location 1. The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall (because the Jews weep here during their prayers), is located on the western side of the Temple Mount. 2. The Western Wall Tunnel is accessed on the northern side of the Western Wall Plaza and runs north to the end of the Temple Mount Platform. Western Wall & Temple Mount History 1. In order to build the temple on the mountain top of Mount Moriah, supporting walls had to be erected that could be filled in, so there was a large flat place (platform) upon which to build. King Solomon first did this when he constructed the first temple around 950 BC. When the temple was rebuilt under Zerubbabel (537-515 BC), this same platform was used. Later, in 19 BC, King Herod began rebuilding a new massive temple. To accomplish this, he had to enlarge the Temple Mount Platform significantly. When he was done, it measured 985 x 1,575 feet (300 x 480 m.), or the equivalent of 35 football fields in size (35 acres, 14 hectares). 2. King Herod put 10,000 men to work and trained 1,000 priests as masons so they could work on the most sacred parts of the temple. The building was begun in 19 B.C. and completed in 10 years, but the work of decoration was not finished until 64 A.D. 3. The temple King Herod built on this massive Temple Mount Platform was enormous in size. Nothing in the known world at that time compared to it in size and beauty. For comparison’s sake, the temple Herod built was three times the size of the Dome of the Rock (which measures 65 feet wide by 115 feet high, or 20 meters by 35 meters), which can still be seen today. 4. In 70 AD, six years after the temple was fully completed, the Romans burned down and destroyed the temple at Jerusalem, and it has never been rebuilt since. 5. When the Romans destroyed the temple in 70 AD, part of the western side of the Temple Mount Platform survived. For hundreds of years before 1967, people prayed in the small area of the wall that was visible at the time. However, in 1967, following the Six-Day War, Israelis excavated below the ground level of the wall and found two more stone rows. They then cleared the area around the wall to create the Western Wall Plaza that visitors see today. 6. The Western Wall is part of the retaining wall, or support wall, that Herod the Great built in 19 BC when he enlarged the Temple Mount complex to accommodate a larger temple and Temple Mount area. It was a massive undertaking that required exceptional and sophisticated engineering. 7. Unlike what many think, the Western Wall was not part of the wall of the temple that King Herod Built. 8. The Western Wall consists of a total of 45 courses of stone, with 17 still underground and 28 above ground. Following is the history of all the stone courses. Herodian Period (19 BC): Of the visible part of the wall, only the bottom seven stone courses, consisting of large stones with indented borders, are from Herod the Great's enlargement. There are 17 stone courses still buried underground. Some of these can be seen by entering the Western Wall Tunnels. Umayyad Period (650-700 AD): The following four stone courses date back to the Muslim Umayyad Period. Ottoman Period (1516-1917 AD): The subsequent 17 stone courses date back to this period. 9. Located beside the Western Wall, on the left side, or northern side of the Western Wall, is a synagogue. Here Jews gather to study, read, and pray. This is one of the Jews’ most holy synagogues due to its proximity to the original Temple, where the Holy of Holies once resided. Places of Interest 1. The entire length of the Western Wall is 1,575 ft. long (480 m.), almost a third of a mile (.53 km.). 2. Massive Stones: At the southern end of the Western Wall are stones that the Romans cast down when they destroyed the city in 70 AD. 3. Broken Pavement: The broken pavement of the street that the massive stones crushed when they fell is sobering to see. 4. Burn Marks: On the wall remain burnt stones from the fire of the Roman conquest of the city in 70 AD. 5. Shop Ruins: There are remains of shops that were part of a large shopping plaza at the southern part of the Western Wall. This is the same wall that Jesus and His disciples would have seen. 6. Southern Stairs: The Southern Stairs entrance to the temple is where Jesus would have taught His disciples and entered the Temple Mount area. 7. Trumpeter's Stone: At the southernmost end of the Western Wall is a significant stone that stood upon the uttermost southwestern corner of the Temple Mount. It has words written in Hebrew that mean “The Trumpeter’s House.” A priest would stand at this corner announcing the beginning of the Sabbath and other festival days the Jews celebrated with a loud trumpet blast. 8. Isaiah Stone: Right under Robinson's Arch, we can see the so-called "Isaiah Stone." It has a carved inscription in Hebrew with a partial quote or paraphrase of Isaiah 66:14. The carving says: "And them will see, and rejoice your heart, and your bones like grass shall flourish." 9. In 1967, after the Six-Day War, the Israelis removed old homes and cleared the area around the wall to create the Western Wall Plaza that visitors see today. 10. In the Western Wall Plaza area, a walkway bridge can be seen that tourists use to access the Temple Mount. 11. The Western Wall Plaza is divided into two sections: a men’s and a women’s section. 12. The area close to the wall is considered a synagogue, so men must wear a head covering when entering the men’s section. 13. Most Jews do not enter the Temple Mount for fear of unknowingly walking in the place where the Holy of Holies might have been. Plus, Muslims do not want them entering their places of worship as well. 14. The Western Wall Plaza is the closest large public area to the temple and Holy of Holies for the Jews. Therefore, it is their most holy site. 15. On the northern side of the Western Wall is Wilson’s Arch, which is the modern name for a stone arch whose top is still visible today. It once supported a bridge that provided access to a gate level with the surface of the Temple Mount during Jesus' time. Under this arch is a synagogue where Jews pray and read the Scriptures. 16. The Western Wall Plaza is only 10% of the entire Western Wall of the Temple Mount Platform. The majority of the wall is accessible by entering what is known as “The Western Wall Tunnels.” We will see that part shortly. 17. Western Wall Stone Layers: Herodian Period (19 BC): Of the visible part of the wall, only the bottom seven stone courses, consisting of large stones with indented borders, are from Herod the Great's enlargement. There are 17 stone courses still buried underground. Some of these can be seen by entering the Western Wall Tunnels. Umayyad Period (650-700 AD): The following four stone courses date back to the Muslim Umayyad Period. Ottoman Period (1516-1917 AD): The subsequent 17 stone courses date back to this period. Faith Lesson from the Western Wall 1. It's sad that the closest large meeting area the Jews can get to the place where the original temple used to be located is the Western Wall, which, in reality, is just part of the supporting wall of the Temple Mount. 2. It’s sad that because of the Jews’ repeated refusal to heed God’s warnings to obey and follow Him, He sent judgments upon Israel and Jerusalem. 3. It's sad that because the Jews rejected Jesus as their Messiah, Jesus prophesied Jerusalem would be destroyed. This was fulfilled in 70 AD. The reality of this destruction is the overarching fact that can be seen all along the Western Wall. 4. Because of the Jews' continual disobedience to God, He prophesied that the Jews would be scattered to the four corners of the earth. This was fulfilled in 70 AD. 5. God also prophesied that He would bring the Jews back to their homeland in the last days. This was fulfilled in 1948. 6. According to many passages in the Bible, God still has a plan for the Jews. He said He would bring them back to their homeland after they had been scattered for thousands of years. He also says that during the Great Tribulation Period, many Jews, if not most of them, will recognize that Jesus is indeed their Messiah and turn to Him in repentance. 7. Amazingly, we see the first prophecy fulfilled in that the Jews returned to their homeland and have their own country back. Many civilizations have occupied the Holy Land, but God has fulfilled prophecy in bringing the Jews back to their homeland today. 8. The stones here cry out that God’s Word is true and is verifiable through the fulfillment of these prophecies. 9. At the Southern Stair entrance area of the Temple Mount is a sad but very true saying, “The Jerusalem Stone, so resilient and supple, bows to the transient follies of humankind, bearing a testimony like a hundred witnesses, and yet, remains silent.” 10. We find in all that has happened to the Jews a powerful and sobering message for us today. Obedience brings God’s blessings, but disobedience brings His discipline. 1 Corinthians 10:11–12: Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come. 12 Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.

