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?

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

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?

What does the future hold for Israel? Will it survive? What does the Bible say about Israel's future wars, conflicts, and terrorism? The Bible has much to say and is the most trustworthy source about the future. It predicts coming conflicts with Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, Russia, Syria, and other nations. This is must-see information if you want to know what the future holds for Israel and Jerusalem. Future of Israel: Its Wars, Conflicts, Prophecies The Future of Israel and Its Conflicts Introduction Will Israel survive all the wars, conflicts, and terrorism from the surrounding nations who want to eliminate it? What are the motives of the wars and conflicts? Does Israel have a right to exist? What does the future look like for the Middle East and Israel? These are questions we’ll be answering. In this discussion, we will look at what the future holds for Israel by using prophecies in the Bible. The Bible is the most trusted source for the future and end times as it contains countless prophecies that have already come to pass in detailed ways, prophecies about the future, and many prophecies being fulfilled before our very eyes. The Dead Sea Scrolls prove that many of the prophecies in the Bible were written long before they were fulfilled. Therefore, we can trust the Bible like no other writing. Only God knows the future, and God claims to be the One who is the Author of the Bible. We’ll be looking at the root cause of the conflict Israel has with its enemies, what wars are prophesied to take place in the future, and what the Bible says the outcome of these wars will be. So, if you want to know what the future holds for Israel and the Middle East, read carefully to the end to find out. The Conflict Is Mainly Between Muslim Arabs and Jews Now, this discussion is not about all Arabs and is not intended to be anti-Arab. I have a number of Arab friends and have met many Arab people while in the Holy Land who are wonderful folks. God loves all people and wants them to come to the saving knowledge of salvation through Jesus Christ, who proved to be divine and fulfilled countless prophecies proving this. Both the Jews and Arabs need Jesus Christ, along with all of us. He is the only hope for peace and salvation. Every person is equal and created in the image of God. I also want to say that I feel deep compassion for the innocent people caught up in war. Wars are ugly, destructive, and sad. What Is the Conflict About? The basic conflict is over who has the right to exist in the Holy Land. The Muslim Arabs claim they are the rightful owners of all the Holy Land and want no state of Israel at all, and Israel says they have a right to exist in their homeland. Israel Becoming a Nation Fulfills Bibl e Prophecy In Ezekiel chapter 37 is a vision Ezekiel received about a valley of dry bones. These bones represent the nation of Israel and how God would regather them into their homeland in the last days. This was fulfilled in 1948 when Israel was recognized by the UN and the International Community as being its own country. Ezekiel 37:11-14: Then He said to me, “Son of man, these bones are the entire house of Israel; behold, they say, ‘Our bones are dried up and our hope has perished. We are completely cut off.’ 12 Therefore prophesy and say to them, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “Behold, I am going to open your graves and cause you to come up out of your graves, My people; and I will bring you into the land of Israel. 13 Then you will know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves and caused you to come up out of your graves, My people. 14 And I will put My Spirit within you and you will come to life, and I will place you on your own land . Then you will know that I, the Lord, have spoken and done it,” declares the Lord.’” This amazing prophecy has been fulfilled and lets us know that the Bible is God’s word and true, as only God knows the future. We must realize that the creation of Israel as a state is God’s doing. It fulfills His master plan for the nation of Israel. God is the Lord and owner of everything, so we must realize it is His will for the nation of Israel to exist. Nothing will change His plans. Therefore, the fact that Israel is a state is ultimately by God’s sovereign work and plan, not people’s. The Future Wars Israel Will Face , as Prophesied in the Bible There are three main wars that Israel will face in the future. 1. The great battle of Gog and Magog in Ezekiel chapters 38-39. 2. The persecution of the Jews in Israel by the Antichrist in the middle of the Great Tribulation Period. 3. The gathering of all nations against Israel at the end of the Great Tribulation Period. All of these conflicts will likely be intermixed with smaller wars as hatred and the desire to wipe Israel off the face of the earth grows. Now, let’s look at each of the se major wars. 1. War I: A massive invasio n from six nations surrounding Israel and the North. Ezekiel 38:1-6: Now the word of the Lord came to me, saying, 2 “Son of man, set your face toward Gog of the land of Magog , the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal , and prophesy against him, 3 and say, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “Behold, I am against you, Gog, chief prince of Meshech and Tubal . 4 So I will turn you around and put hooks into your jaws, and I will bring you out, and all your army, horses and horsemen, all of them magnificently dressed, a great contingent with shield and buckler, all of them wielding swords; 5 Persia, Cush , and Put with them, all of them with buckler and helmet; 6 Gomer with all its troops; Beth-togarmah from the remote parts of the north with all its troops—many peoples with you. Who are these countries that will invade Israel in the last days? Gog is a person who rules over the land of Magog. Many Bible scholars believe Magog is the southern part of Russia, and Gog means the “Prince of Rosh.” They believe Rosh refers to the land of Russia. 1. The first nation consisting of Magog, Meshech, and Tubal were all sons of Japheth, who was one of the three sons of Noah. Japheth and his family migrated to the area of modern-day Russia (Genesis 10:2-3). God informs Gog and Magog in Ezekiel 38:15, “You will come from your place in the far North .” The Hebrew word means “the uttermost part of the North.” What is to the far north of Israel? This seems to be Russia. On the date of this filming, Hamas, Palestinian, and Iranian representatives are meeting in Russia. This shows that this alliance even being formed today before our very eyes. 2. The second nation, Persia, is now the modern state of Iran. It is currently ruled by an Islamic fundamentalist government that is building significant military power, including the development of nuclear weapons. It has openly declared its commitment to the total annihilation of the Jewish State of Israel. 3. The third nation, Cush, is the region of Ethiopia, but not the same as modern Ethiopia. Instead, it occupied the area later known as Nubia. Today, it’s known as Sudan and is dominated by an Islamic fundamentalist government that is using brutal means, including the crucifixion of Christians, to attempt to establish a pure, Islamic state. 4. The fourth nation, Put, is the region of Libya today. It is also an Islamic nation. It is strongly anti-West and anti-Israel, and Western intelligence has been informed that Libya has hired Eastern European and former Soviet military scientists to aid its development of military power. 5. The people of the fifth nation, Gomer, had settled in what is now central Turkey in Ezekiel’s time. 6. The people of the sixth nation, Togarmah, were identified by Josephus as the Phrygians, who settled in Cappadocia, now eastern Turkey. Considering the location of the fifth and sixth nations in Turkey, it should be noted that the present government of Turkey is being threatened by Islamic fundamentalists. As a result, some leaders fear that Turkey could become another Iran. If that happens, all the nations named in Ezekiel 38:5–6 will be characterized by a militant Islamic hatred of Israel. In fact, the current Turkish president is supporting Hamas and condemning Israel in the war that is happening between Israel and Hamas. It is even threatening to go to war with Israel and the West. The president of Turkey is also currently meeting with Russian president Putin and calls him his friend. So, we see movement happening toward Bible prophecy being fulfilled before our very eyes regarding Turkey. I should also mention that nine Arab nations are condemning Israel for defending itself against the recent Hamas attacks. In summary, what we see is Islamic countries all unifying in their opposition to Israel. The battle is a spiritual battle with the religion of Islam front and center. It’s Islamic Jihad being fanned into flames across all Islamic countries. When will this invasion happen? Ezekiel 38:7-9: “Be ready, and be prepared, you and all your contingents that are assembled around you, and be a guard for them. 8 After many days you will be summoned; in the latter years you will come into the land that is restored from the sword, whose inhabitants have been gathered from many nations to the mountains of Israel which had been a continual place of ruins [this speaks of the regathering and establishment of the nation of Israel]; but its people were brought out from the nations, and they are living securely, all of them. 9 And you will go up, you will come like a storm; you will be like a cloud covering the land, you and all your troops, and many peoples with you.” This major invasion happens after Israel is gathered into its homeland country of the Holy Land. It happens in the latter years or last days. It will also take place when Israel is living securely. Ezekiel 38:14-16: “Therefore prophesy, son of man, and say to Gog, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “On that day when My people Israel are living securely , will you not know it? 15 You will come from your place out of the remote parts of the north, you and many peoples with you, all of them riding horses, a large assembly and a mighty army; 16 and you will come up against My people Israel like a cloud to cover the land. It shall come about in the last days that I will bring you against My land, so that the nations may know Me when I show Myself holy through you before their eyes, Gog.” It appears it will take place at least seven years before the middle of the Great Tribulation Period. Ezekiel 39:9: “Then those who inhabit the cities of Israel will go out and make fires with the weapons and burn them, both bucklers and shields, bows and arrows, war clubs and spears, and for seven years they will make fires of them. We know that in the middle of the Tribulation, the Antichrist sets himself up as God in a functioning temple in Jerusalem. He institutes the Mark of the Beast, and no one can buy or sell without it. According to Matthew 24:15-21 and Revelation 12:6, there will be great tribulation starting in the middle of the Tribulation, and Israel will flee into the desert to be supernaturally protected by God for 3 ½ years. We’ll see this event in more detail a little later. With this being the case, it seems highly unlikely that the nation of Israel is going to have time to take wood from the great invasion with them into the desert when they flee. Therefore, it seems this invasion takes place before the middle of the Tribulation Period. Some think this northern invasion will happen at the end of the Great Tribulation Period, but I don’t think so. This northern invasion lists just six nations fighting against Israel. At the end of the Tribulation, all the nations of the earth are gathered against Israel. Ezekiel 38:14 clearly states that it happens when Israel is living securely during a time of peace. “Therefore prophesy, son of man, and say to Gog, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “On that day when My people Israel are living securely, will you not know it? The end of the Tribulation Period is anything but peaceful and secure for Israel. The second half of the Tribulation is when God pours out His wrath on the world, so it won’t be a time of peace. Also, during the second half of the Tribulation, as mentioned, Israel flees to the desert and is supernaturally protected by God. So, it’s virtually impossible for this invasion to happen in the middle or at the end of the Tribulation Period. The reason for the invasion. Ezekiel 38:10-13: ‘This is what the Lord God says: “It will come about on that day, that thoughts will come into your mind and you will devise an evil plan , 11 and you will say, ‘I will go up against the land of unwalled villages. I will go against those who are at rest, who live securely, all of them living without walls and having no bars or gates, 12 to capture spoils and to seize plunder, to turn your hand against the ruins that are now inhabited, and against the people who are gathered from the nations, who have acquired livestock and goods, who live at the center of the world.’ 13 Sheba and Dedan and the merchants of Tarshish with all its villages will say to you, ‘Have you come to capture spoils? Have you assembled your contingent to seize plunder, to carry away silver and gold, to take away livestock and goods, to capture great spoils ?’”’ God’s response to the invasion. Ezekiel 38:17-23: ‘This is what the Lord God says: “Are you the one of whom I spoke in former days through My servants the prophets of Israel, who prophesied in those days for many years that I would bring you against them? 18 It will come about on that day, when Gog comes against the land of Israel,” declares the Lord God, “that My fury will mount up in My anger . 19 In My zeal and in My blazing wrath I declare that on that day there will certainly be a great earthquake in the land of Israel. 20 The fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the animals of the field, all the crawling things that crawl on the earth, and all mankind who are on the face of the earth will shake at My presence; and the mountains will be thrown down, the steep pathways will collapse, and every wall will fall to the ground. 21 And I will call for a sword against him on all My mountains,” declares the Lord God. “Every man’s sword will be against his brother. 22 With plague and with blood I will enter into judgment with him; and I will rain on him and on his troops, and on the many peoples who are with him, a torrential rain, hailstones, fire, and brimstone. 23 So I will prove Myself great, show Myself holy, and make Myself known in the sight of many nations; and they will know that I am the Lord.”’ How long will Israel make fires out of the weapons of warfare? Ezekiel 39:9-10: “Then those who inhabit the cities of Israel will go out and make fires with the weapons and burn them, both bucklers and shields, bows and arrows, war clubs and spears, and for seven years they will make fires of them . 10 They will not take wood from the field or gather firewood from the forests, because they will make fires with the weapons; and they will take the spoils of those who plundered them and seize the plunder of those who plundered them,” declares the Lord God. Again, as mentioned earlier, it seems highly unlikely that the nation of Israel will have time to take wood from this great invasion with them into the desert when they flee from the Antichrist in the middle of the Tribulation Period. Therefore, it seems this invasion takes place at least seven years before the middle of the Tribulation Period. The final purpose of the invasion. Ezekiel 39:21-24: “And I will place My glory among the nations ; and all the nations will see My judgment which I have executed, and My hand which I have laid on them. 22 And the house of Israel will know that I am the Lord their God , from that day onward. 23 The nations will know that the house of Israel went into exile for their wrongdoing , because they were disloyal to Me, and I hid My face from them; so I handed them over to their adversaries, and all of them fell by the sword. 24 In accordance with their uncleanness and their offenses I dealt with them, and I hid My face from them.”’” This massive invasion seems like it could set up events for the Peace Treaty that the Antichrist makes with the world for seven years, which starts the Great Tribulation Period. War II: Persecution of the Jews by the Antichrist in the middle of the Great Tribulation. The next war against the Israelis will be in the middle of the Tribulation. Matthew 24:15-21: “Therefore when you see the abomination of desolation which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place—let the reader understand— 16 then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains . 17 Whoever is on the housetop must not go down to get things out of his house. 18 And whoever is in the field must not turn back to get his cloak. 19 But woe to those women who are pregnant, and to those who are nursing babies in those days! 20 Moreover, pray that when you flee, it will not be in the winter, or on a Sabbath. 21 For then there will be a great tribulation , such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will again. A parallel passage to the event is found in Revelation 12:1-17: A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman [Israel] clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars [12 tribes of Israel]; 2 and she was pregnant [with Jesus Christ] and she cried out, being in labor and in pain to give birth. 3 Then another sign appeared in heaven: and behold, a great red dragon [Antichrist] having seven heads and ten horns, and on his heads were seven crowns. 4 And his tail swept away a third of the stars [fallen angels, demons] of heaven and hurled them to the earth. And the dragon stood before the woman who was about to give birth, so that when she gave birth he might devour her Child [Jesus]. The Red Dragon, who is Satan, wants to eliminate Israel 5 And she gave birth to a Son [Jesus], a male, who is going to rule all the nations with a rod of iron; and her Child [Jesus] was caught up to God and to His throne. 6 Then the woman [Israel] fled into the wilderness where she had a place prepared by God, so that there she would be nourished for 1,260 days [3 ½ years]. 7 And there was war in heaven, Michael and his angels waging war with the dragon. The dragon and his angels waged war, 8 and they did not prevail, and there was no longer a place found for them in heaven. 13 And when the dragon saw that he was thrown down to the earth, he persecuted the woman [Israel] who gave birth to the male Child [Jesus]. 14 But the two wings of the great eagle were given to the woman, so that she could fly into the wilderness to her place, where she was nourished for a time, times, and half a time, away from the presence of the serpent [3 ½ years]. 17 So the dragon was enraged with the woman, and went off to make war with the rest of her children, who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus [Christians] . In summary, we see that once again, God will step in and supernaturally protect Israel during this war. He has a plan for Israel, and He will see to it that it is fulfilled. It should be noted that this war, unlike the others, is between the Antichrist and Israel. It doesn’t include other nations. 3. War III: All the nations gather against Israel at the end of the Great Tribulation Period. At the end of the Great Tribulation Period, God, Satan, the angels, and demons gather all the nations to Israel to wipe her off the face of the earth. Joel 3:2: I will gather all the nations and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat [Kidron Valley between the Mt. of Olives and Old City Jerusalem]. And I will enter into judgment with them there, on behalf of my people and my heritage Israel, because they have scattered them among the nations and have divided up my land. Revelation 16:13-16: And I saw coming out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet, three unclean spirits like frogs; 14 for they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the entire world, to gather them together for the war of the great day of God, the Almighty . 15 (“Behold, I am coming like a thief. Blessed is the one who stays awake and keeps his clothes, so that he will not walk about naked and people will not see his shame.”) 16 And they gathered them together to the place which in Hebrew is called Har-Magedon [Jezreel Valley where Megiddo is located]. Part of this last battle will also take place in northern Israel. Revelation 14:14-20: Then I looked, and behold, a white cloud, and sitting on the cloud was one like a son of man, with a golden crown on His head and a sharp sickle in His hand. 15 And another angel came out of the temple, calling out with a loud voice to Him who sat on the cloud, “Put in your sickle and reap, for the hour to reap has come, because the harvest of the earth is ripe.” 16 Then He who sat on the cloud swung His sickle over the earth, and the earth was reaped. And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, and he also had a sharp sickle. 18 Then another angel, the one who has power over fire, came out from the altar; and he called with a loud voice to him who had the sharp sickle, saying, “Put in your sharp sickle and gather the clusters from the vine of the earth, because her grapes are ripe.” 19 So the angel swung his sickle to the earth and gathered the clusters from the vine of the earth, and threw them into the great wine press of the wrath of God. 20 And the wine press was trampled outside the city, and blood came out from the wine press, up to the horses’ bridles, for a distance of 1,600 stadia [180 miles, 290km.). Matthew 25:31-33: “But when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne. 32 And all the nations will be gathered before Him ; and He will separate them from one another, just as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats; 33 and He will put the sheep on His right, but the goats on the left. Matthew 25:45-46: Then He will answer them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it for one of the least of these, you did not do it for Me, either.’ 46 These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life .” This last battle will be the battle of all battles. Christ will descend in power and great glory with the armies of heaven, which are the angels and believers in Christ in their glorified bodies. It’s His mere presence that wipes out all the nations, defeats Satan and his demonic angels, and institutes the Millennial Reign, where He will reign on earth from Jerusalem for a 1,000 years. All believers in Jesus Christ will reign with Him. After the 1,000 years, He will destroy the present heaven and earth and create brand new ones where believers in Christ will dwell with Him forever and ever. God will have fulfilled His master plan for creation, and all will be settled for eternity. Summary of the Three Coming Wars According to the Bible, which is extremely trustworthy, it predicts three major wars that will await Israel in the future. 1. The great battle of Gog and Magog. 2. The persecution of the Jews in Israel by the Antichrist in the middle of the Great Tribulation Period. 3. The gathering of all nations against Israel at the end of the Great Tribulation when Christ comes back to the earth in power and great glory. Faith Lesson 1. In all these wars, the major storyline we see is that mainly Muslim nations, along with other nations, have a desire to eliminate Is rael and the Jews. However, the amazing reality is that God will supernaturally protect Israel because He still has a plan and purpose for her. 2. The main source of the conflicts moving forward will come from Islamic-run countries. Their goal is to conquer the world for Allah by whatever means necessary. This includes every kind of terror imaginable. Therefore, they will be the main players in events moving forward. 3. It’s very logical and probable that the Antichrist will be a Muslim. As we have seen, in Muslim theology, a prophesied future Muslim leader will rule from the Temple Mount over the entire world for seven years. 4. Now, while the Islamic-run countries who will be against Israel in the last days think they are fighting against Israel, they are really fighting against God almighty. This is a war no one can win. 5. There will be a growing hatred against Israel and Christians in these last days. This can even be seen today in 2023, as the UN, with overwhelming support, called for Israel to stop its military campaign to defend itself by taking out Hamas in the Gaza Strip. I wonder what each of these countries would do if they had Hamas launching endless rockets into their countries and killing thousands and kidnapping hundreds of its citizens. I’m sure they would defend themselves. 6 . God has a plan for Israel, and He will be the one who defends them supernaturally. God will fulfill this major prophecy as He has fulfilled every other one. You can count on that. Zechariah 12:1-5: The oracle of the word of the Lord concerning Israel: Thus declares the Lord, who stretched out the heavens and founded the earth and formed the spirit of man within him: 2 “Behold, I am about to make Jerusalem a cup of staggering to all the surrounding peoples . The siege of Jerusalem will also be against Judah. 3 On that day I will make Jerusalem a heavy stone for all the peoples. All who lift it will surely hurt themselves. And all the nations of the earth will gather against it . 4 On that day, declares the Lord, I will strike every horse with panic, and its rider with madness. But for the sake of the house of Judah I will keep my eyes open, when I strike every horse of the peoples with blindness. 5 Then the clans of Judah shall say to themselves, ‘The inhabitants of Jerusalem have strength through the Lord of hosts, their God.’ 7. God will fight for Israel, and it will be victorious. So, the future is actually bright for Israel. All the world sill see and know this. It will survive all the wars and conflicts because God is her helper and defender. The future will sometimes be ugly due to wars, but God will use all this for His good purposes to carry out His divine master plan for His creation. 8. God loves everyone and will extend His hand of grace and love to all who will receive it through Jesus Christ. 9. As we see these end times events unfolding before our eyes, we need to realize that God is in control and working out everything according to His good purposes. Therefore, we should be at peace, trusting in God, a nd certain we are right with God and ready for His return.

