The Cardo is a remnant of Aelia Capitolina, the Roman city built over the ruins of Jerusalem following the Jewish rebellions of 70 and 135 AD. It was a paved, 22.5-meter-wide road running southward from the Damascus Gate. The Cardo Maximus, also known simply as the Cardo, was the main north-south boulevard of the ancient Roman city of Aelia Capitolina. The Cardos In Old City Jerusalem Photo Gallery Places of Interest The Cardos In Old City Jerusalem Introduction 1. The Cardo Maximus was the grand main street of Roman and Byzantine Jerusalem, running north to south through the heart of the city. Once lined with columns, shops, and markets, it was the bustling center of daily life almost 2,000 years ago. 2. The Cardo Minor was a smaller main street that ran north and south. It was located east of the Cardo Maximus and was closer to the Temple Mount. 3. Many of its ruins remain to this day, and we'll walk on the same stones and see the same pillars that have existed for almost 2,000 years. 4. Today, visitors can still walk along sections of the restored street in the Jewish Quarter, where ancient stones meet modern galleries and shops. 5. Let's explore and experience this site. Location 1. The excavated part of Cardo Maximus Street is located in the Jewish Quarter of Old City Jerusalem, near the main Jewish Street. It has an open-air section, a small museum, and art and jewelry shops. 2. Part of the Cardo Minor has been uncovered on the western side of the Western Wall Plaza. Historical Background 1. The Cardo is a remnant of Aelia Capitolina. Aelia is derived from the emperor’s family name (Aelius, from the gens Aelia), and Capitolina refers to the cult of the Capitoline Triad (Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva). 2. Aelia Capitolina was the Roman city built over the ruins of Jerusalem following the Jewish rebellions of 70 and 135 AD. The Cardo Maximus, also known simply as the Cardo, was a paved, 22.5-meter-wide road running southward from the Damascus Gate. It was the main north-south boulevard of the ancient Roman city of Aelia Capitolina. For 500 years, it was the city's main commercial avenue, lined with shops and vendors. Today, part of the street has been renovated, making it a unique experience in Jerusalem’s Jewish Quarter in the Old City. 3. The Cardo Maximus, also known simply as the Cardo, was the main north-south boulevard of the ancient Roman city of Aelia Capitolina. Emperor Hadrian established Aelia Capitolina in 135 AD on the site of the destroyed city of Jerusalem. The term “Cardo” is taken from the Latin word “hinge,” signifying its role as the central north-south axis in Roman cities. During the Roman period, the Cardo Maximus originated at the Damascus Gate in the north and extended southwards, splitting into two branches. The western branch led up to the modern-day Jewish Quarter. The Cardo was the eastern branch that followed the route of Ha-gay Street towards the modern-day Western Wall Plaza. Historical Periods of the Cardo First and Second Temple Period - 700 BC to 70 AD Although the Cardo Maximus is already 2.5M under the Modern street level, there are more layers of history underneath it as we go back in time. Earlier layers reveal the Hasmonean, Hellenistic, and early Roman periods. There are even remains from the 8th century BC period. Roman Period - 132 to 314 AD The Cardo in Jerusalem was initially constructed during the Roman period, following the city's reestablishment as Aelia Capitolina by Emperor Hadrian in the 130s AD. This north-south thoroughfare was designed to facilitate movement and commerce within the city. The Roman Cardo began at the Damascus Gate in the north and extended southwards, forming the central axis of the city's layout. Its western branch probably led up to the northern gate of the Tenth Legion's encampment on the Western Hill of Ancient Jerusalem. The eastern branch followed the Tyropoeon Valley, which ran parallel to the Western Wall of the Herodian Temple Mount and presumably led toward the southern city gate in the vicinity of the modern-day Dung Gate. The two branches of the street were lined with colonnades and featured a central open-air passageway flanked by porticoed sidewalks and shops, reflecting the typical Roman architectural style. The construction of the Cardos was part of a broader effort to Romanize Jerusalem, integrating it into the empire's network of cities. Byzantine Period - 314 to 614 AD The Cardo appears on the Madaba map during the Byzantine period. The map is located at St. George's Church in Madaba. This detailed map, dating to around 542 AD, shows most of the Holy Land and the city of Jerusalem. During the Byzantine period, significant developments were made to the Cardo in Jerusalem. In the 6th century AD, during the reign of Emperor Justinian, the Cardo was extended southward from its original Roman layout. This extension reached the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and continued to the Zion Gate. The Byzantine Cardo maintained the colonnaded design of its Roman predecessor, featuring a central open-air passage flanked by sidewalks and shops. Excavations have revealed a Byzantine level on the southern side of the Cardo, which included restored columns and other architectural elements. The Madaba Map shows the Cardo, underscoring its importance in the city's layout during this period. The Nea Church, built by Roman Emperor Justinian to honor Mary, the mother of Jesus, is also known as the New Church (Nea). It was a massive church built on the Cardo Maximus. The false god temple that Hadrian built over Golgotha was torn down, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was built in its place. As the false god temple Hadrian built was the central focus of Aelia Capitolina, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre became the central focus of the original and renamed Jerusalem. Crusader Period - 1099 to 1291 AD North of the modern Cardo shopping center in the Jewish Quarter are Arab shops. These shops are much older, owned by Arab merchants, and built over the Cardo Maximus. This section, 125m (136 yards) in length, is located between David Street (Suq el Bazar) and El Saraya Street. It is parallel and east of the Muristan section of the Christian quarter. Here, the