See all the sites and discoveries of Magdala by the Sea of Galilee. Learn about Mary Magdalene, one of Christ's most devoted followers. See how her life was drastically changed by Christ. Synagogue, stone with grooves (used for reading the scrolls in the synagogue), rare stone replica of the temple in Jerusalem, mosaics in the synagogue, scroll storage room, marketplace, fish market area, residential area, Mikvahs, harbor, Byzantine Monastery, Duc In Altum (Latin for "Put out into the deep") Magdala Photo Gallery Magdala Introduction Welcome to the town of Magdala. Many significant events from the Bible happened here. These are the highlights. 1. It was the largest city around the Sea of Galilee, so Jesus would have preached here regularly. 2. It has one of the most well-preserved synagogues in Israel. Magdala was the hometown of Mary Magdalene, from whom Christ cast out seven demons. 3. Mary became a devoted follower of Jesus and was the first one Christ appeared to after His resurrection. 4. Mary was likely a wealthy widow, as she followed Christ everywhere and financially supported the ministry of Jesus. 5. A strong case could be made that Mary was one of Christ’s most devoted and loyal followers. 6. It's a great place to put your feet in the Sea of Galilee. Location 1. Magdala, also known as Migdal and Magadan, is located on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee. 2. It was located on the Via Maris (an International Highway linking Africa with Asia and Europe). 3. A massive tower foundation that may account for the city's name was discovered here . Both Magdala in Aramaic and Migdal in Hebrew mean tower. Historical Background 1. Magdala was one of the largest towns on the lake at the time of Jesus. Josephus reports that Magdala had a population of 40,000 people and a fleet of 230 boats. Excavations have uncovered the remains of a sprawling Roman city with mansions, paved streets, and a thermal bath complex. 2. History of the churches at Magdala. Around 350 AD, a Byzantine church was built on the site believed to be the location of Mary Magdalene’s house. The Byzantine church was destroyed around 640 AD. It was rebuilt by the Crusaders around 1150 AD. It was converted into a stable when the Crusaders were expelled from the Holy Land around 1291 AD. 3. Excavations first revealed this buried seaport city in the 1960s. Later, more of Magdala was discovered in 2009. 4. It’s believed a flash flood covered it sometime in the latter part of the 1st Century, as no coins or artifacts were found dating later than 67 AD. 5. It was a fishing village with one of the largest fish markets in northern Galilee. 6. It has one of Israel's oldest, most well-preserved synagogues. The synagogue was in use during Jesus' time, and He would have certainly preached here regularly. 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. 7. On one occasion, Jesus came to this area after feeding 4,000 people on the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee. 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). 8. It has a rare stone replica of the temple in Jerusalem with detailed carvings showing different aspects of the temple. 9. Magdala was the hometown of the famous Jewish historian Josephus. 10. It was the hometown of Mary Magdalene, from whom Christ cast out seven demons. 11. It was the largest Jewish city around the Sea of Galilee. 12. The area around Magdala is called "Migdal," the Hebrew name for Magdala. 13. Magdala became a center of rebellion against Rome and a fortified base for rebels during the first Jewish revolt that began in AD 66. 14. In AD 67-68, three Roman legions commanded by Vespasian reached Magdala and surrounded the city. After its defeat, many of the rebels tried to escape by boat acros s Galilee with disastrous results. The Romans engaged them in a sea battle and killed so many that the water in the Sea of Galilee turned red with their blood. Another 1,200 were executed in nearby Tiberias. Of the remaining Magdala citizens, 6,000 were sent to build a canal in Greece, and 30,000 were sold as slaves. Places of Interest 1. Synagogue 2. Beth Midrash (teaching area in the synagogue) 3. Stone with grooves (used for reading the scrolls in the synagogue) 4. A rare stone replica of the temple in Jerusalem in the synagogue. A copy of it is now placed outside the synagogue in a glass case. Many symbols can be found carved into it. Westside (side facing seating area): Menorah Two pillars on each side represent the pillars at the entrance to the Holy of Holies. Jars likely represent storage for oil for the Menorah. Top of stone: Two trees represent the Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil in the Garden of Eden. Rosette represents the curtain to the Holy of Holies. Northside & Southside: Arches represent the entrance and exit to the temple in Jerusalem. Herodian Lamp, unique to Jerusalem. Eastside: Wheels with an explosion under them represent the Chariot of Fire, in which Elijah was taken to heaven. The Torah was read from this stone on Saturdays (Sabbath). 5. Well-preserved mosaics in the synagogue. 6. Scroll storage room in the synagogue. 7. Marketplace 8. Fishmarket area Aqueduct 9. Residential area The width of the streets in biblical times was measured by the width of two loaded donkeys passing by one another. 10. Mikvahs 11. Byzantine Monastery 12. Duc In Altum (Latin for "Put out into the deep") is a spiritual center in Magdala where all can worship. It has a unique Galilean boat as an altar and a beautiful view of the Sea of Galilee behind it. The boat is made out of cedar from Lebanon, in honor of the temple Solomon built with cedar from Lebanon as well. This center was built in honor of Mary Magdalene. One of its purposes is to honor and support women today. The Encounter Chapel, located on the lower level of Duc In Altum, is part of Magdala´s archaeological treasure. The floor is that of the original first-century marketplace of the Magdala port. The woman represented in this chapel was seeking healing and found it when she touched Jesus' hem. What a miraculous and life-changing encounter! Today, people can stand on the stones of the marketplace where Jesus walked and have a personal encounter as they experience Christ's historical and spiritual presence. 13. Byzantine Church Located beside the Duc In Altum center are the ruins of a Byzantine church built around 350 AD. The foundations, mosaic floors, and architectural fragments of the church are preserved and can be seen today. 14. Harbor and boat dock area by the seashore. Magdala (Mary Magdalene) in the Bible 1. Jesus preached in Magdala regularly. 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 Jesus's resurrection 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. Mary also undoubtedly served Christ alongside the apostles for the rest of her life. Faith Lesson from Magdala and Mary Magdalene 1. Christ cast out seven 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 also support Jesus’ ministries? 4. Mary never lost her first love for Christ. Have we lost our first love?

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.

Tour Mount Nebo & all the sites of interest. It's the place where Moses viewed the Promised Land and died. Learn why Moses was prohibited from entering the Promised Land. Mount Nebo & Moses Overview Mt. Nebo & Moses Overview Mount Nebo is in the country of Jordan today. However, it was originally part of the Promised Land. It was conquered by the Israelites and then possessed by 2 1/2 tribes of Israel (Rueben, Gad, and 1/2 of Manassah). Location 1. Mount Nebo is a high mountain in Moab where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death. It rises more than 4,000 feet or 1,200 meters above the Dead Sea. 2. It is located on the east side of the Jordan River, opposite Jericho. 3. This site is on the highest place of the mountains in this area. It fits the biblical description of being on the peak of a mountain opposite Jericho. 4. Arc haeology, history, eyewitness accounts, and the Bible all support this site as the authentic place where Moses reached the end of his ministry. 5. There is no reason to dispute this site as the authentic place where Moses looked over the Promised Land. It's quite sobering to be in the very footsteps of Moses and ponder this place and site. Historical Background 1. The word "Nebo " was a reference to the Mesopotamian god, Nabu . From this false god, world leaders would attach it to their name. For example, Nebuchadnezzar did this. It would be like saying, "god Nebuchadnezzar." Nebuchadrezzar was king of Babylonia from approximately 605 BC until approximately 562 BC and is mentioned around 90 times in the Bible, most of which is in the book of Daniel. In biblical history, Nebuchadnezzar is most famous for conquering Judah and the destruction of Judah and Jerusalem in 586 BC. 2. M ount Nebo has a long history of religious significance because it's believed to be where Moses stood to view the Promised Land before his death. 3. According to the Book of Deuteronomy, Moses died on Mount Nebo and was buried in Moab. 4. Sometime before 300 AD, a structure was built here to venerate this site. Its date seems unknown at this time. 5 . In the 4th century AD, a sanctuary mentioned by the pilgrim nun Egeria was built on Mount Nebo to honor Moses. This was certainly built upon the site of an even older structure. The church was finished by 394 AD and had three east apses flanked by funerary chapels on the north and south sides. 6. In the 6th century, the church was enlarged and transformed into a basilica with a sacristy and new baptistery (whose surviving floor mosaics date from c.530 AD). Soon the church was the heart of a large monastery and pilgrimage center that would thrive for nearly six centuries. The basilica still stands on Mount Nebo today and contains a fascinating collection of Byzantine mosaics. 