Gilgal became a central meeting place throughout the rest of the Old Testament and appears to have been a small city or community. Camp Gilgal is the first place the Israelites camped after crossing the Jordan River and entering the Promised Land. At Camp Gilgal, Joshua erected 12 stones taken from the Jordan River as a monument of remembrance. Camp Gilgal was the first place the Israelites celebrated the Passover after entering the Promised Land. Gilgal Photo Gallery Places of Interest Gilgal Location There are two locations for Gilgal. 1. Tel Gilgal is situated in the Jordan Valley plain at the place of the modern city of Gilgal, which is located about 8 miles (12 km.) north of Jericho on Hwy. 90. 2. Camp Gilgal is located on the eastern edge of Jericho on Hwy. 90. Historical Background 1. The late Professor Adam Zertal (University of Haifa), did much research on the biblical location of Gilgal and discovered that it’s possible it wasn’t necessarily a specific location but a common name for a camp or religious site in its early period. 2. In Zertal’s research, he discovered 5 potential sites where the Israelites could have camped after crossing the Jordan into the Promised Land. Each place is uniquely shaped like a human right footprint. This is likely attributed to the promise given to them in Deuteronomy 11:24: Every place on which the sole of your foot treads shall be yours; your border will be from the wilderness to Lebanon, and from the river, the river Euphrates, as far as the western sea. 3. Joshua 4:19, places Gilgal on the eastern edge of Jericho: Now the people came up from the Jordan on the tenth of the first month and camped at Gilgal on the eastern edge of Jericho . The place of Tel Gilgal (modern-day Gilgal) doesn’t seem to fit the qualifications found in Joshua 4:19. 4. If Zertal’s claims are true, then it’s possible Tel Gilgal (located at modern Gilgal) was the more permanent Gilgal that is referred to 35 times in Scripture, and the place on the eastern edge of Jericho was a temporary place where the Israelites camped. This seems reasonable as there are no remains of a permanent city on the eastern edge of Jericho. 5. Tel Gilgal became a central meeting place throughout the rest of the Old Testament and appears to have been a small city. Places of Interest 1. Tel Gilgal 2. Tower 3. Heel part of the footprint shape of Tel Gilgal. 4. Center part of the footprint shape of Tel Gilgal. 5. Tabernacle 6. 12 Stone Monument (it appears it was moved from Camp Gilgal to Tel Gilgal as a permanent monument at a later date). 7. Altar 8. Toe part of the footprint shape of Tel Gilgal. 9. Modern Gilgal 10. Jericho 11. Jordan River 12. Camp Gilgal on the eastern edge of Jericho. Gilgal in the Bible 1. Camp Gilgal is the first place the Israelites camped after crossing the Jordan River and entering the Promised Land. Joshua 4:19: Now the people came up from the Jordan on the tenth of the first month and camped at Gilgal on the eastern edge of Jericho. 2. At Camp Gilgal, Joshua erected 12 stones taken from the Jordan River as a monument of remembrance. Joshua 4:18–20: It came about when the priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord had come up from the middle of the Jordan, and the soles of the priests’ feet were lifted up to the dry ground, that the waters of the Jordan returned to their place, and went over all its banks as before. 19 Now the people came up from the Jordan on the tenth of the first month and camped at Gilgal on the eastern edge of Jericho. 20 Those twelve stones which they had taken from the Jordan, Joshua set up at Gilgal. 21 He said to the sons of Israel, “When your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying, ‘What are these stones?’ 22 then you shall inform your children, saying, ‘Israel crossed this Jordan on dry ground.’ 23 For the Lord your God dried up the waters of the Jordan before you until you had crossed, just as the Lord your God had done to the Red Sea, which He dried up before us until we had crossed; 24 that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the Lord is mighty, so that you may fear the Lord your God forever.” 3. Camp Gilgal was the first place the Israelites celebrated the Passover after entering the Promised Land. Joshua 5:10: While the sons of Israel camped at Gilgal , they observed the Passover on the evening of the fourteenth day of the month on the desert plains of Jericho. 4. It was at Gilgal that the Gibeonites tricked the Israelites into making a covenant with them so they wouldn’t be destroyed. Joshua 9:3–6: When the inhabitants of Gibeon heard what Joshua had done to Jericho and to Ai, 4 they also acted craftily and set out as envoys, and took worn-out sacks on their donkeys, and wineskins worn-out and torn and mended, 5 and worn-out and patched sandals on their feet, and worn-out clothes on themselves; and all the bread of their provision was dry and had become crumbled. 6 They went to Joshua to the camp at Gilgal and said to him and to the men of Israel, “We have come from a far country; now, therefore, make a covenant with us.” 5. Gilgal was the place from which Caleb, one of the two faithful spies Moses sent to spy out the Promised Land, asked Joshua for his portion of the land. Joshua 14:6–9: Then the sons of Judah drew near to Joshua in Gilgal , and Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite said to him, “You know the word which the Lord spoke to Moses the man of God concerning you and me in Kadesh-barnea. 7 I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the Lord sent me from Kadesh-barnea to spy out the land, and I brought word back to him as it was in my heart. 8 Nevertheless, my brethren who went up with me made the heart of the people melt with fear; but I followed the Lord my God fully.” 9 So Moses swore on that day, saying, “Surely the land on which your foot has trodden will be an inheritance to you and to your children forever, because you have followed the Lord my God fully.” Joshua 14:13: So Joshua blessed him and gave Hebron to Caleb the son of Jephunneh for an inheritance. 6. The Prophet Samuel visited and taught the Word of God regularly at Tel Gilgal. 1 Samuel 7:15–16: Now Samuel judged Israel all the days of his life. 16 He used to go annually on circuit to Bethel and Gilgal and Mizpah, and he judged Israel in all these places. 7. Saul, the first king of Israel, was made king at Tel Gilgal. 1 Samuel 11:14–15: Then Samuel said to the people, “Come and let us go to Gilgal and renew the kingdom there.” 15 So all the people went to Gilgal , and there they made Saul king before the Lord in Gilgal . There they also offered sacrifices of peace offerings before the Lord; and there Saul and all the men of Israel rejoiced greatly. 8. Tel Gilgal was a central gathering place for the Israelites. 1 Samuel 13:4: All Israel heard the news that Saul had smitten the garrison of the Philistines, and also that Israel had become odious to the Philistines. The people were then summoned to Saul at Gilgal . 9. King Saul’s reign over Israel came to an end at Tel Gilgal because of his disobedience. 1 Samuel 13:8–14: Now he waited seven days, according to the appointed time set by Samuel, but Samuel did not come to Gilgal ; and the people were scattering from him. 9 So Saul said, “Bring to me the burnt offering and the peace offerings.” And he offered the burnt offering. 10 As soon as he finished offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came; and Saul went out to meet him and to greet him. 11 But Samuel said, “What have you done?” And Saul said, “Because I saw that the people were scattering from me, and that you did not come within the appointed days, and that the Philistines were assembling at Michmash, 12 therefore I said, ‘Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not asked the favor of the Lord.’ So I forced myself and offered the burnt offering.” 13 Samuel said to Saul, “You have acted foolishly; you have not kept the commandment of the Lord your God, which He commanded you, for now the Lord would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. 14 But now your kingdom shall not endure. The Lord has sought out for Himself a man after His own heart, and the Lord has appointed him as ruler over His people, because you have not kept what the Lord commanded you.” 10. God pronounced judgment upon Israel at Tel Gilgal because of their disobedience to Him. Hosea 9:15: All their evil is at Gilgal ; Indeed, I came to hate them there! Because of the wickedness of their deeds I will drive them out of My house! I will love them no more; all their princes are rebels. Amos 5:4–6: For thus says the Lord to the house of Israel, “Seek Me that you may live. 5 But do not resort to Bethel and do not come to Gilgal , nor cross over to Beersheba; for Gilgal will certainly go into captivity and Bethel will come to trouble.” Faith Lesson from Gilgal 1. Like the Israelites who took 12 stones out of the Jordan River to mark the fulfillment of God’s miracle in bringing them into the Promised Land, we too should set up remembrances to help us remember what God has done in our lives. 2. Like Caleb, who was faithful in trusting God, we should emulate his faith and strength. 3. Unlike Joshua, who failed to pray and seek the Lord regarding the trickery of the Gibeonites, we should bring our cares and decisions to the Lord. 4. We should heed the warnings from the life of King Saul, who presumed upon God’s grace and disobeyed the Lord regularly. 5. Lastly, we should not be like the Israelites, who slowly turned away from the Lord and were disciplined by God.

