Learn about Israel, the land of the Bible. See all the places, travel routes, cities, and geography of all the places and events in the Bible. Israel Geography Video Series

Tel Hazor was one of the largest and most important biblical sites in the Canaanite and Israelite periods. The victory over Hazor by Joshua and the Israelites is probably one of the most overlooked miracles in the Bible. When we realize how powerful Hazor was and how Jabin, the King of Hazor, gathered countless armies against the Israelites, we see that only God could have given them victory. It was on the Via Maris, north of the Sea of Galilee. Tel Hazor Photo Gallery Places of Interest Hazor Location 1. Hazor is located about 10 miles (16 km.) due north of the Sea of Galilee and just to the east of Hwy. 90. 2. It was on one of the most important travel routes called the “Via Maris,” which linked Africa and Egypt with Syria and Asia. 3. It was the largest and most strategic city in northern Galilee due to its size and location. Historical Background 1. Hazor was one of the most important cities of the Canaanites and was the head of all the northern kingdoms (Josh. 11:10). 2. It was 10 times the size of Jerusalem and totaled 200 acres (81 hectares, 200 football fields) in size. 3. The upper part of the tel is around 30 acres (12 hectares), and the lower part is around 170 acres (69 hectares). 4. What we see today of Hazor is 1/8 the size of what it once was. 5. To the north lies most of the city, which is now a farm field. 6. It’s the largest tel in Israel. 7. It’s also believed to have been the largest city in ancient Canaan. 8. It was one of three major cities of defense in Israel (Gezer, to the south, Megiddo, in the middle of the country, and Hazor, in the north). All three cities were on the Via Maris. 9. Hazor rivaled Nineveh in size and importance. 10. Hazor is mentioned 19 times in the Bible. Places of Interest 1. Israelite City Ruins 2. Israelite Walls 3. Lower City 4. Temple Tombs 5. Northern Walls 6. Canaanite Temple/Palace 7. Solomon’s Walls and Gate (archaeologists have uncovered a six-chambered gate at Hazor, which is nearly identical in size and design to gates at Megiddo and Gezer). 8. Ash layer in the Canaanite Palace/Temple 9. Canaanite Altar 10. Water System (a century after Solomon’s time, the Israelites built a massive shaft 131 ft. (40 m.) deep into the tel, reaching the water table below). 11. Israelite Fortress/Tower 12. Rooms & Buildings 13. Canaanite passage between the upper and lower cities. Hazor in the Bible The victory over Hazor by Joshua and the Israelites is probably one of the most overlooked miracles in the Bible. When we realize how powerful Hazor was and how Jabin, the King of Hazor, gathered countless armies against the Israelites, we see that it was only God who could have given them the victory. 1. When Jabin, king of Hazor, heard that Joshua and the Israelites had been on a conquering rampage throughout all the southern part of the land, he gathered a host of kings in the northern part of the land to unite and fight against the Israelites. Joshua 11:1–5: When Jabin, king of Hazor , heard of this, he sent to Jobab king of Madon, and to the king of Shimron, and to the king of Achshaph, 2 and to the kings who were in the northern hill country, and in the Arabah south of Chinneroth, and in the lowland, and in Naphoth-dor on the west, 3 to the Canaanites in the east and the west, the Amorites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, and the Jebusites in the hill country, and the Hivites under Hermon in the land of Mizpah. 4 And they came out with all their troops, a great horde, in number like the sand that is on the seashore, with very many horses and chariots. 5 And all these kings joined their forces and came and encamped together at the waters of Merom [3.5 miles, 5.5 km. north of Hazor] to fight against Israel. 2. All the unified kings and soldiers believed that with their countless armies and gods, Israel would be no match for them. 3. God told Joshua and the Israelites not to be afraid because He would be with them and deliver all these kings into their hands. Joshua 11:6–9: And the Lord said to Joshua, “Do not be afraid of them, for tomorrow at this time I will give over all of them, slain, to Israel. You shall hamstring their horses and burn their chariots with fire.” 7 So Joshua and all his warriors came suddenly against them by the waters of Merom and fell upon them. 8 And the Lord gave them into the hand of Israel, who struck them and chased them as far as Great Sidon and Misrephoth-maim, and eastward as far as the Valley of Mizpeh. And they struck them until he left none remaining. 9 And Joshua did to them just as the Lord said to him: he hamstrung their horses and burned their chariots with fire. 4. After defeating all the armies, Joshua conquered Hazor and burned it with fire. Joshua 11:10–13: Then Joshua turned back at that time, and captured Hazor and struck its king with the sword; for Hazor formerly was the head of all these kingdoms . They struck every person who was in it with the edge of the sword, utterly destroying them; there was no one left who breathed. And he burned Hazor with fire . Joshua captured all the cities of these kings, and all their kings, and he struck them with the edge of the sword, and utterly destroyed them; just as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded. 13 But none of the cities that stood on mounds did Israel burn, except Hazor alone; that Joshua burned . Evidence of the burn marks and ash layer can be seen in the Canaanite Palace at Hazor. 5. Hazor was later retaken and rebuilt by the Canaanites. God used the Canaanites to punish Israel for their disobedience to Him. Judges 4:1–3: And the people of Israel again did what was evil in the sight of the Lord after Ehud died. 2 And the Lord sold them into the hand of Jabin [title, not a person’s name, i.e., pharaoh] king of Canaan, who reigned in Hazor . The commander of his army was Sisera, who lived in Harosheth-hagoyim. 3 Then the people of Israel cried out to the Lord for help, for he had 900 chariots of iron and he oppressed the people of Israel cruelly for twenty years. 6. God used Deborah and Barak to deliver the Israelites after they repented of their sins and cried out to Him for help. Joshua 4:14–16: And Deborah said to Barak, “Up! For this is the day in which the Lord has given Sisera into your hand. Does not the Lord go out before you?” So Barak went down from Mount Tabor with 10,000 men following him. 15 And the Lord routed Sisera and all his chariots and all his army before Barak by the edge of the sword. And Sisera got down from his chariot and fled away on foot. 16 And Barak pursued the chariots and the army to Harosheth-hagoyim, and all the army of Sisera fell by the edge of the sword; not a man was left. 7. Hazor later came under the control of Israel during the period of King David and Solomon, and Solomon rebuilt and fortified Hazor, along with Megiddo and Gezer. 1 Kings 9:15: Now this is the account of the forced labor which King Solomon levied to build the house of the Lord, his own house, the Millo, the wall of Jerusalem, Hazor , Megiddo, and Gezer. 8. . Jeremiah prophesied against Hazor due to the Israelites disobedience after David and Solomon’s time. Jeremiah 49:33: Hazor will become a haunt of jackals, a desolation forever; no one will live there, nor will a son of man reside in it. It’s amazing that this once sought-after prime location is now desolate. It shows the power of God and His proclaimed word. 9. As a result of Israel’s disobedience to God, Hazor was destroyed by Assyria in 722 BC, and the northern 10 tribes of Israel were deported. 2 Kings 15:29: In the days of Pekah king of Israel, Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria came and captured Ijon, Abel-beth-maacah, Janoah, Kedesh, Hazor , Gilead, and Galilee, all the land of Naphtali, and he carried the people captive to Assyria. Faith Lesson from Hazor 1. When the Israelites obeyed God, He blessed them and made them victorious over countless kings and multitudes of soldiers. 2. When they disobeyed God, He caused them to become weak and defeated. 3. The same lesson from the Old Testament applies to us today (Rom. 15:4). When we are obedient and faithful to God, we live victoriously and receive His blessings. However, when we disobey Him, we become weak and defeated. 4. What kind of lives are we living today? Are we victorious or defeated?

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

An in-depth look at the Bible events, location, and discoveries of ancient Bethsaida at the El Araj site. Peter, Andrew, and Philip were from this fishing town, and then later moved to Capernaum. This new location of Bethsaida has been recently discovered, and we believe it is the true location. Et-Tell site of Bethsaida has been the traditional location, and the El Araj site of Bethsaida is the new location with the best evidence biblically and archaeologically for the location of Bethsaida. Bethsaida Overview Photo Gallery New Location Photo Gallery Traditional Location Places of Interest Bethsaida Overview Introduction Welcome to Bethsaida. Several significant events from the Bible took place here. These are the highlights. 1. Bethsaida was a fishing village with several hundred inhabitants during the time of Christ. 2. At least 3 of the 12 disciples were from Bethsaida. John 1:44: Now Philip was from Bethsaida, of the city of Andrew and Peter. 3. It was one of the three towns Jesus cursed because the people there did not believe in Him after witnessing all His miracles. 4. It was near Bethsaida, where Christ fed the 5,000. 5. Not far from Bethsaida is where Jesus walked on the water and calmed the sea. 6. Jesus healed a blind man at Bethsaida. 7. It is a natural site where you can swim in the Sea of Galilee, fish, or sit by its shore and think about all that happened here. Location 1. Currently, there are two leading candidates for the actual Bethsaida location. The first is the traditional site, which has been excavated since 1987. It sits on a hill and is located approximately 1.5 miles or 2.25 kilometers from the high-water mark of the Sea of Galilee. Since no other sites were excavated besides this first one, it became the default site. The traditional site is known as Et Tell. A number of years ago, we did a video about the traditional site because at the time, it was the only site considered legitimate. However, we have revised our position and now believe that a new site, called El Araj, is the most suitable candidate for the actual Bethsaida location. It is located at the high-water mark on the northeast side of the Sea of Galilee at the inlet of the Jordan River and fits the biblical and historical records much better. 2. We know from the Bible that Bethsaida was in a desolate, remote place with little population. Luke 9:10: The apostles, when they had returned, told him what things they had done. He took them, and withdrew apart to a deserted place of a city called Bethsaida. 3. The northwestern side of the Sea of Galilee was densely populated in Jesus’ time, but the northeastern side where Bethsaida was located was desolate. 4. Bethsaida was a fishing village on the Sea of Galilee. In fact, its name means “House of Fishing.” 5. In John 1:44, we find that at least 3 disciples were from here: “Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. ” We also know that at least Peter and Andrew were fishermen, so they lived in Bethsaida to be close to the sea. Historical Evidence Supporting the El Araj Site 1. Edward Robinson first identified the site of Et-Tell as the possible site of the Biblical Bethsaida in 1841. However, in 1888, Gottlieb Schumacher challenged Robinson’s proposed site because it was too far from the shoreline of the Sea of Galilee. He proposed that El Araj was the proper location. 2. Like Schumacher, today some archaeologists and historians like Mordechai Aviam, Steven Notley, and Marc Turnage are not convinced the traditional site of Et Tell is the actual location of Bethsaida for two main reasons: The first problem concerns the distance from the Sea of Galilee to Et Tell. It is a considerable distance away and doesn’t align with the biblical, historical, and eyewitness accounts that clearly indicate Bethsaida was located right next to the sea. The traditional site is about 100 feet, or 30 meters, above the high-water level of the Sea of Galilee. They propose that the Sea of Galilee was approximately 16 feet or 5 meters higher than the current high-water mark. It would have been impossible for the Sea of Galilee to have been 16 feet or 5 meters higher than the high-water mark. It would have covered other known towns, such as Magdala, Gennesaret, Capernaum, and the newly discovered site of Bethsaida, which existed during the time of Christ and is located right next to the high-water mark of the Sea of Galilee. A dam was built in 1930 at the outlet of the Sea of Galilee, allowing Israel to regulate the water flow. As a result, today the water level of the sea can rise higher than it could have during the time of Christ. In recent years, due to heavy rainfall, the sea has risen higher than in previous years. However, as mentioned, during the time of Christ, the outlet prevented the sea from rising higher than the high-level watermark found around the shoreline. Therefore, the traditional site of Et Tell has real problems as it is so far from the sea. The second problem concerns the scarcity of Roman archaeology at the traditional site of Bethsaida. Josephus, a Jewish historian, writes about how Bethsaida was converted into a Roman City in the first century AD and underwent urbanization. He says: "And to the village of Bethsaida [located] next to the lake of Gennesar [Sea of Galilee] Herod Philip granted the dignity of the city by [introducing] a multitude of inhabitants and other fortifications, and he called it Julias after the name of the daughter of the Emperor" (Antiquities of the Jews: 18:28). No substantial remains of a Roman settlement have been found at Et Tell. Its ruins are mainly from the time of King David and Solomon. It features an impressive six-chamber gate, a design common during the time of Solomon. Jody Magnus, from UNC, speaks about the lack of Roman ruins at Et Tell. She says: "While the iron age remains at Bethsaida, or Et Tell, are monumental and impressive, the Roman period remains are very poor, and therefore, the site does not look like an urban center." For these two main reasons, the traditional site of Bethsaida has been questioned as the true site by some. We agree, and now believe this new site of El Araj is the true location of Bethsaida. 