Reference: Jesus Christ
American
The Son of God, the Messiah and Savior of the World, the first and principal object of the prophecies; who was prefigured and promised in the Old Testament; was expected and desired by the patriarchs; the hope and salvation of the Gentiles; the glory, happiness, and consolation of Christians. The name JESUS, in Hebrew JEHOSHUAH or Joshua, signifies Savior, or Jehovah saves. No one ever bore this name with so much justice, nor so perfectly fulfilled the signification of it, as Jesus Christ, who saves from sin and hell, and has merited heaven for us by the price of his blood. It was given to him by divine appointment, Mt 1:21, as the proper name for the Savior so long desired, and whom all the myriads of the redeemed in heaven will for ever adore as their only and all-glorious Redeemer.
JESUS was the common name of the Savior; while the name CHRIST, meaning the Anointed One, The Messiah, was his official name. Both names are used separately, in the gospels and also in the epistles; but JESUS generally stands by itself in the gospels, which are narratives of his life; while in the epistles, which treat of his divine nature and of his redeeming work, he is called CHRIST, CHRIST JESUS, or THE LORD JESUS CHRIST. See CHRIST.
Here, under the Redeemer's human name, belong the facts relating to his human nature and the history of his life upon earth. His true and complete humanity, having the soul as well as the body of man, is everywhere seen in the gospel history. He who is "God over all, blessed forever," was an Israelite "as concerning the flesh," Ro 9:5, and took upon him our whole nature, in order to be a perfect Savior. As a man, Jesus was the King of men. No words can describe that character in which such firmness and gentleness, such dignity and humility, such enthusiasm and calmness, such wisdom and simplicity, such holiness and charity, such justice and mercy, such sympathy with heaven and with earth, such love to God and love to man blended in perfect harmony. Nothing in it was redundant, and nothing was wanting. The world had never produced, nor even conceived of such a character, and its portraiture in the gospels is a proof of their divine origin, which the infidel cannot gainsay. Could the whole human race, of all ages, kindreds, and tongues, be assembled to see the crucified Redeemer as he is, and compare earth's noblest benefactors with Him, there would be but one voice among them. Every crown of glory and every meed of praise would be given to Him who alone is worthy-for perfection of character, for love to mankind, for sacrifices endured, and for benefits bestowed. His glory will forever be celebrated as the Friend of man; the Lamb sacrificed for us.
The visit of JESUS CHRIST to the earth has made it forever glorious above less favored worlds, and forms the most signal event in its annals. The time of his birth is commemorated by the Christian era, the first year of which corresponds to about the year 753 from the building of Rome. It is generally conceded, however, that the Savior was born at least four years before A. D. 1, and four thousand years after the creation of Adam. His public ministry commenced when he was thirty years of age; and continued, according to the received opinion, three and a half years. Respecting his ancestors, see GENEALOGY.
The life of the Redeemer must be studied in the four gospels, where it was recorded under the guidance of supreme wisdom. Many efforts have been made, with valuable results, to arrange the narrations of the evangelists in the true order of time. But as neither of the gospels follows the exact course of events, many incidents are very indeterminate, and are variously arranged by different harmonists. No one, however, has been more successful than Dr. Robinson in his valuable "Harmony of the Gospels".
The divine wisdom is conspicuous not only in what is taught us respecting the life of Jesus, but in what is withheld. Curiosity, and the higher motives of warm affection, raise numerous questions to which the gospels give no reply; and in proportion as men resort to dubious traditions, they lose the power of a pure and spiritual gospel. See further, concerning Christ, MESSIAH, REDEEMER, etc.
Jesus was not an uncommon name among the Jews. It was the name of the father of Elymas the sorcerer, Ac 13:6; and of Justus, a fellow-laborer and friend of Paul, Col 4:11. It is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Joshua, or Jeshua, borne by the high priest in Ezra's time, and by the well-known leader of the Jews in to the Promised Land. See also 1Sa 6:14; 2Ki 23:8. The Greek form of the word, Jesus, is twice used in the New Testament when Joshua the son of Nun is intended, Ac 7:45; Heb 4:8.
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and she shall be deliver'd of a son, to whom you shall give the name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.
which our fathers and Joshua having receiv'd, they carry'd it into the territory of those nations whom God drove out upon their arrival: where it staid to the time of David, who was favoured by God,
Having travers'd the isle as far as to Paphos, they found a Jew there nam'd Barjesus, who was a false prophet and magician:
who are the offspring of the patriarchs, and of whom as to the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.
Jesus, who is called Justus, salutes you: these are the only Jews who by assisting me in preaching the gospel,
for if Joshuah had given them rest, David would not afterwards have mentioned another day.
Fausets
(See JESUS.) ("Jehovah salvation"); for "He Himself (autos, not merely like Joshua He is God's instrument to save) saves His people from their sins" (Mt 1:21). CHRIST, Greek; MESSIAH, Hebrew, "anointed" (1Sa 2:10; Ps 2:2,6 margin; Da 9:25-26). Prophets, priests, and kings (Ex 30:30; 1Ki 19:15-16) were anointed, being types of Him who combines all three in Himself (De 18:18; Zec 6:13). "By one offering He hath perfected forever them that are being sanctified" (Heb 10:5,7,14; 7:25). "Christ," or the Messiah, was looked for by all Jews as "He who should come" (Mt 11:3) according to the Old Testament prophets. Immanuel "God with us" declares His Godhead; also Joh 1:1-18. (See IMMANUEL.) The New Testament shows that Jesus is the Christ (Mt 22:42-45).
Jesus is His personal name, "Christ" is His title. Appropriately, in undesigned confirmation of the Gospels, Acts, and epistles, the question throughout the Gospels is, whether Jesus is "The" (the article is always in the Greek) Christ (Mt 16:16; Joh 6:69), so in the first ministry of the word in Acts (Ac 2:36; 9:22; 10:38; 17:3). When His Messiahship became recognized "Christ" was used as His personal designation; so in the epistles.
Christ implies His consecration and qualification for the work He undertook, namely, by His unction with the Holy Spirit, of which the Old Testament oil anointings were the type; in the womb (Lu 1:35), and especially at His baptism, when the Holy Spirit (as a dove) abode on Him (Mt 3:16; Joh 1:32-33). Transl. Ps 45:7; "O God (the Son), Thy God (the Father) hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows." Full of this unction without measure (Joh 3:34) He preached at Nazareth as the Fulfiller of the scripture He read (Isa 61:1-3), giving "the oil of joy for mourning," "good tidings unto the meek" (Lu 4:17-21). Jesus' claim to be Messiah or "the Christ of God" (Lu 9:20), i.e. the anointed of the Father to be king of the earth (Ps 2:6-12; Re 11:15; 12:10), rests:
(1) On His fulfilling all the prophecies concerning Messiah, so far as His work has been completed, the earnest of the full completion; take as instances Isaiah 53; Psalm 22; Micah 5; Ho 6:2-3; Ge 49:10, compare Luke 2; "the testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of prophecy" (Re 19:10; Lu 24:26,44-46; Ac 3:22-25).
(2) On His miracles (Joh 7:31; 5:36; 10:25,38). Miracles alleged in opposition, or addition, to Scripture cannot prove a divine mission (2Th 2:9; De 13:1-3; Mt 24:24), but when confirmed by Scripture they prove it indisputably.
Son of David expresses His title to David's throne over Israel and Judah yet to be (Lu 1:32-33). "King of Israel" (Joh 1:49), "King of the Jews" (Mt 2:2; 21:5), "King of Zion." As son of David He is David's "offspring"; as "root of David" (in His divine nature) He is David's "lord" (Re 22:16, compare Mt 22:42-45). His claim to the kingship was the charge against Him before Pilate (Joh 18:37; 19:3,12). The elect of God (Lu 23:35, compare Isa 42:1). The inspired summary of His life is, "God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil, for God was with Him" (Ac 10:38). To be "in Christ," which occurs upward of 70 times in Paul's epistles, is not merely to copy but to be in living union with Him (1Co 15:18; 2Co 12:2), drawn from Christ's own image (Joh 15:1-10). In Christ God is manifested as He is, and man as he ought to be. Our fallen race lost the knowledge of man as utterly as they lost the knowledge of God.
Humanity in Christ is generic (1Co 15:45,47), as the second "man" or "last Adam," "the Son of man" (a title used in New Testament only by Himself of Himself, except in Stephen's dying speech, Ac 7:56; from Da 7:13; marking at once His humiliation as man's representative Head, and His consequent glorification in the same nature: Mt 20:28; 26:64.) Sinless Himself, yet merciful to sinners; meek under provocation, yet with refined sensibility; dignified, yet without arrogance; pure Himself, yet with a deep insight into evil; Christ is a character of human and divine loveliness such as man could never have invented; for no man has ever conceived, much less attained, such a standard; see His portraiture, Mt 12:15-20. Even His own brethren could not understand His withdrawal into Galilee, as, regarding Him like other men, they took it for granted that publicity was His aim (Joh 7:3-4; contrast Joh 5:44). Jesus was always more accessible than His disciples, they all rebuked the parents who brought their infants for Him to bless (Lu 18:15-17), they all would have sent the woman of Canaan away.
