What do the Gospels actually say about Jesus?

The Gospel Records of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John contain eyewitness testimony of Jesus’ life and teachings.

These passages have been taken from the four gospels that show clearly the words and life of Jesus. Each passage from the gospels is identified by chapter and verse so it can be readily found in the Bible. Because the passages are arranged by themes, they do not necessarily appear in chronological order.

John the Baptist and His Claims About Jesus

Mk.1:1-8

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. It is written in the prophets, “Behold, I send my messenger ahead of you, who shall prepare your way before you, the voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.’” John baptized in the wilderness and preached the baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.

The people of Jerusalem and all the land of Judea went out to him and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. John was clothed with camel’s hair with a leather belt and ate locusts and wild honey. He preached, “After me comes one mightier than I, the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

Jn.1:19-34

This is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” And he confessed and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” And he said, “I am not.” “Are you the prophet?” He answered, “No.” Then they said to him, “Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” He said, “I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord, as spoken by the prophet Isaiah.’” And those who were sent were part of the Pharisees.

They asked him, “Why do you baptize then, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?” John answered them, “I baptize with water, but there stands one among you, one whom you do not know. He is the one coming after me who is preferred before me and whose sandal’s thong I am not worthy to untie.” These things were done in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing.

The next day John saw Jesus coming to him and said, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. This is he, whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who is above me, for he existed before me.’ I did not know him, but I came baptizing with water that that he might be revealed to Israel.” John bore witness, saying, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. And I did not know him, but he that sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you shall see the Spirit descending and remaining, that one is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’” I have seen and witnessed that this one is the Son of God.”

Jesus’ Baptism and a Sign From God

Matt.3:13-17

Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. But John prohibited him, saying, “I have need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” Jesus answered, “Allow it now, for it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed him. When Jesus was baptized, he went up immediately out of the water. The heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, settling upon him. A voice came from heaven, saying, “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.”

Jesus’ Miracles and the People He Touched

Matt.4:23-24

Jesus went throughout Galilee teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every kind of sickness and disease among the people. His fame spread throughout Syria. They brought to him sick people that were taken with various diseases and pains, those who were possessed with demons, those who were having seizures, and those that were paralyzed. He healed them.

Jesus cast out demons at his command.

Mk.1:21-28

And they [Jesus and his disciples] went into Capernaum. Immediately on the Sabbath day he entered into the synagogue and taught. And they were astonished at his doctrine, for he taught them as one that had authority and not as the scribes.

And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit and he cried out, saying, “Let us alone. What have we to do with you, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.” And Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be quiet and come out of him.” When the unclean spirit had thrown him, it cried with a loud voice and came out of him. They were all amazed, and debated among themselves, saying, “What thing is this? What new doctrine is this? For with authority he commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” Immediately his fame spread abroad throughout the entire region round about Galilee.

Jesus healed people wherever he went.

Mk.1:29-39

And when they [Jesus and his disciples] came out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. But Simon’s mother-in-law lay sick of a fever, and they told him about her. He came and took her by the hand and lifted her up and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered to them.

And in the evening, they brought to him all that were diseased and those that were possessed with demons. And the entire city was gathered together at the door. And he healed many that were sick of various diseases and cast out many demons, not allowing the demons to speak, because they knew him.

And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out and departed into a solitary place, and prayed there. And Simon and those with him hunted for him. When they had found him, they said to him, “All are seeking for you. And he said to them, “Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also. For this is why I came.” And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee and cast out devils.

Jesus even healed people with leprosy.

Mk.1:40-45

A leper came to him, knelt down and earnestly asked him, “If you are willing, you can make me clean.” And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and said to him, “I am willing; be clean.” As soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from him and he was cleansed. He sternly warned him and sent him away, saying, “See that you say nothing to anyone. Go your way. Show yourself to the priest and offer for your cleansing those things, which Moses commanded, for a testimony to them.” But he went out and began to make it known everywhere so much so that Jesus could no longer openly enter the city. He was outside in uninhabited areas. They came to him from everywhere.

Jesus healed a paralyzed man and forgave his sins.

Mk.2:1-12

After some time he [Jesus] entered Capernaum and it was heard that he was home. So many people gathered together that there was no room to receive them, not even at the door. He preached the word to them. Some came to him bringing one who was paralyzed, carried by four men. When they could not come near to him because of the crowd, they uncovered the roof where he was. When they had broken it up, they let down the bed on which the paralyzed man lay. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”

But there were some scribes sitting there who reasoned in their hearts, “’Why does this man speak such blasphemy? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” When Jesus perceived what they were reasoning within themselves, he said to them, “Why do you reason these things in your hearts? Which is easier to say to the paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Arise, and take up your bed, and walk?’ But that you may know that the Son of man has power on earth to forgive sins, I say to you, ‘Arise, take up your bed, and go your way to your house.’” Immediately he arose, took up his bed, and went out before them all. They were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this.”

Jesus fed five thousand people at one time.

Jn.6:1-15

After these things Jesus went across the Sea of Galilee, which is the sea of Tiberias. A great multitude of people followed him because they saw his miracles, which he did on those who were diseased. Jesus went up onto a mountain, and there he sat with his disciples. The Passover, a feast of the Jews, was near. When Jesus lifted up his eyes, and saw a great crowd of people who had come to him, he said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread that these may eat?”

This he said to test him, for he himself knew what he would do. Philip answered him, “Two hundred denarii of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may take a little.” One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him, “There is a boy here, who has five barley loaves and two small fish. But what are these among so many?”

Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in the area so the people sat down. There was about five thousand. Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to the disciples. The disciples distributed them to those who were sitting down, and they did the same with the fish as much as they wanted. When they were filled, he said to his disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing may be lost.”