7. The site was abandoned by 1564 and remained abandoned and neglected for several centuries. The Franciscans bought the site in 1932 and were responsible for excavating most of the church and monastery's ruins and reconstructing much of the basilica. During this period, a protective shelter was installed over the archaeological remains to protect them. Today, Mount Nebo is an active Franciscan monastery and the headquarters of the Franciscan Archaeological Institute. Sites of Interest Bianchi Sculpture The first site on the path to the Moses Memorial Church is a rock sculpture by Vincenzo Bianchi, commemorating the visit of Pope John Paul II to Mount Nebo, in the year 2000. Pope John Paul II visited the Mount Nebo in holy land, and during his visit to the Moses Memorial Church he also planted an olive tree. Mount Nebo Siyagha Memorial of Moses Stone Just past the Bianchi Scupture Stone is a large rock commemorating Moses. Abu Badd Rolling Sto ne This rolling stone was used as a fortified door of a Byzantine monastery in the old village of Faisaliyah, once known as Kufr Abu Badd. Some say this stone may be from the Tomb of Jesus. It stands today‬ as a memorial to ‪Moses, marking where it's thought Moses stood to look at the “Promised Land.” Moses Memorial Church A church was first constructed in the second half of the 4th century to commemorate the place where Moses died. The church design follows a typical basilica pattern. It was enlarged in the late fifth century AD and rebuilt in 597 AD. It has a large number of mosaics that date back to 530 AD. The mosaics have been well preserved and portray images of wildlife and hunting, a common pastime in the Byzantine era. The church is first mentioned in an account of a pilgrimage made by a lady name d Aetheria in 394 AD. Six tombs have been found hollowed from the natural rock beneath the mosaic-covered floor of the church. In 1989 a new shelter consisting of a complete basilica was built over the ancient church. The Ancient Baptistery On the left side of the Memorial Church of Moses is the excavated Baptistery, complete with the most spectacular mosaics ever excavated. These magnificent mosaics are dated to August 531, thanks to an inscription in Greek. It also lists the three workers on this project and the Bishop when it was built. The Bishop listed was Elias. Theotokos Chapel This chapel was dedicated to Mary, mother of Jesus, and was added about 604 CE at the time of Bishop Leontius. It's located next to the exit door and was added in the 7th century, where three monastery rooms previously stood. Its apse has a mosaic of a square object that may be a vessel for the Eucharist. The floor of the chapel is paved with mosaics of plants and flowers. Diakonikon Baptistery The Diakonikon Baptistery inside the rebuilt basilica houses several remains of antique mosaics. Narthex This marks the entrance to the old church structure. The Brazen Serpent Monument The Brazen Serpent is a sculpture situated on Mount Nebo. It has become so popula r that it is now recognized as the symbol of Mount Nebo. It was created by Italian artist Giovanni Fantoni and is symbolic of the bronze serpent created by Moses in the wilderness (Numbers 21:4-9) and the cross upon which Jesus was crucified (John 3:14). A glimpse of the serpent protected one from the deadly plague God sent. Memorial Viewpoint A small sign at the viewpoint has lines pointing to some of the major landmarks visible from Mount Nebo, and if the day is clear, you can see all the way to Jerusalem itself. Ancient Monastery On the highest se ction of this site, the complete remains of an ancient Byzantine church and the original monastery can be seen. These were found in the excavation of 1933. The walls of this ancient monastery can be seen as you exit and go outside. Caves on Mount Nebo According to extra-biblical legend, the prophet Jeremiah hid the ark in a cave on Mount Nebo and said that this "place shall remain unknown until God gathers his people together again and shows his mercy" (2 Maccabees 2:7). Museum The Mount Nebo Interpretation Center is a small, single-room museum at this site. Inside are several reconstructions of mosaics, a Roman milestone from the area, and a number of smaller archaeological finds from the surrounding areas. Mt. Nebo & Mo ses in the Bible 1. Mt. Nebo is where the ministry of Moses ended; he looked at the Promised Land from a distance and died. Deuteronomy 32:48-52: Now the Lord spoke to Moses that very same day, saying, 49 “Go up to this mountain of the Abarim, Mount Nebo , which is in the land of Moab opposite Jericho , and look at the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the sons of Israel as a possession. 50 Then you are to die on the mountain where you ascend, and be gathered to your people, as Aaron your brother died on Mount Hor and was gathered to his people, 51 because you broke faith with Me in the midst of the sons of Israel at the waters of Meribah-kadesh, in the wilderness of Zin, because you did not treat Me as holy in the midst of the sons of Israel. 52 For you will see the land at a distance but you will not go there, into the land which I am giving the sons of Israel.” Deuteronomy 34: 1-6: Moses ascended from the desert plain of Moab toward Mount Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, across from Jericho. There the Lord showed him the entire land, from Gilgal as far as Dan, 2 all of Naphtali, the territories of Ephraim and Manasseh, and the entire territory of Judah all the way to out over the sea, 3 including the Negev, the Arabah, the valley of Jericho, and the city of the palm trees as far as Zoar. 4 Then the Lord told him: “This is the land that I promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob by an oath when I said, ‘I’ll give it to your descendants.’ I’ll let you see it with your eyes, but you won’t cross over there.” 5 So Moses, the servant of the Lord, died there in the land of Moab, just as the Lord had said. 6 He was buried in the valley opposite Beth Peor, in the land of Moab, but no one knows to this day where his burial place is. 2. The life of Moses can be divided into three 40-year periods. From birth to fleeing to the land of Midian in Arabia. During this period, he was raised in Egyptian royalty and prestige. He knew he was called to deliver God's people. During this period, he could be classified as a "somebody." After killing an Egyptian in his attempt to deliver God's people by his own power and might, he fled to Midian, where he married and became a shepherd. During this period, he could be classified as a "nobody." Then God supernaturally moved in his life, and by God's hand, he delivered God's people and led them to Mt. Nebo, just on the edge of the Promised Land. During this period, he could be classified as an "everybody." 3. We should realize that Moses was a godly man who was used greatly by God. He was very humble and sought to please God in everything. Deuteronomy 12:3: Now the man Moses was very humble , more than any person who was on the face of the earth. 4. However, Moses was forbidden to enter the Promised Land because of a major sin he committed. This sin is often overlooked, and God is viewed as harsh and overreacting. 5. What was this major sin, and why did God forbid Moses from entering the Promised Land after he had served God for 40 long, difficult years? There are two accounts where God provides water from a large rock supernaturally. Moses was forbidden to enter the Promised Land due to how he treated the rock, which represented God and Christ. 6. Account 1 Exodus17:1-7: Then all the congregation of the sons of Israel journeyed by stages from the wilderness of Sin, according to the command of the Lord, and camped at Rephidim, and there was no water for the people to drink. 2 So the people quarreled with Moses and said, “Give us water so that we may drink!” And Moses said to them, “Why do you quarrel with me? Why do you test the Lord?” 3 But the people were thirsty for water there; and they grumbled against Moses and said, “Why is it that you have you brought us up from Egypt, to kill us and our children and our livestock with thirst?” 4 So Moses cried out to the Lord, saying, “What am I to do with this people? A little more and they will stone me!” 5 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Pass before the people and take with you some of the elders of Israel; and take in your hand your staff with which you struck the Nile, and go. 6 Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock at Horeb; and you shall strike the rock , and water will come out of it, so that the people may drink.” And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel. 7 Then he named the place Massah and Meribah because of the quarrel of the sons of Israel, and because they tested the Lord, saying, “Is the Lord among us, or not?” In this first account of the rock and water, Moses obeys God fully, so God is pleased with Moses. 7. Account 2 Numbers 20:1-13: Then the sons of Israel, the whole congregation, came to the wilderness of Zin in the first month; and the people stayed at Kadesh. Now Miriam died there and was buried there. 2 There was no water for the congregation, and they assembled against Moses and Aaron. 3 Then the people argued with Moses and spoke, saying, “If only we had perished when our brothers perished before the Lord! 4 Why then have you brought the Lord’s assembly into this wilderness, for us and our livestock to die here? 5 Why did you make us come up from Egypt, to bring us into this wretched place? It is not a place of grain or figs or vines or pomegranates, nor is there water to drink!” 6 Then Moses and Aaron came in from the presence of the assembly to the entrance of the tent of meeting and fell on their faces. And the glory of the Lord appeared to them; 7 then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, 8 “Take the staff; and you and your brother Aaron assemble the congregation and speak to the rock before their eyes, that it shall yield its water. So you shall bring water for them out of the rock, and have the congregation and their livestock drink.” 9 So Moses took the staff from before the Lord, just as He had commanded him; 10 and Moses and Aaron summoned the assembly in front of the rock. And he said to them, “Listen now, you rebels; shall we bring water for you out of this rock ?” 11 Then Moses raised his hand and struck the rock twice with his staff ; and water came out abundantly, and the congregation and their livestock drank. In this account, God is displeased with Moses. 12 But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Since you did not trust in Me, to treat Me as holy in the sight of the sons of Israel, for that reason you shall not bring this assembly into the land which I have given them .” 13 Those were called the waters of Meribah, because the sons of Israel argued with the Lord, and He proved Himself holy among them. First, we must understand that the rock represents God and Christ. 1 Corinthians 10:1-4: For I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that our fathers were all under the cloud and they all passed through the sea; 2 and they all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea; 3 and they all ate the same spiritual food, 4 and all drank the same spiritual drink, for they were drinking from a spiritual rock which followed them; and the rock was Christ . 8. The three sins of Moses that prevented him from entering the Promised Land. 1. He did not trust God. “Since you d id not trust in Me" 2. He did not treat God as Holy in the sight of the Israelites. “Since you d id not trust in Me, to treat Me as holy in the sight of the sons of Israel" 3. He acted in anger toward the people and God. Psalm 106:32-33: They also provoked Him to wrath at the waters of Meribah, So that it went badly for Moses on their account. 33 Because they were rebellious against His Spirit, he spoke rashly with his lips. Faith Lesson 1. Moses was very humble and greatly used by God. What about us? Humility is not viewing ourselves as worthless but means that we rely upon God and not ourselves. 2. Moses was forbidden to enter the Promised Land because he did not trust in God the second time he was to bring water from the rock, which represented God and Christ. What about us? Do we follow God in the midst of storms and pressure? It's when we're under pressure and extreme stress that we reveal the depth of our spiritual maturity and faith. 3. Moses did not treat God as holy in the sight of the people he led. What about us? Do we treat God as holy and honor Him in our dealings with others? 4. Moses was angry with God's people and God. What about us? Do we deal harshly and angrily with others? 5. Even though God forgave Moses, there were still consequences for his sin. We see this also in the life of King David. What about us? Do we realize that God forgives us but doesn't always remove the consequences of our sins? Also, sometimes it takes time for the consequences to heal.