But He never misunderstood nor discouraged any sincere seeker, contrast Mt 20:31 with Mt 20:24-32. Earthly princes look greatest at a distance, surrounded with pomp; but He needed no earthly state, for the more closely He is viewed the more He stands forth in peerless majesty, sinless and divine. (On His miracles, see MIRACLES and on His parables, see PARABLES.) He rested His teaching on His own authority, and the claim was felt by all, through some mysterious power, to be no undue one (Mt 7:29). He appeals to Scripture as His own: "Behold I send unto you prophets," etc. (Mt 23:34; in Lu 11:49, "the Wisdom of God said, I will send them prophets".) His secret spring of unstained holiness, yet tender sympathy, was His constant communion with God; at all times, so that He was never alone (Joh 16:32), "rising up a great while before day, in a solitary place" (Mr 1:35).
Luke tells us much of His prayers: "He continued all night in prayer to God," before ordaining the twelve (Lu 6:12); it was as He was "praying, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended, and (the Father's) voice came from heaven, Thou art My beloved Son," etc. (Lu 3:22); it was "as He prayed, the fashion of His countenance was altered, and His raiment was white and glistering" (Lu 9:29); when the angel strengthened Him in Gethsemane, "in an agony He prayed more earnestly," using the additional strength received not to refresh Himself after His exhausting conflict, but to strive in supplication, His example confirming His precept, Lu 13:24 (Lu 22:44; Heb 5:7). His Father's glory, not His own, was His absorbing aim (Joh 8:29,50; 7:18); from His childhood when at 12 years old (for it was only in His 12th year that Archelaus was banished and His parents ventured to bring Him to the Passover: Josephus, Ant. 17:15) His first recorded utterance was, "Wist ye not that I must be about My Father's business?" or else "in My Father's places" (Lu 2:49; Ps 40:6,8).
Little is recorded of His childhood, but as much as the Spirit saw it safe for us to know; so prone is man to lose sight of Christ's main work, to fulfill the law and pay its penalty in our stead. The reticence of Scripture as remarkably shows God's inspiration of it as its records and revelations. Had the writers been left to themselves, they would have tried to gratify our natural curiosity about His early years. But a veil is drawn over all the rest of His sayings for the first 30 years. "He waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom ... He increased in wisdom" (Lu 2:40,52), which proves that He had a" reasonable soul" capable of development, as distinct from His Godhead; Athanasian Creed: "perfect God and perfect man, of a reasonable soul and human flesh subsisting." His tender considerateness for His disciples after their missionary journey, and His compassion for the fainting multitudes, outweighing all thought; of His own repose when He was weary, and when others would have been impatient of their retirement being intruded on (Mr 6:30-37), are lovely examples of His human, and at the same time superhuman, sympathy (Heb 4:15). Then how utterly void was He of resentment for wrongs.
When apprehended, instead of sharing the disciples' indignation He rebuked it; instead of rejoicing in His enemy's suffering, He removed it (Lu 22:50-51); instead of condemning His murderers He prayed for them: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" (Lu 23:34). What exquisite tact and tenderness appear in His dealing with the woman of Samaria (John 4), as He draws the spiritual lesson from
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and she shall be deliver'd of a son, to whom you shall give the name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.
Where is this king of the Jews who is now born? for we have seen his rising star, and are come to pay him homage.
and entring into the house, they saw the infant with Mary his mother, and prostrating themselves, they worshipped him: then opening their treasures, they presented him with gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.
where he stay'd till the death of Herod: so that what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, saying, "Out of Egypt have I called my son," was then fulfill'd.
but John opposed him, I have need, said he, to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?
but John opposed him, I have need, said he, to be baptized by you, and do you come to me? and Jesus answer'd, Let it be so for the present, for it becometh us to do whatever is right. then John consented. read more. and when Jesus was baptized, he came out of the water: and immediately the heavens seem'd to be parted asunder before him, and he saw the Spirit
and when Jesus was baptized, he came out of the water: and immediately the heavens seem'd to be parted asunder before him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: at the same time a voice was heard from heaven, saying, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
Then was Jesus led up by the Spirit into the wilderness, to be tempted by the devil:
whereupon the tempter came to him, and said, "If thou be the Son of God, command these stones to become bread."
then the devil took Jesus with him to Jerusalem, and having set him on the wing of the temple, he said to him,
After this, Jesus having heard that John was confined in prison, retired into Galilee. and leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, a maritime town upon the confines of Zabulon and Nepthalim: read more. whereby those words of Esaias the prophet, had their full effect, "the land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, lying upon the sea, and about Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles: the people which sat in darkness, saw a great light: and to those who sat in the region and shadow of death, light is sprung up." from that time Jesus began to preach, "Repent, said he, for the kingdom of the Messiah draws nigh."
from that time Jesus began to preach, "Repent, said he, for the kingdom of the Messiah draws nigh." Now as Jesus was walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brethren, Simon, called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting their net into the sea: for they were fishermen. read more. and he said to them, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men: so they immediately left their nets, and followed him. Going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who were in a bark with Zebedee their father, mending their nets: and Jesus having called them, they immediately left the bark with their father, and followed him.
for he taught them, as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
When Jesus was entred into Capernaum, a centurion came and addressed himself to him,
After this Jesus went to Peter's house, where seeing his wife's mother lying sick of a fever,
whereby was fulfilled what Esaias the prophet said, "Himself took our infirmities, and bare, our diseases." Now Jesus perceiving the crowd about him, gave orders to pass over to the other side of the lake.
and he answer'd, why are you afraid, o incredulous people? then he arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm.
When he was arrived on the other side, in the country of the Gergesenes, two demoniacs met him starting out of the tombs with such fury, it was not safe for any body to pass that way.
Being imbark'd, he pass'd over, and came to his own town,
Then if they persecute you in one city, fly to another: for I assure you, before you have preach'd thro' all the cities of the Jews, the son of man will come.
art thou he that was to come, or must we expect another?
but Jesus perceiving their design, withdrew himself thence, accompany'd by great multitudes, and he healed all their sick, charging them not to discover him. read more. so that what was said by Esaias the prophet, was fulfill'd; "behold, my servant whom I have chosen, my beloved in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew justice to the nations. he shall not strive, nor cry, neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets. a bruised reed shall he not break, and smoaking flax shall he not quench, till he hath made justice victorious.
but the Pharisees upon hearing this said, he exorcizes devils, by virtue only of Beelzebub the prince of the devils.
but the Pharisees upon hearing this said, he exorcizes devils, by virtue only of Beelzebub the prince of the devils.
The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea-side.
Simon Peter made answer, thou art Christ the son of the living God.
but he frown'd upon Peter, and said, out of my sight pernicious obstacle to my designs; your views are all worldly, regardless of what is divine.
upon hearing this, the other ten disciples were moved with indignation against the two brothers. but Jesus calling them to him, said, ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise arbitrary dominion over them, and they that are great exercise their authority. read more. but it must not be so among you: on the contrary, whoever would rise among you, let him be your minister. and whoever would be chief among you, let him be your servant. as the son of man came not to be ministred unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for all.
as the son of man came not to be ministred unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for all. At their departure from Jericho, a great multitude followed him. read more. and there were two blind men sitting by the way-side, who hearing that Jesus was passing by, cried out, "have mercy on us, O Lord, thou son of David." and the people reprimanded them, to make them hold their tongue: but they bawl'd out the more, have mercy on us, O Lord, thou son of David.
and the people reprimanded them, to make them hold their tongue: but they bawl'd out the more, have mercy on us, O Lord, thou son of David. then Jesus stood still, and calling them, said, what would ye have me do for you?
saying, " tell ye the daughter of Sion, behold, thy king cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting on an ass, even a colt, the fole of an ass."
Then Jesus entered into the temple of God, drove out all those that sold and bought in the temple, overthrew the tables of the money-changers, and the stalls of those that sold doves,
what think ye of Christ? whose son is he to be? they answered, David's.
what think ye of Christ? whose son is he to be? they answered, David's. how comes it then, said he, that David by inspiration calls him Lord, in these words,
how comes it then, said he, that David by inspiration calls him Lord, in these words, " the Lord said unto my Lord, sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool?"
" the Lord said unto my Lord, sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool?" why then does David call him Lord, if He be David's son?
why then does David call him Lord, if He be David's son?
wherefore I shall send you prophets, and wise men, and Scribes; you will kill some, and crucify others, many will ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city.
for there shall arise false Messiahs, and false prophets, and shall shew such astonishing miracles and prodigies, as to deceive, if that can do it, the very converts themselves.
Jesus reply'd, I am: moreover I declare to you, within a while ye shall see the son of man sitting on the right hand of God, and coming on the clouds of heaven.
and cry'd, you that could destroy the temple, and rebuild it in three days, now save thy self: if thou art the son of God, come down from the cross.
presently after the spirit convey'd him into the desart. where he continued forty days, being tempted by Satan: and when he was among the wild beasts, angels ministred unto him. read more. But after John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, spreading the good news of the kingdom of the Messiah.
But after John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, spreading the good news of the kingdom of the Messiah. "the time, said he, is accomplish'd, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel."
"the time, said he, is accomplish'd, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel." Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon, and Andrew his brother, casting their net into the sea: read more. (for they were fishers) and Jesus said to them, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. immediately they quitted their nets, and followed him. when he had gone a little further, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the bark mending their nets. whereupon he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the people he had hired, and went after him.
and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the people he had hired, and went after him.
what have we to do with thee, Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to torment us? I know thee who thou art, the holy one of God.
