The Gospels: context and distinctive features of the accounts 1 study
The ministry of John the Baptist 1 study
The beginning of the ministry in Galilee 2 studies
From the second to the third Passover festival 2 studies
The last day up to the crucifixion 6 studies
- 7The Departure of Judas Iscariot
- 8The farewell prayer: Jesus the Messiah prays for himself
- 9The Presentation before the Former High Priest Anna
- 10The Apostles Peter and John in the courtyard of Caiaphas’ house
- 11The Denial of the Apostle Peter, Accompanied by the Apostle John
Reliability of the Scriptures and other doctrinal topics 1 study
The resurrection and the various appearances 1 study
Contradictions 2 studies
Peter's ministry 6 studies
- 17The healing of the lame man
- 18The arrest of Peter and John
- 19Peter and John in prison
- 20The defense of Peter and John before the Sanhedrin
- 21The deliberation and sentence of the Sanhedrin
Miracles 1 study
The Gospels: context and distinctive features of the accounts
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CHR006
The “next days” noted by John
The article analyzes the time markers in the Gospel of John to establish a chronology of the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, while seeking to harmonize these accounts with those of the Synoptics.
Daniel 9.24-27 (King James Version) :Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, 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 the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
The ministry of John the Baptist
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PER041
Jesus the Messiah’s conversation with Nicodemus
The conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus in Jerusalem, described in John 3, represents a crucial turning point towards a personal Christian spirituality, removed from Jewish rituals, with an emphasis on the inward relationship with God.
Acts 12.12 (King James Version) :And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
The beginning of the ministry in Galilee
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PER053
The king’s officer at Cana in Galilee
Pericope 53 recounts the miracle Jesus performed at Cana in Galilee for a royal officer who came from Capernaum because of his sick son (John 4:46–54). Dated to February–March 31, this episode is the second Johannine sign performed at Cana. The officer’s identity remains uncertain, but the author favours Roman origins, illustrating the universality of salvation in John’s theology. This man must not be confused with the centurion in pericope 110.
John 4.46-54 (King James Version) :So Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he made the water wine. And there was a certain nobleman, whose son was sick at Capernaum.When he heard that Jesus was come out of Judæa into Galilee, he went unto him, and besought him that he would come down, and heal his son: for he was at the point of death.Then said Jesus unto him, Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe.The nobleman saith unto him, Sir, come down ere my child die.Jesus saith unto him, Go thy way; thy son liveth. And the man believed the word that Jesus had spoken unto him, and he went his way.And as he was now going down, his servants met him, and told him, saying, Thy son liveth.Then enquired he of them the hour when he began to amend. And they said unto him, Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him.So the father knew that it was at the same hour, in the which Jesus said unto him, Thy son liveth: and himself believed, and his whole house.This is again the second miracle that Jesus did, when he was come out of Judæa into Galilee.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER054
Confirmation of the disciples’ calling
On the shores of the Sea of Galilee, around March 31, Jesus confirms the call of four fishermen: Simon Peter, Andrew, James and John. Unlike the first call at Bethany, he now invites them to leave everything behind and devote themselves exclusively to evangelism. Their immediate and total response reflects a trust built up over the months spent at his side. Matthew (4:18-22) and Mark (1:16-20) report this foundational episode of the Galilean ministry.
Mark 1.16-20 (King James Version) :Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him.And when he had gone a little further thence, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the ship mending their nets.And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
From the second to the third Passover festival
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PER069
The second Passover festival in Jerusalem
This article analyses Jesus' second Passover pilgrimage to Jerusalem, mentioned in John 5:1. Although John does not explicitly name Passover, the chronological context suggests this event. Jesus takes this opportunity to preach and debate with the religious authorities. The interactions take place in the Temple court at a time when pilgrims flock to Jerusalem, giving Jesus a diverse audience for his teaching.
John 5.1 (King James Version) :After this there was a feast of the Jews; and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER072
Testimonies confirming that of Jesus the Messiah
The article discusses the testimonies confirming that Jesus is the Messiah, notably those of John the Baptist and the divine miracles, in John's tradition. The setting is Jerusalem after Passover in March AD 31. Jesus criticises the religious authorities who do not recognise him and invokes Moses as a precursor. Some, such as Nicodemus, will convert.