The Greek Orthodox “Prison of Christ” is a small underground grotto/chamber inside the Greek Orthodox Holy Monastery of the Praetorium along the Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem’s Old City, near the area associated with the early “trial/condemnation” stations. A long-standing devotion connects it to Jesus being held briefly in custody in connection with the “praetorium” scenes of the Passion (especially John 18:28). It is also the believed place where some of the apostles were jailed. Greek Orthodox Prison of Christ/Apostles Photo Gallery Places of Interest Greek Orthodox Prison of Christ/Apostles Introduction 1. The Greek Orthodox “Prison of Christ” is a small underground grotto/chamber inside the Greek Orthodox Holy Monastery of the Praetorium. 2. A long-standing devotion connects it to Jesus being held briefly in custody in connection with the “praetorium” scenes of the trial of Jesus before Pilate. 3. According to the Greek Orthodox Church, this complex sits on the site of the Roman Praetorium where Pontius Pilate judged Jesus, and its underground chambers served as the temporary holding cells for prisoners awaiting execution. Among these prisoners would be some of the Apostles. Location 1. Located along the Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem’s Old City just west of the Sisters of Zion and Ecce Homo Arch. 2. It's also west of the area associated with the early “trial/condemnation” stations marked out as stations one and two of the traditional Via Dolorosa path. Historical Background 1. The Underground Prison While the monastery building above ground dates primarily to the 18th century, the subterranean levels consist of ancient, rock-hewn caves. These chambers feature authentic Roman-era stonework and were likely used as cisterns or local detention facilities in antiquity. The Cell of Christ: The smallest cave in the complex is venerated as the specific cell where Jesus was held while the Roman soldiers prepared the cross. The main focal point is a stone bench and a distinctive flagstone carved with two holes, traditionally believed to be the stocks where Jesus' feet were shackled. The Cell of Barabbas: Another cave within the underground complex is traditionally identified as the holding cell for Barabbas, the insurrectionist released by Pilate in place of Jesus in honor of the Passover custom. General Jail Area: Located in the lower area of the caves is a larger area with hooks in the walls. This could be the area where some of the Apostles were held by the Jewish religious leaders for preaching about Christ. 2. Historical and Archaeological Context The site is steeped in religious devotion, but its historical authenticity as the actual site of Jesus' imprisonment and trial is a subject of ongoing debate among historians and archaeologists. The Antonia Fortress Tradition: The monastery is situated near the remains of the Antonia Fortress, a massive military garrison built by Herod the Great to monitor the adjacent Temple Mount. Beginning heavily in the Crusader period (12th century), Western and Eastern traditions began to associate this fortress with the Praetorium. It was a logical assumption that the Roman governor would station himself near the Temple Mount during volatile Jewish festivals to quickly suppress any riots. The Herod's Palace Consensus: Today, the majority of modern archaeologists and historians believe the actual Roman Praetorium was located on the opposite side of the Old City at Herod's Palace (near the modern Jaffa Gate and the Tower of David). Roman governors generally preferred the luxury of Herod's Palace to the austere military barracks of the Antonia Fortress. Extensive excavations in the 1970s and early 2000s uncovered massive Roman-era pavements and retaining walls there, which better fit historical descriptions of the trial's location. 3. A Landscape of Traditions Because the Gospels do not provide exact geographical coordinates, and because Jerusalem was entirely destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE, the exact locations of many biblical events were obscured. As a result, the Greek Orthodox Praetorium is actually one of five distinct locations in Jerusalem that lay claim to a "Prison of Christ." The others include: A dedicated chapel inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, also maintained by the Greek Orthodox Church. A dry cistern beneath the Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu, the Catholic tradition for the house of the High Priest Caiaphas. A medieval chapel within the Armenian Monastery on Mount Zion, the Armenian tradition for the estate of Caiaphas. The Church of the Archangels in the Armenian Quarter, traditionally held as the house of Annas, where Jesus faced his preliminary interrogation. 4. How the Tradition Developed The familiar route of the Via Dolorosa developed in the medieval period and located the “praetorium” area in the city’s northeast (near where pilgrims were shown features tied to Lithostrotos/Gabbatha). Greek Orthodox custodianship and a specific “prison” grotto: In this same northeastern complex, the Greek Orthodox preserve a grotto and point it out specifically as the Prison of Christ, alongside pieces of ancient fortification/paving remains in the area. Modern chapel/labeling: Some guides report that, from the early 20th century (often dated to 1911), the site was more formally promoted/marked as “the real Prison of Christ,” with a chapel above and signage that makes it easy for pilgrims to find. 5. What Archaeology Reveals This part of the Old City is archaeologically like a “layer-cake.” This means there are many layers sitting one on top of another in this area. The Via Dolorosa area preserves ancient features (including stretches of paving and nearby subterranean installations), but key surfaces long shown as Lithostrotos are often dated to Hadrian’s Aelia Capitolina (2nd century CE) rather than Jesus’ time. Because of that, most historians treat the “Prison of Christ” identification as devotional tradition, not something that can be proven from archaeology alone. 6. The Big “Praetorium” Question A major reason this site is discussed cautiously is that many scholars today associate Pilate’s praetorium in Jerusalem with Herod the Great’s palace on the western hill, not the Antonia Fortress complex that anchors the traditional Via Dolorosa. So, the Greek Orthodox monastery’s “prison” is best understood as part of the pilgrimage memory-map of Jerusalem—deeply meaningful for prayer, but not a settled archaeological identification. 7. Conclusion We believe the best location for the Praetorium (trial location of Jesus) is at Herod the Great’s palace on the western hill beside the Jaffa Gate. This would have been used by Pilate as well. The evidence there is overwhelming. Both the biblical and archaeology evidence all align well. While we don't believe Jesus was imprisoned here, we do believe the Apostles were. We believe the best option for the Prison of Christ is in the dungeon at the House of Caiaphas (Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu). This prison is the most likely place the Apostles were held because of its proximity to the Temple where they were arrested by the Jewish leaders. Sites of Interest Inside the Prison 1. Street Level Souvenir Purchase Counter Reflection Room Prison of Christ Cell/Feet Stocks 2. Second Level Prison Area Anchor holes in the ceiling, around which prisoners’ chains were fastened. Behind an iron railing, there is a primitive altar, which is one of the oldest in the Holy Land. It reveals that this prison ultimately became a church. On the right side of this area is an ancient plaster-lined baptistry. It reveals that the early church believed this was a holy place. General Prison Area Original Hole to Third Level 3. Third Level Prison Area General Prison Area Hooks in the Walls for Binding Prisoners Prison Cell of Barabbas Walled off Door Places of Interest Outside the Prison 1. Lions’ Gate 2. Temple Mount 3. Antonia Fortress 4. Convent of the Sisters of Sion - Lithostrotos 5. Church of the Holy Sepulchre 6. Ecce Homo Arch 7. Via Dolorosa 8. Herod/Pilate Praetorium Prison of the Apostles in the Bible 1. Peter and John Are Arrested on the Temple Mount and Put in Prison Acts 4:1-10: The priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while they were speaking to the people. 