In the evening, when the sun was set, they brought to him many diseased, and several demoniacks. the whole town being assembled before the door. read more. and he healed many that were variously affected with diseases, and cast out many demons, not allowing them to say that they knew him.
and he healed many that were variously affected with diseases, and cast out many demons, not allowing them to say that they knew him. On the morrow rising up, while it was yet dark, he went out, and retired into a solitary place, where he prayed.
Some time after he returned to Capernaum; upon the rumour that he was there,
but there were certain of the Scribes sitting there, who were dissatisfied in their own minds, and said to themselves,
and immediately Jesus perceiving by his spirit, that they made these secret reflections, said, why do you entertain such suggestions?
as he passed along, he saw Levi the son of Alpheus, sitting at the custom-house, and said to him, follow me. accordingly he arose and followed him. at length as Jesus sat at table in Levi's house, several publicans and loose people sat down likewise in company with Jesus, and his disciples: for a good number of them had followed him. read more. when the Scribes and Pharisees saw him eating with such a crew, they ask'd his disciples, what's the meaning that he is so familiar with people of such a wretched character? Jesus hearing this, said to them, they that are in health, have no need of a physician, but they that are sick: I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.
and crying with a loud voice, said, "what injury have I done you, Jesus, thou son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, not to torment me."
Now the apostles met together in a body before Jesus, and gave him a full account, both of what they had done, and what they had taught. then Jesus said to them, come, let us retire privately to some place of solitude, to repose your selves a while. for such a crowd of people were continually coming and going, that they had not even time to eat. read more. so they privately set sail for the desart (of Bethsaida.) but the people saw them embark, and many perceiving where they were bound, they ran thither a foot from all parts: and arrived at the place, before the passengers were come. so that when Jesus landed, he found there a numerous assembly: which rais'd his compassion, because they were like so many sheep straggling without a pastor. whereupon he gave them various instructions. but as the day was far advanc'd, his disciples came to him, and said, this is a desart place, and it is now late. dismiss the company, that they may go to the neighbouring farms and villages to buy provisions, for they have nothing to eat. Jesus replied, do you your selves give them something to eat. shall we go then, said they, to purchase bread, to the value of two hundred denarii, for them to eat?
I have likewise thought proper; most excellent Theophilus, to write to you a particular account; having made a very diligent inquiry into the whole matter,
he shall be great, he shall be the son of the most high. the Lord God shall give him the throne of his father David. he shall reign over the house of Jacob, and of his kingdom there shall be no end."
the angel answered her, "the holy spirit shall descend upon thee, and the power of the most high shall over-shadow thee: wherefore thy holy offspring shall be called the son of God.
In that country there were shepherds lying in the open fields, taking their turns to watch the stock in the night; when all of a sudden an angel of the Lord appear'd to them, and a heavenly light shone about them, at which they were greatly affrighted. read more. but the angel said to them, be not afraid, I am only come to bring you great news, which will be matter of joy to you and to the whole world. for the Lord Messiah your saviour is this day born, in the city of David: and by this sign shall you know him; you will find the babe swathed, lying in a manger. All of a sudden an army of celestial beings join'd the angel, singing praises to God, and saying, "glory to God in the heavens, and to men on earth felicity in the divine favour." As soon as the angels retired back to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, let us go to Bethlehem, to see the fact, of which the Lord inform'd us. accordingly they hasted thither, and found Mary and Joseph with the babe lying in the manger. when they had seen him, they divulged what the angel had told them concerning this child. and all that heard of it, were surprized at what the shepherds related.
and the child grew in stature and in all the improvements of the mind; he was stor'd with wisdom, and was the object of divine favour.
Jesus replied, why were ye so sollicitous about me? don't you know that 'tis my business to be in my father's house?
Jesus replied, why were ye so sollicitous about me? don't you know that 'tis my business to be in my father's house?
in the mean time Jesus increas'd in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
in the mean time Jesus increas'd in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
and the holy spirit descended upon him in a corporeal form like a dove. and a voice came from heaven, which said, thou art my beloved son, in thee I am well pleased.
but Jesus answered him, avant, satan, for it is written, "thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve."
Jesus return'd by the influence of the spirit into Galilee, where his same quickly spread over all the country; for he preach'd in their synagogues with universal applause.
for he preach'd in their synagogues with universal applause. being come to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; according to his custom, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath-day, and standing up to read,
being come to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; according to his custom, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath-day, and standing up to read, they delivered to him the book of the prophet Esaias, and upon opening the book, that passage occurr'd, where it is written, read more. "the spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor, he hath sent me to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to proclaim the favourable year of the Lord." then he closed the book, and returning it to the minister, he sat down: and as the eyes of the whole synagogue were fix'd with attention upon him, he undertook to show them, how the passage they had heard, was actually then accomplished.
but he pass'd thro' the midst of them and went away.
now there was in the synagogue a man possess'd with the spirit of an impure demon, who roar'd out, in these words, let us alone; what business have you with us, Jesus of Nazareth? are you come to destroy us? I know who you are; the saint of God. read more. but Jesus rebuk'd him, saying, be dumb, and come out of him. upon which the demon threw him down in the midst of the assembly, and came out, without doing him any harm. and they were all amazed, and said to one another, what's the meaning of this? with authority and power he commands the impure spirits, and they come out! and his fame spread through all the neighbouring country. When Jesus came out of the synagogue, he went to Simon's house, whose mother-in-law was seized with a violent fever, and they desired him to relieve her. so approaching near her, he order'd the fever to leave her, and it left her. upon which she immediately arose, and waited upon them at table. As soon as the sun was set, all sorts of diseased persons were brought before him by their friends, and he healed them all, by laying his hands upon them. many were dispossess'd of the demons, who cried aloud, you are the Messiah, the son of God. but he rebuked them, and would not suffer them to declare, that they knew him to be the Messiah.
One day, as the people press'd after him to hear his divine preaching, he came near the lake of Gennesereth,
One day, as the people press'd after him to hear his divine preaching, he came near the lake of Gennesereth, where he saw two vessels lying near shore: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets. read more. he went therefore aboard one of the vessels, which was Simon's, and desired him to bear away a little from land. then he sat down, and preached to the people from the ship. having finished his sermon, he said to Simon, row into deep water, and throw out your nets for a draught. master, said Simon, we have toil'd all the night, without any prize: however, since you give the word, I will throw the net. which being done, they enclosed such a multitude of fish, the net began to break: so they made a signal to their partners in the other ship to come and help them. accordingly they came, and loaded both the boats so with fish that they began to sink.
so they made a signal to their partners in the other ship to come and help them. accordingly they came, and loaded both the boats so with fish that they began to sink. at sight of this, Simon Peter fell on his knees before Jesus, and said, Lord, withdraw from such a sinful man as I: read more. for he, and all the company were frightned at the draught of fish they had taken: so was James too, and John, the sons of Zebedee, both partners with Simon. but Jesus said to Simon, be not afraid; for the future you shall fish for men.
At another time, as he was teaching, it happened that some Pharisees, and doctors of the law were sitting by, who came from the several towns of Galilee and Judea, and from Jerusalem: when the power of the Lord appear'd in their relief.
but the Scribes and Pharisees of that place reproach'd his disciples, and said, why do ye eat and drink with publicans and scandalous people?
About that time, Jesus retired to a mountain to pray, and spent the whole night in an oratory.
but who, said he, do you think I am? Peter answered, you are the Messiah of God.
as he was praying, the appearance of his countenance was quite chang'd, and his raiment was of a splendid white:
Now the time of his assumption drawing nigh, he was fix'd in his resolution to go to Jerusalem:
agreeably to this, in the Wisdom of God 'tis said, "I will send them prophets and apostles: some they will kill, and others they will persecute:
strive to enter in at the narrow gate: for I declare unto you, that many shall try to get in, and shall not be able.
And as they were presenting children to him, for the imposition of hands, his disciples observing it, rebuk'd those that brought them. but Jesus called the children to him, and said to his disciples, let the children come to me, without any hindrance, for they who belong to the kingdom of God, must be like them. read more. I declare unto you, he that does not come with the disposition of a child shall not enter into the kingdom of God.
After this discourse, Jesus pursued his journey towards Jerusalem.
then an angel from heaven appear'd to him, and comforted him. and being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was like grumes of blood falling to the ground.
and one of them struck a servant of the high priest, and slash'd off his right ear. but Jesus oppos'd, and said, forbear, stop there. and having touch'd his ear, he healed him.
at last Pilate said to the chief priests, and to the people, I don't find any crime in this man.
and Jesus said, "father, forgive them; for they know not what they do." then they divided his raiment among them by throwing lots, while the people who stood looking on, and the senators themselves contemptuously said, he sav'd others; if he be Christ, the elect of God, let him save himself.
but the other answered, and thus reprov'd him, art thou under no awe of God, thou that art condemned to the same punishment? as for us, it is with justice, that we suffer the penalty due to our crimes: but as for him, what misdemeanour has he been guilty of? read more. then said he to Jesus, Lord, remember me when you enter into your kingdom. Jesus answer'd, verily I tell you, this day thou shalt be with me in paradise.