Therefore, they gathered them together and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above what had been eaten. When the people saw the miracle that Jesus did, they said, “This is truly the prophet who is to come into the world.” When Jesus perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain by himself alone.

Jesus healed a synagogue ruler’s daughter.

Mk.5:22-24, 35-43

One of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name came [to Jesus]. When he saw him, he fell at his feet and urged him, saying, “My little daughter lies at the point of death. Please, come and lay your hands on her so that she might be healed and she will live. Jesus went with him. Many people followed him and pressed around him.

While he was speaking certain men came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house and said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Master any further?” As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not be afraid, only believe.” He allowed no one to follow him, except Peter, James, and John the brother of James. He came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue and saw the commotion and those who were weeping and crying aloud.

When he came, he said to them, “Why do you make such an uproar and weep? The child is not dead, but sleeps.” They laughed at him scornfully. But when he had put them all out, he took the father and the mother of the child, and those that were with him, and entered in where the child was lying. He took the child by the hand, and said to her, “Child, I say to you, arise.” And immediately the child arose, and walked, for she was twelve years old. They were astonished with a great amazement. He gave them strict orders that no one should know about it; and commanded that something should be given her to eat.

Jesus healed a woman with a blood hemorrhage.

Mk.5:25-34

There was a certain woman who had a hemorrhage for twelve years. She had suffered many things by many physicians and had spent all that she had and was not better, but worse. When she had heard of Jesus, she came in the pressing crowd behind him and touched his garment. For she said, “If I might even touch his clothes, I shall be healed.” Immediately the flow of her blood was dried up and she felt in her body that she was healed of that illness.

Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that power had gone out of him, turned around in the crowd and said, “Who touched my clothes?” And his disciples said to him, “You see the crowd pressing in on you, and you say, ‘Who touched me?’” He looked around to see the one who had done this thing. The woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him the whole truth. He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you; go in peace, and be whole from your illness.”

Jesus walked on the water during the storm.

Matt.14:22-33

And immediately Jesus made his disciples get into a ship, and go before him to the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. When he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain by himself to pray. When the evening came, he was there alone. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea [of Galilee], tossed with waves, for the wind was contrary. In the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, “It is a ghost!” They cried out for fear.

Immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer; it is I. Do not be afraid.” Peter answered him and said, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” And he said, “Come.” When Peter came down out of the ship, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw the boisterous wind, he was afraid. Beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me.” And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand and caught him. He [Jesus] said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” When they came into the ship, the wind ceased. Then those who were in the ship worshiped him, saying, “Truly, you are the Son of God.”

Jesus healed a blind man named Bartimaeus.

Mk.10:46-52

And they [Jesus and his disciples] came to Jericho. As he went out of Jericho with his disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the side of the highway begging. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me.” Many rebuked him to be quiet. But he cried out even more, “Son of David, have mercy on me.”

Jesus stood still and commanded, “Call him.” They called the blind man, saying to him, “Be of good courage, rise; he calls you.” Throwing aside his garment, he rose, and came to Jesus. Jesus answered and said to him, “What do you wish me to do for you?” The blind man said to him, “Lord, I wish to receive my sight.” Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus on the road.

Jesus raised his friend from the dead.

Jn.11:17-45

Jesus had developed a friendship with Lazarus, and his two sisters, Martha, and Mary. When Lazarus became sick and died, Jesus raised him from the dead. This incredible miracle became one of the most widely circulated of his ministry. Many came to trust him as Savior as a result.

Then when Jesus came, he found that he [Lazarus] had been in the tomb four days already. Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, about two miles away. Many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother. Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him, but Mary still sat in the house. Then Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know, that even now, whatever you will ask of God, God will give it to you.”

Jesus said to her, “Your brother shall rise again.” Martha said to him, “I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He, who believes in me, even if he should die, shall live. Whoever lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” She said to him, “Yes, Lord. I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”

When she had said this she went her way and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, “The Master has come, and is calling for you.” As soon as she heard that, she rose quickly and came to him. Now Jesus had not yet come into the town, but was in the place where Martha met him. There were Jews in the house, comforting her. When they saw Mary rise up hastily and go out, they followed her, saying, “She is going to the grave to weep there.” When Mary came to the place where Jesus was and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying to him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.”

When Jesus saw her weeping and the Jews who came with her also weeping, he was deeply emotional and was troubled. He said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to him, “Lord, come and see.” Jesus wept. Then the Jews said, “See how he loved him!” Some of them said, “Could not this man who opened the eyes of the blind have caused this man not to have died?” Jesus, again deeply emotional, came to the grave. It was a cave and a stone was lying against it. Jesus said, “Take away the stone.”

Martha, the sister of him who was dead, said to him, “Lord, by this time he will have a stench for he has been dead four days.” Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe, you would see the glory of God?” Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead man was laid.

Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you hear me always. Because of the people who are standing by I said this, that they may believe that you have sent me.” When he had spoken, he cried out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come forth.” He who was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with grave clothes. His face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him and let him go.” Then many of the Jews who came to Mary and had seen the things, which Jesus did, believed in him.

Jesus was transformed in front of his disciples.

Lu.9:28-36

On one occasion, Jesus took three of his disciples with him to pray to his Father and during that time he was physically transformed before them showing his true identity as the Son of God.

And it came to pass about eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James and went up onto a mountain to pray. And as he prayed, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became white and radiant. And, behold, two men were talking with him, who were Moses and Elijah who appeared in glory, and spoke of his death which he should accomplish at Jerusalem.

But Peter and those that were with him were very sleepy and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good for us to be here. Let us make three tabernacles, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah. He did not know what he was saying. While he spoke, there came a cloud, and overshadowed them and they were afraid as they entered into the cloud.

There came a voice out of the cloud, saying, “This is my beloved Son; hear him.” When the voice was silent, Jesus was found alone. And they kept it close, and told no one in those days any of those things, which they had seen.