If this artifact is true, it proves the death and resurrection of Jesus. This is a total game-changer. Join us as we look at the evidence! You'll be amazed at what is discussed! Shroud of Turin (Jesus), In Italy Photo Gallery Shroud of Turin (Jesus), In Italy Fact or Fiction? If you want to know everything about the Shroud of Turin, we provide a complete analysis of this extremely unique artifact here. What Is It? Is the Shroud found in the Bible? Why Is It Called the Shroud of Turin? Where Is the Shroud Located Today? Has the Shroud always been a Catholic Relic? How Was the Shroud Wrapped Around the Body? What Is Its Historical Timeline? What Are the Arguments Supporting the Shroud's Authenticity? What Are the Arguments Against Its Authenticity? Conclusion Faith Lesson for Us Today What Is It? 1. The Shroud of Turin is a 2,000-year-old linen cloth bearing the image of a man who suffered injuries consistent with crucifixion. Many believe it to be Jesus' burial linen cloth, as found in the four gospels in the Bible. 2. The cloth measures about 14.5 feet (4.4 meters) long and 3.5 feet (1 meter) wide. 3. It is the most studied and researched artifact today. It defies science and is a historical artifact that continues to captivate people worldwide. It has been a subject of religious devotion and scientific scrutiny for years. 4. The Shroud has two amazing factors. First, the image is just two or three microns thick and disappears if you get closer than about 8 feet (2.5 meters) to the Shroud. This baffles scientists and confirms it's not a work of art or man-made. Second, the image is just on the surface and was created by a tremendous burst of light, amounting to around 34 trillion watts of energy, taking 1/4th of a billionth of a second to leave the image on the Shroud. Otherwise, it would have scorched the image and destroyed it. 5. Science shows that the blood on the Shroud was there first, and then the image was created from the massive energy that came later. The Shroud is estimated to have several pints of blood on it. What is fascinating is that the Shroud shows evidence of the crucifixion and resurrection of the man in it. 6. To date, around 102 different scientific disciplines have spent over 600,000 hours studying the Shroud, and they virtually all agree it defies science and is unexplainable by natural laws. 7. Many photos seen of the Shroud's image are photo negatives. This image reproduces bright portions of the photographed subject as dark and the dark parts as light. A natural image doesn't show the details like a negative image. 8. The negative image also has 3-dimensional properties that are unexplainable. 9. As of the time of this filming, there is an offer of 1 million dollars to anyone who can replicate the Shroud. No one has been able to do it even using all our modern high-tech technology. Join us on this fascinating journey as we examine the evidence to determine whether this relic is authentic or a hoax. If it is authentic, the ramifications are staggering. Is the Shroud Found in the Bible? The Bible Affirms Jesus Was Wrapped In Linen Cloths (Shroud) at His Burial In All Four Gospels Matthew 27:57-60: When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who also was a disciple of Jesus. 58 He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate ordered it to be given to him. 59 And Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen shroud 60 and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had cut in the rock. And he rolled a great stone to the entrance of the tomb and went away. Mark 15:45-46: And when he learned from the centurion that he was dead, he granted the corpse to Joseph [of Arimathea]. 46 And Joseph bought a linen shroud , and taking him down, wrapped him in the linen shroud and laid him in a tomb that had been cut out of the rock. Luke 23:53: Then he [Joseph of Arimathea] took it down and wrapped it in a linen shroud and laid him in a tomb cut in stone, where no one had ever yet been laid. Luke 24:12: But Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; and he went home marveling at what had happened. John 19:40: So they took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews. John 20:4-7: Both of them were running together, but the other disciple [John] outran Peter and reached the tomb first. 5 And stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in. 6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen cloths lying there, 7 and the face cloth , which had been on Jesus' head, not lying with the linen cloths but folded up in a place by itself. Why Is It Called the Shroud of Turin? It has this name because it has been stored in Turin, Italy, since 1578. It's also widely known as the Shroud of Jesus. Where Is the Shroud Located Today? It's stored at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Turin, Italy. It's housed in a climate-controlled case in a chapel built just to hold it. However, because of its extremely fragile state, the shroud is not viewable to the public except during very rare public viewings, as the pope determines. Has the Shroud always been a Catholic Relic? No, the House of Savoy entrusted the Shroud of Turin to the Catholic Pope (and each succeeding Pope) in 1983. It seems there is some relation with the Vatican as well. So, it is technically not entrusted to the Catholic Church. It has been in the hands of many people and places throughout its long history. How Was the Shroud Wrapped Around the Body? The long linen cloth was laid down, and the body was placed on the lower part of the cloth. Next, the cloth was folded over the entire body, with the head at the centerfold, ending at the feet, where it began. Then strips of linen were wrapped around the shroud and body to keep the shroud in place. A head covering was also used. This is consistent with Lazarus being raised from the dead in John 11:43-44: When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” 44 The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen , and a cloth around his face. How Tall Was the Man Covered in the Shroud? According to the image on the Shroud, the body would have been about 6 feet (1.83 meters) tall. This is taller than the average height of a person in Israel during the time of Jesus. However, this would be consistent with Jesus because in order to minister to the multitudes, he would have had to be taller than others, or he wouldn't have been seen or heard. What Is Its Historical Timeline? 33 AD The Bible describes Jesus being wrapped in a linen cloth after the crucifixion. Some believe the Shroud was kept secretly by early Christians because of persecution under Roman rule. 100 AD Legend and folklore speak of a mysterious cloth with healing power bearing an image of Jesus that arrived in Edessa (now Urfa, Turkey) in the First Century AD. The Apostle Jude Thaddeus, one of the original Apostles of Jesus Christ, is associated with bringing the cloth from Jerusalem to Edessa. 525 AD After a severe flood destroyed most of Edessa, the cloth was removed from the walls where it had been hidden for over 400 years. The cloth became known as "The Image of Edessa" and later was called “The True Likeness of Christ Not Made by Human Hands.” All Orthodox icons of Jesus and Byzantine coins dramatically changed to conform to the "True Likeness" image featured a man with long hair, a full beard, large eyes, and a flattened nose—all of which are stylistically similar to the Shroud image. Additionally, Byzantine texts describe a folded cloth bearing the image of Jesus “not made by human hands” hidden in a wall in Edessa. 944 AD The Byzantine Imperial Army invaded Edessa to retrieve the cloth from the city that had fallen to Islam. The cloth was taken to Constantinople (now Istanbul) and presented to the Emperor. The cloth was reportedly shown during church feasts. 1203 AD A document from French Crusader Robert de Clari describes a cloth in Constantinople showing the full body of Christ, displayed every Friday — some say this refers to the Shroud. 1204 AD The Fourth Crusade invaded Constantinople, and the revered cloth disappeared. Some historians believe the Shroud was held secretly by the Knights Templar before 1356, when it was displayed in France. Vatican research from 2009 supports this long-time oral tradition. 1354 The Shroud reappeared in the hands of French knight Geoffrey de Charny, who displayed it at a church he founded in Lirey, France. 1453 Geoffrey’s granddaughter, Marguerite de Charny, gave the Shroud to the royal House of Savoy. 1502 The Shroud was no longer displayed in different churches within the House of Savoy Kingdom, but was given a permanent home in the royal chapel at Chambery, also known as Sainte Chapelle. 1532 A fire damaged the Shroud in Chambery Chapel, where it was stored. A drop of molten silver from the container produced a symmetrically placed mark through the layers of the folded cloth. Poor Clare Nuns, a group of nuns, repaired this damage with patches. Some have suggested that water damage also occurred when the fire was being extinguished. These burn marks are still visible. 1578 It was moved to Turin, Italy, where it has remained to this day. What Are the Arguments Supporting the Shroud's Authenticity? 1. The Image Itself Is a Mystery The image on the Shroud is not painted, drawn, or dyed — no pigment or brushstrokes have been found. When viewed as a negative image, it appears more detailed and lifelike. This is something not understood until it was first photographed in 1898. The image also contains 3D information, which is very rare. When processed by image analyzers like the NASA VP-8, it produces a three-dimensional relief, unlike typical photographs or paintings. 2. The Marks on the Shroud Match Exactly the Wounds of the Crucifixion of Jesus Bloodstains on the head are compatible with a crown of thorns. There is no historical account of anyone being crucified with a crown of thorns. The Shroud didn't touch every part of the body. But considering the parts it did touch, there are over 120 scourges or marks, creating over 370 lacerations. It's estimated the body would have had over 700 lacerations. This is compatible with Roman flogging and what Jesus endured. He was beaten at the House of Caiaphas, the High Priest, before Pilate, before Herod, and then again severely before Pilate. Nail wounds on the wrists. Roman crucifixion generally put nails through the wrists to better support the weight of a body on a cross. Nails through the hand typically wouldn't support the weight and rip through. The wrist was considered part of the hand during this period. Nail wounds in the feet. The man’s feet were on top of one another. The legs are slightly bent due to rigor mortis, a muscle stiffness that sets in quickly after death and lasts less than four days. After four days, the muscles relax and the body becomes limp. Interestingly, Jesus rose from the dead after three days and nights in the tomb. Blood from the body runs downward, showing evidence of the man being crucified. There are no stains or signs of the body decomposing. This is compatible with Jesus' resurrection, which happened on the third day before the body had time to decay. Wound in the side, compatible in size with a Roman spear tip. Post-mortem blood flow from the side wound also flows across the back. The man's legs were not broken. This would be consistent with what happened to Jesus. Interestingly, the two men crucified with Jesus both had their legs broken. Marks on the back of the man from carrying a wooden beam. This is consistent with Jesus carrying His cross. Deviated septum. This would have been caused by the heavy blows Jesus received to His face by the Roman soldiers. 