3. This “El Araj” site is also known by the locals as a different name. They call it "Bet Habek," which means the "Habek House" and was named after a Kurdish aristocrat who lived here in the 19th to 20th century. Some of the villa's ruins can still be seen today. 4. This site of El Araj is being excavated under the leadership of Professor Mordechai Aviam from the Kinneret Institute for Galilean Archeology at Kinneret College, Israel. Dr. Steven Notley is the academic and historical director at the site. He is a professor from the New York City campus of Nyack College. Marc Turnage assists as well. The excavation process at el Araj began in 2014, when Marc Turnage organized what is known as a “shovel survey” under the leadership of Aviam Mordechai and Steven Notley. This involved digging and sifting the soil from several five-meter by five-meter squares to a depth of about a foot, or 30 centimeters. Archaeologists then collected and dated the pottery, glass, and coins they found to create a profile of the site and its settlement. It was determined that there was a settlement at el Araj over a thousand years, spanning the Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, and Crusader periods —precisely the time frame of Bethsaida, according to historical sources. More serious excavations began in 2016 and continue to the present. 5. Now let’s look at some of the evidence that supports this site of El Araj as the best candidate for biblical Bethsaida. We will first examine the biblical accounts, then the eyewitness accounts, and finally the archaeological evidence, which aligns remarkably with the Bible and historical descriptions. Biblical account: According to the Bible, Bethsaida was located right beside the Sea of Galilee, and Jesus repeatedly traveled to and from it by boat. Historical and eyewitness accounts: As mentioned, Josephus, a Jewish historian, wrote about how Bethsaida was converted into a Polish or Roman City in the first century AD and urbanized. He wrote about how Bethsaida was located next to the lake of Gennesar [Sea of Galilee], and how Herod Philip converted Bethsaida into a Roman Polis city and called it Julias after the name of the daughter of the Emperor. Pliny the Elder, a first-century Roman writer, called Bethsaida “One of four lovely cities on the Sea of Galilee.” Later, Eusebius, in 305 AD, wrote about Bethsaida. He said, “The city of Andrew and Peter and Philip. It is located in the Galilee next to the lake of Gennesar" [Sea of Galilee]. Finally, we have a key testimony recorded of Willibald, Bishop of Bavaria in 725 AD, that speaks of a church being built at this site during the Byzantine period. "From Tiberias, they went around the sea by the village of Magdala to the village of Capernaum, where our Lord raised the prince’s daughter. And from Capernaum, they went to Bethsaida, from which came Peter and Andrew. There is now a church where previously there was a house.” Evidence of this church, and a monastery, have been discovered at this site. 6. From these biblical, historical, and eyewitness accounts, we learn the following about the location of Bethsaida: During the time of Christ, the community was predominantly Jewish. Peter, Andrew, and Philip originally lived in Bethsaida. It was located right beside the Sea of Galilee. Its name means fishing village. Jesus sailed to and from it regularly. Bethsaida was converted into a Roman Polis city in the first century and urbanized. Later, a Byzantine church was built over the home of Peter and Andrew in the fourth century, and it was still visible in 725 AD, as noted by Willibald. During the Crusader Period, it was venerated and used as a sugar plantation. 7. Three main excavations are happening at this site. The main area is Area A, which began in 2014. Area B began in 2016 and is located 50 meters east of Area A. In 2019, a third area, Area C, was established, located approximately 100 meters west of Area A. 8. In summary, all the archaeological evidence points to the El Araj location as the actual site of Bethsaida. It fits better with the biblical narrative and the historical and archaeological evidence than the traditional site of Et-Tell. Archaeological Evidence at the Site of El Araj From the Jewish Settlement period, we find: Walls and plastering from the first century. Pottery Oil lamps First-century coins Stone vessels used by Jews in purification rituals. Limestone dishes and knife-pared Herodian lamps, which were only made in Jerusalem before 70 AD, provide clear indications of Jewish settlement at el-Araj. First-century homes are also found in area C. Lead fishing weights Galilean pottery Two capitals that resemble those found in use in other early Roman synagogues were unearthed. A Lioness was found, which is common in Jewish communities. From the Roman Period, we find: A key discovery from this period is a Roman Bathhouse with small tiles and mosaics. This bathhouse had an elaborate heating system and was used as a sauna. It proves Bethsaida was converted into a Roman Polis, as a bathhouse of this nature was not found in Jewish communities. The Roman Bathhouse dates back to the first century AD and confirms that the water level was precisely where the Bible indicates it would have been during Christ's time. Bethsaida and the other towns around the Sea of Galilee are on the shoreline as the Bible and archaeology describe them to be. This discovery presents even more problems for the site of ET Tell. Area C was opened in 2019 and reveals that Bethsaida was a large Roman city, as Josephus described it as Julia. A Roman coin from the reign of the Roman Emperor Nero, dating to 66 AD, was also discovered. In the fourth century AD, a Byzantine Church and monastery were built over the homes of Peter and Andrew. A 30-meter section of the Byzantine wall of the monastery was discovered. A Cross was discovered on a Byzantine vessel. The Church described by Willibald was discovered. It was quite elaborate and had mosaic floors. Individual gold-gilded glass tesserae are only found in wall mosaics of ornate churches. A Byzantine Frieze was found. The base of a chancel screen was discovered. In 2019, the excavation team stood side by side to form the outline of the Byzantine Church. In 2024, the Byzantine Church was fully exposed, and the monastery is planned to be exposed in the coming years. Lastly, a Crusader presence is also found at this site. The following items have been discovered: Sugar bowls A glass vase piece A ring, among other discoveries. At the end of the 2019 excavations, a geophysical study was conducted in the vicinity, using electromagnetic sensors operated on the ground and from a drone. The results indicate that this site is quite large, and many houses and buildings are buried, waiting to be uncovered and tell their stories. Now, regarding this site of El Araj being the actual location of biblical Bethsaida, Dr. Steven Notley says: "Every day, the argument gets stronger and stronger. You know, we are preparing, we are coming to the point where you say there's no question now. The question mark is finished, we're on the site of Bethsaida, truly." Historical Background 1. Bethsaida was a fishing village with several hundred inhabitants during the time of Christ. 2. At least 3 of the 12 disciples were from Bethsaida. John 1:44: Now Philip was from Bethsaida, of the city of Andrew and Peter. 3. Later, however, it appears that these disciples moved to Capernaum to be closer to where Jesus lived. Mark 1:21: And they went into Capernaum, and immediately on the Sabbath, he entered the synagogue and was teaching. Mark 1:28: And immediately he left the synagogue and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. And at once his fame spread everywhere throughout all the surrounding region of Galilee. Places of Interest 1. Et-Tell site of Bethsaida – Traditional Location 2. El Araj site of Bethsaida – New Location 3. Feeding of the 5,000 4. Approximate place Jesus walked on the water. 5. Capernaum Bethsaida in the Bible 1. Philip, Andrew, and Peter were from Bethsaida (John 1:44). 2. Jesus healed a blind man at Bethsaida. Mark 8:22–25: And they came to Bethsaida. And some people brought to him a blind man and begged him to touch him. 23 And he took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village, and when he had spit on his eyes and laid his hands on him, he asked him, “Do you see anything?” 24 And he looked up and said, “I see people, but they look like trees, walking.” 25 Then Jesus laid his hands on his eyes again ; and he opened his eyes, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. 3. Bethsaida was one of the three towns Jesus cursed because the people there did not believe in Him after witnessing all His miracles. Matthew 11:21: Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon which were done in you, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. 4. It was near Bethsaida, where Christ fed the 5,000. Luke 9:10–17: When the apostles returned, they gave an account to Him of all that they had done. Taking them with Him, He withdrew by Himself to a city called Bethsaida. 11 But the crowds were aware of this and followed Him; and welcoming them, He began speaking to them about the kingdom of God and curing those who had need of healing. 12 Now the day was ending, and the twelve came and said to Him, “Send the crowd away, that they may go into the surrounding villages and countryside and find lodging and get something to eat; for here we are in a desolate place.” But he said to them, “You give them something to eat.” They said, “We have no more than five loaves and two fish—unless we are to go and buy food for all these people.” 14 For there were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, “Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each.” 15 And they did so, and had them all sit down. 16 And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing over them. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. 17 And they all ate and were satisfied. And what was left over was picked up, twelve baskets of broken pieces. 5. Not far from Bethsaida is where Jesus walked on the water and calmed the sea. Mark 6:45–51: Immediately he made his disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. 46 And after he had taken leave of them, he went up on the mountain to pray. 47 And when evening came, the boat was out on the sea, and he was alone on the land. 48 And he saw that they were making headway painfully, for the wind was against them. And about the fourth watch of the night [the last watch before dawn], he came to them, walking on the sea. He meant to pass by them, 49 but when they saw him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost, and cried out, 50 for they all saw him and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” 51 And he got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased. And they were utterly astounded. Faith Lesson from Bethsaida 1. Like the healing of the blind man, Jesus often heals in different and strange ways. Do we have faith and trust in God regardless of how or if He chooses to heal? 2. Christ cursed the town of Bethsaida because its inhabitants were apathetic, showed unbelief in Christ, and chose not to follow and obey Him. Are we often slow to trust and obey Christ as well? 3. Christ fed the 5,000 in the area of Bethsaida to reveal He was the true bread of life from heaven and that His Word is our spiritual food. In the same way there were 12 baskets of food left over, Christ, as our Bread from Heaven, is also abundant and overflowing in feeding us spiritual food through His Word. Are we eating daily and finding our life in the authentic Bread of Life? 4. Not far from Bethsaida, Jesus walked on the water and calmed the sea. Am I finding rest and peace in Jesus in the midst of my personal storms of life? Isaiah 26:3–4: You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. 4 Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.