Crusaders split the broad Cardo Street (22.5m, 74 ft) into three north-south narrow alleys, which were converted to covered markets. Along the walls are engraved inscriptions dating to the Crusaders' Period. These inscriptions, “ANNA,” “SCA ANNA,” and “SCA,” mark the owner of the Suq Lahamin market: the church of St. Anna. Other streets show inscriptions, such as Templars (“T”). The markets were one of the institutions' sources of income in Medieval Jerusalem. Muslim Period - 1291 to 1917 AD In the 7th century, when Jerusalem fell under Muslim rule, the Cardo became an Arab-style marketplace. Over the years, it slowly fell into ruins and was built over as the city was destroyed and rebuilt several times. Modern Period - 1917 to Present During the Israeli-Arab War in 1948, the Jordanians conquered the Jewish quarter and deported its Jewish residents. The quarter was left in ruins for 19 years, until 1967. However, as a result of the Six-Day War, Jerusalem was reunited, now under Israeli sovereignty. The state of Israel strived to rebuild the Jewish quarter and repopulate it. Before the construction began, a major archaeological project was launched, during which many discoveries were made. The archaeologists uncovered a section of the “Cardo Maximus.” Parts of the street, where Ottoman-era roofing was still intact, were developed into a commercial area, with some Byzantine-era columns repositioned. The modern restoration of the Cardo in Jerusalem began following its rediscovery during excavations in the Jewish Quarter in 1969. The restoration plan, heavily influenced by the depiction of the Cardo on the Madaba Map, aimed to preserve the ancient street's historical integrity while incorporating contemporary materials. A portion of the Cardo has been rebuilt as a covered shopping arcade, reflecting the style of an ancient Roman street. This restored section serves as a modern shopping lane, with stores housed in the ancient Crusader-era shops. The restoration has transformed the Cardo into a lively tourist area, maintaining its historical significance while adapting it for contemporary use. Cardo Maximus Excavated Sites of Interest Corinthian Columns Situated in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, this section's exposed length is about 150 meters and some 2.5 meters below modern street level. Only five full columns stand at their original height, and one at partial height. Simple bases supported monolithic shafts spaced 5.77 meters apart, which supported intricately carved Byzantine-style Corinthian capitals. Remains of the Shops The Byzantine street was open to the sky in the center but was covered on both sides with terra-cotta tiles supported by wooden planks. The roadway was divided into three parts: two colonnaded covered walks and a 12-meter-wide road in the center. Pavement The central open pavement served as both commercial access and ritual space. Some of the excavated Cardo sections are located under the modern houses of the Jewish quarter. The street was covered with replaceable hard limestone slabs, as was customary with paved roads. Pavers that were filed smoothly were exposed everywhere. Mural Painting A large mural painting shows what Cardo would have looked like 1,500 years ago. This vivid image of the bustling streets of Cardo displays the wears, a covered walkway, animals, and other colorful characters. Replica of the Madaba Map This can be found just south of the main excavated section of the Cardo Maximus. The part of the map depicts Jerusalem, with the Cardo Maximus, a colonnaded street, in the center. Two important structures along the Cardo were the Nea Church and the Holy Sepulchre. The Cardo's most striking visual feature was its colonnade, clearly depicted on the Madaba Map. Cardo by Damascus Gate Sites of Interest Cardo Shops by the Damascus Gate Today, the Cardo is the division between the Christian and Muslim quarters. As in ancient times, this street was the main thoroughfare in the Old City, but today, it is much narrower. For example, Suq Lahamin Street has 83 shops on both sides of the narrow alley. It is known by different names: “Vegetable Market,” “Spices Street,” “Herbs Street,” and “Butcher’s Market.” Places of Interest 1. Cardo Maximus 2. Cardo Minor 3. Damascus Gate 4. Zion Gate 5. Temple Mount 6. Muslim Quarter 7. Christian Quarter 8. Jewish Quarter 9. Armenian Quarter 10. Western Wall 11. Church of the Holy Sepulchre 12. Cardo Maximus Excavations 13. Cardo Minor Excavations 14. Model of Byzantine Jerusalem at St. Peter Gallicantu Church The Cardo In the Bible 1. Jesus' prophecy that Jerusalem would be destroyed is fulfilled in its history. Luke 19:41-44: And when he drew near and saw the city, he wept over it, 42saying, “Would that you, even you, had known on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. 43For the days will come upon you, when your enemies will set up a barricade around you and surround you and hem you in on every side 44and tear you down to the ground , you and your children within you. And they will not leave one stone upon another in you, because you did not know the time of your visitation.” Luke 23:28-29: But turning to them Jesus said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For behold, the days are coming when they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren and the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed!’ Faith Lesson 1. God sent Israel and Judah prophet after prophet over a period of around 400 years to warn them against rejecting Him. God was more than patient with them. What about us? Do we take God's word and His warnings seriously? 2. Judah, the southern part of Israel, should have seen God's seriousness when it saw the northern part of Israel deported to Assyria in 722 BC. What about us? Do we heed what God does to others and realize He could do the same to us if we continue rebelling against Him? 3. God led all of Israel into captivity because they rejected Him. 2 Kings 24:20: For because of the anger of the Lord this happened in Jerusalem and Judah, that He finally cast them out from His presence. What about us? Do we genuinely believe there will be consequences to our rejection of God and living life as we want instead of following God's will for our lives?

