Mt 2:1.
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Mt 2:2.
Page 92
Page 93
Mt 2:3.
Mt 2:4.
Mt 2:5.
Mt 2:6.
Page 94
Mt 2:7.
Mt 2:8.
Page 95
Mt 2:9.
Mt 2:10.
Page 96
Mt 2:11.
Mt 2:12.
Page 97
Mt 2:13.
Page 98
Mt 2:14.
Mt 2:15.
Mt 2:16.
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Mt 2:17.
Mt 2:18.
Mt 2:19.
Page 100
Mt 2:20.
Mt 2:21.
Lk 2:39 (pt 1).
Page 101
Mt 2:22.
Lk 2:39 (pt 2).
Mt 2:23.
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Lk 2:40.
Page 103
Lk 2:41.
Lk 2:42.
Lk 2:43.
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Lk 2:44.
Lk 2:45.
Lk 2:46.
Lk 2:47.
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Lk 2:48.
Lk 2:49.
Lk 2:50.
Page 106
Lk 2:51.
Lk 2:52.
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Page 108
Lk 1:80.
Lk 3:1.
Page 109
Lk 3:2.
Jn 1:6.
Jn 1:7.
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Page 111
Jn 1:8.
Jn 1:9.
Page 112
Jn 1:10.
Jn 1:11.
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Jn 1:12.
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Jn 1:13.
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Jn 1:14.
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Jn 1:15.
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Jn 1:16.
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Jn 1:17.
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Jn 1:18.
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(BETHLEHEM)
THE WISE MEN
1 YEAR
NOW (AFTER) JESUS WAS BORN IN BETHLEHEM OF (JUDEA) IN THE (TIME) OF HEROD THE KING, BEHOLD, THERE CAME WISE MEN (or Magi) FROM THE EAST TO JERUSALEM,
SAYING, WHERE IS HE (the One) THAT IS (the new) BORN KING OF THE JEWS? FOR WE HAVE SEEN HIS STAR IN THE EAST, AND ARE COME TO WORSHIP HIM.
WHEN HEROD THE KING HAD HEARD THESE THINGS, HE WAS TROUBLED (or very agitated, or disturbed), AND (EVERYONE ELSE IN) JERUSALEM WITH HIM.
AND WHEN HE HAD GATHERED ALL THE CHIEF PRIESTS AND SCRIBES (or Torah teachers) OF THE PEOPLE TOGETHER, HE (BEGAN TO INQUIRE) (or asked) OF THEM WHERE CHRIST (or the Messiah) SHOULD BE BORN.
AND THEY SAID (TO) HIM, IN BETHLEHEM (or Beit–Lechem) OF (JUDEA): FOR THUS IT IS WRITTEN BY THE PROPHET,
AND (YOU) BETHLEHEM (or Beit–Lechem), IN THE LAND OF JUDA, (ARE BY NO MEANS–NASB) THE LEAST AMONG THE PRINCES (or leaders, or rulers) OF JUDA: FOR (FROM) (YOU) SHALL COME A GOVERNOR (or Ruler), THAT SHALL RULE (or be the Shepherd of–NIV) MY PEOPLE ISRAEL.
THEN HEROD, WHEN HE HAD (SECRETLY) CALLED THE WISE MEN (or Magi), (ASKED) OF THEM DILIGENTLY (WHEN) THE STAR APPEARED.
AND HE SENT THEM TO BETHLEHEM (or Beit–Lechem), AND SAID, GO AND SEARCH DILIGENTLY (or carefully) FOR THE YOUNG CHILD; AND WHEN (YOU) HAVE FOUND HIM, (REPORT TO ME) (or let me know) AGAIN, THAT I MAY COME AND WORSHIP HIM ALSO.
AGAIN, THAT I MAY COME AND WORSHIP HIM ALSO.(AFTER) THEY HAD (LISTENED TO) THE KING, THEY DEPARTED; AND, (BEHOLD), THE STAR, WHICH THEY SAW IN THE EAST, WENT (IN FRONT OF) THEM, TILL IT CAME AND (STOPPED) OVER WHERE THE YOUNG CHILD WAS.
WHEN THEY SAW THE STAR, THEY (WERE OVERJOYED).
AND WHEN THEY WERE COME INTO THE HOUSE, THEY SAW THE YOUNG CHILD WITH MARY HIS MOTHER, AND (they) FELL DOWN, AND WORSHIPED HIM: AND WHEN THEY HAD OPENED THEIR (BAGS), THEY PRESENTED (TO) HIM GIFTS; GOLD, AND FRANKINCENSE (or incense), AND MYRRH.
AND BEING (divinely) WARNED (BY) GOD IN A DREAM THAT THEY SHOULD NOT RETURN (back) TO HEROD, THEY (RETURNED) INTO THEIR OWN COUNTRY (by) ANOTHER WAY.
AND (AFTER THEY HAD GONE), BEHOLD, THE ANGEL OF THE LORD (APPEARED) TO JOSEPH IN A DREAM, SAYING, (GET UP), AND TAKE THE YOUNG CHILD AND HIS MOTHER, AND FLEE (or escape) INTO EGYPT, AND (STAY) THERE UNTIL I (TELL YOU TO LEAVE–JNT): FOR HEROD WILL (SEARCH) (or look for) THE YOUNG CHILD (IN ORDER TO KILL HIM–JNT).
WHEN HE (GOT UP), HE TOOK THE YOUNG CHILD AND HIS MOTHER (DURING THE) NIGHT, AND (LEFT FOR) EGYPT:
AND (STAYED) THERE UNTIL THE DEATH OF HEROD: THAT IT MIGHT BE FULFILLED WHICH WAS SPOKEN OF THE LORD BY THE PROPHET, SAYING, OUT OF EGYPT HAVE I CALLED MY SON.
THEN HEROD, WHEN HE (REALIZED) THAT HE WAS MOCKED (or tricked, or outwitted, or deceived) OF THE WISE MEN (or Magi), (he) WAS (ENRAGED) (or furious, or angry), AND SENT FORTH, AND (GAVE ORDERS TO KILL–NIV) ALL THE (male) CHILDREN (or boys) THAT WERE IN BETHLEHEM, AND IN ALL THE COASTS (or environs, or vicinity, or districts) THEREOF, FROM TWO YEARS OLD AND UNDER, ACCORDING TO (or calculating) THE TIME WHICH HE HAD DILIGENTLY INQUIRED (or ascertained, or learned, or determined) (FROM) THE WISE MEN (or Magi).
THEN WAS FULFILLED THAT WHICH WAS SPOKEN BY JEREMIAH THE PROPHET, SAYING,
IN (RAMAH) WAS THERE A VOICE HEARD, LAMENTATION, AND WEEPING, AND GREAT MOURNING (or sobbing and lamenting loudly–JNT), (It was) RACHEL WEEPING (or sobbing) FOR HER CHILDREN, AND WOULD NOT (or refused to) BE COMFORTED, BECAUSE THEY (ARE NO LONGER ALIVE–JNT) (or were no more).
FROM EGYPT TO ISRAEL
2 TO 4 YEARS
BUT WHEN HEROD WAS DEAD, BEHOLD, AN ANGEL OF THE LORD (or Adonai) (APPEARED) IN A DREAM TO JOSEPH IN EGYPT,
SAYING, (GET UP), AND TAKE THE YOUNG CHILD AND HIS MOTHER, AND GO INTO THE LAND OF ISRAEL: FOR THEY ARE DEAD WHICH (WERE TRYING TO TAKE–NIV) THE YOUNG CHILD’S LIFE.
AND HE (GOT UP), AND TOOK THE YOUNG CHILD AND HIS MOTHER, AND CAME (back) INTO THE LAND OF ISRAEL.
JOSEPH AND MARY
RETURN TO NAZARETH
2 TO 4 YEARS
AND WHEN (JOSEPH AND MARY) HAD PERFORMED ALL THINGS (REQUIRED BY) THE LAW OF THE LORD, (Commentary: It did not say they performed all things according to the law of Moses, but according to the law of “the Lord.” This would include the prophesied going into Egypt and returning from Egypt to Israel. As it is written, I…CALLED MY SON OUT OF EGYPT–Hos 11:1; ref Mt 2:15.)
It is also possible this verse is a “gap verse” The first part was before they went to Egypt, and the second part after they returned from Egypt.
BUT WHEN HE HEARD THAT ARCHELAUS DID REIGN (OVER) (JUDEA) (as king of Y'hudah–JNT) IN (PLACE) (or instead) OF HIS FATHER HEROD, HE WAS AFRAID TO GO (THERE): NOTWITHSTANDING, BEING WARNED OF GOD IN A DREAM, HE TURNED ASIDE (or departed, or withdrew) INTO THE (REGIONS) (or district) OF GALILEE:
THEY RETURNED INTO GALILEE, TO THEIR OWN CITY (or town of) NAZARETH.
AND HE CAME AND (SETTLED) (or resided, or lived) IN A (TOWN) CALLED NAZARETH: THAT IT MIGHT BE FULFILLED WHICH WAS SPOKEN BY THE PROPHETS, (that) HE SHALL BE CALLED A NAZARENE.
THE CHILD (JESUS) GREW
UP TO 12 YEARS
AND THE CHILD GREW, AND (BECAME) STRONG IN SPIRIT, FILLED (or increasing) WITH WISDOM: AND THE GRACE (or favor) OF GOD WAS UPON HIM.
JESUS AND HIS PARENTS
GO UP TO JERUSALEM
12 YEARS
NOW HIS PARENTS WENT TO JERUSALEM EVERY YEAR AT THE FEAST (or festival) OF THE PASSOVER.
AND WHEN HE WAS TWELVE YEARS OLD, THEY WENT UP TO JERUSALEM (ACCORDING TO) THE CUSTOM OF THE FEAST.
AND WHEN THEY HAD FULFILLED THE (full number of) DAYS (or after the feast was over–NIV), AS THEY RETURNED (home), THE CHILD JESUS (STAYED) BEHIND IN JERUSALEM; AND JOSEPH AND HIS MOTHER (or parents) (WERE UNAWARE) OF IT.
BUT THEY, (THINKING HE WAS) (somewhere) IN THE (CARAVAN), WENT A DAY'S JOURNEY (on the road); AND (then) THEY (BEGAN SEARCHING FOR) HIM AMONG THEIR (RELATIVES) AND (FRIENDS).
AND WHEN THEY FOUND HIM NOT, THEY TURNED BACK AGAIN TO JERUSALEM, SEEKING HIM.
AND IT CAME TO PASS, THAT AFTER THREE DAYS (or on the third day–JNT) THEY FOUND HIM IN THE TEMPLE (courts), SITTING (AMONG) THE DOCTORS (or teachers, or rabbis), BOTH (LISTENING TO) THEM, AND ASKING THEM QUESTIONS.
AND ALL THAT HEARD HIM WERE ASTONISHED AT HIS UNDERSTANDING (or insight) AND ANSWERS.