Jesus’ Character, What He Was Like

Jesus was a man of compassion.

Lu.7:11-17

And it came to pass that he went into a city called Nain. Many of his disciples went with him and many people. Now when he came near to the gate of the city, there was a dead man being carried out, the only son of his mother. She was a widow and many people of the city were with her. When the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said to her, “Do not cry.” He came and touched the coffin. Those that were carrying him stood still.

He said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.” The one who was dead sat up and began to speak. He gave him to his mother. There came a fear on all and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has risen up among us and God has visited his people.” This news about him [Jesus] spread throughout all Judea and the entire region round it.

Jesus was a man who loved others.

Jn.13:34-35

[Jesus said] “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this shall all men know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Jn.15:9-13

[Jesus said,] “As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you. Continue in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and remain in his love. These things I have spoken to you so that my joy might be in you and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, that you love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends, if you do whatever I command you.

Jn.17: 24-26 [Jesus said,]

“Father, I wish that they [the disciples] also, whom you have given me, be with me where I am [when I am in heaven] that they may behold my glory, which you have given me: for you loved me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world has not known you, but I have known you, and these [disciples] have known that you have sent me. And I have declared to them your name, and will declare it so that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.”

Jesus was a man of joy.

Jn.15:9-11

[Jesus said] “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you: continue in my love. If you keep my commandments, you shall remain in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. These things have I spoken to you so that my joy might be in you and that your joy might be full.”

Lu.10:1-3

After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also and sent them two by two before him into every city and place where he himself would go. He said to them, “The harvest is indeed great, but the laborers are few. Pray therefore to the Lord of the harvest that he would send forth laborers into his harvest. Go on your way. Behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves.”

Lu.10:17, 21-22

The seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons submit to us through your name.” (v.17) In that hour Jesus rejoiced in his spirit and said, “I thank you, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hid these things from the wise and prudent and have revealed them to babes. Yes, Father for so it seemed good in your sight. My Father has delivered all things to me. No one knows who the Son is, but the Father; and no one knows who the Father is, but the Son, and the one [every Christian] to whom the Son will reveal him. (v. 21-22)

Jesus was a man of humility.

Mk.10:35-45

Jesus’ disciples knew that following Jesus while he was on earth would give them the opportunity to one day reign with him in his kingdom. They thought this meant that they would be like earthly kings with honor, prestige, and service by others. Jesus taught them that his kingdom was very different. It was one of humble service to others.

James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to him, saying, “Master, we want you to do for us whatever we ask.” He said to them, “What do you want me to do for you?” They said to him, “Grant to us that we may sit, one on your right hand, and the other on your left hand, in your glory.” But Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the cup that I drink and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” They said to him, “We can.” Jesus said to them, “You will indeed drink the cup that I drink and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with. But to sit on my right hand and on my left hand is not mine to give; but it will be given to them for whom it has been prepared.”

When the ten heard it, they began to be very displeased with James and John. Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you. Whoever will be great among you shall be your servant. Whoever among you wants to be the chief shall be the servant of all. For even the Son of man came not to be served, but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many.”

Jn.13:1-17

Now before the feast of the Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. When the evening meal ended, the devil put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him. Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands and that he had come from God and was going to God, rose from dinner and laid aside his garments. He took a towel and wrapped himself around the waist. After that he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around his waist.

Then he came to Simon Peter. Peter said to him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” Jesus answered, “What I do you do not now realize, but you shall understand hereafter.” Peter said to him, “You will never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with me.” Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.” Jesus said to him, "He that has bathed needs only to wash his feet and is clean everywhere. You are clean, but not all of you.” For he knew who would betray him; therefore he said, “You are not all clean.”

After he had washed their feet and had taken up his garments and sat down again, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord and you speak well, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet; you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example that you should do as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master. Neither is he that is sent greater than the one that sent him. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.”

Jesus was a man of passion.

Jn.2:13-22

And the Jewish Passover was at hand. Jesus went up to Jerusalem and found the sellers of oxen, sheep, and doves and the moneychangers sitting in the temple. When he had made a whip of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen. And he poured out the money of the moneychangers and overturned the tables. He said to those who sold the doves, “Take these things from here. Do not make my Father’s house a house of merchandise.”

And his disciples remembered that it was written, “The zeal of your house has consumed me.” Then the Jews answered and said to him, “What sign [of authority from God] do you show us, seeing that you do these things?” Jesus answered and said to them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” Then the Jews said, “This temple was built in forty six years, will you raise it up in three days?” But he spoke of the temple of his body.

When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this to them. And they believed the Scripture and the word, which Jesus had said.

Jesus’ Teachings About The Right Kind of Life

Jesus’ taught about the importance of humility.

Mk.10:42-45

But Jesus called them [his disciples] to him and said to them, “You know that those who are recognized as rulers over the nations lord it over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be like that among you, but whoever wants to be great among you, shall be your servant; and whoever wants to be chief among you shall be the servant of all. For even the Son of man did not come to serve, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Lu.18:9-14

And he spoke this parable to certain people who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others, “Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee [religious leader], and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus in himself, ’God, I thank you, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.’ And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God be merciful to me a sinner.’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for every one who exalts himself shall be humbled, and he who humbles himself shall be exalted.”

Jesus’ taught about the need to forgive others.

Matt.18:22-35

How people treated each other was always on Jesus’ mind. When his disciples asked him about forgiveness and the need to continually forgive others when they confess and turn from their sin, Jesus was very pointed about his remarks. Jesus taught that there was no limit on how much forgiveness that his followers should give to others. Since God had placed no limit on how much he had forgiven them, they should do the same to others. He demonstrates this truth in a story about a man who had been forgiven of a million dollar debt by his master, but would not forgive a debt of a few dollars from a fellow slave.

