Google interactive maps, video maps, printable maps, books, models, writings, teachings, and other maps and resources about the Holy Land. Jerusalem, Sea of Galilee, Negev, Dead Sea, Nazareth, Capernaum, Masada. Maps of the Biblical Sites Maps for Purchase Map of Israel Map of Jerusalem Satellite Poster of Israel In the Footsteps of Jesus Map Sea of Galilee Booklet & Map Via Dolorosa Booklet & Map Posters & Maps in General Maps for Viewing Map of the Holy Land During the Time of Christ Website with Many Maps of the Holy Land and Surrounding Areas Map of Abraham's Journey to the Holy Land Map of the Travel Locations of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph Travels of Moses and the Children of Israel Location of the 12 Tribes of Israel in the Holy Land Harmony of the 4 Gospels (Chronological timeline of events of the Life of Jesus) Biblical Sites for Christian Visitors Booklet Great Website for photos and info on the Holy Land

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?

This is the site early Christians venerated in the story of the Good Samaritan. It was proposed in the early Christian centuries as a place to commemorate this event and strengthen the faith of believers. Today, this place is called the Inn of the Good Samaritan. It has a museum with many mosaics and artifacts from other synagogues and discoveries. Inn of the Good Samaritan & Museum Photo Gallery Places of Interest Inn of the Good Samaritan Location 1. The Inn of the Good Samaritan is located about 8.5 miles (13.5 km.) east of Jerusalem on Hwy. 1 and about 6.5 (10.5 km.) west of Jericho. 2. The Inn is about halfway between Jerusalem and Jericho on an ancient road that linked traffic from the Jordan Valley to Jerusalem and the coastal towns of the Mediterranean Ocean. 3. The famous story of the Good Samaritan took place on this road. Historical Background 1. Interestingly, Jesus used real places and people in the story of the Good Samaritan, i.e., road, Jerusalem, Jericho, robbers, Samaritans, priests, Levites, and the Inn. Therefore, the possibility exists that the story was actually a real event that had happened. 2. The ancient road connecting the Jordan Valley to Jerusalem and beyond had an elevation difference of 3,400 ft. (1,036 m.). Jericho is at 800 ft. (244 m.) below sea level, and Jerusalem is at 2,600 ft. (792 m.) above sea level. 3. It was a dangerous road that was desolate in steep, curvy places with crooks, crannies, and caves where bandits and robbers could hide and get away easily in the desert. It also lacked police protection in many places. 4. It was about 15 miles (24 km.) between Jerusalem and Jericho. 5. Around 12,000 priests and Levites lived in Jericho who used this road whenever they were summoned to serve in the temple in Jerusalem. 6. The rocky desert terrain around the Inn of the Good Samaritan was notorious for robbers. The local name for the area is Ma‘ale Adummim, which means red rocks. It’s believed the name was derived from the limestone stained red by iron oxide, but it’s also believed its name is due to the amount of blood that was spilled here by bandits and robbers. 7. Jesus and His disciples would have used this road repeatedly as they traveled between Jerusalem and Jericho. 8. The Inn of the Good Samaritan Although it’s not certain that the inn Jesus mentioned in the story of the Good Samaritan was a real place, a site was proposed in the early Christian centuries as a place to commemorate this event. Today, it’s called the Inn of the Good Samaritan. The site was inhabited in the Hellenistic and Roman periods, and remains from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD were discovered during the excavations of the Inn. In the 6th century, a Byzantine church and monastery with pilgrim accommodations were erected on the site of what was probably some sort of travelers’ hostel well before the time of Jesus. Later, the Crusaders built a fortress on a nearby hill to protect pilgrims against robbers. The remains of the monastery later became an Ottoman Inn. In the 1800s, the Ottomans built a rectangular structure over the ruins of the southern wall of the Crusader Fortress. The current museum at this site was opened in 2009. Places of Interest 1. Byzantine Church 2. Museum (has many mosaics and artifacts from around Israel) 3. Cave 1, 2 4. Crusader Fortress 5. Hwy. 1 6. Jericho 7. Jerusalem 8. Ancient Road from Jericho to Jerusalem 9. Wadi Qelt The Story of the Good Samaritan in the Bible 1. A lawyer (student of Scripture) tested Jesus regarding what a person had to do to receive eternal life. Luke 10:25-28: And a lawyer stood up and put Him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” And He said to him, “What is written in the Law? How does it read to you?” And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind [Deut. 6:5]; and your neighbor as yourself [Lev. 19:18].” 2. Attempting to justify himself, the lawyer asked a follow-up question about what the term “neighbor” meant. Luke 10:29: And He said to him, “You have answered correctly; do this and you will live.” But wishing to justify himself, he said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 3. To illustrate who our neighbor is, Jesus told the story of the Good Samaritan. Luke 10:30-34: Jesus replied and said, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among robbers, and they stripped him and beat him, and went away leaving him half dead. And by chance a priest was going down on that road, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. Likewise, a Levite also, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan who was on a journey, came upon him; and when he saw him, he felt compassion, and came to him and bandaged up his wounds, pouring oil and wine on them; and he put him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn and took care of him. The priests were the spiritual leaders and oversaw the temple. The Levites were servants in the temple. Samaritans were unfaithful Jews who intermarried with foreign unbelievers and established their own religion. The Samaritans were despised and rejected by the Jews and considered unclean. The Samaritans, likewise, despised the Jews and had few dealings with them. Any traveler from Samaria would have been regarded as an alien in Judea. Luke 10:35-37: On the next day, he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper and said, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I return, I will repay you.’ Which of these three do you think proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell into the robbers’ hands?” And he said, “The one who showed mercy toward him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do the same .” A denarius was about a day’s wage. Today, it would be around $200 dollars for an average worker. The Samaritan gave the innkeeper two denarii for a total of $400 dollars. The Good Samaritan was willing to spend even more money on the hurt man, meaning that what he had already given was just a start. Faith Lesson from the Good Samaritan 1. Our neighbor is anyone with a genuine need whom we find in our path. 2. The wounded man the Samaritan helped was not a family member, a friend, or an acquaintance; he was a total stranger. 3. The Samaritan spent a large sum of money to help heal the wounded man with no expectation or guarantee of being repaid. 4. It’s not what we see but what we do that makes us a neighbor. 5. Jesus emphasized that it’s not just what we believe that matters, but what we do that shows we are truly saved. 6. While we should help the wounded with physical needs, we should also help the wounded with their spiritual needs as well. The greatest need everyone has is salvation. Do we share our faith and give the greatest gift possible to those in need spiritually? 7. We should keep in mind that not every want or need others might have is legitimate. 8. God doesn’t want us to reward wrong motives and laziness. 2 Thessalonians 3:10-11: For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat , either. For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all , but acting like busybodies.