AND WHEN (HIS PARENTS) SAW HIM, THEY WERE (SHOCKED): AND HIS MOTHER SAID (TO) HIM, SON, WHY (HAVE) (YOU) (TREATED) US (THIS WAY)? BEHOLD, (YOUR) FATHER AND I HAVE (BEEN…SEARCHING FOR) (YOU). (I HAVE BEEN TERRIBLY WORRIED–JNT).
AND HE SAID (TO) THEM, (WHY) IS IT THAT (YOU) (HAVE TO LOOK FOR–JNT) ME? (DID) (YOU) NOT (know) THAT I MUST BE (CONCERNING) (Myself with) MY FATHER'S (AFFAIRS) (or that I had to be in My Father's house–NIV)?
AND THEY UNDERSTOOD NOT THE (STATEMENT) WHICH HE (SPOKE) (TO) THEM (or they didn't understand what He meant–JNT).
(NAZARETH)
JESUS SUBJECT TO HIS PARENTS
HE INCREASED IN WISDOM
THE CHILDHOOD OF JESUS
12 YEARS AND BEYOND
AND (so) HE WENT DOWN WITH THEM, AND CAME TO NAZARETH, AND (CONTINUED IN SUBJECTION) (or was obedient) (TO) THEM: BUT HIS MOTHER (STORED UP) ALL THESE SAYINGS (or things) IN HER HEART.
AND JESUS INCREASED (or grew) IN WISDOM AND STATURE, AND (gaining) IN FAVOR WITH GOD AND (OTHER PEOPLE).
Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 108
JOHN GREW
THE CHILDHOOD OF JOHN
6 MONTHS PRIOR TO THE BIRTH OF
JESUS TO ABOUT 30 YEARS
AND THE CHILD (Commentary: This is referring to John the Baptist) GREW, AND (BECAME) STRONG IN SPIRIT, AND WAS (or lived) IN THE DESERTS (UNTIL) THE DAY OF HIS (PUBLIC APPEARANCE) (or manifestation) (TO) ISRAEL.
(THE WILDERNESS OF JUDEA)
THE WORD OF GOD CAME TO JOHN
29A½ TO 30 YEARS
NOW IN THE FIFTEENTH YEAR OF THE REIGN OF (EMPEROR TIBERIUS), PONTIUS PILATE BEING GOVERNOR OF (JUDEA), AND HEROD BEING TETRARCH OF GALILEE, AND HIS BROTHER PHILIP TETRARCH OF (ITUREA) AND OF THE REGION OF TRACHONITIS, AND LYSANIAS (was) THE TETRARCH OF ABILENE,
ANNAS AND CAIAPHAS BEING THE HIGH PRIESTS, THE WORD OF GOD CAME (TO) JOHN THE SON OF ZACHARIAS IN THE WILDERNESS (or desert).
JOHN CAME TO BEAR WITNESS OF
JESUS
29½ TO 30 YEARS
THERE WAS A MAN (who was) SENT FROM GOD, WHOSE NAME WAS JOHN.
(HE) CAME FOR A WITNESS (or testimony), TO (TESTIFY) (CONCERNING) THE LIGHT, (so) THAT ALL MEN THROUGH HIM MIGHT BELIEVE (or trust) (or so that through Him, everyone might put his trust in God and be faithful to Him–JNT).
Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 111
HE (himself) WAS NOT THAT LIGHT, (no) BUT (he) WAS SENT TO (TESTIFY) (CONCERNING) THAT LIGHT.
(THIS) WAS THE TRUE LIGHT, WHICH (GIVES LIGHT TO) EVERY MAN THAT (WAS COMING) INTO THE WORLD.
HE WAS IN THE WORLD, AND THE WORLD WAS MADE BY HIM, AND (yet) THE WORLD (DID NOT RECOGNIZE HIM–NIV).
HE CAME (TO) (that which was) HIS (OWN HOMELAND), AND (yet) (those who were) HIS OWN (people) RECEIVED HIM NOT.
BUT AS MANY AS RECEIVED HIM, TO THEM GAVE HE (the) POWER (or right) TO BECOME THE SONS (or children) OF GOD, EVEN TO THEM THAT BELIEVE (or put their trust) (IN) HIS NAME (or person and power–JNT):
(Children) WHICH WERE BORN, NOT OF BLOOD (or natural descent, or bloodline), NOR OF THE WILL OF THE FLESH (or human decision, or physical impulse), NOR OF THE WILL OF MAN (or a husband’s will, or human intention), BUT (born) OF GOD.
AND THE WORD WAS MADE (or became) FLESH (or became a human being–JNT), AND (LIVED) AMONG US, (AND WE BEHELD HIS GLORY, THE GLORY AS OF THE [One and] ONLY BEGOTTEN [Son] OF THE FATHER,) FULL OF GRACE AND TRUTH.
JOHN BARE WITNESS (or testifies) OF HIM, AND CRIED (out), SAYING, THIS WAS HE OF WHOM I (WAS TALKING ABOUT) (when I said), HE THAT (COMES) AFTER ME IS PREFERRED BEFORE ME (or has surpassed me, or has a higher rank than I–NASB): FOR HE (EXISTED) BEFORE ME.
AND OF HIS FULLNESS HAVE ALL WE RECEIVED, (yes) AND GRACE FOR (or upon) GRACE (or one blessing after another–NIV).
Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 118
FOR THE LAW WAS GIVEN (THROUGH) MOSES, BUT GRACE AND TRUTH CAME BY JESUS CHRIST (or the Messiah).
Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 119
NO MAN (HAS) SEEN GOD AT ANY TIME; (but) THE (One and) ONLY (or unique) BEGOTTEN SON (Who is identical with God–JNT), WHICH IS IN THE BOSOM OF THE FATHER (or is at the Father’s side–NIV), HE (HAS) DECLARED (or explained) HIM
Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 121
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Mt 2:1. NOW (AFTER) JESUS WAS BORN IN BETHLEHEM OF (JUDEA). Note, the wise men came sometime after the birth of Jesus, not before or during. Bethlehem is about 5 miles south of Jerusalem and means the “house of bread” in Hebrew. Jesus was the TRUE BREAD FROM HEAVEN, THE BREAD OF LIFE–ref Jn 6:32,35.
This fulfilled Mic 5:2 as it is written–BUT THOU, BETHLEHEM EPHRATAH, THOUGH THOU BE LITTLE AMONG THE THOUSANDS OF JUDAH, YET OUT OF THEE SHALL HE COME FORTH UNTO ME THAT IS TO BE RULER IN ISRAEL; WHOSE GOINGS FORTH HAVE BEEN FROM OF OLD, FROM EVERLASTING.
The verse continues–
IN THE (TIME) OF HEROD THE KING. He was known as Herod the great and is reported to have been the son of Antipater. He is reported to have been an Edomite and was very evil. It is reported that Christ may have been born in the thirty–fifth year of his reign. The verse continues–
BEHOLD, THERE CAME WISE MEN (or Magi). The men that came are called wise by God. The verse continues–
FROM THE EAST TO JERUSALEM. Note, the wise men did not come to Bethlehem, but to Jerusalem. This would be the likely place for people to come that were seeking one that was born the King of the Jews. They did not know where the King of the Jews was located or where He had been born.
Who these wise men were is not told. They came from the east. Some have speculated that they may have represented the three groups of people, which were descended from Noah’s three sons–Shem, Ham and Japheth. Others believe they were notable Gentiles from the east. Some have suggested that they were kings. Some have suggested that they may have come from the area that Daniel was exiled to hundreds of years previously.
Contrary to popular belief or tradition, the Bible does not state how many wise men there were. There may have been many as all Jerusalem was troubled along with Herod. It is said that one ancient source states there were 14. Because three gifts were given in Mt 2:11, some believe there were three wise men; however, this is only speculation. As already shown through Scripture, the tradition that the wise men came to the manger about the time that Christ was born is wrong. Summary: we do not know how many wise men there were, or what countries they were from, or how long they traveled, or what their occupations were. According to Scripture, they were wise, and the gifts they brought would indicate they were not poor.
The Scripture tells us they came to Jerusalem, but not to Herod.
When they asked about the KING OF THE JEWS in verse 2, they asked the people of Jerusalem, not Herod. The verses continue–
Mt 2:2. SAYING, WHERE IS HE (the One). They did not ask if “He” had been born, but were asking WHERE IS HE–
THAT IS (the new) BORN. Note, it did not say He was yet to be born, but that is born. Some how they knew that the birth had already taken place. Also their statement was in faith. The verse continues–
KING OF THE JEWS? They were positive about there was one that was born which was the King of the Jews. They did not say the one whom they were seeking was going to be appointed as the “King of the Jews” but that He was born “King of the Jews”.
God had revealed to these wise men in some special way, perhaps in a dream, or through the prophecies in the Old Testament, or in another way that the King of the Jews had been born. The name of Jesus is not mentioned. Jesus will indeed reign as the King of kings and Lord of lords when He returns at the time of Armageddon The wise men are portrayed in Matthew’s Gospel as this is the Gospel in which Jesus is portrayed as the King.
Note, it also said “BORN KING OF THE JEWS.” Herod was not a rightful king of the Jews from the lineage of David or even of Jacob. He was an Edomite and from the lineage of Esau. However, Jesus was born king. It is written in Jn 18:37–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.
The term KING OF THE JEWS was first used by the wise men in Mt 2:2.
Next it was used by Pilate, as he asked Jesus, ART THOU THE KING OF THE JEWS?–in Mt 27:11 and Lk 23:3. Again, it was used by a gentile.
Next it was used, in Mark 15:9, as Pilate said, WILL YE THAT I RELEASE UNTO YOU THE KING OF THE JEWS? Pilate appeared to believe that, indeed, Jesus was the KING OF THE JEWS.
Next it was used again by Pilate as he said in Mk 15:12 and Jn 18:39–WHAT WILL YE THEN THAT I SHOULD DO UNTO HIM WHOM YE CALL THE KING OF THE JEWS?
Next it was used by the soldiers as they mocked him, saying, HAIL, KING OF THE JEWS–in Mt 27:29.
Next it was used in Mt 27:37–AND (they) SET UP OVER HIS HEAD HIS ACCUSATION (or the charge against Him–JNT) (WHICH READ), THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
Next it was used in Jn 19:21 as a denial by the chief priests of the Jews to Pilate as they said, WRITE NOT, THE KING OF THE JEWS; BUT THAT HE SAID, I AM KING OF THE JEWS.
Lastly it was used by the soldiers in Lk 23:37 as they offered him vinegar and said, IF THOU BE THE KING OF THE JEWS, SAVE THYSELF.
In every case it was the gentiles that called Jesus the KING OF THE JEWS. This included the wise men, Pilate, and the soldiers, but the Jews appeared to denied it.
