The ministry of John the Baptist 1 study
From the second to the third Passover festival 24 studies
- 2The testimony of the family of Jesus the Messiah
- 3The second Passover festival in Jerusalem
- 4The healing of the disabled man at the pool of Bethesda
- 5Preaching in Galilee continues
- 6The parables of the new cloth and the new wine
From the 3rd Passover to the start of the final week 3 studies
From the 2nd to the 3rd Passover Festival
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ANN029
The conflict between John’s and Jesus’ followers
This article addresses the tensions between the disciples of John the Baptist and those of Jesus, two central biblical figures, highlighting their ministries…
The ministry of John the Baptist
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PER039
The merchants driven out of the Temple
Pericope 39 studies Jesus’ cleansing of the Temple as reported by John (John 2:14–22). The author argues for two distinct events three years apart. The first takes place during the first Passover of Jesus’ ministry (7 April 30). The article explores the historical context of Herod’s Temple, the role of Caiaphas and the Sanhedrin, and two key lessons: Jesus’ zeal for God’s house and the prophetic announcement of his resurrection.
John 2.14-22 (King James Version) :And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting:And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers’ money, and overthrew the tables;And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father’s house an house of merchandise.And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up.Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things?Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days?But he spake of the temple of his body.When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
From the second to the third Passover festival
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PER120
The testimony of the family of Jesus the Messiah
This article explores the strained relationships between Jesus, his family and the religious authorities, drawing mainly on the Gospel according to Mark. While describing his family's initially skeptical view, it highlights the dynamics with the Pharisees and the later conversion of some family members after the resurrection.
Mark 3.20-21 (King James Version) :And the multitude cometh together again, so that they could not so much as eat bread.And when his friends heard of it, they went out to lay hold on him: for they said, He is beside himself.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
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 6.4 (King James Version) :And the passover, a feast of the Jews, was nigh.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER070
The healing of the disabled man at the pool of Bethesda
The article analyses Jesus' healing of the disabled man at the pool of Bethesda on the Sabbath, illustrating Jesus' affirmation of himself as Lord of the Sabbath and the tensions with the Pharisees. John's account describes this miracle as a deliberate act intended to provoke reflection on the laws of Judaism, revealing the distortions in their interpretation by the religious authorities of the time.
John 5.2-16 (King James Version) :Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches.In these lay a great multitude of impotent folk, of blind, halt, withered, waiting for the moving of the water.For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and troubled the water: whosoever then first after the troubling of the water stepped in was made whole of whatsoever disease he had.And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years.When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole?The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath.The Jews therefore said unto him that was cured, It is the sabbath day: it is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed.He answered them, He that made me whole, the same said unto me, Take up thy bed, and walk.Then asked they him, What man is that which said unto thee, Take up thy bed, and walk?And he that was healed wist not who it was: for Jesus had conveyed himself away, a multitude being in that place.Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.The man departed, and told the Jews that it was Jesus, which had made him whole.And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER073
Preaching in Galilee continues
The article covers Jesus' preaching in Galilee in AD 31, highlighting his growing reputation despite rejection by the religious authorities. The Gospel accounts indicate that Jesus worked mainly in Capernaum, preaching in synagogues and performing many miracles. This ministry draws crowds from beyond Galilee.
Matthew 4.23-25 (King James Version) :And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judaea, and from beyond Jordan.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER075
The parables of the new cloth and the new wine
The parables of the new cloth and the new wine illustrate the radical break between Judaism and Christianity. Spoken by Jesus in reply to John the Baptist's disciples about fasting, they affirm that the old and the new cannot be mixed. The change required is a complete transformation rather than a reform, inviting each person to choose the Teacher they will follow.
Luke 5.36-39 (King James Version) :And he spake also a parable unto them; No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old.And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish.But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved.No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER076
Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath
Jesus and his disciples cross a wheat field on a Sabbath (April 5, AD 31, in Galilee). The Pharisees accuse them of violating Sabbath law. Jesus replies by citing David's example and affirms his absolute authority: the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath. He denounces the distortions of Pharisaic interpretation, opposed to the original spirit of Mosaic law, and claims the right to restore the true Sabbath.