The history of the gates of Jerusalem plays a key role in understanding all God has done throughout its history. See each time period with maps, videos, talks, descriptions, and more. History of the Gates of Jerusalem Photo Gallery Places of Interest History of the Gates of Jerusalem There are eight gates around Old City Jerusalem. Seven are open, and one is closed (Eastern Gate). We'll look at these gates in a clockwise (right to left) circle, starting at the Jaffa Gate. Overview The Old City of Jerusalem covers about one square mile (2.6 square kilometers). The gates are the portals or entry passages into the city. The number of gates has varied over time. Until the Crusader Period (1099–1291), there were just four gates, one on each side of the city. Jaffa Gate (West) Damascus Gate (North) Eastern Gate (East) Zion Gate (South) From 1535 to 1542, the Ottoman ruler Suleiman the Magnificent restored and rebuilt the crumbling Old City walls to protect the city from a feared Crusader invasion. In addition to restoring many of the gates, Suleiman rebuilt two destroyed gates from previous years: Dung Gate Lions' Gate Herod's Gate Suleiman reclosed the Eastern Gate in 1541 AD. In modern times (1875-1889), two additional gates were opened into the city walls. Herod's Gate - Reopened in 1875 New Gate - 1889 Each gate has openings in the wall above it that enable the release of “weapons” such as boiling liquids, arrows, or stones aimed at the attackers below. The Bible records various uses of city gates. At the gates, people finalized business deals (Genesis 23), arranged marriages (Ruth 4), and settled disputes in the presence of witnesses (Amos 5). The king used gates to address his subjects (2 Samuel 18). Many of the gates are named after the location or destination they led toward. A number of the gates are shaped like an "L," designed to slow attackers attempting to enter the city. Jaffa Gate The Jaffa Gate is named so because the road leading from this gate heads westward to the port city of Jaffa, or Joppa. The gate as it stands today was rebuilt in 1538 by the Ottoman sultan Suleiman the Great over the previous gate, which dates back to the time of the Hasmoneans around 140 BC. Facing due west, the Jaffa Gate is the best-known and busiest of the gates of Jerusalem. It is the only gate on the western side of the Old City. Today, it is the primary vehicle entry point into the Old City and one of only two gates in Jerusalem that allow vehicle access. When the German Kaiser Wilhelm II visited the Holy Land and Jerusalem in 1898, the Ottoman authorities opened the city wall beside Jaffa Gate so the Kaiser (emperor) could enter with his vehicle escorts. They also filled in the moat that surround the Tower of David complex. In 1917, British general Edmund Allenby entered the Old City through the Jaffa Gate, giving a speech at the nearby Tower of David. Allenby entered the city on foot in a show of respect for the city and a desire to avoid comparison with the Kaiser's entry in 1898. There are many bullet holes in the face of the gate due to wars before and during the Six-Day War in 1967. New Gate It's one of Jerusalem's newer gates. It was built in 1889 with the permission of the Turkish Sultan Abdul Hammid II, who gave it the alternative name The Gate of Hammid. The New Gate is in the northwest corner of the city. It is the only gate in Jerusalem that leads directly into the Christian Quarter. The Gate was built to allow easy access from the many Christian monasteries outside the walls to the Christian Quarter within. The New Gate is the simplest and least adorned of the gates of Jerusalem. Damascus Gate It's located on the northern side of the Old City walls, facing due north to Shechem and beyond to Damascus. The Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent completed the Damascus Gate between 1537 and 1542. It was built over previous gate ruins dating back to the time of Roman Emperor Hadrian, around 135 AD. It is the busiest of Jerusalem's gates, and many claim the most splendid. On Fridays and Saturdays, markets and bazaars make this one of the busiest parts of the city. Directly inside the gate is the Muslim Quarter, which serves as the Old City's Arab business center. During the Byzantine period (324 - 638 AD), it was known as St. Stephen's Gate (although the Lions' Gate is also known as such). Christian tradition claims Stephen was drug out of the city through this gate and stoned on the other side of today's road, becoming the first martyr. Of the two gates of Jerusalem, also named St. Stephen's Gate, this is the most likely sight of Stephen's stoning. The gate is one of the highest in the city because the northern part of the city was the most vulnerable to attacks due to the slope of the terrain. It was built in a double "L" shape to slow down would-be attackers. It was the beginning point of the Cardo Street, which the Roman Emperor Hadrian built around 135 AD. Part of the original gate Hadrian built can be seen to the left and below the newer gate. Ruins from previous gates can also be seen here. The gate Hadrian built was magnificent, with three arches. Arabs mainly use the gate today. Herod's Gate It bears this name because it was once believed to have led to a structure erroneously identified by Christians as Herod Antipas' Palace. The Jewish and Muslim communities know the gate as the Flower Gate, which derives from the floral designs in its architecture. It is located in the northern wall, to the east of the Damascus Gate. Herod's Gate leads into the Muslim Quarter, which provides Muslims with direct access to the Temple Mount. The gate as it stands today was built in 1875. Making it the newest gate of the city. Its main purpose before 1875 was to relieve traffic flow in the city's northern part. It was built with an internal L-shaped structure, like many of the other gates of Jerusalem. The Crusaders broke through the wall in this area to capture the city. Eastern Gate (Golden Gate) Perhaps the most intriguing of the gates of Jerusalem faces east toward the rising sun. East was the direction the Jewish Temple faced and opened up to. The gate was located along Jerusalem's eastern walls, facing east towards the Kidron Valley and Mount of Olives. It is the closest gate to the Temple Mount and, as such, has taken on special significance throughout Jerusalem's history. The Golden Gate is the oldest in Jerusalem, and scholars and archaeologists debate its exact timeline. Ancient stones at the base of the wall strongly suggest it dates back to the time of Solomon or Hezekiah (950-700 BC). It contains many biblical prophecies concerning the Messiah's entrance through it. Many of which have already been fulfilled. The Muslims established a cemetery in front of it, thinking this would stop the Messiah from entering through it in the future. Lions' Gate It is the eastern entrance to the Old City of Jerusalem. Like many of Jerusalem's gates, it was built by the Ottomans in 1538-39 AD along the same stretch of walls as the Golden Gate. The Lion's Gate faces the Kidron Valley and Mount of Olives. The gate was originally built with an L-shaped structure, similar to the other Ottoman gates of Jerusalem. However, this L-shaped structure was later altered to allow vehicle access. The gate was also named St. Stephen's Gate, though the Damascus Gate is the likeliest site of Stephen's martyrdom. Four lions decorate the gate's facade, lending the gate its name. These lions were said to have been built by Suleiman under the influence of a dream. The legend goes that Suleiman desired to punish the Jews of Jerusalem. However, he had a dream in which lions devoured him, thus swaying his mind. Instead, he built the Lion's Gate, adding the lions to commemorate the occasion. Dung Gate Of all the gates of Jerusalem, the Dung Gate has unquestionably the most interesting name, and for obvious reasons. It is the smallest, possessing the lowest archway, and is built into the south walls. Like most of Jerusalem's other gates, the present gate was built by Suleiman around 1538 AD. The Dung Gate only allowed foot traffic until 1967, when the opening was enlarged. The Dung Gate derives its name from the fact that refuse and ash were escorted out of the city through this gate and dumped in the Hinnom Valley. It was a gate for trash from not only the Old City but also the Temple Mount. To the west of the gate, part of the original Cardo Minor Roman Emperor Hadrian, built in 135 AD, can be seen. It is the only gate without much defense abilities. This was so because of its location. Today, it's the closest and most used gate to the Western Wall. Tanners' Gate It's not included as one of the main eight gates of Old City Jerusalem. It was a small side entrance a short distance west of the Dung Gate. It's directly over the Cardo Minor Roman Emperor Hadrian, built in 135 AD. It was used to access animal purchases for sacrifices at the temple. It was named the "Tanners' Gate" because of those who tanned the hides of the animals slaughtered for temple sacrifices. Zion Gate This gate faces south and is located along the southwestern walls of the Old City. It is named such because it faces Mount Zion and provides access to It. The gate was rebuilt over previous ones by Suleiman the Magnificent in 1540. It is one of the gates of Jerusalem that lead into the Jewish Quarter of the Old City. Walls near the Zion Gate date from the Hasmonean and Herodian periods of the history of Jerusalem. Like the previously mentioned gates of Jerusalem, the Zion Gate was built with an L-shaped internal structure. One window on each side of the gate lent its distinguishable characteristic. It can support both foot and vehicle traffic. However, vehicles can only exit through the gate, not enter. It has many bullet holes and damage from the 1947 and 1967 wars fought in this area. Other Notable Sites of Old City Jerusalem's Walls Zedekiah's Cave The entrance to Zedekiah's Cave is just beneath the Old City wall, between the Damascus and Herod Gates. It's on the north side of Old City Jerusalem, just outside its walls. Only the cave's mouth is natural. The interior was carved over several thousand years. Zedekiah’s Cave is a 5-acre (2 hectares) underground limestone quarry that stretches under five city blocks of the Muslim Quarter of Old City Jerusalem. It was carved over several thousand years and is a remnant of the largest quarry in Jerusalem. Solomon very likely used this quarry to construct the temple and temple mount platform he built. Herod the Great likely used the main quarry at Zedekiah's Cave as building blocks to renovate the temple and its retaining walls. Stones from the quarry may also have been used for Herod Agrippa I's building projects. The cave was also said to have been King Zedekiah's hiding place when the Babylonians came to siege Jerusalem. Archaeology by the Bethesda Pools Recent discoveries outside the current walls by the pools of Bethesda strongly suggest they were outside the city walls during the time of Christ. Curious Bend in the Eastern Wall This bend marks where the Hasmoneans added onto the Temple Mount Platform around 140 BC. Seam in the Eastern Wall This marks where King Herod added onto the Temple Mount Platform around 19 BC. Southern Stairs The Southern Stairs were one of the main entrances from the south to the Temple Mount during Christ's time. Two main gate entrances led from these stairs up to the Temple Mount Platform. These gates are commonly known as the Hulda Gates. The gate for entering the Temple Mount Platform was on the right (east side), and the gate for leaving the Temple Mount was on the left (western side). King Herod had them redone and staggered them so no one could enter or depart the presence of God (signified by entering or departing the temple area) without being thoughtful in the process. They were the main access to the temple from the City of David and the city's western area, where most of the population lived. There were also many purification mikvehs at the base of the Southern Stairs (around 48 in total). The Southern Stairs were also called “The Rabbis’ Stairs” or the “Teaching Stairs” as rabbis taught their disciples on them. Jesus would have no doubt walked on these stairs and taught His disciples here. It’s also likely that the young Apostle Paul sat here under Gamaliel's teaching (Acts 22:3). It’s very likely that part of Pentecost took place here or ended up here. The Royal Stoa was located just above us on the southern end of the Temple Mount. It was a huge covered portico that ran the whole length of the Temple Mount at the southern part. We don't have time to discuss all the reasons now, but the Hebrew word for house means the House, referring to the temple or a covered structure. It doesn't really refer to a home. So just think that you are in the area where Pentecost took place. And, of course, around here are all these Mikvehs where the 3,000 who received Christ on Pentecost would be baptized. Pilate's Palace Judgment Seat This is the most likely place where Jesus was tried and condemned to crucifixion by Pilate. It has all the archaeological evidence to verify this event. Gate Entrance to Pilate’s Palace from Outside the Palace Steps Leading Up to the Gate Entrance to Pilate's Palace Preserved Wall of Herod the Great Preserved Stone Pavement Bema Seat – Judgment Seat Bema Seat Stone