The Jews that believed in Him seemed to prefer the term KING OF ISRAEL. Note Mt 27:42, Mk 15:32, Jn 1:49 and 12:13. The verse continues–
FOR WE HAVE SEEN HIS STAR. What this star was is not known. As shown in later verses it was able to change direction. It was able to be seen by the wise men, yet it seems the people of Jerusalem were not able to see it (perhaps because of the blindness of their hearts). As the wise men came to Bethlehem, it appears the star was at a very low altitude, as it stopped and stood over a specific house. The word star in the Scriptures does not always denote a star in the sense that we think of it–that is, a distant sun or, in the case of a falling star, a meteoroid. Rev 8:10,11–uses the word star to denote something falling from heaven called wormwood. Rev 9:1 uses the word star to denote someone (seemingly an angel) to whom the key of the bottomless pit is given. Rev 22:16 uses the words “bright and morning star” to denote Jesus. The only purpose for the star, it appears in the beginning, was to alert the wise men that there was one born King of the Jews. Then the wise men used natural means to find their way to Jerusalem, which was the obvious place to go when seeking the King of the Jews. The verse continues–
IN THE EAST. Verse 9 tells us THE STAR WHICH THEY SAW IN THE EAST. In other words, when they were dwelling in the East, there they saw the star. There is no indication that the star went before them, as some believe as they traveled to Jerusalem. Jerusalem is west (not east) of the eastern countries. There is no mention that the people of Jerusalem had seen the star. As already said, Jerusalem would simply be the likely place to travel to when seeking the King of the Jews. However, after they departed from talking to Herod, then the star reappeared and went in a southerly direction in front of them, as they traveled the short distance to Bethlehem–ref verse 9.
The star, which the wise men had seen in the east, seemingly would have been something very special to make it stand out. How they knew it was the star of one that was born KING OF THE JEWS is not made known. In some way, God had given them a special revelation, so that they were confident in what they believed. They were so sure that they had set out on a long journey to find the new born KING OF THE JEWS. Some believe the wise men could have been astronomers, as they referred to a star.
Some believe that the wise men had a knowledge of Daniel’s prophecy (ref Dan 9: 25) or Balaam’s prophecy in Num 24:17. Note Dan 9:25–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. Num 24:15–17–AND HE TOOK UP HIS PARABLE, AND SAID, BALAAM THE SON OF BEOR HATH SAID, AND THE MAN WHOSE EYES ARE OPEN HATH SAID: HE HATH SAID, WHICH HEARD THE WORDS OF GOD, AND KNEW THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE MOST HIGH, WHICH SAW THE VISION OF THE ALMIGHTY, FALLING INTO A TRANCE, BUT HAVING HIS EYES OPEN: I SHALL SEE HIM, BUT NOT NOW: I SHALL BEHOLD HIM, BUT NOT NIGH: THERE SHALL COME A STAR OUT OF JACOB, AND A SCEPTRE SHALL RISE OUT OF ISRAEL, AND SHALL SMITE THE CORNERS OF MOAB, AND DESTROY ALL THE CHILDREN OF SHETH. The verse continues–
AND ARE COME TO WORSHIP HIM. God had also, in some way, revealed to these wise men that this babe that had been born was not simply the King of the Jews but was also God, as they came to worship Him. They did not seem to have any concern for worshipping Herod or any other king. The wise men may have expected to find Jerusalem worshipping the KING OF THE JEWS, yet what they found was that the people did not know where the KING OF THE JEWS was, neither did they know that such a birth had even taken place.
God had not revealed to the religious leaders or even Herod, the king, about the birth of the Messiah. Rather He revealed it to the wise men, which were also highly favored with God, as were the shepherds, and Simeon and Anna.
It is much the same today. Many religious leaders today cannot truly direct anyone to Christ as they themselves are in darkness.
Mt 2:3. WHEN HEROD THE KING. Note the difference–verse 3 uses the words BORN KING OF THE JEWS. Verse 3 uses the words HEROD THE KING. Herod was a murderer while the other came to save that which was lost. The verse continues–
HAD HEARD THESE THINGS. As the wise men traveled in Jerusalem, and inquired regarding the whereabouts of the King of the Jews, Herod heard the news. The verse continues–
HE WAS TROUBLED (or very agitated, or disturbed),
AND (EVERYONE ELSE IN) JERUSALEM WITH HIM. Were the people of Jerusalem rejoicing at the news that the wise men brought?–No. Why were they troubled? One reason was that they were living in sin. They were not living in righteousness or trying to follow the Law. They were not seeking to obey God. They were not seeking for the Messiah to reign over them.
It is the same today. The return of Jesus Christ to catch up (rapture, or translate) His people is not welcome news to most. Most do not want to hear of the return of Jesus Christ. It causes them to be uptight, as they are not ready for His return.
When Herod and the people had heard these things they would have realized the babe that the wise men talked about was not only the rightful King of Israel, but also the long awaited Messiah.
Another reason Herod would have been troubled is (as stated under verse 2), it also said “BORN KING OF THE JEWS” Herod was not a rightful king of the Jews from the lineage of David or even of Jacob. He was an Edomite and from the lineage of Esau. Thus, one that was “BORN KING OF THE JEWS” would have the right to the throne which Herod held and thus, he could lose his position and authority. Also he should have hoped that his sons would succeed him. The fact that the one born King of the Jews, also had a star, proclaimed clearly that this was of God.
Note the contrast. The birth of the baby Jesus brought joy to the angel Gabriel, to Joseph and Mary, Zacharias and Elizabeth, to Simeon, and Anna, to the angels, shepherds, and to the wise men; yet it troubled Herod and those that were living in intentional sin and rebellion to God, such as the religious leaders and the people of Jerusalem.
There is no indication up to this time that they had talked with Herod. The verses continue–
Mt 2:4. AND WHEN HE (Herod) HAD GATHERED
ALL THE CHIEF PRIESTS AND SCRIBES (or Torah teachers) OF THE PEOPLE TOGETHER. What, if any, knowledge Herod had regarding the birth of the King of the Jews (or the Messiah) is not known. He called the chief priests and scribes, and then–
HE (BEGAN TO INQUIRE) (or asked) OF THEM
WHERE CHRIST (or the Messiah) SHOULD BE BORN. Herod understood that the one that was “BORN KING OF THE JEWS” was the long awaited Messiah. Although they were troubled, it did not seem to surprise them that this was the time for the Messiah. Daniel’s prophecy (ref Dan 9:25) made it clear–this was the time to expect the Christ (or Messiah). That Messiah is Jesus.
Mt 2:5. AND THEY SAID (TO) HIM, IN BETHLEHEM (or Beit–Lechem) OF (JUDEA). The chief priests and scribes knew the Scriptures that it was in Bethlehem that the Messiah should be born. This had been clearly prophesied by Micah (ref Mic 5:2) about 704 B.C. They (the religious leaders) expected a literal fulfillment of the prophecy but they were ignorant that it had happened. The verse continues–
FOR THUS IT IS WRITTEN BY THE PROPHET,
Mt 2:6. AND (YOU) BETHLEHEM (or Beit–Lechem). Bethlehem means the house of bread. Jesus is the Bread of Life–ref Jn 6:35. This is also where David was born. Jesus is the Son of David. There is a well of water there, which David longed to drink from–ref 2 Sam 23:15. Jesus, who was born in this same place, Bethlehem, said HE THAT BELIEVETH ON ME SHALL NEVER THIRST–Jn 6:35. Jn 4:14–BUT WHOSOEVER DRINKETH OF THE WATER THAT I SHALL GIVE HIM SHALL NEVER THIRST; BUT THE WATER THAT I SHALL GIVE HIM SHALL BE IN HIM A WELL OF WATER SPRINGING UP INTO EVERLASTING LIFE. Rev 21:6–AND HE (Jesus) SAID…I WILL GIVE UNTO HIM THAT IS ATHIRST OF THE FOUNTAIN OF THE WATER OF LIFE FREELY. Rev 22:17–AND LET HIM THAT IS ATHIRST COME. AND WHOSOEVER WILL, LET HIM TAKE THE WATER OF LIFE FREELY. The verse continues–
IN THE LAND OF JUDA.
(ARE BY NO MEANS–NASB) THE LEAST AMONG THE PRINCES (or leaders, or rulers) OF JUDA. Because of the birth of Christ, Bethlehem is now famous throughout much of the world. The verse continues–
FOR (FROM) (YOU) SHALL COME A GOVERNOR (or Ruler),
THAT SHALL RULE (or be the Shepherd of–NIV) MY PEOPLE ISRAEL. This was taken from Micah 5:2. The latter part of the verse was left out, which more clearly shows the divinity of Christ. Nevertheless, what was read is clearly a reference to the Messiah. The religious leaders in Israel understood this.
Two reasons are given for the coming of Jesus. This verse partly covers the Millennium (M) in which Christ will reign and rule. This was not accomplished at His first coming, but shall come to pass when He returns, which is during the time of the Battle of Armageddon. In that day, Jesus shall reign and rule as the King of kings and Lord of lords over all the earth.
Even the Pharisees and Scribes (of which many were unrighteous before God) did not doubt the authenticity of the Scriptures, or that this was the time for the Messiah to be born, or that the place He would be born was in Bethlehem.
Herod undoubtedly felt threatened. He was the king, but now another king, ordained of God to rule Israel had been born.
Micah 5:2 The KJV reads–BUT THOU, BETHLEHEM EPHRATAH, THOUGH THOU BE LITTLE AMONG THE THOUSANDS OF JUDAH, YET OUT OF THEE SHALL HE COME FORTH UNTO ME THAT IS TO BE RULER IN ISRAEL. The part that appears to have been omitted reads as follows: WHOSE GOINGS FORTH HAVE BEEN FROM OF OLD, FROM EVERLASTING.
It is not mentioned that Isaiah was read to Herod which states in 9:6–FOR UNTO US A CHILD IS BORN, UNTO US A SON IS GIVEN: AND THE GOVERNMENT SHALL BE UPON HIS SHOULDER: AND HIS NAME SHALL BE CALLED WONDERFUL, COUNSELLOR, THE MIGHTY GOD, THE EVERLASTING FATHER, THE PRINCE OF PEACE.
Did the religious leaders seem to have any interest in finding and worshipping the Messiah? It appears they did not.
Mt 2:7. THEN HEROD. Herod had reigned at this point about 35 years. The verse continues–
WHEN HE HAD (SECRETLY) CALLED THE WISE MEN (or Magi),
This is the first and only recorded visit that the wise men had with Herod. Herod seemingly did not wish the people to know that he had called the wise men and what he had said to them. Underneath his secrecy was the most wicked deed–that of trying to kill God himself. The verse continues–He
(ASKED) OF THEM DILIGENTLY
(WHEN) THE STAR APPEARED. This may be denoting when the wise men first saw the star, which would help Herod determine when the one that was born KING OF THE JEWS might have been born. Herod did not doubt the wise men. Herod and Jerusalem were unaware of the star. Apparently the star had not been seen by them. They were also unaware that the Messiah had already been born, yet Gentiles came seeking Him from far away.
This may be said to be the history of Jesus. He went unto His own, and His own received Him not. Paul went unto the Gentiles and some of them did come to Christ, while most of the Jews did not. Yet that shall change during the Tribulation as one third of Israel shall be saved, and then in the Millennium, as it is written–THE GLORY OF THY PEOPLE ISRAEL–Lk 2:32.
