Jesus Christ

Before his arrest, Jesus engaged in several significant actions in Jerusalem, including the Triumphal Entry, where he was welcomed by crowds as a king. He also cleansed the Temple, driving out merchants and money changers, which challenged the religious authorities. Additionally, he taught in the Temple and confronted the Pharisees and Sadducees, further escalating tensions with the religious leaders. These actions collectively contributed to the mounting animosity that ultimately led to his arrest.

Elijah is traditionally believed to have lived in the 9th century BCE, which places his life roughly around 850-900 years before the birth of Jesus Christ, who is estimated to have been born around 4-6 BCE. Therefore, Elijah was born approximately 850-900 years before Jesus. However, exact dates can vary based on different historical interpretations and religious traditions.

On the eighth day after Jesus' birth, it was customary for Jewish boys to be circumcised, as per the covenant practices outlined in the Torah. This event is significant in the Christian tradition as it marks the official naming of Jesus, as he was given the name that had been announced by the angel before his conception. The circumcision symbolizes Jesus' obedience to Jewish law and his identification with the Jewish people. This event is commemorated in the Christian liturgical calendar as the Feast of the Circumcision of Christ.

A. Schweitzer viewed the historical Jesus as a prophetic figure whose message was deeply rooted in eschatology, emphasizing the apocalyptic nature of his teachings. R. Bultmann, on the other hand, argued for the necessity of demythologizing the New Testament to uncover the existential truths of Jesus' message, focusing less on the historical details and more on their theological implications. C.H. Dodd emphasized the historical and cultural context of Jesus, arguing that understanding his message requires recognizing the first-century Jewish environment in which he lived, thus bridging the gap between history and theology.

The devout man who waited in the temple to see Christ is Simeon, as described in the Gospel of Luke (Luke 2:25-35). Simeon was a righteous and devout man who had been promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before seeing the Messiah. When Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the temple for His presentation, Simeon recognized Him as the promised Savior and praised God for the fulfillment of that promise. His encounter emphasizes the themes of faith and hope in God's promises.

During Jesus' time, faith healers included various itinerant preachers, healers, and prophets who claimed to possess the ability to cure ailments through divine intervention or spiritual power. Some were associated with Jewish traditions, such as the Pharisees and Essenes, while others were influenced by Hellenistic practices and folk beliefs. Jesus himself was regarded as a prominent healer, performing miracles and exorcisms that attracted many followers. Additionally, individuals like the apostles and later early Christians continued this practice, believing in the healing power of faith in God.

Jesus might use the image of a diverse banquet table, where people from all walks of life—regardless of their background, beliefs, or social status—are welcomed and celebrated. This image emphasizes the importance of breaking down barriers and embracing one another in love and acceptance. By inviting everyone to the table, Jesus would encourage us to reflect on our own attitudes and actions toward inclusivity and community in today's world.

We are living in a world that is under an evil influence, which is confirmed in the Book of 1 John 5: 19 in these words. "The whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one. Revlation 12: 9 describes the wicked one in these words. " The original serpent, the one called Devil and Satan, who is misleading the entire inhabited earth".

The root of mankind's history of badness is found in the first Book of the Bible in Genesis chapter 3.

Having that in mind, the only way to get away from such influence is to choose the one, that comes from the Son of God. 1 John 5: 20 reads. "But we know that the Son of God has come, and he has given us insight so that we may gain the knowledge of the one who is true. And we are in union with the one who is true, by means of his Son Jesus Christ."

Jeremiah 10: 23 reminds that we does not belong to us who is walking even to direct our steps. And Jesus said the same thing in other words in Matthew 4: 4. " Man must live, not on bread alone, but on every word that comes from Jehovah's mouth".

The bad things that even good people are victims of, has nothing to do with God, but more of the results of our progenetors' choice of life, who are no one else than Adam and Eve.

Genesis 2: 17 reads " But as for the tree of the knowledge of good and bad, you must not eat from it, for the day you eat from it you will certainly die. Adam knew that is he did not eat from the tree he would not die, That command would have made no sense if Adam was to grow old and die anyway. Romans 5: 12 reads. "Just as through one man sin entered into the world and death spread to all men".