The centurion upon seeing what had happen'd, gave glory to God, and said, certainly this was a righteous man.
was not the Messiah to have suffer'd thus, and after that enter into his glory?
then he said, this is what I told you, while I was yet with you, that what has been written concerning me in the law of Moses, in the prophets, and in the psalms, must be all accomplished. then he open'd their minds to make them understand the scriptures, and said to them, read more. thus it is written, and thus it behov'd Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:
In the beginning was the Logos, and the Logos was with God, and the Logos was God. the same was in the beginning with God. read more. all things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made. the Life was produc'd in him, and the Life was the Light of men. and the Light shineth in darkness, but the darkness did not receive it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. he came as a witness, to represent what he knew of the light, that by his means all might be convinc'd. he was not that Light, but was sent to testify of that light. HE was the true Light who came into the world, to enlighten every man. he was in the world, even the world that had been made by him, but the world knew him not. he came unto his own, and his own received him not. but to as many as received him, and believed on him, he granted the privilege of being the sons of God. a birth which they had not from circumcision, nor from the constitution of the body, nor the institution of man, but from God. The Logos became incarnate, and had his tabernacle among us, being full of grace and truth; and we contemplated his glory, such glory as the Monogenes derived from the father. it was of him that John bare witness, when he made this declaration, "this was he of whom I said, he that cometh after me, was before me; for he did indeed exist before me." and of his Plenitude have we all received, even abundant grace. the law indeed was delivered by Moses, but grace and truth was the dispensation of Jesus Christ. no man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten son, who is intimate with the father, hath made him known.
these things were transacted at Bethabara, near Jordan, where John used to baptize.
I knew him not: but therefore am I come baptizing with water, that he might be manifest to Israel. and John testified, saying, I saw the spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him.
and John testified, saying, I saw the spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. I had not known him: but he that sent me to baptize with water, had told me, "upon whom thou shalt see the spirit descending and remaining on him, the same is he who baptizeth with the holy spirit."
I had not known him: but he that sent me to baptize with water, had told me, "upon whom thou shalt see the spirit descending and remaining on him, the same is he who baptizeth with the holy spirit."
The day following Jesus having a mind to go into Galilee, met with Philip, and said to him, follow me.
Philip meeting with Nathanael, said to him, we have found him of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.
Nathanael answered, rabbi, thou art the son of God, thou art the king of Israel.
Nathanael answered, rabbi, thou art the son of God, thou art the king of Israel.
Three days after, there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee; where the mother of Jesus was present.
for the Jews passover being nigh, Jesus went up to Jerusalem,
whereupon the Jews said, what miracle can you show to justify your behaviour? Jesus answered them, saying, destroy this temple, and within three days I will raise it up. read more. to this said the Jews, forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days?
After this Jesus went with his disciples into Judea, where he stay'd with them for some time, and baptized, while John was likewise baptizing in Enon, near Salim, it being a place abounding with water: so that people came to be baptized there. read more. for John was not yet cast into prison.
for John was not yet cast into prison. Now there happen'd to be a dispute about baptism between a Jews, and some of John's disciples: read more. who thereupon went to John, and said, master, he that was with you beyond Jordan, to whom you bore testimony, he himself does now baptize likewise, and the people flock to him.
for he whom God hath sent, saith nothing but what is divine: for God hath given him the spirit without restriction.
Jesus therefore knowing the Pharisees had heard that he made more disciples, and baptized more than John,
Jesus therefore knowing the Pharisees had heard that he made more disciples, and baptized more than John, (though Jesus himself did not baptize, but only his disciples) he left Judea,
(though Jesus himself did not baptize, but only his disciples) he left Judea, and returned into Galilee.
and returned into Galilee. but being obliged to pass through Samaria, read more. he came to a city of Samaria, called Sychar, near the piece of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore being wearied with his journey, sat him down by the well: it being about the sixth hour. where a woman of Samaria being come to draw water, Jesus said to her, give me to drink. for his disciples were gone away to the city to buy provisions. but the woman of Samaria said to him, how is it that you who are a Jew, ask drink of me, who am a Samaritan? (for the Jews have no friendly intercourse with the Samaritans.) Jesus answered her, if you knew the dispensation of God, and who it is that says to you, give me to drink; you would have asked of him, and he would have given you living water. sir, said the woman, you have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: whence then can you get that living water? are you wiser than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, as well as his children, and cattle? Jesus answered her, they that drink of this water, will be thirsty again: but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him, shall never thirst: for the water that I shall give him, shall be in him a fountain springing up to everlasting life. sir, replied the woman, give me this water, that I may never be adry, nor come hither to draw more. go, call your husband, said Jesus, and come again. the woman answered, I have no husband. Jesus replied, you were in the right to say you have no husband: for you have had five husbands, and he whom you now have, is not your husband: in that you said true. the woman said to him, sir, I perceive that you are a prophet. our fathers worshipped upon this mountain; and you say, that Jerusalem is the place where we ought to perform our worship. Jesus said to her, woman, believe me, the time is coming when it shall be neither on this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem that ye shall worship the father. ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is from the Jews. but the time is coming, nay, is very nigh, when the true worshippers shall worship the father in spirit and in truth: for they are the worshippers which he requires. God is a spirit, and they that worship him, must worship him in spirit and in truth. then said the woman to him, I know that the Messias (that is to say the Christ) is to come, and when he is come, he will tell us all things. Jesus said to her, I that am talking with you am he. Upon this his disciples came, and were surpriz'd at his conversing with the woman: yet none of them said, what did you ask her? or, why do you talk with her? the woman then left her water-pot, and went away into the city, and said to the people, come, see a man who told me all that ever I have done: is not this the Christ? so they went out of the city, and came to him. In the mean while his disciples invited him, saying, pray master, eat. but he answered them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of: upon which the disciples said one to another, hath any man brought him any thing to eat? Jesus said to them, my meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. is it not a common saying, "t'other four months, and then comes harvest?" lift up your eyes now, I say, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.
is it not a common saying, "t'other four months, and then comes harvest?" lift up your eyes now, I say, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. he that reapeth, receiveth wages, by gathering fruit unto life eternal: that the sower, and the reaper, may both rejoice together. read more. upon this occasion, that saying is verified, "one soweth, and another reapeth." I sent you to reap where you bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and you are entred into their labours. Now many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him, for that testimony which the woman gave him, "he told me all that ever I did." so that when the Samaritans were come to him, they desired him to stay with them: and he stay'd there two days. and many more believed, for having heard him speak himself: and said to the woman, now it is not for what you have said, that we believe: for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the saviour of the world, the Christ. Two days after, he departed thence, and went into Galilee:
Jesus went therefore a second time to Cana in Galilee, where he had changed the water into wine. now a certain nobleman was there, whose son was sick at Capernaum.
but Jesus said to him, except you see signs and miracles, you will not believe.
Some time after this the feast of the Jews being come, Jesus went up to Jerusalem.
Some time after this the feast of the Jews being come, Jesus went up to Jerusalem.
Some time after this the feast of the Jews being come, Jesus went up to Jerusalem.
Some time after this the feast of the Jews being come, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. now there was at Jerusalem by the sheep-gate a bath, called in Hebrew, Bethesda, which had five portico's.
now there was at Jerusalem by the sheep-gate a bath, called in Hebrew, Bethesda, which had five portico's. where a great number of infirm, blind, lame, and paralytic people lay waiting for the moving of the water:
where a great number of infirm, blind, lame, and paralytic people lay waiting for the moving of the water: (for a messenger went down at certain times into the pool, and agitated the water: the first then that stepped in after this commotion of the water, was cured of whatever disease he had.)
(for a messenger went down at certain times into the pool, and agitated the water: the first then that stepped in after this commotion of the water, was cured of whatever disease he had.) now a certain man was there, who had been sick eight and thirty years.
now a certain man was there, who had been sick eight and thirty years. Jesus seeing him lie there, and knowing that he had been sick a long time, said to him, will you be cured?
Jesus seeing him lie there, and knowing that he had been sick a long time, said to him, will you be cured? the sick man answered him, sir, I have nobody to put me into the pool when the water has been agitated: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.
the sick man answered him, sir, I have nobody to put me into the pool when the water has been agitated: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me. rise, said Jesus to him, take up thy bed, and go your way.
rise, said Jesus to him, take up thy bed, and go your way. and immediately the man was healed, and took up his bed, and went his way: but that day being the sabbath,
and immediately the man was healed, and took up his bed, and went his way: but that day being the sabbath, the Jews said to him that was cured, it is the sabbath-day; it is not lawful for you to carry your bed.
the Jews said to him that was cured, it is the sabbath-day; it is not lawful for you to carry your bed. he answered them, he that cured me said to me, take up your bed and walk. read more. then they asked him, who is he that said to you take up your bed and walk? and he that was healed, did not know who it was: for Jesus had slip'd away, by favour of the crowd that was there. sometime after Jesus met him in the temple, and said to him, you see you were cured: sin no more, lest you suffer something worse. then the man departed to acquaint the Jews, that it was Jesus who had cured him. upon which occasion the Jews persecuted Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he did such things on the sabbath-day. But Jesus answered them, my father works without intermission, and so do I. therefore the Jews were the more eager to kill him, because he had not only violated the sabbath, but likewise, because he had said that God was his proper father, making himself equal with God. upon which Jesus said to them, verily, verily I say unto you, the son can do nothing of himself, except he sees the father do it: for whatever he doth, that the son does likewise.
but I have a better witness than that of John: for the works which my father hath order'd me to finish, those very works that I do, bear me witness, that 'tis the father who sent me.
how can you believe, who are catching at honour one from another, regardless of that glory that comes from God only?
At length Jesus passed over the sea of Galilee, which is the sea of Tiberias;
for it was just before the passover, which is a feast of the Jews.
and we have believed and we have acknowledged that you are the Christ, the son of God.