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?

The life of Samson is one of the most intriguing and difficult to understand. Learn all about the life and places of Samson in this clear and understandable video filmed right where it all took place. Sites of interest include Tel Beth-Shemesh, a large rock where the Israelites likely sacrificed the oxen who pulled the cart after receiving the Ark of the Covenant from the Philistines, Sorek Valley, Nahal Sorek Stream, Zorah, Samson's Tomb, Tel Timnah. Timnah: Life of Samson Overview Life of Samson Overview Welcome to the Holy Land and the biblical site of Timnah, which is located at this site called, “Tel Batash .” Let’s see the Bible come to life as we look at some of the key events from the Scriptures that took place here. Location Timnah is located about halfway between Joppa (a coastal town on the Mediterranean Sea) and Jerusalem. The Tel is about 10 acres in size. It is in a rich agricultural area alongside the Nahal Sorek stream. Historical Background 1. Timnah is mentioned 10 times in the Bible. Today, biblical Timnah is called Tel Batash, which is very little visited and undeveloped. It's hard to access as it's located in the midst of farm fields. The life of Samson takes place in the period of the Judges, which is about 1400 BC. 2. Samson is a very interesting Bible figure that presents some significant challenges to understand. His life is a blend of God’s sovereignty and Samson’s human choices. Many decisions Samson made were sinful and foolish. However, despite his sinful and foolish choices, God still used him to accomplish His sovereign purposes. However, it appears Samson’s choices negatively affected what he could have accomplished for God had he been more obedient and wise. 3. Samson’s life seems to reveal a very immature believer who follows their sinful desires rather than walking in the Spirit and exemplifying wisdom and maturity. 4. To understand Samson, we have to understand something about the book of Judges. The period of the Judges takes place in a period of Israel’s history when they were a very spiritually immature people. Their two famous leaders, Moses and Joshua, had died, and now they were on their own. 5. A lot of weird and bizarre things happen in the book of Judges, and there’s one phrase repeatedly used, “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” 6. Samson is listed in Hebrews 11, the hall of fame faith chapter, as a person who had faith. 7. Samson had a supernatural birth and purpose. 8. Like Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, Hannah, and Elizabeth, the mother of Samson was barren and unable to have children. Sites of Interest 1. Tel Beth-Shemesh 2. Sorek Valley 3. Nahal Sorek Stream 4. Zorah - Samson's Tomb 5. Tel Timnah (Tel Batash) 6. M odern Beth-Shemesh Places of Interest at Timnah, Zorah, Lehi 1. Street 2. Residential home 3. Oil press 4. Observation tent 5. City gate 6. Nahal Sorek Stream 7. Samson’s tomb 8. Samson’s hometown 9. Place God provided water for Samson Timnah, Zorah, Lehi & Samson in the Bible 1. God visited Samson’s parents through an angel. Judges 13:2-5: There was a certain man of Zorah, of the family of the Danites, whose name was Manoah; and his wife was barren and had borne no children. Then the angel of the Lord appeared to the woman and said to her, “Behold now, you are barren and have borne no children, but you shall conceive and give birth to a son. Now, therefore , be careful not to drink wine or strong drink, nor eat any unclean thing. For behold, you shall conceive and give birth to a son, and no razor shall come upon his head, for the boy shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb; and he shall begin to deliver Israel from the hands of the Philistines.” 2. God ordered Samson to be consecrated by being a Nazirite from birth (meaning separated or dedicated). This was a unique vow, applicable during the Old Covenant of national Israel, whereby a non-Levite (Samson was a Danite) could dedicate his life to full-time service of God. This vow required that their hair not be cut, no alcoholic beverages were to be consumed, and no touching of anything dead was allowed (Judges 13:5; Num. 6). 3. God also provided Samson with unbelievable, superhuman strength to be used against the Philistines, providing Samson's vow of submission was faithfully kept. 4. When Samson is grown, he comes down here to Timnah from Zorah, seeking an occasion against the Philistines. Judges 14:1-4: Then Samson went down to Timnah and saw a woman in Timnah, one of the daughters of the Philistines. So he came back and told his father and mother, “I saw a woman in Timnah, one of the daughters of the Philistines; now, therefore , get her for me as a wife.” Then his father and his mother said to him, “Is there no woman among the daughters of your relatives, or among all our people, that you go to take a wife from the uncircumcised Philistines?” But Samson said to his father, “Get her for me, for she looks good to me.” However, his father and mother did not know that it was of the Lord, for He was seeking an occasion against the Philistines. Now at that time , the Philistines were ruling over Israel. This verse has caused much debate and appears very difficult to understand. Didn’t God forbid Israelites to marry foreign women? And why would Samson desire an unbelieving wife whom it appears he was just attracted to because of her outward beauty? First of all, God only prohibited the Israelites from marrying Canaanite women from the seven nationalities that made up the Promised Land. The Philistines were not part of the people groups of Canaan. So the Philistines did not originate from the Canaanite groups infected by the Amorite sins as mentioned in Genesis 15:16. The Philistine land was considered separate from the Canaanite land as mentioned in Exodus 13:17, and the people group was distinguished from the Canaanites as mentioned in Joshua 13:1-6. Additionally, Boaz married Ruth, who was a Moabite, from whom the lineage of David and Christ came. So there is no direct conflict with God's commands and His possible moving in the heart of Samson to be attracted to a Philistine woman. However, even if it were sinful of Samson and arose wholly of him, and God simply allowed it for His own purposes, it could still be something "of the Lord." Whether God is actively doing or passively allowing, He is working. That is simply how God operates in a sinful world. Humans sin, and God works despite that sin. 5. Samson demonstrates his superhuman ability by killing a lion with his bare hands. Judges 14:5: Then Samson went down to Timnah with his father and mother, and came as far as the vineyards of Timnah; and behold, a young lion came roaring toward him. The Spirit of the Lord came upon him mightily, so that he tore him as one tears a young goat though he had nothing in his hand; but he did not tell his father or mother what he had done. By failing to tell his parents, Samson neglects their wise counsel and guidance parents provide. 