Filmed on location in Jerusalem. Learn all the details and timeline of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Christ Church of the Holy Sepulchre Photo Gallery Garden Tomb Photo Gallery Places of Interest Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Christ Location 1. We filmed our video about the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ at Gordan’s Garden Tomb, as it provides a good setting for the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. 2. The Garden Tomb is located just 250 yards (220 m.) to the north of the Damascus Gate of Old City Jerusalem. 3. The traditional location of Golgotha is at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which has overwhelming evidence as the authentic site. Historical Background 1. The property of the Garden Tomb was purchased in 1894 by The Garden Tomb Association. 2. It is a Charitable Trust based in the United Kingdom and is made up of people from many different denominations and national backgrounds. 3. Their passion is to help people understand all Christ did for them on the Cross. 4. The site is maintained by volunteers that come from around the globe and join a team of local Palestinians and Israelis. Places of Interest 1. Garden Tomb. A cave-like tomb that can be entered. It has a channel at the entrance where a stone could be rolled to cover and uncover the tomb. 2. A rock face cliff that has the form of a skull which is believed to be Golgotha. 3. Damascus Gate 4. Old City Jerusalem 5. Church of the Holy Sepulchre Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Christ in the Bible 1. At 3:00 pm, Friday afternoon, Jesus dies. This happened at the exact time the sacrificial lamb for the Passover was to be killed. Matthew 27:45–53: Now from the sixth hour [12:00 pm] there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour [3:00 pm]. 46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" that is, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" 47 And some of the bystanders, hearing it, said, "This man is calling Elijah." 48 And one of them at once ran and took a sponge, filled it with sour wine, and put it on a reed and gave it to him to drink. 49 But the others said, "Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to save him." 50 And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit. 51 And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And the earth shook, and the rocks were split. 52 The tombs also were opened. And many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised, 53 and coming out of the tombs after his resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many. 2. Jesus’ body is taken down from the cross and placed in a tomb. John 19:41–42: Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. 42 So because of the Jewish day of Preparation, since the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there. 3. Jesus’ body was given to Joseph of Arimathea, prepared for burial, and placed in Joseph’s own tomb. Matthew 27:57–61: As evening approached, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who had himself become a disciple of Jesus. 58 Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus' body, and Pilate ordered that it be given to him. 59 Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away. 61 Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb. 4. The Tomb of Jesus is sealed and secured by the Romans. Matthew 27:62–66: The next day, the one after Preparation Day, the chief priests and the Pharisees went to Pilate. 63 "Sir," they said, "we remember that while he was still alive that deceiver said, 'After three days I will rise again.' 64 So give the order for the tomb to be made secure until the third day. Otherwise, his disciples may come and steal the body and tell the people that he has been raised from the dead. This last deception will be worse than the first." Pilate said to them, "You have a guard of soldiers. Go, make it as secure as you can." 66 So they went and made the tomb secure by sealing the stone and setting a guard. 5. On Sunday morning, very early, Jesus rose from the dead. Matthew 28:1–10: After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. 2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. 5 The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you." 8 So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. "Greetings," he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me." 6. Mary Magdalene is our example of what it means to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. 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. 7. The Roman soldiers report to the chief priests. Matthew 28:11–15: While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. 12 When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, 13 telling them, “You are to say, 'His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep. 14 If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.’” 15 So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day. 8. The disciples respond in unbelief to the report from the women that Christ had risen from the dead. Luke 24:9–12: When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. 10 It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. 11 But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. 9. Jesus appears to the disciples. Luke 24:36–47: While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you." 37 They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. 38 He said to them, "Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? 39 Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have." 40 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet. 41 And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them, "Do you have anything here to eat?" 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate it in their presence. 44 He said to them, "This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms." 45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, "This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” 10. Christ appeared to many others after His resurrection. 1 Corinthians 15:3–8: For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me [Apostle Paul]. Faith Lesson 1. The death, burial, and resurrection of Christ are true historical events that form the foundation to the Christian Faith. 2. Without Christ’s death on the Cross, our sins are not forgiven. 3. Without Christ’s resurrection, our faith is in vain (1 Cor. 15:14). 4. No other self-acclaimed prophet has risen from the dead. The fact that Christ did separates Him from all others, proving that He was God in the flesh. 5. The resurrection proves that all believers will receive resurrected bodies after death. 6. Mary Magdalene encapsulates what it means to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. Do we love the Lord as Mary did?

The Garden Tomb in Jerusalem: This is a place that has an ancient tomb and rock face that looks like a skull. Some believe it's the site of Golgotha. Gordon's Garden Tomb Lecture by Archaeologist Gabriel Barkay (details about the Garden Tomb start at the 37:00 mark of the video) This lecture is from 2009. Since then, the walls of Jerusalem have been identified. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre was clearly outside the city walls during the time of Jesus. Photo Gallery Places of Interest Garden Tomb Location 1. Gordan’s Garden Tomb is located just 250 yards (220 m.) to the north of the Damascus Gate of Old City Jerusalem. 2. The evidence is overwhelming that the Garden Tomb is not the authentic site of Golgotha. However, it does provide a serene setting in a garden-like place where many go to meditate and reflect upon the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. 3. Some consider it the location of Golgotha, but again, the evidence clearly points to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre as the true site (see below for why). Historical Background of the Garden Tomb 1. The property of the Garden Tomb was purchased in 1894 by The Garden Tomb Association. 2. It is a Charitable Trust based in the United Kingdom and comprises people from many different denominations and national backgrounds. 3. Their passion is to help people understand all Christ did for them on the Cross. 4. The site is maintained by volunteers who come from around the globe and join a team of local Arabs and Israelis. Places of Interest 1. Garden Tomb ~ The tomb is from around 800-700 BC. It is an Old Testament tomb in the area of an Old Testament graveyard. It is not from the time period of Christ. 2. Rock-cut Channel ~ At the entrance of the tomb is a rock-cut channel that appears to be where a stone could be rolled to cover and uncover the tomb. However, the channel is not from the time of Jesus. Archaeological and historical evidence shows that the channel was cut during the Crusader period, most likely between 1100 and 1200 AD. 3. Rock-face Cliff ~ In the area of the Garden Tomb is a rock-cut cliff that has the faint appearance of a human skull. Today, is very difficult to see the face, but older photos show it more clearly. This shape has been given as evidence for the Garden Tomb as being the place of Golgotha. However, over the past 50 or so years, its look has undergone dramatic changes. In fact, it now bears hardly any resemblance to the look of a skull. That's why the Garden Tomb has a photo of it posted for all to see. Imagine how this shape has likely changed over the past 2,000 or so years, with all the wars, rain, erosion, and other natural forces that have affected it. As mentioned, today, it hardly resembles a skull. When Scripture mentions this site, it doesn't necessarily refer to a natural shape, but is more likely to refer to a place where crucifixions took place. Therefore, the natural formation at the Garden Tomb is weak evidence and shouldn't be a major factor in determining the true site of Golgotha. This shape could have looked entirely different during Jesus' time. 3. Damascus Gate 4. Old City Jerusalem 5. Church of the Holy Sepulchre Evidence for Why the Garden Tomb is Not the Authentic Site of Golgotha After extensive research, we have come to a firm conviction that the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the true site of Golgotha. While we understand that some may disagree, here is the evidence that supports our conclusion. 1. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre was outside the Old City Walls of Jerusalem during the time of Christ. While the staff at the Garden Tomb are gracious, they lead you to believe that the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was located within the Old City Walls of Jerusalem during the time of Christ, making it unlikely to be the site of Golgotha. This is false. The wall that now encompasses the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was added about 10 years after Christ. Historical records, archaeology, and eyewitness accounts all reveal this as factual. This later wall was incorporated into the city shortly after the time of Christ by Herod Agrippa (AD 41-44). This is also supported by records of Flavius Josephus, a 1st-century Roman historian. Many eyewitness accounts and writings (Origen, Melito of Sardis, Eusebius, and Jerome) clearly affirm the Church of the Holy Sepulchre as the location of Golgotha (we will elaborate on this further below). 2. The Garden Tomb is an Old Testament tomb, not a new tomb from the 1st century (time of Christ), as described in the Gospels. Scripture clearly states that Jesus was laid in a new tomb. "And Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and laid it in his own new tomb , which he had cut out in the rock" Matthew 27:59-60). The problem with the Garden Tomb is that it's situated within an 8th-century BC grave complex. It follows all of the known patterns of 8th-century BC tombs and breaks all the patterns of known 1st-century tombs. In short, it’s from the wrong era to be Christ’s tomb. This determination is based on the plan and characteristics of its rooms, the type of chisels used to excavate the tomb, the artifacts found inside, and other relevant factors. Thus, it does not qualify as a "new tomb" of the first century. 3. Scripture clearly teaches that one had to bend over or stoop down to see and enter Jesus' tomb. So Peter and the other disciple left, and they were going to the tomb. The two were running together; and the other disciple ran ahead, faster than Peter, and came to the tomb first; and he stooped [NASB, ESV, NKJV] bent over [NIV, KJV] to look in, and saw the linen wrappings lying there; however he did not go in (John 20:3-6). The problem with the Garden Tomb is that you walk up to it and enter. You don't stoop down or bend over to enter or see it. 4. Golgotha was near Old City Jerusalem Scripture states in John 19:20 that the place of crucifixion was near the city of Jerusalem, so this place fits the biblical narrative well: Therefore many of the Jews read this inscription, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, Latin and in Greek. The Garden Tomb would have been much farther away than the location of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. 5. During the time of Christ, there was a gate to Jerusalem called the Gennath Gate, which means Garden Gate. This gate was discovered recently. It is in a slightly different location than the Jerusalem model, which was built before the gate was discovered. Josephus also mentions this gate in his historical writings. There was a road that passed by the stone quarry, serving as a route for travelers entering and leaving Jerusalem. Because the quarry had fallen out of use many years before Christ, it gradually developed into a garden, with a cistern and pool of water nearby. Some of the rock was left, and the Romans crucified people upon it. This rock can be seen in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre today. It was an ideal place because it was just outside the city and located on a well-traveled road. The Romans crucified people in the most visible places possible so all would learn what would happen to them if they disobeyed Roman laws. There were also tombs in the rock faces that were used for burials. Substantial remains of the First Wall have been found in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. In these latter excavations, the remains of the Gennath (Garden) Gate and the beginning of what is believed to be the Second Wall have been found, just where Josephus described them as being (cf. War 5.146). The name "Garden Gate" indicates that a garden must have been located nearby. However, this garden wasn't like a flower garden; it was a farming garden for raising crops. Excavations below the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer reveal that this area was once an ancient quarry, which was later abandoned. A layer of new farming soil has been discovered under the Church of the Redeemer, indicating that it was once a garden area. The excavators believe that the area was filled with fertile soil, presumably to transform the unsightly quarry remains into a small farming garden. An additional area near the rock quarry was converted into a cistern as the city expanded. From the Gospels, we know that Jesus was crucified in a place called "Calvary" and buried in a garden that was in the same place as Joseph of Arimathea's tomb. The front wall of the tomb faced east, allowing the early morning sun to illuminate it. According to Hebrews 13:12, Jesus was crucified outside the city. Some people have a problem with the proximity of the place where Jesus was crucified and his tomb in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. However, John 19:41 states, "Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid." So, Scripture clearly indicates that the crucifixion and the tomb were close to each other. 