2 They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people, proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. 3 They seized Peter and John and, because it was evening, they put them in jail until the next day . 4 But many who heard the message believed; so the number of men who believed grew to about five thousand. 2. Peter and John Released from Prison 5 The next day the rulers, the elders and the teachers of the law met in Jerusalem. 6 Annas the high priest was there, and so were Caiaphas, John, Alexander and others of the high priest’s family. 7 They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: “By what power or what name did you do this?” 8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “Rulers and elders of the people! 9 If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a man who was lame and are being asked how he was healed, 10 then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. 3. The Apostles Do Many Signs and Wonders on the Temple Mount Acts 5:12-16: 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 . 13 None of the rest dared join them, but the people held them in high esteem. 14 And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women, 15 so that they even carried out the sick into the streets and laid them on cots and mats, that as Peter came by at least his shadow might fall on some of them. 16 The people also gathered from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those afflicted with unclean spirits, and they were all healed. 4. The Apostles are Arrested and Thrown in a Public Prison Acts 5:17-21: But the high priest rose up, and all who were with him (that is, the party of the Sadducees), and filled with jealousy 18 they arrested the apostles and put them in the public prison . 19 But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said, 20 “Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life.” 21 And when they heard this, they entered the temple at daybreak and began to teach. 5. The Jewish Leaders are Astounded at the Supernatural Release of the Apostles from Prison Acts 5:21-26: When the high priest and his associates arrived, they called together the Sanhedrin—the full assembly of the elders of Israel—and sent to the jail for the apostles . 22 But on arriving at the jail , the officers did not find them there. So they went back and reported, 23 “We found the jail securely locked , with the guards standing at the doors; but when we opened them, we found no one inside.” 24 On hearing this report, the captain of the temple guard and the chief priests were at a loss , wondering what this might lead to. 25 Then someone came and said, “Look! The men you put in jail are standing in the temple courts teaching the people .” 26 At that, the captain went with his officers and brought the apostles. They did not use force, because they feared that the people would stone them. Faith Lesson from the Prison of the Apostles 1. The Apostles were bold in their faith and preached and ministered to many. What about us? Are we bold in our faith and do we share it unashamedly to others? 2. The Apostles suffered and were persecuted for their faith. What about us? Are we willing to suffer and be persecuted for our faith? 3. Standing in a “prison” space like this makes Hebrews 13:3 come alive and real: “Remember those in prison …” What about us? Do we have compassion for the countless people right now in other countries who are suffering for their faith? 4. God can turn confinement into mission. Even when the doors don’t open immediately, God’s purposes aren’t stopped. The early Church learned that chains can become a platform for witness. What about us? Do we use what appears to be setbacks to grow and witness for Christ?

St. George’s Monastery is a Greek Orthodox cliff-hanging complex carved into a sheer rock wall in the Judaean Desert that overlooks an unexpectedly lush garden with olive and cypress trees. It’s one of the most striking sights in the Holy Land. It's nearby to Jericho and was located on the road leading from Jericho to Jerusalem. It was on this road that the story of the Good Samaritan takes place as told by Jesus. Inn of the Good Samaritan commemorates this event. St. George's Monastery Photo Gallery Places of Interest St. George’s Monastery Location 1. St. George’s Monastery is located about 2.5 miles (4 km.) west of Jericho in a deep and breathtaking gorge called “Wadi Qelt.” 2. It’s located on the ancient road connecting the Jordan Valley to Jerusalem and beyond. Jesus would have used this well-traveled road regularly. 3. The story of the Good Samaritan took place on this road. For more on this story and event, please see the Inn of the Good Samaritan. Historical Background 1. St. George’s Monastery is a Greek Orthodox cliff-hanging complex carved into a sheer rock wall in the Judaean Desert and is one of the most breathtaking sights in the Holy Land. 2. Starting in the 4th century, monks began to live in the many caves of Wadi Qelt. 3. The monastery of St. George was founded in the 5th century by John of Thebes, an Egyptian. He gathered a small band of five Syrian hermits who had settled around the cave where they believed the prophet Elijah was fed by ravens (1 Kings 17:1–7). 4. Tradition also holds that Elijah visited the cave by the monastery while traveling to the Sinai Peninsula as he fled the threats of Jezebel after he had killed the false prophets of Baal and Asherah (1 Kings 19:1–3). 5. However, it was named after its most famous monk, St George of Koziba, who came as a teenager from Cyprus in the 6th century to follow the ascetic life in the Holy Land after his parents died. 6. The monastery was destroyed in 614 AD by the Persians and was more or less abandoned after the Persians swept through the valley and massacred the fourteen monks who dwelt there. The bones and skulls of the martyred monks can still be seen today in the monastery chapel. 7. The Crusaders made some attempts at restoration of the monastery in 1179. However, it was abandoned after Muslims regained control of the Holy Land and drove out the Crusaders. 8. In 1878, a Greek monk, Kalinikos, settled here and restored the monastery, finishing it in 1901. History of Christian Monasticism 1. Today, in Israel, there are 33 functioning monasteries. During the 4th century, there were hundreds of monasteries built as almost every holy site had a monastery on it. 2. Because Christianity was prohibited in the Roman Empire before Constantine embraced Christianity, no monasteries or churches were permitted until 313 AD. After this point, monasteries sprung up everywhere throughout the empire. 3. The idea of a monastic lifestyle was taken from both the Old and New Testaments. The Nazarite Vow The prophets (Elijah being fed by ravens in the desert) John the Baptist living in the desert Christ fasting for 40 days in the desert 4. There were also the Essenes who lived in the desert by the Dead Sea at Qumran during the time of John the Baptist and Jesus. 5. Monasticism took on different forms and meanings throughout its history. Some lived like hermits all alone. Later, many lived in monasteries in communal groups. They withdrew from society to live a separated life fully devoted to seeking the Lord and becoming godly. Over the years, monasticism changed so that many monasteries prepared men and women for a life of service to God. They would live in the monastery for a few years then go out to serve the Lord. Monasteries were not always Catholic. There were many monasteries before Catholicism became what it is today, and there were different kinds of monasteries from different religious orientations, i.e., Greek Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, Armenian, etc. 6. In general, monasticism is a religious way of life wherein a person denounces worldly pursuits and fully devotes themselves to seeking the Lord through religious vows and disciplines. 