6. Samson breaks his Nazirite vow and touches the dead lion he had previously killed. Judges 14:7-9: So he went down and talked to the woman ; and she looked good to Samson. When he returned later to take her, he turned aside to look at the carcass of the lion; and behold, a swarm of bees and honey were in the body of the lion. So he scraped the honey into his hands and went on, eating as he went. When he came to his father and mother, he gave some to them and they ate it; but he did not tell them that he had scraped the honey out of the body of the lion. By touching a dead animal, S amson violates part of his Nazirite Vow. 7. Samson throws a party for his marriage, proposes a riddle, and then succumbs to his wife’s pressure to reveal it. Judges 14:10: Then his father went down to the woman; and Samson made a feast there, for the young men customarily did this. When they saw him, they brought thirty companions to be with him. This customary feast was, literally, a “drinking party.” Although Scripture doesn’t indicate whether Samson participating in the drinking, it was very likely he did. If he did indeed drink, this was another violation of his Nazirite Vow. Samson proposes a riddle, his wife deceives him into telling her, and she tells her kinsmen. 8. Then the Spirit of God comes upon Samson and he killed 30 Philistines. Judges 14:19: Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon him mightily, and he went down to Ashkelon and killed thirty of them and took their spoil and gave the changes of clothes to those who told the riddle. And his anger burned, and he went up to his father’s house. But Samson’s wife was given to his companion who had been his friend. 9. Samson seeks revenge because his wife had been given to one of Samson’s good friends. Judges 15:4-5: Samson went and caught three hundred foxes, and took torches, and turned the foxes tail to tail and put one torch in the middle between two tails. When he had set fire to the torches, he released the foxes into the standing grain of the Philistines, thus burning up both the shocks and the standing grain, along with the vineyards and groves. 10. The Israelites deliver Samson to the Philistines bound in new ropes, but Samson breaks the ropes like wax and kills 1,000 Philistines. Judges 15:14-15: When he came to Lehi, the Philistines shouted as they met him. And the Spirit of the Lord came upon him mightily so that the ropes that were on his arms were as flax that is burned with fire, and his bonds dropped from his hands. He found a fresh jawbone of a donkey, so he reached out and took it and killed a thousand men with it. 11. God provides for Samson after he killed the 1,000 with a donkey's jawbone. Judges 15:18-20: Then he became very thirsty, and he called to the Lord and said, “You have given this great deliverance by the hand of Your servant, and now shall I die of thirst and fall into the hands of the uncircumcised?” But God split the hollow place that is in Lehi so that water came out of it. When he drank, his strength returned and he revived. Therefore, he named it En- hakkore , which is in Lehi to this day. So he judged Israel twenty years in the days of the Philistines. 12. Samson commits sexual sin with a harlot. Judges 16:1-3: Now Samson went to Gaza and saw a harlot there, and went in to her. When it was told to the Gazites (part of the Philistines), saying, “Samson has come here,” they surrounded the place and lay in wait for him all night at the gate of the city. And they kept silent all night, saying, “Let us wait until the morning light, then we will kill him.” Now Samson lay until midnight, and at midnight he arose and took hold of the doors of the city gate and the two posts and pulled them up along with the bars; then he put them on his shoulders and carried them up to the top of the mountain which is opposite Hebron. From Gaza to Hebron is about 45 miles. Even though Samson committed sexual sin with a prostitute, God had mercy on him and delivered him anyway. 13. Samson is defeated by the Philistines. Judges 16:4-5: After this, it came about that he loved a woman in the valley of Sorek, whose name was Delilah. The lords of the Philistines came up to her and said to her, “Entice him, and see where his great strength lies and how we may overpower him that we may bind him to afflict him. Then we will each give you eleven hundred pieces of silver.” Samson clearly had a weakness for women, which caused him to commit adultery and become impure and disobedient to God and his Nazarite Vow. 14. Delilah deceives Samson. Judges 16:18-21: When Delilah saw that he had told her all that was in his heart, she sent and called the lords of the Philistines, saying, “Come up once more, for he has told me all that is in his heart.” Then the lords of the Philistines came up to her and brought the money in their hands. She made him sleep on her knees, and called for a man and had him shave off the seven locks of his hair. Then she began to afflict him, and his strength left him. She said, “The Philistines are upon you, Samson!” And he awoke from his sleep and said, “I will go out as at other times and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had departed from him. Then the Philistines seized him and gouged out his eyes ; and they brought him down to Gaza and bound him with bronze chains, and he was a grinder in the prison. 15. When God’s name is mocked, and His glory is given to false gods, He chooses to once again use Samson for His sovereign purposes. Judges 16:23-31: Now the lords of the Philistines assembled to offer a great sacrifice to Dagon their god, and to rejoice, for they said, “Our god has given Samson our enemy into our hands.” When the people saw him, they praised their god, for they said, “Our god has given our enemy into our hands, Even the destroyer of our country, who has slain many of us.” It so happened when they were in high spirits, that they said, “Call for Samson, that he may amuse us.” So they called for Samson from the prison, and he entertained them. And they made him stand between the pillars. Then Samson said to the boy who was holding his hand, “Let me feel the pillars on which the house rests, that I may lean against them.” Now the house was full of men and women, and all the lords of the Philistines were there. And about 3,000 men and women were on the roof looking on while Samson was amusing them. Then Samson called to the Lord and said, “O Lord God, please remember me and please strengthen me just this time, O God, that I may at once be avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes.” Samson grasped the two middle pillars on which the house rested, and braced himself against them, the one with his right hand and the other with his left. And Samson said, “Let me die with the Philistines!” And he bent with all his might so that the house fell on the lords and all the people who were in it. So the dead whom he killed at his death were more than those whom he killed in his life. Then his brothers and all his father’s household came down, took him, brought him up and buried him between Zorah and Eshtaol in the tomb of Manoah his father. Thus, he had judged Israel twenty years. Faith Lesson from the life of Samson. 