What are the differences between Christianity and Islam? Which one is true? There are huge differences that you need to know. Learn all about them in this comprehensive discussion of this important topic. The Differences Between Islam & Christianity What Are the Differences Between Islam and Christianity? Which One Is True? Introduction What are the differences between Islam and Christianity? Which one is true? You will be amazed at the differences! Islam and Christianity are the world's two largest religions. We will explore and show you things you probably don't know about this important topic, so let's explore it and see what we can learn. God Loves All P eople The religion of Islam is primarily made up of Arabs. However, this discussion is not about all Arabs and is not intended to be anti-Arab. I have several Arab friends and have met many Arab people while in the Holy Land who are wonderful folks. God loves all people, and every person is equal and created in the image of God. The Differences Bet ween the Bible and the Quran Details About the Bible 1. It has 1,189 chapters with about 783,000 words. 2. The Bible was written over a period of 1500 years, beginning in 1400 BC and ending in 100 AD. However, it reveals everything from the details of creation at the beginning of time and goes all the way to the end of the world and the creation of the new heavens and earth and eternity future. 3. It was written by around 40 different authors. This is a miracle in and of itself and gives the Bible incredible credibility. The fact that all the accounts harmonize is amazing. 4. It was w ritten on 3 different continents. 5. It is generally chronological in nature and has many different genres. 6. It claims to be inspired by God and is His word to humanity. 7. Jesus affirmed the Bible as God's Word. 8. The Bible contains many, many detailed prophecies. Many of which have come to pass. Details A bout the Quran 1. The Quran consists of 114 chapters, with around 78,000 words in all. It’s about one-tenth the size of the Bible. 2. The Quran was supposedly revealed to Muhammad by an angel (Muslims say it was Gabriel) over a period of around 22 years, beginning in around 61 0 AD and ending in 632 AD. 3. It is not chronologically written. It has the longer chapters at the beginning and the shorter chapters towards the end. 4. Muhammad, who received the so-called revelations, was illiterate and did not write any of the Quran. It was written after Muhammad died from accounts he shared with others. 5. It appears the Quran used other sources known at the time that are included in it. 6. It has some of the same characters as the Bible but changes many things about them. 7. It claims to be inspired by Allah and is his word to humanity. 8. The Quran contains just a few general prophecies . 9. Muslims claim the Quran has been unchanged during the past 1400 years of its existence. However, this is not true at all. There have been many different versions of the Quran, with thousands of differences among them. It's only since 1985 that there has been a universal Quran that is used worldwide by Muslims. Observation About the Quran Logically, why would God wait until 610 AD to reveal His will to mankind? What about the thousands of years of history before this time? How were people supposed to relate to their Creator? This fact about the Quran is very problematic and makes God out to be extremely irresponsible. The Roots of Christianity and Islam Both Christianity and Islam have their roots in Abraham and his offspring. Therefore, it's vital that we carefully look at this issue. While both faiths share the same roots, they have totally different beliefs regarding the Abrahamic Covenant and its meaning. We'll mainly be looking at the Bible's account of this covenant because this is where it's mainly found. The Abrahamic Covenant consists of three promises God established with Abraham. 1. A Land 2. A Nation or People 3. A Lineage – Through the lineage of Isaac would come Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. The Abrahamic Covenant The Abrahamic Covenant is given numerous times in Genesis chapters 12-17 and continually reaffirmed throughout both the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. You will notice that the Bible uses the name Abram before it is later changed to Abraham, which means father of many nations. God promises a land and a people: Genesis 13:14-17 The Lord said to Abram, after Lot had separated from him, “Lift up your eyes and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward, 15 for all the land that you see I will give to you and to your offspring forever . 16 I will make your offspring as the dust of the earth, so that if one can count the dust of the earth, your offspring also can be counted. 17 Arise, walk throug h the length and the breadth of the land, for I will give it to you.” God promises Abraham a son: Genesis 15:18 On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying, “To your offspring I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the river Euphrates. After waiting a long time without Abraham and Sarah having a child, Sarah tries to fulfill this promise through her handmaid, Hagar. The birth of Ishmael: Genesis16:11-12 After Hagar gave birth to Ishmael, there arose bitterness between Sarah and Hagar. Then God describes the kind of person Ishmael would be. “Behold, you [Hagar] are pregnant and shall bear a son. You shall call his name Ishmael, because the Lord has listened to your affliction. 12 He shall be a wild donkey of a man, his hand against everyone and everyone’s hand against him, and he shall dwell over against all his kinsmen.” What do we see here? 1. The bitterness between Sarah and Hagar begins the conflict we see today. Later, this bitterness would include Ishmael and Isaac. 2. Ishmael will be a wild donkey of a man and will be against everyone and everyone against him. We certainly see this throughout history. The fulfillment of the Abrahamic Covenant would come through Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah, not through Ishmael. Genesis 17:15-22: And God said to Abraham, “As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. 16 I will bless her, and moreover, I will give you a son by her. I will bless her, and she shall become nations; kings of peoples shall come from her.” 17 Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed and said to himself, “Shall a child be born to a man who is a hundred years old? Shall Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?” 18 And Abraham said to God, “Oh that Ishmael might live before you!” 19 God said, “No, but Sarah your wife shall bear you a son, and you shall call his name Isaac. I will establish my covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his offspring after him. 20 As for Ishmael, I have heard you; behold, I have blessed him and will make him fruitful and multiply him greatly. He shall father twelve princes, and I will make him into a great nation. 21 But I will establish my covenant with Isaac, whom Sarah shall bear to you at this time next year.” 22 When he had finished talking with him, God went up from Abraham. What do we see here? 1. The Abrahamic Covenant, an everlasting covenant, would be through Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah. God’s covenant would not be through Ishmael. 2. Ishmael would be the father of a great multitude, which are the Arab people. 3. Through the Abrahamic Covenant, fulfilled in Isaac, would come Jesus Christ, the prophesied Savior. Galatians 3:13-14, 16: Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us—for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”— 14 in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham would come to the Gentiles , so that we would receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. 16 Now the promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed . He does not say, “And to seeds,” as one would in referring to many, but rather as in referring to one, “And to your seed,” that is, Christ. Galatians 3:29: And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's offspring , heirs according to promise. What do we see here? 1. The genealogies of the Bible, which oftentimes we think are boring, are so important. They prove that Jesus Christ fulfills the lineage aspect of the Abrahamic Covenant that dates back to around 4,000 years. 2. P rophecy is what sets the Bible apart from any other writing. It contains very specific, detailed prophecies. So, in summary, the Abrahamic Covenant, which is the major storyline of the Bible, includes three major aspects: 1. A Land through Abraham’s son, Isaac, and his offspring, which today is known as the Holy Land. 2. A Nation or people through Abraham’s son, Isaac, and his offspring, which today are called the Jews or Israelis. 3. A Lineage – Through the lineage of Isaac would come Christ, the Savior of the world. The Ro ots of Islam The religion of Islam, which came into being in around 610 AD, completely denies the Bible’s storyline and radically changes it. Muslims believe that the angel Gabriel appeared to Mohamad and gave him a number of revelations from around 610-632 AD. The Quran and Muslim theology believe the following: 1. The Abrahamic Covenant was intended for Ishmael and his offspring, not Isaac and his offspring. 2. The Holy Land is for Ishmael and his offspring, not Isaac and his offspring. 3. The promise of a nation or people is through Ishmael and his offspring, not Isaac and his offspring. 4. Jesus Christ is not the Savior but just a prophet, and Mohamad is greater than Jesus and is the last prophet. 5. I t denies the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. 6. It believes the Bible is corrupted and that the Quran is the true revelation from God. Note: This Muslim belief cannot be true because the Dead Sea Scrolls, written around 100 BC, 700 years before Mohamad, verify that the Old Testament we have today is the same as what was written in the Dead Sea Scrolls. Also, Islam does more than just claim the Bible has been corrupted. It denies about 95% of the Bible is even true. For example, the New Testament's main theme is that salvation is through Jesus Christ and how to live and serve Him as a result. Islam denies all this. So, saying the Bible has been corrupted is not an accurate statement. The truth is that Islam rejects virtually all of the Bible and what it teaches. 6. Mohamad is the main example of how we should live. This even includes marrying children, as Mohamad married a 6-year-old girl when he was 51 and then consummated the marriage (had sex with her) when she was 10 years old. Marrying children is extremely common among Muslims. The Difference Between Jesus and Muhammad 1. Jesus performed every kind of miracle to show He was Lord of every aspect of creation. Muhammad performed no miracles. Here are the kinds of miracles Christ performed: He healed all kinds of sickness. He had power over the demons and the demonic world. He had power over the weather and calmed the sea. He had power over nature and cursed a fig tree, and it died. He had power over animals – He cast demons into a herd of swine, performed miraculous catches of fish, and rode into Jerusalem on an untamed donkey. He had power over food – He fed 5,000 and 4,000 people. He had power over death – He raised a number of people from the dead and rose from the dead Himself. He had the power to forgive sins (Mark 2:10). Only God can forgive sins. 2. Jesus fulfilled countless detailed prophecies spoken of in the Old Testament. Muhammad fulfilled no prophecies spoken of in the Old Testament. In fact, his name is not even mentioned. 3. Jesus claimed to be God in the flesh. Muhammad made no such claim. 4. Jesus lived a perfect, sinless life. Muham mad was sinful and had a very troubling life. 5. Jesus died for the sins of all mankind. Muhammad did not. 6. Jesus was never married. Mohammed had eleven wives. 7. Jesus had a supernatural birth through Mary, a virgin. Muhammad's birth was natural. 8. The death, burial, and resurrection of Christ are historical facts that can be proven by history, eyewitness accounts, many extra-biblical sources, and archaeology. Muhammad denied all these facts and said they were lies. 9. Jesus rose from His grave and ascended back to heaven. Muhammad did no such thing. What Does the Quran Teach About Jesus? Now, because Jesus is the center of the entire storyline of the Bible, performed countless miracles, fulfilled countless prophecies, fulfilled the Abrahamic Covenant lineage, was crucified for our sins, rose from the dead, claimed to be God in the flesh, and that salvation from our sins only comes through Jesus, the Savior of the world, let’s look at what the Quran says about Jesus. This is what the Quran says about Jesus: Jesus is not the Son of God. Quran 19:88-92: And they (Christians) say, “The Most Merciful has begotten son ?” 89. You (Christians) have come up with something monstrous. 90. At which the heavens almost rupture, and the earth splits, and the mountains fall and crumble. 91. Because they (Christians) attribute a son to the Most Merciful. 