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 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?

Qumran is the location of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Learn about Qumran, the Essenes, and the amazing discoveries of the Dead Sea Scrolls. The Dead Sea Scrolls prove the Bible is true. See the settlement at Qumran and the caves where the scrolls were found. Qumran is located on the northwest side of the Dead Sea. It’s in the Judean Wilderness, where it’s barren and hot. It’s believed that the ancient settlement of Qumran was established by a Jewish group called the Essenes. Qumran: Dead Sea Scrolls Photo Gallery Places of Interest Qumran and the Dead Sea Scrolls Introduction 1. Welcome to this incredible site of Qumran. 2. This area is where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. What was discovered here is one of the most monumental archaeological discoveries of all time. 3. They prove that the Bible we have today is the same one found here and verified by Jesus. 4. My wife and I hiked up to Cave 1 and other caves. It was quite an experience. 5. This site plays a monumental role in the validity of the Bible. 6. There are around 972 manuscripts (15,000 fragments) that have been found to date. The longest is 26 feet (8 m.) long. 7. The scrolls were discovered in eleven caves between 1947 and 1956. 8. They include fragments from every book of the Old Testament except for the Book of Esther (Esther might have been lost or decomposed due to time or may have been damaged by the Bedouin shepherds). 9. The scrolls were written by a very strict religious community that lived here, called the Essenes. 10. The ruins here are from their time. Location 1. Qumran is located on the northwest side of the Dead Sea on Hwy 90, about 13 miles (21 km) east of Jerusalem. 2. It’s in the Judean Wilderness, where it’s barren and hot. 3. It’s located 1200 feet (366 m.) below sea level. 4. Its water source comes from the Judean Mountains to the west of the community via an aqueduct. 5. There are many caves in the area. 6. At Qumran, one of the most important discoveries in the history of biblical archaeology took place around 1947. Historical Background 1. It’s believed that a Jewish group established the ancient settlement of Qumran called the Essenes. 2. They lived here from about 200 BC to around 68 AD. 3. There were around 200 people who inhabited Qumran during its history. 4. The ruins were excavated in the 1950s by a French archaeological team. 5. The Essenes were a Jewish sect that flourished from the 2nd century BC to the 1st century AD. They were a spiritually devoted group of folks who left Jerusalem because they believed that the priesthood had become corrupted beyond repair and separated themselves to study the Bible, copy it, and seek the Lord in the desert. 6. The Jewish historian Josephus records that the Essenes existed in large numbers; thousands lived throughout Judaea. They were fewer in number than the Pharisees and Sadducees (the other two major sects at the time). The Essenes lived in various cities, but congregated in communal life dedicated to voluntary poverty, daily immersion, and asceticism; their priestly class practiced celibacy. Most scholars claim they seceded from the Zadokite priests. It was this group of Jews who lived at Qumran. They mainly lived in the surrounding caves or tents just outside the community. 7. They were a strict Torah observant, Messianic, apocalyptic, new covenant Jewish sect. They were led by a priest they called the "Teacher of Righteousness.” They were highly educated and very familiar with writing and study. 8. The future monastery lifestyle followed similar patterns to the Essene community. 9. Josephus wrote that the men of Qumran rejected marriage and instead cared for the needy and neglected children of others. However, later discoveries have found skeletons of women, so it’s believed that some men were possibly married and women were part of the community. 10. The Essenes most likely wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls from about 200 BC to 68 AD. Josephus and other secular sources mention the Essenes. However, they are not mentioned in the New Testament. 11. It's likely the Essenes stored their copied manuscripts in caves so they were protected from the elements and safe in case of war. 12 . It's also likely that w hen the Essenes saw the nation of Israel falling to the Romans around 68 AD, they hid their manuscripts in caves around Qumran. These manuscripts are what we refer to as the Dead Sea Scrolls. Qumran and John the Baptist 1. Many Bible scholars link the Essene group who lived at Qumran to John the Baptist. 2. While the Bible does not say whether John the Baptist was part of the group, they do share many similarities. They both were unhappy and rejected the religious leadership in Jerusalem and the temple functions. They both left Jerusalem and the temple leadership, fleeing to the same desert area east of Jerusalem, near the northern part of the Dead Sea. They both believed in a soon-coming Messiah. 3. However, some Bible scholars believe that John the Baptist left the Qumran community after some time because of differences. The Essenes believed in ritual cleansing in Mikvehs and other water sources for regular cleansing. John the Baptist believed in baptism as a one-time event signifying repentance for sins and preparation for the Messiah. According to this view, after John the Baptist left the Qumran community, he went to the southern part of the Jordan River, just east of Jericho, to minister and baptize there. Today, this place is known as "Qsar al-Yahud," also referred to as the Baptismal Site of Jesus. Historical Background of the Dead Sea Scrolls 1. Around 1947, Bedouin shepherds were tending their goats and sheep near the ancient settlement of Qumran. One of the young shepherds threw a rock into a cave and heard an echo. He and his friends later climbed into the cave and found a collection of large clay jars, seven of which contained leather and papyrus scrolls. An antiquities dealer from Bethlehem purchased the scrolls, which later came into the possession of numerous scholars who estimated that the manuscripts were approximately 2,000 years old. After news of the discovery was made public, Bedouin treasure hunters and archaeologists discovered tens of thousands of additional scroll fragments from 10 nearby caves. 