7. The word monk, or monastery, originates from Greek (monos) and means to “dwell alone.” 8. In different periods of monasticism, some chose lives of celibacy as well. Places of Interest 1. St. George’s Monastery It is quite a hike down into the gorge to see the monastery, so only those in good physical shape should attempt it. It can also be extremely hot through the Spring to Fall seasons as well. 2. Lookout – Just to the west of the parking area is a trail that leads to a beautiful lookout area over the monastery for those just wanting to see the site without hiking down to it. 3. Monastery Upper Level – Elijah’s Cave 4. Monastery Middle Level – Main Church 5. Monastery Lower Level – Storehouses and vault where the remains of the early monks are kept. 6. Stairs from the inner court of the monastery lead to the cave-church of St. Elijah. From this cave, a narrow tunnel provides an escape route to the top of the mountain. 7. Wadi Qelt – Fertile ravine where small-scale farming and irrigation takes place. 8. Caves where monks lived. 9. Small Chapel St. George’s Monastery In the Bible 1. It seems very unlikely that St. George’s Monastery is the location where God supernaturally fed Elijah by ravens. The Bible says the place was east of the Jordan River, and St. George’s Monastery is west of the Jordan River. 1 Kings 17:1–7: Now Elijah the Tishbite, of Tishbe in Gilead, said to Ahab, “As the Lord, the God of Israel, lives, before whom I stand, there shall be neither dew nor rain these years, except by my word.” 2 And the word of the Lord came to him: 3 “Depart from here and turn eastward and hide yourself by the brook Cherith, which is east of the Jordan . 4 You shall drink from the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to feed you there.” 5 So he went and did according to the word of the Lord. He went and lived by the brook Cherith that is east of the Jordan . 6 And the ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning, and bread and meat in the evening, and he drank from the brook. 7 And after a while the brook dried up, because there was no rain in the land. 2. It is possible Elijah stayed in the cave at St. George’s Monastery when he fled after being threatened by Jezebel, but it’s not certain. 1 Kings 19:3: Then he was afraid, and he arose and ran for his life and came to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there. Faith Lesson from St. George’s Monastery 1. We can certainly admire those who took God so seriously that they often sold their possessions and chose a life of solitude and strict discipline to seek the Lord. Do we love the Lord to such a degree we are willing to give up whatever God might ask us so we can be more devoted followers of Him? 2. Do we set time aside to remove the distractions of life and just seek God? 3. While it’s good to set time apart for solitude and seeking the Lord, we are also called to be in the world but not of it. Are we doing a good job of being in the world but not a part of its values and philosophies? 4. Are we disciplined in our Christian lives? 5. While monasticism has many admirable qualities, it does have some unbiblical concepts. For some, it was a withdrawal and escape from society. Like Christ, we are called to influence society and be lights to the world. Are we influencing those around us with the light of God’s Word and His love? And are we fulfilling the Great Commission in one way or another? 6. Are we part of a Bible-believing church community where we can grow and serve others?

Resources to learn all about the History of Israel. Videos, books, talks, maps, and more. Learn about its walls, gates, people, language, and more. History of Israel

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Christ's path to the Cross, His suffering, condemnation by the Jews, trial by Pilate, and crucifixion. Gethsemane, House of Caiaphus, Pilate's Judgment Place, Golgotha, Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Gethsemane to Golgotha: Path to the Cross Photo Gallery Places of Interest Gethsemane to Golgotha: Christ's Path to the Cross Location 1. Gethsemane is located at the base of the Mount of Olives and just east of the Temple Mount. 2. Golgotha has two general options for its location. The traditional site is at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Another option is at the Garden Tomb. There is a rock faced cliff that looks like the face of a skull. Over the years it has deteriorated but still resembles a face. 3. Because we worship a person and not a place, the location isn’t as important as what happened. Both places are close to each other, so we know they’re both in the vicinity. Historical Background 1. The death, burial, and resurrection of Christ were real events that happened in history. 2. They were prophesied in the Old Testament and fulfilled in the New Testament. 3. There were hundreds, if not thousands, of eyewitnesses to Christ’s resurrection (1 Cor. 15:6). 4. Within decades of Christ’s resurrection, Roman and Jewish historians wrote about Jesus and the events surrounding Him. 5. There is more evidence regarding Christ’s existence than Julius Caesar. 6. No other person has changed history as Christ did. 7. Christ’s disciples were willing to die for their faith in Him. 8. Throughout history, and today, billions of people confess Christ as their Savior, and that He lives within them and has changed their lives. Places of Interest 1. Gethsemane 2. House of Caiaphas 3. Antonia Fortress 4. Herod’s Palace – Pilate's Judgment Hall 5. Church of the Holy Sepulchre 6. Garden Tomb 7. Via Dolorosa Gethsemane to Golgotha in the Bible 1. Jesus began the journey praying in the Garden of Gethsemane. Matthew 26:36–38: Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, "Sit here, while I go over there and pray." 37 And taking with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, he began to be sorrowful and troubled. 38 Then he said to them, "My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me." 2. Jesus was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane very late at night. Matthew 26:47: While he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a great crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the elders of the people. 3. Jesus was brought before Annas, the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the High Priest. John 18:12–13: So the band of soldiers and their captain and the officers of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound him. 13 First they led him to Annas, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. 4. Christ was brought before Caiaphas, the High Priest. Matthew 26:57: Then those who had seized Jesus led him to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders had gathered. 5. While at the house of Caiaphas, Peter denied Christ 3 times. Luke 22:61–62: And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times." 62 And he went out and wept bitterly. 6. The religious leaders condemned and beat Jesus at the house of Caiaphas. Matthew 26:65–68: Then the high priest tore his robes and said, "He has uttered blasphemy. What further witnesses do we need? You have now heard his blasphemy. 66 What is your judgment?" They answered, "He deserves death." 67 Then they spit in his face and struck him. And some slapped him, 68 saying, "Prophesy to us, you Christ! Who is it that struck you?" 7. Christ most likely spent the rest of the night in a dungeon at the house of Caiaphas, the High Priest. 8. Early the next morning Christ was brought before Pilate to be judged. John 18:28: Then they led Jesus from the house of Caiaphas to the governor's headquarters. It was early morning. They themselves did not enter the governor's headquarters, so that they would not be defiled, but could eat the Passover. 9. Judas, the disciple who betrayed Christ, hanged himself. Matthew 27:3–5: Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, 4 saying, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood." They said, "What is that to us? See to it yourself." 