92. It is not fitting for the Most Merciful to have a son. Jesus did not die on the Cross for our sins. Quran 4:157: And for their saying, “We have killed the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary, the Messenger of God.” In fact, they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him, but it appeared to them as if they did. Indeed, those who differ about him are in doubt about it. They have no knowledge of it, except the following of assumptions. Certainly, they did not kill him. Unbelievers are those who believe Jesus was the Messiah. Quran 5:17. They disbelieve those who say, “God is the Christ, the son of Mary .” Those who believe Jesus is the Messiah are cursed by Allah. Quran 9:30. The Jews said, “Ezra is the son of God (which is not true),” and the Christians said, “The Messiah is the son of God.” These are their statements, out of their mouths. They emulate the statements of those who blasphemed before. May Allah assail them! How deceived they are! 31. They have taken their rabbis and their priests as lords instead of Allah, as well as the Messiah son of Mary. According to Muslims, the Angel Gabriel revealed the Quran to Mohamad. Interestingly, what the Angel Gabriel said in the Bible about Jesus is totally opposite of what Muslims believe he said to Mohamad. Luke 1:26-33 says: Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David [who is the descendant of Isaac]; and the virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And coming in, he said to her, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” 29 But she was very perplexed at this statement, and was pondering what kind of greeting this was. 30 And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and give birth to a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High ; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; 33 and He will reign over the house of Jacob [son of Isaac] forever, and His kingdom will have no end.” Islam teaches that salvation is not through Jesus Christ. Islam denies that salvation is attained through believing in the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ and that Jesus did all this to be a sacrifice for our sins. That salvation is a free gift given when we believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. In Islam, salvation comes through keeping the five pillars of Islam. Salvation in Islam is through works. Salvation in the Bible is a free gift offered by Jesus Christ, our sacrifice for sins. What Does the Bible Say About Those Who deny the Bible’s Claims about Jesus Christ? 1 John 2:22-23: Who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist , the one who denies the Father and the Son. Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father; the one who confesses the Son has the Father also. 2 John 1:7: For many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the antichrist. Jude 1:3: Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all time handed down to the saints. Galatians 1:6-9: I am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ, for a different gospel, 7 which is not just another account; but there are some who are disturbing you and want to distort the Gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed! 9 As we have said before, even now I say again: if anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to what you received, he is to be accursed! The Bible claims you can only tr uly know God and be saved by believing and embracing Jesus. 1 John 5:11-13: And the testimony is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 The one who has the Son has the life; the one who does not have the Son of God does not have the life. 13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life. The Bible claims there is only one way to salvation. Acts 4:12: And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among mankind by which we must be saved.” What do we see here? 1. According to the Bible, the religion of Islam is cursed because an angel revealed a different gospel to Mohamad than what was already revealed in the Bible. 2. The Bible claims that there is no other truth and Gospel but that found in the Bible and that it was given once and for all. Islam states just the opposite and contradicts the Bible. 3. Someone who is anti-Christ denies Jesus is the Savior, denies God is His Father, and denies Jesus came in the flesh. The religion of the Antichrist will do the same. 4. As you can see, what the Quran says about Jesus is entirely different than what the Bible says. Therefore, it could not be the Angel Gabriel who revealed any revelation to Mohamad. The problem with believing Jesus was a prophet or great teacher. Bible prophesies claim Jesus was God in the flesh. Also, Jesus claimed to be God in the flesh. Isaiah 9:6: For to us a child [Jesus Christ] is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father , Prince of Peace. John 8:56-59: Your father Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day. He saw it and was glad.” 57 So the Jews said to him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen Abraham?” 58 Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am [same Hebrew word God said to Moses when Moses asked Him who he should tell the Egyptians sent him].” 59 So they picked up stones to throw at him, but Jesus hid himself and went out of the temple. John 10:31-33: The Jews picked up stones again to stone him. 32 Jesus answered them, “I have shown you many good works from the Father; for which of them are you going to stone me?” 33 The Jews answered him, “It is not for a good work that we are going to stone you but for blasphemy, because you, being a man, make yourself God.” T here are three options about who Jesus said He was: 1. He was a liar. 2. He was a lunatic. 3. He was who He claimed to be. We can’t believe Jesus was just a prophet because a prophet wouldn’t be a liar or lunatic. The only logical conclusion is that Jesus Christ is indeed who He and the Bible claim Him to be. The Bible’s Claim About Islam According to the Bible, Islam is completely opposite to what the Bible teaches and is an antichrist religion. This explains why they hate Christians and Jews so much. The Jews believe in the Old Testament, and Christians believe in both the Old and New Testaments. Will the coming Antichrist be a Muslim? Many believe that the Antichrist will be a Muslim. This makes sense as Islam theology believes in a coming world leader called Mahdi. He will make a peace treaty for seven years, rule from the temple in Jerusalem, intend to kill all Jews and Christians and force all people to worship Allah. This Mahdi is exactly what the Bible describes as the Antichrist. Also, there is no other religion that is so against Christians and Jews like Islam. Additionally, Muslims believe Jesus will return to earth from heaven. But in their version of Jesus, he returns as a Muslim and will tell all the Christians that what the Bible says about him is wrong. He will destroy Christianity and demand that everyone convert to Islam and set up Islam as the one world faith. As you can see, Islam is anti-Bible and totally changes what the Bible teaches about the Abrahamic Covenant, which includes a land, a people, and a lineage. And most importantly, it teaches that Jesus was not who the Bible claims He is. Jesus warned about this when He was on earth. In Matthew 24:3-5, when Jesus was talking about the end times it says: “Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” 4 And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceives you . 5 For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. What Islam teaches is the very thing Jesus warned believers to be on the lookout for and not to be deceived by it. Islamic World Conquest Through Jihad Explains the Conflicts in Israel The theology of Musli ms is to conquer the world for Allah and institute Muslim rule over the entire world. This rule is also known as Sharia Law. After this is done, they say, then peace will finally come to the world. This is why, since the inception of Islam, Muslims have been engaged in conquering land for Allah. This can be clearly seen in its nearly 1500-year-old history. Therefore, Islam is a violent faith that conquers lands and peoples for Allah by whatever means necessary, as taught in the Quran. We can see this in the following quotes and teachings of Islam. 1. World conquest and Jihad is taught in the Quran and Islamic theology. Quran 8:60: And prepare against them all the power you can muster, and all the cavalry you can mobilize , to thereby Allah’s enemies and your enemies. By using terrorism, governments and people yield to Muslims because of fear. They see the horrifying acts of terrorism and don’t want to make the devoted Muslims angry so they won’t be terrorized. Quran 8:39: Fight them until there is no more persecution, and religion becomes exclusively for Allah. But if they desist—Allah is Seeing of what they do. Quran 47:4: When you encounter those who disbelieve, strike at their necks. Then, when you have routed them, bind them firmly. Then, either release them by grace, or by ransom, until war lays down its burdens. Had Allah willed, He could have defeated them Himself, but He thus tests some of you by means of others. As for those who are killed in the way of Allah, He will not let their deeds go to waste. Quran 9:14: Fight them. Allah will punish them at your hands, and humiliate them, and help you against them , and heal the hearts of a believing people. Quran 9:29: Fight those who do not believe in Allah. The theology of Islam promotes the raping and sexual slavery of women if it’s done in connection with Jihad. That’s why the men are generally killed, and the women taken into slavery. 2. Jihad groups, like Hamas, use as part of their warfare, placing their rockets and military operations behind women, children, schools, hospitals, mosques, and so forth. This way, when these places are targeted and destroyed, they can cry out that horrific abuses have been done to their innocent places and people. 3. According to the current leader of the Palestinian Liberation Organization, Mahmoud Abbas, no Jews would be allowed to live in the land of Israel unless they converted to Muslim if a State of Palestine was created. This is completely opposite to what the state of Israel allows. Israel has many Arab citizens, has Arabs in their government leadership, and allows for complete freedom of religion. 4. According to a Muslim statement, Muslims should not submit to any form of government that is not Muslim, and no non-Muslim government has the right to rule Muslims. And if they do, Muslims have the duty to dislodge non-Muslim governments from power by any means possible. 5. Under Muslim-run countries, there is no separation of church and state. The government rules as a theocracy for Allah. This is also known as Sharia Law. 6. When Muslims conquer countries, they persecute and pressure non-Muslims to convert, or life will become unbearable for them, even to the point of execution. 7. They also destroy all religious sites like churches, synagogues, and so forth. They do this to show dominance and conquest. This is why they built the Dome of the Rock exactly over where the temple once stood on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. 8. In Islamic Jihad, it is okay to lie to defeat non-Muslims. This is partly what happened with the recent Hamas invasion of Israel at the time of this filming in 2023, where they killed around 1,400 people and kidnapped around 220 people. They told Israel they wanted peace. Therefore, Israel let their guard down and were deceived. 9. It is also commonly promoted that Islam is a peaceful religion. This is done to deceive the ignorant. History and Muslim theology clearly state that Islam’s purpose is to conquer the world for Allah through Jihad, which is war by all means necessary. 10. There are also terrorism and death sentences in Islam for those who leave Islam or convert to another religion. This includes honor killings, imprisonment, and persecution within Muslim-run countries. I have personal Arabic friends living in Israel who have left Islam and are under threat from family members and other Muslims who want to kill them. 11. Many Arabs and Arab Muslims just want to live in peace and live their lives. However, the devoted Islamic Jihadists are the ones causing most of the trouble. That’s why when peace agreements are made between Israel and Arabs, the Jihadists increase their terrorism. This was clearly evidenced by the OSLO agreement that President Bill Clinton oversaw. The peaceful Muslims don’t do or say anything contrary to the Jihadists out of fear for their lives. So, it’s the devoted Jihadists who control most of the Arab countries. Again, the goal of the devoted Jihadists is to conquer the world for Allah. 12. The devoted Jihadists reject peace because, in their view, peace is losing ground and yielding power. According to them, it stops the progress of conquering the world for Allah. 13. The Islamic Resistance Movement, also known as Hamas, is a Palestinian Islamist militant group founded in 1987. The group’s primary objective is to establish an independent Islamic state in all the Holy Land. To accomplish their purpose, they want to eliminate Israel from the Holy Land. Hamas is known for its armed resistance against Israel and has been designated as a terrorist organization by many countries. 14. The group’s charter calls for the destruction of Israel and the establishment of an Islamic society in what they call “historic Palestine.” Hamas has been governing more than two million Arabs in the Gaza Strip since 2007. 15. In summary, the Quran, Muslim theology, Mohamad’s life, and Muslim history all call for Jihad to punish and fight for Allah in the conquest of the world. Quran 9:14: Fight them. Allah will punish them at your hands, and humiliate them, and help you against them , and heal the hearts of a believing people. This is what the Bible says about Islamic Jihad. John 16:2-3: They will ban you from the synagogue, yet an hour is coming for everyone who kills you to think that he is offering a service to God . 3 These things they will do because they have not known the Father nor Me. Faith Lesson 1. Islam is totally contrary to the Bible and denies about 95% of it. 2. Islam denies the main themes of both the Old and New Testaments. 3. Islam denies Jesus Christ was who He claimed to be and did not die on the Cross for our sins. Therefore, according to the Bible, Islam is an antichrist religion. 4. Islam teaches salvation by works, and Christianity teaches salvation by grace through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. 5. While oftentimes Islam is claimed to be a peaceful religion, this is really not the case. The Quran teaches violence and conquest of the world for Allah and Islam. 6. The main source of the conflicts moving forward will come from Islamic-run countries. Their goal is to conquer the world for Allah by whatever means necessary. This includes every kind of terror imaginable. Therefore, they will be the main players in events moving forward. 7 . It’s very logical a nd probable that the Antichrist will be a Muslim. As we have seen, in Muslim theology, a prophesied future Muslim leader will rule from the Temple Mount over the entire world for seven years. 8. God loves both the Jews and Muslims, and for that matter, all people and desires that everyone comes to salvation through Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 3:9: The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish , but that all should reach repentance.