1. Weaknesses of Samson which destroyed his life and ministry. Samson failed to listen to the counsel of his parents. Samson was bitter and vengeful. Samson had a weakness for women. Samson broke many of his Nazirite vows. Samson walked in the flesh instead of in the Spirit. Samson had raw abilities but never refined them and submitted them fully to God’s control and lordship. Samson paid a heavy price for his continual neglect of submitting to God. We should develop our gifts, submit them to God, and be fully obedient in serving Him or we could copy the failures of Samson. 2. Strengths of Samson Samson is mentioned in Hebrews 11 as a man of faith. So, despite his many failures, he did have faith and believed in God. 3. Strengths of God Samson failed in many ways, but God still used him. Samson served during the period of the Judges, a time when Israel was a very spiritually immature people. This explains why Samson was so immature and why God still used him anyway. God is sovereign and uses sinful people for his purposes. Even in God’s garden of grace, broken trees produce fruit.

God, in His sovereignty, placed Tel Gezer, Israel, on the crossroads of the ancient world. They were to be a shining light for all to see God’s wonders, love, and miracles. See the importance of this location. Gezer is one of the largest tels in Israel. Whoever controlled Gezer had significant control over the ancient world. Gezer began to be inhabited some 5,000 years ago. It has around 21 layers of civilizations. Many child sacrifices were done here. Tel Gezer: On the Crossroads of the World Photo Gallery Places of Interest Gezer: On the Crossroads of the World Location 1. Gezer is in the eastern foothills of the coastal plain (Shaphelah) of western Israel. It is about 14 miles (22.5 km.) east of the Mediterranean Sea and about 19 miles (30.5 km.) west of Jerusalem. Tel Aviv sits about 17 miles (27 km.) to the northwest of Gezer. 2. Gezer was on the international north-south travel route called the Via Maris. It was also on a major east-west route that linked the coastal plain to Jerusalem and beyond. The Via Maris connected three continents, Africa, Asia, and Europe. This location is significant because Israel forms a narrow land bridge to connect these three continents. To the east is a desert and to the west is the Mediterranean Sea. This forced trade and travelers to use the Via Maris. Whatever happened in Israel was taken to the known world at that time. 3. Whoever controlled Gezer controlled the trade and influence of the ancient world in biblical times. 4. God, in His sovereignty, placed Israel on the crossroads of the known world so they could be a light to the world and communicate His message to them. 5. Gezer was in the territory of Ephraim. Historical Background 1. Gezer is one of the largest tels in Israel. 2. Whoever controlled Gezer had significant control over the ancient world. 3. Gezer began to be inhabited some 5,000 years ago. 4. It has around 21 layers of civilizations. 5. A tel is a mound of earth that develops as one civilization builds upon another. 6. The Canaanites first lived here from around 3000 BC to around 2000 BC. 7. Sadly, there has been found on this site many sacrificed babies. 8. When the Israelites arrived in 1406 BC, they failed to drive out the Philistines and occupy Gezer. 9. As a result, the Philistines lived here from around 2000 BC until King David subdued them in around 1000 BC. 10. Gezer existed during the time of Christ. 11. Gezer is mentioned 14 times in the Bible. 12. During the Hasmonean revolt (167 BC), the Jews lived close to Gezer and used it for battle purposes. 13. The Ottomans (15th and 16th centuries) lived here as well. Places of Interest 1. Parking 2. Canaanite Tower 3. Canaanite Gate 4. Water System 5. Sheikh's Tomb 6. Israelite City 7. Solomon’s Gate 8. Standing Stones 9. Lookout Point Gezer in the Bible 1. In the conquest of the Promised Land, God gave the Israelites victory over Gezer. Joshua 10:33: Then Horam king of Gezer came up to help Lachish. And Joshua struck him and his people, until he left none remaining. 2. The tribe of Ephraim was allotted Gezer, but they didn’t fully drive out its inhabitants and conquer them. Joshua 16:10: However, they did not drive out the Canaanites who lived in Gezer , so the Canaanites have lived in the midst of Ephraim to this day but have been made to do forced labor. 3. Gezer was one of the cities given to the Kohathite clans of the Levites. It was also a city of refuge. Joshua 21:20–22: As to the rest of the Kohathites belonging to the Kohathite clans of the Levites, the cities allotted to them were out of the tribe of Ephraim. 21 To them were given Shechem, the city of refuge for the manslayer, with its pasturelands in the hill country of Ephraim, Gezer with its pasturelands, 22 Kibzaim with its pasturelands, Beth-horon with its pasturelands-four cities. 4. King David, some 200 years later, conquered the Philistines who lived in Gezer. 2 Samuel 5:25: Then David did so, just as the Lord had commanded him, and struck down the Philistines from Geba as far as Gezer . 5. After King David, it appears Egypt also conquered Gezer and gave it to Solomon, who rebuilt and fortified it. 1 Kings 9:15–17: And this is the account of the forced labor that King Solomon drafted to build the house of the Lord and his own house and the Millo and the wall of Jerusalem and Hazor and Megiddo and Gezer 16 (Pharaoh king of Egypt had gone up and captured Gezer and burned it with fire, and had killed the Canaanites who lived in the city, and had given it as dowry to his daughter, Solomon's wife; 17 so Solomon rebuilt Gezer ) and Lower Beth-horon. Faith Lesson from Gezer 1. In the same way Gezer is on a hill found on the crossroads of the world, we too have been placed by God in the world to influence those around us. 2. Unlike the Ephraimites who failed to conquer Gezer and attain what God had promised them, we should subdue what God wants us to become and accomplish for Him. 3. Like the standing stones at Gezer, we should be firm in our faith and persevere under persecution and pressure. We should not allow the world to mold us, but instead, we should impact the world for Christ.