Mt 2:8. AND HE SENT THEM TO BETHLEHEM (or Beit–Lechem),
AND SAID, GO AND SEARCH DILIGENTLY (or carefully) FOR THE YOUNG CHILD. Herod did not speak of the Messiah as one that should yet be born, but as one that had already been born–THE YOUNG CHILD. The verse continues–
AND WHEN (YOU) HAVE FOUND HIM,
(REPORT TO ME) (or let me know) AGAIN,
THAT I MAY COME AND WORSHIP HIM ALSO. King Herod lied. His wicked treachery had begun. He had no intention of coming to worship the young child who was the anointed king of the Jews by God. As Mt 2:13 shows, Herod planned to kill the Messiah. He was not afraid to try to fight against God. The religious leaders also planned to do the same thing some thirty years later. As Herod was deceitful and wanted to kill Jesus, so it is today. Today many seek to stop, discredit, or destroy those very few that do follow Jesus. In this 21st century, people in certain countries of the world are being killed for their faith in Christ and for possessing or teaching the Gospel. In the United States and around the world, those few people that obey God are often tempted and hindered in numerous ways by unbelievers, as well as other (so–called) professing believers.
Those living in intentional sin are often tormented with secret fears, which they hide from others and keep to themselves. Some even cloak their sin with a show of religiousness or religion—note Herod hid his intent to kill the Messiah with the words THAT I MAY COME AND WORSHIP HIM. The greatest wickedness often tries to hide itself under a mask of something that looks good. Herod’s secretiveness could have reflected some evil intent, but he hid it with the lie that he wanted to worship Him that was born King of the Jews.
God had confused Herod. It appears he had not thought to have his own trusted servants go find the King of the Jews. It appears he had not thought to have the wise men followed. It had not occurred to him that God would warn the wise men not to return to Herod. Bethlehem is only a few miles from Jerusalem. In the same way, God hides what and how His church does things from their enemies. In the same way, about 33 years later, those that later sought to kill Jesus had difficulty finding Him until Judas betrayed his location. In the same way that the religious leaders sent spies to watch Jesus, so today there are enemies of the cross that spy out the liberty of those that follow Christ–ref Gal 2:4. The verses continue–
Mt 2:9. (AFTER) THEY HAD (LISTENED TO) THE KING,
THEY DEPARTED. Note, not one person from Jerusalem went with them to seek and worship the Messiah. Not one of His kinsmen (the Jews) even seemed curious enough to go to a nearby town, yet the wise men came from a distant land. The verse continues–
AND, (BEHOLD), THE STAR, WHICH THEY SAW IN THE EAST. Note, first they departed from Herod. They continued their journey in faith. Then the star which they had not apparently seen since they were in the east–
WENT (IN FRONT OF) THEM. Up to this point it had not said that the star went before them. They had only seen His star when they were in the east. Now this (seemingly) bright object has transported itself to the area of Jerusalem. It did not say if it was day or night when they departed. The object might have been so bright that they could see it in the day time. 2 Pe 1:19 does refer to Jesus with the words–day star. This star might have been an angel in the sky leading them.
As we observe at night, the stars and moon move from east to west across the sky. Likewise, the sun follows its course from east to west. Bethlehem, however, is about 5 miles south of Jerusalem. This star that appeared to them in the east now reappears and directs them southward. The children of Israel had been led by a pillar of fire by night–ref Ex 13:21, as they went to the Promised Land. The shepherds were alerted by angels regarding the birth of Christ the Lord. The wise men were led by a star as they sought the King of the Jews. The verse continues–
TILL IT CAME AND (STOPPED)
OVER WHERE THE YOUNG CHILD WAS. The star stopped moving when it was over the place where the young child Jesus was. It appears that the star (or light) was at a low altitude, as it would be hard for a distant star or even something as close as the moon to pinpoint being over a certain building from distant space.
God’s word now calls the babe a young child, not a new born infant or babe as in Lk 2:12. This indicates that some time had passed since He had been born.
The star now comes to a complete stop at a specific place–where the young child was. Exactly what this star was is not specified. Whether or not others could also see the star is not mentioned. Whatever the object was, it looked like a star and could appear and disappear. It could move very slowly (such as the speed they were traveling on camels) and in any direction. It obviously moved at a very low altitude and came to a stop, while hovering directly over the house, where Joseph, Mary and the young child were. If the wise men traveled during the daytime and followed the star to Bethlehem, then it must have been very bright to be seen during the day. If they traveled at night, then perhaps it was bright enough to distinguish it from other lights of the night sky and enabled them to see so they would not stumble–ref Jn 11:9,10. Yet, on the other hand, it might not have been overly bright, as no one else seemed to observe and follow it. Note the verse, Jn 11:10, has another meaning which is not covered here.
Once they arrived where the young child was, there is no more mention of the star. Perhaps after they went in, it just disappeared. The verses continue–
Mt 2:10. WHEN THEY SAW THE STAR, THEY (WERE OVERJOYED). Did they begin to doubt when no one in Jerusalem seemed to know that the birth of the King of the Jews had taken place? But now they see the star again. It seems that they had not seen the star since they left the east and started their long journey to Jerusalem. They were overjoyed.
Mt 2:11. AND WHEN THEY WERE COME INTO THE HOUSE. Note, contrary to popular tradition, they did not come to a stable but to a house. The Messiah had already been born. Some time had passed and now Joseph and Mary were residing in some house. All indications were that the house was located somewhere in the vicinity of Bethlehem, as noted in verse Mt 2:16. It is here that the wise men came, not to some stable. Note that Mt 2:1, 8 had shown that the wise men came to Jerusalem and then on to Bethlehem sometime AFTER Jesus had been born. We know of no biblical evidence that the wise men traveled to Nazareth as a few believe. The verse continues–
THEY SAW THE YOUNG CHILD. Once again, the King of the Jews is being referred to as a young child, not as a newborn babe. Verse 16 gives the indication that the child was under 2 years old. The young child is mentioned first, and Mary is mentioned after. The verse continues–
WITH MARY HIS MOTHER. Joseph is not mentioned at this time. The verse continues–
AND (they) FELL DOWN, AND WORSHIPED HIM. First, the wise men humbled and presented themselves. They were fully persuaded that this was the long awaited Messiah, the King of the Jews. They worshipped the Messiah, indicating that they recognized who He was and that He is deity. There is no mention that they gave any such honor to Herod when they were in Jerusalem.
After they had worshipped they gave gifts. The verse continues–
AND WHEN THEY HAD OPENED THEIR (BAGS), THEY PRESENTED (TO) HIM GIFTS. The gifts that were presented were fitting for the King and showed their love. First was given–
GOLD. Gold is presented to the Messiah–the King of the Jews. Gold can represent divinity (note Hag 2:7,8). All indications are that Joseph and Mary were very poor. The gold may have been used to sustain the family in their travels to come. The verse continues–
AND FRANKINCENSE (or incense). This is a fragrance or spice, a reflection of His life. Further references to frankincense in the Bible can be found in Ex 30:34; Lev 2:1, 2, 15, 16; 5:11; 6:15; 24:7; Num 5:15; 1 Chr 9:29; Neh 13:5,9; SOS 3:6; 4:6, 14; and Rev 18:13. The verse continues–
AND MYRRH. This is something that is used in a burial. Further references to myrrh can be found in Gen 37:25; 43:11; Ex 30:23; Es 20:23; Ps 45:8; Pv 7:17; SOS 1:13; 3:6; 4:6, 14; 5:1,5,13; Mk 15:23; and Jn 19:39.
It has been suggested that the gifts were representative of Jesus as the King, the Son of God and the Messiah that would be killed.
Note that the wise men were seeking a person not a religion. Salvation does not come through a religion, a denomination, a church, or some priest, preacher or evangelist or some fancy building, synagogue, or temple, or through a ritual, ceremony, or special service. It comes only through trusting in the person of Jesus.
Once they departed, they may have planned to go back to Herod and tell him where the King of the Jews was located. However, God took steps to insure this would not happen. As it is written–
Mt 2:12. AND BEING (divinely) WARNED (BY) GOD IN A DREAM. Some believe that they had asked God for direction and He warned them in a dream not to return to Herod. The verse continues–
THAT THEY (which is plural). The verse continues–
SHOULD NOT RETURN (back) TO HEROD,
THEY (RETURNED) INTO THEIR OWN COUNTRY. The word country is singular. The verse continues–
(by) ANOTHER WAY. It appears that all of the wise men were warned in a dream about not returning back to Herod. They may not have sensed the treachery that was in Herod’s heart in wanting to kill Jesus. Those that are pure in heart may sometimes be deceived into thinking that some others are the same way.
The country that they were from is not mentioned. They obeyed God and did not doubt the dream which they had received.
What a tragedy it is that so few seek the Jesus of the Bible as these wise men did.
Mt 2:13. AND (AFTER THEY HAD GONE). It appears that it was but a very short time after the wise men had gone that–
BEHOLD, THE ANGEL OF THE LORD. Other references in the Bible regarding the angel of the lord appear in the following:
Mt 1:21–The angel of the Lord appeared unto Joseph in a dream.
Mt 1:24–Joseph…did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him.
Mt 2:19–When Herod was dead, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph.
Mt 28:2–The angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone.
Lk 1:11–There appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.
Lk 2:9–And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
Acts 5:19–But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth.
Acts 7:30–And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush.
Acts 8:26–And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.
Acts 12:7–And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands.
Acts 12:23–And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost. The verse continues–
(APPEARED) TO JOSEPH IN A DREAM, SAYING. God normally speaks to us through His Word (the Bible) and in other ways also. However, in some cases, God does speak to us in a dream. Satan also can speak to us in dreams. Thus, the Scriptures must always be the final and ultimate source of authority, proving or disproving what we believe God would have us to do. This is the second time that God appeared to Joseph in a dream (ref Mt 1:20; 2:13; 2:19; and 2:22). How wonderful it is that those that belong to Christ through trust have a direct line to God in heaven to communicate both ways. The verse continues–
(GET UP), AND TAKE THE YOUNG CHILD Again Jesus is called a young child, not a new born babe. The verse continues–
AND HIS MOTHER. The young child is mentioned first, not His mother. The verse continues–
AND FLEE (or escape). God is telling to go with haste and do not hesitate. The verse continues–
INTO EGYPT. Egypt was chosen to fulfill the prophecy of Hos 11:1–When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt. This prophecy is referring to Israel, but also implications are that it is also of Jesus as seen in Mt 2:15. The verse continues–
AND (STAY) THERE UNTIL I (TELL YOU TO LEAVE–JNT): Even though Mary was highly favored among women, yet Joseph, her husband was given direction by the Lord regarding moving the family. God tells Joseph several things. 1–In the dream, He says, “Get up.” 2–God tells Joseph whom to take, 3–how to do it–flee 4–where to go, and 5–how long to stay there. God did not leave Joseph and Mary without hope. God shows Joseph that he will hear from him again when the time is right. Number 6–God then tells Joseph the reason he must flee. The verse continues–
FOR HEROD WILL (SEARCH) (or look for) THE YOUNG CHILD
(IN ORDER TO KILL HIM–JNT). God will sometimes warn us of impending danger and make a way for us to escape. He tells Joseph what Herod intends to do and the reason. God could have struck Herod dead at this time. He could have sent angels to stop Herod and the soldiers. He did not. He used natural means to escape the problem.