1 Samuel 21.1-5 (King James Version) :Then came David to Nob to Ahimelech the priest: and Ahimelech was afraid at the meeting of David, and said unto him, Why art thou alone, and no man with thee?NoteAhimelech: also called AhiahNotepresent: Heb. foundNoteyea…: or, especially when this day there is other sanctified in the vesselAnd David said unto Ahimelech the priest, The king hath commanded me a business, and hath said unto me, Let no man know any thing of the business whereabout I send thee, and what I have commanded thee: and I have appointed my servants to such and such a place.Now therefore what is under thine hand? give me five loaves of bread in mine hand, or what there is present.And the priest answered David, and said, There is no common bread under mine hand, but there is hallowed bread; if the young men have kept themselves at least from women.And David answered the priest, and said unto him, Of a truth women have been kept from us about these three days, since I came out, and the vessels of the young men are holy, and the bread is in a manner common, yea, though it were sanctified this day in the vessel.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER077
The healing of the man with the paralysed hand
Pericope 77 recounts the healing of a man with a paralysed hand in the synagogue in Capernaum on a Sabbath in AD 31. Reported by Matthew, Mark and Luke, this episode reveals the growing tension between Jesus and the Pharisees. Seeking to accuse him, they refuse to see the miracles performed. The year AD 31 ends with a break between Jesus and the Jewish religious authorities.
Mark 3.1-5 (King James Version) :And he entered again into the synagogue; and there was a man there which had a withered hand.And they watched him, whether he would heal him on the sabbath day; that they might accuse him.And he saith unto the man which had the withered hand, Stand forth.And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? But they held their peace.And when he had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER078
The Pharisees plan to murder Jesus the Messiah
Pericope 78 recounts the Pharisees' decision to murder Jesus the Messiah following the healing of the man with the paralysed hand on a Sabbath. In AD 31, in Capernaum, a clear divide separates the hostile religious authorities from the admiring people. Dissenting voices such as Nicodemus and Gamaliel testify to internal opposition within the Sanhedrin. Despite this plot, Jesus resolutely continues his ministry.
John 7.45-53 (King James Version) :Then came the officers to the chief priests and Pharisees; and they said unto them, Why have ye not brought him?The officers answered, Never man spake like this man.Then answered them the Pharisees, Are ye also deceived?Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed on him?But this people who knoweth not the law are cursed.Nicodemus saith unto them, (he that came to Jesus by night, being one of them,)Doth our law judge any man, before it hear him, and know what he doeth?They answered and said unto him, Art thou also of Galilee? Search, and look: for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet.And every man went unto his own house.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER079
Many healings in Galilee
Pericope 79 recounts the many healings Jesus performed in Galilee, around Capernaum, in AD 31. Faced with crowds from all over Israel, Jesus heals the sick and proclaims salvation, asking for discretion. Matthew connects these events with the prophecy of Isaiah 42:1–4 and sees a Trinitarian revelation in them. His growing fame contrasts with the increasing opposition of the Pharisees, jealous of his influence on the people.
Matthew 12.15-21 (King James Version) :But when Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence: and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all;And charged them that they should not make him known:That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying,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 judgment to the Gentiles.He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets.A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory.And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER082
Proclamation of the Gospel
The article ‘PER082 - Proclamation of the Gospel’ explores Jesus' prophetic instructions to his disciples, announcing future persecutions. Based on Matthew 10:16–23, it highlights the Holy Spirit's role. Taking place in Galilee, this training prepares the apostles for the challenges ahead.
Matthew 10.16-23 (King James Version) :Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues;And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles.But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death.And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER113
John the Baptist’s question
Imprisoned, John the Baptist sends his disciples to ask Jesus whether he is indeed the awaited Messiah. Jesus answers through his deeds—healings, resurrections and proclamation to the poor—drawing on Isaiah 35.5. The article analyses the divergence between the two ministries, Matthew’s editorial reasoning and the powerful Christological implication in the prophetic reference: Jesus is God coming to save his people (Isa 35.4).
Matthew 11.2-6 (King James Version) :Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples,And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see:The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER117
Jesus the Messiah in the Pharisee’s house
In Capernaum, Jesus accepts an invitation from a Pharisee named Simon. During the meal, a sinful woman anoints his feet with tears and perfume. Faced with Simon’s contempt, Jesus tells a parable about forgiveness and declares that the woman has been saved by her faith. This episode, recorded only by Luke (7,36-50), illustrates the opposition between the Pharisees’ religious pride and the repentant humility that opens the way to salvation.