After this Jesus resided in Galilee: for he would not be in Judea, because the Jews sought to kill him. now the
After this Jesus resided in Galilee: for he would not be in Judea, because the Jews sought to kill him. now the
his relations said to him, retire hence, and go into Judea, that your disciples there may also see the works that you do. for no body acts in private, that designs to distinguish himself: since you do such things, shew yourself to the world.
he that speaks from himself, has a view to his own glory: but he that has a view to his glory that sent him, deserves credit, and is a stranger to all imposture.
besides many of the people believed on him, and said, when Christ comes, will he do more miracles than this man hath done?
In the last day, the most solemn day of the feast, Jesus being there, raised his voice, and said, if any man thirst, let him come to me, and drink.
and as they pressed him to answer, he rais'd himself, and said to them, he that is without sin among you, let him be the first that throws a stone at her.
Lord, said she, no man. and Jesus said to her, neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more. Jesus then having reassumed his discourse, said to them, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me, shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
you pass sentence according to your passions: I pass sentence on no man;
he that sent me, is with me: the father hath not left me alone, for I always do what is agreeable to him.
I do not consult my own glory: there is one that will consult that, and judge accordingly.
At length the feast of the dedication was kept at Jerusalem, when the weather happen'd to be foul. as Jesus therefore was walking in the temple in Solomon's portico,
Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye did not believe me: the works that I do in my father's name, they testify of me.
I and my father are one. then the Jews took up stones again to stone him. read more. Jesus answered them, many good works have I shewed you from my father; for which of those works would you stone me? the Jews answered him, saying, it is not for any good work that we stone thee; but for blasphemy, inasmuch as you, being a man, pretend to be a God.
but if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know and believe that the father is in me, and I in him.
father, glorify thy name." then there came this voice from heaven, "I have glorified it, and will glorify it again."
Now before the feast of the passover, Jesus perceiving that his hour was come, when he was to pass out of this world, and go to the father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end.
Philip said to him, Lord shew us the father, and we are satisfied. Jesus said to him, have I been with you so long, and don't you know me yet? Philip, he that hath seen me, hath seen the father; why then do you say, shew us the father? read more. don't you believe that I am in the father, and the father in me? the words that I speak unto you, I speak indeed, tho' not from my self; but as to the works, the father, who dwells in me, he is the agent. believe me, I am in the father, and the father in me: at least believe me upon account of the very works.
for the prince of the world is coming:
I am the genuine vine, and my father is the vintager. every branch in me that beareth not fruit, he takes away: as for the branch that bears fruit, he prunes it clean, to make it more fruitful. read more. you are already clean by the instructions I have given you. be attach'd to me, and I shall be so to you. as the branch cannot bear fruit of it self, except it be attach'd to the vine: so neither can you, except you continue attach'd to me. I am the vine, you are the branches: he that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for independent of me ye can do nothing. if a man abide not in me, he is cast away as withered branches that are gather'd up to be thrown into the fire, where they are burned. if ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask what ye will, and you shall obtain it. my father will be honour'd by your bearing much fruit, and you will have the honour of being my disciples. as the father has loved me, and I have loved you: so do you persevere in your love to me. your love to me will be in keeping my commandments: even as I love my father by keeping his commandments.
but, alas, the time is coming, yea, is already come, when ye shall be dispers'd every one to his own retreat, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the father is with me.
they brought him first to Annas; for he was father-in-law to Caiaphas, who was the high priest at that time:
Simon Peter followed Jesus, with another disciple, who being known to the high priest, was admitted into his palace at the same time with Jesus,
Pilate then said to them, take him your selves, and judge him according to your law. but the Jews said to him, it is not lawful for us to put any man to death.
upon this Pilate said to him, you are then a king? Jesus answered, you say right, for I am a king. to this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, to persuade mankind of the truth. every one that loves truth is observant of my directions.
hail king of the Jews! said they, and struck him on the cheeks.
upon this, Pilate propos'd to release him: but the Jews cried out, if you let this man go, you are not Cesar's friend: he that sets up for king, opposes Cesar.
therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.
for Moses said to the fathers, "a prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you, of your brethren, like unto me; observe whatever he shall say to you. and whoever he be that will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people." read more. afterwards Samuel and all that prophesied after him, have likewise foretold these times. ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, when he said to Abraham, "all the families of the earth shall be blessed in your posterity."
and he said, there I see the heavens open, and the son of man standing on the right hand of God.
Philip being arrived at Samaria, preached Christ to them.
however Saul still gain'd ground, and confounded the Jews of Damascus, proving that Jesus was the Messias.
how Jesus of Nazareth divinely inspired by the holy spirit, and with miraculous power, went about doing good, and healing all that were under the oppression of the devil: because God was with him.
how Jesus of Nazareth divinely inspired by the holy spirit, and with miraculous power, went about doing good, and healing all that were under the oppression of the devil: because God was with him.
explaining them, and setting it to view, that the Messiah was to suffer and rise again from the dead: and that Jesus, whom he denounc'd to them, was that very Messiah.
therefore we are buried with him by being plunged into a sort of death: that as Christ was raised up from the dead into a state of glory with the father, even so we also should proceed to a new state of life. for if we resembled him with regard to death, certainly we shall likewise do so with regard to his resurrection: read more. considering this, that our vicious passions were crucified with him, that the body of sin being destroyed, we might not any longer be vassals to sin. for by its being dead, we are set free from sin. since then we died with Christ, we are persuaded that we shall also live with him: knowing that Christ being raised from the dead, is to die no more; death hath no more dominion over him. for as to his death, he died upon the account of sin once for all; but as to his being alive, he lives to the glory of God for ever. in like manner consider your selves as dead to sin; but alive to God, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
for consider, brethren, that not many worldly wise, not many men of power, not many men of birth are among you that are called. but God hath chosen those who are foolish in the opinion of the world, to confound the wise; and the weak men of the world to confound the mighty: read more. those who were looked upon by the world as vile, as despicable, as nothing, these has God chosen to reduce their sufficiency to nothing. that no man might glory before God; for from him it is that ye believe in Christ Jesus, whom God has made to us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: that, according as it is written, "he that glorieth, should glory in the Lord."
then they too who died christians, are entirely lost.
and so it is written, the first man Adam was made an animating soul, the last Adam was made a vivifying spirit.
the first man was formed from the dust of the earth: the second man was from heaven.
for the same temper of mind ought to be in you as was in Christ Jesus: who tho' he was the image of God, did not affect to appear with divine majesty, but divested himself thereof, read more. by assuming the form of a servant: being made in the likeness of men, and his whole exterior showing nothing more than a meer man, he abased himself, and carried his submission so far as to die, even the death of the cross. wherefore God has highly exalted and given him a name, which is above every name; that at the name of Jesus both angels and men, the living and the dead, should pay their adorations, and that every nation should confess that Jesus Christ is the Lord, to the glory of God the father.
who by the instigation of satan will make his parade with various arts, with fallacious signs and prodigies,
not an high priest who is incapable of compassionating our miseries; since he was exposed to the same trials as we are, sin only excepted. let
Wherefore Christ himself did not assume the character of an high priest; but it was confirm'd by him that said, "thou art my son, to-day have I begotten thee."
this was Jesus, who while he was in a mortal body, having offered up prayers and supplications, with strong cries, and with tears, to him that was able to save him from that death, was heard so as to be delivered from his fear;
so that he has an uninterrupted power to save those, that come to God by him, because he ever lives to make intercession for them. and indeed we wanted an high priest of such a character, one that is holy, innocent, undefiled, one that is separated from sinful men, and exalted above the heavens; one who was under no necessity,
wherefore at his appearing in publick, he saith, "sacrifice and offering thou wouldst not, but a body hast thou prepared me:
wherefore at his appearing in publick, he saith, "sacrifice and offering thou wouldst not, but a body hast thou prepared me:
then said I, lo I come, as in the volume of the book it is written of me, to do thy will, O God."
for by one single oblation he has purified for ever those that are sanctified.
for Jesus Christ himself has already suffer'd for our sins, the innocent for the guilty, to bring us to God: who, tho' he died with respect to his body, was rais'd to life by that spirit,
Since then Christ has with respect to his mortal nature died for us, arm yourselves with this reflection, that he, who is dead with respect to sensuality, has renounced sin; so that for the future he does not pass the rest of this life in gratifying his sensual passions, but in conformity to the divine precepts.
for what the world is so full of, sensuality, avarice, and pride, is not deriv'd from the creator, but is the offspring of a vicious world. and the world is passing away, with all its vices: but he that obeys the divine will, shall enjoy a life of immortality.
The seventh angel sounded, and there were great voices in heaven, crying, "the kingdom of this world is become the kingdom of our Lord, and of his Christ, and he shall reign for ever and ever."
The seventh angel sounded, and there were great voices in heaven, crying, "the kingdom of this world is become the kingdom of our Lord, and of his Christ, and he shall reign for ever and ever."
then I heard a loud voice, which cry'd in the heaven, "the time of salvation, and power, the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ are now come: for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, is cast down.
then I fell at his seet to worship him: but he said to me, "forbear: I am the servant of God, as you and your brethren are, that bear testimony to Jesus: worship God: for to give testimony to Jesus, is the very design of prophecy."
"I Jesus have sent my angel to testify these things to the churches. I am the shoot, the offspring of David, the splendid morning star.