5 And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself. 10. Jesus appeared before King Herod. Luke 23:5–7: But they were urgent, saying, "He stirs up the people, teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee even to this place." 6 When Pilate heard this, he asked whether the man was a Galilean. 7 And when he learned that he belonged to Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him over to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time. Luke 23:11: And Herod with his soldiers treated him with contempt and mocked him. Then, arraying him in splendid clothing, he sent him back to Pilate. 11. Jesus appeared again before Pilate, Pilates’s wife warned him about condemning Jesus, Barabbas released. Matthew 27:19–23: While he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent him a message, saying, “Have nothing to do with that righteous Man; for last night I suffered greatly in a dream because of Him.” 20 But the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas and to put Jesus to death. 21 But the governor said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release for you?” And they said, “Barabbas.” 22 Pilate said to them, “Then what shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?” They all said, “Crucify Him!” 23 And he said, “Why, what evil has He done?” But they kept shouting all the more, saying, “Crucify Him!” 12. Pilate had Jesus beaten in an attempt to appease the Jews. John 19:1–6: Then Pilate took Jesus and flogged him. 2 And the soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head and arrayed him in a purple robe. 3 They came up to him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” and struck him with their hands. 4 Pilate went out again and said to them, “See, I am bringing him out to you that you may know that I find no guilt in him.” 5 So Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, “Behold the man!” 6 When the chief priests and the officers saw him, they cried out, “Crucify him, crucify him!” Pilate said to them, “Take him yourselves and crucify him, for I find no guilt in him.” 13. Pilate condemned Jesus to death by crucifixion. Matthew 27:24–26: So when Pilate saw that he was gaining nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, "I am innocent of this man's blood; see to it yourselves." 25 And all the people answered, "His blood be on us and on our children!" 26 Then he released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, delivered him to be crucified. 14. Jesus was led out to be crucified at Golgotha. John 19:16–17: So he delivered him over to them to be crucified. So they took Jesus, 17 and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called The Place of a Skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha. 15. Because Christ’s body was so physically damaged, Simon of Cyrene was forced to carry Christ’s cross the rest of the way. Matthew 27:32–33: As they went out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name. They compelled this man to carry his cross. 33 And when they came to a place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull).” 16. Jesus was crucified at 9:00 Friday morning on Passover day. Mark 15:25: And it was the third hour (9:00 am) when they crucified him. 17. Christ on the Cross. Matthew 27:34–37: They offered him wine to drink, mixed with gall, but when he tasted it, he would not drink it. 35 And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots. 36 Then they sat down and kept watch over him there. 37 And over his head they put the charge against him, which read, “This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.” 18. Jesus was mocked by those who passed by, the chief priest, scribes, and elders. Matthew 27:38–43: Then two robbers were crucified with him, one on the right and one on the left. 39 And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads 40 and saying, "You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross." 41 So also the chief priests, with the scribes and elders, mocked him, saying, 42 "He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. 43 He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him. For he said, 'I am the Son of God.'" 19. One of the robbers who was crucified with Christ embraced Him as his Savior. Luke 23:39–43: One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” 40 But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” 42 And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” 43 And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” 20. Jesus dies on the Cross. Luke 23:46–49: Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” And having said this he breathed his last. 47 Now when the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God, saying, “Certainly this man was innocent!” 48 And all the crowds that had assembled for this spectacle, when they saw what had taken place, returned home beating their breasts. 49 And all his acquaintances and the women who had followed him from Galilee stood at a distance watching these things. 21. From noon until 3:00 pm, darkness fell on the earth. Matthew 27:45–50: Now from the sixth hour [12:00 pm] there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour [3:00 pm]. 46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" that is, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" 47 And some of the bystanders, hearing it, said, "This man is calling Elijah." 48 And one of them at once ran and took a sponge, filled it with sour wine, and put it on a reed and gave it to him to drink. 49 But the others said, "Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to save him." 50 And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit. 22. The temple curtain was torn in two, and many people rose from the dead and appeared to others. Matthew 27:51–53: And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And the earth shook, and the rocks were split. 52 The tombs also were opened. And many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised, 53 and coming out of the tombs after his resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many. 23. Jesus’ body is taken down from the cross and placed in a tomb. John 19:38–42: After these things, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took away his body. 39 Nicodemus also, who earlier had come to Jesus by night, came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds in weight. 40 So they took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews. 41 Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. 42 So because of the Jewish day of Preparation, since the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there. 24. The tomb of Jesus was secured by the Romans. Matthew 27:65–66: Pilate said to them, "You have a guard of soldiers. Go, make it as secure as you can." 66 So they went and made the tomb secure by sealing the stone and setting a guard. 25. Three days later Christ rose from the dead and proved victorious over sin and death. 1 Corinthians 15:3–8: For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me [Apostle Paul]. Faith Lesson from Gethsemane to Golgotha 1. Christ was beaten on at least 3 occasions, and His body was so damaged that He couldn't even carry His cross. 2. Christ suffered both physically and spiritually for us. 3. What He suffered spiritually was far more than His physical suffering. 4. He suffered the penalty of eternity in hell for each person who trusts in Him as their Savior. Isaiah 53:5: But he was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his stripes we are healed. 5. Jesus died on the Cross at the exact time the sacrificial lamb of the Passover was to be sacrificed. This was no accident but was sovereignly arranged by God to show that Christ was the Passover Lamb once and for all. 6. Words fail to express what Christ went through for us so He could restore us to Himself and have an eternal relationship with us. 7. Do we comprehend and appreciate this reality?. 8. Because of His great sacrifice, we can have our sins forgiven and receive the gift of eternal life. Have you received Christ as your Lord and Savior?