2. The scrolls were discovered in eleven caves between 1947 and 1956. The manuscripts are numbered according to the caves in which they were found. 3. There are around 972 manuscripts (15,000 fragments) that have been found to date. The longest is the Isaiah scroll, measuring 26 feet (8 m.) long. 4. They include fragments from every book of the Old Testament except for the Book of Esther (Esther might have been lost or decomposed due to time or may have been damaged by the Bedouin shepherds). 5. The writings consist of biblical manuscripts and other religious writings that circulated during the Second Temple era (516 BC to 70 AD). About 230 of the manuscripts are referred to as biblical scrolls. However, many of the manuscripts were fragmented and had to be assembled. 6. Cave 4, which is right beside ancient Qumran, had around 75% of all the material from the Qumran caves. 7. The Isaiah Scroll, found relatively intact, is 1,000 years older than any previously known copy of Isaiah, and the other scrolls are the oldest group of Old Testament manuscripts ever found. 8. The major intact manuscripts from Caves 1 and 11 were published in the late 1950s and are now housed in the Shrine of the Book Museum in Jerusalem. 9. To date, there are around 53 caves that have been discovered, many of them containing more scrolls. 10. Amazingly, the biblical manuscripts are virtually identical to the manuscripts we have today of the Old Testament part of the Bible. This proves God’s ability to preserve His word through the ages. 11. Interestingly, the inhabitants of Qumran were either killed or fled, as no one ever came back to retrieve the scrolls. Places of Interest 1. Aqueduct Entrance 2. Reservoirs 3. Cisterns 4. Tower 5. Kitchen 6. Scriptorium 7. Pottery Shop 8. Kiln 9. Mikveh (Ritual Bath) 10. Assembly Hall 11. Pantry 12. Animal Pen 13. Aqueduct 14. Cave viewing area (caves 4–10) 15. Caves 1, 2, 3, and 11 are located about 1 mile (1.62 km.) north of Qumran 16. Dead Sea Qumran and the Bible 1. The Dead Sea Scrolls would have been the same Hebrew Bible that Christ and the apostles used. 2. The Hebrew Bible was divided into three sections: The Law (Torah), the Writings (historical books), and the Prophets (major and minor prophets). 3. Christ gave full validity to the authority and accuracy of Scripture and used every section of it in His teachings. He repeatedly said, “So that it might be fulfilled,” “It is written,” “Have you not read?” and so forth. 4. Jesus quoted from the Old Testament when tested by the devil in Matthew chapter 4. This affirms the validity of Scripture by Jesus 5. Christ used the Old Testament to explain His purpose on earth. Luke 24:27: And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. 6. In the New Testament, there are 850 quotes or references to the Old Testament. 7. The New Testament is built upon the Old Testament and cannot be fully understood without it. The Uniqueness of the Bible 1. The Bible was written by 40 different authors, on three different continents, over a period of 1,600 years. Yet all the books of the Bible harmonize and keep the same themes like a puzzle pieced together in perfect harmony. 2. This harmony is a miracle in and of itself. For example, if an accident happened on a street corner and 10 witnesses were asked what they saw, there would be many different accounts or versions of the incident. However, this is not so with the Bible. It has a single guiding theme, despite being written by many authors over a long period of time on different continents. The Bible Was Written and Preserved Supernaturally by God 1. 2 Timothy 3:16-17: All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work. 2. 2 Peter 1:19–21: And we have something more sure, the prophetic word, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, 20 knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. 21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. 3. Hebrews 4:12–13: For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. 13 And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. 4. Matthew 4:4: But he answered, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" 5. Matthew 5:18: For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. 6. Luke 21:33: Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. Faith Lesson from Qumran 1. The Dead Sea Scrolls were one of the most important discoveries in the history of mankind. God supernaturally did this to prove the reliability of His Word. Do we believe in the Bible and that it’s God’s divine revelation to us? 2. Christ referred to every section of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) and repeatedly said, “So that it might be fulfilled,” “It is written,” “Have you not read?” and so forth. If Christ claimed the Hebrew Bible of His day was accurate, do we trust in the accuracy of the Bible we have today as well? 3. The New Testament contains around 850 references to the Old Testament. This shows how the New Testament is built upon the Old Testament. Do we read the Old Testament to understand the New Testament better? 4. If Christ was so passionate about the truthfulness of Scripture and claimed it was the very Word of God, then we, too, like Christ, can certainly trust God’s ability to preserve Scripture. Like Christ, are we passionate about the Bible, and do we read it regularly? 5. If God supernaturally preserved the accuracy of the Old Testament, do we believe He could do the same for the New Testament?