See the miracles and biblical events that happened at Cana! Christ turned water into wine here, an official's son was healed nearby, and Nathaniel, one of the apostles, was from Cana as well. Places of interest include Franciscan Wedding Church, Greek Orthodox Church, Nathanael Bartholomew Church, Cana Baptist Church. Cana was not far from Nazareth so Jesus came here often in His youth and during His ministry years. Many people today get married at the Wedding Church or renew their vows. Cana Overview Photo Gallery Places of Interest Cana Introduction Welcome to Cana and the Wedding Church of Cana. Many significant events from the Bible took place here. Here are some of the highlights. Jesus changed water into wine here, which was His first public miracle at the beginning of His ministry. Jesus healed an official’s son here. Nathanael, one of Christ's close followers and a close friend (or possibly a brother) of the Apostle Philip, was from Cana. The Apostle Philip led Nathanael, who was from Cana, to Christ. Location Cana is located in the northern part of Israel, in the Galilee region. It’s about 11 miles (17 km) southwest of the Sea of Galilee, about 4 miles (6.4 km) northeast of Nazareth, and about 22 miles (35 km) inland from the Mediterranean Sea. Historical Background 1. Cana’s actual location is uncertain, with at least three possible candidates. 2. However, at the Wedding Church, the Franciscans have relied on the testimony of early pilgrims, including Jerome, as being the authentic site. Therefore, they established themselves here in 1641. 3. The Franciscans also believe excavations beneath their present church, dating from the early 1900s, confirm the existence of an early place of worship. They think it’s possible that it was a Jewish-Christian synagogue. 4. Beneath the present Franciscan Wedding Church were found remains of dwellings dating back to the 1st century. An ancient basilica with three arch vaults in a cross-like form was also discovered. Additionally, in a crypt, a small stone cistern was found fitted into a flagstone floor. 5. Not far from the Wedding Church is the Greek Orthodox Church of the Marriage Feast. It possesses two large stone jars believed to be two of the original water pots used when Christ turned the water into wine. 6. The town also has a chapel dedicated to Bartholomew, whom some scholars identify with Nathanael of Cana. Places of Interest 1. Franciscan Wedding Church 2. Greek Orthodox Church 3. Nathanael Bartholomew Church 4. Cana Baptist Church Cana In the Bible 1. Jesus changed water into wine, which was His first public miracle at the beginning of His ministry. John 2:1-11: On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. 2 Jesus also was invited to the wedding with his disciples. 3 When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to him, "They have no wine." 4 And Jesus said to her, "Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come." 5 His mother said to the servants, "Do whatever he tells you." 6 Now there were six stone water jars there for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. 7 Jesus said to the servants, "Fill the jars with water." And they filled them up to the brim. 8 And he said to them, "Now draw some out and take it to the master of the feast." So they took it. 9 When the master of the feast tasted the water now become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom 10 and said to him, "Everyone serves the good wine first, and when people have drunk freely, then the poor wine. But you have kept the good wine until now." 11 This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested his glory. And his disciples believed in him. 2. Jesus also healed an official’s son here in Cana. John 4:46-54: So he came again to Cana in Galilee, where he had made the water wine. And at Capernaum, there was an official whose son was ill. 47 When this man heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went to him and asked him to come down and heal his son, for he was at the point of death. 48 So Jesus said to him, "Unless you see signs and wonders you will not believe." 49 The official said to him, "Sir, come down before my child dies." 50 Jesus said to him, "Go; your son will live." The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and went on his way. 51 As he was going down, his servants met him and told him that his son was recovering. 52 So he asked them the hour when he began to get better, and they said to him, "Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him." 53 The father knew that was the hour when Jesus had said to him, "Your son will live." And he himself believed, and all his household. 54 This was now the second sign that Jesus did when he had come from Judea to Galilee. 3. Nathanael, one of the close followers of Christ and close friend (or possibly a brother) of the Apostle Philip, was from Cana. John 21:2: Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. 4. The Apostle Philip led Nathanael, who was from Cana, to Christ. John 1:43-51: The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, "Follow me." 44 Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. 45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, "We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote--Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." 46 "Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?" Nathanael asked. "Come and see," said Philip. 47 When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, "Here is a true Israelite, in whom there is nothing false." "How do you know me?" 48 Nathanael asked. Jesus answered, "I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you." 49 Then Nathanael declared, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel." 50 Jesus said, "You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree. You shall see greater things than that." 51 He then added, "I tell you the truth, you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man. 5. In the Old Testament, wine was a symbol of blessing and prosperity. Christ turned water into wine to fulfill many Old Testament prophecies that proved He was the Messiah and promised blessing for those who received Him. Deuteronomy 8:7-8: For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land, a land of streams of water, of fountains and springs, flowing out in valleys and hills; 8 a land of wheat and barley, of vines , fig trees, and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey. Psalm 104:14–15: You cause the grass to grow for the livestock and plants for man to cultivate, that he may bring forth food from the earth 15 and wine to gladden the heart of man , oil to make his face shine and bread to strengthen man’s heart. Ecclesiastes 9:7: Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart , for God has already approved what you do. Amos 9:14: I will restore the fortunes of my people Israel, and they shall rebuild the ruined cities and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and drink their wine , and they shall make gardens and eat their fruit. Isaiah 55:1: Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Jeremiah 4:5: Again, you will plant vineyards on the hills of Samaria ; the planters will plant and will enjoy the fruit . Ezekiel 28:26: They will live on it securely; and they will build houses, plant vineyards , and live securely when I execute judgments upon all around them who despise them. Then they will know that I am the Lord their God. 6. The Deeper Meaning of Christ's First Miracle The miracle of turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana carries profound spiritual significance. The abundant and superior wine Jesus created symbolizes the New Covenant He was introducing to the world. The sheer quantity of the wine, filling large stone jars to the brim, signifies the overflowing grace available to every person through Him. Notably, the water was drawn from jars used for ceremonial purification, suggesting a transition from the old rituals of the law to the new life offered in Christ. This interpretation is reinforced throughout the New Testament. In the first three Gospels, Jesus compares his teachings to "new wine" that cannot be contained in old wineskins, illustrating that the old legalistic structures cannot confine His covenant of grace. The book of Hebrews further explains that the new covenant established by Jesus is superior to the old one. The old covenant was based on a system of laws, but the new covenant is founded on better promises, including the forgiveness of sins, direct access to God, and a transformation of the heart. The head waiter's comment at the wedding feast, "You have kept the good wine until now," echoes this theme of the new covenant's superiority. As Jesus' first public miracle, this event served as a powerful revelation to His disciples. It demonstrated that He was more than just a teacher; He was a worker of miracles with divine power. This act of transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary foreshadowed the profound change He would bring to the world and the lives of believers. Interestingly, the New Testament speaks of two significant marriage suppers. The first is the wedding at Cana, where Jesus attended as a guest. The second, described in the Book of Revelation, is the "marriage supper of the Lamb." At this future event, Jesus is not a guest but the bridegroom, and His bride is the Church. This illustrates the ultimate union between Christ and His followers, a central theme of Christian theology. Faith Lesson from Cana 1. Christ performed His first public miracle in Cana to authenticate and show that He was the promised Messiah. Do we believe Christ was God in the flesh and the true Messiah? 2. Christ honored the request of His mother to turn the water into wine. Do we honor our parents as Christ did and as God commands us to do? 3. Jesus also healed an official’s son here in Cana. Do we believe Christ can still do miracles today in our own lives? 4. If you could ask Christ for one miracle, what would it be? 5. In the same way Philip led Nathanael to Christ, do we lead others to Christ? 6. Christ turned water into wine to fulfill many Old Testament prophecies that proved He was the Messiah. Do we believe Christ is the Messiah, and have we placed our trust in Him as our Savior?