See all the key sites in Old City Jerusalem in this in-depth walking tour. Jerusalem Old City Walking Tour Photo Gallery Places of Interest Jerusalem Old City Tour Please refer to the Google Map above to view all the sites on this tour. Location 1. Jerusalem is in central Israel, about 33 miles (53 km) east of Tel Aviv and the Mediterranean Sea. 2. It’s situated at an altitude of 2,600 ft. (800 m.) above sea level and is one of the highest cities in Israel. 3. It’s located on a well-protected mountain, making it hard for enemy forces to capture it. 4. Jerusalem rests primarily upon bedrock, so everything was well preserved. 5. Jerusalem is the Old Testament Mount Moriah. Historical Background 1. Jerusalem means “City of Peace.” 2. It’s mentioned over 500 times in the Bible. 3. It’s first mentioned as the city in which King Melchizedek, King of Salem (Jerusalem) lived (Gen. 14:17). Melchizedek was a figure of Christ as he had neither beginning of days nor end of life. Hebrews 7:1: For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, who met Abraham as he was returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him, 2 to whom also Abraham apportioned a tenth part of all the spoils, was first of all, by the translation of his name, king of righteousness, and then also king of Salem, which is king of peace. 4. Jerusalem is the special dwelling place of God on this earth. Psalms 76:2: His tent is in Salem, his dwelling place in Zion . Psalm 135:21: Praise be to the LORD from Zion, to him who dwells in Jerusalem. Praise the LORD. Old City Jerusalem Tour Sites of Interest Please refer to the Google Map above to view all the sites on this tour. 1. Outside Jaffa Gate - Start of Walking Tour 2. Jaffa Gate 3. Tower of David 4. David Street Leading to Temple Mount & Western Wall 5. Rooftop Walk Entrance 6. Cardo Maximus 7. Cardo Ruins 1 8. Cardo Ruins 2 9. Cardo Ruins 3 10. Hurva Synagogue Plaza 11. Menorah 12. Hezekiah's Broad Wall 13. Cardo Minor Ruins 14. Southern Stairs Archaeological Site 15. Western Wall Excavations 16. Temple Mount Entrance 17. Western Wall 18. Western Wall Synagogue 19. Little Western Wall 20. Lions' Gate 21. Arab Temple Mount Access 22. Pools of Bethesda - Church of St. Anne 23. Station 1 Via Dolorosa 24. Station 1 Via Dolorosa (second # 1) 25. Station 2 Via Dolorosa 26. Convent of the Sisters of Zion - Underneath Antonia Fortress 27. Ecce Homo Arch 28. Stones from Street During Christ's Time 29. Station 3 Via Dolorosa 30. Station 4 Via Dolorosa 31. Station 5 Via Dolorosa 32. Station 6 Via Dolorosa 33. Old City Wall During Christ's Time 34. Station 7 Via Dolorosa 35. Station 8 Via Dolorosa 36. Station 9 Via Dolorosa 37. Stations 10-14 Via Dolorosa - Church of the Holy Sepulchre 38. Hadrian Plaza 39. Church of John the Baptist 40. Back to David Street 41. Jaffa Gate Plaza - End of Tour Faith Lesson from Jerusalem 1. Jerusalem has played a key role as the center of God’s dwelling place and ministry on this earth. 2. It will be the place Christ returns to in power and great glory at the end of the Great Tribulation Period. Believers will return with Him at this event. Will you be coming with him in glory or be judged by Him when He comes? 3. Christ will reign over all the earth in Jerusalem during the Millennial Reign. Will you be among those who reign with Him? 4. God will create a New Jerusalem, His new eternal dwelling place on the new earth. Those who follow Christ will have the privilege of living in or visiting this new city forever. Are you saved, and will you be in heaven, where the New Jerusalem will be?

