The ministry of John the Baptist 2 studies
The beginning of the ministry in Galilee 6 studies
- 3Confirmation of the disciples’ calling
- 4The First Miraculous Catch of Fish
- 5Healing of the apostle Peter’s mother-in-law
- 6Many healings in the evening
- 7The calling of another disciple, Matthew
From the second to the third Passover festival 1 study
The last day up to the crucifixion 3 studies
The resurrection and the various appearances 1 study
Healings 1 study
Contradictions 3 studies
Miracles 1 study
Word of a Friend 1 study
The ministry of John the Baptist
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PER033
The first disciples
The article examines Jesus’ first meeting with his earliest disciples, reported only by John. Andrew and John recognise Jesus as the Messiah and decide to follow him. A significant moment is Jesus’ transformation of Simon Peter’s identity, marking their commitment. This account offers a unique perspective absent from the Synoptic Gospels.
John 19.14 (King James Version) :And it was the preparation of the passover, and about the sixth hour: and he saith unto the Jews, Behold your King!King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER034
The encounter with Philip
PER034 recounts Jesus’ meeting with Philip, reported only by John (Jn 1:43–46), at Bethany beyond the Jordan on 6 October 29. Philip, formerly a disciple of John the Baptist like Andrew, John and Simon Peter, becomes Jesus’ fourth disciple. The article explores these disciples’ natural transition to the Messiah, with John the Baptist understanding himself as a forerunner rather than a rival teacher.
John 1.43-46 (King James Version) :The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and findeth Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me.Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
The beginning of the ministry in Galilee
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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 -
PER055
The First Miraculous Catch of Fish
Pericope 55 recounts the first miraculous catch of fish, reported only by Luke (Luke 5:1-11), at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee. After a fruitless night of fishing, Jesus tells Simon Peter to cast the nets, producing an extraordinary catch. This miraculous act, distinct from the one in John 21, seems to have enabled the disciples to provide for their families before leaving everything to follow Jesus, illustrating the divine providence that accompanies every calling.
John 21.1-14 (King James Version) :After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he himself.There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples.Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing.But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus.Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No.And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes.Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher’s coat unto him, (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea.And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,) dragging the net with fishes.As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught.Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land full of great fishes, an hundred and fifty and three: and for all there were so many, yet was not the net broken.Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord.Jesus then cometh, and taketh bread, and giveth them, and fish likewise.This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER058
Healing of the apostle Peter’s mother-in-law
This article examines Jesus' healing of Peter's mother-in-law in the town of Capernaum in Galilee. This miracle, reported in three Gospels, sheds light on Simon Peter's family and social setting, illustrating Jesus' power over illness and his consistency with Jewish religious practices.
Matthew 8.14-15 (King James Version) :And when Jesus was come into Peter’s house, he saw his wife’s mother laid, and sick of a fever.And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto them.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER059
Many healings in the evening
This article explains an episode in the Gospels in which Jesus heals several people in Capernaum, illustrating his divine power and authority. This event takes place after the Sabbath, drawing a crowd filled with admiration and intrigued by his deeds.
Luke 4.40-41 (King James Version) :Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them.And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak: for they knew that he was Christ.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER066
The calling of another disciple, Matthew
The article examines Jesus' calling of Matthew, highlighting his unique role among the disciples as the future writer of the Gospel. Matthew leaves his work as a tax collector to follow Christ after having known him previously, probably through John the Baptist. This calling is significant because it makes Matthew a crucial spokesman for the apostles.
Matthew 9.9 (King James Version) :And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER067
The feast given by Levi
Matthew, also called Levi, holds a feast to mark his calling by Jesus. This banquet highlights Jesus' inclusive mission, as he is welcomed by those who are often rejected. The event is recounted in the Synoptic Gospels and symbolises Matthew's impact on those around him.
Acts 1.13 (King James Version) :And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
From the second to the third Passover festival
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PER080
The choosing of the 12 Apostles
Jesus chooses twelve disciples from among his followers and gives them the title of apostles, a Greek term meaning ‘sent on a mission’. This choice, made after a night of prayer, corresponds to the number of Israel's tribes. The Twelve receive authority to heal and proclaim salvation, forming the foundation of the future Church. The article explores the term's etymology, Jesus' prayer, the question of his omniscience and the case of Judas Iscariot.
Luke 6.12-16 (King James Version) :And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles;Simon, (whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew,Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphæus, and Simon called Zelotes,And Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, which also was the traitor.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
The last day up to the crucifixion
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PER311
Judas Iscariot, the traitor, is identified
This article explores the betrayal of Judas Iscariot at the last Passover meal with Jesus. By analyzing the Gospel accounts, it highlights the disciples’ reactions and the theological implications of this crucial event in Jerusalem.