Hastings
There is no historical task which is more important than to set forth the life and teaching of Jesus Christ, and none to which it is so difficult to do justice. The importance of the theme is sufficiently attested by the fact that it is felt to be His due to reckon a new era from the date of His birth. From the point of view of Christian faith there is nothing in time worthy to be set beside the deeds and the words of One who is adored as God manifest in the flesh, and the Saviour of the world. In the perspective of universal history. His influence ranks with Greek culture and Roman law as one of the three most valuable elements in the heritage from the ancient world, while it surpasses these other factors in the spiritual quality of its effects. On the other hand, the superlative task has its peculiar difficulties. It is quite certain that a modern European makes many mistakes when trying to reproduce the conditions of the distant province of Oriental antiquity in which Jesus lived. The literary documents, moreover, are of no great compass, and are reticent or obscure in regard to many matters which are of capital interest to the modern biographer. And when erudition has done its best with the primary and auxiliary sources, the historian has still to put the heart-searching question whether he possesses the qualifications that would enable him to understand the character, the experience, and the purpose of Jesus. 'He who would worthily write the Life of Jesus Christ must have a pen dipped in the imaginative sympathy of a poet, in the prophet's fire, in the artist's charm and grace, and in the reverence and purity of the saint' (Stewart, The Life of Christ, 1906, p. vi.).
1. The Literary Sources
(A) Canonical
(1) The Gospels and their purpose.
See Verses Found in Dictionary
Salmon the father of Booz by Rachab, and Booz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse. And Jesse the father of David the king, and David had Solomon by her that had been the wife of Urias.
And Jesse the father of David the king, and David had Solomon by her that had been the wife of Urias. Solomon was the father of Roboam, Roboam the father of Abia, Abia the father of Asa. read more. Asa the father of Josaphat, Josaphat the father of Joram, Joram the father of Ozias. Ozias the father of Joatham, Joatham the father of Achaz, Achaz the father of Ezekias. Ezekias the father of Manasses, Manasses the father of Amon, Amon the father of Josias. Josias the father of Jechonias and his brethren, about the time when the Jews were carried away to Babylon. and after their transmigration to Babylon, Jechonias was father of Salathiel, Salathiel father of Zorobabel. Zorobabel father of Abiud, Abiud father of Eliakim, Eliakim father of Azor. And Azor father of Sadoc, Sadoc father of Achim, Achim father of Eliud. Eliud father of Eleazar, Eleazar father of Matthan, Matthan father of Jacob. Jacob father of Joseph the husband of Mary of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. So all the generations from Abraham to David, are fourteen generations: and from David to the Babylonian transmigration, are fourteen generations: and from the Babylonian transmigration unto Christ, are fourteen generations. Now the manner of Christ's birth was this: his mother Mary being promised in marriage to Joseph, before they came together, she became pregnant by the holy Spirit.
Now the manner of Christ's birth was this: his mother Mary being promised in marriage to Joseph, before they came together, she became pregnant by the holy Spirit. but Joseph her husband, being a good-natur'd man, and unwilling to expose her to publick shame, he designed to put her away privately.
but Joseph her husband, being a good-natur'd man, and unwilling to expose her to publick shame, he designed to put her away privately. but while he was revolving this in his mind, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, Joseph, the off-spring of David, don't make any difficulty of taking Mary for thy wife: for her pregnancy is from the holy Spirit.
but while he was revolving this in his mind, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, Joseph, the off-spring of David, don't make any difficulty of taking Mary for thy wife: for her pregnancy is from the holy Spirit. and she shall be deliver'd of a son, to whom you shall give the name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.
and she shall be deliver'd of a son, to whom you shall give the name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. now by these events, that divine prediction of the Prophet had its full accomplishment, when he said, "Behold,
now by these events, that divine prediction of the Prophet had its full accomplishment, when he said, "Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel," that is to say, God our Saviour.
a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel," that is to say, God our Saviour. Then Joseph being awak'd out of sleep, did as the angel of the Lord directed, and took his wife home,
When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the reign of king Herod, certain eastern Magi came to Jerusalem, with this enquiry, Where is this king of the Jews who is now born? for we have seen his rising star, and are come to pay him homage. read more. when king Herod heard these things, he was alarm'd, and all Jerusalem with him. and having assembled all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he enquired of them where Christ was to be born. they answered him, in Bethlehem of Judea: for these are the words of the prophet; "And thou Bethlehem in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor that shall rule my people Israel." Then Herod having privately sent for the Magi, enquired of them the exact time when the star appeared. and he sent them to Bethlehem, go, said he, make an exact enquiry about the young child, and when ye have found him, let me know it, that I too may come and pay my adorations to him. in obedience to the king, they departed, and immediately the star which they saw in the east, moved on before them, till it came to the place where the infant was, and then stood still. when they observ'd this of the star, they were extreamly well pleas'd. and entring into the house, they saw the infant with Mary his mother, and prostrating themselves, they worshipped him: then opening their treasures, they presented him with gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. but being divinely warn'd in a dream, not to go back to Herod, they returned into their own country another way. When they were gone, an angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, take the infant and his mother, flee into Egypt, and don't stir thence till I order you, for Herod will endeavour to have the child destroy'd. Joseph therefore arose, took the infant and his mother by night, and fled into Egypt: where he stay'd till the death of Herod: so that what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, saying, "Out of Egypt have I called my son," was then fulfill'd. Then Herod perceiving he was abused by the Magi, was full of indignation, and sent a detachment who slew all the children that were in Bethlehem and its territory, being under the age of two years, according to the limited time he had learnt of the Magi. Then was fulfilled that passage of Jeremy the prophet, "In Rama was a cry heard, weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not."
Now while he was talking to the people, his mother and his brothers stood without, desiring to speak with him. then some body said to him, your mother and your brothers are without, and desire to speak with you. read more. but Jesus answered the man that told him, who is my mother? and who are my brothers? and holding out his hand towards his disciples, see there, said he, my mother, and my brothers. for whosoever shall do the will of my father, who is in heaven, he is my brother, and sister, and mother.
and Jesus came, and said to them, all power has been given me in heaven and in earth. go and instruct all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father, and of the son, and of the holy ghost: read more. teaching them to observe every thing which I have enjoin'd you: and be assured I shall be always with you to the end of the world.
The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ the son of God.
when his relations heard of this, they went to his relief, for it was said, he fainted away.
In the mean time his brothers and his mother came there, and not being able to get within hearing,
but who, said he, do you take me to be? Peter answered, you are the Messiah:
but Jesus remain'd silent, and gave no answer. then the high priest asked him again, and said to him, art thou the Christ, the son of the most High? and Jesus answered, I AM. and ye shall see the son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
and the inscription of the charge against him was thus express'd, THE KING OF THE JEWS.
In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, to a virgin contracted to a man; whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. and the virgin's name was Mary. read more. the angel, upon his arrival, said to her; "Hail, favorite of heaven, the Lord is with thee: thou happiest of thy sex." Mary was surpriz'd at the voice of such an appearance, and wonder'd what the meaning of this salutation should be. but the angel said to her, "Mary, be not afraid: for you are the object of divine favour. you shall be now pregnant, and be delivered of a son, whom you shall name JESUS. he shall be great, he shall be the son of the most high. the Lord God shall give him the throne of his father David. he shall reign over the house of Jacob, and of his kingdom there shall be no end." Then said Mary to the angel, what shall this be without any intercourse with man? the angel answered her, "the holy spirit shall descend upon thee, and the power of the most high shall over-shadow thee: wherefore thy holy offspring shall be called the son of God. even your cousin Elizabeth, as old as she is, is become pregnant with a son: she, who was stiled barren, is now in her sixth month; for nothing is impossible to God." then said Mary, "behold the servant of the Lord, be it unto me according to thy word." upon which the angel disappeared. Soon after this, Mary departed, and made an expeditious journey to a city of Juda, in the mountains: where entring into the house of Zacharias, she saluted Elizabeth. no sooner had Elizabeth heard the salutation of Mary, but the babe leap'd within her: and Elizabeth divinely inspired, broke out into this acclamation. "Blessed mother of the most blessed offspring! what an honour is this, that I should be visited by the mother of our Lord! no sooner did the sound of your salutation strike mine ear, than the babe leap'd within me for joy. blessed is she that has believed; for what she has heard from the Lord, shall be accomplished." Then Mary said, "my soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my saviour, for he hath regarded the low estate of his servant: and future ages shall proclaim me blessed. the almighty hath distinguish'd me by the greatest marks of favour: his name be for ever reverenc'd. his mercy is on them that fear him, from generation to generation. he hath displayed the strength of his arm, and has confounded the proud by the devices of their hearts. he has cast down princes from their thrones, and exalted those of low degree, the needy he has furnished with plentiful enjoyments, and the rich he has reduced to poverty. he has taken Israel his servant into his protection, in pursuance of the mercy, which he promised to our forefathers, to Abraham, and to his posterity for ever." Now Mary stay'd about three months with Elizabeth, and then return'd to her own house. When Elizabeth had gone her full time, she was delivered of a son. her neighbours and her relations having heard how the Lord had heap'd his favours upon her, they congratulated with her: and on the eighth day were present at the circumcision of the child. but upon their proposing to call him by his father's name, Zacharias: his mother objected to it, and said, no, he shall be called John. they answered her, there is not any of your family of that name. they therefore ask'd his father to signify how he would have him call'd. then he made signs for a writing-book, and writ these words, "his name is John:" at which they were all surprized. immediately he had the use of his speech: and he uttered himself in praises to God. All the neighbourhood were struck with reverence, and the rumour of these events ran thro' all the mountains of Judea, and made an impression upon all that heard of them. what a child will this be? said they, for the divine influence does attend him. Then Zacharias his father, inspired by the holy spirit, vented his divine enthusiasm in these words. "blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he hath regarded and wrought a deliverance for his people: he hath rais'd up a powerful saviour for us, in the family of his servant David, according to the antient promise he made by the mouth of the holy prophets, to deliver us from our enemies, and from the power of all that hate us: to show regard to our forefathers, in performing his holy covenant, the oath which he made to our father Abraham, to grant us this favour, that we should be delivered from the power of our enemies, and serve him with security, in the sincere practice of holiness and justice, all our days. and you, dear babe, you shall be the prophet of the most high: for you shall go before the Lord, in order to prepare his way, by acquainting his people how they may be saved by the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun has visited us from on high, to enlighten those, who are in darkness, and in the shadow of death, and to direct our steps into the ways of peace." Now the child continued to grow, and greatly improv'd in sense; and was in the desarts till the time, when he was to be manifested to Israel.