Ein Karem (Kerem) is a charming hillside village famed for its centuries-old holy sites. Among these include the Church of St. John the Baptist, containing a cave said to be John's birthplace, and Mary’s Spring, where the Virgin Mary is believed to have drunk. Four other holy sites are in Ein Karem as well such as Visitation Church, the Notre Dame de Sion convent, the Greek Orthodox St. John Convent, and the Al Moskovia Russian monastery (originally called the Gorny Monastery). Ein - Karem (Kerem) Photo Gallery Places of Interest Ein Karem ~ John the Baptist Introduction Welcome to Ein Karem. Many events from the Bible took place here. Here are some of the highlights. 1. Here is where John the Baptist's parents, Zechariah and Elizabeth, lived. 2. John the Baptist was born here. 3. Mary, the mother of Jesus, visited Elizabeth here, and the baby leaped within her womb when she saw Mary. There are three sites here that will be our focus. 1. Church of St. John the Baptist - Birthplace of John 2. Church of the Visitation - Place Mary visited Elizabeth 3. The Spring of Mary - Place Mary quenched her thirst before climbing the hill to visit Elizabeth. Location 1. Ein Karem (Kerem) is located about 4.5 miles (7 km) southwest of Jerusalem. 2. Ein (spring) Karem (vineyard), together meaning “Spring of the Vineyard,” has a Jewish and Christian history and is still a tranquil place of trees and vineyards. Historical Background 1. In the Old Testament, Ein Karem is referred to as “BeitaKerem or Beth-Haccerem,” as found in Jeremiah 6:1 and Nehemiah 3:14. The area was within the jurisdiction of the Tribe of Judah. 2. In the New Testament, Ein Karem is best known as the home of Zechariah and Elizabeth and the birthplace of John the Baptist. 3. It is considered one of the top tour destinations for Christian pilgrims. Two Homes of Zechariah and Elizabeth 1. The two main sites in Ein Karem are the Church of the Nativity of John the Baptist and the Visitation Church. It is believed that Zechariah and Elizabeth had two houses in Ein Karem. Zechariah was a priest and likely wealthy. Therefore, it is very possible he had two residences in Ein Karem. 2. Their usual residence was in the valley. However, a cooler summer house located high on a hillside allowed them to escape the heat and humidity during warmer months. The summer house is believed to be where the pregnant Elizabeth remained in seclusion for five months, as found in Luke 1:24. It’s also where Mary visited her. 3. John the Baptist was born in the house in the valley. It was also here that Zechariah finally regained his power of speech when he wrote on a writing tablet that the baby’s name was to be John. Church of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist 1. During excavations in the church, which has at its core the cave that Christian tradition identifies as the birthplace of John the Baptist, there have been discovered remains of two Byzantine chapels which mark the place where early Christians venerated this site as the home of Zechariah and Elizabeth, and the birthplace of John the Baptist. The Byzantine ruins include two chapels: the “Martyrs Chapel,” where the modern church is located, and another chapel under the southern side of the monastery. The Martyrs Chapel refers to the children killed by Herod in Matthew 2:16. An inscription in a mosaic panel reads, in Greek, “Hail martyrs of God.” Whom it refers to is unknown. 2. Two altars have also been discovered in this church. The high altar is dedicated to St John. To the right is Elizabeth’s altar. To the left are steps leading down to a natural grotto — identified as John’s birthplace and believed to be part of his parents’ home. Also found under this church are remains from the first century AD, including a flight of plastered steps recently identified as part of a typical Jewish ritual bath (mikveh) for purification. Some have linked the discovery to Zachariah. As a priest in the temple, he probably had to purify himself every day since his meals were often based on sacrifices brought by pilgrims. It is, therefore, possible that Zachariah had a mikveh in his own house. Therefore, the archaeological find is of major importance to substantiate the Christian tradition. 3. In the Crusader period (1099-1291), a church was built over the house believed to be the house of Zachariah. First mentioned by a Russian pilgrim, Daniel, in 1109, this church was one of the first to be built by the Crusaders. Church of the Visitation 1. The Virgin Mary’s visit to Elizabeth is depicted in a mosaic on the facade and is commemorated in a two-tiered church built on a slope of the hill south of Ein Karem. Several churches and monasteries were built during the Byzantine period. The Visitation Crusader's Church was built over one of them. 2. Later, the Crusaders rebuilt some of the ruined Byzantine churches. The upper floor of the visitation church shows remains of the Crusader’s church, especially on the south wing. 3. Antonio Barluzzi designed the modern church, which was completed in 1955. The artistically decorated Church of the Visitation is considered one of the most beautiful Gospel sites in the Holy Land. 4. This church is believed to be the site of Zechariah and Elizabeth’s summer house, where Mary visited her cousin. On the wall opposite the church, ceramic plaques reproduce Mary’s song of praise, as found in Luke 1:46-55. Mary's exultation is translated into 58 languages and can be found hanging on large plaques on the side of the church. 5. In the lower chapel, a vaulted passage leads to an old well. Ancient tradition suggests that a spring joyfully burst out of the rock here when Mary greeted Elizabeth. 6. A huge stone set in a niche is known as the Stone of Hiding . According to an ancient tradition, the stone opened to provide a hiding place for baby John during Herod’s Massacre of the Innocents — an event depicted in a painting on the wall. Mary’s Spring 1. In a valley south of the village is a fresh-water spring known as Mary’s Spring or the Fountain of the Virgin. Tradition states that Mary quenched her thirst from this spring before climbing the hill to meet Elizabeth. 2. The village of Ein Karem gets its name from this spring. Its meaning is derived from the Arabic “Ein” (spring) and Kerem (vineyard or olive grove). A small, abandoned mosque is built over the spring, another reminder that this was once an Arab village. 3. Southwest of Ein Karem, off Route 386, a Greek Melkite monastery and a Franciscan convent mark the Desert of St. John, a site where John the Baptist is believed to have lived in seclusion. Places of Interest Ein Karem is home to five churches and monasteries: 1. The Church of St. John the Baptist 2. Visitation Church 3. Notre Dame de Sion Convent: It is operated by an order of nuns of the Zion sisters and has been converted to function as a guest house. 4. Greek Orthodox St. John Convent: This serves the Greek-Orthodox community of Ein Karem. The ancient church (built in 1894) was restored in 1975. 5. Al Moskovia Russian Monastery (initially called the Gorny Monastery). Construction on this five-orange-domed structure started in 1905 and was completed in 2005. Later, its domes were painted gold. 6. Additionally, a focal point is the famous Mary’s Well, where it’s believed that Mary, miraculously pregnant with Jesus, sat and drank from its spring waters while sitting with Elizabeth, who was miraculously pregnant with John at the same time. John the Baptist in the Bible 1. John was the prophesied forerunner of Christ, whose purpose was to prepare the way of the Lord. Malachi 3:1: “Behold, I am sending My messenger, and he will clear a way before Me. And the Lord, whom you are seeking, will suddenly come to His temple; and the messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight, behold, He is coming,” says the Lord of armies. Malachi 4:5–6: “Behold, I am going to send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and terrible day of the Lord. 6 He will turn the hearts of the fathers back to their children and the hearts of the children to their fathers, so that I will not come and strike the land with complete destruction.” 2. He had a supernatural birth and calling. Luke 1:11–17: Now an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the altar of incense. 12 Zechariah was troubled when he saw the angel, and fear gripped him. 13 But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall [l]name him John. 14 You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice over his birth. 15 For he will be great in the sight of the Lord; and he will drink no wine or liquor, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit while still in his mother’s womb. 16 And he will turn many of the sons of Israel back to the Lord their God. 17 And it is he who will go as a forerunner before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of fathers back to their children, and the disobedient to the attitude of the righteous, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” 3. It was in Ein Karem that Mary magnified the Lord. The spiritual depth of Mary, a young virgin, is quite remarkable. Luke 1:46–56: And Mary said: “My soul exalts the Lord, 47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. 48 For He has had regard for the humble state of His bond-servant; for behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed. 49 For the Mighty One has done great things for me; and holy is His name. 50 And His mercy is to generation after generation toward those who fear Him. 51 He has done mighty deeds with His arm; He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their hearts. 52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones, and has exalted those who were humble. 53 He has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty-handed. 54 He has given help to His servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy, 55 Just as He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and his descendants forever.” 56 Mary stayed with her about three months, and then returned to her home. 4. His main message was a message of repentance. Matt. 3:1–12: Now in those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying, 2 “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” 3 For this is the one referred to by Isaiah the prophet when he said, “The voice of one calling out in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make His paths straight!’” 4 Now John himself had a garment of camel’s hair and a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 At that time, Jerusalem was going out to him, and all Judea and all the region around the Jordan; 6 and they were being baptized by him in the Jordan River, as they confessed their sins. 7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, “You offspring of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Therefore produce fruit consistent with repentance; 9 and do not assume that you can say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father’; for I tell you that God is able, from these stones, to raise up children for Abraham. 