See a tour of all the key sites at Tel Dan and learn the devastating reality of why the northern 10 tribes of Israel fell and were led into captivity by the Assyrians in 722 BC. Jeroboam set up an altar to worship a golden calf, and the remaining Kings of Israel followed in his steps. The city of Dan was located in the northernmost part of Israel, north of the Sea of Galilee. The tribe of Dan failed to take the original territory allotted to them, so they captured and moved to this area. The City of Dan Photo Gallery Places of Interest Dan Location 1. The city of Dan was located in the northernmost part of Israel, about 24 miles (38 km.) north of the Sea of Galilee. 2. It is a well-watered lush area superb for agriculture. Historical Background 1. The tribe of Dan failed to take the original territory allotted to them, so they captured and moved to this area (Judges 18). 2. When referring to all Israel, the phrase “From Dan to Beersheba” was commonly used. 1 Kings 4:25: Judah and Israel lived safely, every man under his vine and under his fig tree, from Dan even to Beersheba, all the days of Solomon. 3. Just after Solomon’s reign, the kingdom of Israel was divided because Solomon turned from the Lord and introduced the worship of false gods into the nation. 1 Kings 11:1–2: Now King Solomon loved many foreign women along with the daughter of Pharaoh: Moabite, Ammonite, Edomite, Sidonian, and Hittite women, 2 from the nations concerning which the Lord had said to the sons of Israel, “You shall not associate with them, nor shall they associate with you, for they will surely turn your heart away after their gods .” Solomon held fast to these in love. 1 Kings 11:6–11: Solomon did what was evil in the sight of the Lord, and did not follow the Lord fully, as David his father had done. 7 Then Solomon built a high place for Chemosh the detestable idol of Moab, on the mountain which is east of Jerusalem, and for Molech the detestable idol of the sons of Ammon. 8 Thus also he did for all his foreign wives, who burned incense and sacrificed to their gods. 9 Now the Lord was angry with Solomon because his heart was turned away from the Lord , the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice , 10 and had commanded him concerning this thing, that he should not go after other gods ; but he did not observe what the Lord had commanded. 11 So the Lord said to Solomon, “Because you have done this, and you have not kept My covenant and My statutes, which I have commanded you, I will surely tear the kingdom from you , and will give it to your servant. 4. Rehoboam was given the southern 2 tribes of Israel (called Judah from this time forward), and Jeroboam received the northern 10 tribes of Israel (called Israel from this time forward). Places of Interest 1. Entrance 2. Dan Spring 3. Dan River 4. Flour Mills 5. Pooh Bear Tree 6. Pistachio Tree 7. Wading Pool 8. Jeroboam’s Golden Calf High Place 9. Command Post Lookout 10. Israelite Outer Gate 11. Israelite Inner Gate 12. Canaanite Gate The City of Dan in the Bible 1. God appeared to Jeroboam and promised to bless him if he would serve Him. 1 Kings 11:38: Then it will be, that if you listen to all that I command you and walk in My ways, and do what is right in My sight by observing My statutes and My commandments, as My servant David did, then I will be with you and build you an enduring house as I built for David, and I will give Israel to you. 2. Jeroboam turned away from the Lord and built golden calves in Bethel and Dan. 1 Kings 12:25-31: Then Jeroboam built Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim, and lived there. And he went out from there and built Penuel. 26 Jeroboam said in his heart, “Now the kingdom will return to the house of David. 27 If this people go up to offer sacrifices in the house of the Lord at Jerusalem, then the heart of this people will return to their lord, even to Rehoboam king of Judah; and they will kill me and return to Rehoboam king of Judah.” 28 So the king consulted, and made two golden calves , and he said to them, “It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem; behold your gods, O Israel, that brought you up from the land of Egypt.” 29 He set one in Bethel, and the other he put in Dan . 30 Now this thing became a sin, for the people went to worship before the one as far as Dan. 31 And he made houses on high places, and made priests from among all the people who were not of the sons of Levi. 3. After a severe warning from God, Jeroboam continued in sin. The worship of false gods would eventually seal the doom of the northern 10 tribes of Israel. 1 Kings 13:33–34: Even after this, Jeroboam did not change his evil ways, but once more appointed priests for the high places from all sorts of people. Anyone who wanted to become a priest he consecrated for the high places. 34 This was the sin of the house of Jeroboam that led to its downfall and to its destruction from the face of the earth. 4. The sin of Jeroboam became a pattern that the rest of the kings of Israel would follow. 1 Kings 15:33–34: In the third year of Asa king of Judah, Baasha son of Ahijah became king of all Israel in Tirzah, and he reigned twenty-four years. 34 He did evil in the eyes of the LORD, walking in the ways of Jeroboam and in his sin, which he had caused Israel to commit. 1 Kings 16:26: He [Omri] walked in all the ways of Jeroboam son of Nebat and in his sin, which he had caused Israel to commit, so that they provoked the LORD, the God of Israel, to anger by their worthless idols. 5. In 722 BC, as judgment from God for their continual disobedience, the 10 northern tribes of Israel were deported by the Assyrian Empire. 6. Eighty years later, Josiah became King of Judah and chose to follow God with all his heart. As a result of finding and reading the Scriptures, he led one of the most significant revivals Israel ever experienced. 2 Kings 22:1–2: Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem thirty-one years. His mother's name was Jedidah daughter of Adaiah; she was from Bozkath. 2 He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and walked in all the ways of his father David, not turning aside to the right or to the left. 2 Kings 23:25: Before him, there was no king like him who turned to the Lord with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his might, according to all the law of Moses; nor did any like him arise after him. 7. As a result of Josiah’s obedience, he renewed the covenant of the Lord with Israel and destroyed the golden calves Jeroboam had erected. 2 Kings 23:15: Furthermore, the altar that was at Bethel and the high place which Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel sin, had made, even that altar and the high place he broke down. Then he demolished its stones, ground them to dust, and burned the Asherah. 2 Kings 23:19: Josiah also removed all the houses of the high places which were in the cities of Samaria , which the kings of Israel had made provoking the Lord; and he did to them just as he had done in Bethel. Faith Lesson from the city of Dan 1. Despite God supernaturally revealing Himself two times to Solomon, he turned away from the Lord in his latter years. There is a tendency to grow apathetic the longer we are Christians. Are you apathetic and lukewarm in your relationship with God? 2. Despite God supernaturally revealing himself two times to Jeroboam, he turned his back on God and built altars to false gods all throughout the land. God gives grace to each person to receive and obey Him, but those who reject Him and His grace will be judged accordingly. 3. The sin of Jeroboam became a pattern that the rest of the kings of the northern tribes of Israel followed. What kind of example are we? Are we following the sinful patterns of our parents and those around us? 4. In 722 BC, the 10 northern tribes of Israel were deported because of their refusal to return to God. 5. The worship of false gods at Bethel and Dan became the downfall of the northern tribes of Israel. False gods and idols can be anything we make more important in our lives than God. Do you have any idols in your life? 6. Josiah chose to follow God with all his heart and tore down the two golden calf altars Jeroboam had set up. Do we follow God with all our heart like Josiah, and work with God to tear down the lies and false philosophies of Satan and the world with God’s Word (2 Cor. 10:4–5)?