The story of Noah’s Ark is one of the most intriguing stories known to mankind. It can be found in around 200 different accounts around the world on almost every continent.Overwhelming evidence can be seen today for what is believed to be the site of Noah's Ark. Of all the stories in the Bible, Noah’s Ark and the flood are the most controversial. Is it all true and did it really happen? How did it happen? And if it is true, is there evidence for the existence of Noah’s Ark? Noah's Ark Location Noah's Ark This name means Noah's Ark Noah's Ark Scan 3 Noah's Ark 1/42 Noah's Ark & the Great Flood The story of Noah’s Ark is one of the most intriguing stories known to mankind. It can be found in around 200 different accounts around the world and on almost every continent. However, many people today believe Noah’s Ark and the Flood are just myths or some altered version of ancient beliefs. Of all the stories in the Bible, Noah’s Ark and the Great Flood is one of the most controversial. Is it all true? Did it really happen? How did it happen? And if it’s true, is there evidence of the Flood and the existence of Noah’s Ark today? I believe you will be fascinated and touched by the amount of evidence that exists for the truthfulness of Noah’s Ark and the Bible’s account of all that took place surrounding this catastrophic event. The Great Flood account is mentioned in writings or oral traditions found all around the world. The Great Flood Account is referred to in around 200 accounts. These flood legends are common across a wide range of cultures, extending back into Bronze Age and Neolithic prehistory. These accounts depict a flood, sometimes global in scale, usually sent by a deity or deities to destroy civilization as an act of divine retribution. They are found on virtually every continent and share very similar themes. This is so because Noah’s descendants stayed together until God confused their languages at Babel and they scattered as found in Genesis 11. As the various people groups spread around the globe, the story of the Flood was shared, until it became distorted and embedded in their respective histories. The oldest known recording of a global flood is the Babylonian Epic of Gilgamesh from the eighteenth-century BC. The Biblical Account of Noah and the Great Flood is the Most Complete and Trustworthy Account The most significant, complete, and trustworthy account is found in the Bible in Genesis chapters 6–8. Noah and the Great Flood are mentioned 47 times in the Bible. With references in 9 different books of the Bible such as Genesis, 1 Chronicles, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Matthew, Luke, Hebrews, and 1 Peter & 2 Peter. This means Moses, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Jesus, the Apostle Peter, and other biblical writers all attest to the truthfulness of this catastrophic event as literal and real. What is very notable is the fact that Jesus referenced Noah and the Flood 5 times in the Gospel accounts. This is weighty evidence to the reality of Noah’s Ark and the Great Flood because Jesus referred to it as being a literal event, not some myth or fairy tale. Places of Interest 1. Noah’s Ark National Park 2. Noah’s Ark Location 3. Noah’s Ark Visitor Center 4. Drogue – Anchor Stones 5. Noah’s Home 6. Noah’s Altar & Corrals 7. Mountains of Ararat 8. Mount Ararat 9. Wall of Heaven Site 10. Crow Won’t Land Site 11. Village of the Eight History of the Durupinar Site of Noah’s Ark We’ll now look at a brief history of this site and then look at the overwhelming evidence supporting this place as the best candidate for the location of Noah’s Ark. 1. In recent years it has been named after Turkish Army Captain Ilhan Durupinar, who shot an aerial photo of the site while on a mapping mission for NATO in October 1959. Durupinar informed the Turkish government of his discovery, and a group from the Archeological Research Foundation, which included George Vandeman, Ilhan Durupinar, and Arthur Brandenberger, professor of photogrammetry, surveyed the site in September 1960. After two days of digging and dynamiting inside the “boat-shaped” formation, the expedition members found only soil and rocks. Their official news release concluded that “there were no visible archaeological remains” and that this formation “was a freak of nature and not man-made.” 2. However, long before Durupinar photographed this site, there is evidence going back thousands of years of people venerating this area. We see evidence of carvings, writings, relics, stele, ostraca, drogue stones, name locations, the size and shape of the Ark in the landscape, and so forth. This evidence begins with Noah and continues to the early Christians, the Crusaders, and later. It all attests that this site seems to be the genuine place of Noah’s Ark. 3. After Durupinar’s time, the site was then ignored until 1977, when interest in it was renewed again and promoted by biblical researcher and explorer Ron Wyatt. Throughout the 1980s, Wyatt repeatedly tried to interest other people in the site, including ark hunter and former astronaut James Irwin and creationist John D. Morris. 4. In 1985, Wyatt was joined by David Fasold, and geophysicist John Baumgardner. This expedition is recounted in Fasold’s book, “The Ark of Noah.” As soon as Fasold saw the site, he exclaimed that it was a shipwreck. Fasold brought along state-of-the-art ground-penetrating radar equipment and a “frequency generator.” He put it on the wavelength setting for iron at the site and searched the formation for internal iron. Fasold and the team state that the ground penetration radar revealed a regular internal structure beneath the surface. Fasold believed the team found the fossilized remains of the upper deck and that the original reed substructure had disappeared. In the nearby village of Kazan, formerly called Arzap, they examined so-called drogue and anchor stones that they believed were once attached to the ark. Fasold kept repeating that no matter what the experts said, there was too much evidence at the Durupinar site for it to be dismissed. He remained convinced it was the fossilized remains of Noah’s Ark. 5. Due to the amount of evidence, in 1987, the Turkish government declared the site to be Noah’s Ark, and a Visitor Center was constructed. It was preserved and called “Noah’s Ark National Park.” 6. From 1987 to 1997, Ron Wyatt and others like Allen Roberts, Andrew Snelling, and David Fasold continued to research the site. It should be noted that Ron Wyatt was the most influential person who worked the hardest and was the most involved in the research and promotion of this site. In 1998 Fasold died, and in 1999, Wyatt died as well. 7. In 1997, Andrew Jones visited this site and would later become the main researcher and promoter of this site. 8. In late 2014, the Turkish government granted permission to allow the site of the boat-shaped object to be scanned using the latest deep penetration resistivity ground imaging technique known as Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT). The scans were carried out by John Larson. This was the first time equipment able to reach 125 ft. or 38 m. deep with sufficient resolution was used on the site to acquire 3D images of the structure that remains beneath the ground. Resistivity imaging is a technique that was developed during the 1920s, for deep oil and mineral exploration. More recently, new equipment has become available with vastly improved resolution capabilities, to the extent where now it has become an effective tool in the field of archaeology. Using this technology, John Larson did major work on the site in 2014 to produce scans that appear to provide more evidence that this site is a man-made object that fits the biblical measurements and descriptions of Noah’s Ark. 9. In 2015, Andrew Armstrong became the key biblical researcher and liaison between the Turkish government and foreign interests. In fact, Andrew is the one who has generously provided us with much of the media of the site to produce this video. Andrew is an American but lives in Turkey and resides about 11 miles or 17 km. from the Durupinar Site. 10. In 2017, the Noah’s Ark Visitor Center was renovated to accommodate tourists better. Another renovation of the Visitor Center is planned for the coming years as well. 11. In 2019, the Science Channel did a documentary on the site called: “Forbidden History.” 12. In 2019, ground-penetrating radar (GPR) surveys were conducted at the site by an Oregon-based business called Topa 3D. Their surveys showed further evidence supporting this site as Noah’s Ark. 13. In 2021, Ryan Mauro, president of the Doubting Thomas Research Foundation, which is a non-profit organization dedicated to investigating the historicity of biblical accounts, became involved in the site as well. 14. Currently, the Turkish government is working on its own scans. They are working in conjunction with Andrew Armstrong. 15. Plans are underway to do excavations of the boat-shaped object in the coming years. Evidence Supporting this Site as Noah’s Ark Now let’s look at the evidence supporting the Durupinar Site as the best candidate for the location of Noah’s Ark. 1. It’s in the mountains of Ararat as the Bible states. Genesis 8:4 says: Then in the seventh month, on the seventeenth day of the month, the ark rested upon the mountains of Ararat. Notice that the Ark came to rest in the mountains of Ararat. It doesn’t say it came to rest on the Mountain of Ararat, as some claim. This means it came to rest in the region of Ararat. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica: The name Ararat, as it appears in the Bible, is the Hebrew equivalent of Urardhu, or Urartu, the Assyro-Babylonian name of a kingdom that flourished between the Aras and the Upper Tigris rivers from the 9th to the 7th century BC. The Bible also confirms that Ararat was a kingdom at one time: Jeremiah 51:27: “Set up a standard on the earth; blow the trumpet among the nations; prepare the nations for war against her; summon against her the kingdoms, Ararat, Minni, and Ashkenaz; appoint a marshal against her; bring up horses like bristling locusts. 2. Evidence from the boat-shaped object. It fits the general Ark dimensions of 300 cubits long by 50 cubits wide by 30 cubits high. Its length is exactly 300 royal cubits, which is 515 feet long or 157 m. Its width is larger than 50 royal cubits, which is 86 ft. or 26.21 m. The ruins today measure 138 ft. or 42 m. wide. This extra width has been explained by understanding that the sides of the Ark fell outward as it decayed or that the 50 cubits were an average width of the Ark, not its width at its widest point. Three distinct layers or decks have been discovered from different geophysical scans, ground penetrating radars, and electrical resistivity images taken over the years. These scans reveal these layers only within the ship-shaped object and not outside of it. An earthquake in 1978 lowered the sides outside of the Ark considerably. Images taken before and afterward clearly reveal a change to the sides of the proposed Ark shape. Many believe the sides now reveal several vertical rib-timbers used in the Ark’s construction. Ron Wyatt dug a 6-inch round shaft tunnel into the side of the Ark-shaped formation and claimed to have found petrified animal dung, deer antlers, cat hair, human hair, and other fibers. Metal detector tests taken numerous times over the years all reveal a very distinct organized pattern of metal beneath the surface, which is consistent with the shape of a large ship. Four intact metal rods have been discovered by the Turkish government, each measuring about 4 ft. or 1.2 m. in length. In June of 1991, an interesting object was discovered, which seems to be a large rivet with a washer around it. It was believed to fasten the large timbers of the Ark together. An analysis of the rivet object showed it was made of various metals such as titanium, aluminum, iron, and other metals. Interestingly, just centimeters away from the rivet object, there were no traces of iron in the soil. The Encyclopedia Britannica tells us that because of its chemical activity, aluminum never occurs in the metallic form in nature. It should be noted that the Bible affirms the knowledge and use of iron in Genesis 4:22. It says: As for Zillah, she also gave birth to Tubal-cain, the forger of all implements of bronze and iron. Therefore, Noah certainly had access to iron for building the Ark. During a radar scan done by Ron Wyatt in the presence of the local Turkish governor, something unique seemed to appear. The Turkish governor ordered a soldier to dig up the ground, and a petrified piece of wood was uncovered. It was later tested and revealed it was indeed organic in nature and appeared to be four layers of wood laminated together. This is believed by some to be part of a deck timber. Even more surprising were laboratory analyses which not only revealed that the petrified wood contained carbon proving it was once wood, but there were iron nails embedded in the wood! The Turkish government also claims they have found additional petrified wood at the site. As mentioned, John Larson carried out Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) in 2014, which provides 3D images that are quite convincing that under the surface of the boat-shaped object are what appear to be different decks and structures of a ship. Researcher Andrew Jones and lead scientist Dr. Fethi Ahmet Yüksel of the Department of Geophysical Engineering, along with Applied Geophysics Department of Istanbul University, believe that the results of the scans indicate a man-made artifact beneath the surface that could well be the Ark, and are eager to continue studying the location. The team believes that the new GPR data shows parallel lines and angular structures 8 to 20 feet down and that these parallel lines and right angles below the surface are something you would not expect to see in a natural, geologic formation. Using 3D scans of GPR and ERT technology, the researchers claim that they uncovered a man-made boat structure beneath the ground. The formation identified in the scans, according to the team, matches the dimensions of the Genesis description of Noah’s Ark. Plans are underway to carry out Orthophoto photography, LiDAR imaging, and related mapping studies using aerial drones (UAV) in the region designated as Noah’s Ark. Core drilling plans are also underway for the boat-shaped object as well. 3. Drogue and Anchor Stones These drogue and anchor stones were used as ship stabilizers to better withstand storms and cause drag, so ships weren’t driven and tossed on the oceans. Found in this area are around 30 of these drogue and anchor stones. They are found scattered along a path running west to east. It appears as the waters were receding, the drogue stones began hitting the land under the water, so they were cut loose. The remaining stones are generally in the area where the Ark eventually came to rest. Many of these stones have holes carved in them for connecting ropes from the Ark to the stones. Some of the holes have broken over the years in some of the stones. These drogue stones were continually used in ancient times after the Flood and can be found in places like Israel and the Nile River in Egypt. Many of these stones in the vicinity of the Durupinar site have holes in them that ropes were tied to in order to stabilize the Ark. These drogue stones are over 200 miles from the closest ocean and about 5,300 ft. or 1,615 m. above sea level. They have no business being here other than that a huge ship like the Ark dropped them here. The numerous stones discovered near the Durupinar Site are the largest ever discovered in the world. This would make sense as the Ark was massive in size and would need extra-large stones to stabilize it. Many of these stones have crosses carved on them from early Christians visiting this site, and others have crosses that are from the Crusader Period from around 1200 AD. Some of the stones have eight crosses on them, representing Noah and his family that were saved from the Flood. Several of the stones have been used as grave markers as well. One of these stones has an ancient carving that appears to be the Tower of Babel. Another stone has unknown ancient writings on it that have yet to be interpreted and translated. All these carvings reveal that this site was venerated long ago and visited by religious people for thousands of years. Another large stone is believed to have been used as a sounding stone for measuring the depth of the water under the Ark. 4. The names of the surrounding places affirm this site as Noah’s Ark location. Village of the Eight – This village was named after Noah and his family that God saved from the Flood. It used to be called Kazan and today is called Goller. Kargaconmaz – Means: The crow or bird won’t land. This refers to Noah letting birds out of the Ark to see if there was dry land. Ziyaret Dagi – Means: To make a voluntary pilgrimage. This likely refers to the pilgrimage of Noah and his family aboard the Ark. Uzengili Town – This was formerly called Mahser, which means: To be drawn out of the water or judgment day. The name Moses has the same root. In Genesis 10:30, it says regarding the descendants of Noah: Now their settlement extended from Mesha going toward Sephar, the hill country of the east. Mesha shares the same root word as Mahser. Mahser Location – This has the same meaning as the town of Uzengili but is the location of the area. Nasar – Means: To make a sacrifice. This likely refers to the sacrifices Noah made to God in worship after he and his family were saved from the Flood. Yigityatagi – Means: Hero’s anchorage. This refers to the place where the drogue and anchor stones came to rest in this area of the mountains of Ararat. Arz-zapt (Arzap) – Means: To capture the earth. In the Semitic version of Arz-zapt, which is Eretz-tsab, means: To cling to the earth. These names are linked to the place where the Ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat. The name for this town today is Sagliksuyu and is where some drogue stones, the ruins of Noah’s house, and Noah’s altar are located. Nuhun Gemisi – This name means Noah’s Ark in Turkish. It is referred to as the location of Noah’s Ark today, and road signs placed by the government use it to mark the route to Noah’s Ark National Park. 5. Due to the history and evidence at the Durupinar Site, the Turkish government designated this place as Noah’s Ark National Park. This gives more weight to this site as the location of the Ark. 6. There are many road signs today and from the past that mark this site as genuine. 