10 And the axe is already laid at the root of the trees; therefore, every tree that does not bear good fruit is being cut down and thrown into the fire. 11 “As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 12 His winnowing fork is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clear His threshing floor; and He will gather His wheat into the barn, but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” 5. He had the privilege of baptizing Jesus. Matt. 3:13–17: Then Jesus arrived from Galilee at the Jordan, coming to John to be baptized by him. 14 But John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I have the need to be baptized by You, and yet You are coming to me?” 15 But Jesus, answering, said to him, “Allow it at this time; for in this way it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him. 16 After He was baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and settling on Him, 17 and behold, a voice from the heavens said, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” 6. He was beheaded for his message against the sin of Herod the Tetrarch. Matt. 14:1–12: At that time Herod the tetrarch heard the news about Jesus, 2 and said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist; he himself has been raised from the dead, and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him.” 3 For when Herod had John arrested, he bound him and put him in prison because of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip. 4 For John had been saying to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” 5 Although Herod wanted to put him to death, he feared the crowd, because they regarded John as a prophet. 6 But when Herod’s birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod, 7 so much that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked. 8 And after being prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me the head of John the Baptist here on a platter.” 9 And although he was grieved, the king commanded it to be given because of his oaths and his dinner guests. 10 He sent word and had John beheaded in the prison. 11 And his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, and she brought it to her mother. 12 John’s disciples came and took away the body and buried it; and they went and reported to Jesus. Faith Lesson from Ein Karem 1. John's preaching was a strong message of repentance and judgment, the same message Christ preached. What about us? When we share the gospel, do we focus on the need for repentance, or do we skip over it? 2. The depth of Mary's knowledge of God and faith was remarkable. What about us? How deep is our knowledge and faith? Are we committed to growing and deepening our knowledge and faith or are we apathetic and lazy about it? 3. John died for preaching against Herod the Tetrarch's sin. What about us? Do we have strong convictions and stand against sin, or are we passive and silent?

See why the southern part of the Temple Mount is the most likely place where Pentecost happened. Sites of interest related to Pentecost: Pool of Siloam, Pilgrim's Road (Herodian St.) from the Pool of Siloam to the Southern Stairs and Robinson's Arch Stairway, Mikvehs by the Southern Stairs, City of David, Jerusalem in the time of Christ, time of prayer at the temple. Pentecost happened 50 days after Passover. Temple Mount & Pentecost Photo Gallery Places of Interest Temple Mount & Pentecost Location 1. The Temple Mount is located on the eastern side of Old City Jerusalem 2. It occupies 1/6 of the current city. 3. It is 35 acres (14 hectares) in size, the equivalent of 35 football fields. Historical Background 1. The Temple Mount has played a “center stage” role for much of Israel’s history and has functioned as the center of God’s dwelling place and ministry on this earth. 2. It will play a key part during the Millennial Reign of Christ on the earth as well. 3. God has chosen to focus His presence and attention there like a laser beam from heaven like no other place. 4. First temple: the temple Solomon built. 5. Second temple: the temple Zerubbabel oversaw after the deportation and return of the Jews. 6. King Herod’s temple: it would seem like this would be called the third temple, but because the second temple wasn’t destroyed by enemies, but that Herod built over it a new temple and then removed the old one inside, it is still referred to as the second temple. Places of Interest 1. Temple Mount 2. Royal Stoa 3. Dome of the Rock. 4. Solomon's Portico 5. Western Wall 6. Eastern Gate 7. Southern Stairs 8. Antonia Fortress 9. Upper Room 10. Pools of Bethesda 11. Pool of Siloam 12. Pilgrim's Road 13. Mikvahs by the Southern Stairs 14. Original Altar Location 15. City of David The Temple Mount and Pentecost in the Bible 1. Pentecost means 50. 2. Fifty days after Passover, the Jewish feast of Pentecost (Shavuot) was celebrated, which was primarily a thanksgiving for the firstfruits of the wheat harvest, but it was later associated with a remembrance of the Law given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. At this feast, the Jews were to give God the firstfruits of their wheat harvest. 3. Pentecost also marks 50 days from the time the Israelites left Egypt and arrived at Mount Sinai, where God gave them the 10 Commandments and the Law. 4. Pentecost happened 50 days after Passover. There were 40 days from the resurrection of Christ to His ascension, and then 10 days from Christ’s ascension to Pentecost, for a total of 50 days. 5. Interestingly, the Jewish nation was born at Mount Sinai 50 days after leaving Egypt, and the Church was born at Pentecost 50 days after Christ’s resurrection. Why Pentecost Most Likely Happened on the Temple Mount Many believe Pentecost occurred in or around the Upper Room. However, the best evidence suggests that it most likely occurred on the Temple Mount, near the Royal Stoa. 1. What does the Bible say? Acts 2:1–6: When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house [structure] where they were sitting. 3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. 5Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. 6 And at this sound the multitude came together , and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. 2. Scripture says the coming of the Holy Spirit filled a house. It doesn’t say or mention anything about the Upper Room. 3. What does "house" mean in Hebrew? The Hebrew word for "house" in Acts 2:2 is "Har Ha Bait," which means "the mountain of THE HOUSE," or "the dwelling place of God." This meaning would support the idea that Pentecost most likely took place on the Temple Mount. While Acts 2:2 states that the sound of wind filled the whole “house,” Jesus refers to the Temple with the term “house” four times (John 2:16, 17; Matthew 21:13; Mark 11:17; Luke 19:46). In Acts 5:21, Luke refers to a prison as a “house.” Additionally, the Temple is often referred to as a house in the Old Testament. John 2:17: The Zeal for your house will consume me. Matthew 21:12-13: And Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all those who were selling and buying on the temple grounds, and He overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who were selling doves. 13 And He said to them, “It is written: ‘My house will be called a house of prayer’; but you are making it a den of robbers.” House can also refer to just a covered area. The Royal Stoa fits this description. On the southern end of the Temple Mount, just above the Southern Stairs, was the Royal Stoa . It was a massive public meeting place with a large, roofed area. It aligns with what the Bible says about the location of Pentecost. 4. Three thousand were baptized after hearing Peter's message. Acts 2:41: So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls. For 3,000 to be saved, a crowd of at least 30,000, up to 100,000 would likely have assembled. The Jewish historian Josephus, along with others, estimates that hundreds of thousands gathered in Jerusalem during the holy feasts. This large multitude could not fit in or around the Upper Room. 5. The Upper Room could only accommodate about 150 people. The massive crowd that gathered and the 3,000 baptized could not have fit in the Upper Room or the surrounding area. Peter addressed "All who dwelt in Jerusalem ." Acts 2:14: But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: “ Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem , let this be known to you, and give ear to my words. Peter addressed a multitude of people. Acts 2:6: And at this sound the multitude came together , and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. The Upper Room was in a densely populated residential area of Jerusalem. It had narrow streets and many buildings. A multitude of people couldn't gather in this area as the narrow streets and buildings would have made this virtually impossible. Due to the narrow streets and buildings around the Upper Room, Peter could have only preached to several hundred people at best. 6. There was no reason for a multitude of people to be in the residential area by the Upper Room. The Upper Room is a long way from the central part of Jerusalem. It was not in an area of public interest. The Temple Mount was the center of public activity, especially during the holy feasts. 7. There were many Mikvehs (baptismal pools) around the Temple Mount. There are approximately 75 mikvehs near the Temple Mount, along with the Pools of Bethesda and the Pool of Siloam, where those who were ritually clean could be baptized. There were no public mikvehs around the Upper Room area. The Upper Room is situated in the southwest corner of Jerusalem, approximately 0.51 miles (0.83 km) from the Temple Mount, a considerable distance away. Most likely, too far away for a large crowd to go to for baptisms, etc. 8. The coming of the Holy Spirit happened at nine in the morning, which was the time of morning prayers at the Temple. The disciples frequently visited the Temple during times of prayer. Acts 2:15: For these people are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour [9:00 am] of the day . Acts 3:1: Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. Therefore, the apostles and disciples were most likely on the Temple Mount when Pentecost happened. 9. The southern part of the Temple Mount would have been a natural place for Pentecost to occur, as it was the center of public activities in Jerusalem. The Southern Stairs and Robinson's Arch entrance were massive, serving as the main entrances to the Temple Mount. These entrances would be natural gathering places for people. 10. The Temple Mount and Royal Stoa area could easily have handled the large crowd of 30,000 to 100,000 gathered at Pentecost. At Passover, the Temple Mount was jammed with tens of thousands of pilgrims from fifteen different countries speaking multiple languages. The description in Acts chapter two clearly indicates that the miracle of Pentecost was witnessed by people who spoke various languages. This event could only have occurred on the Temple Mount, where pilgrims from different parts of the world had congregated for the feast. Crowds speaking multiple languages would not have gathered around a dining room in upper Jerusalem. The Royal Stoa would have exposed access, allowing for people in the building to be easily seen and heard from outside the colonnade. The apostles then were immediately accessible to thousands of Jews gathered for the festival in a massive public facility. 11. The Temple Mount platform was the only place in Jerusalem during the time of Pentecost that could have accommodated a multitude of 30,000 to 100,000 people. It was the size of 35 professional football fields, big enough to handle over 150,000 people. Therefore, the Temple Mount platform is the best candidate for where Pentecost happened, and most specifically, around the southern part of it by the Royal Stoa. The Message of Pentecost 1. Peter spoke boldly as the Holy Spirit enabled him. Acts 2:14-21: But Peter, taking his stand with the other eleven, raised his voice and declared to them: “Men of Judea and all you who live in Jerusalem, know this, and pay attention to my words. 