6. The burial tomb at the Garden Tomb has a channel where a large round rock was rolled to cover the tomb. These kinds of tombs were only used by people of royalty. Those who could afford burial cave tombs had smaller square-like stones to cover the tombs. 7. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre has 2,000 years of continual historical, archaeological, and eyewitness history confirming it as the site of Golgotha. The Garden Tomb has no such history. Historical Background of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre 1. 1000 ~ 400 BC The place of Calvary was once a stone quarry that supplied stone for the building of the temple and so forth. 2. 4 BC ~ 33 AD During Christ's time, there was a gate to Jerusalem called the Gennath Gate, which means garden gate. This gate was discovered recently. It is in a slightly different location than the Jerusalem Model located at the Israel Museum, which was built before the gate was discovered. Josephus also mentions this gate in his historical writings. There was a road that passed by the stone quarry, serving as a route for travelers entering and leaving Jerusalem. Because the quarry had fallen out of use many years before Christ, it gradually developed into a garden, with a nearby cistern and pool of water. Some of the rock was left, and the Romans crucified people upon it. This rock can be seen in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre today. It was an ideal place because it was just outside the city and located on a well-traveled road. The Romans crucified people in the most visible places possible so all would learn what would happen to them if they disobeyed Roman laws. There were also tombs in the rock faces that were used for burials. Scripture states in John 19:20 that the place of crucifixion was near the city of Jerusalem, so this place fits the biblical narrative well: Therefore, many of the Jews read this inscription, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, Latin, and in Greek. Substantial remains of the First Wall have been found in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. In these latter excavations, the remains of the Gennath (Garden) Gate and the beginning of what is believed to be the Second Wall have been found, just where Josephus described them as being (cf. War 5.146). The name "Garden Gate" indicates that a garden must have been located nearby. However, this garden wasn't like a flower garden; it was a farming garden for raising small crops. Excavations below the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer reveal that this area was once an ancient quarry, which was later abandoned. A layer of new farming soil has been discovered under the Church of the Redeemer, indicating that it was once a garden area. The excavators believe that the area was filled with fertile soil, presumably to transform the unsightly quarry remains into a small garden for farming. An additional area near the rock quarry was converted into a cistern as the city expanded. From the Gospels, we know that Jesus was crucified in a place called "Calvary" (also called Golgotha) and buried in a garden that was in the same place as Joseph of Arimathea's tomb. The front wall of the tomb faced east, allowing the early morning sun to illuminate it. According to Hebrews 13:12, Jesus was crucified outside the city. Some people have a problem with the proximity of the place where Jesus was crucified and his tomb in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. However, John 19:41 states, "Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid." So, Scripture clearly indicates that the crucifixion and the tomb were close to each other. 3. 33 ~ 135 AD According to historians Eusebius and Socrates Scholasticus, the Christian community of Jerusalem held worship services at the site from shortly after the resurrection of Jesus until 66 AD. Additionally, according to tradition, the early Christian community of Jerusalem venerated the site of the crucifixion from the time of the resurrection until 135 AD, when Emperor Hadrian destroyed and rebuilt Jerusalem. Visiting the burial sites of rabbis was a common practice that is still done to this day by the Jews. Therefore, it is clear that the early Christians would have visited the place where Christ died and rose again as well. No one was like Jesus, so His followers knew exactly where Golgotha was and venerated it. There is no way this spot would have been lost or forgotten by them. For example, shortly after the resurrection of Christ, the Upper Room was converted into a church, and the apse (which is a half-round circle with a dome shape) pointed toward the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection place of Christ (where the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located today). This provides significant evidence that this place was venerated and visited early on after Christ's resurrection. Because this place was so important, the apse of the Upper Room Church pointed toward it and not the temple. Another interesting fact is that the Church of the Holy Sepulchre also contains burial tombs that date back to the time of Christ. They are of the type that were used from about 37 BC to around 70 AD. These tombs clearly indicate that this area had tombs and was outside the City of Jerusalem during the time of Christ, as regular people were not buried within the city. Lastly, during this period, from the time of Christ to 132 AD, a carving with an ancient Latin description was found here. It says, "Yes, Lord! We will go." This shows that early Christians venerated this place. 4. 41 ~ 44 AD About 10 years after the crucifixion of Christ, a wall was built by King Agrippa I that enclosed the area of Christ's execution and burial within the city. This accounts for why the Holy Sepulchre is located inside the Old City walls of Jerusalem today. 5. 132 ~ 135 AD The next major event that affected the site of the crucifixion and tomb of Christ was a major Jewish rebellion against the Romans called the Bar Kokhba revolt around 132 AD. Due to the revolt, the Roman Emperor Hadrian destroyed much of Jerusalem and altered its orientation. He renamed the city Aelia Capitolina and the country to Palestine. Aelia is derived from the emperor’s family name, and Capitolina refers to the cult of the Capitoline Triad (Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva). Palestine is a derivative of the Philistines. Hadrian's intent was to erase any connection the Jews had to their homeland. He desired to erase the Jewish connection to the land because of the Jews' continual rebellions and uprisings. He constructed a main street that ran north and south, called the Cardo Maximus (meaning "hinge" or "center axis"). He also desecrated the place of the crucifixion and resurrection that had been venerated by early Christians, and in its place, he built a large platform that filled in the quarry and erected upon it a large temple. Hadrian erected a statue of the Roman god Jupiter (equivalent to Zeus) over the tomb of Jesus, and a statue of Venus (equivalent to Aphrodite) over the site of his crucifixion. Hadrian was so intent on destroying any connection to the land by the Jews and the Christians that he buried all the evidence of the crucifixion and tomb of Christ under a platform that housed his large temple to Jupiter and Venus. Hadrian laid out the new City of Jerusalem so that the major streets led to his temple to Jupiter and Venus, which again were over the remains of the crucifixion and tomb of Christ. Coins have been discovered that depict the image of the temple that Hadrian built to Venus. 6. 160 AD The most compelling, and indeed the earliest witness to the local memory of the site of Jesus’ death and burial, comes through the testimony of Melito of Sardis. Melito was a very important figure in the history of the church, as he was the first to compile the Christian Canon of the Old Testament. In fact, he is the one who coined the term “Old Testament.” Melito affirms that the location of Golgotha was where Hadrian built a temple to the false god Venus. It is important to note that between 160 and 450 AD, six historians wrote about the location of the crucifixion site, and all of them place this event either under or in the vicinity of Hadrian’s Temple to Jupiter and Venus. 7. 185 – 254 AD Origen of Alexandria is also an eyewitness to the location of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre as the site of Golgotha. 8. 260 ~ 339 AD Eusebius, the bishop of Caesarea , Israel, provided a chronological account of the development of Early Christianity from the 1st century to the 4th century. He was an eyewitness to some of the events Hadrian did and wrote down what he saw. Regarding the desecration of the crucifixion and tomb of Christ, Eusebius says: "The Romans brought a quantity of earth from a distance with much labor and covered the entire spot and buried it. Then having raised this to a moderate height, they paved it with stone." What he described was the raised platform Hadrian built, upon which he erected his temple to Jupiter and Venus. This platform had retaining walls around it, some of which can still be seen inside the Church today. Additionally, some of the stairs leading up to the Temple of Hadrian can still be seen today in the lower part of the church to the east. Eusebius goes on to say, "The monument of his most holy passions so long ago buried beneath the ground." Here, he is describing the place where the crucifixion and tomb of Christ were buried. Hadrian also minted a coin depicting the temple he built upon Golgotha. Eusebius describes the destruction of Hadrian's temple by Constantine: "As soon as his [Constantine's] commands were given, these engines of deceit were cast down from their proud eminence to very ground and the dwelling places of error with the statues and the evil spirits which they represented were overthrown and utterly destroyed. Nor did the Emperor's zeal stop here, but he gave further orders that the materials of what was thus destroyed, both stone and timber, should be removed and thrown as far from the spot as possible, and this command also was speedily executed." Eusebius continues: "The emperor, however, was not satisfied with having proceeded thus far; once more fired with holy adjure, he directed that the ground itself should be dug up to come to a considerable depth and the soil which had been polluted by the foul impurities of demon worship transported to a far distant place. This was also accomplished without delay, and as soon as the original surface of the ground beneath the covering of the earth appeared, immediately the venerable and Holy Monument of our Savior's resurrection was discovered. Then indeed did the most holy cave [referring to the tomb] present a faithful similitude of his return to life and that after lying buried in darkness, it again emerged to light and afforded to all who came to witness a sight a clear and visible proof of the wonders of which that spot had once been seen, a testimony to the resurrection of the Savior clearer than any voice could give." Eusebius then speaks about the Church of the Holy Sepulchre that Constantine built: "Accordingly, on the very spot which witnessed the Savior's suffering, a new Jerusalem was constructed where at the side opposite to the Sepulcher [Jesus's tomb] which was the eastern side, the church itself was erected, a noble work rising to a vast height and a great extent in length and breadth." Eusebius now describes the construction of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre by Constantine: "Thereupon the Emperor issued sacred edicts, and when he had provided an abundant supply of all the things required for the project, he gave orders that a House of Prayer worthy of God should be erected round about the cave of salvation [he is speaking about the tomb], and on a scale of rich and imperial costliness to be greater than anything else that had been built on earth." So Constantine built a large mausoleum over the tomb's location. A mausoleum is a structure designed for burial or entombment above the ground. The temple of Hadrian would remain in place for another 200 years or so until the time of the Roman Emperor Constantine. 9. 313 AD A major change happened in the Roman Empire when Constantine legalized Christianity. Later, because his mother was so passionate about Christ, she made a trip to the Holy Land to build churches over the main events of Christ’s life. She built the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, the Church of the Ascension on the Mount of Olives (currently known as the Pater Noster Church), the Church of the Annunciation in Nazareth, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The Roman Emperor Constantine had the Temple of Hadrian, erected to Jupiter and Venus, demolished to make way for the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. During the demolition process, the tomb and crucifixion site of Jesus were uncovered once again, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was subsequently erected. Additionally, Constantine's mother, Helena, is claimed to have discovered the relic of the Cross of Jesus at this time as well. The church was dedicated in 335 AD. The church was laid out in three sections: 1: Leading up from the Cardo was the church venerating the crucifixion site, also known as the Basilica of the Martyrium (taken from the word martyr). The apse of the church faced west. 2: The courtyard was called the triportico because it had three sides with covered walkways. Just outside the church, and before the mausoleum (with its rotunda dome), was an open courtyard. Just to the left was the crucifixion site of Christ. Now, I should mention that some believe the crucifixion site was located in the apse part of the Basilica of the Martyrium and not in the courtyard. However, the likelihood of the tomb's location and the crucifixion site being exactly aligned is unrealistic. It appears that the building was constructed in this manner for aesthetic reasons, rather than archaeological purposes. The remains of the rock of Golgotha are still preserved today and are located in the place where the courtyard once stood, not in the church itself, specifically in the apse area. 3: Just beyond the open courtyard was the large rotunda covering the tomb of Christ. This is also known as a mausoleum or anastasis. The tomb was initially carved out of the rock and preserved. You can see an example of this in Absalom's Monument in the Kidron Valley. The crypt, or cistern of the crosses, was under the Basilica of the Martyrium, venerating Golgotha. 