Hebron is mentioned 72 times in the Bible. It's the beginning place of the nation of Israel. God's promises and covenants with Abraham and his descendants happened in Hebron or nearby. Later, from Hebron, David would reign for 7 1/2 years before becoming king over all Israel in Jerusalem. Sites of interest include Macpelah: Cave of the Patriarchs, where Abraham, Sara, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Leah are buried. Oaks of Mamre, David's Palace, Tel Hebron (Tel Rumeida). Hebron: Caves of Machpelah Photo Gallery Places of Interest Hebron: Caves of Machpelah Introduction Welcome to the Caves of Machpelah. Many significant events from the Bible took place in this area. These are the highlights. 1. After God affirmed His covenant with Abraham, he built an altar to the Lord nearby at Mamre. Mamre is located within Hebron, just one mile (1.5 km) north of the Cave of Machpelah. 2. At Hebron, Abraham bought the Cave of Machpelah as a burial place for his wife, Sarah, and his family. Genesis 23:19: After this, Abraham buried Sarah his wife in the cave of the field at Machpelah facing Mamre (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan. 3. Later, Abraham, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Leah would also be buried in the Cave of Machpelah. 4. Hebron was given to Caleb as an inheritance for his faithfulness to the Lord. 5. Samson carried the gates of Gaza 35 miles (55 km) up to a mountain close to Hebron. 6. David was anointed king in Hebron and reigned here for 7 1/2 years. 7. The Caves of Machpelah mark the beginning place and roots of the nation of Israel. God's promises and covenants with Abraham and his descendants took place in Hebron or its vicinity. These promises would also have wide-reaching implications and include all the nations of the earth. 8. The property of the Caves of Machepelah is the first legal land acquisition in the Promised Land. This fulfilled part of the Abrahamic covenant that God gave Abraham in Genesis chapters 12 and 13. 9. The monument we see today was constructed by Herod the Great around 20 BC. 10. The monument structure we see today is divided into two sections: a Jewish synagogue and a Mosque. We're going to explore and see both sections of the monument. Location 1. The city of Hebron is set in the Judean Mountains, about 20 miles (32 km) south of Jerusalem. 2. Hebron stands 3,000 feet (914 m.) above sea level, making it the highest city in Israel. 3. It is located on a well-traveled route that runs north and south through the mountainous part of Israel. Well-known towns such as Beersheba, Hebron, Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Bethel, Shiloh, and Shechem are located along this route. 4. Abraham and the other patriarchs traveled this route repeatedly. Historical Background 1. The Caves of Machpelah mark the beginning place and roots of the nation of Israel. God's promises and covenants with Abraham and his descendants took place in Hebron or its vicinity. These promises would also have wide-reaching implications and include all the nations of the earth. 2. The property of the Caves of Machepelah is the first legal land acquisition in the Promised Land. This fulfilled part of the Abrahamic covenant that God gave Abraham in Genesis chapters 12 and 13. 3. It began to be venerated during the time the Patriarchs were buried here. Then King David preserved it so it could be remembered and venerated. This is evident in the fact that he built protective walls around Abraham's Altar at the Oaks of Mamre, which can still be seen today. So it's very likely he would have done the same here at this site. We must realize that Abraham and the Patriarchs are monumental in importance to God's master plan. So, this site was set aside and valued to an extent we find hard to understand. 4. So, throughout the Old Testament period, it would be venerated. This can be verified, as pottery and artifacts dating back to King David's time, around 1000 BC, have been found in the caves. 5. Then Herod the Great, around 20 BC, built massive walls around the caves, including a floor about halfway up the walls covering the caves. It had access from this floor down to the caves. Later, during the Muslim Period, the access would be closed off. Herod built the walls around the caves using the same building stone style as the Temple Mount Platform and the structure he built just a short distance to the north, at the Oaks of Mamre, where Abraham had built an altar. 6. After the time of Herod, during the Byzantine Period, around 325 AD, Christians built a Basilica Church on top of the floor inside the walls of the structure Herod built. 7. During the Muslim Period, around 650 AD, the basilica church and site were converted into a Mosque. During the 10th century, an entrance was pierced through the north-eastern wall, some distance above the external ground level, and steps from the north and east were built up to it. 8. In 1100 AD, after the Crusaders captured the area, the enclosure once again became a church. During this period, the Byzantine church and other buildings were remodeled, with new gabled and vaulted roofs and elegant windows. Most of the internal buildings visible today date back to the Crusader period. 9. In 1188 AD, the Muslims once again conquered the area. At this time, they reconverted and remodeled the enclosure into a mosque, allowing Christians to continue worshipping there. The red and white building material seen today is from this period. Saladin also added a minaret at each corner—two of which still survive. Samuel ben Samson visited the cave in 1210 and records that visitors wanting to see the original caves must descend by twenty-four steps in a passageway so narrow that the rock touches him on either hand. 10. In around 1320, during the Muslim Mamluk period, cenotaphs were made for each of the Patriarchs and their wives. Cenotaph means tomb, memorial, or marker. These cenotaphs were evenly spaced out on the floor inside the structure. These markers are not directly over the tombs; instead, they serve as markers. There are two caves side by side where all the Patriarchs and their wives are buried. However, the tomb marker of Abraham is directly over the caves. 11. From 1267 to 1967, Jews were not allowed any access inside the structure. They were only allowed to approach as far as the seventh step of the southern steps of the stairway. 12. In 1967, the southern stair access was removed by the Israelis. However, you can still see evidence of it today. In summary, this site has been venerated for nearly 4,000 years. This is quite amazing. Discoveries of the Caves 1. There are many eyewitness accounts of those who have visited the caves below the floor of this structure today. These accounts span the period from approximately 325 to 1981 AD. I should mention that the floor we are standing on was part of the original structure built by Herod the Great. So, you're standing on stones that are approximately 2,000 years old. It's under this floor where the original caves are located. When Herod built the structure, he erected thick outer walls of protection with a floor about halfway up. Access to the caves was through this floor, which led down to them. 2. The word Machpelah means double or side by side. This refers to the two caves located beside each other, where the three patriarchs and their wives were buried. Access to the caves is currently not permitted. There are two accesses to the caves. One is through a narrow shaft measuring about 11 inches (28 centimeters). The other is called the Serdab entrance and is much larger. Both the shaft and Serdab entrances are located in the Isaac and Rebeccah Hall area. 3. T he most recent accounts of Israelis entering the caves take place in 1968 and 1981. 4. In 1967, after the Six-Day War, the area fell into the hands of the Israel Defense Forces. In 1968, Moshe Dayan, the Defence Minister and an amateur archaeologist, attempted to regain access to the tombs. Ignorant of the Serdab entrance, Dayan concentrated his attention on the narrow shaft entrance visible below the decorative grate and had the idea of sending someone thin enough to fit through the shaft and down into the chamber below. Dayan eventually found a slim 12-year-old girl named Michal to assist, sending her into the chamber with a camera. She could see some things underground, but couldn't enter the caves because a rock blocked the entrance. 5. In 1981, Seev Jevin, the former director of the Israel Antiquities Authority, entered the caves by the Serdab access using chisels to remove the sealed-up entrance and discovered the square stone in the round chamber that concealed the cave entrance. The reports state that after entering the first cave, which seemed to Jevin to be empty, he found a passage leading to a second oval chamber, smaller than the first, which contained shards of pottery and a wine jug. Findings published in the Israel Exploration Journal in 2020 stated that the pottery dates back to the time of King David and the 8th century BC, originating from various locations in the Hebron and Jerusalem areas. The caves are located directly below the Cenotaph of Abraham. 6. In 1994, after a bloody massacre, the site was divided between Muslims and Jews to maintain peace. However, for a short time each year, the site is fully open to each group for ten days. 7. Christians are allowed to enter both the Muslim and Jewish areas. Places of Interest 1. Cave of the Patriarchs (Machpelah) Jewish Synagogue Mosque Tombs of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs 2. Tel Hebron (Tel Rumeida) Abraham’s Well Ancient Stairs Tomb of Jesse and Ruth (King David’s father and great-grandmother) Old Olive Trees Ancient Canaanite City Walls The Canaanite wall overlaid by a glacis from the Israelite period Walls and a stone road from the time of Abraham Likely place of King David's Palace Four-room structure from the time of King Hezekiah Ancient Synagogue Stepped street from the Early Roman period Pottery workshop from the Early Roman period Eastern ritual bath from the Early Roman period Western ritual bath from the Early Roman period New Excavations Hebron Observatory 3. Oaks of Mamre (located within Hebron, 1 mile or 1.5 km north of the Cave of Machpelah). Hebron in the Bible 1. After God affirmed His covenant with Abraham, he built an altar to the Lord nearby at Mamre. Genesis 13:17–18: Arise, walk about the land through its length and breadth; for I will give it to you.” 18 Then Abram moved his tent and came and dwelt by the oaks of Mamre, which are in Hebron , and there he built an altar to the Lord. 2. At Hebron, Abraham learned in a dream that his descendants would spend 400 years as slaves in Egypt. Genesis 15:12–14: Now when the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; and behold, terror and great darkness fell upon him. 13 God said to Abram, “Know for certain that your descendants will be strangers in a land that is not theirs, where they will be enslaved and oppressed four hundred years. 14 But I will also judge the nation whom they will serve, and afterward, they will come out with many possessions. 3. At Hebron, Ismael was born to Abraham and Sarah’s handmaid, Hagar (Gen. 16:4). 4. Near Hebron, God made a covenant with Abraham that he would be “the ancestor of a multitude of nations.” Genesis 17:1–8: When Abram was ninety-nine years old the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, “I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless, 2 that I may make my covenant between me and you, and may multiply you greatly.” 3 Then Abram fell on his face. And God said to him, 4 “Behold, my covenant is with you, and you shall be the father of a multitude of nations. 5 No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations. 6 I will make you exceedingly fruitful, and I will make you into nations, and kings shall come from you. 7 And I will establish my covenant between me and you and your offspring after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you. 8 And I will give to you and to your offspring after you the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession, and I will be their God.” 5. At Hebron, Abraham offered hospitality to three servant angels of God and received the promise of a son. Genesis 18:10–14: They said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” And he said, “She is in the tent.” 10 The LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife shall have a son.” And Sarah was listening at the tent door behind him. 11 Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years. The way of women had ceased to be with Sarah. 12 So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I am worn out, and my lord is old, shall I have pleasure?” 13 The LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’ 14 Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son.” 6. At Hebron, Abraham bought the Cave of Machpelah as a burial place for his wife, Sarah, and his family. Genesis 23:19: After this, Abraham buried Sarah his wife in the cave of the field at Machpelah facing Mamre (that is, Hebron ) in the land of Canaan. 7. Later, Abraham, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Leah would also be buried in the Cave of Machpelah. 8. Jacob returned to Hebron after he had sojourned in Paddan-aram. Genesis 35:27: Jacob came to his father Isaac at Mamre of Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron ), where Abraham and Isaac had sojourned. 9. Joseph was sent from Hebron to Shechem, where he would be sold into slavery and taken to Egypt. Genesis 37:14: Then he said to him, “Go now and see about the welfare of your brothers and the welfare of the flock, and bring word back to me.” So he sent him from the valley of Hebron , and he came to Shechem. 10. Near Hebron, two of the spies who researched the Promised Land returned with a large cluster of grapes. Numbers 13:21–23: So the men explored the land from the Desert of Zin to the border of Hamath. 22 They went through the Negev and came to Hebron , where Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai lived. They are descendants of Anak. (Hebron was built seven years before Zoan in Egypt.) 23 When they came to the Eshcol Valley, they cut off a branch with only one bunch of grapes on it. They carried it on a pole between two of them. 11. Hebron was given to Caleb as an inheritance for his faithfulness to the Lord. Joshua 14:13–14: So Joshua blessed him and gave Hebron to Caleb the son of Jephunneh for an inheritance. 14 Therefore, Hebron became the inheritance of Caleb, the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite until this day, because he followed the Lord God of Israel fully. 12. Samson carried the gates of Gaza 35 miles (55 km) up to a mountain close to Hebron. Judges 16:1–3: But Samson lay till midnight, and at midnight he arose and took hold of the doors of the gate of the city and the two posts, and pulled them up, bar and all, and put them on his shoulders and carried them to the top of the hill that is in front of Hebron . 13. David was anointed king in Hebron and reigned here for 7 1/2 years (2 Sam. 2:1–4, 11). Faith Lesson from Hebron 1. God confirmed His promises and covenants with Abraham at Hebron and fulfilled them all. Do we believe and embrace the promises of God? 2. Caleb was one of the faithful spies who received Hebron as a reward. Are we faithful like Caleb, and do we have our hope placed in our eternal home in heaven as our reward? 3. David was anointed king in Hebron because he was a person after God’s own heart. Do we love the Lord like David, and are we desiring to serve Him in significant ways as David did?