15 For these people are not drunk, as you assume, since it is only the third hour of the day; 16 but this is what has been spoken through the prophet Joel: 17 ‘And it shall be in the last days,’ God says, ‘That I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind; and your sons and your daughters will prophesy, and your young men will see visions, and your old men will have dreams; 18 and even on My male and female servants, and they will prophesy. 19 And I will display wonders in the sky above and signs on the earth below, blood, fire, and vapor of smoke. 20 The sun will be turned into darkness and the moon into blood, before the great and glorious day of the Lord comes. 21 And it shall be that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’ 2. Peter's message was based on Old Testament prophecy. Acts 2:22-28: “Men of Israel, listen to these words: Jesus the Nazarene, a Man attested to you by God with miracles and wonders and signs which God performed through Him in your midst, just as you yourselves know— 23 this Man, delivered over by the predetermined plan and foreknowledge of God, you nailed to a cross by the hands of godless men and put Him to death. 24 But God raised Him from the dead, putting an end to the agony of death, since it was impossible for Him to be held in its power. 25 For David says of Him, ‘I saw the Lord continually before me, because He is at my right hand, so that I will not be shaken. 26 Therefore my heart was glad and my tongue was overjoyed; moreover my flesh also will live in hope; 27 For You will not abandon my soul to Hades, nor will You allow Your Holy One to undergo decay. 28 You have made known to me the ways of life; You will make me full of gladness with Your presence." 3. Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies concerning the promised Messiah. Acts 2:29-36: “Brothers, I may confidently say to you regarding the patriarch David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. 30 So because he was a prophet and knew that God had sworn to him with an oath to seat one of his descendants on his throne, 31 he looked ahead and spoke of the resurrection of the Christ, that He was neither abandoned to Hades, nor did His flesh suffer decay. 32 It is this Jesus whom God raised up, a fact to which we are all witnesses. 33 Therefore, since He has been exalted at the right hand of God, and has received the promise of the Holy Spirit from the Father, He has poured out this which you both see and hear. 34 For it was not David who ascended into heaven, but he himself says: ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand, 35 Until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet.”’ 36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know for certain that God has made Him both Lord and Christ—this Jesus whom you crucified.” 4. The response of many who heard this message. Acts 2:37-42: Now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what are we to do?” 38 Peter said to them, “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you and your children and for all who are far away, as many as the Lord our God will call to Himself.” 40 And with many other words he solemnly testified and kept on urging them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation!” 41 So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls. 42 They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Faith Lesson from Pentecost 1. Pentecost is a fulfillment of many Old Testament prophecies. 2. It’s incredible to see the many pictures in the Old Testament that are fulfilled in the New Testament. Christ, the New Testament Passover Lamb, fulfils the Old Testament Passover lamb. The Jewish nation was formally born at Mount Sinai on Pentecost. The Christian Church was also born at Pentecost. The Passover lamb was sacrificed on Passover afternoon at 3:00 pm. Christ died on the Cross as our sacrifice at 3:00 pm on Passover as well. 3. Do we understand how prophecy fits into validating God’s Word? 4. Do we understand the meta-narrative (God’s large master plan) of God’s story? 5. Do I see how God gave examples and pieces to His meta-narrative in the Old Testament and then fulfilled and amplified these examples in the New Testament? 6. Have I received the Holy Spirit as a result of trusting Christ as my Lord and Savior? 7. Have I been baptized?

This video series is unprecedented and unique in that as the Gospels of Jesus are being read, you will see the exact locations where the events in the Bible took place. This means that as the Bible is being read you will be able to see the exact places where it is taking place. Also, at the end of each chapter of the Gospels, a faith lesson will explain the big ideas of the chapter and apply them to your life. Great for Home Bible Studies, Sunday School Classes, Personal Bible Study, and more. Life & Ministry of Jesus Series This video series is unprecedented and unique. As the Gospels of Jesus are being read, you will see the exact locations where the events in the Bible took place. This means that as the Bible is being read you will be able to see the exact places where it is taking place. Also, at the end of each chapter of the Gospels, a faith lesson will explain the big ideas of the chapter and apply them to your life. Great for Home Bible Studies, Sunday School Classes, Personal Bible Study, and more. Life & Ministry of Jesus Series Intro Video Life & Ministry of Jesus Series ~ Gospel of Mark Videos are being added regularly to this project. Please check back soon for the latest uploads. Also, please consider subscribing to our YouTube Channel to receive notifications regarding the most recent uploads. Check Out Our Holy Land Site YouTube Channel

Tour and learn all about Bethany. It was the hometown of Jesus’ good friends, Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. It's the place where Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead and the home of Simon, the leper. It was the place where Mary anointed Jesus’ feet with perfume and where Jesus stayed overnight during His final week of earthly ministry, between His triumphal entry and His crucifixion. Bethany ~ Tomb of Lazarus Photo Gallery Places of Interest Bethany ~ Tomb of Lazarus Introduction Welcome to Bethany. Many events from the Bible took place here. Here are some of the highlights. 1. It's where Mary, Martha, and Lazarus lived. 2. Jesus taught Martha, Mary's sister, a major lesson about choosing priorities at Bethany . 3. Bethany is where Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. 4. Bethany was also where Simon the Leper lived, and an unnamed woman anointed the head of Jesus with expensive perfume. 5. Mary anointed Jesus' feet with expensive perfume in Bethany. This most likely happened in the house of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. 6. Jesus cursed a fig tree on His way to Bethany from the temple where He had been ministering. 7. The Triumphal Entry began close to Bethany. 8. When in Jerusalem, Jesus regularly stayed in Bethany. Most likely at the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. 9. The Gospel of Luke states that Jesus ascended back to heaven not far from here, as this area is part of the Mount of Olives. Location 1. Today, Bethany is located in the modern town of Al-Eizariya or Al-Azariya (Arabic for the place of Lazarus). 2. In 2002, the Israeli government built a separation wall between Jerusalem and Al-Azariya to control terrorism from East Jerusalem. Before this date, biblical Bethany was just a short drive or walk from the Mount of Olives. Today, you must go around this wall, which takes about one-half hour by car. 3. It was a village in Judea about two miles (3.2 km.) southeast of Jerusalem, which the Bible confirms: "Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, about two miles away " (John 11:18). 4. It was situated on the well-traveled road to Jericho. 5. Some believe Bethany was more like a modern subdivision of Jerusalem rather than an entire town. 6. In biblical times, the edges of Bethany reached the Mount of Olives and bordered Bethphage, a suburb of Jerusalem. 7. Some translate the name Bethany to mean “house of figs,” as there are many fig trees and palms in the area. On the other hand, others translate it as “house of misery,” believing that Bethany was a designated place for those with contagious diseases. Historical Background 1. Archaeological excavations between 1949 and 1953, directed by Sylvester J. Saller of the Franciscans, have unearthed evidence of Christian places of worship erected near the tomb. 2. Six layers of archaeology confirm this is the authentic site of the tomb of Lazarus and Bethany. Rock-cut tombs and the remains of houses, wine presses, cisterns, and silos were also discovered. 3. Pottery finds dating to the Persian and Hellenistic periods also provide evidence of this site's authenticity. 4. O ngoing excavations continue around the area of the House of Martha and Mary. Layers of Archaeology 1. Early Christians Venerated This Site Before any formal churches were built here, early Christians venerated this site as it was here Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, which caused many Jews and religious leaders to believe in Jesus. Virtually no churches were built in the Roman Empire from the time of Christ until 314 AD, when Constantine made Christianity legal. Nonetheless, Christians still venerated and protected the holy sites, including this one. Archeologists have established that the area was used as a cemetery in the 1st century AD, and tombs from this period were found a short distance north of the church. 2. First Church - 350 AD The Byzantines built the first church by Lazarus's tomb. Several eyewitnesses attest to its existence and saw it personally. Among them were the historians Eusebius of Caesarea, the Pilgrim of Bordeaux, and Jerome, who lived in Bethlehem. The first church measured 35 meters long and 19 meters wide. It consisted of a hall with three naves divided by columns and an atrium connecting it to the tomb of Lazarus. The first church had beautiful mosaics, many of which remain today. It was likely damaged by earthquakes in 447 and 551 AD. 3. Second Church - 650 AD A second church was built between 600 and 700 AD and survived intact until the Crusader era. The second church followed the same general plan as the first, but the apse was situated about 13 meters (43 ft) to the east to create a larger atrium. A chapel was built on the south side of the atrium. The pilgrim Arculf, who wrote in 680 AD about a large basilica and monastery, is an eyewitness to this building. 4. Third Church & Monastery - 1138 AD In 1138, King Fulk and Queen Melisende obtained the village of Bethany from the Latin patriarch in exchange for land near Hebron. The queen built a large Benedictine monster (convent) south of the tomb and church. Melisende had extensive repairs made to the 6th-century Byzantine church, which remained the focal point of pilgrimages. These buildings were destroyed in 1187 by the Muslims. 