10. 333 AD Another eyewitness account that the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was located on the site of the crucifixion and tomb of Christ comes from the Pilgrim of Bardot: "On your left is a little hill of Golgotha where the Lord was crucified, about a stone's throw from it is the Crypt where they laid his body and from where he rose again on the third day. These are present by order of Constantine. There has been built a basilica that is a church of wondrous beauty." 11. 347 ~ 420 AD Jerome established a monastery at Bethlehem and translated the Old and New Testaments from Hebrew to Latin. Bethlehem is very close to Jerusalem, so Jerome was an eyewitness to the events he wrote about. Here's what Jerome tells us: "From the time of Hadrian to the reign of Constantine, the spot which had witnessed the resurrection was occupied by a figure of Jupiter while on the rock where the cross had stood a marble statue of Venus was set up by the heathen and became an object of worship. The original persecutors indeed suppose that by polluting our holy places, they would deprive us of our faith in the passion and in the resurrection." So Jerome confirms that from the time of Hadrian to Constantine, the temple Hadrian built was located on top of Golgotha. So, in the place where Christ died for the sins of humanity, Hadrian set up a temple to false gods who promoted deep immoral sins. What a contrast. 12. 380 AD A quote from another pilgrim's account of a worship service in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre states that: "I know you were eager to know about the services they have daily in the holy places, I shall tell you about them. When the first cock has crowed, the bishop straightaway enters and goes into the tomb and the anastasis [anastasis means resurrection and is the round rotunda dome place in the church over the tomb of Christ] and the whole crowd streams into the Anastasis which is already ablaze with many lamps. Then the bishop standing inside the screen takes the gospel and advances to the door of the tomb, where he himself reads the account of the Lord's resurrection. When the gospel is finished, the bishop comes out and is taken with hymns to the cross, and they all go with him to the great church, the martyrium. The people assemble in the great church built by Constantine upon Golgotha." 13. 400 AD Another amazing piece of evidence is found at the Basilica of Santa Pudenziana, which is recognized as the oldest place of Christian worship in Rome. In the apse of the building is a mosaic of Christ with the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the background. So, we actually have an image of what Constantine's Church of the Holy Sepulchre looked like. This is strong evidence of the church's authenticity. 14. 550 AD In addition, more substantial evidence supporting the Church of the Holy Sepulchre as the true site of Golgotha is found in Madaba, Jordan. The Madaba Mosaic Map is part of a floor mosaic in the early Byzantine church of St. George in Madaba, Jordan. The map is of the Middle East, and part of it shows the oldest surviving original depiction of the Holy Land and Jerusalem. On the map of Jerusalem, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located in the center of the city. This reveals that the church existed and was venerated as the site of Jesus' death and resurrection by this time. 15. 614 ~ 638 AD The next significant change to the church occurred during the Persian conquest in , when it was pillaged and suffered significant damage. However, the monk Modestus restored it. According to tradition, the relic of the True Cross was also taken during this time and then recovered in 630 AD. In 638 AD, Jerusalem came under Muslim rule, but Christians could still make pilgrimages to the church. 16. 1009 AD The Muslim Caliph al-Hakim ordered all churches to be destroyed. This proved fatal for the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which was singled out in particular and destroyed beyond recognition. During the destruction of the church, the tomb of Christ was largely destroyed. However, some of the rock of the tomb and its location were still preserved. 17. 1048 AD The Emperor Constantine IX Monomachos and Patriarch Nicephorus of Constantinople again restored the church at great expense. 18. 1112 ~ 1187 AD The Crusaders renovated the church in 1112 AD and reconsecrated it in 1149 AD. Much of what is seen today of the church dates back to the Crusader renovations around 1112 AD, although portions of the original church of Constantine remain. As 12th-century maps reveal, the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem was the spiritual center of Christendom and its most important pilgrimage site. The church was laid out so pilgrims could move from chapel to chapel, culminating in the Holy Sepulchre itself. The church that the Crusaders built included the courtyard where Golgotha was believed to have been, and enclosed everything under one roof within a magnificent cathedral. The entrance to the church was relocated from the east end to the south side of the building. Stairs and a platform were built at the level of Golgotha so pilgrims could be at the same level where Jesus was crucified. This stairway and platform still exist today. The Basilica of Helena, accessed from stairs leading downward, was built. This is the place where Helena is believed to have found the true Cross of Christ. It was initially in a hole under the quarry. The entrance to Calvary was located outside the church, with stairs leading upwards to a platform where all the events of the crucifixion were depicted. The Basilica of the Martyrium was transformed, and all its contents were housed under the cathedral's roof. The apse of the church Constantine built for the crucifixion site faced west; today, it faces east. The sites of the crucifixion and tomb have remained in the same places since the time of Christ. Only the buildings around them have changed. An Edicule was built over Christ's tomb, and within it is the Chapel of the Angels, as well as what remains of Christ's tomb. The right-hand door was blocked up after the Muslim reconquest of the city in 1187. Today, the entrance consists of a single large door. The three primary custodians of the church were appointed when the Crusaders ruled Jerusalem. They are the Greek Orthodox, Armenian Apostolic, and Roman Catholic churches. In the 19th century, the Coptic Orthodox, Ethiopian Orthodox, and Syrian Orthodox also acquired responsibilities, albeit in a smaller capacity. Each church denomination agrees on the times and places of worship. A Muslim family has been given the key for opening and closing the church doors since 1187 AD, when Muslims seized control of Jerusalem. 19. 1808 After a fire, the last significant changes to the church took place around 1808 AD. The Edicule over the tomb was renovated. The central Catholicon was closed, which was once part of the courtyard of Constantine’s church. New stairs leading up to Calvary were changed from outside the church to inside. Today, you enter from just inside the church, turn right, and take steep stairs up to the platform of Calvary. The Edicule, or tomb of Christ, has been renovated several times since the Crusaders. It suffered an earthquake in 1927 and was subsequently shored up; then, in 2016, it underwent another renovation. 20. 2016 In 2016, when the marble slab over the traditional burial bench was removed inside the tomb of Christ edicule, researchers found the original limestone surface of the burial bed intact. Under the outer marble covering, they also found an older broken marble slab with a cross carved into it, resting directly on the limestone rock. This was important because many scholars wondered whether the tomb had been destroyed or moved over the centuries. 21. 2022 ~ Present In April of 2022, a stone slab was turned over during renovations, inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. They identified unique decorations on this stone slab that combine Classical, Byzantine, and early Islamic art, featuring finely cut tiles of colorful marble used to fill in circular engravings on the stone. The stone slab stood at the apex of the sanctuary in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This provides further evidence that this site has been revered for millennia as the actual location of Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. Recent excavations beneath the church floor revealed that the area was originally a limestone quarry, with quarry marks visible in the bedrock. The Israel Antiquities Authority's preliminary report states that the exposed bedrock shows evidence of intensive quarrying throughout the area. This is important because the Gospel setting makes sense archaeologically: Golgotha and nearby tombs would have been outside the city wall in a reused quarry area, not in the middle of a normal residential neighborhood. Archaeobotanical analysis found remains connected with grapes, figs, cereals, grasses, and possibly olive trees. This is striking because John 19:41 says that “in the place where He was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb.” The finds do not “prove the resurrection,” but they do show that the traditional Holy Sepulchre area really did have garden or agricultural activity before Constantine’s church was built. Conclusion 1. Based on all the above accounts, the true site of Golgotha should have evidence of buildings on and around it. The problem with the Garden Tomb is that it has none of this. There is no evidence of buildings or any other structures on or around it, and it was only discovered in 1883. The true site of Golgotha must have ruins on it. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre meets this requirement. 2. When attempting to find an authentic site, the best candidate is where one thing has been built upon another, dating close to the time of its beginning. Again, the problem with the Garden Tomb is that it lacks this, while the Church of the Holy Sepulchre does. Now, in archaeology, one of the most important factors in locating an authentic site is having one thing built upon another. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre has around 2,000 years of such history. For me personally, there is no doubt this is the genuine place where Christ was crucified, buried, and rose from the dead to pay for our sins. All the evidence and historical writings from eyewitnesses provide overwhelming evidence that supports the authenticity of this site. Therefore, the true site of Golgotha should exhibit all the evidence of the buildings described in the eyewitness accounts, match the historical records and archaeological discoveries, and have these ruins visible to some extent today. There is only one place in the world that contains all this evidence, and it's the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The evidence is just so overwhelming that this is the true location of Golgotha. 3. Christians would not have forgotten where Golgotha was. There was no one like Jesus. The holiest site for Christians was marked out early and venerated. It has been venerated for 2,000 years and continues to be so today. The early Christians would not have forgotten where Golgotha was. The problem with the Garden Tomb is that it is based upon Christians forgetting this holiest event. 4. The rock face that resembles a skull at the Garden Tomb is weak evidence. The shape of the rock face at the Garden Tomb appears to be convincing evidence. However, over the past 50 or so years, its look has undergone dramatic changes. In fact, it now bears hardly any resemblance to the look of a skull. That's why the Garden Tomb has a photo of it posted for all to see. Imagine how this shape has likely changed over the past 2,000 or so years, with all the wars, rain, erosion, and other natural forces that have affected it. As mentioned, today, it hardly resembles a skull. When Scripture mentions this site, it doesn't necessarily refer to a natural shape, but is more likely to refer to a place where crucifixions took place. Therefore, the natural formation at the Garden Tomb is weak evidence and shouldn't be a major factor in determining the true site of Golgotha. This shape could have looked entirely different during Jesus' time. 5. What appears to be some motives regarding the Garden Tomb. It appears that part of the reason why evangelicals don't like the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and favor the Garden Tomb has to do with theological reasons, rather than biblical, historical, or archaeological ones. They don't like the fact that it has a Catholic influence. However, it's only partly Catholic. Six different faiths claim ownership of it—Greek Orthodox, Armenian, Coptic, etc. Another reason they dislike it is its atmosphere. It's hard to picture what it would have been like during the time of Christ, and the ornaments and decorations may not have appealed to them. Due to the numerous adornments and constructions over the centuries, it is challenging to envision how the site would have appeared during the time of Christ. However, these 2,000 years of activity and tradition give greater weight to its authenticity. Some people have an adverse reaction to the atmosphere inside the church. However, this is what we should expect from a place that has been venerated for two millennia. We understand why most evangelicals don't like the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and favor the Garden Tomb. However, if it's the truth we are looking for, then t he overwhelming evidence points to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre location as the true site of Golgotha. Final Thoughts 1. We also understand that many find significant meaning in the atmosphere of the Garden Tomb, which serves as a meaningful place to meditate on all that happened at Golgotha. We are in no way against this. We are just trying to be faithful servants who present the evidence for the truth. We wish the Garden Tomb God's richest blessings.