Learn about Ashdod and the 5 cities of the Philistines. What all happened in Ashdod? What is its history? Who were the Philistines, where did they come from, and where did they live? They are mentioned in many places in the Old Testament and were the enemies of the Israelites. The Other Cities Were: Ekron, Ashkelon, Gaza, and Gath. Biblical Ashdod Photo Gallery Places of Interest Ashdod 1. Ashdod is located on the Mediterranean Sea and is the northernmost city of the five Philistine cities. 2. It's about 18 miles (29 km) south of Jaffa and Tel Aviv. 3. Tel Ashod is just about 2.5 miles (4.5 km) inland from the sea. It remains in its natural form and has had some excavations carried out but not extensive ones. 4. It appears that the city was large and extended all the way to the sea, or had another part of the city that was by the sea. 5. During the conquest of the Promised Land under Joshua and the Israelites, giants known as Anakim were found here (Josh. 11:22). Ashdod was allotted to Judah, but they failed to conquer it (Josh. 13:3, 15:46–47). 6. During the time of Samuel, Ashdod and the other main cities of the Philistines were still independent. 7. Ashdod was conquered and came under the authority of Assyria around 711 BC. Later, Babylon also conquered it around 605 BC. 8. In later times, the Ashdod-Yam Fortress (also called Qal’at el-Mina) was built by Caliph Abd al-Malik (685-705 AD) at the end of the seventh century AD on the ruins of a Byzantine settlement. The fortress was part of a coastal defense system designed to prevent a Byzantine invasion from the sea. The system consisted of a string of strongholds along the Mediterranean Sea situated in sight of one another. In times of danger, messages were conveyed using fire beacons (at night) and smoke signals (during the day). In 1033, the fortress was destroyed by an earthquake and abandoned. It was reconstructed and resettled during the Crusader Period (12th and 13th centuries AD). Its name was changed to Castellum Beroart. It was finally abandoned after the Crusaders were banished from the country in 1290. Places of Interest 1. Tel Ashdod 2. Ashdod-Yam Fortress Ashdod in the Bible 1. The Philistines captured the Ark of the Covenant and took it to Ashdod, and placed it in the House of Dagon (their false god). 1 Samuel 5:1-2: Now the Philistines took the ark of God and brought it from Ebenezer to Ashdod . 2 Then the Philistines took the ark of God and brought it into the house of Dagon , and placed it beside Dagon. The Ark may have resided in the house of their false god, Dagon, which could have been by the sea. From Ashdod, the Ark was taken to Gath. 2. God revealed Himself as the Lord of Lords to the Philistines by making their false god, Dagon, bow down and submit to Him. 1 Samuel 5:3-4: When the Ashdodites got up early the next day, behold, Dagon had fallen on his face to the ground before the ark of the Lord. So they took Dagon and set him back in his place. 4 But when they got up early the next morning, behold, Dagon had fallen on his face to the ground before the ark of the Lord. And the head of Dagon and both palms of his hands were cut off on the threshold; only the torso of Dagon was left. 3. God struck the people of Ashdod with tumors to show them He was the true God. 1 Samuel 5:6-7: Now the hand of the Lord was heavy on the Ashdodites , and He made them feel devastated and struck them with tumors , both Ashdod and its territories. 7 When the men of Ashdod saw that it was so, they said, “The ark of the God of Israel must not remain with us, because His hand is severe on us and on Dagon our god.” 4. God prophesied that a people of mixed origins or nationalities would live in Ashdod and among the Philistines. This was certainly fulfilled in history and can even be seen today. Zechariah 9:6: And a people of mixed origins will live in Ashdod , and I will eliminate the pride of the Philistines . 5. Ashdod was the recipient of many prophecies proclaiming its doom and destruction. Isaiah 20:11, Amos 1:8, Jeremiah 25:20, and Zechariah 2:4, 9:6. However, Ashdod continued to be inhabited as the Jews intermarried with its inhabitants after their return from Babylon (Neh. 13:23–24). 6. In the New Testament, Ashdod is called Azotus. Acts 8:40: But Philip found himself at Azotus , and as he passed through he preached the gospel to all the towns until he came to Caesarea. Faith Lesson from Ashdod 1. God revealed Himself as the Creator and true Lord to the Philistines on different occasions so they would know He was the true God. God reveals Himself to everyone through His creation, so that no one can claim to be without excuse. Romans 1:18-20: For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of people who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, being understood by what has been made, so that they are without excuse . 3. Any person from any nation was welcome to join in the Jewish faith, obtain salvation, and be right with God. The Philistines had this opportunity, like every other nation. 4. What about us? Are we right with God and letting our lights shine to a world that needs God and His salvation through Jesus Christ?

The crossing of the Jordon was a much bigger miracle than we think. The river was at flood stage, and its waters backed up for about 20 miles while the 3 million or more Israelites crossed the river. A wall of water would have accumulated that would have been about 100 ft. (30 m.) high, as this is. Adam: The place where the waters of the Jordan backed up to when the Israelites crossed the river (20 miles, 32 km., above the crossing site), Shittim, Camp Gilgal, Jericho. Jordan River Crossing into the Promised Land Photo Gallery Places of Interest Jordan River: Crossing into the Promised Land Introduction Welcome to this site on the Jordan, where the Israelites crossed the river into the Promised Land. 1. It was a far bigger miracle than most think. 2. It was also here that John the Baptist baptized many people. 3. There are many churches and monuments marking these biblical events. Location 1. The crossing place where the Israelites entered the Promised Land is just opposite Jericho. 2. It’s amazing that it’s in the same area where John the Baptist baptized many and where John baptized Jesus. 3. Today, it’s known as Qasr el Yahud (Kasser Al Yahud, Qaser, the Baptismal Site of Jesus. 4. It’s about 2 miles (3.3 km.) east of Hwy. 90, opposite Jericho. Historical Background 1. The nation of Israel spent 430 years in Egypt. Four hundred of these years they were slaves (Gen. 15:13), and thirty years they enjoyed peace during the time Joseph was alive. 2. God supernaturally delivered the Israelites out of the hands of the Egyptians through Moses. 3. After the Exodus, they crossed the Red Sea on dry ground. 4. They spent a year at Mount Sinai receiving the Law and then headed to Kadesh Barnea to enter the Promised Land. 5. After the 12 spies returned from scouting out the land, 10 spies convinced the people that the inhabitants of the land were too strong for them to conquer and they should return to Egypt (Num. 13:25–33). 6. Because of their unbelief and disobedience, they were banned from entering the Promised Land and ordered to wander in the desert 40 years until every person 20 years old, and older died (Num. 14:20–25). 7. During the 40 years of wandering in the desert, entering the Promised Land became a deep yearning within the souls of the new generation. Day after day they dreamt about a new life in the Promised Land, which would bring an end to their seemingly vain wandering in the desert eating Manna day after day. 8. After 40 long years, they were poised to enter the Promised Land, and their hearts were overflowing with enthusiasm and expectation as the time had finally arrived. 9. The word “Hebrew” means to cross over. Abraham crossed over from false gods to the one and only true God. He crossed over physically by leaving his homeland and coming to the Promised Land. The Israelites were delivered by God from the Egyptians as they crossed through the Red Sea, and then crossed through the Jordan River into the Promised Land. All these acts are pictures of deliverance and salvation. We also cross over from death to life through Christ. Places of Interest 1. Crossing site of the Israelites into the Promised Land. 2. Baptismal Site of Jesus: The believed place where Jesus was baptized and where many are baptized today. 3. Adam: The place where the waters of the Jordan backed up to when the Israelites crossed the river (20 miles, 32 km., above the crossing site). 4. Shittim 5. Camp Gilgal 6. Jericho 7. Church of John the Baptist 8. Elijah's Hill 9. Cave of John the Baptist 10. Bethany Beyond the Jordan Crossing the Jordan River in the Bible 1. Before entering the Promised Land, the Israelites camped on the east side of the Jordan River, opposite Jericho. Joshua 3:1: Then Joshua rose early in the morning, and they set out from Shittim . And they came to the Jordan , he and all the people of Israel, and lodged there before they passed over. 2. The Israelites crossed the Jordan River on dry ground as God miraculously parted the waters. Joshua 3:14–17: So when the people set out from their tents to pass over the Jordan with the priests bearing the ark of the covenant before the people, 15 and as soon as those bearing the ark had come as far as the Jordan , and the feet of the priests bearing the ark were dipped in the brink of the water (now the Jordan overflows all its banks throughout the time of harvest ), 16 the waters coming down from above stood and rose up in a heap very far away, at Adam [20 miles, 32 km. north], the city that is beside Zarethan, and those flowing down toward the Sea of the Arabah, the Salt Sea [Dead Sea], were completely cut off. And the people passed over opposite Jericho. 17 Now the priests bearing the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood firmly on dry ground in the midst of the Jordan , and all Israel was passing over on dry ground until all the nation finished passing over the Jordan . Using the geographical layout of the land from Adam to the crossing of the Jordan site, the body of water that would have accumulated would have been 20 miles (32 km.) long, 2 miles (3.2 km.) wide, and around 120 ft. (37 m.) high. 3. God ordered that 12 stones be taken out of the Jordan River for a monument. Joshua 4:1–7: When all the nation had finished passing over the Jordan , the Lord said to Joshua, 2 “Take twelve men from the people, from each tribe a man, 3 and command them, saying, ‘Take twelve stones from here out of the midst of the Jordan, from the very place where the priests' feet stood firmly, and bring them over with you and lay them down in the place where you lodge tonight [Gilgal].’” 4 Then Joshua called the twelve men from the people of Israel, whom he had appointed, a man from each tribe. 5 And Joshua said to them, “Pass on before the ark of the Lord your God into the midst of the Jordan , and take up each of you a stone upon his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the people of Israel, 6 that this may be a sign among you. When your children ask in time to come, ‘What do those stones mean to you?’ 7 then you shall tell them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord. When it passed over the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. So these stones shall be to the people of Israel a memorial forever.” It appears that the 12-Stone Monument was later moved to the permanent Gilgal located about 7 miles north of Camp Gilgal. For more, please see Gilgal. 4. Joshua also erected a monument in the middle of the Jordan River. Joshua 4:9–10: And Joshua set up twelve stones in the midst of the Jordan , in the place where the feet of the priests bearing the ark of the covenant had stood; and they are there to this day. 10 For the priests bearing the ark stood in the midst of the Jordan until everything was finished that the Lord commanded Joshua to tell the people, according to all that Moses had commanded Joshua. 