John 8.1-11 (King James Version) :Jesus went unto the mount of Olives.And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them.And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst,They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act.Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not.So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
The last day up to the crucifixion
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PER315
The Departure of Judas Iscariot
The article explores the dramatic departure of Judas Iscariot during the last Passover meal, described essentially in the Gospel of John. This moment, steeped in symbolism, marks the progress of the redemptive drama leading to the arrest of Jesus, highlighting the complexity of Jesus' gesture of offering bread to Judas, at once an act of grace and of judgment.
John 13.26 (King James Version) :Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER325
The farewell prayer: Jesus the Messiah prays for himself
This article focuses on Jesus’ farewell prayer in the Gospel of John. Before his crucifixion, he prays aloud for his disciples according to the divine plan. Set in Jerusalem, the scene reveals the unity between Jesus and God, offering a solid testimony to strengthen the disciples’ faith. This prayer highlights Jesus’ awareness of the events to come and his commitment to his redemptive mission.
John 12.23 (King James Version) :And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER335
The Presentation before the Former High Priest Anna
The article explores Jesus’ appearance before Anna, the former high priest, explaining his lasting influence and the political stakes of the event. John provides these details to show the interconnection between religious and political interests in the trial of Jesus.
John 3.16-17 (King James Version) :For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER337
The Apostles Peter and John in the courtyard of Caiaphas’ house
This article recounts the dramatic scene of the apostles Peter and John following Jesus into the courtyard of Caiaphas, revealing their faithfulness and frailty at the heart of Jesus’ passion. The biblical references describe their attempt to stay close to Jesus despite the fear of repercussions. This moment symbolizes a key point of the Gospels, highlighting human nature in the face of the divine mission.
John 18.15-16 (King James Version) :And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple: that disciple was known unto the high priest, and went in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest.But Peter stood at the door without. Then went out that other disciple, which was known unto the high priest, and spake unto her that kept the door, and brought in Peter.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER340
The Denial of the Apostle Peter, Accompanied by the Apostle John
This article describes the denial of the Apostle Peter as recounted in the Gospels, when he denies his Master Jesus three times. The article highlights the precise circumstances of this event and explores the role of the apostle John. By setting the different versions of the Gospels side by side, this tragic moment is analyzed in depth within the historical and religious context of the time.
Mark 14.66-72 (King James Version) :And as Peter was beneath in the palace, there cometh one of the maids of the high priest:And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked upon him, and said, And thou also wast with Jesus of Nazareth.But he denied, saying, I know not, neither understand I what thou sayest. And he went out into the porch; and the cock crew.And a maid saw him again, and began to say to them that stood by, This is one of them.And he denied it again. And a little after, they that stood by said again to Peter, Surely thou art one of them: for thou art a Galilaean, and thy speech agreeth thereto.But he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom ye speak.And the second time the cock crew. And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus said unto him, Before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. And when he thought thereon, he wept.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER355
Jesus' dialogue with John and the women
At the foot of the cross, Jesus entrusts his mother Mary to John, the beloved disciple (John 19.25-27). As the only gospel to report this scene, John stresses the courageous presence of the women and of John at Golgotha. This dialogue reveals a twofold significance: human, as Jesus fulfills his filial responsibilities, and spiritual, as he establishes a new family founded on faith rather than blood. John obeys immediately, bearing witness to his faithfulness.
John 19.25-27 (King James Version) :Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
Reliability of the Scriptures and other doctrinal topics
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APO006
The Lamb and the Sealed Book
An exegetical study of Revelation 5, centered on the book sealed with seven seals that God holds in his hand and that only the Lamb — a figure of Christ — is worthy to open. The verse-by-verse analysis reveals a dramatic progression: from universal impossibility to the victory of the Lamb, inaugurating a mission of universal redemption and cosmic praise. The article continues from chapter 4 on the heavenly throne.
Exodus 33.20 (King James Version) :And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
The resurrection and the various appearances
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PER368
The Reaction of Peter and John
Pericope 368 examines the reaction of Peter and John after Mary Magdalene's testimony about the empty tomb. The two apostles run to the sepulchre, discover the burial linens and the folded face cloth, but do not yet grasp the reality of the resurrection. The article harmonizes the accounts of Luke 24.12 and John 20.3-12, distinguishes two successive announcements to the disciples, and highlights the initial lack of understanding in the face of Jesus' prophecies about his resurrection.