Then Peter came to him [Jesus], and said, ‘Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Until seven times?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I do not say to you, until seven times, but, until seventy times seven. Therefore the kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who would settle account with his servants. And when he had begun to settle them, one was brought to him, who owed him ten thousand talents [equivalent to a million dollars today]. But as he had nothing to repay, his master commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant therefore fell down and bowed low, saying, ‘Master, have patience with me, and I will pay you all.’ Then the master of that servant was moved with compassion, released him, and forgave him of the debt.

But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, who owed him a hundred denarii [equivalent to a few dollars today], and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, ‘Pay me what you owe. And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and urged him, saying, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you all.’ And he would not, but went and cast him into prison, until he should pay the debt.

So when his fellow servants saw what was done, they were very grieved and came and told their master all that was done. Then his master, after that, called him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant, I forgave you all that debt because you desired me to. Shouldn’t you have also had compassion on your fellow servant, even as I had pity on you?’ And his master was angry and delivered him to the torturers until he should pay all that was due to him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also to you, if you do not forgive your brother from your hearts.”

Mk.11:25

And when you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father who is in heaven forgive your trespasses.

Jesus’ taught that loving others was God’s greatest commandment.

Matt.22:37-40

Jesus said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it; you shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”

Lu.6:27-36

But I say to you who hear me, love your enemies, do good to them who hate you. Bless those who curse you and pray for those who insult you. And to him who strikes you on one cheek offer the other also and to him who takes away your cloak do not forbid him to take your coat also. Give to every man that asks of you; and from him that takes away your goods do not ask for them again.

As you would want men to do to you, do also likewise to them. For if you love those who love you, what thanks have you? For sinners also love those who love them. And if you do good to them who do good to you, what thanks should you have? For even sinners also do the same.

And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive something, what thanks do you have? For sinners also lend to sinners, in order to receive the same amount back. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return and your reward shall be great, and you shall be the children of the Highest. For he is kind to the ungrateful and to the evil. Be merciful, therefore, as your Father also is merciful.”

Jn.13:34-35

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love one to another.

Jn.15:9-13

As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you; continue in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken to you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, that you love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love has no man than this that a man lay down his life for his friends.

Jesus’ taught that denying one’s self was part of following him.

Matt.16:24-27

Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘If any one wants to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever will save his life shall lose it and whoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.”

Lu.6:38

Give, and it shall be given to you; a good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give to you. For with the same measure that you measure out, it shall be measured to you.

Jesus’ taught that spiritual wealth was more valuable than financial wealth.

Matt.6:19-21

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Matt.6:24

No man can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one, and love the other, or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon [money].

Lu.12:15-21

And he said to them, “Take heed, and beware of greed; for a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things which he possesses.” And he spoke a parable to them, saying, “The ground of a certain rich man brought forth a plentiful harvest. And he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, because I have no room where I can store my fruits?’ And he said, ‘This I will do; I will pull down my barns, and build greater ones where I will store all my fruits and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, and be merry.’ But God said to him, ‘You foolish man, this night your soul shall be required of you; then to whom will belong those things which you have provided?’ So is he that lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.’”

Lu.18:28-30

Then Peter said, “We have left everything and followed you.” And he [Jesus] said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, who shall not receive many times as much in this present time, and receive everlasting life in the age to come.”

Jesus’ taught that his followers should not worry.

Matt.6:25-30

Therefore I say to you, “Do not be anxious for your life, what you shall eat, or what you shall drink; neither for your body, what you shall put on. Is not life more than food, and the body than clothing? Behold the birds of the air. They do not sow, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much better than they? Which of you by being anxious can add one cubit to his stature?

And why are you anxious for clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they do not labor, nor do they spin, and yet I say to you, that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If God so clothes the grass of the field, which exists today and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat? Or, what shall we drink? Or, with what shall we be clothed?

For after all these things the Gentiles seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you have need of all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious for tomorrow, for tomorrow shall be anxious for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

Jesus’ taught his disciples how to pray.

Lu.11:1-4

And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he stopped, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” And he said to them, “When you pray, say, ‘Our Father who is in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done, as in heaven, so on earth. Give us day by day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”

Lu.11:5-8

And he said to them, “Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go to him at midnight, and say to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves of bread; For a friend of mine on a journey has come to me, and I have nothing to set before him?’ And he shall answer and say from within, ‘Do not trouble me. The door is now shut and my children and I are in bed. I cannot rise and give it to you.’ I say to you, although he will not rise and give it to him because he is his friend, yet because of his boldness he will rise and give him as much as he needs.”

Matt.7:7-11

[Jesus said,] “Ask, and it shall be given to you. Seek, and you shall find. Knock, and it shall be opened to you. For every one that asks receives, and he that seeks finds, and to him that knocks it shall be opened. Or what man is there among you, whom if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your Father who is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?”

Jesus’ taught on the sinfulness of the human heart.

Mk.7:14-23

And when he had called all the people, he said to them, “Listen to me every one and understand. There is nothing from outside a man that entering into him can defile him, but the things, which come out of him, those are what defile the man. If any one has ears to hear, let him hear.” And when he entered into the house away from the crowd, his disciples asked him about the parable.

And he said to them, “Are you also so undiscerning? Do you not understand that whatever thing from without enters into the man, it cannot defile him because it does not enter into his heart, but into the belly, and goes out into the drain, purging all foods?” And he said, “That which comes out of the man, that defiles the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, and foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.”

Jn.8:12

Then Jesus spoke again to them, saying, “I am the light of the world; he who follows me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Jn.7:37-39

In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, “If any man thirst, let him come to me, and drink. He who believes on me, as the Scripture has said, out from within him shall flow rivers of living water. (But this he spoke of the Spirit, which they who believe on him should receive)…”

Jesus’ taught on life after death.