3. Authentic Human Bloodstains The blood on the Shroud is type AB, a Jewish blood type found in less than 3% of the world's population. So the Shroud most likely originated from Israel. The blood is real human blood and shows signs of the chemical bilirubin. It's produced by the liver during extreme trauma or stress. This is consistent with the traumatic injuries that Jesus would have suffered. The blood on the Shroud is reddish. Normally, blood turns blackish when exposed to oxygen. The chemical bilirubin keeps the blood reddish and stops it from turning blackish, which is again consistent with Christ's sufferings before and during the crucifixion. 4. Pollen, Dust, and Plant Evidence The pollen grains found on the Shroud are from plants native to Jerusalem. Some of these plants bloom only in the spring, around the time of Passover. Additionally, other pollen on the Shroud matches perfectly with the places it has traveled throughout its history, such as Jerusalem, Northern Syria, Turkey, and Europe. Limestone Dust from Jerusalem on the Shroud 5. Weaving Style and Material It is made of expensive cloth using the exceptionally durable herringbone weave pattern. It was rare but well-known in the ancient Middle East and is consistent with 1st-century Jewish burial cloths. The linen matches first-century Jewish burial customs. Even the seam on the shroud is identical to stitching found only at Masada, a Jewish fortress destroyed by the Romans in 73 AD. It perfectly matches the Bible's account of being donated by Joseph of Arimathea, who was very wealthy. We also have other ancient clothing that has been preserved. Some are as old as 5,000 years. So, it's not abnormal to have ancient clothing preserved. 6. A Byzantine coin from 692 AD shows Jesus on a cross resembling the Shroud's face. 7. Scientific Affirmation that the Shroud of Turin is Authentic In 1978, King Umberto II, the owner of the Shroud at the time, authorized comprehensive hands-on testing for a group called the "Shroud of Turin Research Project," also known as STURP. The group was made up of over 30 distinguished scientists. STURP’s findings remain a primary scientific source cataloging the Shroud’s unique properties. Below is a partial list of the STURP findings: No substances were manually applied to the cloth. No artistic substances such as paint, ink, dye, pigments, or stain were used to constitute the image. No collagen binder as would be used with paint. No fibers are cemented to each other as with paint. No liquids were applied to create the image. No substances were found between the threads, as with dust rubbing. Bloodstains on the cloth tested positive for heme, bile, serum albumin, and other human blood components. The blood is of the male type, AB. The blood marks seen on the shroud are consistent with a contact transfer to the cloth of blood clot exudates that would have resulted from major wounds inflicted on a man who died in the position of crucifixion. The following are image characteristics found on or about the Shroud: The image is purely superficial. It does not penetrate the cloth but only rests on the top two micro-fibers. (Analogous to the Shroud image resting on the hairs of your forearm.) The image is a photographic negative that develops as a positive. The image contains 3D “distance information” similar to a topographical map. No directionality to the image, as found with a brush or any substance application tool. No variation in the depth of the image. (Virtually impossible with human hands.) The yellowing of the image is uniform in intensity. No outline or defined edges are found on the image. STURP conclusion: “There are no chemical or physical methods known which can account for the totality of the image, nor can any combination of physical, chemical, biological, or medical circumstances explain the image adequately.” 8. Latest Scientific Affirmations As mentioned earlier, it is impressive that around 102 different scientific disciplines have spent over 600,000 hours studying the Shroud, and the great majority of them have concluded that it is indeed 2,000 years old and authentic. The Institute of Crystallography in Italy has confirmed, using wide-angle x-ray scattering technology (WAXS), that the Shroud of Turin is 2,000 years old. Paolo Di Lazzaro of ENEA Laboratory in Italy conducted a five-year study and calculated that it would have taken 34,000 trillion watts of energy, or 1/4th of a billionth of a second, to leave the image on the Shroud. Otherwise, it would have scorched the image and destroyed it. The image is just two or three microns thick and disappears if you get closer than 8 feet (2.5 meters) to the Shroud. This baffles scientists and confirms it's not a work of art or man-made. What Are the Arguments Against Its Authenticity? 1. Radiocarbon Dating In 1988, the Vatican provided three laboratories in different countries with a postage-stamp-sized piece of the Shroud’s linen cloth. Carbon-14 dating from all three laboratories concluded that the cloth had been made sometime between 1260 and 1390 AD, thus indicating that it was not authentic and was a hoax. As a result, this news hit all the news outlets and became a major story. It seemed the Shroud was proven to be a forgery from the Middle Ages. However, some scientists raised doubts about the researchers’ methodology. Recently, it has been verified that the test pieces from the Shroud were from repairs that had been carefully done on a corner of the linen and not from the actual fabric itself. Based on these recent test results, the Vatican encouraged scientists to conduct further investigations of the shroud’s authenticity. In 2022, researchers in Italy published the results of a study in which they used the technique of wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) to analyze a small piece of the shroud. The study concluded that the structural degradations of the Shroud’s linen were “fully compatible” with those of another linen sample dating to 55–74 AD. The 2022 study’s results bolstered the hypothesis that the Shroud of Turin truly is from the time of Christ. 2. Artistic Techniques Critics argue that the image could have been created using medieval methods, such as bas-relief or other artistic techniques. However, recent discoveries and the most recent technology have nullified these claims. 3. The Shroud Lacks Historical Documentation Throughout Its Entire History Some argue that its documented history only begins in 1356 AD, leaving a supposed gap from its beginning until then. An essential fact about the Shroud's history is that it has two distinct periods. The first is before 1356, based on circumstantial evidence, legend, art, and coins. The second is after 1356, when the Shroud's trail is documented and accepted by historians. The Shroud's timeline before 1356 AD is quite verifiable and credible. Legends, art, coins, etc., are commonly valued highly when attempting to verify historical events. This same standard should apply to the Shroud as well. Just because the history from its beginning to 1356 is not documented as well as after that time, does not nullify all the scientific tests done on it. It's a very weak argument against the Shroud's authenticity. Conclusion Whether or not the Shroud is authentic doesn't affect the historicity of Jesus and our faith. We have overwhelming evidence for the existence of Christ and His death and resurrection, so the Shroud isn't needed to prove this. Someone has said that if we stacked the written evidence supporting the Shroud's authenticity, it would reach the ceiling height in a typical house. The evidence against the Shroud's authenticity amounts to a few weak arguments. As mentioned earlier, as of the time of this filming, there is an offer of 1 million dollars to anyone who can replicate the Shroud. No one has been able to do it even using all our modern high-tech technology. With this being the case, it's virtually impossible that the Shroud could be a forgery from the Middle Ages. The Shroud's authenticity is beyond a reasonable doubt and overwhelmingly provides sufficient evidence to convince any modern-day "Doubting Thomas." The DNA of Jesus is not available, so the Shroud can never be 100 percent proven to be his burial cloth. (Although many would argue that the Sudarium of Oviedo provides a blood and stain match.) The fact that the Shroud exists and has been preserved for around 2000 years strongly suggests its high value and supernatural preservation. It is not just any old cloth that endures for millennia if something special isn't going on. Historian John Walsh gives us a good perspective on the Shroud: “The Shroud is either the most awesome and instructive relic of Christ in existence, or it is one of the most ingenious, most unbelievably clever products of the human mind and hand on record. It is either one or the other; there is no middle ground.” After four decades of devoted study to the Shroud of Turin, the French historian Jean-Christian Petitfils is fully convinced that the face unveiled to the world by the Italian photographer Secondo Pia in 1898 is indeed that of Jesus Christ in the tomb. We, at HolyLandSite.com Ministries, are convinced the Shroud is authentic. Faith Lesson for Us Today from the Shroud of Turin 1. Jesus voluntarily submitted to the most horrible manner of death possible to pay for our sins and grant us eternal life. The Shroud provides additional evidence of what Jesus suffered for us. The 120 flogging marks, the 700 or more lacerations, and the beatings show His love. Romans 5:8 says, "But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." What about us? Have we received Christ's gift of salvation, and are we grateful for what He did for us? 2. The physical suffering Jesus endured to pay for our sins was overwhelming. However, the spiritual suffering He paid was even greater. What about us? Do we understand how much Jesus loves us and wants to have a relationship with us? 3. Regardless of whether the Shroud of Turin is authentic, we have so much more evidence supporting the death and resurrection of Jesus. What about us? Do we believe the truthfulness of the resurrection of Jesus, or are we skeptical and unbelieving? 4. With the overwhelming evidence that the Shroud is authentic, we are not to worship it in any way. We worship God, not a thing. 5. The evidence for the authenticity of the Shroud of Turin meets the standard of truthfulness beyond a reasonable doubt. Thus, we have an accurate representation of the Face of God. This is amazing! What about us? Does this change our hearts and make us grateful to God for preserving this relic for us to behold today?