7. Interestingly, what is believed to be the remains of Noah’s home, the grave of Noah’s wife, gravestone markers, a stream by Noah’s home that would have provided water for planting crops, vineyards, and animal husbandry, and a large rock that many believe was the altar Noah used for sacrificing animals to God has been discovered in the town of Arzap. The remains of Noah’s home are believed to be located here in this area. It was once somewhat erected but has been torn down over the years by treasure hunters. A sarcophagus was discovered by Ron Wyatt, which is a stone coffin or a container to hold a coffin that had skeletal remains of a person who was about 15 ft. or 4.5 m. tall. It’s believed before the Flood that people and animals were much bigger as they lived longer. The remains are believed to be those of Noah’s wife. The sarcophagus has been hauled off by treasure hunters and sold on the black market. However, its depression in the ground is still visible today. It’s also believed the jewelry she was wearing was robbed and sold on the black market for millions of dollars. Some of the skeletal remains have survived and reveal the size of the person who was in the grave. Two tombstones were found in front of what’s believed to be Noah’s home. On one of the tombstones found by Ron Wyatt, it had carvings of 8 people, a rainbow, and a dove on it. This tombstone is believed to be that of Noah’s wife, as the second-largest person is looking downward with their eyes closed. Remains of ancient corrals have been discovered where it’s possible Noah kept his animals are nearby, along with a stream, pastures, and so forth that could have been used by Noah and his family. A large rock nearby is believed to be an altar Noah could have used for animal sacrifice after the Flood. 8. There have been found in the area around the site many sea life fossils and an abundance of sea coral that give evidence that this area was once underwater for a significant period of time. This would match the Genesis account of the Great Flood as found in the Bible. 9. Broken remains of an ancient stele, which is a stone or wooden slab erected in the ancient world as a monument, were claimed to have been found on top of a ridge near the Iranian border by Ron Wyatt. The broken pieces were quite large, and most were exposed, which allowed Ron to photograph them for later piecing together. This stele contained numerous inscriptions of what looked like 3 different forms of writing. One segment was particularly legible. This was a scene depicting the unique ridge just above the site, a mountain peak in the background, a ship with 8 faces in it, and 2 ravens (one flying above the ship and one above the mountain.) The rest of the inscription featured several animals. But the importance of the stele was that the shape of the boat was almost identical to the 1950s aerial photo of the boat-shaped object. The 8 faces within the boat needed little explanation according to Wyatt. But most importantly, this stele was just beyond the site where Ron had found the 120 x 40-foot section he believed to be a portion of the bottom of the ship. He would study the inscription more later, but at that time, it appeared to him that it was marking the location of the original landfall of the ark. 10. An ostracon was found by Dr. Bill Shea around 100 ft. or 30.48 m. from the boat formation. An ostracon is a teaching tool usually made up of a piece of broken pottery that has something written or sketched on it that passes along an important story. On one side of the ostracon, as interpreted by Bill Shea, it has an inked-on drawing of a man with two birds. One is on his arm, and the other is being released. Below it is a bird flying back that has a branch in its mouth. The other side shows a man with a mustache and a beard, and has a hammer and spike in his hands. Shea interprets this as Noah likely building the Ark. 11. Dr. Robert Michelson discovered an ossuary in 1998 above the Durupinar site that dates back to around 1600 BC, 900 years after the Great Flood. This would have been the time Noah’s descendants inhabited the area. An ossuary is an item the deceased person’s bones are put in and kept for long-term purposes. This was only done for very important people. 12. There are also other ancient relics one would expect to find at a site that has been venerated for thousands of years. Historical Accounts of the Location of Noah’s Ark The Gilgamesh Epic gives Mt. Nisir as the landing place of the Ark. The local name for the town where the Ark was found is Nasar. The town just above the boat-shaped object was formerly called Nasar. This is similar to Niser that the Babylonian writer Berossus described as being near the Ark site in the third century BC. Flavius Josephus, a Jewish historian living around the time of Christ, wrote: “Its remains are shown there by the inhabitants to this day.” This means the Ark was not on top of Mt. Ararat as it’s covered in ice virtually year-round. Theophilus of Antioch (115-185 AD) said the Ark could be seen in his day in the Arabian mountains. Later, Church Fathers also mention the Ark as late as the mid-7th century AD. Ptolemy’s Geographia (1548) mentions the mountains of Armenia as the place of landing. So does the traveler Nicolas de Nicolay (1558). It was reported that Pilgrims visiting the site would gather bits and pieces of the petrified wood which would be used as charms to ward off evil. When they encountered the drogue and anchor stones, they had no doubt as to their association with the Ark. All these accounts suggest that the location of Noah’s Ark was in an accessible place like the Durupinar Site and not on the inaccessible upper part of Mt. Ararat. Is There Evidence for Noah’s Ark on Mt. Ararat? Over the past several hundred years, some have claimed to have spotted the Ark on the upper part of Mt. Ararat, but no substantial evidence has been produced. For example, Fernand Navarra claimed to have touched the Ark and supposedly brought down from the mountain wood from the Ark. However, when the wood was tested, it was far too young to be that of Noah’s Ark, and those accompanying him later revealed that Navarra carried the wood up to the mountain earlier and then brought it down to promote his book called, “Noah’s Ark: I Touched It.” There have been others as well who have claimed to have found pieces of the Ark, but they have been discredited as hoaxes. Many claim the evidence points to Mt. Ararat as being a more recent volcano that happened after the Flood. This is evidenced by the type of rock formations, the lack of sea fossil records, and no sentiment deposits that would result from the mountain being underwater. If this is the case, then it would be impossible for Noah’s Ark to be on Mt. Ararat because it wouldn’t have even existed when the Flood occurred. Another major reason why Noah’s Ark is unlikely on top of Mt. Ararat is that the Bible and geology support that before the Flood, there was a water canopy above the earth that caused a greenhouse-like effect on the whole earth. This is why there has been found lush tropical vegetation evidence at the northern and southern poles. When the Flood occurred, the water canopy in the sky came down upon the earth, and the earth’s climate was permanently changed. The earth was exposed to the upper atmosphere without a water canopy, causing instant freezing toward the northern and southern poles and the higher elevation mountains. Mt. Ararat is the tallest mountain in Turkey and is about 17,000 ft. or 5,165 m. above sea level. The claims to the locations of Noah’s Ark on Mt. Ararat are at the upper elevations where the glaciers are found. Most of these proposed sightings are above what is called the “tree line.” This is the level where vegetation stops growing. With this being the case, it seems illogical and contrary to God’s supernatural protection of the Ark, and those in it, to allow the Ark to rest on the upper elevations of Mt. Ararat as it would have been in a place of severe freezing temperatures, a harsh environment, extremely rough terrain, and hard to descend from to lower elevations. In fact, of the deaths occurring to those who climb Mt. Ararat, most happen on the descent down the mountain. All this causes me to question the validity of Noah’s Ark being on the upper part of Mt. Ararat, as some claim. It just seems unlikely that God would cause the Ark to rest on the top of a massive mountain with such a harsh environment for Noah and the animals to have to confront. Also, there would have been no vegetation at such a high altitude for survival. They would have had to rapidly descend the mountain in order to survive. Again, it all seems contrary to God’s nature and His care for those inside the Ark. It seems much more logical to believe the Ark came to rest at the Durupinar site, which is much lower, flatter, and environmentally friendly for life after the Flood. The Durupinar Site Is the Best Candidate for the Location of Noah’s Ark In summary, taking into account all the evidence at the Durupinar Site, it is by far the best candidate for the location of Noah’s Ark. Now while the boat-shaped formation is intriguing, I believe all the other evidence is sufficient to believe this area is the site of Noah’s Ark even without taking into consideration the boat-shaped formation. The names of the places in the area, the drogue stones, the relics, carvings on the stones, and so forth provide weighty evidence that this is very likely the true site of Noah’s Ark. In archaeology, the history and length of time a site has been venerated is highly valued. It’s certain that this site has been venerated for thousands of years and wouldn’t have been so if it wasn’t highly valued. This Durupinar Site certainly meets all the criteria of archaeology to be considered the most likely place of Noah’s Ark. Faith Lesson from Noah’s Ark 1. Do we truly believe that the biblical account of Noah’s Ark and the Great Flood really happened? Today, there is a raging battle taking place between those who want to eliminate a literal account of the creation of the universe and the Great Flood account as found in Genesis 1–8. The battle is between those who attempt to explain every earthly event by using only the natural laws of nature. In other words, they eliminate the existence of God and the supernatural. Therefore, they are only left with natural explanations for everything that occurred in the past. God tells us that the answer to these apparent dilemmas is faith. Hebrews 11:3 tells us that: By faith we understand that the worlds were framed [created] by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible. Creation was a supernatural event that we should believe by faith. Additionally, God says that without faith it is impossible to please God. Hebrews 11:6 says: But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Mankind’s problem is that they trust in their own intelligence and beliefs rather than trusting in God. Proverbs 3:5 clarifies this problem and the solution: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. God identifies unbelief as a sin in the Bible. Hebrews 3:12 says: Take care, brothers and sisters, that there will not be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart that falls away from the living God. What about us? Do we believe God created the universe and all that exists in six literal days, as the Bible says, or do we lean on the understanding of so-called scientists and others who say otherwise? Also, do we believe there was a literal flood like God says, or do we believe people instead? It’s really a matter of whom we choose to believe. Do we believe what God says in the Bible or people? It’s that simple. 2. Do we understand why God sent the Flood? The purpose of the Great Flood was to destroy all the wicked people on the earth. Now while this might sound cruel, it is actually an exercise of God’s mercy and justice. Sin causes heartache and suffering. When sin reaches such a severe state, then God will step in and eliminate it. This is what He did with the Flood, Sodom and Gomorrah, the Canaanites, and so forth. Also, we believe children go to heaven if they die before the age of accountability. So, instead of having to suffer at the hand of the wicked, they go to heaven. And lastly, everyone will die sooner or later, so in the grand scheme of time, it doesn’t matter a whole lot if a person dies young or old. What matters is that they are right with God and following Him. Also, God is just in punishing the wicked, whether it be during their time on earth or after they die. So what about us? Do we realize that we all will stand before God and give an account of our lives? If we are believers, we will be judged for how we used our gifts and abilities for God, not whether we will go to hell. Those who reject God and His offer of salvation through Jesus Christ will be judged and sent to hell. 3. Do we believe Noah and the Great Flood are examples of judgment to come? Before God destroyed all the wicked in the Flood, He gave them sufficient time to repent. However, they continued in their wickedness and rejected their Creator. It is the same today. Jesus said in Matthew 24:37–39: But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. 38 For as in the days before the Flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, 39 and did not know until the Flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. And 1 Peter 3:20 speaks of how God patiently waited for the wicked to turn to Him before He sent the Great Flood: When once the Divine longsuffering waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water. Moreover, 2 Peter 2:4 says: For if God did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to hell and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment; 5 and did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the Flood on the world of the ungodly. 4. Do we believe God is patiently waiting, like in the days of Noah, for people to turn from their sin and get right with their Creator? 2 Peter 3:3–14 says: Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts, 4 and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue just as they were from the beginning of creation.” 5 For when they maintain this, it escapes their notice that by the word of God the heavens existed long ago and the earth was formed out of water and by water, 6 through which the world at that time was destroyed by being flooded with water. 7 But by His word the present heavens and earth are being reserved for fire, kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly people. 8 But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. 9 The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not willing for any to perish, but for all to come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be discovered. 11 Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, 12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat! 13 But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells. 14 Therefore, beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found spotless and blameless by Him, at peace. 5. What about us? Have we received Christ as our Savior, and are we right with God?