Jn.5:22-29

For the Father judges no man, but has committed all judgment to the Son, that all should honor the Son, even as they honor the Father. He does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who has sent him. Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears my word, and believes on him who sent me, has everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death to life.

Truly, truly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God and they who hear shall live. For as the Father has life in himself so he has given to the Son to have life in himself and has given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man.

Do not marvel at this, for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good, to the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, to the resurrection of damnation.

Jn.14:1-6

[Jesus said,] Let not your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many dwelling places. If it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you to myself; that where I am, there you may be also.

And you know where I am going and you know the way.” Thomas says to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going; and how can we know the way?” Jesus says to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me.”

Matt.13:47-50

[Jesus said,] Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was cast into the sea, and gathered every kind of fish. When it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away. So shall it be at the end of the world; the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, and shall cast them into the furnace of fire; there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. He who believes on him is not condemned, but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

Jesus’ Closest Disciples and Friends

Jesus gathers his first disciples.

Jn.1:35-51

Again the next day after John stood with two of his disciples looking upon Jesus as he walked, he said, “Behold the Lamb of God! And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. Then Jesus turned and saw them following, and said to them, “What do you seek?” They said to him, “Rabbi, (which is translated “Master”) where do you live?” He said to them, “Come and see.”

They came and saw where he dwelt, and remained with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. One of the two who heard John speak and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first finds his own brother Simon and says to him, “We have found the Messiah (which is translated “Christ”).” And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, “You are Simon the son of Jonah. You shall be called Cephas (which is translated “Peter”).

The next day Jesus went into Galilee, and finds Philip, and says to him, “Follow me.” Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip finds Nathanael and says to him, “We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” And Nathanael said to him, “Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” Jesus saw Nathanael coming and said to him, “Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!”

Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” Jesus said to him, “Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You shall see greater things than these”. And he said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.”

Jesus performs his first miracle in front of his disciples.

Jn.2:1-11

On the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee. The mother of Jesus was there. Jesus and his disciples were invited to the wedding. When they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” Jesus said to her, Woman, what do I have to do with you? My hour has not yet come.” His mother said to the servants, “Whatever he says to you, do it.”

And there were six water pots of stone set there, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing twenty or thirty gallons apiece. Jesus said to them, “Fill the water pots with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. And he said to them, “Draw some out now and carry it to the head of the feast.” And they carried it.

When the head of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and did not know where it came from, (but the servants who drew the water knew) the head of the feast called the bridegroom, and said to him, “Every man sets out the good wine at the beginning, and when men have drunk well, then that which is worse, but you have kept the good wine until now.” This beginning of miracles Jesus did in Cana of Galilee and showed his glory and his disciples believed in him.

Jesus calls his disciples to come and minister with him.

Lu.5:1-11

And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret. And he saw two ships standing by the lake, but the fishermen were gone from them and were washing their nets. He entered into one of the ships, which was Simon’s, and asked him if he would put out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship.

Now when he had left his speaking, he said to Simon, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch. And Simon answered him, “Master, we have toiled all night and have caught nothing. Nevertheless at your word I will let down the net.” And when they had this done, they enclosed a great number of fish and their net broke. They called to their partners who were in the other ship to come and help them. And they came and filled both of the ships so that they began to sink.

When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” For he and all those with him were astonished at the catch of the fish, which they had taken. And so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not fear. From now on you shall catch men.” And when they had brought their ships to land, they left everything and followed him.

Matt.9:9-13 As Jesus went from there, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the tax booth. He said to him, “Follow me.” And he arose, and followed him. And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at dinner in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw it, they said to his disciples, “Why does your Master eat with tax collectors and sinners?” But when Jesus heard that, he said to them, “Those who are healthy do not need a physician, but they that are sick do. But go and learn what this means, ‘I will have mercy, and not sacrifice. For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.’”

Jesus ministered not only with men, but with women as well.

Lu.8:1-3

And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and sharing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, and certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and sicknesses, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven demons, and Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, who ministered to him from their financial resources.

Jesus appointed twelve disciples to be apostles.

Lu.6:12-16

And it came to pass in those days, that he went out to a mountain to pray and continued all night in prayer to God. And when it was day, he called to him his disciples and from them he chose twelve, whom he also named apostles. They are Simon (whom he also named Peter), and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus and Simon called the zealot, and Judas the brother of James and Judas Iscariot, who also was the traitor.

Matt.10:1

And when he had called his twelve disciples to himself, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease

Matt.10:5-20

These twelve Jesus sent forth and commanded them, saying, “Do not go and enter into the way of the Gentiles and into any city of the Samaritans. But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, and cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, nor a wallet for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor a staff, for the workman is worthy of his food.

And into whatever city or town you enter, enquire who in it is worthy and bide there until you go. And when you come into a house, give it a greeting. And if the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it, but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. And whoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when you depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet. Truly, I say to you, it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment, than for that city.

Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves. Be therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues, and you shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what you shall speak, for it shall be given you in that same hour what you shall speak. For it is not you that speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.

Jesus promised the apostles would receive the Holy Spirit.

Jn.14:25-26

These things I have spoken to you, while I am present with you. But the Comforter, who is the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all things, which I spoke to you.

Jn.16:13-15

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. For he shall not speak from himself, but whatever he hears [truth from God the Father], he will speak, and he will show you things to come. He shall glorify me, for he shall receive of mine [Christ’s truth], and shall show it to you. All things that the Father has are mine, therefore I said that he shall take of mine, and shall show it to you.

Jesus’ Claims About His True Identity

Jesus claimed to be the messiah, the Son of God.

Matt.16:15-17

He [Jesus] said to them, “Who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven”.

Mk.14:60-62

The high priest stood up in the midst [of the trial], and asked Jesus, “Do you give no answer concerning what these men testify against you?” But he was silent and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One [God]?” Jesus said, “I am; and you shall see the Son of Man sitting on the right hand of power and coming in the clouds of heaven.”