Holy Land Tour Trips to Israel. In-depth Bible-centered tour trips to Israel. October 22 - November 7, 2027, 17-Day Package Trip. Affordable tours of all the biblical sites in Israel. Holy Land Tour Trip to Is rael The Holy Land Experience Trip of a Lifetime October 22 ~ November 7, 2027 17-Day Trip (Includes travel to and from Israel) You can shorten the trip if needed. You can start or depart the tour at any time. Our Holy Land Trips are open to anyone worldwide with a valid passport for travel to Israel. Would you like a life-changing, unforgettable experience in the Holy Land? If so, we're delighted to invite you to join us on a trip of a lifetime to the Land of the Bible, where you will gain a new dimension in understanding the Bible and the life of Jesus. We will take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee and visit places where Jesus walked, lived, taught, performed miracles, walked on the water, calmed the sea, and was crucified and raised from the dead. We will immerse ourselves in the Land of the Bible and experience it in our souls. After a trip like this, you will never be the same, and you will never read your Bible the same way. If you want a Bible-rich experience, this trip is for you. At each site, we will give biblical and historical teaching, along with a faith lesson. Therefore, this trip is designed to provide an in-depth study and perspective on the events and places of the Bible as outlined in the Scriptures. Our goal is to offer a highly biblical, non-touristy, and inspirational trip to the Land of the Bible. Our trips also include off-the-beaten-path sites. ___________________ "An absolutely amazing trip with a guy who knows his Bible and can relate it to you in-country. I've gone to Israel with this dear friend of mine twice. It's an 11 out of 10 trip!" Dan Reeves "I've looked and looked, but I just haven't found any groups with the same approach I got spoiled by when we went with you to Israel. Also, they're not really Bible-teaching tours. Your teaching tour is still head and shoulders above anything else, so if it works out, I'd like to go with you again next year." Todd Yaney Quick Links Registration Form (Required for each person) Deposit Payment ~ $500 USD Final Payment ~ $1,950 USD Hotel Reservation Bookings & Airplane Flights About Your Tour Hosts Trip Registration, Deposits, Payments, & Cancelation Info Documents Needed to Enter Israel Itinerary Holy Land Trip Travel Orientation Helpful Holy Land Learning Resources Anchor 5 The Holy Land Experience! 17-Day Trip (Includes travel to and from Israel) Total Holy Land Trip Cost: $5,950 USD COST BREAKDOWN HolyLandSite.com Fee: $2 ,4 50 USD Items Included in HolyLandSite.com Fee: Transportation in Israel via a deluxe A/C motorcoach. All park & entrance passes. Holy Land Site tour guide and Bible teacher (Dr. Todd Fink). Wireless headsets for a better listening experience. All tips for the tour bus driver and hotel staff. Personal Expenses: $3,500 USD To keep our trips as affordable as possible and allow maximum flexibility, tour participants book their own lodging and airfare and pay for their own meals. The costs below are estimates. Your price may vary depending on airfare from your location, room selection, and your preferred dining level. Items each individual pays for on their own: Meals in Israel: $500 per person ~ You can eat at the hotels, local restaurants, or in your room. Lodging in Israel: $1,550 per person ~ Based on private, double-occupancy rooms. ~ We provide links to the three hotels we use, and you book them. ~ Hotels can be found below . Airfare: $1,400 per person Personal transportation in Israel: $50 per person Note: Personal transportation includes travel from Ben Gurion Airport to the Abba Hotel in Tel Aviv and from the Prima Park Hotel in Jerusalem to Ben Gurion Airport. Taxis are the best option. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate everyone's schedules because our tour participants have different arrival and departure times. However, we are happy to help with these arrangements in any way possible. Total Cost of Trip HolyLandSite.com Fee: $2,4 50 Personal Costs: $3,500 (Estimated Costs) Total: $5,95 0 USD THIS IS A CUSTOM-DESIGNED TRIP If you want to spend more time in Israel and see more holy sites, this trip is designed for you. Most Holy Land trips include around 7-8 full touring days in Israel. This severely limits what you can see. As a result, many who go to the Holy Land miss significant holy sites. Our trips include 13 full touring days in Israel. This allows you to see almost every significant site in Israel. A 17-day trip like ours is typically quite expensive (if you can find one). Why can we do it so inexpensively? We eliminate tour companies, travel agencies, and tour guides, and provide these services directly. You can also book your own airfare and lodging and pay for your own meals, giving you great flexibility and options. We are pleased to serve you and our Lord Jesus Christ by offering this unique, affordable trip of a lifetime. Because this is a custom trip, each participant is responsible for booking their airfare and lodging and purchasing their meals. DO WE OFFER SHORTER TOUR TRIPS? If the trip is too long, you can start or end at any time. You don't need to participate in the entire trip. MEALS IN ISRAEL (Paid by Each Individual) Eating in Israel is really quite simple. Below is what most people on our tours do: Breakfast ~ Hotels provide a large buffet-style breakfast, which you can pay for when you book your lodging or at the hotel. We highly recommend eating breakfast at the hotels as it saves a lot of time. They are large buffet meals that are already prepared, hot, and ready to eat. However, you can eat breakfast at a local restaurant or make it yourself in your hotel room if desired (all rooms have small refrigerators). Lunch ~ Because eating out is expensive in Israel, time-consuming with a large group, and we will not always be close to a restaurant while sightseeing, each trip participant will need to prepare a daily sack lunch. You can buy lunch items at local grocery stores, or take extra items and leftovers from the hotel breakfast buffets. All hotels have in-room refrigerators. Dinner ~ Many enjoy the local culture by eating out at local restaurants. However, if you prefer to eat at the hotels, they offer large buffet-style dinners. You can also buy food at local stores and eat in your hotel room if desired (all rooms have small refrigerators). PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Those considering this trip should be in reasonably good physical shape. Our estimated daily walking distance (including some steps and minor hiking) will be about 2 to 4 miles (3 to 6 km). Each day includes about 8 hours of sightseeing. If you'd like, you can take a day off or stay on the tour bus to rest at any time during the trip. GROUP SIZE LIMIT To provide a more intimate, enhanced experience, we limit our group size to about 40 people. This allows us to be more efficient and see more places in Israel. Larger teams bring a different dynamic that slows things down and makes travel more difficult. AIR TRAVEL Each person will be responsible for booking their own air travel to Israel (Ben Gurion Airport). Please plan to arrive with plenty of time to attend our required orientation and get-acquainted meeting, scheduled for 7:00 pm at the Abba Hotel in Tel Aviv. Because of customs, luggage collection, and other factors, please allow 3 hours from your arrival at the airport to your arrival at the hotel. The hotel is about 15 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. Note: If you have the time and resources, arriving a day early will let you rest and better prepare for your experience in Israel. TRANSPORTATION IN ISRAEL We will travel by a large, air-conditioned motorcoach . Our bus driver is an Arab Christian who can take us to all the sites in Israel. LODGING IN ISRAEL During our time in Israel, we will stay at three nice hotels with private rooms and bathrooms. Our itinerary shows the hotels where we will stay: Tel Aviv, Tiberias, and Jerusalem. LUGGAGE SIZE AND AMOUNT We don't have a specific luggage size or number allowance per person, but we suggest keeping each piece of luggage under 40-50 lbs (18-22 kg) to make handling easier. The lighter, the better. You will be responsible for handling your luggage during the trip (though we or others in the group can help if needed), so please pack only what you can comfortably lift. PARK & ENTRANCE PASSES Holy Land Site Ministries will pay all park and entrance fees for all sites. You are responsible for paying any entrance fees for sites you want to visit during your free time. WHAT WILL OUR VISITS TO EACH SITE BE LIKE? Our visits will typically last around two hours. We'll begin with an introduction to the site, then explore and experience its key points of interest. During the tour, we will take our time and walk at a leisurely pace, stopping along the way to explore and discuss the points of interest. Our estimated daily walking distance (including some steps and minor hiking) will be about 2 to 4 miles (3 to 6 km). We'll then find a quiet spot to reflect on the main Bible events that took place there and conclude with a faith lesson that teaches the key truths God wants us to learn. Afterward, you will have approximately 15 minutes to purchase souvenirs and use the bathroom. TRIP PREPARATION Please use the videos and information on our website, which provide helpful guidance and orientation to help you better understand the many biblical sites we will visit, Israel's history, and other relevant information. We will also provide helpful details leading up to our trip so you can get the most out of your Holy Land experience. We also ask that you familiarize yourself with our Travel Orientation Material, which can be found on our website. You will find it extremely helpful. TIME OF YEAR FOR THIS TRIP We chose these dates to visit Israel because the weather is stable and no Jewish holidays will interfere with our travels. DAILY ITINERARY Please note that we may adjust the schedule slightly due to circumstances beyond our control. MONEY IN ISRAEL Credit cards and Dollars are readily accepted, and you can withdraw shekels from ATMs. INTERNET IN ISRAEL You can buy a phone SIM or eSIM for around $20.00 if you want Internet