We were contaminated with the lost of our perfection, like a disease would spread. ( The word "sin" means miss the goal ) The goal that was set by God was a healthy life in a perfect environment. That perfect inhabitat was the Garden of Eden. Read Genesis 1: 26 ; 2: 7, 15.

Those Scriptures show that we were created with God's qualities, "which is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith and so forth. Read Galatians 5: 22,23.

Micah 6: 8 reads. " He has ( God has ) told you, O man, what is good. And what is Jehovah God requiring of you? Only to exercise justice, to cherish loyalty, And to walk in modesty with your God !

So to answer your question: The badness that can also happen to the people who worship God, is the result of the bad choices people do make, and has nothing to do with God.

According to Daniel 2. 44 God is going to solve the badness with His promised kingdom to come, which is His government that will undo all the harm that millenniums of human rule have done. It will provide perfect health, peace and security, meaningful work, and a clean environment.

That is why Jesus told us to pray for His Father's kingdom to come, where His will, will take place as in heaven also on earth, in Matthew 6: 9,10.

Psalm 37: 29 reads. " The righteous will possess the earth, And they will live forever on it". Which has always been God's purpose and has not changed.

There are only two influences. God's way or Satan's way. Mankind has always had that choice, right from the beginning, and the righteous ones have to wait on God, until His Kingdom comes. Until then, we all have the opportunity to show to our heavenly Father that we want to do His will.

But He meant be prepared for difficult times, not violence.

The Pharisees were a prominent religious and political group in ancient Judaism during the Second Temple period. They emphasized strict adherence to the Torah and oral traditions, advocating for a detailed interpretation of Jewish law. Often depicted in the New Testament as opponents of Jesus, they aimed to maintain Jewish identity and practice in the face of Hellenistic influences and Roman occupation. Their teachings and practices laid significant groundwork for Rabbinic Judaism that developed after the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE.

Jesus fasted from food for 40 days and 40 nights in the wilderness, as described in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. During this time, He abstained from eating to prepare for His ministry and to strengthen Himself spiritually. This fast is often seen as a time of testing and communion with God, where Jesus also faced temptation from the devil.

Following Jesus and believing in Jesus are intrinsically linked as they represent two aspects of a committed relationship with Him. Belief in Jesus involves accepting His teachings, recognizing His divinity, and trusting in His salvation, while following Jesus means actively living out that belief through obedience to His commands and example. This relationship is often characterized by a transformation of one’s life, where faith inspires actions that align with Jesus' teachings and mission. Essentially, true belief naturally leads to a desire to follow Him.

The Pentecostal Churches of Christ are often associated with Oneness Pentecostalism, which emphasizes the belief in the singular nature of God, asserting that Jesus is the one true manifestation of God. This doctrine rejects the traditional Christian view of the Trinity, instead teaching that God is a singular spirit who revealed Himself in different forms, primarily as Jesus. Therefore, it can be classified under the "Jesus Only" belief system, highlighting the centrality of Jesus in salvation and spiritual experience.

The four parables that Jesus shared privately with His disciples, as recorded in the Gospels, include the Parable of the Sower, the Parable of the Weeds, the Parable of the Mustard Seed, and the Parable of the Yeast. Each parable illustrates different aspects of the Kingdom of God, emphasizing themes such as the reception of God's word, the growth of the Kingdom, and the transformative power of faith. These teachings were meant to provide deeper spiritual insights to His followers.

We are an effective sign of Christ in the world by embodying His teachings through acts of love, compassion, and service to others. By living out values such as forgiveness, humility, and justice, we reflect Christ's character and inspire others to seek His presence. Our commitment to community and outreach demonstrates the transformative power of faith, drawing people toward hope and healing. Ultimately, our authenticity and integrity in daily life can lead others to recognize and experience the love of Christ.