This is an example of what Satan will sometimes try to do to those whose light shines brightly for Jesus, that will not back down from proclaiming the full Gospel, and that will obey God. God wants His people to depend upon Him.
As God told Israel (which is Jacob) ref Gen 46:1–4 FEAR NOT TO GO DOWN INTO EGYPT, now God tells Joseph to flee into Egypt.
Satan knew from Gen 3:15 that the seed of the woman would one day bruise his head. Satan wanted to kill the Messiah, the King of the Jews. It is written Rev 12:4–…THE DRAGON (which is Satan) STOOD BEFORE THE WOMAN WHICH WAS READY TO BE DELIVERED, FOR TO DEVOUR HER CHILD AS SOON AS IT WAS BORN.
From the very beginning, there appeared to be problems, but God was in control. Joseph and Mary were poor. When Mary’s time to deliver a child was almost at hand, they had to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem (app. 66 to 90 miles, depending on which path they took). There were no buses or cars to take them there. Then there was no place for them at the inn, even though Mary was about to bring forth a child. The King of the Jews was delivered in an area that housed animals and would have smelled as such. Not long after (within 2 years) Herod, prompted by Satan seeks to kill the young child, and they have to flee to another country. The life of Jesus, once He began teaching, was filled with persecutions, false accusations, and he had not where to lay his head–ref Mt 8:20. Ultimately, He was beaten, marred more than any man–ref Isa 52:14, and hung on a cross. Indeed, Jesus was tempted in all points as we are, yet without sin–ref Heb 4:15. The life of a person that follows Jesus is often filled with what appears to be difficult situations, but God is totally in control.
Mt 2:14. WHEN HE (GOT UP), HE TOOK THE YOUNG CHILD
AND HIS MOTHER (DURING THE) NIGHT. Note, the young child is again mentioned before His mother. It is noted that Joseph got up immediately, even though it was still night. This indicates that when they left, no one may have seen or even known that they departed or where they were going. There were to leave in secrecy, insuring there would be no one to tell the solders that would soon be coming. First Joseph is mentioned, then the young child and His mother after. Mary is not mentioned before Jesus, but after. The verse continues–
AND (LEFT FOR) EGYPT. Joseph obeyed God without hesitation. Mary appears, without hesitation, to have obeyed her husband Joseph. She did not doubt that God was giving direction to her husband for what the family should do. No mention is given that she in any way argued with her husband over this matter. Joseph, as with Abraham, appeared to go forth, yet not knowing where he was going. It has been stated that there was a large Jewish population in a certain area in Egypt at this time. They undoubtedly would have been welcomed by their own people and blended in.
Mt 2:15. AND (STAYED) THERE
UNTIL THE DEATH OF HEROD. Joseph obeyed God. It does not appear that Herod lived very many years after he had many children killed, hoping that the king that had been born might be among them. It is estimated by some that Herod died around 4 BC. The difference in the calendar’s dating today as opposed to then is debated and can vary by several years. It is estimated by some that they continued in Egypt from a few weeks to two years. The verse continues–
THAT IT MIGHT BE FULFILLED WHICH WAS SPOKEN OF THE LORD
BY THE PROPHET, SAYING,
OUT OF EGYPT HAVE I CALLED MY SON. Jesus is called by God as MY SON. Through this event additional prophecy in the Old Testament was fulfilled. It is written in Num 24:8–GOD BROUGHT HIM FORTH OUT OF EGYPT; HE HATH AS IT WERE THE STRENGTH OF AN UNICORN: HE SHALL EAT UP THE NATIONS HIS ENEMIES, AND SHALL BREAK THEIR BONES, AND PIERCE THEM THROUGH WITH HIS ARROWS. It was originally written approximately 1423 BC. The same words are used in Hos 11:1, regarding Israel–WHEN ISRAEL WAS A CHILD, THEN I LOVED HIM, AND CALLED MY SON OUT OF EGYPT. Hosea was written about 723 BC. Both Israel and Jesus are called My Son in the Scriptures. Both were loved. Both went to Egypt. Both were called out of Egypt.
Mt 2:16. THEN HEROD,
WHEN HE (REALIZED) THAT HE WAS MOCKED (or tricked, or outwitted, or deceived)
OF THE WISE MEN (or Magi),
(he) WAS (ENRAGED) (or furious, or angry). The more sinful a person’s pursuit may be, the more enraged he may become when he is met with obstacles. Herod wanted to kill the King of the Jews. When he was met with the obstacle that the wise men did not return to tell him where the King of the Jews was, he was enraged. The Pharisees wanted to kill Jesus about 32 years later. When Jesus raised Lazarus from the grave, they wanted to kill Lazarus also. The wise men did not intend to deceive Herod, but chose to obey God rather than Herod. Herod was enraged. He was accustomed to people obeying him.
There are times when people want a born again Christian to do things which are contrary to God’s Word. When the born again Christian obeys God in such instances rather then men, the people may become very angry. The verse continues–
AND SENT FORTH, AND (GAVE ORDERS TO KILL–NIV)
ALL THE (male) CHILDREN (or boys)
THAT WERE IN BETHLEHEM,
AND IN ALL THE COASTS (or environs, or vicinity, or districts) THEREOF.
FROM TWO YEARS OLD AND UNDER. God forbid, the male children in Bethlehem and the vicinity surrounding Bethlehem from 2 years old and younger were killed. All the children in Israel were not killed. The verse continues–
ACCORDING TO (or calculating) THE TIME WHICH HE HAD DILIGENTLY INQUIRED (or ascertained, or learned, or determined)
(FROM) THE WISE MEN (or Magi). From this Scripture, many believe that the wise men visited the young child Jesus when he was from 1 to less than 2 years old. The fact that God had Joseph, the child Jesus, and Mary depart for Egypt showed that Jesus would have been included in those that were killed. It confirms his approximate age at this time and that they were still living in the vicinity of Bethlehem, not in Nazareth. Some believe that the two years could have been taking into account the time from which the wise men had first seen His star in the east. Herod would have seemingly also included children older than the King of the Jews was believed to be to insure that He was killed.
Mt 2:17. THEN WAS FULFILLED THAT WHICH WAS SPOKEN BY JEREMIAH THE PROPHET, SAYING. This horrible action and the results were foretold in the Old Testament.
Mt 2:18. IN (RAMAH). Ramah (or Rama) means elevated. It has been identified as a town that is in Benjamin which is near to Gibeah. The verse continues–
WAS THERE A VOICE HEARD,
LAMENTATION, AND WEEPING, AND GREAT MOURNING (or sobbing and lamenting loudly–JNT),
(It was) RACHEL. This is a reference to the Rachel who was Jacob’s wife. Jacob was also called Israel. She was the mother of Joseph and Benjamin. Her grave is in Bethlehem and can be seen by tourists. It is written Gen 35:19–AND RACHEL DIED, AND WAS BURIED IN THE WAY TO EPHRATH, WHICH IS BETHLEHEM. The verse continues–
WEEPING (or sobbing) FOR HER CHILDREN,
AND WOULD NOT (or refused to) BE COMFORTED,
BECAUSE THEY (ARE NO LONGER ALIVE–JNT) (or were no more). This prophecy is written in the Old Testament in Jere 31:15–THUS SAITH THE LORD; A VOICE WAS HEARD IN RAMAH, LAMENTATION, AND BITTER WEEPING; RACHEL WEEPING FOR HER CHILDREN REFUSED TO BE COMFORTED FOR HER CHILDREN, BECAUSE THEY WERE NOT. This was written about 597 BC. As originally written, this verse appears to have been referring to the crying of a nation regarding the death of her children during the time of the Babylonian captivity; thus, the verse appears to have a double meaning or a second part.
As already mentioned, Satan wanted to destroy Jesus as soon as He was born. He worked through Herod. This dates back to Gen 3:15. As it is written, AND I WILL PUT ENMITY (or hatred) BETWEEN THEE (Satan) AND THE WOMAN (Israel), AND BETWEEN THY SEED AND HER SEED; IT SHALL BRUISE THY HEAD, AND THOU (Satan) SHALT BRUISE HIS HEEL.
As was already stated, it is further written, AND THE DRAGON (who is Satan) STOOD BEFORE THE WOMAN (which is Israel) WHICH WAS READY TO BE DELIVERED (or give birth), FOR TO DEVOUR (or so that he might devour–NIV) HER CHILD (which is Jesus) AS SOON AS (or the moment) IT WAS BORN.
Herod undoubtedly believed that he had succeeded in destroying the King of the Jews. Little did he probably foresee that his own death was not far off.
Mt 2:19. BUT WHEN HEROD WAS DEAD. Exactly how long this was after Herod has arranged for the children to be killed is not known. Some estimate Herod died around 4 B.C. Some may believe it was a bit later, perhaps 1 B.C. The verse continues–
BEHOLD, AN ANGEL OF THE LORD (or Adonai)
(APPEARED) IN A DREAM. Again God used a dream to communicate what He wished to convey. The verse continues–
TO JOSEPH IN EGYPT. As God had promised, in verse 13, He now appeared again to Joseph. This is the third time that God appeared to Joseph in a dream. Again, we note that the direction for the family was given to Joseph, Mary’s husband, not to Mary; as it is written, 1 Cor 11:3–BUT I WOULD HAVE YOU KNOW, THAT THE HEAD OF EVERY MAN IS CHRIST; AND THE HEAD OF THE WOMAN IS THE MAN; AND THE HEAD OF CHRIST IS GOD.
Eph 5:23–FOR THE HUSBAND IS THE HEAD OF THE WIFE, EVEN AS CHRIST IS THE HEAD OF THE CHURCH: AND HE IS THE SAVIOUR OF THE BODY.
Mt 2:20. SAYING, (GET UP). It is possible that they may have left Egypt at night, not telling others they were leaving or where they were going. The verse continues–
AND TAKE THE YOUNG CHILD. Jesus is still called the young child. Also, He is not called Joseph’s son. Exactly how much time had expired since they were in Egypt is not told. The wording would lead us to believe it may have been only a few months to a couple years. The verse continues–
AND HIS MOTHER. Again the young child is mentioned first, then His mother. The verse continues–
AND GO. When the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph previously, he was told to flee. This time he is told to go–
INTO THE LAND OF ISRAEL. God did not appear to tell Joseph where to go in Israel. This would come after he arrived there Often time God gives us only the next step to take, not the whole journey or picture. The verse continues–
FOR THEY ARE DEAD. The word they is used denoting more than one had sought to kill the young child. All that had sought to kill the KING OF THE JEWS had themselves now died but the young child Jesus was still alive. The verse continues–
WHICH (WERE TRYING TO TAKE–NIV) THE YOUNG CHILD’S LIFE. It is reported that Herod died a horrible death. There are times when persecuted Christians live to see God’s judgment upon those that came against them.
Through the dream Joseph was made aware of the death of those that wanted to kill Jesus–that is Herod the king and others. Even though Mary was highly favored with God, yet, again, it is noted that the direction to move the family was given to the husband and not Mary, as the husband is the head of the wife as covered in the commentary of Mt 2:19.