service in Israel: IsraelieSIM - Israel's fastest cellular network | Pelephone . You can also activate your phone for international service. If your phone service doesn't include Internet access, free Wi-Fi is available at each hotel, and the tour bus offers complimentary Internet service. DIGITAL MAPS OF DAILY TRIP ITINERARY For each day's tour itinerary , we provide a link to a Google Map of the route and sites we'll see . These maps are in the Itinerary Section. Here's an example: Tour Day 1: G oogle Map Itinerary DAILY SCHEDULE We will meet in the main hotel lobby each day at 7:15 am to depart for the tour bus. The tour bus will leave the hotel promptly at 7:30 am. Unfortunately, we cannot wait for late arrivals, so each person is responsible for being on time. We have a schedule, and the bus will depart promptly at the indicated times . Thank you for your understanding. After returning to the hotel each day, you will have free time to relax, dine at the hotel, explore local sites, dine out, and experience local culture. PERSONAL TRAVEL IN ISRAEL You can take a taxi, walk, or use the bus or light rail train system. It's helpful to have Internet service (you can activate your phone or obtain an Israeli SIM or eSIM card) and use Google or Apple Maps to navigate. It will tell you which bus, light rail train, or walking route suits you best. It also works in real time, so you can see exactly when buses and trains arrive and depart. AGE LIMIT The minimum age for trip participants is 12, unless you have made other arrangements with us. ITINERARY Please see our detailed itinerary below. DOCUMENTS NEEDED TO ENTER ISRAEL Valid Passport Our Holy Land Trips are open to anyone worldwide with a valid passport for travel to Israel. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. B2 Stay Permit You receive this permit upon arrival at the airport. Self-service kiosks let you scan your passport and print your B2 Stay Permit. Keep this permit safe, as you will need to present it multiple times during your stay in Israel. For convenience, you may want to place it inside your passport or wallet. Here is our helpful Ben Gurion Arrival Orientation Video that shows all about this: https://youtu.be/65N9VktYE0c Visas Israel does not require Visas from almost all countries. However, if you are from a country that Israel requires a visa for, you will need to check and verify this in advance. ETA-IL Electronic Document Travel rules to Israel have changed. Starting in January 2025, visitors from Visa-exempt countries (meaning you don't need a Visa to enter Israel) must obtain an ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter Israel. An approved ETA-IL allows you to travel to Israel and stay up to 90 days per visit. All Visa-exempt travelers to Israel must obtain ETA-IL approval before starting their journey. ETA-IL is designed to smooth border control upon arrival in Israel and ensure Israel's national security. How long is an ETA-IL valid? An ETA-IL lets you travel to Israel as a tourist and stay up to 90 days. Your ETA-IL authorization is generally valid for multiple trips within two years of approval, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. What does the ETA-IL application cost? 25 NIS ($7.50 USD) per applicant. How to apply for an ETA-IL? You apply online through the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority website. Here's the link: ETA-IL (piba.gov.il) When to apply for ETA-IL Please apply at least one month before your departure date to allow time for any issues that may arise. You can submit your application sooner if you prefer. Helpful video from the Israeli government website about the ETA-IL document and how to obtain it: How to Use ETA-IL for Eligibility to Enter Israel Anchor 1 TOUR HOSTS Todd & Letsy Fink More about the Finks TRIP REGISTRATION, DEPOSITS, PAYMENTS, & CANCELATION INFO HOW TO REGISTER & CONFIRM YOUR SPOT 1. Please fill out the online registration form, and we will notify you of your acceptance to the tour team. 2. After being notified of your acceptance to the tour team, please pay your non-refundable registration deposit of $500 USD. Your deposit is what confirms your spot on the tour team. REGISTRATION, DEPOSIT, AND FINAL PAYMENT LINKS Registration Form (Required for each person) Deposit Payment ~ $500 USD Final Payment ~ $1,950 USD FINAL PAYMENT DEADLINE Your final payment deadline is August 1, 2027 . If you wish to attend this trip after August 1 , 2027, we will handle reservations based on space availability. Thanks for your understanding. CANCEL ATIONS & REFUNDS Deposit Payment to Holy Land Site Ministries All deposit payments are non-refundable and non-transferable to other trip dates, as HolyLandSite.com invests significant overhead in each trip, including reservations, office staff, travel arrangements, bus rental, and so forth, which cannot be recovered. Refund of Final Payment to Holy Land Site Ministries 1. If you need to cancel your trip for personal reasons before August 1, 2027 , Holy Land Site Ministries will only be able to refund one-half of your final payment. 2. If you must cancel your trip for personal reasons after August 1 , 2027 , Holy Land Site Ministries will not be able to refund any of your final payment due to expenses already incurred that cannot be recovered. Transferring Payments to a Different Tour Trip Date Unfortunately, we cannot transfer payments from one tour trip to another. Refunds from Purchases of Airline Tickets, Lodging, etc. Holy Land Site Ministries cannot refund any of these funds because they were not paid to Holy Land Site Ministries. Refund if the Trip is Canceled Due to Events Out of Our Control, like COVID, Other Viruses, War, and So Forth 1. 100% of the final payment to Holy Land Site Ministries will be refunded. 2. The deposit payment of $500 is not refundable because HolyLandSite.com has many overhead commitments invested in each trip, such as reservations, office staff, travel commitments, bus rental, and so forth, that cannot be recuperated. However, rest assured that we are "Old School" and don't cancel trips unless we absolutely can't go. Our experience leading tours during wartime shows we don't cancel trips. 3. Refunds from flights and lodging will be the responsibility of each person, as these were booked personally. 4. Unfortunately, Holy Land Site Ministries cannot act as your trip insurance if the trip must be canceled or you choose to cancel for personal reasons. Therefore, we encourage you to follow our suggestions below to book your trip with little financial commitment. IDEAS TO BOOK YOUR TRIP WITH LITTLE FINANCIAL COMMITMENT 1. Book Your Lodging Through Booking.com They require no upfront charge and allow free cancelation up to one week or so before your trip. 2. If Possible, Book Your Airfare with Cancelation Coverage 3. Buy Trip Protection Insurance If you would like trip protection insurance to protect you in the event of trip cancelation for any reason, many third-party insurance agencies offer travel protection insurance in case of unforeseen cancelations. Travel Protection Agency Options Travel Guard: https://www.travelguard.com Allianz Travel Insurance: allianztravelinsurance.com Seven Corners: sevencorners.com World Nomads: https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-insurance HOTEL RESERVATION BOOKINGS & AIRLINE FLIGHTS Lodging If you have the time and resources, arriving a day or two early in Israel will let you rest up and better prepare for your experience. Hotels generally allow bookings about one year in advance. Please book your lodging as soon as possible within this timeframe, as accommodations in Israel fill up quickly. Flights You can book your flights at your convenience. Most people book their flights 4 to 6 months before the trip. Israel's main international airport is Ben Gurion Airport, abbreviated TLV. HOTEL RESERVATION BOOKING LINKS We strongly suggest choosing the "Free Cancelation" option when booking. This will protect you if your plans change unexpectedly. You can book using the hotel's direct links below (best price) or through the booking platform of your choice. When booking your lodging, please mention in the message section that you are part of the HolyLandSite.com Tour Group. They will offer you better rooms and other benefits. Be certain to check your dates. Some of the hotel sites can be a little confusing. The dates you want to confirm will appear directly to the right of the room selection. Abba Hotel Tel Aviv-Yafo - Formerly Numa, Sheerit Israel 1, Tel Aviv Check-in: October 23 Check-out: October 24 , one-night stay. Hotel Direct Reservation Link Emily's Hotel, HaGalil 66, Tiberias Check-in: October 24 Check-out: October 28 , four-night stay. Hotel Direct Reservation Link Note: Emily's Hotel has a sister hotel (same owner) right beside it called Aviv Holiday Flat. The quality is not as nice as Emily's Hotel, but the price is much lower. Guests at Aviv Holiday Flat eat in Emily's Hotel dining room. Here is the info if you'd like to book it instead. Aviv Holiday Flat, 2 Hanotar Street, Tiberias Hotel Direct Reservation Link (link coming soon) Prima Park Hotel Jerusalem: 2 Vilnay Street, Jerusalem Check-in: October 28 Check-out: November 6, nine-night stay. Hotel Direct Reservation Link: Promo Code (Holyland12) gives our tour group a 12% discount. Note: Be certain the promo code (Holyland12) appears in the top-right box. If you need to update the search results, the dates will be set back by one day. This can be confusing. You will need to re-enter the correct dates. Also, the dates that appear at the top of the page in the search box will be off by one day. The correct dates that matter are just to the right of the room selection option. Sorry about this! It's an issue with the hotel's website. If one of the above hotels is full, book a nearby hotel of your choice and meet us in the main lobby at 7:15 am, where the rest of the group is staying. We will depart the hotel lobby promptly at 7:30 to board the tour bus. CONTACT INFO: Todd Fink Phone: (541) 603-0881 Email: holylandsite.com@gmail.com Website : HolyLandSite.com Anchor 2 Anchor 4 DAILY ITINERARY FRI, OCTOBER 22 DEPART FOR THE HOLY LAND Please plan to arrive at Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv, by 3:00 pm on October 23, if possible. This will give you plenty of time to get everything done before the