Learn about Ashkelon and the 5 cities of the Philistines. What all happened in Ashdod? What is its history? Who were the Philistines, where did they come from, and where did they live? They are mentioned in many places in the Old Testament and were the enemies of the Israelites. The Other Cities Were: Ashdod, Ekron, Gaza, & Gath. Biblical Ashkelon Photo Gallery Places of Interest Ashkelon Location 1. Ashkelon is located just south of Ashdod. It also is on the Mediterranean Ocean and was one of the five cities of the Philistines. Historical Background 1. South of the modern city of Ashkelon is a large National park with ruins of the ancient city. It has a history of 4,000 years and was a port city located on the main trade route from Egypt to the North. It started as a huge fortified Canaanite city and continued as a Philistine city, turning into a thriving commercial center and independent city during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. 2. The origin of the name Ashkelon appears to come from the word “shekel,” denoting a measure of weight – a fitting name for a commercial port city. 3. The specific name Ashkelon is mentioned in the Egyptian execration texts of the 19th century BC, and it appears again in other, later Egyptian inscriptions. 4. Ashkelon has the world's oldest Canaanite Gate in the world which dates back to almost 4000 years ago. 5. Ashkelon also played a part in the battle against the Assyrians. Zedaka, the ruler of Ashkelon, joined the rebellion of Hezekiah, king of Judah (701 BCE). In response, Sennacherib, king of Assyria, took over the city and replaced the treacherous ruler with one of his subjects. 6. The city changed hands many times after that, as Greeks and Maccabees and Romans and Muslims and Crusaders all had their turn. Some think that Herod the Great was born in Ashkelon; the fact is that he did build a palace and aqueduct there. 7. The Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar, who came to the city later, was less merciful. In 604 BC, he deported Aga, the last Philistine king of Ashkelon, and razed the city to the ground. 8. During the Persian period, Ashkelon was a prosperous commercial city under the auspices of the port cities of Tyre and Sidon. 9. It was used as a border fortress by the Crusaders from around 1100-1191 AD. However, Saladin destroyed the Ashkelon fortress in AD 1191 (during the end of the Crusader Period). As a result, the city lay in ruins for a century. This basically ended its history. 10. After this time, a town was built by Arabs near the original site of Ashkelon and called Al-Majdal. 11. Today, a large national park beautifully preserves the history of ancient Ashkelon. It's well worth a visit if you have a chance to see it. Places of Interest 1. The Canaanite Gate 2. The Rampart 3. Medieval Walls 4. The Roman Basilica 5. St. Mary Viridis Church 6. Wells: Within the national park, there are 67 wells, the majority of them from the Byzantine period. 7. Natural sand dunes and landscapes. Ashkelon in the Bible 1. Joshua and the Israelites conquered Ashkelon in the conquest of the Promised Land (Josh. 13:3), and it was allotted to Judah, who then occupied it (Judg. 1:18). 2. One of the golden tumors (emerods) that was returned with the Ark of the Covenant by the Philistines was from Ashkelon. 1 Samuel 6:17: Now these are the gold tumors which the Philistines returned as a guilt offering to the Lord: one for Ashdod , one for Gaza , one for Ashkelon , one for Gath , and one for Ekron . 3. Askelon is mentioned by David when, after Saul and Jonathan die, he lamented and mourned over them. 2 Samuel 1:19-20: Your beauty, Israel, is slaughtered on your high places! How the mighty have fallen! 20 Tell it not in Gath, proclaim it not in the streets of Ashkelon , or the daughters of the Philistines will rejoice, the daughters of the uncircumcised will celebrate. 4. Ashkelon was also denounced by Jeremiah (Jer. 25:20, 47:5–7), Zephaniah (2:4–7), and Zechariah (9:5). Faith Lesson from Ashkelon 1. God used the Philistines to punish the Israelites because they turned away from Him and followed false gods. In the same way, God often uses people in our lives to get us back on track with the Lord when we stray. 2. God judged the city of Ashkelon and held them accountable for their sins. In the same way, God will hold those who reject Him accountable today as well. We will all stand before God and give an account for our lives. 3. What about us? Are we right with God and letting our lights shine to a world that needs God and His salvation through Jesus Christ?

Kadesh Barnea marks one of the most tragic moments in Israel's history. After witnessing countless miracles on a grand scale, the Israelites doubt God's power and are condemned to wandering in the wilderness for forty years as a result. Kadesh Barnea Photo Gallery Places of Interest Kadesh Barnea Location 1. Kadesh Barnea is located on the southern border area between Israel and Egypt. 2. It’s about 31 miles (51 km.) east of the Mediterranean Ocean and about 33 miles (53 km.) southwest of Beer Sheba. 3. Kadesh Barnea was the original place where God intended the Israelites to enter the Promised Land. 4. Today, a community lives at Kadesh Barnea, and the town retains its same name. Historical Background 1. At Kadesh Barnea, one of the most tragic events in Israel’s history happened. 2. It’s here they rebelled against God’s plan for them to enter the Promised Land. As a result, they were severely judged for their lack of faith and condemned to wander in the wilderness 40 years until those 20 years, and older, died. 3. The Israelites had seen many spectacular miracles. They saw 10 supernatural plagues God sent upon the Egyptians. They witnessed the first Passover wherein God spared the Israelites as they put blood from a lamb around the doors of their dwellings. They saw God open the hearts of the Egyptians so that they gave them many possessions. They experienced supernatural help to cross the Sinai Peninsula on eagle’s wings to reach the Aqaba finger of the Red Sea. They beheld a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night to guide and protect them. They experienced the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea (10.5 miles wide, 17 km.) in which they were approximately 2,500 ft. (762 m.) under sea level in the midst of the depths and mighty waters of the sea (Isa. 51:10). They saw God supernaturally provide water out of a rock at Rephidim. God helped the Israelites supernaturally defeat the Amalekites as Aaron and Hur held up the arms of Moses. They stood in fear and trembling as God sent fire and smoke upon Mt. Sinai when he gave them the Ten Commandments written on stone by His own finger. They received supernatural provisions of Manna and quail in the desert. 4. The Israelites had been bathed in miracles for well over a year from the time they left Egypt until the time they reached Kadesh Barnea. 