At that time, Cesar Augustus published an edict, to make a register of the Roman empire. (this register was made before Quirinus was prefect of Syria.)
In that country there were shepherds lying in the open fields, taking their turns to watch the stock in the night; when all of a sudden an angel of the Lord appear'd to them, and a heavenly light shone about them, at which they were greatly affrighted. read more. but the angel said to them, be not afraid, I am only come to bring you great news, which will be matter of joy to you and to the whole world. for the Lord Messiah your saviour is this day born, in the city of David: and by this sign shall you know him; you will find the babe swathed, lying in a manger. All of a sudden an army of celestial beings join'd the angel, singing praises to God, and saying, "glory to God in the heavens, and to men on earth felicity in the divine favour." As soon as the angels retired back to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, let us go to Bethlehem, to see the fact, of which the Lord inform'd us. accordingly they hasted thither, and found Mary and Joseph with the babe lying in the manger. when they had seen him, they divulged what the angel had told them concerning this child. and all that heard of it, were surprized at what the shepherds related. but Mary considered these things very attentively, and weigh'd every circumstance in her mind, while the shepherds return'd, glorifying and praising God, for having heard and seen every thing exactly as the angel inform'd them. The eighth day, when the child was to be circumcised, being come, he was named Jesus, the name, which the angel had given before his conception. At length the time appointed by the law of Moses for the purification of women being accomplish'd, they carried the infant to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, according as his law directs, "every first born male-child shall be consecrated to the Lord."
In the fifteenth year of the emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea; Herod tetrarch of Gallilee: Philip his brother tetrarch of Iturea and Trachonitis: and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene:
In the fifteenth year of the emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea; Herod tetrarch of Gallilee: Philip his brother tetrarch of Iturea and Trachonitis: and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene:
Jesus was then about thirty years of age, being, as was suppos'd, the son of Joseph,
being come to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; according to his custom, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath-day, and standing up to read, they delivered to him the book of the prophet Esaias, and upon opening the book, that passage occurr'd, where it is written, read more. "the spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor, he hath sent me to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to proclaim the favourable year of the Lord." then he closed the book, and returning it to the minister, he sat down: and as the eyes of the whole synagogue were fix'd with attention upon him, he undertook to show them, how the passage they had heard, was actually then accomplished. They all applauded him, and were surprized, that what he said, was delivered with so much grace. but they objected, is not this the son of Joseph? upon which he said, no doubt you will urge me with this proverb, "physician heal thy self. what we have heard you perform'd in Capernaum, do likewise here in your own country." but in truth, added he, no prophet was ever well received in his own country. I assure you, though there were many widows in Israel, when the heaven had furnished no rain for three years and a half, and a great famine spread through all the land: yet to none of them was Elias sent, except to one widow in Sarepta, a city of Sidon. and there were many lepers in the time of Elisha the prophet: yet none of them obtain'd a cure, except Naaman the Syrian. upon hearing this, the whole synagogue were incensed against him. and breaking up the assembly, they drove him out of the city, to the precipice of the hill, upon which it was built, in order to throw him headlong down. but he pass'd thro' the midst of them and went away.
Now the time of his assumption drawing nigh, he was fix'd in his resolution to go to Jerusalem:
After this the Lord nominated seventy disciples more, and sent them before by two and two, into all the cities, and towns, where he himself design'd to go. and he said to them, the harvest indeed is great, but the labourers are few: intreat therefore the Lord of the harvest to send forth labourers into his harvest. read more. go then: I send you as lambs among wolves. carry neither purse, nor bag, nor shoes; neither salute any man by the way. at your entrance into any house, first say, prosperity be to this family. if any be there, who deserve your benediction, it shall have its effect upon them; otherwise, it shall redound to your own advantage. continue in the same house, and eat and drink whatever it affords: for a labourer deserves his wages: therefore don't shift from family to family. when you come to any city, where they receive you, eat without scruple, whatever food is set before you, and heal the sick you find there. tell the inhabitants the kingdom of God is drawing nigh unto them. but when you enter into any city, and they refuse to entertain you, go through the streets, and cry, "we shake off the dust, that sticks to our feet, against you: but take notice, the kingdom of God has been near you." I declare unto you, that the people of Sodom shall be treated with less severity in the day of judgment, than that city. wo unto thee Chorazin; wo unto thee Bethsaida: for if the miracles, which have been wrought among you, had been wrought in Tyre and Sidon, they would long since have lain repenting in sackcloth and ashes. therefore Tyre and Sidon shall be treated with less severity in the day of judgment, than you. and thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to the sky, shall be plung'd into an abyss. he that adheres to you, adheres to me; he that rejects you, rejects me: and he that rejects me, rejecteth him that sent me. At length the seventy return'd with great joy, saying, Lord, even the demons have been made subject to us by virtue of your name. upon which he said to them, I beheld satan falling, like lightning, from heaven. I have authoriz'd you to trample upon serpents and scorpions, and triumph over all the power of the enemy; so that nothing shall be capable of doing you any mischief. however, let not this be the matter of your rejoicing, that the spirits are subject to you: but rejoice, that you have a title to the joys of heaven.
is no body return'd to glorify God, but this alien only? and he said to him, rise, go your way, your faith has sav'd you.
I tell you this man went home approv'd as just, and not the other. for whoever exalteth himself shall be humbled, and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
as he drew nigh, he beheld the city, and bewail'd its fate, in these words, "O that thou hadst consider'd, at least in this very day, the opportunity you had of being happy! but now alas! it is vanish'd from your eyes." read more. for the time will shortly come, when your enemies shall open their trenches before thee, hem you in, and closely besiege you: they will level you to the ground, extirpate your inhabitants, and bury your buildings in ruins: because you have not consider'd the overtures I made you.
In the beginning was the Logos, and the Logos was with God, and the Logos was God.
The Logos became incarnate, and had his tabernacle among us, being full of grace and truth; and we contemplated his glory, such glory as the Monogenes derived from the father.
to this said the Jews, forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days?
he that relates this, was an eye-witness of it, and his relation is true: and he is so assured, what he says is true, that you may rely upon it.
This is the disciple who testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true.
with relation to his son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was of the lineage of David as to his body,
but if she has separated herself, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.
For I received it from the Lord, and I inform'd you of it: that the Lord Jesus, the night in which he was betrayed, took bread:
not an high priest who is incapable of compassionating our miseries; since he was exposed to the same trials as we are, sin only excepted. let
this was Jesus, who while he was in a mortal body, having offered up prayers and supplications, with strong cries, and with tears, to him that was able to save him from that death, was heard so as to be delivered from his fear;
for he received this honourable and glorious testimony from his father, when the voice broke out from the magnificent splendor, in these words, "this is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased."
Smith
Je'sus Christ.
The life and character of Jesus Christ, says Dr. Schaff, "is the holy of holies in the history of the world."
1. NAME. --The name Jesus signifies saviour. It is the Greek form of JEHOSHUA (Joshua). The name Christ signifies anointed. Jesus was both priest and king. Among the Jews priests were anointed, as their inauguration to their office.
See Jehoshua
In the New Testament the name Christ is used as equivalent to the Hebrew Messiah (anointed),
Joh 1:41
the name given to the long-promised Prophet and King whom the Jews had been taught by their prophets to expect.
The use of this name, as applied to the Lord, has always a reference to the promises of the prophets. The name of Jesus is the proper name of our Lord, and that of Christ is added to identify him with the promised Messiah. Other names are sometimes added to the names Jesus Christ, thus, "Lord," "a king," "King of Israel," "Emmanuel," "Son of David," "chosen of God." II. BIRTH. --Jesus Christ was born of the Virgin Mary, God being his father, at Bethlehem of Judea, six miles south of Jerusalem. The date of his birth was most probably in December, B.C. 5, four years before the era from which we count our years. That era was not used till several hundred years after Christ. The calculations were made by a learned monk, Dionysius Exiguus, in the sixth century, who made an error of four years; so that to get the exact date from the birth of Christ we must add four years to our usual dates; i.e. A.D. 1882 is really 1886 years since the birth of Christ. It is also more than likely that our usual date for Christmas, December 25, is not far from the real date of Christ's birth. Since the 25th of December comes when the longest night gives way to the returning sun on his triumphant march, it makes an appropriate anniversary to make the birth of him who appeared in the darkest night of error and sin as the true Light of the world. At the time of Christ's birth Augustus Caesar was emperor of Rome, and Herod the Great king of Judea, but subject of Rome. God's providence had prepared the world for the coming of Christ, and this was the fittest time in all its history.