Herod had arranged for many to be slain as he was fearful another king would take his place. Yet the Lord had determined that Herod’s own death would be shortly after he had accomplished his evil act.
God is telling Joseph to take his family and return to Israel.
Mt 2:21. AND HE (GOT UP). As mentioned in verse 20, it is possible that they may have left Egypt at night, not telling others they were leaving or where they were going. The verse continues–
AND TOOK THE YOUNG CHILD
AND HIS MOTHER. Again the young child is mentioned first and then His mother. The verse continues–
AND CAME (back)
INTO THE LAND OF ISRAEL. Joseph obeyed God without hesitation. We note that the movement of the family was given to Joseph, the husband of Mary.
Throughout this chapter, the young child is mentioned first and then Mary or His mother comes afterward.
Regretfully, the Roman Catholic church often puts the mother above the child.
Lk 2:39 (pt 1). AND WHEN (JOSEPH AND MARY). Joseph, the husband is mentioned first and then Mary. When they–
HAD PERFORMED ALL THINGS
(REQUIRED BY) THE LAW OF THE LORD. Lk 2:18 covers the time period 40 days after the verse of Jesus. It is possible that these first words of Lk 2:39 go with Lk 2:38, then there is a time gap which includes the visit of the wise men, and the subsequent visit of Joseph, Jesus, and Mary to Egypt and then their return to Galilee.
GAP VERSES
LAW OF THE LORD
There are various verses in the Bible in which two different time periods are included in the same verse (a “gap” verse), while events that happened in between are omitted. There are others in which there is a large time gap between two verses. There are yet other cases in which the first verse or group of verses happened after the second verse (or group of verses). Should verse 39 be this case, then the coming of the wise men, the trip to Egypt and subsequent return to Israel would be placed after the words THE LAW OF THE LORD and before the word THEY. This would be the case if they believe THE LAW OF THE LORD means that they only performed those things required by the Law of Moses in Jerusalem. This kind of an omission (such as the visit of the wise men, and trip to Egypt and return) being included in one Gospel, but not in another, is very common in the 4 Gospels. This is one reason that putting the 4 Gospels together in a chronological order helps us understand, in much more depth, the various events that happened.
Another explanation for the words: AND WHEN (JOSEPH AND MARY) HAD PERFORMED ALL THINGS (REQUIRED BY) THE LAW OF THE LORD, being the first part of this verse is as follows—It did not say they performed all things according to the law of Moses, but according to the law of “the Lord.” This could include the prophesied going into Egypt and returning from Egypt to Israel. As it is written, I…CALLED MY SON OUT OF EGYPT–Hos 11:1; ref Mt 2:15.). Regarding the law of the Lord, the law of God, the law of thy God, the law of the Lord God, the law of the God of heaven, a law of the God of Jacob, some are mentioned in both the Old and New Testaments. In many verses it appears to be interchangeable with the Law of Moses, while in others (especially the New Testament) it may denote the whole counsel of God. The Law of the Lord also includes such things as the acts of Josiah–ref 2 Chr 35:26. There is also the law of the Spirit of life, law of liberty, and others.
Another explanation is that upon returning from Egypt to Israel, and subsequently to Nazareth, they may have been in the area of Jerusalem during a feast time, and thus performed all things (required by) the law of the Lord. The verses continue–
Mt 2:22. BUT WHEN HE HEARD THAT ARCHELAUS DID REIGN
(OVER) (JUDEA) (as king of Y’hudah–JNT)
IN (PLACE) (or instead) OF HIS FATHER HEROD. It is said that Archelaus, was a son of Herod by a Samaritan wife. He was now reigning over the areas of Judea, Samaria, and Idumea. He did not reign over all the area that his father did, however. Archelaus was also noted for his violence. The verse continues–
HE (which is Joseph) WAS AFRAID TO GO (THERE). Joseph might have thought he should return to Bethlehem, the city of David–ref Lk 2:4, which is where Jesus was born and which is the area they had left from when they went to Egypt. The verse continues–
NOTWITHSTANDING, BEING WARNED OF GOD IN A DREAM. This is the fourth time that God spoke to Joseph in a dream. The verse continues–
HE TURNED ASIDE (or departed, or withdrew)
INTO THE (REGIONS) (or district) OF GALILEE. God was guiding Joseph each step of the way, yet still he was afraid when he heard that Archelaus reigned. Sometimes God can use our fears to direct us, while other times Satan can use our fears to cause us to go astray.
The ruler of the regions or district of Galilee is reported to have been Antipas (or Philip). He was also a son of Herod, but it is said that he was not noted for the violent attitude of Archelaus.
Lk 2:39 (pt 2). THEY RETURNED INTO GALILEE, TO THEIR OWN CITY (or town of) NAZARETH. Joseph and Mary returning from Egypt (ref Mt 2:22,23) now return to their own city (Nazareth) in which they resided before they went to Bethlehem. Note, the Bible calls Nazareth THEIR OWN CITY. This is where the angel had appeared to Mary. Seemingly, both Joseph and Mary had lived there for some time in the past. They may have had many relatives there as well. Note: Luke’s Gospel omits the visit of the wise men and the trip to Egypt.
Mt 2:23. AND HE. As the head of the house, the term he is used. The verse continues–
CAME AND (SETTLED) (or resided, or lived)
IN A (TOWN) CALLED NAZARETH. They now return from the town from where they had left to go to Bethlehem, some months of years before. The verse continues–
THAT IT MIGHT BE FULFILLED WHICH WAS SPOKEN BY THE PROPHETS. (Note prophets is plural). The verse continues–
(that) HE SHALL BE CALLED A NAZARENE. This passage is not found in the current Old Testament of the King James Bible. Some believe it could be referring in part to Isa 53:3 which reads in part as follows…HE WAS DESPISED, AND WE ESTEEMED HIM NOT.
Both Joseph and Mary were in Nazareth when the angel Gabriel was sent from God to Mary. Now they return to their own city. This is referring that Christ came out from the town of Nazareth in which he was raised. Nazareth is not found in the Old Testament, but is mentioned in the New Testament about 28 times.
t is reported that people that lived in Nazareth were despised. It is further reported that this city housed Roman soldiers, and people in other regions thought that the people that lived in Nazareth consorted with the enemy. Jesus was also despised in many peoples eyes, and Nathanael said ref Jn 1:46–CAN THERE ANY GOOD THING COME OUT OF NAZARETH? To be called a Nazarene was to be despised in the eyes of many. It may be said it was a name of reproach and contempt. It may be said that a person which came from Nazareth would have no respect. As it was just said concerning Jesus–Isa 53:3–HE IS DESPISED AND REJECTED OF MEN;…AND WE ESTEEMED HIM NOT. Ps 22:6–BUT I AM A WORM, AND NO MAN; A REPROACH OF MEN, AND DESPISED OF THE PEOPLE. Those that follow Jesus are in like manner often despised and ridiculed. (For additional information on Nazareth, see Lk 1:26.)
Lk 2:40. AND THE CHILD GREW AND (BECAME) STRONG IN SPIRIT. This should be what may be said to be his inner self—His Personal Spirit and also stature of His body. He knew who He was. His trust was totally in His Father. He spoke and did that which was of His Father in Heaven. He became strong in spirit. The verse continues–
FILLED (or increasing) WITH WISDOM. Jesus is wisdom and is the source of wisdom for those that follow Him. God gave Solomon A WISE AND AN UNDERSTANDING HEART; SO THAT THERE WAS NONE LIKE THEE BEFORE THEE, NEITHER AFTER THEE SHALL ANY ARISE LIKE UNTO THEE–1 Ki 3:12. However, regarding the wisdom of Jesus, it is written–THE QUEEN OF THE SOUTH…SHE CAME FROM THE UTTERMOST PARTS OF THE EARTH TO HEAR THE WISDOM OF SOLOMON; AND, BEHOLD, A GREATER THAN SOLOMON IS HERE–Mt 12:42, ref Lk 11:31.
True strength and wisdom for the real born again Christian is from the Word of God, from which faith comes. As a born again Christian receives God’s Word, humble themselves, and their repentant heart understands it, and they do God’s Word–their wisdom, their strength should increase, for by trust a person overcomes–ref 1 Jn 5:4. The Scriptures portray getting wisdom as the principal thing and far more important than rubies or other such things. God’s Word relates understanding God’s Word and fearing God with wisdom. It is written:
Pv 4:7–WISDOM IS THE PRINCIPAL THING; THEREFORE GET WISDOM: AND WITH ALL THY GETTING GET UNDERSTANDING.
Pv 16:16–HOW MUCH BETTER IS IT TO GET WISDOM THAN GOLD! AND TO GET UNDERSTANDING RATHER TO BE CHOSEN THAN SILVER!
Pv 8:11–FOR WISDOM IS BETTER THAN RUBIES; AND ALL THE THINGS THAT MAY BE DESIRED ARE NOT TO BE COMPARED TO IT.
Pv 9:10–THE FEAR OF THE LORD IS THE BEGINNING OF WISDOM: AND THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE HOLY IS UNDERSTANDING.
Pv 1:7–THE FEAR OF THE LORD IS THE BEGINNING OF KNOWLEDGE: BUT FOOLS DESPISE WISDOM AND INSTRUCTION.
Pv 15:33–THE FEAR OF THE LORD IS THE INSTRUCTION OF WISDOM; AND BEFORE HONOUR IS HUMILITY.
Job 28:28–…BEHOLD, THE FEAR OF THE LORD, THAT IS WISDOM; AND TO DEPART FROM EVIL IS UNDERSTANDING.
Jesus is the Word, yet the overwhelming evidence from the four Gospels is that Jesus spent much time studying the Scriptures, praying, and thanking God The verse continues–
AND THE GRACE (or favor) OF GOD WAS UPON HIM. Through the GRACE OF GOD Jesus was able to do and accomplish what He did. In Lk 2:52 it is written–AND JESUS INCREASED (or grew) IN WISDOM, (that is spiritual wisdom) AND STATURE, AND (gaining) IN FAVOR WITH GOD AND (OTHER PEOPLE). The child Jesus was raised as other children, yet He knew no sin–ref 2 Cor 5:21. Jesus was–IN ALL POINTS TEMPTED LIKE AS WE ARE, YET WITHOUT SIN–Heb 4:15. It is written, Pv 22:15–FOOLISHNESS IS BOUND IN THE HEART OF A CHILD; yet the dishonesty and foolishness that other children do, Jesus did not do. The verses continue–
Lk 2:41. NOW HIS PARENTS (which is referring to Joseph and Mary)–
WENT TO JERUSALEM EVERY YEAR AT THE FEAST (or festival) OF THE PASSOVER. This was required by the law of Moses. Actually, the Law required that all Israeli males go to appear before the Lord three times a year, as it is written in Deut 16:16–THREE TIMES IN A YEAR SHALL ALL THY MALES APPEAR BEFORE THE LORD THY GOD IN THE PLACE WHICH HE SHALL CHOOSE; (1) IN THE FEAST OF UNLEAVENED BREAD (which is usually in our April), (2) AND IN THE FEAST OF WEEKS (or Pentecost–which is 50 days later), (3) AND IN THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES (which occurs in September or October): AND THEY SHALL NOT APPEAR BEFORE THE LORD EMPTY. Worldly business is of secondary importance. Obeying God and doing His will is what is important. Thus, our worldly business and concerns must give way to the things of God. Regretfully, few people in this generation understand this. Though the only begotten Son of God was with them in their house, they still kept this required feast. It is most likely that Joseph also went to the other two feasts each year (Pentecost and Tabernacles) while both Joseph and Mary attended the Passover each year.