Luke 7.39 (King James Version) :Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER126
The unclean spirits
This article explores Jesus' teaching on unclean spirits, highlighting the importance of true conversion and the presence of the Holy Spirit in preventing a spiritual relapse after deliverance.
Mark 5.1-20 (King James Version) :And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes.And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit,Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains:Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him.And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones.But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him,And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not.For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit.And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country.Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding.And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them.And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea.And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that was done.And they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid.And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine.And they began to pray him to depart out of their coasts.And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him.Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER127
A woman interrupts Jesus the Messiah
This article analyzes an incident reported by Luke in which a woman expresses her admiration for Jesus, highlighting the social change of the time. Jesus responds by emphasizing the importance of those who listen to and apply his teachings, transcending traditional family ties.
Luke 8.19-21 (King James Version) :Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for the press.And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee.And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER136
The Messiah Jesus as a cause of divisions
The article examines how Jesus' teachings create divisions, according to the Gospels. The central message is that following Jesus can lead to personal and spiritual conflicts, but offers a unique opportunity for salvation.
Luke 12.49-59 (King James Version) :I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished!Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division:For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three.The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.And he said also to the people, When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower; and so it is.And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say, There will be heat; and it cometh to pass.Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time?Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, as thou art in the way, give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison.I tell thee, thou shalt not depart thence, till thou hast paid the very last mite.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER137
The true family of the Messiah Jesus
This article explores how Jesus redefines the concept of family, focusing his discourse on the importance of spiritual bonds over blood ties, as illustrated by his words in Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
Mark 3.31-35 (King James Version) :There came then his brethren and his mother, and, standing without, sent unto him, calling him.And the multitude sat about him, and they said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without seek for thee.And he answered them, saying, Who is my mother, or my brethren?And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren!For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER150
Conclusion of Jesus the Messiah
Pericope 150 closes the parable discourse of Matthew 13. Jesus asks his disciples whether they have understood, then describes the ideal disciple as a scribe instructed in the kingdom, able to bring out of his treasure things new and old. This passage underscores the complementarity of the Old and New Testaments and the responsibility of teachers to pass on the Messiah's teaching faithfully.
Matthew 13.51-53 (King James Version) :Jesus saith unto them, Have ye understood all these things? They say unto him, Yea, Lord.Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these parables, he departed thence.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER151
Jesus the Messiah stills the storm
After an intense day of teaching, Jesus crosses Lake Tiberias with his disciples. A violent storm breaks out, threatening to sink the boat. Awakened by his panicking disciples, Jesus commands the elements to be silent, and a great calm immediately settles in. This episode, reported by Matthew, Mark and Luke, reveals Jesus’ divine authority over nature and teaches the importance of unshakable faith even in the midst of trials.
Luke 8.22-25 (King James Version) :Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth.But as they sailed he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy.And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm.And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER155
The healing of Jairus' daughter
Pericope 155 recounts the raising of Jairus' daughter by Jesus the Messiah at Capernaum (Feb.–Mar. AD 32). Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, prostrates himself before Jesus to implore the healing of his dying daughter. Despite the delay caused by the healing of a woman with a hemorrhage, Jesus goes to the house, says “Talitha koumi,” and raises the young girl. This miracle bears witness to his authority over death and calls for faith even in desperate situations.
Leviticus 5.2 (King James Version) :Or if a soul touch any unclean thing, whether it be a carcase of an unclean beast, or a carcase of unclean cattle, or the carcase of unclean creeping things, and if it be hidden from him; he also shall be unclean, and guilty.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER162
Sending out the twelve apostles
Pericope 162 recounts Jesus sending out the twelve apostles in Galilee, a few weeks before Passover (March AD 32). Reported by Matthew (10.1-15), Mark (6.6-13) and Luke (9.1-6), this episode shows the disciples sent out two by two to preach the kingdom, heal and cast out demons. Each evangelist brings his own perspective to the travel instructions and the nature of the mission.
Matthew 10.1-15 (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.These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses,Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat.And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence.And when ye come into an house, salute it.And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you.And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER163
Death of John the Baptist
Pericope 163 analyzes Herod Antipas's reaction to the fame of Jesus, whom he identifies with John the Baptist risen from the dead. Through a synoptic comparison of Matthew 14.1-2, Mark 6.14-16 and Luke 9.7-9, the article explores the convergences and differences between the three accounts, the political context in Galilee in March AD 32, and the weight of Herod's guilt after the murder of John the Baptist.