Matthew 28.2-4 (King James Version) :And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
Contradictions
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CTD044
What were Jesus' last words before his death?
This article examines the alleged contradiction between Luke and John concerning Jesus' last words. Luke mentions "Father, I commit my spirit", while John reports "It is finished". The analysis reveals that these statements are complementary, illustrating two dimensions of Jesus' death: the fulfilment of salvation and the entrusting of his spirit to the Father. The differences highlight each evangelist's unique theological perspective.
Psalms 31.5 (King James Version) :Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
CTD053
The first meeting of Mary Magdalene with the risen Jesus
The article examines whether the Gospels of Matthew and John contradict each other about the encounter of Mary Magdalene with the risen Jesus. In reality, they report two distinct episodes that complement each other, thus enriching the understanding of the resurrection.
Matthew 28.9 (King James Version) :And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
Peter's ministry
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ADA009
The healing of the lame man
The article examines the healing of the lame man in Acts 3.1-11 by Peter and John, placing the miracle in the context of the Jerusalem Temple. It discusses the importance of this healing as an act of witness and underlines the action of the Holy Spirit after Pentecost in the ministry of the apostles.
Exodus 29.39 (King James Version) :The one lamb thou shalt offer in the morning; and the other lamb thou shalt offer at even:King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
ADA011
The arrest of Peter and John
Covering Acts 4.1-4, this article examines the arrest of Peter and John by the religious authorities of Jerusalem. Following the miracles performed by the apostles, the Christian community experiences strong growth, prompting a cautious but firm reaction from the Jewish leaders toward this new faith that proclaims the resurrection, a central concept that particularly offends the Sadducees.
Acts 4.21 (King James Version) :So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
ADA012
Peter and John in prison
This article deals with the confrontation of Peter and John with the Sanhedrin. The apostles, arrested for preaching, must appear before this influential religious court. Facing the same authority that had condemned Jesus, Peter and John, supported by the Holy Spirit, courageously bear witness to their faith, illustrating the continuity of the message of Christ.
Acts 12.1-2 (King James Version) :Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church.And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
ADA013
The defense of Peter and John before the Sanhedrin
Peter and John present a bold defense before the Sanhedrin after a miracle that surprises the authorities. Filled with the Holy Spirit, they show an assurance that astonishes their judges. Luke stresses the fulfillment of Jesus' promises, and the irrefutability of the facts strengthens their testimony.
Matthew 16.16 (King James Version) :And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
ADA014
The deliberation and sentence of the Sanhedrin
Faced with the Sanhedrin's embarrassment after a miracle performed by Peter and John, the religious authorities forbid preaching in the name of Jesus, hoping that threats will undermine the Christian message. Peter and John respond by affirming that obedience to God comes first, illustrating a spiritual transformation sustained by the Holy Spirit.
Acts 4.8 (King James Version) :Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
ADA015
The testimony of Peter and John
The article deals with the return of Peter and John to the believers after their arrest by the Sanhedrin. Faced with threats, the assembly unites in prayer, affirming the sovereignty of God and asking for strength to proclaim the Gospel, expressing an unshakable faith.
Acts 4.23-31 (King James Version) :And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them.And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things?The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ.For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together,For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
Miracles
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MIR041
Resurrection of the Messiah Jesus
A comparative analysis of the four Gospel accounts of Jesus' resurrection (Mt 28.1-10; Mk 16.1-8; Lk 24.1-12; Jn 20.1-18). The article identifies shared features — the empty tomb, the presence of women, the angelic announcement — and divergences — the number of women and angels, reactions and chronology. The differences are explained through each evangelist's distinct theological perspectives, literary styles and audiences, highlighting the centrality of the resurrection to Christian faith.
Mark 16.1-8 (King James Version) :And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun.And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre?And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great.And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre; for they trembled and were amazed: neither said they any thing to any man; for they were afraid.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
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ANN047
Origins of the 12 apostles
The appendix ANN047 studies the origin of the twelve apostles on the basis of the four canonical lists (Matthew, Mark, Luke, Acts). It analyzes the convergences and divergences between…
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ANN064
The “next days” noted by John
The article examines the chronology of events surrounding Jesus' baptism in the Gospel of John, which differs from the synoptic Gospels. It seeks to harmonise these…