All about HolyLandSite.com Ministries. Bible Videos, teachings, maps, Holy Land Tour Trips to Israel, resources, and more. See amazing and interesting facts and truths about Israel, the Holy Land. Videos, maps, books, talks, archaeology, Bible teachings, history, walls, gates, people, and language of the people and places in Israel. Jerusalem, Sea of Galilee, Dead Sea, Masada, Negev, Nazareth, Bethlehem, Hebron, Shechem, Samaria, Jordan River, Beersheba, and more. About Us About Us In 2010 we began going to Israel, and in 2011 we began leading tour trips to Israel. God gave us a passion for helping people see the places and context in which the Bible took place. As a result, we started creating videos, writing books, and leading tour trips to Israel to fulfill this calling and passion. In 2012 we officially launched HolyLandSite.com Ministries. It is a rapidly growing ministry that has become our central ministry focus. In conjunction with leading Holy Land Tour Trips to Israel, we go to Israel regularly to film more sites for our Bible teaching videos. For example, we just spent 2 months in Israel filming around 100 sites for the upcoming videos we plan to produce. Holy Land Site is a ministry affiliated with Go Missions to Mexico, a Christ-centered, biblically-based, non-denominational mission organization that has 29 years of experience in missionary service. It exists to incorporate short-term mission teams in the Great Commission to reach the unreached and strengthen churches and believers of Christ in Mexico. Scroll down to see more info about us. Todd & Letsy Fink (left), Logan Fink (center), Joel and Miriam Fink (right), Jonathan & Jason (Joel & Miriam's children) Todd Fink Todd has 45 years of ministry experience in the U.S. and Mexico. During this time, he has served as Youth Director, Campus Life Staff, AWANA Director, Sunday School Teacher, Youth Pastor, Associate Pastor, Hispanic Outreach Pastor, Building Construction Chairman, and Missionary. He also has experience in the secular field in agriculture and construction. Currently, he is in his 25th year as a missionary in Mexico and is the founder of Go Missions to Mexico and Holy Land Site Ministries. Todd is married to Letsy Fink and has four grown children and 8 grandchildren . Todd holds the following Bible degrees Bachelor of Theology Degree from Freelandia Bible College Master of Divinity studies at Western Seminary Master of Theology Degree from Freedom Bible College Master of Biblical Theology from Trinity Theological Seminary Doctor of Theology Degree (Ph.D.) from Trinity Theological Seminary. For books by Todd, click here . Letsy Fink Letsy has many years of ministry experience in both the U.S. and Mexico. She has served in many children's ministries, served with Todd in youth ministry, and loves leading Vacation Bible School Outreaches in Mexico with short-term mission teams. She has become a vital part of Holy Land Site Ministries and does a lot of camera work and filming for our videos. Letsy grew up in a godly home and went to church in an evangelic, Bible-believing church her whole life. She is currently working on a Bachelor of Theology Degree and delights in learning and growing in the Lord. Letsy has four grown children and 8 grandchildren . Joel Fink Joel moved to Mexico with his parents when he was 9 years old. He has grown up in Mexico and attended a local high school. It was there he met his high school sweetheart, Miriam, and later married. The culture of Mexico is second nature to Joel, and his Spanish speaking abilities are flawless. He has been working with short-term mission teams for practically his whole life. He has many building skills, ministry skills, and is a worship leader at his home church in Mexico. Joel accompanies us on all our Holy Land Tour Trips to Israel and helps with all the details, and is the main camera operator. Joel received a Bachelor of Theology Degree from Freedom Bible College and Seminary. Joel has two children. Miriam Fink Miriam is from Mexico and married Joel Fink in 2009. She has been an incredible addition to the ministry team and loves the Lord. She enjoys working with children and short-term mission teams. She is a great mother and loves her family deeply. Mirian goes to Israel on occasion and loves it very much. Miriam received a Bachelor of Business Degree from a university in Guadalajara, Mexico, and a Bachelor of Theology Degree from Trinity Bible College and Seminary. Miriam has two children. Logan Fink Logan moved to Mexico with his parents when he was about a year old. He has grown up in Mexico and feels very at home in the culture and his Spanish speaking abilities are flawless. He has been working with short-term mission teams for practically his whole life. He has many building skills, ministry skills, and is the youth pastor at his home church in Mexico. Logan accompanies us on many of our Holy Land Tour Trips to Israel and helps with all the details, and is one of the main camera operators. Logan has done Bachelor of Theology studies at Freedom Bible College and Seminary. Bere Fink Bere is from Mexico and married Logan in 2019. She has been an incredible addition to the ministry team and loves the Lord. She is the children's director at her home church, helps Logan in youth ministry, and is active in leading VBSs with Go Missions to Mexico. She is very gifted administratively and brings organization to whatever she does. Bere goes to Israel on occasion and loves it very much.

It was 3,000 years ago that King David made the City of David, also known as Jerusalem, the capital of Israel. Later, David would be buried in the City of David. Learn all about the true location that has been lost over the years. Tomb of King David Photo Gallery Places of Interest Tomb of King David Introduction 1. Welcome to this site of the Tomb of King David. Today, this tomb is not really visited much. Most people go to the lower floor of the Upper Room at Mount Zion, where a large casket is placed in veneration of King David's Tomb. 2. Where is the correct location of King David's Tomb? And why is it so important? If possible, it's always best to know the true holy sites and venerated them in their authentic location. There are also other sites around the true site that add value and awe. 3. We'll see how, by just using the Bible, we can accurately locate the true site of David's tomb. 4. Join us as we uncover the layers of time and learn why almost everyone who once visited King David's tomb here in the city of David now visits the synagogue under the Upper Room, believing it to be the correct location. 5. We'll also learn some valuable lessons from the Bible about David and his burial place. So, join us on this journey as we discover the actual site of King David's Tomb. Location 1. The place tourists go today to see the Tomb of King David is on the Western Hill at the exact location as the Upper Room. This is so because the Crusaders (1095–1291 AD) believed Pentecost took place at the Upper Room and interpreted a verse in Peter's sermon as meaning King David's tomb was at the Upper Room and not in the Jerusalem area: "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" (Acts 2:29). Later, a Jewish Rabbi had a vision that King David's tomb was in the same area, so a synagogue was placed over the same building as the Upper Room, and a casket was placed there to honor King David. The casket is empty and does not have David's bones in it. In 1913, Raymond Weill discovered the Tomb of David in the lower part of the City of David, and for about 50 years, tourists visited that site. However, after 1960, tourists returned to the Upper Room, where they believed the Tomb of David was located. Why did this change occur? We will see why in a moment. 2. The Bible provides quite accurate information regarding the location of the Tomb of David. 1 Kings 2:10: Then David lay down with his fathers, and he was buried in the city of David . This verse makes it clear that the Tomb of David was located inside the City of David. The current site where tourists visit the Tomb of David is not in the City of David but on the upper part of the Western Hill, west of the City of David, about 0.5 miles (1 km) away. Nehemiah 3:15-16: Shallum the son of Col-hozeh, the official of the district of Mizpah, repaired the Fountain Gate. He built it, made a roof for it, and installed its doors with its bolts and its bars, and the wall of the Pool of Shelah [Siloam] at the king’s garden as far as the steps that descend from the city of David . 16 After him Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, official of half the district of Beth-zur, made repairs as far as a point opposite the tombs of David , and as far as the artificial pool and the house of the mighty men. The context of Nehemiah 3 makes it clear that these verses form part of a description of the rebuilding of the city wall, beginning at the southern tip of the city of David and moving north along the eastern wall, the section being rebuilt. Verse 15 starts at the pool of Siloam. It ends at the steps. The following section, described in verse 16, begins at these unknown steps and continues farther north towards the temple mount up to a point opposite the tombs of David, as far as the artificial pool. Based on this information, it is estimated where the royal tombs should be located. Based on this location and the section of the wall described in Nehemiah, Raymond Weill began digging in this area in 1913. Using around 200 local workers and 30 donkeys, Weill's team cleared the entire area all the way down to bedrock. Weill then found the remains of nine tombs in front of an ancient pool just as the Bible had indicated. The tombs were extensively damaged due to the stones that were quarried out of the site (to rebuild Jerusalem into Aelia Capitolina) later on, and the intentional destruction by Roman Emperor Hadrian (135 AD), who tried to wipe out the remains of a Jewish presence in the area. However, two of the most important and monumental tombs were clearly visible. Weill identified the most monumental tomb as that of King David. It should be noted that only kings were allowed to be buried within the city walls of a city, as they were considered royalty and were exempt from obeying Moses' command to bury the dead outside the city walls because they were deemed unclean. This provides additional evidence that David's Tomb is located in this area. Historical Background 1. King David died around 970 BC and was buried in the City of David (1 Kings 2:10). The City of David was 11 acres (4.5 hectares) in size (about the size of 11 football fields). 2. David's Tomb was known and venerated during the time of Nehemiah (around 444 BC). As we have seen from Nehemiah's account, David's Tomb is located on the east side of the City of David, north of the Pool of Siloam. The location of Raymond Weill's excavations confirms this location. 3. A synagogue dating to around 100 BC, which appears to have venerated David's Tomb, was discovered, with its remains still visible today. It's called the Theodotos synagogue and is located right below David's Tomb. Raymond Weill found a stone bearing a dedication inscription for the synagogue. In this inscription, Theodotus, a ruler of the synagogue and the son and grandson of synagogue rulers, built the synagogue for three things: 1) the reading of the Torah, 2) the teaching of the commandments, and 3) as a guest house for travelers. 4. The Apostle Peter, on the day of Pentecost, indicates that the Tomb of David was still venerated during the New Testament period. “Brethren, 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 ” (Acts 2:29). 5. Josephus Flavius, a Jewish historian writing around 60-80 AD, located the Tomb of David in the City of David. According to Josephus, Herod broke into David's tomb to rob it, but when he tried to enter the inner chamber, tongues of fire shot out (Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews, 16:7:1). 6. Around 135 AD, the Roman Emperor, Hadrian, knew where David's Tomb was and intentionally quarried stones there for his building projects. It's this destruction that removed the top of David's Tomb and destroyed many other tombs of royal kings buried in this area. 7. In summary, the historical and archeological data reveal that the Tomb of David in the City of David was venerated from the time of David's death in 970 BC until around 638 AD, when the Muslims took over Israel and destroyed many Christian and Jewish sites. It would be at this time that the tomb would become neglected and buried under dirt and debris. Change in Location from the City of David to Mount Zion 1. The Crusaders began venerating the location of the Tomb of David on Mount Zion around 1125 AD. This was because the Tomb of David was buried in the City of David, and its location was unknown. 2. Also, the Crusaders believed Pentecost took place in the Upper Room and interpreted a verse in Peter's sermon as indicating that King David's tomb was there (Acts 2:29). 3. Later, a Jewish Rabbi had a vision that King David's tomb was in the same area, so a synagogue was placed over the same building as the Upper Room, and a casket was placed there to honor King David. The casket is empty and does not have David's bones in it. 4. The site on Mount Zion has no biblical or archaeological evidence supporting it as the location of David's Tomb. 5. The site is where the Upper Room was located. After it was destroyed in 70 AD, a new Judeo-Christian Synagogue was built on the original site, with subsequent churches constructed to mark the Upper Room location as well. Change in Location from Mount Zion Back to the City of David 1. After Raymond Weill discovered David's Tomb in the City of David, it would be the site where all the tourists would visit and venerate once again. 