required orientation and get-acquainted meeting at 7:00 pm. We'll meet in the main check-in lobby of the Abba Hotel Tel Aviv-Yafo - Formerly Numa, Sheerit Israel 1, Tel Aviv, then head to our meeting place. Note: If you have the time and resources, arriving a day early will let you rest and get better prepared for your experience in Israel. Click to see the "Ben Gurion Airport Arrival Orientation Video." SAT, OCTOBER 23 TEL AVIV After arriving at the Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, Israel, you will proceed through the airport. Please don’t lose the small B2 Stay Permit paper you'll receive at one of the kiosks. Afterward, you can take a taxi to Abba Hotel Tel Aviv-Yafo - Formerly Numa, Sheerit Israel 1, Tel Aviv . Due to customs, luggage pickup, and other procedures, please allow about 3 hours of travel time from the airport to the hotel. The hotel is about 15 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. The orientation and get-acquainted meeting is at 7:00 pm. Please meet in the main hotel lobby. Free time afterward. Lodging at Abba Hotel Tel Aviv-Yafo - Formerly Numa, Sheerit Israel 1, Tel Aviv . One night total. Google Map from Ben Gurion to Abba Hotel Tel Aviv-Yafo SUN, OCTOBER 24 TEL AVIV – SEA OF GALILEE AREA Refreshed from a good night's sleep, we’ll visit Old Jaffa (Joppa), the traditional home of Simon the Tanner, the port from which Jonah sailed, and the port where the logs arrived for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. We’ll then pass through the fast-growing towns and farms of the Plain of Sharon en route to Caesarea Maritima , where the Holy Spirit came to the Gentiles and where major events in the lives of Peter and Paul took place. We’ll drive through the rolling hills of Galilee to Nazareth , where Jesus grew up, and visit the Church of the Annunciation , where the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would be the mother of the Messiah. We'll then drive through Cana , where Christ performed His first public miracle. Then it’s on to Tiberias by the beautiful Sea of Galilee . Free time afterward. Lodging at Emily's or Aviv Flat Hotel, HaGalil 66, Tiberias . Four nights total. Tour Day 1: Google Map Itinerary MON, OCTOBER 25 SEA OF GALILEE AREA This day alone is worth the trip! We're literally walking in the footsteps of Jesus. We'll start the day with a most memorable boat ride on the Sea of Galilee in a replica of an ancient wooden boat used during Jesus' time. We’ll visit the Mount of Beatitudes , home to the beautiful Sermon on the Mount, where Christ preached his longest and most famous sermon. Then we'll head to Capernaum , where Jesus established his home base and often preached in the ancient synagogue. We will continue our drive around the Sea of Galilee to Kursi , where Christ cast out a legion of demons from a demon-possessed man. We'll end this amazing day at Kinar Beach, where the Feeding of the 5,000 most likely took place. At this beach, you'll have the rare treat of swimming in the beautiful waters of the Sea of Galilee . Free time afterward. Tour Day 2: Google Map Itinerary TUES, OCTOBER 26 SEA OF GALILEE AREA We’ll journey north to Caesarea Philippi , where Peter confessed, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God ." We'll then visit Chorazin , one of the towns Jesus cursed because of their unbelief in Him. We’ll visit Tabgha , the place where Jesus restored Peter to fellowship and ministry. We'll wrap up the day with a visit to Magdala , Mary Magdalene's hometown, where Christ cast out seven demons. Free time afterward. Tour Day 3: Google Map Itinerary WED, OCTOBER 27 SEA OF GALILEE AREA We’ll drive along the Jordan Valley to Beth Shean , a stunning Roman Decapolis city and the place where Saul and his son’s bodies were hanged after defeat in battle. We’ll visit either Gideon’s Spring , where Gideon selected his soldiers to battle the Midianites, or Tel Megiddo (Armageddon) , where a key end-time battle will happen. We’ll return to the Sea of Galilee and end the day on Mt. Arbel , believed to be where Christ gave the Great Commission, and take in the Sea of Galilee from its breathtaking view. Free time afterward. Tour Day 4: Google Map Itinerary THURS, OCTOBER 28 JORDAN VALLEY AREA We’ll drive south along the Jordan Valley , following the footsteps Jesus and His disciples would have walked, and arrive at Jesus' baptismal site, where John baptized Him. We'll offer an option for those who would like to be baptized. Then we'll go to Jericho , the oldest known walled city and the first place Joshua and the Israelites conquered upon entering the Promised Land. We’ll then visit Qumran , where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found in 1947. Then, we'll ascend and enter Jerusalem as pilgrims have since ancient times, fulfilling the words of the prophet: I was glad when they said unto me: "Our feet shall stand within thy Gates, O Jerusalem." Free time afterward. Lodging at Prima Park Hotel Jerusalem: 2 Vilnay Street, Jerusalem. Nine nights total. Tour Day 5: Google Map Itinerary FRI, OCTOBER 29 DEAD SEA AREA We’ll start the day by driving to Masada , a massive fortress rock column overlooking the Dead Sea (the lowest spot on earth). We'll take the cable car up Masada to see the remnants of Herod's Palace, where the Zealots made their last stand against Rome in 73 AD. We'll drive by En Gedi , pointing out where David hid from King Saul. We’ll visit ancient Gomorrah , one of the cities God destroyed with fire and brimstone because of their wickedness. Then, what's a visit to Israel without taking a dip, or rather a float, in the Dead Sea ? Free time afterward. Tour Day 6: Google Map Itinerary SAT, OCTOBER 30 BETHLEHEM – JUDAH AREA We'll begin the day with a visit to the magnificent Herodian Fortress . From there, we'll view Bethlehem in the distance, the Shepherds' Fields, the Fields of Boaz and Ruth, and the place where David kept his sheep as a young man . Then, we'll visit Bethlehem, Manger Square, and the Church of the Nativity, where Jesus was born. We’ll continue our travels to the Valley of Elah , where David slew Goliath. Then we'll head to Beth Shemesh , where key events in Samson's life took place and where the Philistines miraculously returned the Ark of the Covenant to the Israelites. Free time afterward. Tour Day 7: Google Map Itinerary SUN, OCTOBER 31 SAMARIA AREA Today, we’ll travel north to the ancient Samaria region of the Bible. We'll visit Shechem , where Abraham first entered the Promised Land and erected an altar. We’ll see and drink from Jacob’s Well , where Jesus talked with the Samaritan woman. We’ll see Joseph's tomb, where Joseph’s bones were buried . We’ll see ancient Shiloh , where the Tabernacle resided for 369 years, and Hannah prayed for a son (Samuel). Then we'll head to ancient Bethel , where Jacob saw a ladder to heaven, the tabernacle once stood, and Jeroboam erected a golden calf. We'll drive by ancient Ai , the second city Joshua and the Israelites destroyed. Free time afterward. Tour Day 8: Google Map Itinerary MON, NOVEMBER 1 NEGEV & ISRAEL MUSEUM Today, we’ll travel to Hebron , where Abraham had many encounters with God, and from where King David reigned over Judah for 7 1/2 years. We'll begin at the Oaks of Mamre, where God made a covenant with Abraham, one of the Bible's most important covenants. We'll then travel a short distance to the Cave of Machpelah , where the patriarchs and their wives are buried. Close to Machpelah are the ruins of ancient Tel Hebron . We'll then return to Jerusalem and visit the Israel Museum , which features an amazing model of Jerusalem from 66 AD. We'll also see the Shrine of the Book and the museum's archaeological wing . Free time afterward. Tour Day 9: Google Map Itinerary TUES, NOVEMBER 2 JERUSALEM We’ll begin the day at the highest point on the Mount of Olives , where we'll v isit the Chapel of Ascension , the place Christ ascended back to heaven, and where His feet will touch down at His glorious second coming. We'll then visit Pater Noster Church , where Christ taught His disciples how to pray. As we descend the Mount of Olives , we’ll stop at a lookout spot offering a magnificent view of Old City Jerusalem , helping us orient ourselves to the city's layout and key places . We'll see the Tombs of the Prophets , where Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi are believed to be buried. We’ll then walk the Triumphal Entry Path to Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations . Along the way, we’ll visit Dominus Flevit Church , where Christ wept over Jerusalem. We’ll then see Mary’s Tomb and then finish the day visiting Gethsemane Cave , where Jesus spent His last hours before going to the cross to be crucified. Free time afterward. Tour Day 10: Google Map Itinerary WED, NOVEMBER 3 JERUSALEM Today, we’ll visit and walk on the Temple Mount , home to Solomon’s Temple and the world's holiest and most contested piece of land. We'll then see the Western Wall , the Jews’ most sacred site in Israel. We’ll visit the Jerusalem Archaeological Park , which has numerous amazing attractions, including the Southern Stairs Area , the main entrance to the Temple Mount—a place where Christ and His disciples would have often been—and the likely location where those who received Christ at Pentecost were baptized. We’ll then walk through part of the Cardo , an original Roman street, and see the amazing remains of the massive Broad Wall built by King Hezekiah. We'll end the day with a walk on the Rooftop Walk over Old City Jerusalem. Free time afterward. Tour Day 11 : Google Map Itinerary THURS, NOVEMBER 4 JERUSALEM Today, we'll be privileged to visit the City of David , where it all began. While in the City of David, we'll see David's Palace , ancient ruins, the remains of Nehemiah's Wall, and King David's Tomb. If you'd like, you can walk through Hezekiah's Water Tunnel , which diverts water from the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam. Others can walk the Canaanite Dry Tunnel . We'll then all meet and see the Pool of Siloam , where Christ healed a blind man, and walk part of the Pilgrimage Road . We’ll then walk part of the Kidron Valley (Valley of Jehoshaphat), where God’s winepress of wrath will be poured out on the gathered nations at Christ's second coming and from where the blood (the height of a horse’s bridle) will flow