If we believe that Jesus is our Lord, it fosters a sense of identity rooted in love, grace, and acceptance. This belief encourages us to view ourselves through a lens of worthiness and purpose, leading to greater self-compassion and forgiveness. It can also inspire us to align our values and actions with teachings of humility, service, and love, ultimately transforming how we see our strengths and weaknesses. In this way, our relationship with ourselves becomes a reflection of our faith, promoting inner peace and growth.

Christ gives us grace primarily through his sacrificial death and resurrection, which offers redemption and reconciliation with God. This grace is also imparted through the sacraments, such as baptism and the Eucharist, which are seen as means of receiving divine grace. Additionally, grace is accessed through faith, prayer, and the community of believers, all of which help individuals grow in their relationship with God.

1. The Mount of Olives

Jesus often went there to pray and find peace (Luke 22:39). It’s where He prayed before His arrest, and it seems to have been a special, quiet place for Him to connect with God.

2. Bethany

A small village near Jerusalem, home to Mary, Martha, and Lazarus — some of His closest friends (John 11:1–5). Jesus visited Bethany several times, and it’s often seen as a place of comfort and friendship for Him.

3. The Sea of Galilee

Many of Jesus’ teachings and miracles happened around the Sea of Galilee — walking on water, calming storms, feeding thousands, and calling His first disciples. It was central to His ministry, and He seemed to love spending time there.

4. The Temple in Jerusalem

As a devout Jew, Jesus had deep reverence for the Temple. Even as a child, He called it “My Father’s house” (Luke 2:49). It symbolized His connection to God and His mission.

Summary

If we had to choose, Jesus’ favourite places were likely those where He could pray, teach, and be close to people — like the Mount of Olives, Bethany, and the Sea of Galilee.

During his life in classical civilization, Jesus Christ preached about love, compassion, and forgiveness, emphasizing the importance of a personal relationship with God. He performed miracles, such as healing the sick and feeding the hungry, which attracted a following and challenged social norms of his time. His teachings, often conveyed through parables, laid the foundation for Christianity, which later became a major world religion. Ultimately, his crucifixion and subsequent resurrection are central events that shaped the beliefs of millions.

Yes, Jesus referred to believers as children of God in several passages in the New Testament. For instance, in John 1:12, it states that those who received Him were given the right to become children of God. Additionally, in Matthew 5:9, Jesus teaches that peacemakers are called the children of God. This highlights the intimate relationship between God and those who follow Him.

Jesus revealed his human nature through his experiences, emotions, and interactions with others, demonstrating qualities such as compassion, empathy, and vulnerability. He engaged in relationships, expressed joy and sorrow, and faced temptation, showing that he fully embraced the human experience. By living a life of service and love, he provided a model of humanity that emphasizes selflessness, forgiveness, and the importance of community, encouraging us to follow his example in our own lives.

The key figures in the crucifixion story include Jesus Christ, who was crucified; Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor who sentenced him to death; and the religious leaders, particularly the Pharisees and chief priests, who instigated his arrest and trial. Additionally, Peter, one of Jesus' disciples, denied knowing him, while Mary, his mother, and other followers witnessed the event, highlighting the emotional impact of the crucifixion. The story encapsulates themes of sacrifice, betrayal, and redemption.

Jesus demonstrated God's love through acts of compassion and healing, such as curing the sick and comforting the marginalized, like the lepers and the outcasts. Additionally, He taught about love and forgiveness, emphasizing the importance of loving one’s neighbor and even one’s enemies, as seen in His parables and teachings. These actions exemplified God's unconditional love and mercy, encouraging others to extend that same love to one another.

Masaccio's "Crucifixion" is a fresco painted on the wall of the Brancacci Chapel in Florence. This medium involves applying water-based pigments onto freshly laid wet plaster, allowing the paint to become an integral part of the wall. The use of fresco allowed for vibrant colors and a sense of depth, contributing to the work's dramatic expression and realism.

"Wonderful, Merciful Savior" was written by Dawn Rodgers and Eric Wyse. The song has become popular in Christian worship settings and is often performed in churches. It expresses themes of gratitude and reverence for God's mercy and love.