Learn about Gath (Tel es-Safi) and the 5 cities of the Philistines. What all happened in Ashdod? What is its history? Who were the Philistines, where did they come from, and where did they live? They are mentioned in many places in the Old Testament and were the enemies of the Israelites. The Other Cities Were: Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gaza, and Ekron. Biblical Gath: City of Giants Photo Gallery Places of Interest Gath Introduction Rising from the rolling hills of southern Israel lies Tel Gath, the ancient Philistine stronghold once known as the hometown of Goliath, the giant warrior who faced young David in the Bible. This sprawling archaeological site, one of the largest in the region, was a center of power, culture, and fierce battles more than 3,000 years ago. Legends of towering warriors and biblical clashes echo through its ruins, while excavations continue to uncover massive fortifications, pottery, and even inscriptions that point to its storied past. Visiting Tel Gath is like stepping into the pages of the Bible, where history and myth blend in the very soil beneath your feet. Location 1. Gath (Tel Es-Safi) is located about 17 miles (28 km) east of Ashkelon. The word Gath means “winepress.” Historical Background 1. Gath was one of the five main cities of the Philistines (Josh. 13:3; 1 Sam. 6:17). 2. The site is a large, multi-period site that is made up of many layers. Each layer represents a distinct phase in the site's history. 3. Tel Es-Safi has a long history of settlement. The site was first settled sometime around 5000 BC. It has been continually settled until modern times. The last settlement there was an Arab village that was abandoned during the Israeli War of Independence in 1948. 4. It was a well-fortified walled city (2 Chron. 26:6). 5. Joshua and the Israelites were unable to conquer Gath despite the numerous conflicts between the Israelites and the inhabitants of Gath. 6. It wasn’t until King David that the city was conquered and became part of the Israelite Kingdom (1 Chron. 18:1). 7. Its name is most remembered as the home of the giant, Goliath, whom David slew (1 Sam. 17:4). Giants in the Bible What do we know about them from the Bible? 1. In the lower excavations of this Tel, they have discovered rooms that are twice the size of what would be normal. Is this evidence that giants once inhabited this area? 2. The Bible describes several groups of giants, including the Nephilim, Anakim, Rephaim, Emim, and Zamzummin. 3. The Nephilim , mentioned in Genesis and Numbers, are a mysterious group often interpreted as the offspring of "sons of God" and human women. 4. The Anakim and Rephaim are powerful, tall people the Israelites encountered in Canaan, with Goliath being a famous example of a giant descended from this lineage. While some interpretations view these giants as the result of a supernatural union, others consider them to be exceptionally large and powerful humans. One account in the Bible that refers to the Rephaim speaks of Og, King of Bashan: Deuteronomy 3:11 describes his massive bed: "Only Og king of Bashan was left of the remnant of the Rephaim. His bed was an iron bed and was nine cubits long and four cubits wide [about 13.5 feet long, 4 meters, and 6 feet wide, 2 meters], according to the common cubit." This implies a man of truly enormous stature. The Emim , as found in Deuteronomy 2:10-11, are described as "a people strong and numerous, and as tall as the Anakim," and Emim. These were also giants who formerly inhabited the land of Moab. The last set of giants, known as the Zamzummin , as found in Deuteronomy 2:20, were similar to the Emim. They were giants who lived in the land of Ammon before the Ammonites inhabited it. Gath in the Bible 1. It has archaeological remains that are unusual, revealing that giants once lived here. This is affirmed by the Bible. 1 Chronicles 20:8: These were descended from the giants in Gath , and they fell by the hand of David and by the hand of his servants. It was also the hometown of the warrior Goliath, who appears in the Bible. 2. It was one of the Philistine cities where the Ark of the Covenant resided before being taken to Ekron. 1 Samuel 5:8: So they sent word and gathered all the governors of the Philistines to them, and said, “What shall we do with the ark of the God of Israel?” And they said, “Have the ark of the God of Israel brought to Gath .” So they took the ark of the God of Israel away. 3. Goliath, the giant that young David slew, was from Gath. 1 Samuel 17:4: Then a champion came forward from the army encampment of the Philistines, named Goliath, from Gath . His height was six cubits and a span. 4. When King Saul was seeking to kill David, David went to Gath to hide from Saul and acted like a crazy person because he feared the king of Gath. 1 Samuel 21:10-15: Then David set out and fled that day from Saul, and went to Achish king of Gath . 11 But the servants of Achish said to him, “Is this not David, the king of the land? Did they not sing of this one as they danced, saying, ‘Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands’?” 12 David took these words to heart and greatly feared Achish king of Gath . 13 So he disguised his sanity while in their sight and acted insanely in their custody, and he scribbled on the doors of the gate, and drooled on his beard. 14 Then Achish said to his servants, “Look, you see the man is behaving like an insane person. Why do you bring him to me? 15 Do I lack insane people, that you have brought this one to behave like an insane person in my presence? Shall this one come into my house?” 5. Later, when King Saul was again pursuing David to kill him, David fled and lived in Gath for a while. 1 Samuel 27:2-3: So David set out and went over, he and the six hundred men who were with him, to Achish the son of Maoch, king of Gath . And David lived with Achish in Gath , he and his men, each with his own household—David with his two wives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the Carmelitess, Nabal’s widow. Faith Lesson from the Philistines 1. While Gath proved to be a safe haven for David to flee to in times of need, it was still an enemy territory of the Israelites. Do we fear things and seek refuge in the wrong places instead of fully trusting in God for our safety and protection? 2. Gath and its idolatry represented all that was opposed to the nation of Israel, just as the Bible presents this world’s system as all that is opposite to God’s will for us. Are we in danger of loving this world's system and all it has to offer instead of God's kingdom and what it has to offer? 1 John 2:15–17: Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. 17 The world is passing away and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God continues to live forever. 3. This present world is our home for now, but we are called to live in this world as sojourners and ambassadors, not participating in the world’s evil. We should understand that our true citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20). Are we living in the world but not participating in its evil? And do we realize that our true citizenship and home is in heaven?

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

May 1-17, 2026, Registration Form. In-depth 17-day Bible-centered Holy Land tour trip to Israel that allows you to see more holy sites in Israel. Holy Land Trip Registration Form May 1~17, 2 026 Trip How to Register and Secure Your Spot on the Holy Land Experience Trip of a Lifetime! 1. Fill out and submit the online registration form below. 2. Upon receiving and accepting your form, we will notify you of availability and acceptance into the tour trip group. 3. Upon acceptance into the group, please pay your $500 non-refundable deposit to confirm your spot. Registration Deposit Link Final Paym ent Link CONTACT INFO: Pastor Todd Fink Phone: (541) 603-0881 Email: holylandsite.com@gmail.com Website: HolyLandSite.com NEXT STEPS 1. Upon receiving and accepting your form, we will notify you of availability and acceptance into the tour trip group. 2. Upon acceptance into the group, please pay your $500 non-refundable deposit to confirm your spot. Registration Deposit Link Final Payment Link 3. In the meantime, check out our video teachings to the left or see other info about Holy Land Trip orientation, etc. CONTACT INFO: Pastor Todd Fink Phone: (541) 603-0881 Email: holylandsite.com@gmail.com Website: HolyLandSite.com TOUR HOSTS Dr. Todd & Letsy Fink - Tour Hosts More about the Finks

This site has a treasure trove of things to see: Roman crushed street, Trumpeter's Stone, Temple Mount Walls, ancient stones, Mikvahs, Pilgrims' Round, the Southern Stairs (also known as the Rabbis' Stairs), the Ophel, and many ancient ruins. Discover fascinating facts about how discipleship took place during Jesus' time. Jerusalem Archaeological Park Photo Gallery Places of Interest Jerusalem Archaeological Park Introduction Welcome to Jerusalem Archaeological Park. This site has a treasure trove of amazing things to see. Here are the highlights. Model of ancient Jerusalem during the time of Jesus. Ancient building stones. Roman Street, which was crushed by Roman destruction in 70 AD. Trumpeter's Stone Robinson's Arch Southern Stairs (Rabbis' Stairs) Mikvahs Ophel (space between the City of David and Temple Mount) Ruins dating to the time of Solomon. Hulda Gates Excavations in this area began in 1968 and have yielded breathtaking discoveries. Location The Jerusalem Archaeological Park is located on the southwest corner of the Temple Mount. Historical Background 1. 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). In the Mishna, there is a simple and beautiful regulation regarding how to enter the Hulda gates. "All who enter the Temple Mount shall enter from the eastern side of the gate (right side) and then exit through the western side of the gate (left side), except those who lost a loved one and are in mourning or have a sick person at home or lost a valuable object." All those who entered from the western side gate and exited via the eastern side gate (in the opposite direction) would know that something bad had happened to them and could offer words of comfort. This was a custom that demonstrated sensitivity and care to others. 2. King Herod had them redone and made them stagger so no one could enter or depart the presence of God (signified by entering or leaving the temple area) without being thoughtful in the process. 3. The stairs were hundreds of feet wide, providing plenty of space for congregating and teaching. 4. They were the main access to the temple from the City of David and the western area of the city, where most of the population lived. 5. Multitudes arrived at the stairs by using the Pilgrim's Road (Herodian St.), which connected the Pool of Siloam to the Temple Mount. As they ascended this road, they sang the songs of ascent found in Psalms 120-134. 6. The Pool of Siloam was a massive mikveh at the lower part of the City of David that the Jews used for purification purposes before entering the Temple Mount. 7. There were also many purification mikvehs at the base of the Southern Stairs as well (around 48 total). 8. The Southern Stairs were also called “The Rabbis’ Stairs” or the “Teaching Stairs” as rabbis taught their disciples on them. 9. There is no doubt Jesus would have walked on these stairs and taught His disciples here. It’s also likely that the young Apostle Paul sat here under the teaching of Gamaliel as well (Acts 22:3). 10. The stairs were cut out of the mountain's bedrock, and part of them can still be seen today. This staircase consisted of 30 steps. The steps alternate in width, with narrow, wide, narrow, and wide sections. These uneven steps have led some to speculate that the stairs were built to correspond to the rhythm of the fifteen Psalms known as the Psalms of Ascent (Psalms 120-134). In other words, the fifteen wide steps were built to represent each of these fifteen Psalms of Ascent. Psalm 122:1,2 (one of the Psalms of ascent) says, “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord. Our feet are standing in your gates, Jerusalem.’” 11. 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. The Hebrew word for "house" refers to a dwelling, such as a temple or a covered structure. It doesn't really refer to a home. Just think that you are in the area where the Pentecost event took place. And, of course, around here are all these Mikvehs where the 3,000 who received Christ on Pentecost would be baptized. 12. The other main entrance to the Temple Mount from the south was Robinson's Arch Stairway. The southern stairs and Robinson's Arch Stairway served pilgrims who accessed the Temple Mount from Pilgrim's Road. This road led from the Pool of Siloam up to the Temple Mount. 13. The City of David lies just to the south of this area. This is where a significant portion of Jerusalem's population resided. Later, Hezekiah expanded Jerusalem to the south and west and built what is known today as Hezekiah's Broad Wall. As a result, this southern part of the Temple Mount was highly used. Places of Interest 1. Model of Archaeological Site at Entrance 2. Different Kinds of Stones Herodian Hasmonean Solomon/Hezekiah 3. Herod's Temple Mount Expansion Section 4. Temple Mount Wall Time Periods Herod Period Umayyad Period Suleiman the Magnificent Period 5. Trumpeter's Cornerstone (House of the Trumpeter). The original top part is in the Israel Museum. This one is an exact replica. The Jewish historian Josephus writes about this in his writings. Three blowings of the trumpet took place: (1) for the farmers to stop their work, (2) for the shopkeepers to close down, and (3) for the Sabbath to officially begin (or other holy feasts). 6. Shops on both sides of the street. Before the 1860 excavation, this street lay buried under approximately 57 feet of debris. 7. Broken Pavement from the stones that fell during the Roman destruction in 70 AD. 8. Burnt layers in the Western Wall from the Roman destruction. 9. Robinson's Arch There was a series of bridges and arches on the west side of the Temple Mount that allowed people access to the Temple platform. One of these arches, located close to the southern end of the Western Wall, is known as Robinson's Arch. The arch was discovered in 1838 AD and named after its discoverer, American researcher Edward Robinson. It was destroyed during the Great Jewish Revolt, only a few decades after its completion. 