5. Fourth Church - 1200 AD Shortly after renovating the third church, Queen Melisende built a new church with three apses directly over the tomb of Lazarus. This new church was dedicated to Lazarus, and the older church was reconsecrated to Mary and Martha. Melisende also fortified the complex with a tower. 6. Mosque of Al-Uzair - 1384 By 1384, a simple mosque had been built on the site of the existing structures. In the 16th century, the Ottomans built the larger al-Uzair Mosque to serve the town's (now Muslim) inhabitants. They named it to honor the town's patron saint, Lazarus of Bethany. The construction utilized the surviving barrel vaulting of the former west church. Its courtyard is in the Byzantine church atrium. For 100 years after the mosque was constructed, Christians were invited to worship in it, but European church authorities frowned upon the practice, preferring Christians to remain separate. As access to the tomb became more difficult, the Franciscans were eventually permitted (between 1566 and 1575) to cut a new entrance into the tomb on the north side. At some point, the original entrance from the mosque was blocked. This entrance can still be seen in the east wall of the church's antechamber. Modern Church - 1955 In 1863, the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land gained title to a plot of ground close to the tomb of Lazarus. Other areas were acquired later. Between 1952 and 1955, a modern church dedicated to Lazarus was built on this property over the remnants of the former Byzantine and Crusader churches. This church's courtyard stands over the older churches' west end. Parts of the original mosaic floor are still visible here. The west wall of the courtyard contains the west facade of the 6th-century basilica and its three doorways. About twenty-five meters up a hill northwest of the church is the modern entrance to the Tomb of Lazarus. Greek Orthodox Church - 1965 At this time, a modern Greek Orthodox church was built just west of the Tomb. Its construction incorporates the north wall of the former medieval Benedictine chapel. Nearby the church are ruins belonging to the Orthodox Patriarchate, which are traditionally identified either as the House of Simon the Leper or Lazarus. Places of Interest 1. Tomb of Lazarus The Crusaders made major changes to the tomb. Originally, it was a three-bench tomb, with space for three bodies to be laid along the walls. Then, when the Crusaders built their church above it, they feared the weight of the building might cause the tomb to collapse. To strengthen it, they covered the inside walls with stonework for support. Because of that, the original burial benches are still there, but they are now hidden behind the added stone. The Crusaders also left a few small niches in the walls, likely for candles to light the tomb. The bench where Lazarus was probably laid was most likely the one just to the right of the crawl space as you enter. 2. House of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus 3. House of Simon the Leper 4. Ancient churches built over the Tomb of Lazarus 5. Bethany 6. Bethphage 7. Mt. of Olives 8. Old City Jerusalem 9. Old Jericho to Jerusalem Road Bethany I n the Bible 1. Bethany was the place where Jesus taught a major lesson to Martha, the sister of Mary. Luke 10:38-42: Now as they were traveling along, He entered a village [Bethany]; and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. 39 And she had a sister called Mary , who was also seated at the Lord’s feet, and was listening to His word. 40 But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do the serving by myself? Then tell her to help me.” 41 But the Lord answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; 42 but only one thing is necessary; for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” 2. Bethany is where Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. John 11:1-5: Now a certain man was sick: Lazarus of Bethany , the village of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 And it was the Mary who anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped His feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick. 3 So the sisters sent word to Him, saying, “Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick.” 4 But when Jesus heard this, He said, “This sickness is not meant for death, but is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified by it.” 5 (Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister, and Lazarus.) John 11:17-27: So when Jesus came, He found that he had already been in the tomb four days. 18 Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, about fifteen stadia away [2 miles, 3.2 km.]; 19 and many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary, to console them about their brother. 20 So then Martha, when she heard that Jesus was coming, went to meet Him, but Mary stayed in the house. 21 Martha then said to Jesus, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 Even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You.” 23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise from the dead.” 24 Martha said to Him, “I know that he will rise in the resurrection on the last day.” 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; the one who believes in Me will live, even if he dies, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?” 27 She said to Him, “Yes, Lord; I have come to believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, and He who comes into the world.” John 11:38-44: So Jesus, again being deeply moved within, came to the tomb. Now it was a cave, and a stone was lying against it. 39 Jesus said, “Remove the stone.” Martha, the sister of the deceased, said to Him, “Lord, by this time there will be a stench, for he has been dead four days.” 40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” 41 So they removed the stone. And Jesus raised His eyes, and said, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me. 42 But I knew that You always hear Me; nevertheless, because of the people standing around I said it, so that they may believe that You sent Me.” 43 And when He had said these things, He cried out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out !” 44 Out came the man who had died, bound hand and foot with wrappings, and his face was wrapped around with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go.” 3. Bethany is where Mary anointed the feet of Jesus with expensive perfume. This event most likely happened in the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. John 12:1-3: Therefore, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany where Lazarus was , whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2 So they made Him a dinner there, and Martha was serving; and Lazarus was one of those reclining at the table with Him. 3 Mary then took a pound of very expensive perfume of pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. 4. Bethany is also where Simon the Leper lived, whom it appears Jesus had healed. In Simon's home, a woman anointed Jesus' head with expensive perfume. Mark 14:3-9: While He was in Bethany at the home of Simon the Leper , He was reclining at the table, and a woman came with an alabaster vial of very expensive perfume of pure nard. She broke the vial and poured the perfume over His head. 4 But there were some indignantly remarking to one another, “Why has this perfume been wasted? 5 For this perfume could have been sold for over three hundred denarii, and the money given to the poor.” And they were scolding her. 6 But Jesus said, “Leave her alone! Why are you bothering her? She has done a good deed for Me. 7 For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good to them; but you do not always have Me. 8 She has done what she could; she has anointed My body beforehand for the burial. 9 Truly I say to you, wherever the gospel is preached in the entire world, what this woman has done will also be told in memory of her.” 5. Jesus cursed a fig tree on His way to Bethany from the temple where He had been ministering. Matthew 21:17-22: And He left them and went out of the city to Bethany , and spent the night there. 18 Now in the early morning, when He was returning to the city, He became hungry. 19 And seeing a lone fig tree by the road, He came to it and found nothing on it except leaves alone; and He said to it, “No longer shall there ever be any fruit from you.” And at once the fig tree withered. 20 Seeing this, the disciples were amazed and asked, “How did the fig tree wither all at once?” 21 And Jesus answered and said to them, “Truly I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and cast into the sea,’ it will happen. 22 And whatever you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive it all.” 6. The Triumphal Entry began close to Bethany. Luke 19:29: When He approached Bethphage and Bethany , near the mountain that is called Olivet, He sent two of the disciples, 30 saying, “Go into the village ahead of you; there, as you enter, you will find a colt tied, on which no one yet has ever sat; untie it and bring it here. 31 And if anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ you shall say this: ‘The Lord has need of it.’” 32 So those who were sent left and found it just as He had told them. 33 And as they were untying the colt, its owners said to them, “Why are you untying the colt?” 34 They said, “The Lord has need of it.” 35 And they brought it to Jesus, and they threw their cloaks on the colt and put Jesus on it. 36 Now as He was going, they were spreading their cloaks on the road. 37 And as soon as He was approaching, near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the miracles which they had seen, 38 shouting: “Blessed is the King, the One who comes in the name of the Lord; Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” 7. When in Jerusalem, Jesus regularly stayed in Bethany. Most likely at the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Mark 11:11: And Jesus entered Jerusalem and came into the temple area; and after looking around at everything, He left for Bethany with the twelve, since it was already late. 8. While Acts 1:9-12 says Jesus ascended back to heaven from the Mount of Olives, Luke states it happened around Bethany. There is no contradiction, as Bethany was considered part of the Mount of Olives. Luke 24:50-53: And He led them out as far as Bethany , and He lifted up His hands and blessed them. 51 While He was blessing them, He parted from them and was carried up into heaven. 52 And they, after worshiping Him, returned to Jerusalem with great joy, 53 and were continually in the temple praising God. Faith Lesson from Bethany 1. Martha was a busy person who worked hard but neglected spiritual devotion and eyes to see what was most important in life. What about us? Are we so busy that we neglect our devotion to Christ? 2. In Bethany, Christ raised Lazarus from the dead and claimed to be the resurrection and the life for those who believe in Him. What about us? Are we right with the Lord and have the hope that we will be resurrected to live with a new, glorified body with Christ for eternity in heaven? 3. Mary showed her love and devotion to Jesus by anointing Him with very expensive ointment and wiping His feet with her hair. What about us? How do we show our love and devotion to Jesus? 4. Jesus cursed a fig tree, and it died. He told us that if we have faith and don't doubt, we can move mountains. What about us? Do we have faith and believe God can do great things when we serve and trust Him? In what areas of my life do I lack faith and have fear?