5. After crossing the river, the water flowed again, and the Israelites arrived at Camp Gilgal. Joshua 4:15–19: And the Lord said to Joshua, 16 “Command the priests bearing the ark of the testimony to come up out of the Jordan.” 17 So Joshua commanded the priests, “Come up out of the Jordan.” 18 And when the priests bearing the ark of the covenant of the Lord came up from the midst of the Jordan , and the soles of the priests' feet were lifted up on dry ground, the waters of the Jordan returned to their place and overflowed all its banks , as before. 19 The people came up out of the Jordan on the tenth day of the first month, and they encamped at Gilgal on the east border of Jericho. 6. Joshua set up 12 stones as a monument of remembrance. Joshua 4:20–24: And those twelve stones, which they took out of the Jordan , Joshua set up at Gilgal. 21 And he said to the people of Israel, “When your children ask their fathers in times to come, ‘What do these stones mean?’ 22 then you shall let your children know, ‘Israel passed over this Jordan on dry ground.’ 23 For the Lord your God dried up the waters of the Jordan for you until you passed over, as the Lord your God did to the Red Sea , which he dried up for us until we passed over, 24 so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the Lord is mighty, that you may fear the Lord your God forever.” Faith Lesson from Crossing the Jordan River 1. Entering the Promised Land was a long-awaited dream for the new generation of Israelites after wandering in the desert for 40 years. It was also the fulfillment of the Abrahamic Covenant of promise, one of the foundational covenants in the Bible. Is there some hope and dream you have that seems like it will never happen? Do you also really believe that God will fulfill His promise of heaven and that one day you’ll actually be there? And are you living in such a way that shows this? 2. Crossing into the Promised Land is also a picture of living in victory. Unfortunately, many Christians today choose to live in the wilderness in defeat and disobedience. Are you living in obedience and victory or living in the wilderness? 3. The crossing of the Jordan was a much bigger miracle than we think as the river was at flood stage, overflowing its banks. As mentioned, the body of water that would have accumulated would have been 20 miles (32 km.) long, 2 miles (3.2 km.) wide, and around 120 ft. (37 m.) high. This was a massive body and wall of water the 3 million or more Israelites would have witnessed as they walked alongside it for about 2 miles (3.2 km.). 4. The miracle was similar to the crossing of the Red Sea after the Israelite’s Exodus from Egypt. God repeated this miracle to reveal His glory and faithfulness. 5. The waters of the Jordan stopped flowing the moment the priests’ stepped into the water. God required the priests to take a step of faith, and then He acted. In the same way, God often asks us to take a step of faith before He moves. What step of faith do we need to take in our lives today? 6. God ordered Joshua to set up a memorial after crossing the Jordan. Do we have memorials in our minds as reminders of the miracles God has done for us, and do we pass these memorials on to our offspring?

It’s the place where it’s believed Jesus was baptized, and where John the Baptist and the disciples of Jesus baptized many people as well. Thousands of pilgrims are baptized here each year because of its spiritual significance. It’s also the location where the Israelites crossed the Jordan. Qasr al-Yahud Baptismal Site, Jew’s Palace (Castle of the Jews), Jordanian Baptismal Site of Jesus, St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, Original Church of John the Baptist, Cave of John the Baptist Qasr al Yahud Baptismal Site of Jesus Photo Gallery Places of Interest Jordan River Baptismal Site of Jesus Qasr al-Yehud Introduction Welcome to the Baptismal site of Jesus here at the Jordan River. Many significant events from the Bible took place here. Here are the highlights. 1. It was here that John the Baptist baptized many people. 2. It was here that John the Baptist baptized Jesus. 3. It is also here that the Israelites crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land. 4. There are many churches, on the other side of the river in the country of Jordan, marking these events. 5. Just imagine all these events happening right here. We are on holy ground. Location There are two main baptismal sites on the Jordan River. Qasr al-Yahud Baptismal Site 1. It’s located about 2 miles (3.2 km.) east of Hwy. 90, across from Jericho. 2. It’s also known as Qaser al-Yahud, Kasser al-Yahud, and the Baptismal Site of Jesus. 3. It’s the place where it’s believed Jesus was baptized, and where John the Baptist and the disciples of Jesus baptized many people as well. 4. The water is not quite as clean as Yardenit, but thousands of pilgrims are baptized there each year because of its spiritual significance. 5. It’s also the believed location where the Israelites crossed the Jordan River to enter the Promised Land. 6. For those desiring to get baptized here in the Jordan River, the Qsar al-Yahud gift shop provides white robes and towels for a small fee. 7. Qsar al-Yahud also has a gift shop for the purchase of souvenirs and other miscellaneous items. Yardenit Baptismal Site 1. Yardenit is just a couple hundred yards (meters) west of Hwy. 90, at the southern tip of the Sea of Galilee. 2. It’s a popular spot, and the water is clean and abundant. 3. For those desiring to get baptized here in the Jordan River, the Yardenit gift shop provides white robes and towels for a small fee. 4. Yardenit has a large gift shop for the purchase of souvenirs and other miscellaneous items as well. 5. For more, please see the Yardenit Baptismal Site. Historical Background 1. The concept of baptism is rooted in the Old Testament. As far back as Genesis, eight people were saved from the great flood of God’s judgment. The Apostle Peter indicated that the water of the flood “symbolizes baptism that now saves you” (1 Pet. 3:21). 2. Old Testament prophets such as Isaiah, Ezekiel, and King David likewise used water as an external symbol for internal cleansing (Isa. 1:16: Ezek. 36:25; Ps. 51:2). Isaiah 1:16: Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean; remove the evil of your deeds from before my eyes; cease to do evil. 3. The word baptize, baptized, baptizing, or baptismal is mentioned around 72 times in the New Testament and, therefore, shows the value God places upon it. Places of Interest 1. Qasr al-Yahud Baptismal Site 2. Hwy. 90 3. Jew’s Palace (Castle of the Jews) 4. Jordanian Baptismal Site of Jesus 5. St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church: On the Jordanian Site of the river. 6. Original Church of John the Baptist. There have been at least 5 churches built at this location dating back to the first and second centuries AD. 7. Cave of John the Baptist 8. Greek Orthodox Church of St John the Baptist 9. The believed location where the Israelites crossed the Jordan River to enter the Promised Land. 10. This area is also associated with the ascension of the Prophet Elijah into heaven, which is commemorated at a hill called Tell Mar Elias or Jabal Mar-Elias (Elijah’s Hill). Baptism in the Bible 1. Baptism in the Old Testament. Baptism in the Old Testament had a different name and purpose than believers' baptism in the New Testament. It served as a purification ritual that happened regularly. Before entering the temple, synagogue, or entering any religious building, the Jews would purify themselves (ritual cleansing) in Mikvahs (purification pools). They also purified themselves before the Sabbath, feast days, and so forth. Purification for a Jew was a regular part of life. Purification involved confession of sin, entering a pool of water, immersing oneself completely, and putting on a new change of clothes. Mikvahs were found everywhere and some of the wealthier population had their own private mikvahs. 2. The Baptism of John the Baptist. John’s baptism picked up on this Jewish concept and took it a step further. His baptism was primarily a baptism of repentance in preparation for the coming Messiah. Matthew 3:1–6: In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” 3 For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.’” 4 Now John wore a garment of camel's hair and a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then Jerusalem and all Judea and all the region about the Jordan were going out to him, 6 and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. 3. Jesus was baptized by John. Matthew 3:13–17: Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. 14 John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” 15 But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. 16 And when Jesus was baptized , immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; 17 and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” 4. Why did Jesus get baptized if He was God in the flesh and perfect? After all, the purpose for Baptism in Jesus’ day was a baptism of repentance. Jesus permitted John the Baptist to baptize Him in order to fulfill all righteousness. He was setting an example for all to follow. Jesus didn’t repent of anything because He was perfect. It also gave God an opportunity to speak audibly and show His pleasure and affirmation of Christ as the Son of God. 5. The Baptism of Jesus. The message and baptism of Jesus dealt with repentance from sin and acceptance of Himself as the Messiah. Matthew 4:17: From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” John 4:1–3: 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. 6. Baptism in the rest of the New Testament. Baptism always followed salvation and was an outward proclamation of an inner conversion. On the day of Pentecost 3,000, people were saved and were baptized. They would have used the existing Jewish mikvahs as baptismal pools. Acts 2:41: So those who received his word were baptized , and there were added that day about three thousand souls. Baptism was an act of obedience symbolizing the believer's faith in a crucified, buried, and risen Savior. Romans 6:1–3: What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? 3 Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. In the same way Jesus died, was buried, and rose again to new life, baptism follows this same pattern. The believer’s placement under the water symbolizes burial and death to sin, and rising up out of the water symbolizes new life in Christ. Baptism does not save us in and of itself; it follows salvation and expresses what has already taken place in the heart of a believer. Baptism is a declaration to others that we are identifying ourselves with Christ and are now one of His disciples. Baptism is commanded in many passages of the Bible and unless we are unable to do so for some unique reason, we should get baptized. Matthew 28:18–20: 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.” Acts 2:37–38: Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Faith Lesson from Baptism 1. Jesus didn’t need to be baptized but did so in order to be an example for us. 2. If we are genuine believers in Christ and have not been baptized, we should do so in order to obey Christ. 3. Baptism does not save us in and of itself, but when connected with our faith in Christ, it cleanses us of sin, identifies us with the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, and declares to others that we are followers of Christ. 4. Baptism symbolizes our newness of life in Christ and that we are now dead to being controlled and defeated by sin. Romans 6:4: We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.