2. Raymond Weill's discovery of the Tomb of David was widely accepted by his colleagues. An example of this is Benjamin Mazar, one of the father figures of Israeli archaeology. He wrote a famous book about his excavations around Jerusalem. On the back of his book is a photo showing the tombs from the House of David that Weill discovered. So we have an example of how Weill's discovery was accepted in scholarship for many years. Change in Location from the City of David Back to Mount Zion 1. In 1960, Kathleen Kenyon excavated the Tomb of David site in the City of David. However, the site and Kathleen Kenyon's work were then under the authority of Jordan and the Jordan Antiquities Authority. It appears Kathleen's goal was to overturn any Jewish connections to the biblical sites and replace them with different views. She did this in Jericho and other places. It seems she was politically and not archaeologically motivated. 2. Kathleen interpreted the tombs as cisterns. This is remarkably irresponsible, as all the evidence at these sites clearly supports them as being tombs and not cisterns. Cisterns are vertical in nature. David's Tomb is horizontally shaped. Cisterns don't have openings at the bottom. David's Tomb has an opening at the bottom for entry. Cisterns usually don't have two levels. David's Tomb has a lower level and an upper level. The upper level is where his body was located. Cisterns are entirely covered with plaster, so water doesn't escape or leak out. David's Tomb has very little plaster. Cisterns don't have cutouts in their sides for oil lamps. This tomb has them. 3. Katheen admitted that what Weill had identified as the Tomb of David was not like any other observed cistern known. Here is her quote from her book, "Digging Up Jerusalem," pgs. 31-32. “The particular cuttings revealed by Weill were certainly unusual , consisting of two rock-cut tunnels side by side. They are not like any observed cisterns , though the plaster that covers the rock shows that they were at some stage used as cisterns." 4. As a result of Kathleen's interpretation, tourists began going to Mount Zion, the site of the first floor of the Upper Room and no longer visited the actual site in the City of David. In fact, most tourists don't even know the story behind what has happened and are ignorant of the location of the actual site. Location of the Tomb of David, According to the Israeli Antiquities Authority The Israeli Antiquities Authority oversees and is the ultimate authority on excavations and discoveries in Israel. They have posted signs in the City of David marking the location of the Tomb of David (and the other tombs of the House of David), along with the Theodotos Synagogue, and more. In so doing, they confirm the location of King David's Tomb in the City of David. Places of Interest 1. Pool of Siloam 2. Tomb 1: King David's Tomb 3. Tomb 2 4. Horizontal Tomb Shaft of Tomb 1 5. Burial niche at the very back of Tomb 1 6. Carved out trough at the back of the Tomb 1 horizontal shaft. This is likely the place where King David's bones were buried. 7. Quarried Area 8. Theodotos Synagogue 9. Ancient 3,000-year-old walls of the City of David 10. Walls Nehemiah repaired that can be seen today 11. Upper Room The Tomb of David and the Bible 1. The importance of the discovery of King David's palace and tomb can be found in Psalm 16.:9-11. Therefore my heart is glad and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will dwell securely. 10 For You will not abandon my soul to Sheol; You will not allow Your Holy One to undergo decay. 2. Was David writing about himself or someone else? He couldn't have been writing about himself as he died, his body decayed, and his bones turned to dust. 3. However, God made a promise to David that He would establish a house of lineage for him and establish that there would come someone from his lineage who would reign forever. This would be the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ, who would come from David's lineage. 2 Samuel 7:11-13: The Lord also declares to you that the Lord will make a house for you. 12 When your days are finished and you lie down with your fathers, I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come from you, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever . 4. For around a thousand years after David's death, the Israelites continued to remember this promise given to David and looked for their coming Messiah, the Son of David, who would fulfill this prophecy. Psalm 89:3-4: I have made a covenant with My chosen; I have sworn to My servant David, 4 I will establish your descendants forever and build up your throne to all generations. Psalm 89:35-37: Once I have sworn by My holiness; I will not lie to David. 36 His descendants shall endure forever, and his throne as the sun before Me. 7 It shall be established forever like the moon, and a witness in the sky is faithful. 5. Christ fulfilled this prophecy. His tomb was empty, and Christ never saw decay. He will reign forever, and His kingdom will have no end. Faith Lesson from the Tomb of David 1. The prophecy that the Messiah would come from David's House was fulfilled in Christ. What about us? Do we realize how fulfilled prophecy confirms the truthfulness of the Bible? Do we trust the Bible as God's Word? 2. The fact that Jesus rose from the dead proves we also, have the hope of rising from the dead and receiving eternal life. What about us? Are we living in the light of the hope we have of eternal life? Do our priorities and decisions align with this hope? 3. Have we received Christ as our Lord and Savior, and will we be a part of Christ's eternal kingdom?

See how archaeology affirms the truthfulness of the Bible. See all kinds of Bible videos, information, proof, resources, writings, teachings, and more. Archaeology and the Bible Archaeology & the Bible Introduction Archaeology is one of the great friends of the Bible. It uncovers cities, gates, walls, coins, inscriptions, tombs, roads, pools, and everyday objects from the world of Scripture. These discoveries do not create the truth of the Bible, but they often confirm it. They show that the Bible is rooted in real places, real people, real governments, real customs, and real history. At the same time, the Bible does not need archaeology in order to be true. God’s Word stands on its own. Archaeology is helpful evidence, but it is not the foundation of our faith. The foundation is God Himself and His inspired Word. Archaeology Supports the Bible For many years, critics claimed that certain people or events in the Bible were doubtful because there was little outside evidence for them. But again and again, archaeology has shown that the Bible was accurate. 1. One strong example is the Tel Dan Stele, a 9th-century BC inscription found in northern Israel. It mentions the “House of David,” giving important evidence that David was not just a religious legend, but the founder of a real royal dynasty in Judah. The Israel Museum identifies this inscription as a victory stele from Dan mentioning the “House of David.” 2. Another example is the Mesha Stele, also called the Moabite Stone. This inscription was written by King Mesha of Moab and tells about Moab’s conflict with Israel. The Louvre describes it as a historical Moabite text of 34 lines, written shortly after 842 BC, describing Mesha’s recovery of territories from Israel. This fits the biblical world of 2 Kings 3, where Mesha king of Moab rebelled against Israel. 3. The Taylor Prism, also called Sennacherib’s Prism, is another important discovery. It records the Assyrian king Sennacherib’s campaign against Judah and mentions Hezekiah king of Judah. The British Museum describes it as a clay prism containing Sennacherib’s campaigns, including tribute received from Hezekiah in 701 BC. This supports the historical background of 2 Kings 18–19, 2 Chronicles 32, and Isaiah 36–37. 4. In the New Testament world, the Pontius Pilate inscription found at Caesarea confirms that Pilate was a real Roman official in Judea. The Israel Museum lists a Latin dedicatory inscription from Caesarea mentioning Pontius Pilate, the procurator of Judea. This supports the Gospel accounts that place Pilate in authority during the trial of Jesus. Archaeology Confirms the World of the Bible Archaeology does more than confirm famous names. It also helps us understand the world in which the Bible took place. 1. The Bible speaks of kings, empires, temples, gates, city walls, water systems, taxes, armies, and written decrees. Archaeology shows that these details fit the ancient world. For example, the Cyrus Cylinder records how Cyrus of Persia conquered Babylon in 539 BC and allowed displaced peoples and temple objects to be restored. This fits the kind of Persian policy described in Ezra, where Cyrus allows the Jews to return and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. 2. In Jerusalem, discoveries connected with water systems, pools, tunnels, and walls help us picture the city of the Bible. The Pool of Siloam, connected with John 9 where Jesus healed the blind man, has been identified through excavations near the City of David. Archaeology helps bring that Gospel account into a real physical setting. 3. These discoveries remind us that the Bible is not written like mythology. It gives names, dates, rulers, regions, roads, cities, and events that can often be tested against the physical remains of history. Archaeology Supports the Preservation of the Bible One of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time is the Dead Sea Scrolls. These ancient manuscripts include some of the oldest known copies of biblical texts. The Leon Levy Dead Sea Scrolls Digital Library, connected with the Israel Antiquities Authority, describes the scroll fragments as including the oldest known copies of biblical texts. The Great Isaiah Scroll is especially important. It contains all 66 chapters of Isaiah and dates to around 125 BC. This shows that the book of Isaiah was being copied and preserved long before the time of Christ. This matters because it shows that the Old Testament text was handled with great care. The Dead Sea Scrolls do not create the authority of Scripture, but they give strong evidence that the Bible we have today has been faithfully preserved. Archaeology “Proves” the Bible in the Areas It Can Test It is fair to say that archaeology has proved many historical details in the Bible. It has proved that many biblical people were real. It has proved that many biblical places were real. It has proved that many customs, empires, inscriptions, wars, and events fit the world described in Scripture. But we should also be careful. Archaeology cannot prove everything, because archaeology has limits. It cannot dig up love, forgiveness, sin, grace, angels, demons, heaven, or eternal life. It cannot place the resurrection of Jesus in a laboratory. It cannot prove every miracle by finding an artifact. However, archaeology can show that the Bible is historically trustworthy where it touches the world of history. And if the Bible is reliable in the areas we can test, we have good reason to trust it in the areas we cannot fully test. The Bible Can Stand Alone Without Archaeology While archaeology is powerful, the Bible does not depend on archaeology to be true. Scripture was God’s Word before the first spade went into the ground. It was true before the Tel Dan Stele was found. It was true before the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. It was true before Pilate’s name was found in stone. The Bible stands alone because it comes from God. As 2 Timothy 3:16 says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God.” Its authority comes from divine inspiration, not from human discovery. Archaeology is a witness, but it is not the judge. The Bible does not sit in the courtroom waiting for archaeology to decide whether it is true. Rather, archaeology often enters the courtroom as a witness and says, “The Bible was right.” Faith and Evidence Work Together Christians do not need to be afraid of evidence. The Bible is not a book of fairy tales. It is rooted in history. It speaks of real people like David, Hezekiah, Cyrus, Pilate, Peter, Paul, and Jesus. It speaks of real places like Jerusalem, Jericho, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Caesarea, Capernaum, and Rome. Archaeology strengthens our confidence because it shows that the Bible fits the real world. It gives color, background, and confirmation. It helps us understand the setting of Scripture more clearly. But our faith is not in stones, scrolls, or inscriptions. Our faith is in the living God. Archaeology can support the Bible, but only God can change the heart. Conclusion Archaeology and the Bible go beautifully together. Archaeology uncovers the ancient world, and the Bible explains its meaning. Archaeology gives us stones, ruins, inscriptions, and artifacts. The Bible gives us truth, salvation, and the message of God’s redemption. The discoveries of archaeology strongly support the Bible’s historical reliability. They prove many details that critics once doubted. They show that Scripture is grounded in real history. But the Bible does not need archaeology in order to stand. Archaeology is a helpful servant, not the master. The Word of God is true because God is true. Archaeology simply helps us see, again and again, that the Bible can be trusted.