Videos About Mount Tabor In Israel and the Transfiguration of Christ. Mount Tabor is the best candidate for the transfiguration of Christ. It has a lot of evidence dating back to the Old Testament, along with believers after the time of Christ, who set this site aside as the true place of the transfiguration. Sites of interest include the Franciscan Basilica of the Transfiguration, St. Elias Greek Orthodox Church, Descentibus Chapel, Melchizedek Chapel. Mt. Tabor: Transfiguration of Christ Photo Gallery Places of Interest Mount Tabor Transfiguration of Christ Location 1. Mount Tabor, rising like a dome-like mountain from the Plain of Jezreel, is the place where Christian tradition places the transfiguration of Jesus. 2. It’s about 11 miles (15 km.) southwest of the Sea of Galilee and about 5 miles (8 km.) east of Nazareth. 3. Mount Tabor stands some 1,500 ft. (457 m.) above the Jezreel Valley plain in Lower Galilee. 4. It held a strategic position at the junction of several trade routes. For this reason, many battles have been fought around it. 5. It's mentioned as one of the key mountains in Scripture: The north and the south, you have created them; Tabor and Hermon joyously praise your name (Psalm 89:12). 6. While some people believe that the transfiguration took place on another mountain, such as Mount Hermon in northern Israel, every historical document that we have tells us that this miracle took place on Mount Tabor in the Jezreel Valley. There have been multiple churches on this site that have confirmed this tradition. Historical Background 1. In the Old Testament, Mount Tabor is described as a sacred mountain and a place for worship. However, it's not mentioned by name in the New Testament. 2. Throughout its history, it has been a place where mankind has sought contact with the divine. 3. It also served as an important fortress during the Old Testament, Greek, Roman, and Crusader times. 4. It is best known as the believed place where the transfiguration of Christ took place, an event in the Gospels in which Jesus is transfigured upon an unnamed mountain and speaks with Moses and Elijah as described in Matthew 17:1–9; Mark 9:2–8; and Luke 9:28–36. 5. It would make sense that if the Apostles quickly revealed the miracle of the Transfiguration, they would also indicate where it happened. Not surprisingly, first-century Christians would be curious about the location as well. It is fairly obvious on which side of the location debate history is on. The earliest identification of the Mount of Transfiguration as Tabor is by Origen in the 3rd century, where he says, "Tabor is the mountain of Galilee on which Christ was transfigured." 6. Christian tradition in the early centuries named Mount Tabor as the place of the transfiguration of Christ. This location is cited in early apocryphal writings and was accepted by the Syriac and Byzantine churches. 7. Around 350 AD, both Saint Cyril of Jerusalem (Catechetical Lectures, 2, 16) and Saint Jerome (Ep. xlvi, ad Marcel.; Ep. viii, ad Paulin.; Ep. cviii, ad Eust.) declared, categorically, that the miracle happened on Mount Tabor. During this time Christians started making pilgrimages to this mountain. 8. Around 450 AD, Saint Proculus, Patriarch of Constantinople (447 AD; Oration 8, in Transfiguration), Agathangelus (History of the Armenians, 2, 17), and Arnobius the Younger (d. 460; Commentary in Psalms. 88, 13) all say that the miracle took place on Mount Tabor. 9. In 553 AD, the Fifth Council of Constantinople decided that Mount Tabor should have churches built there. And by 570 AD, a Byzantine church was standing on Mount Tabor, with chapels dedicated to Moses and Elijah (Pilgrim of Piacenza). During the 8th century there was at least one more church added, and a monastery. 10. During the Byzantine period, due to the importance of Mount Tabor in Christian tradition, it became a pilgrimage site from the 4th century and onward. According to descriptions of the pilgrims visiting this site during the 6th century, there were three churches that resided on the top of Mount Tabor. 11. Some biblical scholars today now question this tradition. These scholars see the much higher Mount Hermon as a more likely location as it was closer to Caesarea Philippi, where Peter’s confession of Christ took place. However, this is very unlikely for the following reason. After the transfiguration of Christ, He descended the mountain and was met by a crowd of people: Matthew 17:14: "And when they came to the crowd , a man came up to him and, kneeling before him." Mount Hermon was in a district that the Jews did not go to because it was filled with pagan worship and gentiles. Therefore, it would be extremely unlikely that a large crowd of Jews would be in this area. Also, according to Mark 9:30, right after this event, "They left that place and passed through Galilea." Mount Hermon and Caesarea Philippi were not in the Galilean region, so again, it's very unlikely Mount Hermon was the site where the Transfiguration of Christ took place. 12. Mount Tabor is a much better candidate, and there is great value in considering the 2,000-year-old tradition of history at this site. 13. Scripture says that the transfiguration of Christ took place 6 days after Peter’s confession of Christ in Caesarea Philippi. Mount Tabor is only about 40 miles (65 km.) south of Caesarea Philippi, which could easily have been reached in 6 days. 14. It’s really not important where this event happened but that it did happen. 15. Today, there are two main churches and monasteries on top of Mount Tabor, marking the event of the transfiguration of Christ. They include the Franciscan Basilica of the Transfiguration and St. Elias Greek Orthodox Church. Places of Interest 1. Franciscan Basilica of the Transfiguration – The main church that is visited and sits at the highest part of Mount Tabor. This church, which is part of a Franciscan monastery complex, was completed in 1924. It was built on the ruins of an ancient (4th–6th-century) Byzantine church and a 12th-century church of the Crusader Kingdom period. 2. St. Elias Greek Orthodox Church – Located on the northern side of Mount Tabor. It’s named after the Prophet Elijah. 3. Tower & Walls 4. Other ancient structures, chapels, cisterns, and quarries. 5. Descentibus Chapel: As you approach the church compound, on the right side of the road you will see the chapel. It marks the traditional spot where Jesus told his Apostles not to speak of the Transfiguration that they just witnessed until He rose from the dead. 6. Melchizedek Chapel 7. Jezreel Valley Mount Tabor in the Bible 1. Mount Tabor is mentioned 12 times in Scripture. 2. It's first mentioned in Joshua 19:22 as a border between the three tribes of Zebulun, Issachar, and Naphtali. The mountain's prominence is due to its strategic location at the junction of Galilee's north-south route, along with the east-west highway of the Jezreel Valley. 3. According to Judges chapter 4, Hazor was the seat of Jabin, the king of Canaan. His military commander, Sisera, led a Canaanite army against the Israelites. Deborah, the Jewish prophetess, summoned Barak of the tribe of Naphtali and gave him the following command from God. Judges 4:14–16: And Deborah said to Barak, “Up! For this is the day in which the Lord has given Sisera into your hand. Does not the Lord go out before you?” So, Barak went down from Mount Tabor with 10,000 men following him. 15 And the Lord routed Sisera and all his chariots and all his army before Barak by the edge of the sword. And Sisera got down from his chariot and fled away on foot. 16 And Barak pursued the chariots and the army to Harosheth-hagoyim, and all the army of Sisera fell by the edge of the sword; not a man was left. 4. Transfiguration of Christ. Matthew 17:1–13: And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James, and John, his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. 2 And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light. 3 And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. 4 And Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” 5 He was still speaking when, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” 6 When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces and were terrified. 7 But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” 8 And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only. 9 And as they were coming down the mountain, Jesus commanded them, “Tell no one the vision, until the Son of Man is raised from the dead.” 10 And the disciples asked him, “Then why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?” 11 He answered, “Elijah does come, and he will restore all things. 12 But I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but did to him whatever they pleased. So also, the Son of Man will certainly suffer at their hands.” 13 Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them of John the Baptist. 5. After descending Mount Tabor, Christ healed a man and used Mount Tabor as an example of faith. Matthew 17:14–20: And when they came to the crowd, a man came up to him and, kneeling before him, 15 said, “Lord, have mercy on my son, for he has seizures and he suffers terribly. For often he falls into the fire, and often into the water. 16 And I brought him to your disciples, and they could not heal him.” 17 And Jesus answered, “O faithless and twisted generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him here to me.” 18 And Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him, and the boy was healed instantly. 19 Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?” 20 He said to them, “Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain , ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.” Faith Lesson from Mount Tabor 1. The transfiguration of Christ is another proof that He was truly the Son of God and divine. 2. It cemented in the hearts of Peter, James, and John, who would become key leaders in the early church, that Christ was definitely the Messiah and God the Father in the flesh. 3. The Apostle Peter looked back to this landmark event of the transfiguration to speak about how sure and solid our faith in Christ and His Word is. 2 Peter 1:16–21: For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,” 18 we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain [mount of transfiguration]. 19 And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, 20 knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation [source or wisdom]. 21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. 4. Are we anchored in our faith and unmovable? 5. Do we believe Christ was God in the flesh, and are we willing to follow Him and be His disciples? 6. Do we have faith that we can move spiritual mountains if we have faith in Christ?