Hebron is mentioned 72 times in the Bible. It's the beginning place of the nation of Israel. God's promises and covenants with Abraham and his descendants happened in Hebron or nearby. Later, from Hebron, David would reign for 7 1/2 years before becoming king over all Israel in Jerusalem. Sites of interest include Macpelah: Cave of the Patriarchs, where Abraham, Sara, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Leah are buried. Oaks of Mamre, David's Palace, Tel Hebron (Tel Rumeida). Hebron Overview Photo Gallery Places of Interest Hebron Overview Location 1. The city of Hebron is set in the Judean Mountains about 20 miles (32 km.) south of Jerusalem. 2. Hebron stands 3,000 feet (914 m.) above sea level, making it the highest city in Israel. 3. It is located on a well-traveled route that runs north and south through the mountainous part of Israel. Well-known towns like Beersheba, Hebron, Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Bethel, Shiloh, and Schechem are located on this route. 4. Abraham and the other patriarchs traveled this route repeatedly. Historical Background 1. Hebron is one of the most popular places in the Bible being mentioned 72 times. 2. It was inhabited by the Canaanites before Abraham and the Israelites arrived. 3. Hebron is the beginning place and roots of the nation of Israel. God's promises and covenants with Abraham and his descendants happened in Hebron or nearby. These promises would also have wide-reaching implications and include all the nations of the earth. 4. Located in Hebron is Machpelah, the Cave of the Patriarchs. Abraham purchased the cave and the adjoining field at full market price as a burial place for his family some 3,700 years ago. The Cave of the Patriarchs building is the second holiest site in Judaism (after the Western Wall in Jerusalem) and is also sacred to Christians and Muslims. In the cave are the tombs of Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebekah, and Jacob and Leah. The tombs of the patriarchs are under the foundation of the building, but their memorial monuments are visible in the building on the first floor. The site was venerated throughout Israel's history, and King David, along with the other kings, preserved and protected it. Just before the time of Christ, King Herod built a massive wall around the cave in around 20 BC to preserve it and establish a memorial place for the Jews. He used the same style of stones as he did for the Temple Mount walls in Jerusalem. In order to appease the Jews, King Herod built three holy sites. These consist of: (1) this site of Machpelah (2) Mamre (just a mile or 1.5 km. north of this site), and (3) the Temple Mount and temple in Jerusalem. This building of Machpelah is the only building in Israel that has remained intact and undamaged since it was built. During the Byzantine period (324-638 AD), the building was used as a church and they erected a small basilica with a roof over part of the interior. The Muslims (638 - 1099 AD) then used it as a mosque. The Crusaders (1099 - 1263) continued to use it as a church and built the roof that exists today that covers the entire building. Today, because Abraham is a central figure in both Judaism and Islam, the Cave of Machpelah building is shared by both the Jews and Muslims. On one side of the building is a synagogue and on the other side is a mosque. The tombs of the patriarchs are under the foundation of the building, but their memorial monuments are visible in the building on the first floor. Places of Interest 1. Cave of the Patriarchs (Machpelah) Jewish Synagogue Mosque Tombs of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs 2. Tel Hebron (Tel Rumeida) Abraham’s Well Ancient Stairs Tomb of Jesse and Ruth (King David’s father and great grandmother) Old Olive Trees Ancient Canaanite City Walls The Canaanite wall overlaid by a glacis from the Israelite period Walls and stone road from the time of Abraham Likely place of King David's Palace Four-room structure from the time of King Hezekiah Ancient Synagogue Stepped street from the Early Roman period Pottery workshop from the Early Roman period Eastern ritual bath from the Early Roman period Western ritual bath from the Early Roman period New Excavations Hebron Observatory 3. Oaks of Mamre (located within Hebron 1 mile or 1.5 km. north of the Cave of Machpelah) Hebron in the Bible 1. After God affirmed His covenant with Abraham, he built an altar to the Lord nearby at Mamre and lived here. Genesis 13:17–18: Arise, walk about the land through its length and breadth; for I will give it to you.” 18 Then Abram moved his tent and came and dwelt by the oaks of Mamre, which are in Hebron , and there he built an altar to the Lord. 2. At Hebron, Abraham learned in a dream that his descendants would spend 400 years as slaves in Egypt. Genesis 15:12–14: Now when the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; and behold, terror and great darkness fell upon him. 13 God said to Abram, “Know for certain that your descendants will be strangers in a land that is not theirs, where they will be enslaved and oppressed four hundred years. 14 But I will also judge the nation whom they will serve, and afterward, they will come out with many possessions. 3. At Hebron, Ismael was born to Abraham and Sarah’s handmaid, Hagar (Gen. 16:4). 4. Near Hebron, God made a covenant with Abraham that he would be “the ancestor of a multitude of nations.” Genesis 17:1–8: When Abram was ninety-nine years old the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, “I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless, 2 that I may make my covenant between me and you, and may multiply you greatly.” 3 Then Abram fell on his face. And God said to him, 4 “Behold, my covenant is with you, and you shall be the father of a multitude of nations. 5 No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations. 6 I will make you exceedingly fruitful, and I will make you into nations, and kings shall come from you. 7 And I will establish my covenant between me and you and your offspring after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you. 8 And I will give to you and to your offspring after you the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession, and I will be their God.” 5. At Hebron, Abraham offered hospitality to three servant angels of God and received the promise of a son. Genesis 18:10–14: They said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” And he said, “She is in the tent.” 10 The LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife shall have a son.” And Sarah was listening at the tent door behind him. 11 Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years. The way of women had ceased to be with Sarah. 12 So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I am worn out, and my lord is old, shall I have pleasure?” 13 The LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’ 14 Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son.” 6. At Hebron, Abraham bought the Cave of Machpelah as a burial place for his wife, Sarah, and his family. Genesis 23:19: After this, Abraham buried Sarah his wife in the cave of the field at Machpelah facing Mamre (that is, Hebron ) in the land of Canaan. 7. Later, Abraham, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Leah would also be buried in the Cave of Machpelah. 8. Jacob returned to Hebron after he had sojourned in Paddan-aram. Genesis 35:27: Jacob came to his father Isaac at Mamre of Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron ), where Abraham and Isaac had sojourned. 9. Joseph was sent from Hebron to Shechem, where he would be sold into slavery and taken to Egypt. Genesis 37:14: Then he said to him, “Go now and see about the welfare of your brothers and the welfare of the flock, and bring word back to me.” So he sent him from the valley of Hebron , and he came to Shechem. 10. Nearby to Hebron, two of the spies who researched the Promised Land returned with a large cluster of grapes. Numbers 13:21–23: So the men explored the land from the Desert of Zin to the border of Hamath. 22 They went through the Negev and came to Hebron , where Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai lived. They are descendants of Anak. (Hebron was built seven years before Zoan in Egypt.) 23 When they came to the Eshcol Valley, they cut off a branch with only one bunch of grapes on it. They carried it on a pole between two of them. 11. Hebron was given to Caleb as an inheritance for his faithfulness to the Lord. Joshua 14:13–14: So Joshua blessed him and gave Hebron to Caleb the son of Jephunneh for an inheritance. 14 Therefore, Hebron became the inheritance of Caleb, the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite until this day, because he followed the Lord God of Israel fully. 12. Samson carried the gates of Gaza 35 miles (55 km.) up to the mountain across from Hebron. Judges 16:1–3: But Samson lay till midnight, and at midnight he arose and took hold of the doors of the gate of the city and the two posts, and pulled them up, bar and all, and put them on his shoulders and carried them to the top of the hill that is in front of Hebron . 13. David was anointed king in Hebron and reigned here for 7 1/2 years (2 Sam. 2:1–4, 11). Faith Lesson from Hebron 1. God confirmed His promises and covenants with Abraham at Hebron and fulfilled them all. Do we believe and embrace the promises of God? 2. Caleb was one of the faithful spies who received Hebron as a reward. Are we faithful like Caleb, and do we have our hope placed in our eternal home in heaven as our reward? 3. David was anointed king in Hebron because he was a person after God’s own heart. Do we love the Lord like David, and are we desiring to serve Him in significant ways as David did?