10. Isaiah Stone Right under Robinson's Arch, we can see the so-called "Isaiah Stone." It has a carved inscription in Hebrew, a partial quote or paraphrase of Isaiah 66:14. The carving reads: "And they will see, and rejoice your heart, and your bones like grass shall flourish." The verse they are quoting goes like this: When you see this, your heart shall rejoice, and your bones shall flourish like grass; the hand of the Lord shall be known to His servants, and His indignation to His enemies. The inscription, dated to around 300-700 AD, tells us that the Jews of that time venerated the Temple Mount as the location of the temple. It's just another piece of evidence revealing the Temple Mount as the authentic place where the temple once stood. 11. Pilgrim's Road (Herodian St.) led from the Pool of Siloam to the Southern Stairs and Robinson's Arch Stairway area. 12. Mikvehs by the Western Wall Area 13. Umayyad Palace Constructed around 700 AD. Eastern wall of the palace. 14. Hulda Gates The right side (eastern side) was the entrance to the Temple Mount. The left side (western side) was for departing the Temple Mount. Southern Stairs They were also referred to as the Rabbis' Stairs. Jesus undoubtedly would have walked these stairs and taught His disciples on them. They consisted of 30 unevenly spaced steps. These uneven steps have led some to speculate that the stairs were built to correspond to the rhythm of the fifteen Psalms known as the Psalms of Ascent (Psalms 120-134). Psalm 122:1-2: I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go to the house of the Lord. Our feet are standing in your gates, Jerusalem ." The fact that the stairs are uneven in width prevented worshippers from running up them, thus maintaining a stately decorum as they entered the Temple. 14. Mikvehs by the Southern Stairs. 15. Royal Stoa - Large public meeting building on the south side of the Temple Mount just above the Southern Stairs. Pentecost Area 16. Crusader Tower 17. Temple Mount 28. City of David Discipleship in the Time Of Jesus 1. Discipleship in the Time of Jesus To understand biblical discipleship in its fullness, we must examine how it functioned during the time of Christ. Ray Vander Laan provides a rich understanding of this area. He notes, “Discipleship was a very common practice in Christ’s day and especially in the Galilee area. The people of Galilee were the most religious Jews in the world in the time of Jesus. This is quite contrary to the common view that the Galileans were simple, uneducated peasants from an isolated area. This perspective is probably due to the comments made in the Bible, which appear to belittle people from this area .” Vander Laan continues, “The Galilean people were actually more educated in the Bible and its application than most Jews were. More famous Jewish teachers come from Galilee than anywhere else in the world. They were known for their great reverence for Scripture and their passionate desire to be faithful to it .” 2. Discipleship Training Began Early in Life Discipleship training, as we know it today, actually began very early in a Jewish child's life. They would enter grade school (called Beth Sefer) at around 4–5 years of age, which was generally held at the local synagogue. The teacher at the synagogue was referred to as a rabbi. At this level, they would mainly be instructed in the Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament), learning to read, write, and memorize it. The rest of the Old Testament was referred to as well. Much of the Torah was committed to memory, and it’s likely that by the time this level of education was completed (around age 13), they had memorized a significant portion of it. After grade school, the best students continued to middle school (called Beth Midrash). They would continue to learn and memorize the Torah, but also branch out to learn the rest of the Old Testament, committing much of it to memory. After the Beth Midrash level, those who wanted to continue in discipleship would then seek out a rabbi who would accept them as disciples. They would often leave home to travel with him for extended periods of time. These students were called talmidim (talmids) in Hebrew, which translates to "disciple." 3. Memorization Was a Key Factor in Discipleship Memorization was important during Jesus’ day because most people didn’t have their own copy of the Scriptures; they either had to memorize it or go to the synagogue to consult the local village scroll. As mentioned, by the time a child finished the Beth Midrash level of education, they had memorized most of the Torah and much of the Old Testament. The common memorization technique involved rote, constant repetition, a practice still used to this day. 4. A Disciple Imitated His Rabbi Discipleship in Christ’s day involved a heavy dose of imitation. A talmid (disciple) emulated his rabbi in all facets of life. His goal was to be like his rabbi. Vander Laan adds, “There is much more to a talmid than simply calling one a student. A student wants to know what the teacher knows to complete the class or degree, or even out of respect for the teacher. A talmid wants to be like the teacher, that is, to become what the teacher is.” That meant that students were passionately devoted to their rabbi and took note of everything he did or said. Vander Laan continues, “The rabbi-talmid relationship was a very intense and personal system of education. As the rabbi lived and taught his understanding of the Scripture to his students, they listened, watched, and imitated him to become like him. Eventually, they would become teachers themselves, passing on a lifestyle to their own talmidim.” 5. Discipleship Entailed Learning Much Scripture The very few talmids that reached the status of a rabbi were highly respected and sought after. Those who became rabbis were incredibly knowledgeable in Scripture, and many had memorized much, if not all, of the Old Testament. As mentioned, during Christ’s day, they didn’t have their own personal Bibles like we do today, so they had to memorize it to reference and discuss it. As a result of memorizing so much Scripture, the rabbis were extremely knowledgeable in God’s Word. Those who wanted to learn from a rabbi also committed much, if not all, of the Old Testament to memory. This was a requirement for being a disciple, as their discussions about Scripture didn’t focus mainly on what the Scriptures said, but on what they meant. Rabbis in the time of Christ would be equivalent to theologians today who hold at least one Ph.D. in theology. To reach the status of a rabbi was a great accomplishment. They were the ones who decided on the country's biblical doctrines, practices, and customs. Their words were exceptionally authoritative and valued. Doug Greenwold says, “In the world of Pharisaism, rabbis were the teachers who had been given the authoritative role to interpret God’s Word for the living of a righteous life—defining what behavior would or would not please God.” Rabbis were affiliated with various groups, including the Pharisees, the Sadducees, the Essenes, and others. For example, John the Baptist was a rabbi who had his own disciples (Luke 5:33), and the Apostle Paul was a disciple of Gamaliel before eventually becoming a disciple of Christ at his conversion to Christianity. Some rabbis attained notable status and had a significant influence on both religious and governmental affairs. 6. Strict Devotion Was Expected The rabbis expected strict, complete devotion and adherence to their teachings. They expected loyalty and obedience even beyond that given to their families. Greenwold states, “If a rabbi ultimately agreed to a would-be disciple’s request and allowed him to become a disciple, the disciple-to-be agreed to submit totally to the rabbi’s authority in all areas of interpreting the Scriptures for his life. This was a cultural given for all observant Jewish young men—something each truly wanted to do. As a result, each disciple came to a rabbinic relationship with a desire and a willingness to do just that—surrender to the authority of God’s Word as interpreted by his rabbi’s view of Scripture.” Different rabbis held varying views of Scripture, so students would choose their rabbis based on their recognition in the country and their theological positions. Today, it would be similar to choosing a seminary for a student's graduate-level theological training. These rabbis would occasionally take their students on training trips that could last from several days to several weeks. These were intense training times, when all distractions from the busyness of life were set aside and the students focused entirely on their rabbi's teachings. The example of Paul and why he refused to take Mark on a missionary trip. Acts 15:36-40: And after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” 37 Now Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. 38 But Paul thought best not to take with them one who had withdrawn from them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work. 39 And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, 40 but Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. The rabbis also had favorite teaching places, one of which was on the Southern Steps, which led up to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. Tradition holds that even Christ taught His disciples on these steps. 7. Theological Discussions Were a Part of Discipleship It was common for the rabbi and his disciples (a group known as Yeshivas) to wrestle deeply with the Word of God. These yeshivas would engage in intense dialogue and debate over various aspects of life and what Scripture said about them. “It was a standard part of rabbinic teaching methodology.” Greenwold adds, “Studying their rabbi’s view of Scripture and wrestling with the text to comprehend God’s way for the conduct of their life was the main priority of a disciple and the yeshiva experience. Since all disciples had memorized most, if not all, of their Hebrew Scriptures in preparation for their Bar Mitzvahs at age 13, the issue was not what God’s Word said but rather what it meant and how it was to be lived out.” During their periods of intense dialogue and debate, these yeshivas arrived at their theological convictions and doctrinal positions. 8. Tr ansparency and Accountability Were the Norms There was remarkable transparency among these yeshivas, as they spent significant time together during their teaching sessions and discipleship training trips. Doug Greenwold says it well: “Unlike many of our contemporary discipleship programs, there was no curriculum or agenda for this multi-year discipling experience. Rather, it was a continual daily relational living experience where either the rabbi would ask questions of the disciple as he closely observed the disciple’s life, or the disciple would initiate a discussion by raising an issue or asking a question based on some aspect of his daily life .” In this discipleship format, not only was theology passed on, but character, attitudes, and behavior. 9. The Meaning of “Believe” As a disciple learned from their rabbi, they were placing their entire trust and belief in him. This process was called “believing.” Unlike today, the term “believe” has a very different meaning in Hebrew culture. Once again, Greenwold states it well: “The Semitic understanding of ‘believe’ was not based on an intellectual assent to a creed, doctrinal statement, or series of faith propositions. Rather, to a first-century disciple, ‘believe’ is a verb in which you willingly submit to your rabbi’s interpretive authority regarding God’s Word in every area of your life. Thus, to say you were a disciple in the name of Gamaliel meant that you totally surrendered your life to Gamaliel’s way of interpreting Scripture. As a result, you conformed all of your life’s behavior to his interpretations .” In Hebrew culture, the word “believe” meant taking action, applying knowledge to daily life, and changing some attitude or perspective on life, not just mentally knowing something and remaining unchanged. Today, the word “believe” is often used as a noun and tends to imply mere intellectual agreement or mental assent, which is a significantly different meaning from its usage in Christ’s day. Faith Lesson 1. Discipleship Meant Commitment Considering the historical significance of discipleship, we can now gain a deeper understanding of the discipleship process Christ employed with His disciples. He called them to follow Him, be with Him, learn from Him, practice what they learned, surrender completely to Him, and love Him more than their families, friends, and culture. It meant even being willing to die for Him if needed. Therefore, a disciple can be summed up as a disciplined learner or student who chooses to follow Christ, their rabbi, to such a degree that they submit their entire life, will, time, plans, desires, dreams, character, and efforts entirely to Him and His teachings. They are willing to deny themself, take up their cross, and obey all His commands with total abandonment. A biblical disciple is a person who gives complete devotion and loyalty to Christ, above all human relationships and influences. It’s a person who is willing to die for the cause of Christ daily, and once and for all if needed. 2. The discipleship process during Christ's time placed a strong emphasis on knowing God’s Word, relational mentoring, character, discipline, commitment, and devotion. 3. Discipleship in Christ’s Day Versus Discipleship Today How are Christians and the church performing today in terms of biblical discipleship? The contrast between discipleship in Christ’s time and discipleship today is quite staggering. Unlike Christ’s disciples, who knew Scripture exceedingly well and had much of it memorized, 81% of Christians today don’t read their Bibles regularly and are largely biblically illiterate. Unlike Christ’s disciples, who were fishers of men and took the gospel to the ends of the earth, 61% of Christians today haven’t even shared their faith in the last six months. Unlike Christ’s disciples, who prayed extensively, the average Christian today spends only 1–7 minutes a day in prayer. And unlike Christ and the Apostles, who made discipleship a core part of their ministries, 81% of pastors have no regular discipleship program for mentoring their people. It’s clear that the value Christ and the Apostles gave to discipleship is vastly different from the value the average Evangelical church and Christian give it today.