See and learn about the famous Madaba Map! Madaba, in Jordan, possesses the oldest map of the Holy Land and beyond. Located in St. George's Greek Orthodox Church, it's made of small tiles and is extremely accurate. Madaba: Madaba Map & St. George's Church Madaba: Madaba Map & St. George's Church Location 1. Madaba is about 25 miles (40 km.) east of Jericho and 20 miles (32 km.) southwest of Amman, Jordan. 2. It's located on the King's Highway, a famous road that linked Africa and Egypt with Asia and Europe. This was a major traffic and trade route during ancient times. 3. Modern roads today still follow the same route as it provides the best geographical way to navigate the natural terrain. Historical Background 1. Madaba can be traced back at least 4,500 years. The ancient settlement, now mostly buried ben eath the modern town, lies on a natural rise created by branches of the Wadi Madaba. 2. Madaba has a long history. It once belonged to the Moabites, Nabateans, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Muslum rule, and today, is home to the biggest Christian community in all of Jordan, proportionally speaking. Catholics and Greek Orthodox Christians make up around 10 percent of the total population of Madaba. 3. Accounts of Christians living in Madaba can be traced back to around 200 AD. Partial evidence for this can be found in the Acts of the Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD. They appear to have erected sites of worship in the area. Later, during the Byzantine period, around 350 AD, they erected a church where St. George's Church is located today. 4. During the 5-8 centuries AD, many mosaics were built in Madaba, causing it to be called "the City of the Map, or Maps." The most elaborate and famous of these mosaic maps is located where the Church of St. George is today and is called the "Madaba Map." 5. The Byzantine church known today as St. George's Church stood on the very spot of this famous mosaic map but was destroyed by an earthquake in the 8th century. After this, it lay largely abandoned for many centuries. It stayed desolate until the 19th century when its remnants were discovered. 6. In the 1880s, tensions arose between Muslims and Christians in the city of Karak, Jordan, and the Christians were forced to leave and relocate to Madaba. These Christians wanted to build churches but only were allowed to do so on the condition that these churches were built on sites where churches had once stood before. 7. These Christians originally lived in caves as they had no homes yet. However, as they began building homes, they often did so over the foundations of ancient structures. In so doing, they came upon mosaic after mosaic. Many were incorporated as floors in the new houses being built by the settlers. The announcement in 1897 of the discovery of the famous "Madaba Map" of the Holy Land, dating to the Byzantine era, created a sensation. By the end of the century, the majority of the known mosaics of Madaba had been at least partially uncovered. In most cases, they were preserved and can be seen today. 8. At the heart of Madaba is St. George's Greek Orthodox Church. The church broke ground in 1884 when the Greek Orthodox community saved enough funds to start construction. But to the surprise of the builders, under it were the remains of a Byzantine Church dating back to the 3rd century AD. It was on the floor of this ancient Greek church that the earliest, most extant map of Israel and surrounding areas were found that today is called the "Madaba Map." It has 157 captions (in Greek) depicting all the major biblical sites of the Middle East. This mosaic map is dated to around 560 AD. It was originally around 66 ft. (20 m.) long and 20 ft. (6m) wide. It once contained more than two million pieces, but only one-third of the original mosaic has survived. Sites of Interest 1. St. George's Greek Orthodox Church Famous Madaba Map The Madaba Mosaic is located in the apse of St. George's Church. As you approach the map, you will discover that it is oriented to the east (most tourists assume northwards). Therefore, your east is the top of the map, and the north falls on your left-hand side. In the center of the map, there is a very detailed description of Jerusalem. At the center of the map is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which marks the place of Golgotha, where Christ was crucified, buried, and rose from the dead. On the right side of Jerusalem, you will find Bethlehem, and on the left, you will see Jacob’s well. In the upper-middle part, there is the Sea of Galilee with two boats. 2. Madaba Visitor Ce nter Madaba’s visitor center is worth a visit to learn more about Madaba’s history and its mosaics. It's located in a scenic, renovated traditional house and is right next to St. George's Church and the Archeological Park. 3. Madaba Archeological Park While the map of Madaba in Saint George’s Church gets most of the attention, some claim that the most beautiful mosaics are at Madaba’s Archeological Park. Here you can find some of the oldest mosaics in Jordan. The site has some Roman ruins as well as the remains from the church of the Virgin Mary. Some of the most beautiful mosaics are in the Hippolytus H all, where you can find another famous Madaba mosaic that tells the myth of Hippolytus. 4. Apostles' Church The largest mosaic floor can be found at the Apostles' Church. The church might look rather simple, but the inside is beautiful. The mosaic is dedicated to the twelve apostles and has lots of images, including animals and other interesting details. 5. Church of St. John the Baptist This Roman Catholic church is the only tourist place in Madaba where mosaics are not the main attraction. Although there is a small museum with some replicas, One of the biggest reasons to visit this church is to climb the bell tower. From the very top, it provides a spectacular view over Madaba. Madaba in the Bible Note: The Hebrew word for Madaba is Medeba 1. Madaba occurs in the Bible as part of a lament describing the conquest of a series of Moabite cities, including Madaba, by the Amorite King Sihon of Heshbon. Numbers 21:30 : But we have shot them down with arrows, Heshbon is destroyed as far as Dibon, then we have laid waste as far as Nophah, which reaches to Medeba ” [Madaba]. 2. Madaba was part of the inheritance of the 2 1/2 tribes of Isreal that settled on the east side of the Jordan River. Joshua 13:8-9: With the other half-tribe, the Reubenites and the Gadites received their inheritance which Moses gave them beyond the Jordan to the east, just as Moses the servant of the Lord gave to them; 9 from Aroer, which is on the edge of the Valley of the Arnon, with the city which is in the middle of the valley, and all the plain of Medeba [Madaba], as far as Dibon. Joshua 13:15-16: So Moses gave an inheritance to the tribe of the sons of Reuben according to their families. 16 Their territory was from Aroer, which is on the edge of the Valley of the Arnon, with the city which is in the middle of the valley and all the plain by Medeba [Madaba]. 3. When King David wanted to show kindness to the son of Nahash, king of Ammon, his servants were humiliated. Then, the son of Nahash went to war with King David but was defeated at Madaba. 1 Chronicles 19:7: So they hired for themselves thirty-two thousand chariots, and the king of Maacah and his people, who came and camped opposite Medeba. And the sons of Ammon gathered together from their cities and came to the battle. 4. It was conquered by Israelite King Omri, as found in Numbers 32 and 2 Kings 3:4-27. 5. The prophet Isaiah pronounced judgment over Madaba. Isaiah 15:2: The people have gone up to the temple and to Dibon, to the high places to weep. Moab wails over Nebo and Medeba [Madaba]; Everyone’s head is bald and every beard is cut off.