See all the sites of the Russian Orthodox Church of Mary Magdelene located in Jerusalem. Learn about the life of Mary and how she is an example and inspiration for us today. Church of Mary Magdalene, Jerusalem Photo Gallery Places of Interest Russian Orthodox Church of Mary Magdalene Location 1. It's located on the side of the Mount of Olives, facing Old City Jerusalem. 2. It's just north of the Triumphal Entry path towards the lower part. 3. It's easily spotted as it has one large gilded onion dome and six smaller ones. 4. It makes an especially striking spectacle at night when its floodlit domes seem to be floating above the dark trees surrounding it. Historical Background 1. The Church of Mary Magdalene was built in 1888 by Czar Alexander III of Russia to memorialize his mother, Empress Maria Alexandrovna. Maria had always dreamed of visiting the Holy Land but was unable to because of poor health. Mary Magdalene is venerated with particular devotion in the East Orthodox Church, so it was natural for the Russians to honor her by building this church. 2. Its onion-shaped domes and the general style reflect the architecture of Moscow during the 16th and 17th centuries. Although the intricately decorated façade appears to be made of marble, it's actually sculpted white sandstone. 3. Above the entrance, a circular blue mosaic medallion depicts Mary Magdalene robed in white. 4 . The church commemorates Mary, whose hometown was Magdala, located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. 5. Mary is revered as a saint by the Orthodox, Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran churches. 6. Mary was one of the few people named in the Gospels who was present at Christ’s crucifixion and the first recorded witness of his resurrection. 7. At the site is also a convent that houses about 30 Russian Orthodox nuns from several different countries. While particularly known for the quality of their liturgical singing, they also paint icons, embroider vestments and items for liturgical use, and decorate Russian eggs. 8. The church is part of the Convent of St. Mary Magdalene, a sisterhood established in 1936 by an English convert, and since the 1920s, has been under the jurisdiction of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR), an independent ecclesiastical entity until 2007 and part of the Moscow-based Russian Orthodox Church since then. 9. The magical church is magnificent from a distance, but it is also worth getting a closer look. A tranquil garden surrounds the church. Inside, there are many Orthodox icons and liturgical paintings. The Grand Duchess commissioned Russian artist Sergei Ivanov to create a series of paintings depicting the life of Saint Mary Magdalene. 10. The relics of two martyred saints, Grand Duchess Elizabeth Feodorovna of Russia and her fellow nun Varvara Yakovleva, are displayed in the church. 11. The interior of the church is a blend of bronze and white marble iconostasis, a wall or screen bearing religious icons that separate the sanctuary from the nave, the central part of a church where the congregation usually sits. 12. Its main wall bears a painting of Alexander Ivanov, a prominent 19th-century Russian artist. Commissioned by Elizabeth Fyodorovna, the artwork depicts Mary Magdalene holding a red egg before the Roman emperor Tiberius. According to Eastern Christian tradition, Tiberius mocked her for claiming Jesus rose from the Dead, comparing it to a white egg turning red. In return, an egg Mary held by Mary turned red. Places of Interest 1. Mount of Olives 2. Dominus Flevit Church 3. Triumphal Entry Path 4. Garden of Gethsemane 5. Kidron Valley 6. Tomb of Mary - Gethsemane Cave 7. Temple Mount 8. Old City Jerusalem Mary Magdalene in the Bible 1. Mary was from the town of Magdala, located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee.. Matthew 4:23: And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people. Matthew 15:38–39: Those who ate were four thousand men, besides women and children. 39 And after sending away the crowds, he got into the boat and went to the region of Magadan [Magdala]. 2. Jesus cast out 7 demons from Mary Magdalene. Luke 8:1–3: Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3 and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's household manager, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means. 3. Mary was likely a wealthy widow as she followed Christ everywhere and supported the ministry of Jesus financially. 4. A strong case could be made that Mary was one of Christ’s most devoted and loyal followers. She followed Jesus everywhere and supported Him financially, she was present at the mock trial of Jesus, she heard Pontius Pilate pronounce the death sentence upon Jesus, she saw Jesus beaten and humiliated by the crowd, she was one of the women who stood near Jesus during the crucifixion to try to comfort Him, and she was the first woman Christ appeared to after rising from the dead. 5. Mary looked from a distance at Christ’s crucifixion and then moved in closer during His last suffering hours on the cross. Mark 15:40: There were also women looking on from a distance, among whom were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses, and Salome. John 19:25: But standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 6. Mary Magdalene helped buy expensive spices to anoint the body of Jesus after His crucifixion. Mark 16:1: When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. 7. Mary was the earliest witness to the resurrection of Jesus and was sent by Jesus to tell the others. Mark 16:9: When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons. John 20:11-18: But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept, she stooped to look into the tomb. 12 And she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. 13 They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” 14 Having said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. 15 Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher). 17 Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” 18 Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”—and that he had said these things to her. 8. Even at the very end, Mary never lost her first love for Jesus. Revelation 2:4: But I have this against you, that you have left your first love. 9. There is also no doubt that Mary served Christ alongside the apostles for the rest of her life. Faith Lesson from the Life of Mary Magdalene 1. Christ cast out 7 demons from Mary. This changed her life forever and filled her with deep gratitude to Jesus. Are we grateful for what God has done for us as well? 2. Mary loved Christ profoundly and was one of His most devoted followers. She is the model of what it means to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. Are we devoted to Christ as Mary was? 3. Mary supported Jesus’ ministry financially. Do we support Jesus’ ministries as well? 4. Mary never lost her first love for Christ. Have we lost our first love?

Christ's Miracle of the Feeding of the 5,000 is an amazing event. See where it happened, where Christ walked on water, calmed the storm, and taught His disciples. Tiberias, Mount Arbel, Magdala, Ginasor, Gennesaret, Tabhga, Mount of Beatitudes, Capernaum, Bethsaida, Gamla, Kirsi, Feeding the 5,000, Yardenit, and more. Feeding the 5,000 Photo Gallery Places of Interest Feeding the 5,000 Introduction Welcome to the believed location where Jesus Fed 5,000 people. This is a major event from the Bible that took place here. Here are the highlights. 1. This was an amazing miracle where Jesus miraculously fed a huge multitude with five loaves of bread and two fish. 2. Scripture says there were 5,000 men, not counting women and children. This means there could have easily been 15,000 to 20,000 people present. 3. He had them sit on the grass in groups of 50. This shows how this location could accommodate a large multitude. 4. We'll explain why we believe this is the best location for this astounding miracle. Location 1. The traditional site of this miracle is at Tabgha, located on the northwestern side of the Sea of Galilee. 2. However, this miracle most likely occurred on the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee, a short distance south of Bethsaida. 3. Scripture says Jesus and His disciples were headed to Bethsaida, a desolate or deserted place (Mark 6:31; Luke 9:10). Tabgha is in a very populated area and on the opposite side of the sea from Bethsaida. 4. The large population area was from Tiberias to Capernaum (the northwestern side). The deserted area was on the northeastern and eastern sides of the sea. 5. Bethsaida was a small fishing village and was about the only town on the northeastern side of the sea. 6. Immediately after feeding the 5,000, Jesus ordered His disciples to cross over to the other side of the sea (Matt. 14:22). Scripture says He first sent them to Bethsaida; then they were headed to Capernaum, and they finally wound up at Gennessaret (Ginosar). 7. A strong storm arose while the disciples were crossing over to the other side. Jesus walked on water (Peter also attempted to), and Jesus calmed the storm. 8. The storm seems to have changed the course of their destination, as Scripture says that they ended up arriving in the area of Gennesaret (Matt. 14:34–36). 9. Gennesaret is located on the northwestern side of the sea, the area where most of the population resides. 10. Gennesaret is less than 2 miles (3 km) south of Tabgha. If the miracle happened at Tabgha, going from Tabgha to Gennesaret wouldn’t have crossed over the other side of the sea, as both towns are nearby. 11. After Christ arrived at Gennesaret, many heard he had arrived, and a large multitude gathered for healing. If Christ had just been in the area of Tabgha, it wouldn't make sense that a large crowd would gather again right after Christ had just been there. 12. From the location of the feeding of the 5,000, the disciples headed toward Bethsaida and Capernaum (Mark 6:45; John 6:16–17). Therefore, they had to be south of Bethsaida enough to travel in that direction by boat. 13. For these reasons, we believe the best biblical location for the feeding of the multitude is just south of Bethsaida in this open, flat area. It seems to fit the text and the geography of the land best. Historical Background 1. This miracle happened just after Jesus had sent out the 12 disciples to preach and heal throughout Israel (Luke 9:1–9). 2. You would think that after being used so mightily by God, the disciples would have had more faith. 3. It also took place just after the death of John the Baptist (Matt. 14:1–12). 4. Jesus and His disciples were headed to the remote area of Bethsaida to rest after the long ministry period they had just finished (being sent out two by two, preaching and healing). Luke 9:10–11: On their return, the apostles told him all that they had done. And he took them and withdrew apart to a town called Bethsaida . Mark 6:30–32: The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. 31 And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. 32 And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. 5. However, instead of resting, a huge ministry opportunity awaited them. Mark 6:33–34: Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they ran there on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. 34 When he went ashore, he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things. 6. Scripture mentions that 5,000 were fed, not including women and children. This means there could easily have been 15,000 people or more present. Places of Interest (Please See Maps Above) 1. Bethsaida 2. Tabgha 3. Gennesaret 4. Tiberias 5. Feeding of the 5,000 location. 6. Likely place they arrived and departed with their boat. 7. Mountain upon which Jesus prayed after the feeding of the 5,000. 8. Desolate side of the Sea of Galilee. 9. Populated side of the Sea of Galilee. 10. Sea of Galilee Feeding the 5,000 in the Bible 1. Feeding the multitude Luke 9:10–11: On their return, the apostles told him all that they had done. And he took them and withdrew apart to a town called Bethsaida. 11 When the crowds learned it, they followed him, and he welcomed them and spoke to them of the kingdom of God and cured those who had need of healing. Luke 9:12–17: Now the day began to wear away, and the twelve came and said to him, "Send the crowd away to go into the surrounding villages and countryside to find lodging and get provisions, for we are here in a desolate place." 13 But he said to them, "You give them something to eat." They said, "We have no more than five loaves and two fish—unless we are to go and buy food for all these people." 14 For there were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, "Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each." 15 And they did so, and had them all sit down. 16 And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing over them. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. 17 And they all ate and were satisfied. And what was left over was picked up, twelve baskets of broken pieces. 2. Interestingly, there were twelve baskets. This was no accident, as there were 12 tribes of Israel and 12 apostles. 3. This miracle is similar to what Elisha did in the Old Testament. 