The ministry of John the Baptist 2 studies
The beginning of the ministry in Galilee 1 study
From the second to the third Passover festival 18 studies
- 4The choosing of the 12 Apostles
- 5The Sermon on the Mount (5), the Messiah Jesus' relationship with the law
- 6The Sermon on the Mount (6), murder, offerings, and forgiveness
- 7The Sermon on the Mount (7), adultery and divorce
- 8The Sermon on the Mount (8): perjury
From the 3rd Passover to the start of the final week 1 study
Exorcisms 1 study
Contradictions 2 studies
Miracles 1 study
The ministry of John the Baptist
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PER036
The wedding at Cana
The wedding at Cana (John 2:1–11) constitutes Jesus’ first sign: he turns water into wine at a wedding in Cana in Galilee, in November 29. Only John reports this episode. The article explores possible reasons for Jesus’ family’s presence, tentatively identifies Nathanael as the bridegroom, and emphasises that this miracle strengthens the disciples’ faith by revealing the Messiah’s glory.
John 2.11 (King James Version) :This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER038
The first Passover festival
Pericope PER038 analyses the first Passover festival in John’s Gospel (John 2:13), dated precisely to 7 April 30. The article makes three observations: the festival’s chronological value for dating Jesus’ ministry over three and a half years, John’s distinction of the ‘Passover of the Jews’, and Jesus’ observance of Jewish rites. John alone records this period before John the Baptist’s arrest.
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
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
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.
Matthew 9.38 (King James Version) :Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER089
The Sermon on the Mount (5), the Messiah Jesus' relationship with the law
The fifth part of the Sermon on the Mount, this article analyses Jesus' relationship with Mosaic law on the basis of Matthew 5:17–20. Jesus states that he came to fulfil the law fully according to God's original purpose rather than abolish it. He distinguishes Moses' authentic law from the religious traditions added by scribes and Pharisees and warns that their institutionalised righteousness does not lead to the kingdom of heaven.
Luke 24.44 (King James Version) :And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER090
The Sermon on the Mount (6), murder, offerings, and forgiveness
The sixth part of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:21–26), this pericope examines Jesus' teaching on murder, offering and forgiveness. Jesus deepens the fifth commandment by showing that anger and contempt towards one's brother are spiritually as serious as murder itself. He contrasts the letter of Pharisaic law with God's original spirit and affirms that sincere forgiveness alone, rather than an offering, restores a normal relationship. The warning is eschatological: without reconciliation, there is Gehenna.
Luke 17.3-4 (King James Version) :Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER091
The Sermon on the Mount (7), adultery and divorce
Pericope 91 explores the seventh part of the Sermon on the Mount, focusing on adultery and divorce (Matthew 5:27–32; Luke 16:18). Jesus goes beyond Mosaic law by condemning not only the act but also thoughts in which one indulges. He addresses divorce in relation to the schools of Hillel and Shammai, setting radical demands. The metaphors of the eye and hand emphasise the need for an inward transformation of the heart to avoid sin.
Psalms 94.11 (King James Version) :The LORD knoweth the thoughts of man, that they are vanity.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER092
The Sermon on the Mount (8): perjury
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches about perjury (Matthew 5:33–37). Against the contemporary practice of conditional oaths, he requires simple, honest speech: let ‘yes’ be ‘yes’ and ‘no’ be ‘no’. Matthew is the only Gospel writer to report this teaching, as Luke addresses non-Jews less concerned with this practice. James 5:12 repeats this precept in the apostolic tradition.
Matthew 5.33-37 (King James Version) :Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne:Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King.Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER093
The Sermon on the Mount (9): Vengeance
PER093 examines Jesus' teaching on vengeance in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:38–42). Jesus reinterprets the law of retaliation (Exodus 21:24; Leviticus 24:20; Deuteronomy 19:21) by calling his disciples to non-violence, forgiveness and love of enemies. This teaching, unique to Matthew, advocates a peaceful response transcending the logic of vengeance rather than total passivity, in keeping with Romans 12:17 and 1 Peter 3:9.
1 Peter 3.9 (King James Version) :Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER094
The Sermon on the Mount (10): loving one's enemies
The tenth section of the Sermon on the Mount concerns love of enemies (Matthew 5:43–48; Luke 6:27–36). Jesus goes beyond Pharisaic interpretation by inviting his disciples to love even Gentiles, following God, who loves all people. The ‘Golden Rule’ (Matthew 7:12) complements this teaching. The ultimate aim is divine perfection: ‘Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect.’
Matthew 5.45 (King James Version) :That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER108
The results of the Sermon on the Mount
PER108 concludes the Sermon on the Mount according to Matthew 7.28-29. The crowd and the disciples are struck by Jesus’ unique authority, so different from that of the Pharisees. Through 23 points, Jesus has outlined the portrait of a true disciple, an ideal impossible to attain without profound transformation. The crowd glimpses the Messiah in him and longs for the new life he offers.
John 6.68 (King James Version) :Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.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 -
PER140
The parable of the measure
The parable of the measure (PER140) teaches that the way we judge and treat others determines how God will measure us in return. Jesus calls for attentive listening, reciprocity, justice and generosity. This principle, shared by Mark 4.24-25, Matthew 7.1-2 and Luke 6.38, echoes the golden rule and forms the heart of Christian ethics.