5. They had seen enough miracles to be able to trust God for anything. 6. However, despite all the miracles they had witnessed, they viewed God as too weak to help them enter the Promised Land and rebelled against Him. Places of Interest 1. Kadesh Barnea 2. Egypt 3. Sinai Peninsula 4. Aqaba Finger of the Red Sea crossing 5. Rephidim 6. Mt. Sinai 7. Israel Kadesh Barnea in the Bible 1. Twelve spies were sent into the Promised Land from Kadesh Barnea to give a report. Numbers 13:1–3: Then the Lord spoke to Moses saying, 2 “Send out for yourself men so that they may spy out the land of Canaan, which I am going to give to the sons of Israel; you shall send a man from each of their fathers’ tribes, every one a leader among them.” 3 So Moses sent them from the wilderness of Paran at the command of the Lord, all of them men who were heads of the sons of Israel. 2. Ten Spies gave a report of the difficulty in possessing the land. Numbers 13:25–29: When they returned from spying out the land , at the end of forty days, 26 they proceeded to come to Moses and Aaron and to all the congregation of the sons of Israel in the wilderness of Paran, at Kadesh ; and they brought back word to them and to all the congregation and showed them the fruit of the land. 27 Thus, they told him, and said, “We went in to the land where you sent us; and it certainly does flow with milk and honey, and this is its fruit. 28 Nevertheless, the people who live in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified and very large; and moreover, we saw the descendants of Anak there. 29 Amalek is living in the land of the Negev and the Hittites and the Jebusites and the Amorites are living in the hill country, and the Canaanites are living by the sea and by the side of the Jordan.” 3. Two spies (Joshua and Caleb) give a report of faith. Caleb is the spokesman. Numbers 13:30: Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses and said, “We should by all means go up and take possession of it, for we will surely overcome it.” 4. The 10 spies convince the people that they are unable to possess the land. Numbers 13:31–33: But the men who had gone up with him said, “We are not able to go up against the people, for they are too strong for us .” 32 So they gave out to the sons of Israel a bad report of the land which they had spied out, saying, “The land through which we have gone, in spying it out, is a land that devours its inhabitants; and all the people whom we saw in it are men of great size. 33 There also we saw the Nephilim (the sons of Anak are part of the Nephilim); and we became like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight.” 5. The Israelites rebel against God and decide to return to Egypt as slaves again. Numbers 14:1–4: Then all the congregation lifted up their voices and cried, and the people wept that night. 2 All the sons of Israel grumbled against Moses and Aaron; and the whole congregation said to them, “Would that we had died in the land of Egypt! Or would that we had died in this wilderness! 3 Why is the Lord bringing us into this land, to fall by the sword? Our wives and our little ones will become plunder; would it not be better for us to return to Egypt?” 4 So they said to one another, “Let us appoint a leader and return to Egypt .” 6. Moses, Aaron, Joshua, and Caleb plead with the people not to rebel against God’s will for them. Numbers 14:5–10: Then Moses and Aaron fell on their faces in the presence of all the assembly of the congregation of the sons of Israel. 6 Joshua the son of Nun and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, of those who had spied out the land, tore their clothes; 7 and they spoke to all the congregation of the sons of Israel, saying, “The land which we passed through to spy out is an exceedingly good land. 8 If the Lord is pleased with us, then He will bring us into this land and give it to us—a land which flows with milk and honey. 9 Only do not rebel against the Lord; and do not fear the people of the land, for they will be our prey. Their protection has been removed from them, and the Lord is with us; do not fear them.” 10 But all the congregation said to stone them with stones. Then the glory of the Lord appeared in the tent of meeting to all the sons of Israel. 7. God threatens to destroy the Israelites and make a great nation out of Moses’ offspring. Numbers 14:11–12: The Lord said to Moses, “How long will this people spurn Me? And how long will they not believe in Me, despite all the signs which I have performed in their midst? 12 I will smite them with pestilence and dispossess them, and I will make you into a nation greater and mightier than they.” 8. Moses prays on behalf of the people (Num. 14:13–19). 9. God forgives the Israelites but still judges them. Numbers 14:20–38: So the Lord said, “I have pardoned them according to your word ; 21 but indeed, as I live, all the earth will be filled with the glory of the Lord. 22 Surely all the men who have seen My glory and My signs which I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness, yet have put Me to the test these ten times and have not listened to My voice, 23 shall by no means see the land which I swore to their fathers, nor shall any of those who spurned Me see it. 24 But My servant Caleb, because he has had a different spirit and has followed Me fully, I will bring into the land which he entered, and his descendants shall take possession of it. 25 Now the Amalekites and the Canaanites live in the valleys; turn tomorrow and set out to the wilderness by the way of the Red Sea.” 26 The Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying, 27 “How long shall I bear with this evil congregation who are grumbling against Me? I have heard the complaints of the sons of Israel, which they are making against Me. 28 Say to them, ‘As I live,’ says the Lord, ‘just as you have spoken in My hearing, so I will surely do to you; 29 your corpses will fall in this wilderness, even all your numbered men, according to your complete number from twenty years old and upward, who have grumbled against Me. 30 Surely you shall not come into the land in which I swore to settle you, except Caleb the son of Jephunneh and Joshua the son of Nun. 31 Your children, however, whom you said would become a prey—I will bring them in, and they will know the land which you have rejected. 32 But as for you, your corpses will fall in this wilderness. 33 Your sons shall be shepherds for forty years in the wilderness, and they will suffer for your unfaithfulness, until your corpses lie in the wilderness. 34 According to the number of days which you spied out the land, forty days, for every day you shall bear your guilt a year, even forty years, and you will know My opposition. 