2 Kings 4:42-44: A man came from Baal-shalishah, bringing the man of God bread of the firstfruits, twenty loaves of barley and fresh ears of grain in his sack. And Elisha said, “Give to the men, that they may eat.” 43 But his servant said, “How can I set this before a hundred men?” So he repeated, “Give them to the men, that they may eat, for thus says the Lord, ‘They shall eat and have some left.’” 44 So he set it before them. And they ate and had some left, according to the word of the Lord. 4. After feeding the multitude, the people try to force Jesus to be their king. John 6:15: Perceiving then that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king , Jesus withdrew again to the mountain by himself. 5. Jesus went up on a mountain to pray. Matthew 14:23: And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray . When evening came, he was there alone. 6. Jesus sent His disciples to the other side of the sea. Matthew 14:22: Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. Mark 6:45: Immediately, he made his disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, to Bethsaida , while he dismissed the crowd. John 6:16–17: When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea, 17 got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum . The summary of these verses indicates that they were headed west to the other side of the sea. 7. Jesus sends a strong storm. Matthew 14:24: But the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. Mark 6:48: And he saw that they were making headway painfully, for the wind was against them. John 6:17–18: It was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. 18 The sea became rough because a strong wind was blowing. 8. Jesus comes to the disciples, walking on the sea. Matthew 14:25: And in the fourth watch of the night [3:00–6:00 am] he came to them, walking on the sea. John 6:19: When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat. 9. The disciples become terrified. Matthew 14:26: But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified , and said, "It is a ghost!" and they cried out in fear . 10. The emotional state of the disciples: They were already exhausted from their ministry of being sent out two by two. They had a long day of ministry. They rowed all night in a state of panic and desperation. They missed a night of sleep. It was still dark, so it was probably around 4:00 am. They feared for their lives. They were alone. It was dark. They were terrified when they saw Jesus walking on the sea. 11. Jesus speaks to the disciples. Matthew 14:27: But immediately Jesus spoke to them , saying, "Take heart; it is I [I AM, in Greek]. Do not be afraid." 12. Peter walks on the water for a moment. Matthew 14:28–31: And Peter answered him, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." 29 He said, "Come. "So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, "Lord, save me." 31 Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" 13. Jesus calms the storm. Mark 6:52: And he got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased . And they were utterly astounded. 14. The disciples worship Jesus as Lord and Messiah. Matthew 14:32–33: And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. 33 And those in the boat worshiped him , saying, "Truly you are the Son of God." This miracle was a major turning point in the disciples' lives. The deity of Jesus was now deeply embedded in their hearts and lives, and they would never be the same. 15. Jesus and the disciples miraculously arrive at the other side of the sea at Gennesaret. Matthew 14:34: And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret . John 6:21: Then they were glad to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going. 16. After already being exhausted and missing a night's sleep, they had more ministry awaiting them. Matthew 14:35–36: And when the men of that place recognized him, they sent around to all that region and brought to him all who were sick 36 and implored him that they might only touch the fringe of his garment. And as many as touched it were made well. Faith Lesson from Feeding the 5,000 1. The disciples should have had more faith after God used them mightily to preach and heal many people. What about us? Do we lack faith after seeing all God has done for us and others? 2. The crowd later approached Jesus to make Him King. However, Jesus rebuked them because they were just seeking what He could do for them and weren’t interested in true discipleship. Do we tend only to want God’s blessings but no discipleship, sacrifice, suffering, or persecution? 3. Like the crowd Jesus fed, today, many people come to God for help and want to be fixed up. However, they don’t want Christ to be the Lord of their lives. Do we embrace the lordship of Christ, or do we just want our problems solved and then continue living as we please? 4. God also cares for our spiritual needs and likens Himself to spiritual bread. Are you laboring for the bread that endures to eternal life, or are you more focused on temporary things that will soon fade away? 5. Are we feeding our souls daily with God’s Word and the Bread of Life? John 6:35: Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. The one who comes to me will never become hungry, and the one who believes in me will never become thirsty.” Matthew 4:4: It is written, “Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”

What is the reason for the conflict and war in Israel and the Middle East? What is the root cause of the war? We'll look at this important topic here. The Reason for the Wars & Conflicts In Israel What Is the Reason for the War & Conflict In Israel and the Middle East? Introduction What is the real reason for the wars and conflicts we see in Israel and the Middle East? There are root issues going back to around 4,000 years that explain this long ongoing conflict. We are going to explore and show you these issues in this discussion. You will understand things like never before. So, let's explore and see what we can learn about this very important topic! Let’s Define Some Names and Terms 1. Secular Arabs – These are the descendants of Ishmael, one of Abraham’s sons. 2. Muslim Arabs – These are the believers in the Islamic faith, who are generally Arabs, which was founded by Muhammad in around 610 AD. 3. Secular Jews – These are Jews who are not religious and do not follow the Jewish faith. 4. Religio us Jews – These believe and practice Judaism. 5. Pales tine & Palestinian – Roman Emperor Hadrian first used these terms in around 132 AD. He used them after a major conquest and destruction of Israel to eradicate the Jews due to their uprisings. He changed the name of Jerusalem to Aelia Capitolina and the country of Israel to Palestine. He used the word Palestine to refer to the Philistines, one of Israel’s enemies from around 1400 to 1000 BC. His intent was to erase the names of Israel and the Jews and disassociate them from the Holy Land. However, during the time of Hadrian, there were no Philistines that lived. Nonetheless, he did this to eliminate the name Israel and replace it. The term fell out of use during the Byzantine era in around 324 AD and wasn’t used again until 1948. It is used in these latter times by some to promote the idea that the Jews today have no right to their God-given homeland. However, many use it as it has become the common name for the Holy Land. I don’t like to use the word much because there are no original Philistines from the time of the Canaanites living in the Holy Land today, and the original intent of the word was antisemitic. However, I will use it on occasion for understanding and clarity purposes. The Conflict Is Mainly Between Muslim Arabs and Jews Now, this discussion is not about all Arabs and is not intended to be anti-Arab. I have a number of Arab friends and have met many Arab people while in the Holy Land who are wonderful folks. God loves all people and wants them to come to the saving knowledge of salvation through Jesus Christ, who proved to be divine and fulfilled countless prophecies proving this. Both the Jews and Arabs need Jesus Christ, along with all of us. He is the only hope for peace and salvation. Every person is equal and created in the image of God. I also want to say that I feel deep compassion for the innocent people caught up in war. Wars are ugly, destructive, and sad. What Is the Conflict About? The basic conflict is over who has the right to exist in the Holy Land. The Muslim Arabs claim they are the rightful owners of all the Holy Land and want no state of Israel at all, and Israel says they have a right to exist in their homeland. What Is the Root Cause of the Conflict? To really understand this conflict, we must go back in time to around 4,000 years ago to the time of Abraham and his two sons, Ishmael and Isaac. From the descendants of these two brothers comes the conflict that has gone on for the last 4,000 years. Who Has the Right to the Holy Land? God should have the last word on this issue, as He is the Creator and owner of everything. Let’s see what God says. To do this, let’s look at the Abrahamic Covenant God made with Abraham regarding the land of Israel as found in the Bible. The Abrahamic Covenant consists of three promises God established with Abraham. 1. A Land 2. A Nation or People 3. A Lineage – Through the lineage of Isaac would come Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. The Abrahamic Covenant The Abrahamic Covenant is given numerous times in Genesis chapters 12-17 and continually reaffirmed throughout both the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. You will notice that the Bible uses the name Abram before it is later changed to Abraham, which means father of many nations. God promises a land and a people: Genesis 13:14-17 The Lord said to Abram, after Lot had separated from him, “Lift up your eyes and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward, 15 for all the land that you see I will give to you and to your offspring forever . 16 I will make your offspring as the dust of the earth, so that if one can count the dust of the earth, your offspring also can be counted. 17 Arise, walk throug h the length and the breadth of the land, for I will give it to you.” God promises Abraham a son: Genesis 15:18 On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying, “To your offspring I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the river Euphrates. After waiting a long time without Abraham and Sarah having a child, Sarah tries to fulfill this promise through her handmaid, Hagar. The birth of Ishmael: Genesis16:11-12 After Hagar gave birth to Ishmael, there arose bitterness between Sarah and Hagar. Then God describes the kind of person Ishmael would be. “Behold, you [Hagar] are pregnant and shall bear a son. You shall call his name Ishmael, because the Lord has listened to your affliction. 12 He shall be a wild donkey of a man, his hand against everyone and everyone’s hand against him, and he shall dwell over against all his kinsmen.” What do we see here? 1. The bitterness between Sarah and Hagar begins the conflict we see today. Later, this bitterness would include Ishmael and Isaac. 2. Ishmael will be a wild donkey of a man and will be against everyone and everyone against him. We certainly see this throughout history. The fulfillment of the Abrahamic Covenant would come through Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah, not through Ishmael. Genesis 17:15-22: And God said to Abraham, “As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. 16 I will bless her, and moreover, I will give you a son by her. I will bless her, and she shall become nations; kings of peoples shall come from her.” 17 Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed and said to himself, “Shall a child be born to a man who is a hundred years old? Shall Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?” 18 And Abraham said to God, “Oh that Ishmael might live before you!” 19 God said, “No, but Sarah your wife shall bear you a son, and you shall call his name Isaac. I will establish my covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his offspring after him. 20 As for Ishmael, I have heard you; behold, I have blessed him and will make him fruitful and multiply him greatly. He shall father twelve princes, and I will make him into a great nation. 21 But I will establish my covenant with Isaac, whom Sarah shall bear to you at this time next year.” 22 When he had finished talking with him, God went up from Abraham. What do we see here? 1. The Abrahamic Covenant, an everlasting covenant, would be through Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah. God’s covenant would not be through Ishmael. 2. Ishmael would be the father of a great multitude, which are the Arab people. 3. Through the Abrahamic Covenant, fulfilled in Isaac, would come Jesus Christ, the prophesied Savior. Galatians 3:13-14, 16: Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us—for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”— 14 in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham would come to the Gentiles , so that we would receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. 16 Now the promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed . He does not say, “And to seeds,” as one would in referring to many, but rather as in referring to one, “And to your seed,” that is, Christ. What do we see here? 1. The genealogies of the Bible, which oftentimes we think are boring, are so important. They prove that Jesus Christ fulfills the lineage aspect of the Abrahamic Covenant that dates back to around 4,000 years. 