to the Dead Sea and beyond. We'll then visit the Upper Room , where the Last Supper took place and where an early Christian church/synagogue was built shortly after Christ. Next, we'll see the House of Caiaphas , where Christ was tried before Caiaphas, Peter denied Christ three times, and where Christ was beaten and spent the night in a dungeon . While at the House of Caiaphas, we'll see a Model of Jerusalem dating to around 600 AD. Tour Day 12: Google Map Itinerary FRI, NOVEMBER 5 JERUSALEM We’ll begin the day by walking along the Eastern Wall and seeing the famous Eastern Gate , where we'll see ancient stones dating back to Solomon's time and evidence of the original Temple Mount and its expansions over the years. Then we'll see the Pools of Bethesda , where Jesus healed a sick man after he had waited 38 long years. We’ll walk the traditional path of the Via Dolorosa and see the 14 Stations of the Cross that lead to Golgotha, where the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located today. We'll then visit and explore the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and see why it's the best candidate for Golgotha. From there, we'll walk the biblical Via Dolorosa to Pilate’s Palace and Gabbatha (the stone-paved judgment place where Christ was condemned to crucifixion). Tour Day 13: Google Map Itinerary Farew ell Dinner at 6:00 pm. Free time afterward. SAT, NOVEMBER 6 ISRAEL - HOME Unless you plan to continue your stay in Israel, you’ll transfer to the airport and arrive home with wonderful memories of your visit to the Land of the Bible! You will be responsible for your own transportation from the hotel to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. The hotel in Jerusalem (Prima Park) offers several direct transportation options to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. You can prearrange all of them in advance. The hotel check-out time is 11:00 am. However, they will hold your luggage securely if your flight is later in the day or evening. Travel time to Ben Gurion Airport is about one hour. We recommend arriving at Ben Gurion Airport at least 3 hours before flight departure. This means you should leave the hotel in Jerusalem at least 4 hours in advance. The following are your transportation options: 1. Taxi: C osts around $140 USD for up to 4 people (depending on how much luggage each person has). 2. Shuttle Taxi: Costs around $160 USD for up to 6 people (depending on how much luggage each person has). Please arrange transportation with the hotel's front desk at least a day in advance. All transportation options take approximately an hour to reach the airport and operate daily, including on Shabbat (Saturday). Google Map from Prima Park Hotel to Ben Gurion Airport C li ck t o see the "Ben Gurion Airport Departure Orientation Video." SUN, NOVEMBER 7 ARRIVE HOME Return home with an overflowing heart, knowing you walked in the footsteps of Christ and experienced the places where many events in the Bible took place. Anchor 3

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

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

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.

There are two main sites that have their own Shepherds’ Field, where the angels appeared to the shepherds announcing Christ’s birth. There is the Franciscan Shepherds’ Field and the Greek Orthodox Shepherds' Field. Both sites have substantial archaeological evidence and tradition supporting them. Shepherds' Field Bethlehem Photo Gallery Places of Interest Shepherds’ Field Bethlehem Location 1. There are two main sites that have their own Shepherds’ Field, where the angels appeared to the shepherds announcing Christ’s birth. Less than a half-mile (1 km.) separates them from one another. Franciscan Shepherds’ Field (the most visited as it’s more easily accessed and is set up for tourists). The Greek Orthodox Shepherds’ Field. 2. Both sites have substantial archaeological evidence and tradition supporting them. However, the Greek Orthodox site has more ruins and longer continuous usage. 3. Both places are located about a mile (2 km.) east of Bethlehem in the Beit Sahour village. The Church of the Nativity can be seen from each site. 4. Because the sites are so close to one another, it’s very possible that the angels’ appearance was seen from both places as there could have easily been numerous shepherds in close proximity. There are also various other ruins, churches, and monasteries in the area, which testify to the fact that this event happened here. Historical Background General Evidence 1. At the end of the 4th century, Jerome, who was translating the Hebrew and Greek Bible manuscripts into Latin at the Church of the Nativity, mentioned that the church in Jerusalem celebrated a feast-day at the Church of the Shepherds’ in this area on Christmas Eve. 2. In 384 AD, the pilgrim Egeria was shown the church called "At the Shepherds" in a valley near Bethlehem. She reported, "A big garden is there now, protected by a neat wall all around, and also there is a very splendid cave with an altar." 3. In the 7th century, Bishop Archulph spoke of a burial place of three shepherds in the church at the Shepherds' Field. 4. In the 12th century, Peter the Deacon, a Benedictine monk, quoted an anonymous pilgrim who said, "Not far from there, there is a church called of the Shepherds, where a large garden is fully enclosed by a wall, and there, there is a very luminous grotto which has an altar where an angel, appearing to the shepherds in a vigil, announced the birth of Christ." Franciscan Shepherds’ Field 1. It has a cave with a soot-blackened roof that has been partly enclosed to make a modern chapel. 2. A church built in the 4th century was erected by the cave. 3. The church was destroyed by the time the Crusaders arrived, but pilgrims continued to visit and commemorate this site. 4. It has ruins of a monastery dating from the 4th century to the 7th century. 5. A large complex of caves containing Mikvahs, tunnels, and rooms can be found here. 6. Today, above the cave is a modern church shaped like a tent and decorated with a bronze angel that was built near the ruins of an ancient monastery in 1953. Greek Orthodox Shepherds’ Field 1. The original church was in a cave located on the site. 2. Helena, the mother of Constantine, modified the cave into a church in 325 AD. It is the only original church Helena built that has survived to this day. 3. In the 5th century, a barrel-vaulted roof was built on the cave-church, and a monastery was built on the site later. 4. Above the 5th-century cave-church, a Byzantine chapel was built that was replaced by a larger church, which was destroyed in 614 AD. The Byzantine church and monastery were rebuilt in the 7th century and survived until the 10th century. 5. In 1972, in order to build a new church above the cave-church, excavations verified the remains of three different churches dating to the 5th, 6th, and 7th centuries. 6. The cave-church Helena built served the Orthodox community from the 4th century to 1955. 7. Today, a new large church has been built, the 4th-century cave-church has been restored, and the remains of the upper church and monastery have been preserved. 8. According to tradition dating from the 4th century, this site was associated with the place where Jacob pastured his flock and built Mignal Eder (Tower of the Flocks), referred to in Genesis 35:16. The remains of the base of this tower are still visible today. 9. If Mignal Eder is the site where Jacob erected a tower in Rachel’s memory, this would also be the biblical location of Rachel’s Tomb, and Jacob would have lived in this area for some time. Places of Interest 1. Rachel’s Tomb 2. Church of the Nativity 3. Franciscan Shepherds’ Field 4. Greek Orthodox Shepherds’ Field Mignal Eder Tower 5. Fields of Boaz Shepherds’ Fields in the Bible 1. The Greek Orthodox Church site is associated with Mignal Eder, the place Jacob erected a tower of memorial to Rachel after her death. Genesis 35:16–21: Then they journeyed from Bethel. When they were still some distance from Ephrath [Bethlehem], Rachel went into labor, and she had hard labor. 17 And when her labor was at its hardest, the midwife said to her, "Do not fear, for you have another son." 18 And as her soul was departing (for she was dying), she called his name Ben-oni; but his father called him Benjamin. 19 So Rachel died, and she was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem), 20 and Jacob set up a pillar over her tomb. It is the pillar of Rachel's tomb, which is there to this day. 21 Israel journeyed on and pitched his tent beyond the tower of Eder . 2. Ruth gleaned in the grain fields of Boaz and then married him (Boaz was the Great Grandfather of King David). Ruth 2:1–2: Now Naomi had a relative of her husband's, a worthy man of the clan of Elimelech, whose name was Boaz. 2 And Ruth the Moabite said to Naomi, “Let me go to the field and glean among the ears of grain after him in whose sight I shall find favor.” And she said to her, “Go, my daughter.” 3. Angels appeared to shepherds out in the field, watching their flocks by night. Luke 2:8–14: And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field , keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. 10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” 4. The shepherds went in haste to see Jesus. Luke 2:15–16: When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. 5. The shepherds spread the good news of Jesus’ birth and returned, glorifying and praising God. Luke 2:17–20: And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. Faith Lesson from the Shepherds’ Fields 1. The shepherds were the first to hear the announcement of Jesus’ birth. 2. Shepherds were considered among the lowliest people. To be a shepherd was to be a nobody. It was a boring, lonely, despised job no one wanted. 3. Because Christ came to save all people and show his humility, the angels appeared to the shepherds as a sign that the “Good News” was available for all, from the lowliest shepherds to the noblest kings (the Magi). 4. Do we believe salvation is for everyone? 5. Are we humble like the shepherds were? 6. The shepherds went in haste to see Jesus. Do we show zeal and fervor in our desire to be with Jesus? 7. The shepherds spread the good news about Jesus. Do we share the good news (gospel) with others as well?