Jesus claimed that he was one with God the Father.

Jn.10:22-33

It was the feast of the dedication and it was winter at Jerusalem. Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon’s porch. Then the Jews came around him and said to him, “How long do you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you did not believe. The works [miracles] that I do in my Father’s name bear witness of me. But you do not believe because you are not part of my sheep [believers in Jesus].

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give to them eternal life and they shall never perish. Nor shall anyone snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and my Father are one.”

Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him. Jesus answered them, “Many good works have I showed you from my Father; for which of those works do you stone me?” The Jews answered him, “We do not stone you for a good work, but for blasphemy because you, being a man, declare yourself to be God.”

Jesus allowed his disciples to believe that he was God.

Jn.20:24-29

But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came [after he resurrected]. The other disciples therefore said to him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I shall see in his hands the mark of the nails, and put my finger into the mark of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.”

After eight days his disciples were inside and Thomas was with them and the doors were shut. Then Jesus came and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be to you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Reach here your finger and behold my hands. Reach here your hand and thrust it into my side. Be not unbelieving, but believing.” Thomas answered, “My Lord and my God.” Jesus said to him, “Thomas, because you have seen me, have you believed? Blessed are the ones that have not seen, and yet have believed.”

Jesus also claimed to be a man, a human being.

Lu.19:2-10

There was a rich man named Zacchaeus who was a chief tax collector. He sought to see who Jesus was and could not for the pressing crowd because he was short. He ran to the front and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was to pass that way. When Jesus came to the place, he looked up and saw him. He said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for today I must stay at your house.” He hurried and came down and welcomed him joyfully.

When they saw it, they all murmured, saying, “He has gone to be a guest of a man who is a sinner.” Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord; “Lord, half of my goods I give to the poor. If I have taken anything from any man by false accusation, I will give him back four times the amount.” Jesus said to him, “This day salvation has come to this house because he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man [Jesus] has come to seek and to save those who are lost.

Jesus' earthly life showed that he was a real human being.

Lu.2:1-7

And it came to pass in those days; a decree from Caesar Augustus went out that a census should be taken of the entire [Roman] world. This census was first made when Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to be enrolled in the census, every one into his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee out of the city of Nazareth into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem because he was of the house and lineage of David. He went to be enrolled with

Mary who was engaged to him and was pregnant. While they were there, the days toward her delivery were completed. She brought forth her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn.

Lu.2:40, 52

And the child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom. The grace of God was upon him. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.

Like any human being, Jesus became hungry and tired at times.

Jn.4:5-8

Then he [Jesus] came to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Now Jacob’s well was there. Jesus, being wearied from his journey, sat on the well. It was about the sixth hour. A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give me a drink” (for his disciples had gone away to the city to buy food).

The “Passion” of Jesus, His Final Days

Jesus is betrayed by Judas Iscariot.

Matt.26:14-16

Then one of the twelve, Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said to them, “What will you give me if I deliver him to you?” They weighed out for him thirty pieces of silver. From that time on he sought an opportunity to betray him.

Jesus agonizes over his coming death on the cross.

Matt.26:36-46

Then Jesus came with the disciples to a place called Gethsemane and said to them, “Sit here while I go and pray over there.” He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee [James and John] with him and began to grieve and be distressed. Then he said to them, “My soul is filled with deep sorrow to the point of death. Wait here and watch with me.” He went a little further and fell on his face and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless not as I will, but as you will.”

And he came to the disciples and found them asleep and said to Peter, “So, you could not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray that you might not enter into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” He went away again a second time and prayed, “My Father, if this cup may not pass away from me unless I drink it, your will be done.” And he came and found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy.

He left them and went away again and prayed a third time saying the same words. Then he came to his disciples and said to them, “Sleep on now and take your rest. Behold, the hour is at hand and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise; let us go. Behold, the one who betrays me is at hand.”

Jesus is arrested in the garden of Gethsemane.

Matt.26:47-56

And while he was still speaking, Judas, one of the twelve, came with a great multitude with swords and clubs from the chief priests and elders of the people. Now the one who betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, “Whomever I will greet with a kiss. Seize him.” He came to Jesus and said, “Greetings, Master” and greeted him with a kiss. Jesus said to him, “Friend, for what reason have you come?” Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took him. One of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword. He struck a servant of the high priest’s and cut off his ear.

Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place, for all those who take up the sword shall perish with the sword. Do you think that I cannot now pray to my Father and he will give me more than twelve legions of angels? But how then shall the Scriptures be fulfilled that it must be this way?” In that same hour Jesus said to the multitudes, “Have you come out against me with swords and clubs to take me as if I were a thief? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple and you did not lay hold on me. All this has happened so that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples left him and fled.

Jesus was brought to trial before the high priest.

Matt.26:57-68

And those that had laid hold on Jesus [when they arrested him] led him away to Caiaphas, the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. Peter followed him from afar to the high priest’s palace, and went in and sat with the servants to see the final outcome. Now the chief priests, elders, and all the council sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death. They found none. Even though many false witnesses came, they still found none. At the end two false witnesses came who said, “This fellow said, ‘I am able to destroy the temple of God and rebuild it in three days.’” The high priest arose and said to him, “Do you answer nothing? What are these witnesses saying against you?” But Jesus held his peace.

The high priest answered, “I adjure you by the living God that you tell us whether you are the Christ, the Son of God.” Jesus said to him, “You have said it truly; nevertheless, I say to you, from now on you shall see the Son of Man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.” Then the high priest tore his clothes, saying, “He has spoken blasphemy. What further need do we have of witnesses? Now you have heard his blasphemy. What do you think?” They answered, “He is guilty of death.” Then they spit in his face and beat him. Others struck him with the palms of their hands, saying, “Prophesy to us, you Christ. Who is the one who struck you?”