Lk 2:42. AND WHEN HE WAS TWELVE YEARS OLD,
THEY WENT UP TO JERUSALEM
(ACCORDING TO) THE CUSTOM OF THE FEAST. The feast of Passover is followed by the Feast of Unleavened Bread. Thus the time they stayed in Jerusalem may have been 7 to 8 days. At the age of 12, Jesus also went with His parents. It was at the age of 12 years that a Jewish boy would begin to be looked upon as a man. This was probably not the first time that Jesus had gone to this feast. The Feast of Firstfruits is also included within this time period.
Regarding Passover, about 21 years later, Jesus Christ died on Passover at 3 p.m.–ref Mk 15:34–37, as the fourteenth day of Nisan was drawing to a close. FOR EVEN CHRIST OUR PASSOVER IS SACRIFICED FOR US–ref 1 Cor 5:6,7.
Regarding Unleavened Bread, He was buried on the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which began a short time later, at evening, the fifteenth day of Nisan–the exact date that God had ordained.
Regarding Firstfruits, Jesus Christ, our Passover, our Unleavened Bread, rose from the dead on this feast, the first day of the week. God set the date; it was fulfilled precisely according to His timetable. Because of this, Sunday became known as the LORD’S DAY, which many Christian believers began to observe as their day of rest. BUT NOW IS CHRIST RISEN FROM THE DEAD, AND BECOME THE FIRSTFRUITS OF THEM THAT SLEEP–1 Cor 15:20. Joseph and Mary did not understand at this time the significance of these three feasts and how they related to Jesus. The verses continue–
Lk 2:43. AND WHEN THEY HAD FULFILLED
THE (full number of) DAYS (or after the feast was over–NIV). The total number of days for the Passover and Unleavened Bread should be 8. Thus, after 8 days–
AS THEY (Joseph and Mary, and perhaps other family members)–
RETURNED (home), which was at Nazareth–
THE CHILD JESUS
(STAYED) BEHIND IN JERUSALEM. Where Jesus slept or who he may have stayed with in Jerusalem is not revealed. The verse continues–
AND JOSEPH AND HIS MOTHER (or parents). It did not say His father, in regards to Joseph as Joseph was not His actual father but rather just uses his name Joseph, however it does mention His mother as Mary was His actual mother. The verse continues–
(WERE UNAWARE) OF IT.
Lk 2:44. BUT THEY,
(THINKING HE WAS) (somewhere) IN THE (CARAVAN),
WENT A DAY’S JOURNEY (on the road). A day’s journey would normally have been around 20 miles. It has been suggested however, that the first day of such a journey might have been less so if someone forgot something, they could return quickly and retrieve it and then rejoin the group. The verse continues–
AND (then) THEY (Joseph and Mary)–
(BEGAN SEARCHING FOR) HIM (the child Jesus)–
AMONG THEIR (RELATIVES) AND (FRIENDS). Many people went to Jerusalem for the Passover. Thus, the roads were probably crowded with people. Also the caravan was probably very long. There were undoubtedly several groups of friends and relatives in the large caravan traveling from Jerusalem to the area of Nazareth. They might have begun searching for Jesus at a stopping off or resting place along the way.
Jesus had now reached the age of twelve. Joseph and His mother would have trusted him and were not at first concerned believing that he was with relatives and friends.
The distance they had to travel should have been 65 to 90 miles depending on which way they went. God did not choose to show Joseph and Mary that Jesus was not in the caravan right away.
Lk 2:45. AND WHEN THEY (Joseph and Mary)–
FOUND HIM NOT,
THEY TURNED BACK AGAIN TO JERUSALEM,
SEEKING HIM. Both Joseph and Mary were righteous before God. Mary was highly favored with God, yet did God show them immediately where the child Jesus was located?–the answer is no. They were undoubtedly worried and filled with anxiety.
Lk 2:46. AND IT CAME TO PASS, THAT AFTER THREE DAYS (or on the third day–JNT). The scripture is not clear regarding from what time the 3 days came after, whether from the time they left Jerusalem or from the time they turned back to return to Jerusalem. The verse continues–
THEY FOUND HIM IN THE TEMPLE (courts). Therefore, counting about a day’s journey they had traveled from Jerusalem and allowing one day to return and part of a day looking for Him–thus, from the time they left Jerusalem, they found Jesus on the third day–
SITTING (AMONG) THE DOCTORS (or teachers, or rabbis),
BOTH (LISTENING TO) THEM,
AND ASKING THEM QUESTIONS. It appears that Jesus was having a deep theological conversation with some of the religious leaders. They did not find Jesus playing games with other boys or sightseeing in Jerusalem, as most other children his age would probably been doing. How many hours this had been going on is not mentioned, neither if He had done this the day before.
Lk 2:47. AND ALL THAT HEARD HIM WERE ASTONISHED
AT HIS UNDERSTANDING (or insight) AND ANSWERS. Jesus listened, asked questions, had great understanding, and answered their questions. All that heard were astonished at the understanding that Jesus had. The fact is that His understanding was far beyond that of the religious leaders. Little did they suspect that this 12 year boy was the living Word that was born of the virgin Mary and God was His Father. Little did they suspect that 12 years before, this was the One the wise men had sought after. Little did they remember that it may have been some of them that Herod had consulted with about where Christ should be born–ref Mt 2:4. Little did they understand that about 18 years later, this same Jesus, the Christ, would come on the scene. How little they understood that this very Person was the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, even God Himself, the long awaited Messiah.
It is written: Ps 119:97–104–O HOW LOVE I THY LAW! IT IS MY MEDITATION ALL THE DAY. THOU THROUGH THY COMMANDMENTS HAST MADE ME WISER THAN MINE ENEMIES: FOR THEY ARE EVER WITH ME. I HAVE MORE UNDERSTANDING THAN ALL MY TEACHERS: FOR THY TESTIMONIES ARE MY MEDITATION. I UNDERSTAND MORE THAN THE ANCIENTS, BECAUSE I KEEP THY PRECEPTS. I HAVE REFRAINED MY FEET FROM EVERY EVIL WAY, THAT I MIGHT KEEP THY WORD. I HAVE NOT DEPARTED FROM THY JUDGMENTS: FOR THOU HAST TAUGHT ME. HOW SWEET ARE THY WORDS UNTO MY TASTE! YEA, SWEETER THAN HONEY TO MY MOUTH! THROUGH THY PRECEPTS I GET UNDERSTANDING: THEREFORE I HATE EVERY FALSE WAY.
Lk 2:48. AND WHEN (HIS PARENTS) SAW HIM,
THEY WERE (SHOCKED). What did his parents see? They saw Jesus in the Temple courts sitting among the doctors (or rabbi or teachers) both listening to them and asking them questions. It would appear from the content of these verses that Jesus had not shown the knowledge He possessed from His Father in heaven to Joseph and His mother up to this time. The verse continues–
AND HIS MOTHER SAID (TO) HIM. Note that Mary did not accuse Jesus but asked Him a question. She then expressed how they had searched for Him and how they felt when they could not find Him.
She said–
SON, WHY (HAVE) (YOU) (TREATED) US (which is plural)
(THIS WAY)?
BEHOLD, (YOUR) FATHER AND I. Note, the Scriptures do not refer to Joseph as the father of Jesus, as God in heaven was His father. However, Mary was greatly concerned as she had lost her son. She mistakenly refers to Joseph as His father. Joseph was His foster father. The verse continues–
HAVE (BEEN…SEARCHING FOR) (YOU).
(I HAVE BEEN TERRIBLY WORRIED–JNT). Her tone appears to be one of frustration. Undoubtedly, the relatives back in the caravan were also worried.
Lk 2:49. AND HE (Jesus)–
SAID (TO) THEM,
(WHY) IS IT THAT (YOU) (HAVE TO LOOK FOR–JNT) ME? These are the first words that are recorded in the Bible (chronologically) that Jesus spoke. They are also the first words recorded in Luke’s Gospel that He spoke. They came in the form of a question.
The second thing Jesus is recorded as saying is–
(DID) (YOU) NOT (know)
THAT I MUST BE (CONCERNING) (Myself with)
MY FATHER’S (AFFAIRS) (or that I had to be in My Father’s house–NIV)? He was now 12 years old. Jesus was telling them that what He was doing was of His heavenly Father (which was His true Father). He seemed surprised that they did not understand. They would have also been worried about His safety. He would not have been worried.
His words were those of gently correcting His mother. He had gone to His true Father's house. This reveals that He was aware at this age of who He really was and His mission. It appears that He spoke these things in front of the religious leaders also, but the meaning of what He said was hidden from them.
Lk 2:50. AND THEY (his parents)
UNDERSTOOD NOT THE (STATEMENT)
WHICH HE (Jesus) (SPOKE) (TO) THEM (or they didn’t understand what He meant–JNT). Joseph and Mary did not understand that what Jesus was doing was ordained of His heavenly Father.
HAD JOSEPH AND MARY FORGOTTEN WHO JESUS REALLY WAS?
Jesus was so human that it seems as if Mary had somewhat forgotten what the angel had spoken to her in Lk 1:32, and Elizabeth had spoken in Lk 1:43,45. It is as if Joseph had forgotten the dream he had in Mt 1:20,21. It is as if they had forgotten the shepherds in Lk 2:16. It is as if Mary had forgotten those things which she had pondered in her heart in Lk 2:19. It is as if they had forgotten about the wise men in Mt 2:1,11 and Simeon in Lk 2:25–35 and Anna in Lk 2:36–38. Perhaps, after 12 years of raising the child, some of these memories had faded. They seem to have forgotten that Jesus was actually God, who had come to this earth in human form and that He had a mission. The verses continue–
Lk 2:51. AND (so) HE WENT DOWN WITH THEM. As a person would leave Jerusalem to go to Nazareth, they would go down in elevation, thus, the word down is used, even though they travel north.
The verse continues–
AND CAME TO NAZARETH,
AND (CONTINUED IN SUBJECTION) (or was obedient)
(TO) THEM. Lest anyone might think that Jesus was a disobedient son, this Scripture makes it clear He was obedient to His parents, note Eph 6:1–3–Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.
Col 3:20–Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. The verse continues–
BUT HIS MOTHER (STORED UP) ALL THESE SAYINGS (or things)
IN HER HEART. Similar words are also used in Lk 1:33 and 2:19. As time passed, Mary continued to store up in her heart the many events that were happening, as well as the words previously spoken to her by the angel, Elizabeth, Simeon, Anna, and the wise men. She kept in her heart God’s Word and the things of God, yet she did not understand many of them.
Undoubtedly, from this time on, Jesus would accompany Joseph to Jerusalem three times a year, and on one of these trips His mother would probably also come and possibly His younger half siblings. Whether He ever sat down with the doctors (or teachers or rabbi) again, during the next 18 years, is never mentioned.