Emmaus, also known as Emmaus Nicopolis, is believed to be the site of the village of Emmaus, which is referred to in Luke 24, where Jesus met two of His followers on the road to Emmaus after his resurrection. Emmaus was a large city that existed from the Hellenistic period through the Byzantine period. It's strategically located on the main road that links Joppa and the coastal cities to Jerusalem. It has served as an administrative, military, and economic center. Emmaus Nicopolis Photo Gallery Places of Interest Emmaus Nicopolis Location 1. Emmaus is about 10 miles (14 km.) west of the outskirts of Jerusalem on Hwy. 1. 2. Emmaus is also known as Emmaus Nicopolis and is in Ayalon Canada Park. 3. It's believed to be the site of the village of Emmaus, which is referred to in Luke 24, where Jesus met two of His followers on the road to Emmaus after his resurrection. 4. The ruins of the old city are scattered over a vast area inside the park and on its west side. Historical Background 1. Emmaus was a large city that existed from the Hellenistic period through the Byzantine period. 2. It's strategically located on the main road that links Joppa and the coastal cities to Jerusalem. 3. It has served as an administrative, military, and economic center. 4. Eusebius (260–340 AD) mentioned Nicopolis as biblical Emmaus in his writings. 5. Jerome (347–420 AD) spoke of a church in Nicopolis, built in the house of Cleopas, where Jesus broke bread with His disciples. 6. From the 4th century on, the site has been widely identified as the biblical Emmaus. 7. A Byzantine church was built here in the 5th century. 8. Another Byzantine church was built beside the 5th-century church in around the 7th century. 9. Later, the Crusaders built a basilica over the 7th-century Byzantine church in the 12th century. Places of Interest 1. 5th Century Church 2. 7th Century Church 3. 12th Century Church 4. Byzantine Inscription 5. Byzantine Baptistry Chapel 6. 5th-century Bishop’s House 7. Ancient Tombs 8. Roman Bathhouse - Located several hundred yards (m.) north of the church. Emmaus in the Bible 1. After Christ’s resurrection, two of His followers were walking to Emmaus. Luke 24:13–14: And behold, two of them were going that very day to a village named Emmaus , which was about seven miles [60 stadia, Greek and Roman measurement that varied somewhat in length] from Jerusalem. 14 And they were talking with each other about all these things which had taken place. 2. Jesus talked to the disciples and enlightened them, but He didn’t let them know who He was. Luke 24:15–27: While they were talking and discussing, Jesus Himself approached and began traveling with them. 16 But their eyes were prevented from recognizing Him. 17 And He said to them, “What are these words that you are exchanging with one another as you are walking?” And they stood still, looking sad. 18 One of them, named Cleopas, answered and said to Him, “Are You the only one visiting Jerusalem and unaware of the things which have happened here in these days?” 19 And He said to them, “What things?” And they said to Him, “The things about Jesus the Nazarene, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word in the sight of God and all the people, 20 and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him to the sentence of death and crucified Him. 21 But we were hoping that it was He who was going to redeem Israel. Indeed, besides all this, it is the third day since these things happened. 22 But also some women among us amazed us. When they were at the tomb early in the morning, 23 and did not find His body, they came, saying that they had also seen a vision of angels who said that He was alive. 24 Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just exactly as the women also had said; but Him they did not see.” 25 And He said to them, “O foolish men and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Was it not necessary for the Christ to suffer these things and to enter into His glory?” 27 Then beginning with Moses and with all the prophets, He explained to them the things concerning Himself in all the Scriptures. 3. Jesus made Himself known to the disciples. Luke 24:28–32: And they approached the village where they were going, and He acted as though He were going farther. 29 But they urged Him, saying, “Stay with us, for it is getting toward evening, and the day is now nearly over.” So He went in to stay with them. 30 When He had reclined at the table with them, He took the bread and blessed it, and breaking it, He began giving it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened , and they recognized Him; and He vanished from their sight. 32 They said to one another, “Were not our hearts burning within us while He was speaking to us on the road, while He was explaining the Scriptures to us?” 4. The two men returned to Jerusalem and told the rest of the disciples that they had seen the risen Christ. Luke 24:33–35: And they got up that very hour and returned to Jerusalem , and found gathered together the eleven and those who were with them, 34 saying, “The Lord has really risen and has appeared to Simon.” 35 They began to relate their experiences on the road and how He was recognized by them in the breaking of the bread. Faith Lesson from Emmaus 1. There are hundreds of prophecies in the Old Testament that verify Christ as the Messiah. Do we believe Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God, and have we received Him as our Lord and Savior? 2. The New Testament is built upon the Old Testament as the Old Testament is quoted 855 times in the New Testament. Do we read and teach out of the Old Testament, or do we neglect it? 3. Being God, Christ knew every detail of the Bible and handled it with precision and clarity. Do we know God’s Word in detail, and do we handle it with precision (2 Tim. 2:15)? 4. Christ taught the Scriptures in such a way that they reached the very depths of a person’s heart. Are we master teachers or mediocre teachers? 5. Christ appeared to many after His resurrection, and to over 500 at one time. Do we believe the resurrection of Christ was a real historical event? 1 Corinthians 15:3-8: For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that He appeared to Cephas [Peter], then to the twelve. 6 After that He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen asleep; 7 then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles; 8 and last of all, as to one untimely born, He appeared to me also.

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?