Videos About the Judean Wilderness In Israel and the Testing of Christ. Jesus began His ministry by being baptized by John and then tested in the wilderness (Matt. 3:13-17). Following Jesus' baptism, He was immediately led into the wilderness here to be tested (Luke 4:1-13). Judean Wilderness: Testing of Christ Judean Wilderness: Testing of Christ Welcome to the Holy Land and the biblical site of the wilderness area of Judea in the Jericho region. See the Bible come to life as we take a look at some key events that took place here regarding Christ and His temptation in the wilderness. Jesus began His ministry by being baptized by John and then tested in the wilderness. Matt. 3:13-17: “Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he consented. And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased." Following Jesus' baptism, He was immediately led into the wilderness here to be tested. Luke 4:1-13: “And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And he ate nothing during those days. And when they were ended, he was hungry. The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread." And Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone.'" And the devil took him up and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time, and said to him, "To you, I will give all this authority and their glory, for it has been delivered to me, and I give it to whom I will. If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours." And Jesus answered him, "It is written, "'You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve.'" And he took him to Jerusalem and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, for it is written, "'He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you,' and "'On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.'" And Jesus answered him, "It is said, 'You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'" And when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from him until an opportune time. What can we observe and learn about Christ’s baptism and testing in this area of the wilderness? Baptism is important and is commanded by God. It shows our faith in receiving Christ, dying to our old life, and being raised to a new life. Another way of looking at the word tempted is tested. Christ overcame each test of Satan with the word of God. Scripture says that God does not tempt us with sin, but we are led away by our own desires to disobey. God tested many of His servants before He called them to ministry. He tested: Moses David The Prophets We are often tested by God as well. Scripture says that leaders are to be tested before being placed into office. 1 Tim. 3:10 says, “And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. What about us? Have I been baptized if I am a true believer in Christ? Has God tested me in various ways in my lifetime? How have I responded to the tests He sends my way? Am I serious about reading God’s word? 2 Tim. 2:15 says, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. Do I know God’s word well enough so I know the truth to combat the lies of Satan, the beliefs of our day, and those of others?

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

We have led many tour trips to Israel during tension and unrest. Hear our perspective as experienced tour guides who have made many trips to Israel. Must see perspective for anyone concerned with what's happening in Israel, and if they should take a tour trip at this time. Is It Safe to Travel to Israel During Unrest? Safety In Israel We know the current war might be causing you to reconsider going to Israel at this time. However, here is some information and context to help you. 1. We have tour guide colleagues in Israel leading teams there right now. Things are safe with no issues. They are having a great time and enjoying all the sites. 2. Right now, we can visit all of the sites on our itinerary. 3. Security in Israel is better than ever right now. There have been virtually no terrorist attacks inside Israel since the war began. 4. Israel is open for business: all restaurants, hotels, parks, services, etc., are functioning normally. 5. Ben Gurion Airport is functioning normally, with all major airlines operating without issues. 6. Israel is winning the war with Hamas and should have Gaza under complete control soon. 7. The war is happening in Gaza, not within the country of Israel. We will not be touring any sites in or close to Gaza. 8. Our tour bus driver assures us that things are safe for tourism in Israel right now. 9. There are far fewer tourists in Israel, so some of the sites that are difficult to see due to long lines are very accessible. Now is a great time to visit Israel. 10. We know the current situation could seem scary to you, but we have traveled throughout Israel many times during tensions and have not felt unsafe. Virtually all of the country functions normally with no issues. Therefore, we want to assure you that we are moving forward with our tour trips and have no plans to cancel them. Other Safety Concerns Good News Before I share the inside perspective on tension and unrest in Israel, let me share some good news from our bus driver, with whom we are in regular contact about safety for the tour trips we lead to Israel. Here’s his quote: “Do not worry, my brother, the conditions here are not as the media presents. I now have an American group in these conditions during this month of Ramadan [Muslim Holy Month], and everything is going on safely, and there are no problems.” This quote comes during a time of high tension in Israel during Ramadan. Now, let’s discuss the inside story of what’s happening in Israel and whether we should be concerned. Spiritual Warfare All that’s happening can be traced to spiritual warfare. The Israeli government has been passing new laws allowing Jews to go up to the Temple Mount. The Muslims don’t like this, so they gather rocks and things inside the Al Aqsa Mosque to throw at the Jews when they’re up there. We saw this firsthand recently. The Israeli police have therefore gone into the Al Aqsa Mosque to clear this out and arrest the Muslim protesters. The Temple Mount authority has been given to the Muslims, but the Israeli police control the security there. The surrounding places, like Gaza and Lebanon, support the Muslims and therefore are aiding them in this spiritual warfare. Ramadan Ramadan is a Muslim holy month. During this time, there is always more tension because the Muslims engage more in Jihad. So this explains why there is more tension during this time. After Ramadan, things will settle down considerably. This is why we don’t plan our trips to Israel during Ramadan. Also, it’s hard to go onto the Temple Mount during Ramadan because it’s so busy with Muslims. Most Arabs Are Very Friendly Every experience we have had with Arabs has been highly positive. They tend to love tourists and view them as a positive influence. Our Experiences In Israel During Unrest We have been in Israel during some terrorist attacks and didn’t even know it until we heard it on the news or someone told us. I’ll briefly share two incidents. A few years ago, my wife and I were filming a Bible teaching on the Mount of Olives and heard some helicopter noise. It was somewhat annoying, but we didn't think much of it, as airplanes and helicopters are quite common in Israel. They patrol their skies quite well. Later, we learned that an Arab had run into some Jews by the Damascus bus station. We were just a quarter mile away from this incident. It was dealt with, and life went back to normal very quickly. Later, we took the light rail train that departs beside the Damascus bus station, where this event happened, to our hotel. We didn’t even know what had happened until later. On a recent tour trip to Israel with a group, we visited Pilate’s Palace, discussing the location of Jesus' trial. During the teaching, we heard some sirens and so forth. Later, we learned there had been a terrorist attack inside Old City Jerusalem. After our teaching, we entered the Old City and would never have known anything had happened if we hadn’t been told. We must understand that things happen in a moment in time and then return to normal. This is normal for Israel. We’ll Avoid Any Hotspots If, by chance, an incident were to happen, we would avoid it. Our bus driver is an Arab Christian and has been driving tour buses for many years. He will not lead us into any danger. While in Jerusalem, the Israeli police are incredible and provide fantastic security. Also, tourists are not targeted. In fact, they are welcomed. The tension is between Muslims and Jews. Israel’s Iron Dome Defense System Israel has developed a sophisticated Iron Dome that shoots most rockets fired into Israel. The chances of us being hit by a missile are one in a million. It’s not like rockets are raining down from heaven everywhere in Israel. God’s Sovereignty The hairs on our heads and our days are numbered. We won’t die one minute sooner or later than what God has determined for us, so we can rest in His sovereignty and enjoy His peace and will for us. I tell those who think I am taking a risk in going to Israel that if God determines it’s my time to die, I couldn’t think of a better place to go to be in the presence of the Lord (which is much better than this life) than the Holy Land. We are not worried about safety issues in Israel. We fully trust the Lord’s perfect will for us, so we are at peace with our trips. We have gone to Israel many times in the midst of some unrest and haven’t had any issues. Some incidents happen on occasion, and most of the time, those in Israel don’t even know what’s happened until they hear it on the news. We won’t be canceling any upcoming tour trips to Israel, as we have visited the country many times during unrest, and virtually all of it functions normally regardless of what’s happening in a particular area. However, if you feel uncomfortable, we understand. We Don’t Cancel Our Trip s Unless There Is Extreme Danger Based on the above info, we have no plans to cancel any upcoming tour trip to Israel. We know it’s hard for some to understand this without having been to Israel. However, life goes on as usual for 99.9 percent of the population, and for those whose lives are interrupted, it’s only for a short time. Then it quickly passes, and life goes back to normal.