Matthew 7.1-2 (King James Version) :Judge not, that ye be not judged.For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER141
The parable of the weeds and the wheat
The parable of the weeds and the wheat (Matthew 13.24-30), unique to Matthew, teaches that good and evil coexist in the world until the final judgment. In it, Jesus illustrates God's patience in delaying the separation of the righteous and the wicked until the eschatological harvest, entrusted to the angels. This parable forms part of a profound biblical reflection on the apparent prosperity of the wicked, shared by Habakkuk, Asaph, Jeremiah, and Job.
Matthew 25.1-13 (King James Version) :Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER143
The parable of the mustard seed
The parable of the mustard seed (Mt 13.31-32; Mk 4.30-32; Lk 13.18-19) illustrates the Kingdom of God through a tiny seed becoming a large tree. Delivered near Capernaum in AD 31, it teaches that the Kingdom begins humbly but experiences extraordinary growth, offering refuge and welcome to all. It calls for faith, patience, and trust in God for spiritual growth.
Matthew 13.24-30 (King James Version) :Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also.So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them.Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER147
The parable of the hidden treasure
The parable of the hidden treasure (Mt 13,44), reported only by Matthew, teaches that the kingdom of heaven is of incomparable value. A man discovers a buried treasure, covers it up again, then sells everything to buy the field. This parable illustrates the joy and determination of the one who recognizes the supreme value of the Kingdom, ready to sacrifice everything to obtain it. It resonates especially with Matthew's own journey, for he himself had left everything to follow Jesus.
Matthew 13.44 (King James Version) :Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.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 13.52 (King James Version) :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.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 -
PER154
The healing of the woman with bleeding
Pericope 154 recounts the healing of a woman who had suffered from bleeding for twelve years, as reported by Matthew, Mark and Luke. In Capernaum, she discreetly touches the garment of Jesus on his way to Jairus' house. Healed instantly, she is publicly acknowledged by Jesus, who declares: 'Your faith has saved you.' The article compares the three Synoptic accounts and explores the theological, christological and social significance of this miracle of faith.
Matthew 9.20-22 (King James Version) :And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment:For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole.But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER161
Return to Nazareth
The second return of Jesus to Nazareth (March AD 32) is recounted by Matthew and Mark. Despite his teaching in the synagogue, the townspeople reject him because of their familiarity with him and his family. Their lack of faith limits his miracles. Jesus utters the famous saying: ‘A prophet is despised only in his own country.’ Mark adds details absent from Matthew: the presence of the disciples and Jesus’ astonishment at their unbelief.
Mark 6.1-6 (King James Version) :And he went out from thence, and came into his own country; and his disciples follow him.And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands?Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him.But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house.And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them.And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching.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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PER207
The disagreement between the Master and his brothers
John 7.3-9 recounts the tension between Jesus and his brothers before the Feast of Sukkot (October AD 32). Not understanding the messianic mission, they urge him to show himself publicly in Jerusalem. Jesus chooses caution, aware of the risk of arrest. Mary keeps in the background. This episode, found only in John, illustrates the family's incomprehension of the divine nature of Jesus, as the conversion of his brothers takes place only after the resurrection.
Acts 1.14 (King James Version) :These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
Exorcisms
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MIR004
Healing of the possessed man in the synagogue of Capernaum
The article discusses Jesus' healing of a possessed man in Capernaum, as recounted in Mark and Luke. The unclean spirit recognizes Jesus as the Holy One of God and, at Christ's command, comes out of the man. Those present were amazed at Jesus’ authority, and his fame spread. These accounts highlight Jesus’ divine authority and healing power.
Mark 1.23-28 (King James Version) :And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out,Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God.And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him.And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and cried with a loud voice, he came out of him.And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him.And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
Contradictions
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CTD045
Did the centurion come to Jesus in person?
The article examines a contradiction between Matthew and Luke concerning the encounter between Jesus and the centurion at Capernaum. Matthew describes a direct encounter, while Luke mentions intermediaries. The differences are explained by the principle of representation, the progression of events, and differing editorial styles. These variations do not alter the substance of the accounts.
Matthew 8.5-13 (King James Version) :And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him,And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented.And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him.The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
CTD062
A paralysed man carried by four men
The article explores differences between Matthew's and Mark's accounts of Jesus healing the paralytic. Although the accounts vary, the article emphasizes that they are complementary, reflecting the authors' individual perspectives under divine inspiration and offering a rich view of the events.
Matthew 9.2-8 (King James Version) :And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.And, behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This man blasphemeth.And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts?For whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and walk?But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house.And he arose, and departed to his house.But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
Miracles
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MIR031
Coin in a fish’s mouth
This article discusses the miracle of the coin in a fish's mouth, showing Jesus' wisdom in responding to religious requirements. In Capernaum, to avoid offending the Temple tax collectors, Jesus asks Peter to catch a fish with a coin to pay the tax. This account highlights Jesus' dual nature as the Son of God and teaches a balance between spiritual freedom and respect for tradition.
Matthew 17.24-27 (King James Version) :And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute?He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free.Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org