Beth-Shean, also known as Beit Shean or Bet She’an, was a major biblical and secular city for thousands of years. It's the place King Saul's body was hung because he disobeyed God. It’s located in the center of several main crossroads between the Jordan Valley and the Jezreel (Yizreel) Valley. It was a thriving Roman Decapolis city during the time of Jesus. Beth-Shean Photo Gallery Places of Interest Beth-Shean Introduction Welcome to Beth-Shean. It has a rich history, with significant events from the Bible having occurred here. These are the highlights. 1. It was a tel with many layers of history. 2. It was a Canaanite fortress. 3. Later, it would be captured by the Israelites. 4. Saul and his son's bodies were hung on the wall of ancient Beth-Shean. 5. The Greeks made it into a Decapolis City. 6. Then, the Romans took it over and developed it into a glamorous city. 7. Beth-Shean was near Nazareth, and it’s possible that Jesus, as a young man, worked here with His father as a builder. It is undoubtedly one of the most preserved Roman cities in Israel. 8. It has breathtaking pillars, buildings, columns, a theater, and more. Location 1. Beth-Shean, also known as Beit Shean or Bet She’an, was a major biblical and secular city for thousands of years. 2. It’s located in the center of several main crossroads between the Jordan Valley and the Jezreel (Yizreel) Valley. 3. It’s about 15 miles (25 km) south of the southern tip of the Sea of Galilee and about 35 miles (55 km) east of the Mediterranean Sea. 4. It’s located on the Harod Stream, which provides it with much water. This Harod Stream is the same stream that originates at Harod Spring, just west of here (15 miles or 20 km), and is where Gideon chose 300 men under God’s command to defeat the Midianites and other armies. 5. The main entrance faced the east, as did most other major cities and structures in ancient times. In fact, the word "orientation" comes from the word “orient,” which means east. Because creation, the beginning civilizations, and the sun rose from the east, to be oriented was to position yourself with your focus on the east. Today, maps use the north for orientation, but in ancient days, maps used the east for orientation purposes. Historical Background 1. Beth-Shean was a key city long before the arrival of the Israelites because of its location. During the late Canaanite period (1600–1400 BC), the Egyptians had political control over the land of Canaan. 2. Later, around 1050 BC, the Philistines also ruled the city for a time because they hung King Saul's body on its walls after defeating Israel's armies in the Battle of Gilboa. 3. When King David reigned (1010–970 BC), he conquered Beth-Shean, making it part of Israel’s territories. 4. Later, in 732 BC, the Assyrian king, Tiglath-Pileser III, destroyed Beth-Shean after defeating the northern Kingdom of Israel. 5. In around 325 BC, Hellenistic (Greek) new settlers established a city-state (polis) in Beth-Shean. During the Hellenistic period, the city was named Nisa Scythopolis. 6. In 63 BC, the Romans conquered the City. It became one of the Decapolis, a group of cities with a Hellenistic-Roman cultural character, most of which were located in Transjordan. Beth-Shean was one of the key cities of the Roman Empire in this area south of Galilee. 7. Beth-Shean was not far from Nazareth, and it’s possible that Jesus, as a young man, worked here with His father as a builder. 8. Undoubtedly, Christ walked by it regularly. 9. Beth-Shean was destroyed in 749 AD due to an enormous earthquake. 10. The biblical tel of Beth-Shean has around 20 layers of civilizations that have been discovered. Places of Interest 1. Model of Beth-Shean 2. Old Testament Beth-Shean Tree marking the place where Saul’s body was hanged. Canaanite Ruins Israelite Ruins Roman Temple Egyptian Governor’s House 3. Theater – Often, immoral and indecent acts took place there. Therefore, early Christians avoided them and were persecuted as a result. 4. Bathhouse – Often, it was a place of prostitution. Therefore, Christians avoided such places. 5. Cardo (Palladius Street) – Comes from the word “Cardiac,” which means the central street of the city. Sigma - A mosaic depicting Tyche, Goddess of the city. Pillars Shopping stores 6. Marketplace (Agora) – Just below the Cardo, to the south, was an area of the city known as the Agora. It was a large plaza with many shops and places to visit. It was the center of the city's activities. It was places like Paul would be dragged into during his visits to cities in the Roman Empire (Acts 16:19). 7. Temple – Paul spoke against the gods of these temples in each Gentile city where he ministered (Acts 14:13). For those who failed to pay their respect to all these false gods, they would be persecuted and even put to death. 8. Northern Street Entrance 9. Nymphaeum – Public Fountain 10. City Gate during Greek and Roman times. 11. Valley Street - Main entrance street from the Jordan Valley. 12. Silvanus Street - North/South Street with large pillars on the west side. It was the second largest street after the Cardo. 13. Eastern Bathhouse—Bathhouses were a big part of life in the Roman Empire and its larger cities, Beth Shean being no exception. In addition to its upper bathhouse, which consisted mainly of hot water and a sauna, this lower bathhouse had pools of cold water for a different use. 14. Public Bathrooms – These bathrooms are quite interesting. As you can see, there was no privacy whatsoever. You would sit right beside your neighbor while here. Both men and women used the same bathrooms. While at the time, they were state-of-the-art and had flowing water for cleansing purposes, by today's standards, they were pretty gross and disgusting, with no privacy whatsoever. 15. Cultic Temple Area – In addition to the lower temple, Beth Shean also had an upper temple area. It had altars, a raised podium, and a stairway leading up to it. Everyone was expected to worship here, and, as we mentioned earlier, those who didn't would face persecution. Beth-Shean in the Bible 1. Beth-Shean is mentioned in the division and conquering of the Promised Land. Joshua 17:11: Also in Issachar and in Asher, Manasseh had Beth-Shean and its villages. 2. The Canaanites were a strong and fortified people. Joshua 17:16: The people of Joseph said, “The hill country is not enough for us. Yet all the Canaanites who dwell in the plain have chariots of iron, both those in Beth-Shean and its villages and those in the Valley of Jezreel. 3. The tribe of Manasseh could not conquer the city of Beth-Shean and its villages. Judges 1:27: Manasseh did not drive out the inhabitants of Beth-Shean and its villages. 