2. P rophecy is what sets the Bible apart from any other writing. It contains very specific, detailed prophecies. So, in summary, the Abrahamic Covenant, which is the major storyline of the Bible, includes three major aspects: 1. A Land through Abraham’s son, Isaac, and his offspring, which today is known as the Holy Land. 2. A Nation or people through Abraham’s son, Isaac, and his offspring, which today are called the Jews or Israelis. 3. A Lineage – Through the lineage of Isaac would come Christ, the Savior of the world. The Role of Islam in the Conflict The religion of Islam, which came into being in around 610 AD, completely denies the Bible’s storyline and radically changes it. Muslims believe that the angel Gabriel appeared to Mohamad and gave him a number of revelations from around 610-632 AD. The Quran and Muslim theology believe the following: 1. The Abrahamic Covenant was intended for Ishmael and his offspring, not Isaac and his offspring. 2. The Holy Land is for Ishmael and his offspring, not Isaac and his offspring. 3. The promise of a nation or people is through Ishmael and his offspring, not Isaac and his offspring. 4. Jesus Christ is not the Savior but just a prophet, and Mohamad is greater than Jesus and is the last prophet. 5. I t denies the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. 6. It believes the Bible is corrupted and that the Quran is the true revelation from God. Note: This Muslim belief cannot be true because the Dead Sea Scrolls, written around 100 BC, 700 years before Mohamad, verify that the Old Testament we have today is the same as what was written in the Dead Sea Scrolls. Also, Islam does more than just claim the Bible has been corrupted. It denies about 95% of the Bible is even true. For example, the New Testament's main theme is that salvation is through Jesus Christ and how to live and serve Him as a result. Islam denies all this. So, saying the Bible has been corrupted is not an accurate statement. The truth is that Islam rejects virtually all of the Bible and what it teaches. 6. Mohamad is the main example of how we should live. This even includes marrying children, as Mohamad married a 6-year-old girl when he was 51 and then consummated the marriage (had sex with her) when she was 10 years old. Marrying children is extremely common among Muslims. The Bible’s Claim About Islam According to the Bible, Islam is completely opposite to what the Bible teaches and is an antichrist religion. This explains why they hate Christians and Jews so much. The Jews believe in the Old Testament, and Christians believe in both the Old and New Testaments. Will the coming Antichrist be a Muslim? Many believe that the Antichrist will be a Muslim. This makes sense as Islam theology believes in a coming world leader called Mahdi. He will make a peace treaty for seven years, rule from the temple in Jerusalem, intend to kill all Jews and Christians and force all people to worship Allah. This Mahdi is exactly what the Bible describes as the Antichrist. Also, there is no other religion that is so against Christians and Jews like Islam. Additionally, Muslims believe Jesus will return to earth from heaven. But in their version of Jesus, he returns as a Muslim and will tell all the Christians that what the Bible says about him is wrong. He will destroy Christianity and demand that everyone convert to Islam and set up Islam as the one world faith. As you can see, Islam is anti-Bible and totally changes what the Bible teaches about the Abrahamic Covenant, which includes a land, a people, and a lineage. And most importantly, it teaches that Jesus was not who the Bible claims He is. Jesus warned about this when He was on earth. In Matthew 24:3-5, when Jesus was talking about the end times it says: “Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” 4 And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceives you. 5 For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. What Islam teaches is the very thing Jesus warned believers to be on the lookout for and not to be deceived by it. So, at the root of the conflict we see playing out on the world stage right now is a spiritual conflict that began thousands of years ago and continues to this day. This conflict was experienced and prophesied in Psalm 83: Do not keep silent, O God! Do not hold Your peace, And do not be still, O God! 2 For behold, Your enemies make a tumult; And those who hate You have lifted up their head. 3 They have taken crafty counsel against Your people, And consulted together against Your sheltered ones. 4 They have said, “Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation, That the name of Israel may be remembered no more.” 5 For they have consulted together with one consent; They form a confederacy against You: 6 The tents of Edom and the Ishmaelites; Moab and the Hagrites; 7 Gebal, Ammon, and Amalek; Philistia with the inhabitants of Tyre; 8 Assyria also has joined with them; They have helped the children of Lot. Selah Islamic World Conquest Through Jihad Explains the Conflicts in Israel The theology of Musli ms is to conquer the world for Allah and institute Muslim rule over the entire world. This rule is also known as Sharia Law. After this is done, they say, then peace will finally come to the world. This is why, since the inception of Islam, Muslims have been engaged in conquering land for Allah. This can be clearly seen in its nearly 1500-year-old history. Therefore, Islam is a violent faith that conquers lands and peoples for Allah by whatever means necessary, as taught in the Quran. We can see this in the following quotes and teachings of Islam. 1. World conquest and Jihad is taught in the Quran and Islamic theology. Quran 8:60: And prepare against them all the power you can muster, and all the cavalry you can mobilize , to thereby Allah’s enemies and your enemies. By using terrorism, governments and people yield to Muslims because of fear. They see the horrifying acts of terrorism and don’t want to make the devoted Muslims angry so they won’t be terrorized. Quran 8:39: Fight them until there is no more persecution, and religion becomes exclusively for Allah. But if they desist—Allah is Seeing of what they do. Quran 47:4: When you encounter those who disbelieve, strike at their necks. Then, when you have routed them, bind them firmly. Then, either release them by grace, or by ransom, until war lays down its burdens. Had Allah willed, He could have defeated them Himself, but He thus tests some of you by means of others. As for those who are killed in the way of Allah, He will not let their deeds go to waste. Quran 9:14: Fight them. Allah will punish them at your hands, and humiliate them, and help you against them , and heal the hearts of a believing people. Quran 9:29: Fight those who do not believe in Allah. The theology of Islam promotes the raping and sexual slavery of women if it’s done in connection with Jihad. That’s why the men are generally killed, and the women taken into slavery. 2. Jihad groups, like Hamas, use as part of their warfare, placing their rockets and military operations behind women, children, schools, hospitals, mosques, and so forth. This way, when these places are targeted and destroyed, they can cry out that horrific abuses have been done to their innocent places and people. 3. According to the current leader of the Palestinian Liberation Organization, Mahmoud Abbas, no Jews would be allowed to live in the land of Israel unless they converted to Muslim if a State of Palestine was created. This is completely opposite to what the state of Israel allows. Israel has many Arab citizens, has Arabs in their government leadership, and allows for complete freedom of religion. 4. According to a Muslim statement, Muslims should not submit to any form of government that is not Muslim, and no non-Muslim government has the right to rule Muslims. And if they do, Muslims have the duty to dislodge non-Muslim governments from power by any means possible. 5. Under Muslim-run countries, there is no separation of church and state. The government rules as a theocracy for Allah. This is also known as Sharia Law. 6. When Muslims conquer countries, they persecute and pressure non-Muslims to convert, or life will become unbearable for them, even to the point of execution. 7. They also destroy all religious sites like churches, synagogues, and so forth. They do this to show dominance and conquest. This is why they built the Dome of the Rock exactly over where the temple once stood on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. 8. In Islamic Jihad, it is okay to lie to defeat non-Muslims. This is partly what happened with the recent Hamas invasion of Israel at the time of this filming in 2023, where they killed around 1,400 people and kidnapped around 220 people. They told Israel they wanted peace. Therefore, Israel let their guard down and were deceived. 9. It is also commonly promoted that Islam is a peaceful religion. This is done to deceive the ignorant. History and Muslim theology clearly state that Islam’s purpose is to conquer the world for Allah through Jihad, which is war by all means necessary. 10. There are also terrorism and death sentences in Islam for those who leave Islam or convert to another religion. This includes honor killings, imprisonment, and persecution within Muslim-run countries. I have personal Arabic friends living in Israel who have left Islam and are under threat from family members and other Muslims who want to kill them. 11. Many Arabs and Arab Muslims just want to live in peace and live their lives. However, the devoted Islamic Jihadists are the ones causing most of the trouble. That’s why when peace agreements are made between Israel and Arabs, the Jihadists increase their terrorism. This was clearly evidenced by the OSLO agreement that President Bill Clinton oversaw. The peaceful Muslims don’t do or say anything contrary to the Jihadists out of fear for their lives. So, it’s the devoted Jihadists who control most of the Arab countries. Again, the goal of the devoted Jihadists is to conquer the world for Allah. 12. The devoted Jihadists reject peace because, in their view, peace is losing ground and yielding power. According to them, it stops the progress of conquering the world for Allah. 13. The Islamic Resistance Movement, also known as Hamas, is a Palestinian Islamist militant group founded in 1987. The group’s primary objective is to establish an independent Islamic state in all the Holy Land. To accomplish their purpose, they want to eliminate Israel from the Holy Land. Hamas is known for its armed resistance against Israel and has been designated as a terrorist organization by many countries. 14. The group’s charter calls for the destruction of Israel and the establishment of an Islamic society in what they call “historic Palestine.” Hamas has been governing more than two million Arabs in the Gaza Strip since 2007. 15. In summary, the Quran, Muslim theology, Mohamad’s life, and Muslim history all call for Jihad to punish and fight for Allah in the conquest of the world. Quran 9:14: Fight them. Allah will punish them at your hands, and humiliate them, and help you against them , and heal the hearts of a believing people. This is what the Bible says about Islamic Jihad. John 16:2-3: They will ban you from the synagogue, yet an hour is coming for everyone who kills you to think that he is offering a service to God . 3 These things they will do because they have not known the Father nor Me. Is Israel Occupying the Holy Land Unjustly ? Let’s look at a brief history of the Holy Land. 1. The Holy Land was promised to Abraham and his descendants by God and first inhabited by Abraham in around 2000 BC. This promise would come through Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah. 2. Later, God commanded the Israelites to drive out the Canaanites from the Holy Land because of their extreme wickedness. This happened in around 1406 BC when the Israelites entered the Promised Land. 3. The nation of Israel became the world’s dominant power under the kingships of King David and King Solomon in around 1000 BC. It was a vast empire. 4. Because Israel disobeyed God in many ways, He allowed foreign countries to conquer and subdue them. Many Jews were exiled. The first conquest happened in 722 BC by the Assyrians and 586 BC by the Babylonians. However, there always remained a Jewish presence in the Holy Land, and Jews returned from exile back to Israel. 5. Over the next 2,500 years, until 1948, the land of Israel would be ruled and occupied by the Persians, Greeks, Romans, Mameluke Muslims, Crusaders, Ottoman Muslims, and the British. However, there always remained a Jewish presence in the Holy Land during all this time. 6. After Israel’s rejection of Christ, their Messiah, God would judge them severely, as prophesied by Jesus. This resulted in the destruction of Israel and Jerusalem in 70 and 132 AD. 7. However, God had a plan and purpose for Israel and prophesied He would regather them into a nation again in the last days. This was fulfilled in 1948. 8. In 1917, the Ottoman Empire fell because of World War I and the League of Nations entrusted the British with overseeing the Holy Land. This included all of the country of Jordan today, as well as all of Israel. 9. At this time, the Ottomans, by formal cession, gave the Holy Land to the League of Nations, who, by international law, gave it to Great Britain, known as the British Mandate, to facilitate a homeland and nation for Israel. 10. After much fighting and tension between Britain, the Jews, and the Arabs, Britain handed the Holy Land over to the UN (United Nations) to facilitate the conflict. 