Matt.27:1-2

When morning had come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death. When they had bound him, they led him away and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor.

Jesus was brought to trial before the Roman governor.

Matt.27:11-26a

Jesus stood before the governor and the governor asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus said to him, “It is as you say.” When he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing. Then Pilate said to him, “Do you not hear how many things they testify against you?” He did not answer him one word so that the governor was greatly amazed. Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to release to the people a prisoner whom they wished. They had then a notorious prisoner called Barabbas. Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said to them, “Whom do you wish that I release to you? Barabbas or Jesus who is called Christ?” For he knew that they had delivered him because of envy.

When he sat down on the judgment seat, his wife sent a message to him, saying, “Have nothing to do with that just man, for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him.” But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus. The governor answered and said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release to you?” They said, “Barabbas.” Pilate said to them, ”What then shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?” They all said to him, “Let him be crucified.” The governor said, “Why, what evil has he done?” But they cried out the more, saying, “Let him be crucified.”

When Pilate saw that he could not prevail, but rather a disturbance was made, he took water and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, “I am innocent of the blood of this just person. You will see to it.” Then all the people answered, “His blood be on us and on our children.” Then he released Barabbas to them. Jesus was condemned to die.

Matt.27:26b-31

When he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified. Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall and the whole band of soldiers gathered around him. They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him. When they had weaved a crown of thorns, they put it on his head and a reed in his right hand and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” They spit on him and took the reed and struck him on the head. After they had mocked him, they took the robe off of him and put his own garments on him and led him away to crucify him.

Jesus was nailed to a cross and crucified.

Matt.27:35-43

They crucified him and divided his garments, casting lots that what was spoken by the prophet might be fulfilled, “They divided my garments among them and upon my clothing they cast lots.” They sat down and watched him there. They set up over his head his accusation written, “This is Jesus the King of the Jews.” Then there were two thieves crucified with him, one on the right and another on the left.

Those that passed by reviled him, swinging their heads and saying, “You that destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself. If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross.” In the same way, the chief priests, scribes, and elders mocked him saying, “He saved others. He himself he cannot save. If he is the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross and we will believe him. He trusted in God. Let him rescue him now, if he wants him, for he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’”

Matt.27:50-54

Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up his spirit. The veil of the temple was torn in two from the top to the bottom. The earth quaked and the rocks split. The graves were opened and many bodies of the saints who slept arose and came out of the graves after his resurrection. They went into the holy city and appeared to many. When the centurion and those that were with him watching Jesus saw the earthquake and those things that were done, they were filled with fear, saying, “Truly this was the Son of God.”

Jesus was buried in a rich man’s tomb.

Matt.27:57-66

When evening came, there came a rich man of Arimathea, named Joseph, who himself also was Jesus’ disciple. He went to Pilate and begged for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be given to him. When Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock. He rolled a great stone at the door of the tomb and departed. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were there sitting opposite the tomb.

The next day that followed the day of preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together before Pilate saying, “Sir, we remember that while he was still alive, that deceiver said, ‘After three days I will rise again.’ Command therefore that the tomb be made secure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night and steal him away and say to the people, ‘He is risen from the dead’ Then the last error will be worse than the first.” Pilate said to them, “You have a guard. Go your way and make it as secure as you can.” So they went and made the tomb secure, sealing the stone, and setting up a guard.

Jesus’ Resurrection From The Dead

Jesus was declared risen by an angel at the tomb.

Matt.28:1-7

After the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb. There was a great earthquake, for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone from the door and sat upon it. His appearance was like lightning and his clothing white as snow.

The guards shook in fear of him and became as dead men. The angel said to the women, “Fear not, for I know that you are seeking Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he is risen as he said. Come; see the place where the Lord lay. Go quickly and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead. He will go before you into Galilee. There you will see him. Behold, I have told you.”

Jesus appeared to women near the tomb.

Matt.28:8-10

They departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy and ran to bring his disciples the message. As they went to tell his disciples, Jesus met them, saying, “Greetings.” They came and held him by the feet and worshiped him. Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers that they should go into Galilee and there they shall see me.”

Jesus appeared to his disciples.

Lu.24:35-49

As they [the disciples] spoke, Jesus himself stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be to you.” But they were terrified and frightened and thought that they had seen a spirit. He said to them, “Why are you troubled? Why do doubts arise in your hearts? Look at my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.” When he had spoken this, he showed them his hands and his feet. While they still did not believe yet rejoiced and wondered, he said to them, “Do you have any food here?” They gave him a piece of a broiled fish. He took it and ate it before them.

He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the Law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms concerning me.” Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures and said to them, “Thus it is written and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and rise from the dead the third day and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. Behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you. Wait in the city of Jerusalem until you are endowed with power from on high.”

Jesus appeared to two disciples on the Emmaus road.

Lu.24:13-35

Two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was about seven miles from Jerusalem. They talked together about all these things which had happened. While they were talking and discussing Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were held so that they should not recognize him. He said to them, “What kind of conversation are you having with one another as you walk so that you are sad?” And one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered and said to him, "Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things which have come to pass there in these days?” He said to them, “What things?”

They said to him, “We are talking about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death and crucified him. But we trusted he was the one who would redeem Israel. And besides all this, today is the third day since these things have been done. Certain women of our group, who were at the tomb early, astonished us. When they did not find his body, they came saying that they had also seen a vision of angels who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said. But they did not see him.”

Then he said to them, “O foolish ones and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken. Should not the Christ have to suffer these things and [then] enter into his glory?” Beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he explained to them the things concerning himself in all the Scriptures. They drew near the village where they went and he made it as though he would have gone further. But they constrained him saying, “Remain with us, for it is close to evening and the day is spent.” He went to remain with them.