4. The major biblical event about Beth-Shean has to do with the life of King Saul. As a result of Saul’s persistent disobedience and presuming upon God’s grace, his life was taken by the Lord, and his body, along with his sons, were hanged here on the walls of the biblical Beth-Shean, which is the hill above the lower Beth-Shean . Saul’s Disobedient Life 1. Saul had incredible jealousy and tried to kill David for many years. Scripture records several instances where Saul attempted to kill David: 1 Samuel 18:11, 1 Samuel 18:25, 1 Samuel 19:9–15, 1 Samuel 20:31–33, 1 Samuel 23:9, and 1 Samuel 23:25–26. Saul even gave his daughter, Michal, in marriage to David as a means to ensnare and kill him. 2. When Saul felt pressured during a battle, he offered sacrifices that only a priest was allowed to do. 1 Samuel 13:5-7: And the Philistines mustered to fight with Israel, thirty thousand chariots and six thousand horsemen and troops like the sand on the seashore in multitude. They came up and encamped in Michmash, to the east of Beth-aven. 6 When the men of Israel saw that they were in trouble (for the people were hard pressed), the people hid themselves in caves and in holes and in rocks and in tombs and in cisterns, 7 and some Hebrews crossed the fords of the Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. Saul was still at Gilgal, and all the people followed him trembling. 3. Saul's Unlawful Sacrifice. 1 Samuel 13:8–14: He waited seven days, the time appointed by Samuel. But Samuel did not come to Gilgal, and the people were scattering from him. 9 So Saul said, “Bring the burnt offering here to me, and the peace offerings.” And he offered the burnt offering. 10 As soon as he had finished offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came. And Saul went out to meet him and greet him. 11 Samuel said, “What have you done?” And Saul said, “When I saw that the people were scattering from me, and that you did not come within the days appointed, and that the Philistines had mustered at Michmash, 12 I said, ‘Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not sought the favor of the Lord.’ So I forced myself, and offered the burnt offering.” 13 And Samuel said to Saul, “You have done foolishly. You have not kept the command of the Lord your God, with which he commanded you. For then the Lord would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. 14 But now your kingdom shall not continue. The Lord has sought out a man after his own heart, and the Lord has commanded him to be prince over his people, because you have not kept what the Lord commanded you.” 4. Saul failed to obey God by not destroying God’s enemies. 1 Sam. 15: 1–3: And Samuel said to Saul, "The LORD sent me to anoint you king over his people Israel; now therefore listen to the words of the LORD. 2 Thus says the LORD of hosts, 'I have noted what Amalek did to Israel in opposing them on the way when they came up out of Egypt. 3 Now go and strike Amalek and devote to destruction all that they have. Do not spare them, but kill both man and woman, child and infant, ox and sheep, camel and donkey." 5. Samuel confronts Saul’s disobedience. 1 Samuel 15:22–23: And Samuel said, "Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams. 23 For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and presumption is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, he has also rejected you from being king." 6. In a heated battle with the Philistines, Saul disobeyed God and visited a witch of Endor. 1 Samuel 28:15–19: Then Samuel said to Saul, “Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?” Saul answered, “I am in great distress, for the Philistines are warring against me, and God has turned away from me and answers me no more, either by prophets or by dreams. Therefore, I have summoned you to tell me what I shall do.” 16 And Samuel said, “Why then do you ask me, since the Lord has turned from you and become your enemy? 17 The Lord has done to you as he spoke by me, for the Lord has torn the kingdom out of your hand and given it to your neighbor, David. 18 Because you did not obey the voice of the Lord and did not carry out his fierce wrath against Amalek, therefore the Lord has done this thing to you this day. 19 Moreover, the Lord will give Israel also with you into the hand of the Philistines, and tomorrow you and your sons shall be with me. The Lord will give the army of Israel also into the hand of the Philistines.” 7. As a result of Saul’s repeated disobedience, God took his life. 1 Samuel 31:1-13: Now the Philistines fought against Israel, and the men of Israel fled before the Philistines and fell slain on Mount Gilboa. 2 And the Philistines overtook Saul and his sons, and the Philistines struck down Jonathan and Abinadab and Malchi - shua , the sons of Saul. 3 The battle pressed hard against Saul, and the archers found him, and he was badly wounded by the archers. 4 Then Saul said to his armor-bearer, "Draw your sword, and thrust me through with it, lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and mistreat me." But his armor-bearer would not, for he feared greatly. Therefore, Saul took his own sword and fell upon it. 5 And when his armor-bearer saw that Saul was dead, he also fell upon his sword and died with him. 6 Thus Saul died, and his three sons, and his armor-bearer, and all his men, on the same day together. 7 And when the men of Israel who were on the other side of the valley and those beyond the Jordan saw that the men of Israel had fled and that Saul and his sons were dead, they abandoned their cities and fled. And the Philistines came and lived in them. 8 The next day, when the Philistines came to strip the slain, they found Saul and his three sons fallen on Mount Gilboa. 9 So they cut off his head and stripped off his armor and sent messengers throughout the land of the Philistines, to carry the good news to the house of their idols and to the people. 10 They put his armor in the temple of Ashtaroth, and they fastened his body to the wall of Beth-shan. 11 But when the inhabitants of Jabesh- gilead heard what the Philistines had done to Saul, 12 all the valiant men arose and went all night and took the body of Saul and the bodies of his sons from the wall of Beth-shan, and they came to Jabesh and burned them there. 13 And they took their bones and buried them under the tamarisk tree in Jabesh and fasted seven days. Faith Lesson from Beth-Shean 1. Saul cared more about what people thought of him than what God thought of him. 2. He made big decisions without consulting the Lord. 3. Saul always had an excuse for his sin and disobedience. 4. We must realize that obedience delights God more than asking forgiveness. 5. Rebellion & arrogance are the same as witchcraft because both attitudes fail to obey God and instead seek their own will and pleasure. 6. Saul presumed upon God’s grace. In other words, he believed he could disobey God, that God would forgive him, and that there would be no consequences. This attitude proved to be both dangerous and sinful, ultimately costing him his life and ministry. 7. Are we committed to submitting to God, or do we set ourselves up as our own authority like Saul?