Matthew 14.1-2 (King James Version) :At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus,And said unto his servants, This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead; and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER165
Reminder of the circumstances of the murder of John the Baptist
Pericope 165 analyzes the circumstances of the murder of John the Baptist according to Matthew (14.6-12) and Mark (6.21-29). In Galilee, in March AD 32, Herod Antipas yields to the manipulation of Herodias through Salome's dance and has the prophet beheaded. The article highlights the parallel between the martyrdom of John and that of Jesus, two messianic figures unjustly condemned and laid in a tomb.
Matthew 14.1-12 (King James Version) :At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus,And said unto his servants, This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead; and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him.For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias’ sake, his brother Philip’s wife.For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her.And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.But when Herod’s birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod.Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would ask.And she, being before instructed of her mother, said, Give me here John Baptist’s head in a charger.And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath’s sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her.And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison.And his head was brought in a charger, and given to the damsel: and she brought it to her mother.And his disciples came, and took up the body, and buried it, and went and told Jesus.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER166
The return of the apostles
After their evangelistic mission in Galilee, the apostles return to Jesus and report to him on their activity. Mark stresses their exhaustion and their need for rest in a desolate place, while Luke specifies that the retreat takes place toward Bethsaida. This pericope highlights Jesus' compassion for his disciples, the importance of rest in ministry, and the practice of apostolic accountability. The event takes place in Galilee in March AD 32.
Luke 9.10 (King James Version) :And the apostles, when they were returned, told him all that they had done. And he took them, and went aside privately into a desert place belonging to the city called Bethsaida.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER167
The Messiah Jesus withdraws with his disciples
PER167 describes the withdrawal of Jesus and his disciples to Bethsaida to rest after an intense evangelistic mission in Galilee, just before the Passover of April AD 32. The synoptic analysis of Matthew 14,13-14, Mark 6,31-32, Luke 9,10-11 and John 6,1-4 shows points of agreement and nuances: the desire for seclusion, being followed by the crowd, healings and teaching. This episode comes directly before the multiplication of the loaves.
John 6.1-4 (King James Version) :After these things Jesus went over the sea of Galilee, which is the sea of Tiberias.And a great multitude followed him, because they saw his miracles which he did on them that were diseased.And Jesus went up into a mountain, and there he sat with his disciples.And the passover, a feast of the Jews, was nigh.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
From the 3rd Passover to the start of the final week
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PER170
The reaction of the crowd
After the multiplication of the loaves, the crowd recognizes Jesus as the prophet announced by Moses and wants to crown him king. Only John reports this episode. Jesus withdraws to the mountain, refusing a political kingship. This passage reveals the tension between popular messianic expectations and the spiritual mission of the Messiah, who refuses to conform to the nationalist hopes of his time.
John 6.14-15 (King James Version) :Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world.When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER171
The Messiah Jesus and Peter walk on the water
Pericope 171 analyzes the miracle of Jesus walking on the waters of Lake Gennesaret (April AD 32), including the episode of Peter. A rigorous comparison of the accounts in Matthew 14.22-32, Mark 6.45-52 and John 6.16-21 brings out points of agreement and difference, revealing the divine power of the Messiah and the tension between faith and doubt among the disciples.
John 6.16-21 (King James Version) :And when even was now come, his disciples went down unto the sea,And entered into a ship, and went over the sea toward Capernaum. And it was now dark, and Jesus was not come to them.And the sea arose by reason of a great wind that blew.So when they had rowed about five and twenty or thirty furlongs, they see Jesus walking on the sea, and drawing nigh unto the ship: and they were afraid.But he saith unto them, It is I; be not afraid.Then they willingly received him into the ship: and immediately the ship was at the land whither they went.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER173
Numerous Healings at Gennesaret
Pericope 173 recounts the numerous healings Jesus performed at Gennesaret (Galilee) in April AD 32, according to Matthew 14.34-36 and Mark 6.53-56. On his arrival, Jesus is immediately recognized, and crowds of sick people hurry to touch the fringe of his cloak, thereby obtaining their healing. The synoptic analysis reveals major convergences between the two evangelists and complementary nuances. This episode illustrates popular faith, the divine power of Jesus, and foreshadows the growing tensions with the religious authorities.
Matthew 14.35 (King James Version) :And when the men of that place had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought unto him all that were diseased;King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org