As he reclined with them, he took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them. Their eyes were opened and they recognized him and he vanished out of their sight. They said to one another, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked with us on the road and while he opened the Scriptures to us?” They rose up the same hour and returned to Jerusalem and found the eleven gathered together and those that were with them, saying, “The Lord is indeed risen and has appeared to Simon.” And they told them the things that happened on the road and how they recognized him in the breaking of the bread.

Jesus ascended into heaven.

Lu.24:50-53

And he led them out as far as Bethany and lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he blessed them, he departed from them and was carried up into heaven. They worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. They were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.

Jesus’ Claim of Salvation and Eternal Life in Him

Jesus claimed to be the Good Shepherd.

Jn.10:14-17

“I am the good shepherd and I know my sheep and my sheep know me. As the Father knows me, even so I know the Father. I lay down my life for the sheep. And I have other sheep [Gentile believers], who are not of this fold [Jewish believers]. I must also bring them and they shall hear my voice and there shall be one fold and one shepherd. Therefore, my Father loves me because I lay down my life that I might take it again.”

Jn.10:27-30

“My sheep hear my voice and I know them and they follow me. I give to them eternal life and they shall never perish; neither shall any one snatch them out of my hand. My Father who gave them to me is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and my Father are one.”

Jesus claimed that he came to save people from their sins.

Matt.1:20-21

But while he [Joseph] thought about these things [Mary’s pregnancy], behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she shall bring forth a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he shall save his people from their sins.”

Jn.8:24

And he [Jesus] said to them, “You are from beneath; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. I said therefore to you, that you shall die in your sins. For if you do not believe that I am he [the messiah, the Son of God], you shall die in your sins.”

Matt.20:25-28

But Jesus called them [his disciples] to him, and said, “You know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you, but whoever will be great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever will be chief among you, let him be your slave. Even as the Son of man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.

Jesus claimed that people needed to turn from their sin.

Matt.4:17

From that time Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

Jn.8:24

[Jesus said] “For if you do not believe that I am he [the messiah, the Son of God], you shall die in your sins.”

Jn.12:44-50

Jesus cried out and said, “He who believes in me, does not believe in me, but in him [the Father] who sent me. The one who sees me sees him who sent me. I have come as a light into the world that whoever believes in me should not remain in [spiritual] darkness. If any man hear my words, and does not believe, I do not judge him. For I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.

The one, who rejects me and does not receive my words, has one who judges him; the word that I have spoken shall judge him in the last day. For I have not spoken from myself, but the Father who sent me gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. I know that his commandment is eternal life. Whatever I speak therefore is what the Father has spoken to me.”

Jesus claimed he was the only way to eternal life.

Jn.14:6

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me.”

Jn.5:22-24

[Jesus said,] “For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son: that all should honor the Son, even as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears my word and believes in him who sent me has eternal life, and shall not come into condemnation, but has passed from death to life.”

Jesus invited people to come to him for spiritual rest and peace.

Matt.11:28-30

[He said,] “Come to me all you who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart and you shall find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

To “come to Jesus” means to “believe in Jesus.”

Jn.3:16-21

[Jesus said,] “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. The one who believes in him is not condemned. But the one who does not believe is condemned already, because he [or she] has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

This is the condemnation that light has come into the world and people loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that does evil hates the light, and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But the one who lives according to the truth comes to the light, that it may be revealed that his [or her] deeds are wrought in God.”

To “believe in Jesus” involves turning away from sin.

From that time Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matt.4:17)

Jn.8:24

[Jesus said,] “For if you do not believe that I am he [the messiah, the Son of God], you shall die in your sins.”

Believing in God is not enough, you must believe in Jesus.

Jn.5:22-24

Many people assume that it doesn’t matter what they believe about Jesus. As long as they “love God” they will go to heaven. But Jesus did not teach that belief. Jesus taught that God the Father desired that he, God the Son, also be honored and glorified. Anyone that does not honor the Son cannot honor the Father who sent him. Jesus said:

“For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son: that all should honor the Son, even as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears my word and believes in him who sent me has eternal life, and shall not come into condemnation, but has passed from death to life.”

Jn.5:39-40

[He said,] “You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life, and they testify of me. And you will not come to me, that you might have life.”

 

Will you come to Jesus and receive eternal life?

Dear Gospel Reader,

The words of Jesus that you have just read are not only for those who lived at the time of Jesus, but also for you. Jesus is speaking these words to you and inviting you to come to him for salvation and to receive from him eternal life. He desires that you come into his kingdom.

How do you do it? By coming to him in prayer and asking him to save you. You must turn from your sin and acknowledge to God that you are a sinner and no longer want to live according to your own will but you want to follow Jesus' will. You must believe that Jesus is exactly who He claimed to be, the Son of God, God become a man and that he died on the cross for your sins.

Ask the Lord to save you from the penalty of your sin and accept His penalty on the cross for your sins. Ask Him to be your Savior. Trust Him to save you; trust that he will save you if you turn from your sin and ask him.

If you are not sure what words to use to speak to Jesus, below is a prayer that you could use. It is not the words; it is the desire of your heart.

“Lord Jesus, I admit to you that I am a sinner and have sinned against you. Please be my Savior. I accept your payment on the cross for my sins. I trust that you are the Son of God and will save me now that I am asking you. Thank you, Lord. Amen.”

If you are not sure that in the past you have actually asked Jesus to be your Savior, you can make that commitment today. Turn from your sin and ask him.

Once you have asked him, trust that Jesus has fulfilled his word and is now your Savior. You may not “feel like” a change has taken place in your life, but it has. You must believe by faith that Jesus is now your shepherd and you have eternal life in him. May the Lord bless you as you enjoy a personal relationship with Jesus Christ!

If you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior and would like more information on what it means to be a Christian and what you should do now, go to The Titus Institute Home Page at www.titusinstitute.com and click on the link, “For New Christians.”