35 I, the Lord, have spoken, surely this I will do to all this evil congregation who are gathered together against Me. In this wilderness they shall be destroyed, and there they will die.’” 36 As for the men whom Moses sent to spy out the land and who returned and made all the congregation grumble against him by bringing out a bad report concerning the land, 37 even those men who brought out the very bad report of the land died by a plague before the Lord. 38 But Joshua the son of Nun and Caleb the son of Jephunneh remained alive out of those men who went to spy out the land. Faith Lesson from Kadesh Barnea 1. The reality of the judgment of God is sobering. God forgave the Israelites, but He did not remove the consequences of their disobedience. We frequently find this in Scripture, i.e., Moses striking the rock and David and his sin with Bathsheba. 2. There were approximately 1.2 million Israelites 20 years old and above who died in the desert over a 40-year period. This means there were 30,000 funerals per year, 82 funerals a day, and 7 funerals an hour. 3. God has written these examples in the Bible for our instruction today. Romans 15:4: For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction , so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 1 Corinthians 10:1–13: For I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that our fathers were all under the cloud and all passed through the sea; and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea; and all ate the same spiritual food; and all drank the same spiritual drink, for they were drinking from a spiritual rock which followed them; and the rock was Christ. Nevertheless, with most of them God was not well-pleased; for they were laid low in the wilderness. Now these things happened as examples for us, so that we would not crave evil things as they also craved. Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink, and stood up to play.” Nor let us act immorally, as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in one day. Nor let us try the Lord, as some of them did, and were destroyed by the serpents. Nor grumble, as some of them did, and were destroyed by the destroyer. Now these things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have come . Therefore, let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall. No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. 4. Do I grumble and complain about God’s provision, trials, or difficulties He has sent my way? 5. Do I have faith that God can help me in whatever He has called me to do and be?

Videos About Bethlehem: The Place Where David Wrote Many of the Psalms In the Bible. See the area around Bethlehem where David would have grown up as a shepherd. Bethlehem means, “House of Bread.” Maybe because many wheat and barley fields were in this area. Sites of interest in the Bethlehem area include the Church of the Nativity, Shepherds' Fields, Herodian Fortress, and Rachel's Tomb. Bethlehem: David and the Psalms Bethlehem: David & the Psalms Welcome to the Holy Land and the biblical site of Bethlehem. See the Bible come to life as we take a look at one of the key events from the Scriptures that took place here. In this area that David grew up and wrote many of the Psalms. Here are some key points to help us understand this area better. Bethlehem means, “House of Bread”. Maybe because many wheat and barley fields were in this area. We know that in the story of Ruth and Boaz that Boaz was a wealthy farmer from Bethlehem who had a large field of barley here and that Ruth gleaned these fields to provide for her and her mother in law, Naomi. King David was born and raised here in Bethlehem. It was in the hills surrounding Bethlehem that David wrote many of the Psalms we find in Scripture. Let’s take a look at Psalm 23 which is one of the most famous and well known of all the Psalms David wrote. So here we read in this God-inspired Psalm of how God is our shepherd and does the following for us: "The LORD is my shepherd I shall not want" David was a shepherd and understood shepherding very well. A shepherd was the least sought after job. It’s boring, lonely and entails long hours. During David’s long hours he learned to sing, play instruments, write Psalms, throw rocks with a sling and learned about leadership. God is our shepherd and provides all we need both physically and spiritually if we’ll follow and obey Him. "He makes me lie down in green pasture" The green pastures of Bethlehem were desert areas so green pastures were like heaven to a desert animal and shepherd. It was in these green pastures David led his sheep and realized that God leads us to as well. "He leads me beside still water" To a desert shepherd caring for his sheep, water was more important than food and was life itself. These waters in the desert were accessible, peaceful, and gave new life. God does the same for us as He leads us by still waters. He refreshes and sustains our soul. In fact, Christ referred to Himself as, “the Water of life”. Desert people certainly understood the value of water and that it was the most important thing for survival. "He restores my soul" To restore speaks of giving new life, new strength, new desire to go on, of healing, and of a new purpose for living. "He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake" The paths on the hillside of a desert lead to many areas, some good, and some bad. God leads us in the paths that lead to goodness and health and we can trust Him to lead us in the right way. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. It doesn’t matter what storms life may bring us, we can face them all because God will be with us. God’s rod and staff correct us, guide us, and comfort us. A shepherd's rod or staff was his main instrument to guide and direct. "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows" In the presence of our enemies and even evil, we still find blessing and joy in the Lord. Our cup overflows with goodness and joy and God sustains us in the midst of trials and difficulties. "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever." The goodness of God will bless us all the days of our lives. We will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. As a result, we have extreme hope and purpose in this life and in the life to come. This anchor of the soul keeps us steadfast despite what life, enemies, sin, and trials may bring us. What can we learn from this beautiful Psalm? David took advantage of his free time and developed his gifts and abilities so later on God could use these for His kingdom and purposes. David learned key truths about God that would provide the foundation for his success and leadership qualities as he meditated on the Lord and His Word. So I should ask myself if I’m taking advantage of my free time to develop my skills for God or not? Am I developing my relationship with God during the desert times in my life so I can be more a more useful tool in the hands of God later on? Do I have the kind of relationship with God that allows Him to lead and correct me as well?