Mark 14.18-21 (King James Version) :And as they sat and did eat, Jesus said, Verily I say unto you, One of you which eateth with me shall betray me.And they began to be sorrowful, and to say unto him one by one, Is it I? and another said, Is it I?And he answered and said unto them, It is one of the twelve, that dippeth with me in the dish.The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had never been born.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER336
The transfer to the incumbent High Priest, Caiaphas
The article analyzes the transfer of Jesus to Caiaphas, highlighting the planning of the Jewish authorities to secure a swift condemnation, with a semblance of legality. Several appendices shed light on the historical context, and the Gospels describe the events in detail.
Mark 14.53 (King James Version) :And they led Jesus away to the high priest: and with him were assembled all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER341
The presentation to Pontius Pilate
Pericope PER341 reconstructs the presentation of Jesus before Pontius Pilate on Friday morning, around 6:45 a.m., after his nighttime condemnation by the Sanhedrin. Cross-referencing Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, the article analyzes the precise chronology, the role of Caiaphas, the refusal of the religious leaders to enter the Praetorium, and the dialogue between Jesus and Pilate, the only one empowered to pronounce a capital sentence.
John 18.28-38 (King James Version) :Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment: and it was early; and they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might eat the passover.Pilate then went out unto them, and said, What accusation bring ye against this man?They answered and said unto him, If he were not a malefactor, we would not have delivered him up unto thee.Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law. The Jews therefore said unto him, It is not lawful for us to put any man to death:That the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spake, signifying what death he should die.Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and called Jesus, and said unto him, Art thou the King of the Jews?Jesus answered him, Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others tell it thee of me?Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered thee unto me: what hast thou done?Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
The resurrection and the various appearances
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PER372
The Appearance of the Messiah Jesus to Peter
The appearance of the risen Jesus to Simon Peter is attested by Luke 24.34 and 1 Corinthians 15.3-5, but no evangelist describes its content. Set on Sunday, April 3, AD 33, after the appearances to the women and before that to the Emmaus disciples, this private encounter appears to be a personal reconciliation between Jesus and Peter after his denial. Peter would thus have been the first apostle to see the risen Lord.
Matthew 28.8-10 (King James Version) :And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.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.Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
Healings
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MIR039
Healing of Malchus
This article explores the accounts in Luke 22.50-51 and John 18.10, in which Simon Peter cuts off Malchus' ear during Jesus' arrest. Jesus rejects violence, accepts the divine will and heals Malchus, showing compassion and peace.
John 18.10 (King James Version) :Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest’s servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
Contradictions
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CTD012
Peter’s discovery?
Article CTD012 addresses an alleged contradiction between John 1.41 and Matthew 16.17 concerning Peter's discovery of Jesus' messianic identity. These two passages actually describe two complementary stages: an initial human announcement made by Andrew, followed by an inward divine revelation confirmed by Jesus himself. Peter's faith is a gradual journey, not a single event.
Matthew 16.13-17 (King James Version) :When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets.He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
CTD013
Jesus’ meeting with Peter?
Article CTD013 addresses a classic objection: where did Jesus first meet Peter and Andrew? Matthew places the encounter in Galilee, John on the banks of the Jordan. The article demonstrates that these are two distinct stages: an initial encounter in Judea (John), followed by a definitive call in Galilee (Matthew). The two accounts are complementary, not contradictory, and illustrate the gradual development of the disciples' calling.
Matthew 4.19 (King James Version) :And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
CTD036
The tenth apostle's name?
The article explores differences in the name of the tenth apostle in the Gospels. Thaddaeus (Matthew and Mark) and Judas son of James (Luke) refer to the same person, a common phenomenon arising from first-century naming practices.
Matthew 10.1-4 (King James Version) :And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;Philip, and Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus;Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
Miracles
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MIR003
First miraculous catch of fish
The passage in Luke 5.1-11 shows Jesus' authority and the calling of Simon Peter. After a miraculous catch of fish, Jesus invites Peter to become a fisher of men, illustrating the mission of proclaiming the Gospel.
Luke 5.1-11 (King James Version) :And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret,And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets.And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon’s, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship.Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken:And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
Word of a Friend
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PDA013
I have prayed for you, Jesus tells him!
The article discusses Luke 22:31-32, where Jesus tells Peter of a serious trial, promising his intercession. Satan seeks to destroy the disciples, but Jesus prays that their faith may not fail. This divine assurance endures for all believers, protecting them in their difficulties. Jesus’ intercession should inspire gratitude and faith in believers.
Romans 8.34 (King James Version) :Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
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ANN002
The Gospel of John
The Gospel according to John differs from the other three, known as the Synoptic Gospels, in its style and theological depth. Written by the apostle John, son of Zebedee,…
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ANN022
The choosing of the apostles
This article explores Jesus' choice of the twelve apostles, highlighting the symbolic importance of the number twelve. It details the careful selection of the apostles and the impact…