11. In November of 1947, the UN voted to recognize Israel as a state, and the British Mandate would end on May 15, 1948. 12. On May 15, 1948, after Israel was recognized as a state by the UN and the British Mandate ended, Iraq, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria invaded Israel. Israel was victorious and won the war. 13. Egypt ruled the Gaza Strip, and Jordan ruled the West Bank from 1948-1967. 14. After the Six-Day War in 1967, when Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan were planning an attack on Israel in their attempt to take full possession of Israel, Israel launched a preemptive strike and won the battle. They took possession of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. 15. In 2005, Israel gave the Gaza Strip away to Arab leadership in exchange for peace. They also gave the Sinai Peninsula away to the Egyptians in exchange for peace as well. Therefore, Israel has not occupied the Gaza Strip for many years now. It has been under Arab control since 2005 and under Islamic Hamas leadership since 2007. Hamas receives billions of dollars in aid each year to better the country. Unfortunately, they spend most of it on terrorism and their own personal wealth instead of on building a better country for the people living there. 16. In addition to Israel giving full control to Arab leadership in the Gaza Strip, there are many areas of the Holy Land where Arabs have full control. 17. Most Arabs living in Israeli-controlled areas are very happy as the standard of living is much higher. The Arab-controlled areas, and especially the Gaza Strip, are where the standard of living is very low. 18. Today, there are around 9 million Jews and 2.1 million Arabs living in Israel. Many of the Arabs vote, serve in the military, hold office, are parliament and supreme court members, university professors, and doctors. They are very happy, peaceful, and supportive of the state of Israel. 19. Israel has accepted every two-state solution in the Holy Land, but Arab leadership has rejected every proposal. The Arab leadership wants Israel removed entirely from the Holy Land. This is their stated goal. Therefore, Arab leadership does not want peace but the elimination of the state of Israel. 20. It would be good to mention that there have been wars since the beginning of time. Kingdoms have risen and fallen. If Israel is wrongly occupying the land, then should the Muslims give back all the land they conquered over 1500 years and possess today? For that matter, should every country over the entire history of the world return conquered land? And if so, how far back do we go? War is just a reality of this fallen world, and it’s unrealistic to return all land to its original occupiers. And if we use history as the measure of the right to occupy land, then Israel has more rights to the land because they conquered it in 1406 BC. The Muslim Arabs didn’t conquer it until around 631 AD, then lost it later. 21. In all of the history of the Holy Land, there has never been a Palestinian State. In fact, as mentioned earlier, the term Palestinian fell out of use after the Byzantine conquest of Israel in around 324 AD and wasn’t used again until around 1948. 22. The main reason Israel is now against a two-state solution is that if they give the West Bank to Arab leadership, they will have the same issue they face today with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. From the West Bank, rockets could then reach every part of Israel, and their existence would be threatened. And with the stated intent of Muslim Arab leadership to totally eliminate the Jews, this would be a dangerous reality. Israel Becoming a Nation Fulfills Bibl e Prophecy In Ezekiel chapter 37 is a vision Ezekiel received about a valley of dry bones. These bones represent the nation of Israel and how God would regather them into their homeland in the last days. This was fulfilled in 1948 when Israel was recognized by the UN and the International Community as being its own country. Ezekiel 37:11-14: Then He said to me, “Son of man, these bones are the entire house of Israel; behold, they say, ‘Our bones are dried up and our hope has perished. We are completely cut off.’ 12 Therefore prophesy and say to them, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “Behold, I am going to open your graves and cause you to come up out of your graves, My people; and I will bring you into the land of Israel. 13 Then you will know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves and caused you to come up out of your graves, My people. 14 And I will put My Spirit within you and you will come to life, and I will place you on your own land . Then you will know that I, the Lord, have spoken and done it,” declares the Lord.’” This amazing prophecy has been fulfilled and lets us know that the Bible is God’s word and true, as only God knows the future. We must realize that the creation of Israel as a state is God’s doing. It fulfills His master plan for the nation of Israel. God is the Lord and owner of everything, so we must realize it is His will for the nation of Israel to exist. Nothing will change His plans. Therefore, the fact that Israel is a state is ultimately by God’s sovereign work and plan, not people’s. Faith Lesson 1. The Quran and Islam theology promote Jihad to conquer the world for Allah and force all to convert to Islam so it is the one world religion. When this happens, according to Muslims, then peace will come to the entire world. 2. The main source of the conflicts moving forward will come from Islamic-run countries. Their goal is to conquer the world for Allah by whatever means necessary. This includes every kind of terror imaginable. Therefore, they will be the main players in events moving forward. 3. It’s very logical and probable that the Antichrist will be a Muslim. As we have seen, in Muslim theology, a prophesied future Muslim leader will rule from the Temple Mount over the entire world for seven years. 4. Now, while the Islamic-run countries who will be against Israel in the last days think they are fighting against Israel, they are really fighting against God almighty. This is a war no one can win. 5. There will be a growing hatred against Israel and Christians in these last days. This can even be seen today in 2023, as the UN, with overwhelming support, called for Israel to stop its military campaign to defend itself by taking out Hamas in the Gaza Strip. I wonder what each of these countries would do if they had Hamas launching endless rockets into their countries and killing thousands and kidnapping hundreds of its citizens. I’m sure they would defend themselves. 6 . God has a plan for Israel, and He will be the one who defends them supernaturally. God will fulfill this major prophecy as He has fulfilled every other one. You can count on that. Zechariah 12:1-5: The oracle of the word of the Lord concerning Israel: Thus declares the Lord, who stretched out the heavens and founded the earth and formed the spirit of man within him: 2 “Behold, I am about to make Jerusalem a cup of staggering to all the surrounding peoples . The siege of Jerusalem will also be against Judah. 3 On that day I will make Jerusalem a heavy stone for all the peoples. All who lift it will surely hurt themselves. And all the nations of the earth will gather against it . 4 On that day, declares the Lord, I will strike every horse with panic, and its rider with madness. But for the sake of the house of Judah I will keep my eyes open, when I strike every horse of the peoples with blindness. 5 Then the clans of Judah shall say to themselves, ‘The inhabitants of Jerusalem have strength through the Lord of hosts, their God.’ 7 . God loves both the Jews and Muslims, and for that matter, all people and desires that everyone comes to salvation through Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 3:9: The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish , but that all should reach repentance. 8. As we see these end times events unfolding before our eyes, we need to realize that God is in control and working out everything according to His good purposes. Therefore, we should be at peace, trusting in God, a nd certain we are right with God and ready for His return.

See what Jerusalem looked like shortly after the time of Jesus. Understand the city layout like never before! This is a must-see tour to understand ancient Jerusalem from around 66 AD. Jerusalem Model Tour Photo Gallery Jerusalem Model Tour Introduction Welcome to the Model of Jerusalem at the Israel Museum. 1. It's located a couple of miles (km) west of Old City Jerusalem. 2. It's right beside the Shrine of the Book Museum, where many of the Dead Sea Scrolls are located. 3. This model will provide you with an exceptional understanding of what Jerusalem was like shortly after the time of Jesus. 4. We're going to explore and learn all about the city. 5. When we're done with this site, you'll understand Jerusalem and its layout shortly after the time of Jesus like the back of your hand. 6. We like to bring our tour groups here at the beginning of our time in Jerusalem so that they'll understand everything about Jerusalem and the surrounding area. 7. It's a must-see site to get the most out of your visit to Jerusalem. 8. Are you ready to explore and experience this site? Let's go! Location The Jerusalem Model is located at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem. The museum has several sections, and the model is located right beside the Shrine of the Book section. Historical Background 1. The Holyland Model of Jerusalem, also known as the Model of Jerusalem at the end of the Second Temple period, is a 1:50 scale model of Jerusalem from around 66 AD. 2. It covers an area of about 1,000 square meters and recreates the city at the height of its glory before the Jewish revolt against the Romans. 3. It was designed by Michael Avi-Yonah and moved from its original location at the Holyland Hotel in Bayit Vegan, Jerusalem, to its new site at the Israel Museum in June 2006. 4. The model was built from 1962 to 1966. At this time, almost the entire area it represents was under Jordanian rule and, therefore, off-limits for Israeli archaeologists and visitors. Thus, its layout was based mainly on historians and the Bible. 5. The model is not entirely accurate, as many discoveries have been made since it was built in 1966. 6. However, it still gives us a fantastic example and layout of what Jerusalem looked like shortly after the time of Jesus. Sites of Interest View of Old City Jerusalem Temple & Temple Mount Layout The outer courts of the Temple Mount were called the courts of the Gentiles. All non-Jews, unless they converted to Judaism, were allowed in this area but not in the inner courts of the Temple. Next, we have the Beautiful Gate. It was the gate leading into the Women's Courtyard. It was here that Peter and John healed the lame man as found in Acts 3. In each corner of the Women's Court were chamber rooms. We have the Chamber of Wood, Chamber of the Nazarites, Chamber of Lepers, and Chamber of Oils. Moving toward the temple was the Nicanor Gate. It led into the Inner Courtyard. Here was the Altar and Bronze Laver. From the Inner Court, you would enter the Holy Place, and then, beyond the curtain, the High Priest, once a year on the Day of Atonement, also called Yom Kippur, would enter the Holy of Holies. On the outer edges of the southern end of the Temple Mount Platform was the Royal Stoa. This is where we believe the area was where Pentecost took place. Antonia Fortress City of David Southern Stairs Robinson's Arch Wilson's Arch Pool of Siloam Pilgrims' Road Western Hill Expansion by Hezekiah Hezekiah's Broad Wall Herod's Palace Complex Jesus' Route to the Cross Via Dolorosa Golgotha Gennath Gate Walls of Jerusalem, Time of Jesus Walls of Jerusalem in 44 AD Pools of Bethesda Damascus Gate Lions' Gate Stephen's Gate 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. Since the time it was first captured by King David, until now, it has been a place of extreme blessing and punishment. When the Israelites obeyed God, they experienced supernatural blessings, protection, and miracles, and became a voice from God to minister to the surrounding nations. 3. However, when they disobeyed God, they experienced punishment, a lack of protection, and judgment, and were a terrible example to minister to the surrounding nations. What about us? Do we want God's blessings in our lives or be under his hand of punishment and judgment? 4. It's estimated that Jerusalem has been destroyed and rebuilt around 40 times. It was destroyed as a result of God's judgment for disobedience, and rebuilt due to His blessings as a result of obedience. What about us? When we disobey God, our lives are destroyed. However, when we obey, our lives are rebuilt and become testimonies of God's work and blessing. If we are wise, we'll seek the Lord and obey Him.

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 $1,350 by either credit card, PayPal, or check. The payment is set up for single and double payments. Just select the one that applies to you. If paying by credit card or PayPal, a 4% fee is added to your total amount due to fees charged by credit cards and PayPal. 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. Please refresh your browser before paying for latest button updates. Single Person Payment $1,350 Double Person Payment $2,700 If paying by check, please send your check to the following address: Holy Land Site (make check payable to this name, please) 6945 Burnett St. SE, Salem, OR, 97317-5202