Newsletter Sign-Up Form for HolyLandSite.com Newsletter Sign-up It's a pleasure having you on our site! Holy Land Site 6945 Burnett St., SE Salem, OR, 97317-5202 541 603 0881 (U.S.A.) Email: holylandsite.com@gmail.com Newsletter Sign-up Subscribe Now Contact Form Name Email Message Success! Message received. Send

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

The biblical account of the calling of at least 6 of the 12 disciples occurred on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee because it was the area where most of the fishing was done, and the fishing towns were located. See the places and hear the story where Christ called some of the 12 disciples. Sites of interest include: Northern Shore of the Sea of Galilee, Gennesaret, Magdala, Tabgha, Capernaum, Bethsaida, Sea of Galilee, Filmed in Israel along the shore of the Sea of Galilee. Calling of the Disciples Photo Gallery Places of Interest Calling of the Disciples Introduction Welcome to the approximate location where Jesus called several of the disciples. This is a significant event from the Bible. These are the highlights. 1. Scripture says that Jesus called Peter, James, and John while they were washing their fishing nets. This would be done in a flat, gradual area. This location is one of the few on the Sea of Galilee where this could have been done. 2. This area is also where much of the fishing was done as it had springs of water flowing into the sea. 3. We also know that all of the disciples were from the Galilee area (Acts 1:11). 4. The area of Tabgha is also the traditional place where Jesus restored Peter after he had denied Jesus three times in Jerusalem, just before His crucifixion. Location The biblical account of the calling of at least 6 of the 12 disciples likely occurred on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee because it was the area where most of the fishing was done, and the fishing towns were located. Historical Background 1. While the Bible clearly mentions that 6 of the 12 disciples were from the Sea of Galilee, it is possible more were from this area as well. 2. Acts 1:11: At Christ's ascension into heaven, the angels said to the disciples standing there, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven?" While the text doesn’t specify the exact location, it does tell us that all the disciples were from the Galilee area. Places of Interest 1. Northern Shore of the Sea of Galilee 2. Most likely place several of the disciples were called 3. Gennesaret 4. Magdala 5. Tabgha 6. Capernaum 7. Bethsaida 8. Sea of Galilee Calling of the Disciples in the Bible 1. The biblical narrative suggests that Jesus had several contacts with some of the disciples before His final call on them to leave everything and follow Him. John 1:35–44: The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples, 36 and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God!" 37 The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. 38 Jesus turned and saw them following and said to them, "What are you seeking?" And they said to him, "Rabbi" (which means Teacher), "where are you staying?" 39 He said to them, "Come and you will see." So they came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. 40 One of the two who heard John speak and followed Jesus was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. 41 He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, "We have found the Messiah" (which means Christ). 42 He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, "So you are Simon the son of John? You shall be called Cephas" (which means Peter). 43 The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, "Follow me." 44 Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. 2. In the following passage, we see what appears to be a final contact with some of the disciples before Jesus’ last call on them to follow Him in full-time ministry. Luke 5:1–11: On one occasion, while the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, 2 and he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. 3 Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon's, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. 4 And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch." 5 And Simon answered, "Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets." 6 And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish , and their nets were breaking. 7 They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. 8 But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord." 9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken, 10 and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men." 11 And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him. 3. The calling of Matthew, the tax collector. Matthew 9:9: As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, "Follow me." And he rose and followed him.” From Matthew 9:1 we see that the calling of Matthew was close to Capernaum which is on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Faith Lesson from the Calling of the Disciples 1. When God calls us to salvation, or a certain calling or task, sometimes this might involve a process and have several confirmations. Are you genuinely saved, or is there some special calling you are sensing from the Lord? 2. God wants our full devotion and obedience. He doesn’t want us to add Him onto our lives and make Him an accessory that we go to just when we need help. God refuses to be an ATM. Do I follow Jesus for His blessings only, or am I willing to deny myself and suffer for Him as well? 3. God calls us to be His disciples and devote our entire life to Him. Luke 14:25–33: Now great crowds accompanied him, and he turned and said to them, 26 "If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. 27 Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. 33 So, therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple. 4. Am I willing to love Christ and follow Him regardless of the cost? 5. Compared to my love for Christ, all other relationships should fade. The contrast here is that compared to my love for Christ, all other relationships would be like hate. Do all my relationships appear as hate in comparison to my love for Christ? 6. Christ said that there would be a great falling away from the faith in the last days, and there would be many false teachers. Unfortunately, in many churches today, a soft version of the gospel is proclaimed. They neglect to emphasize repentance, the judgments of God, the true cost of discipleship, service, and sacrifice. Instead, there is an overemphasis on the blessings of God and how He exists to serve our needs and make us happy rather than us serving Him and finding true joy in our devotion to Him. This soft gospel will likely lead to the great apostasy mentioned in Scripture. 7. Am I growing deeper in my knowledge of God’s Word so I don’t fall into the many traps that will lead to the great apostasy of the last days?