1. All the world was subject to one government, so that the apostles could travel everywhere: the door of every land was open for the gospel.
2. The world was at peace, so that the gospel could have free course.
3. The Greek language was spoken everywhere with their other languages.
4. The Jews were scattered everywhere with synagogues and Bibles. III. EARLY LIFE. --Jesus, having a manger at Bethlehem for his cradle, received a visit of adoration from the three wise men of the East. At forty days old he was taken to the temple at Jerusalem; and returning to Bethlehem, was soon taken to Egypt to escape Herod's massacre of the infants there. After a few months stay there, Herod having died in April, B.C. 4, the family returned to their Nazareth home, where Jesus lived till he was about thirty years old, subject to his parent, and increasing "in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man." The only incident recorded of his early life is his going up to Jerusalem to attend the passover when he was twelve years old, and his conversation with the learned men in the temple. But we can understand the childhood and youth of Jesus better when we remember the surrounding influences amid which he grew.
1. The natural scenery was rugged and mountainous, but full of beauty. He breathed the pure air. He lived in a village, not in a city.
2. The Roman dominion was irksome and galling. The people of God were subject to a foreign yoke. The taxes were heavy. Roman soldiers, laws, money, every reminded them of their subjection, when they ought to be free and themselves the rulers of the world. When Jesus was ten years old, there was a great insurrection,
in Galilee. He who was to be King of the Jews heard and felt all this.
3. The Jewish hopes of a Redeemer, of throwing off their bondage, of becoming the glorious nation promised in the prophet, were in the very air he breathed. The conversation at home and in the streets was full of them.
4. Within his view, and his boyish excursions, were many remarkable historic places, --rivers, hills, cities, plains, --that would keep in mind the history of his people and God's dealings with them.
5. His school training. Mr. Deutsch, in the Quarterly Review, says, "Eighty years before Christ, schools flourished throughout the length and the breadth of the land: education had been made compulsory. While there is not a single term for 'school' to be found before the captivity, there were by that time about a dozen in common usage. Here are a few of the innumerable popular sayings of the period: 'Jerusalem was destroyed because the instruction of the young was neglected.' 'The world is only saved by the breath of the school-children.' 'Even for the rebuilding of the temple the schools must not be interrupted.'"
6. His home training. According to Ellicott, the stages of Jewish childhood were marked as follows: "At three the boy was weaned, and word for the first time the fringed or tasselled garment prescribed by
and Deut 22:12 His education began at first under the mother's care. At five he was to learn the law, at first by extracts written on scrolls of the more important passages, the Shema or creed of
De 2:4
the Hallel or festival psalms, Psal 114, 118, 136, and by catechetical teaching in school. At twelve he became more directly responsible for his obedience of the law; and on the day when he attained the age of thirteen, put on for the first time the phylacteries which were worn at the recital of his daily prayer." In addition to this, Jesus no doubt learned the carpenter's trade of his reputed father Joseph, and, as Joseph probably died before Jesus began his public ministry, he may have contributed to the support of his mother. (IV. PUBLIC MINISTRY. --All the leading events recorded of Jesus' life are given at the end of this volume in the Chronological Chart and in the Chronological Table of the life of Christ; so that here will be given only a general survey. Jesus began to enter upon his ministry when he was "about thirty years old;" that is, he was not very far from thirty, older or younger. He is regarded as nearly thirty-one by Andrews (in the tables of chronology referred to above) and by most others. Having been baptized by John early in the winter of 26-27, he spent the larger portion of his year in Judea and about the lower Jordan, till in December he went northward to Galilee through Samaria. The next year and a half, from December, A.D. 27, to October or November, A.D. 29, was spent in Galilee and norther Palestine, chiefly in the vicinity of the Sea of Galilee. In November, 29, Jesus made his final departure from Galilee, and the rest of his ministry was in Judea and Perea, beyond Jordan, till his crucifixion, April 7, A.D. 30. After three days he proved his divinity by rising from the dead; and after appearing on eleven different occasions to his disciples during forty days, he finally ascended to heaven, where he is the living, ever present, all-powerful Saviour of his people. Jesus Christ, being both human and divine, is fitted to be the true Saviour of men. In this, as in every action and character, he is shown to be "the wisdom and power of God unto salvation." As human, he reaches down to our natures, sympathizes with us, shows us that God knows all our feelings and weaknesses and sorrows and sins, brings God near to us, who otherwise could not realize the Infinite and Eternal as a father and friend. He is divine, in order that he may be an all-powerful, all-loving Saviour, able and willing to defend us from every enemy, to subdue all temptations, to deliver from all sin, and to bring each of his people, and the whole Church, into complete and final victory. Jesus Christ is the centre of the world's history, as he is the centre of the Bible. --ED.)
See Verses Found in Dictionary
art thou he that was to come, or must we expect another?
the first he met was his own brother Simon, to whom he said, "we have found the Messias," that is to say, the Christ.
after this man, Judas of Galilee appear'd, at the time of the registry, and seduc'd many people: he also perished, and all his followers were dispersed.
upon which Paul said, John indeed administer'd the baptism of repentance, but with this admonition, that they should believe in him, who was to come after, that is, in Jesus the Messias.
Watsons
JESUS CHRIST, the son of God, the Messiah, and Saviour of the world, the first and principal object of the prophecies, prefigured and promised in the Old Testament, expected and desired by the patriarchs; the hope of the Gentiles; the glory, salvation, and consolation of Christians. The name Jesus, or, as the Hebrews pronounce it, ??????, Jehoshua or Joshua, '??????, signifies, he who shall save. No one ever bore this name with so much justice, nor so perfectly fulfilled the signification of it, as Jesus Christ, who saves even from sin and hell, and hath merited heaven for us by the price of his blood. It is not necessary here to narrate the history of our Saviour's life, which can no where be read with advantage except in the writings of the four evangelists; but there are several general views which require to be noticed under this article.
1. Jesus of Nazareth was the Christ or Messiah promised under the Old Testament. That he professed himself to be that Messiah to whom all the prophets gave witness, and who was, in fact, at the time of his appearing, expected by the Jews; and that he was received under that character by his disciples, and by all Christians ever since, is certain. And if the Old Testament Scriptures afford sufficiently definite marks by which the long announced Christ should be infallibly known at his advent, and these presignations are found realized in our Lord, then is the truth of his pretensions established. From the books of the Old Testament we learn that the Messiah was to authenticate his claim by miracles; and in those predictions respecting him, so many circumstances are recorded, that they could meet only in one person; and so, if they are accomplished in him, they leave no room for doubt, as far as the evidence of prophecy is deemed conclusive. As to MIRACLES, we refer to that article; here only observing, that if the miraculous works wrought by Christ were really done, they prove his mission, because, from their nature, and having been wrought to confirm his claim to be the Messiah, they necessarily imply a divine attestation. With respect to PROPHECY, the principles under which its evidence must be regarded as conclusive will be given under that head; and here therefore it will only be necessary to show the completion of the prophecies of the sacred books of the Jews relative to the Messiah in one person, and that person the founder of the Christian religion.
The time of the Messiah's appearance in the world, as predicted in the Old Testament, is defined, says Keith, by a number of concurring circumstances, which fix it to the very date of the advent of Christ. The last blessing of Jacob to his sons, when he commanded them to gather themselves together that he might tell them what should befall them in the last days, contains this prediction concerning Judah: "The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be," Ge 49:10, The date fixed by this prophecy for the coming of Shiloh, or the Saviour, was not to exceed the time during which the descendants of Judah were to continue a united people, while a king should reign among them, while they should be governed by their own laws, and while their judges should be from among their brethren. The prophecy of Malachi adds another standard for measuring the time: "Behold, I send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me; and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall come suddenly to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the Lord of hosts," Mal 3:1. No words can be more expressive of the coming of the promised Messiah; and they as clearly imply his appearance in the second temple before it should be destroyed. In regard to the advent of the Messiah before the destruction of the second temple, the words of Haggai are remarkably explicit: "The desire of all nations shall come, and I will fill this house with glory, saith the Lord of Hosts. The glory of this latter house shall be greater than that of the former, and in this place will I give peace," Hag 2:7. The Saviour was thus to appear, according to the prophecies of the Old Testament, during the time of the continuance of the kingdom of Judah, previous to the demolition of the temple, and immediately subsequent to the next prophet. But the time is rendered yet more definite. In the prophecies of Daniel, the kingdom of the Messiah is not only foretold as commencing in the time of the fourth monarchy, or Roman empire, but the express number of years that were to precede his coming are plainly intimated: "Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people, and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sin, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the Most Holy. Know, therefore, and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem, unto Messiah the Prince, shall be seven weeks and threescore and two weeks," Da 9:24-25. Computation by weeks of years was common among the Jews, and every seventh was the sabbatical year; seventy weeks, thus amounted to four hundred and ninety years. In these words the prophet marks the very time, and uses the very name of Messiah, the Prince; so entirety is all ambiguity done away. The plainest inference may be drawn from these prophecies. All of them, while, in every respect, they presuppose the most perfect knowledge of futurity; while they were unquestionably delivered and publicly known for ages previous to the time to which they referred; and while they refer to different contingent and unconnected events, utterly undeterminable and inconceivable by all human sagacity; accord in perfect unison to a single precise period where all their different lines terminate at once,
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the people which sat in darkness, saw a great light: and to those who sat in the region and shadow of death, light is sprung up."