Filmed in Israel on a Sea of Galilee boat ride! In-depth teaching of Jesus walking on water, calming the storm on the sea, Peter walking on water, feeding the 5,000, and more! See the mountain where Jesus prayed, where He fed the 5,000, Magada, Gennesaret, Tabgha, Capernaum, Bethsaida, Kursi, Sea of Galilee, and more. Matthew 14:22, Mark 6:45, John 6:16. Sites of interest include: Mount Arbel, Magdala, Gennesaret, Tabhga, Mount of Beatitudes, Capernaum, Bethsaida, Kirsi, Feeding the 5,000. Jesus Walks on Water, Calms the Sea Photo Gallery Places of Interest Jesus Walks on Water and Calms the Sea Introduction Welcome to a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. Two significant events from the Bible took place out on the water. Here are the highlights. 1. Jesus calms a storm on a boat ride from Capernaum to the country of the Gadarenes, where He healed two demon-possessed men. One of these men had a legion of demons in him whom Jesus cast into a herd of pigs, and they ran down a steep hill into the sea (Matthew 8:23-27). 2. The following account involves Jesus calming a storm and walking on the water. We'll focus on this account here (Matthew 14:22-36). Location 1. This miracle occurred in the middle of the widest part of the sea. John 6:19 suggests it was about 3–4 miles (5.5 km) from the eastern shore. The sea is about 8 miles (13 km) wide at its widest part, which would place them in the middle of the sea. 2. They were also far from land (Matt. 14:24). This means they were far from the northern part of the seashore as well. Historical Background 1. The disciples had just returned from an amazing time of preaching and healing throughout Israel (Christ had sent them out two by two). 2. Jesus took them to the eastern side of the sea, south of Bethsaida, to rest. However, instead of resting, a large crowd gathered, and Jesus taught them all day and then fed them. There were 5,000 men, not counting women and children, present, which means there were probably 15,000–20,000 people or more in total. Luke 9:10: On their return, the apostles told him all that they had done. And he took them and withdrew apart to a town called Bethsaida . 3. After Christ fed the multitude, they wanted to make Him King by force (John 6:15). However, what they had in mind was an earthly kingdom wherein the Romans would be overthrown, and Jesus would return them to their glory days. This was prophesied in Scripture, but Christ’s earthly kingdom would not be realized until His second coming. 4. The disciples were caught up in the frenzy of the crowd’s desire to make Jesus King, so He immediately sent them away by boat to the other side of the sea. 5. The disciples’ hearts were hard, and Scripture says they didn’t learn anything from the feeding of the 5,000 (Matt. 16:5–12). 6. After feeding the 5,000, Jesus went up on a mountain to pray. He likely prayed that His disciples would learn the lesson of faith He was about to teach them. This lesson would involve sending a storm and revealing His deity to them. 7. Jesus purposefully allowed them to reach a state of utter disaster, fear, and desperation so that what He was about to teach them would sink in deeply. 8. The narrative of Scripture would place the disciples sailing from the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee to the western shore. Places of Interest (Please See Maps Above) 1. Feeding of the 5,000 location. 2. The mountain upon which Jesus prayed. 3. Departure beach 4. Bethsaida 5. Capernaum 6. Place where Jesus walked on water. 7. Gennesaret 8. Sea of Galilee Jesus Walks on Water and Calms the Sea in the Bible 1. Immediately after feeding the 5,000, 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. 2. 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. 3. 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. 4. 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. 5. 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. 6. 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. 7. Jesus spoke to them. Matthew 14:27: But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, "Take heart; it is I [I AM, in Greek]. Do not be afraid." 8. 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?" 9. 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." Mark 6:52: And he got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased. And they were utterly astounded. This miracle was a major turning point in the lives of the disciples. The deity of Jesus was now deeply embedded in their hearts and lives, and they would never be the same. 10. Jesus and the disciples miraculously arrive at the other side of the sea 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. 11. After already being exhausted and missing a night of sleep, they had more ministry awaiting them. Matthew 14:34–36: And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret. 35 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 Jesus Walking on Water and Calming the Sea 1. Jesus embedded in the lives of His disciples that He was God. Do we believe in the deity of Christ and that He was God in the flesh? 2. Like Peter and the disciples, are we of little faith sometimes? 3. Like the disciples, we are often surrounded by serious problems. Do we realize Jesus cares for us during our storms? 4. Like the disciples, we can often feel tired and alone in our trials and problems. Do we understand that we are not alone and that God is caring for us? 5. Peter walked on the water for a moment and then took his eyes off Jesus and focused on the storm. Therefore, he sank into the water. Do we understand that to navigate the storms in our lives, we must keep our eyes on Jesus despite the raging problems around us? 6. Jesus sent the storm to teach His disciples who He was and their need for faith in Him. Do we understand that Jesus also sends us storms to teach us the same truths? 7. Jesus and the disciples often had long days of exhausting ministry. Are we willing to do the same?

Bible Videos, books, teachings, Holy Land Tour Trips, maps, and more about why Israel is so unique and unlike any other country. Why Israel Is So Unique Israel – God’s Chosen Land Israel . . . Land of the Bible . . . Land of Faith . . . the Holy Land, revered throughout recorded history as the cradle of monotheistic religion. For a person of faith whose beliefs are rooted in the Bible, there is no place on earth like the Holy Land. In this narrow strip of land lies the source of religious belief of much of mankind. Here, amongst the barren hills and fertile plains, man’s spirit learned to soar and from here a new message went out to all the world: “. . . and many peoples shall come, and say, “Come, let us go up to the Mountain of the Lord, to the House of the God of Jacob; that He may teach us His ways and that we may walk in His paths. For out of Zion (Hill next to Jerusalem) will go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem (Isaiah 2:3,4). The unique factor about the Holy Land is its special location in the World. Situated as it is, straddling the divide between Africa and Asia, the area has almost always been a battleground. Wave after wave of conquerors poured into it, anxious to control the strategic trade routes linking the centers of the ancient world. It’s not by accident that it’s virtually in the center of the world. In God’s master plan of creation, He decided to place Israel exactly in the center of His creation. Located on a tiny land bridge between Africa and Asia, there is no other way to get between the two of them except through Israel. It’s located on the crossroads of the world. Whoever wanted to trade between the two continents, or control the known world, had to conquer and control Israel. For this reason, there have been more wars and events that have taken place in Israel than any other country on earth. God positioned Israel in its unique location in order to influence the world and be on “Center Stage” so all of creation would know that He alone is God. For nearly 2,000 years, Christian visitors from all over the world have come to the Holy Land, the land of their spiritual heritage. With Bible in hand, they have walked the places Jesus walked and prayed in the places He preached and prayed. For Christians, Israel is a place like no other. It provides them a one of a kind opportunity to experience the land of the Bible, to deepen their faith, and to be spiritually transformed for a lifetime.