Lk 2:52. AND JESUS INCREASED (or grew) IN WISDOM, that is spiritual wisdom. It is written–Heb 5:8–Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered. As a child and as an adult, we learn obedience to God, if we have ears to hear and eyes to see.
WISDOM AND THE FEAR OF THE LORD
FEAR OF THE LORD
As already mentioned in Lk 2:40 on the subject of wisdom, it is written Pv 9:10–THE FEAR OF THE LORD IS THE BEGINNING OF WISDOM: AND THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE HOLY IS UNDERSTANDING.
Pv 1:7–THE FEAR OF THE LORD IS THE BEGINNING OF KNOWLEDGE: BUT FOOLS DESPISE WISDOM AND INSTRUCTION.
Pv 15:33–THE FEAR OF THE LORD IS THE INSTRUCTION OF WISDOM; AND BEFORE HONOUR IS HUMILITY.
Job 28:28–…BEHOLD, THE FEAR OF THE LORD, THAT IS WISDOM; AND TO DEPART FROM EVIL IS UNDERSTANDING.
As Jesus grew, from an infant to adulthood, the image of God His father would shine brighter through Him. He totally obeyed and trusted in His Father.
However, a newborn Christian does not have the trust, understanding, and maturity in Christ that a person should attain through many years of studying God’s Word and walking with Christ through many hardships and sufferings. By reason of use a true Christian’s senses should be exercised to discern both good and evil–ref Heb 5:14. He should grow in the fear of God, in obedience to God, and love for the brethren and even his enemies.
A new born–again Christian must first learn the basic doctrines, the milk of the Word. Then when he reaches full age he can receive strong meat which is PERFECTION–ref Heb 6:1. Note–regretfully, in this Laodicean (lukewarm) church age, few people ever receive teaching on or understand perfection. Most never grow out of, or mature beyond, a carnal or worldly nature. Few preachers understand what the true meat of the Word is or even grow to this point. Many do not even preach on the milk of the word, the basics such as repentance, etc. The verse continues–
AND STATURE, (or height) or physically. The verse continues–
AND (gaining) IN FAVOR WITH GOD. esus did something that no man has ever done–He did not sin. He kept all the Law and obeyed perfectly His heavenly Father in all things. Even though He was God, regarding what He said and did, it is written in Jn 8:28–…I DO NOTHING OF MYSELF; BUT AS MY FATHER HATH TAUGHT ME…
JESUS DID AND SPOKE THAT WHICH WAS FROM HIS FATHER IN HEAVEN
Jn 8:38–I SPEAK THAT WHICH I HAVE SEEN WITH MY FATHER:
Jn 12:50–WHATSOEVER I SPEAK THEREFORE, EVEN AS THE FATHER SAID UNTO ME, SO I SPEAK.
Jn 14:10–THE WORDS THAT I SPEAK UNTO YOU I SPEAK NOT OF MYSELF: BUT THE FATHER THAT DWELLETH IN ME, HE DOETH THE WORKS.
If Jesus did the works He did on His own because He was God, how could believers be expected to do them for they are not God? As the Holy Spirit moved through Jesus to accomplish the things which He did, so in like manner the Holy Spirit moves through believers to enable them to do what they do.
Jn 5:19–THEN ANSWERED JESUS AND SAID UNTO THEM, VERILY, VERILY, I SAY UNTO YOU, THE SON CAN DO NOTHING OF HIMSELF, BUT WHAT HE SEETH THE FATHER DO: FOR WHAT THINGS SOEVER HE DOETH, THESE ALSO DOETH THE SON LIKEWISE.
Jn 5:30–Jesus said, I CAN OF MINE OWN SELF DO NOTHING.
Jn 9:33–Of Jesus it is written, IF THIS MAN WERE NOT OF GOD, HE COULD DO NOTHING.
Jn 15:5–Jesus said, I AM THE VINE, YE ARE THE BRANCHES: HE THAT ABIDETH IN ME, AND I IN HIM, THE SAME BRINGETH FORTH MUCH FRUIT: FOR WITHOUT ME YE CAN DO NOTHING.
This is why Paul said in 2 Cor 12:10 NIV–FOR CHRIST’S SAKE, I DELIGHT IN WEAKNESS, IN INSULTS, IN HARDSHIPS, IN PERSECUTIONS, IN DIFFICULTIES. FOR WHEN I AM WEAK, THEN I AM STRONG.It is when we are weak that CHRIST’S POWER MAY REST ON us–ref 1 Cor 12:9.
It is when we are weak that CHRIST’S POWER MAY REST ON us–ref 1 Cor 12:9. It is when we quit trusting in ourselves and trust totally in Him that HIS POWER IS MADE PERFECT IN us (that is in our WEAKNESS)–ref 1 Cor 12:9
We are not to trust in ourselves that we can do this or that, but we are to trust that God is working in us and through us. It is then that we can accomplish what we are called by Him to do. Therefore, when we trust in ourselves, we are actually weak; but when we trust in God, then we are strong. It is not by our own power or might, but it is by the power of God. It is by His Spirit and through our faith in God that we can go forth to accomplish the things which He has given us to do. It is through repentance, denying ourselves, and submitting to Him that our ungodly, worldly attitude can change. Believers are called to follow Jesus and predestinated TO BE CONFORMED TO THE IMAGE OF HIS SON–Ro 8:29. It is those that overcome that shall inherit all things–ref Rev 21:7. It is written: HE SHALL DIVIDE THE SPOIL WITH THE STRONG–Isa 53:12. Those that are like a wave, that will not submit to Jesus, that will not conform to His ways and allow Him to change them and their attitude, they shall surely perish.
As Jesus said, OF MYSELF I CAN DO NOTHING. The verse continues–
AND (OTHER PEOPLE). Socially, Jesus was also gaining favor with people that knew him. The people of His hometown and others that knew Him thought very highly of Him.
This verse covers Jesus from the time that He was 12 years old till the time He was revealed to Israel.
In Lk 2:40 it is written: AND THE CHILD (which is Jesus) GREW, AND (BECAME) STRONG IN SPIRIT, FILLED (or increasing) WITH WISDOM. AND THE GRACE (or favor) OF GOD WAS UPON HIM.
Other Scriptures are available that deal with Jesus prior to His revealing to Israel at about the age of 30. Lk 4:16–…NAZARETH, WHERE HE HAD BEEN BROUGHT UP: AND, AS HIS CUSTOM WAS (this is referring to the past), HE WENT INTO THE SYNAGOGUE ON THE SABBATH DAY, AND STOOD UP FOR TO READ. This shows that prior to His baptism by John, He would go to synagogue on the Sabbath and was allowed to read. It also appears to indicate that He was still in Nazareth.
Mark shows us that Jesus had become a carpenter and had at least 4 younger brothers and 2 or more sisters. It is written in Mk 6:3–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? No mention is made regarding Joseph in this verse; however, he is mentioned in Jn 6:42–AND THEY SAID, IS NOT THIS JESUS, THE SON OF JOSEPH, WHOSE FATHER AND MOTHER WE KNOW? It appears Joseph may have still been alive during this time, which was after the public ministry of Jesus began. However, it appears that he was not alive when Jesus was crucified; as it is written–Jn 19:27–THEN SAITH HE (Jesus) TO THE DISCIPLE (which was John), BEHOLD THY MOTHER! AND FROM THAT HOUR THAT DISCIPLE TOOK HER (Mary) UNTO HIS OWN HOME. It may have been that the brothers of Jesus had not yet believed in Him. The verses continue–
The subject now changes to John the Baptist.
Lk 1:80. AND THE CHILD. (Commentary: this is referring to John the Baptist). The verse continues–
GREW. (physically). He grew to manhood. How long his parents lived after his birth is not known. They were already well along in years when he was born–ref Lk 1:7. The verse continues–
AND (BECAME) STRONG IN SPIRIT, (or it may be said, he had inner strength–a person totally submitted to God). Undoubtedly, he was well–versed in the Scriptures. His father was a priest and both were righteous before God–ref Lk 1:5. The verse continues–
AND WAS (or lived) IN THE DESERTS. This is the deserts of the wilderness of Judaea. He may have lived in one of the few houses that were scattered in the area. It is possible his parents had passed on by this time. The verse continues–
(UNTIL) THE DAY. God had an exact day, an appointed day, for John to be revealed to Israel. The verse continues–
OF HIS (PUBLIC APPEARANCE) (or manifestation) (TO) ISRAEL. How many years he was in the deserts is not mentioned; however, he would have been about 30 when his public appearance to Israel began, based on Num 1:4 and the age that Jesus’ ministry began in Lk 3:23. Even though he was in the deserts, he would have still gone up to Jerusalem three times a year for the feasts.
This verse covers John the Baptist growing up till he was revealed to Israel.
God had a very special ministry for John the Baptist and an exact time for him to be revealed to Israel. Although his ministry would not last very long, it would have a lasting effect on many people to this very day; as it is written in Lk 1:17–AND HE SHALL GO (out) (as a forerunner) BEFORE HIM (or ahead of) (the Lord) IN THE SPIRIT AND POWER OF ELIJAH, TO TURN THE HEARTS OF THE FATHERS (back) TO THE CHILDREN, AND THE DISOBEDIENT TO THE WISDOM (or attitude) OF THE (RIGHTEOUS); TO MAKE READY A PEOPLE PREPARED FOR THE LORD. Note the words, IN THE SPIRIT…OF ELIJAH. Jesus said of John the Baptist–Lk 7:28–FOR I SAY UNTO YOU, AMONG THOSE THAT ARE BORN OF WOMEN THERE IS NOT A GREATER PROPHET THAN JOHN THE BAPTIST…
Note the commentary on this verse under Lk 1:17.
Both the childhood of Jesus and John the Baptist are only mentioned briefly.
Lk 3:1. NOW IN THE FIFTEENTH YEAR
OF THE REIGN OF (EMPEROR TIBERIUS). (He is reported to have been the third emperor, or Caesar, out of twelve). John’s ministry started in the 15th year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar. It is reported that Tiberius was the ruler over the Roman Empire from about 12 or 14 A.D. to 37 A.D. The verse continues–
PONTIUS PILATE BEING GOVERNOR (or president, or procurator)
OF (JUDEA). It is reported that Pontius Pilate was the governor of Judea from about 26 A.D. to 36 A.D. The verse continues–
AND HEROD BEING TETRARCH (or ruler) OF GALILEE. It is reported that Herod (Antipas) ruled over Galilee from about 4 B.C. to 39 AD which is over 40 years. The verse continues–
AND HIS BROTHER PHILIP TETRARCH (or ruler) OF (ITUREA)
AND OF THE REGION OF TRACHONITIS. It is reported that Philip ruled the area of Trachonitis (east of the Jordan) (northeast of the sea of Galilee) from about 4 B.C. to 34 B.C. The verse continues–
AND LYSANIAS (was) THE TETRARCH (or ruler) OF ABILENE. Lysanias ruled in Abilene, an area northwest of Damascus (or the area today which may be referred to as Southern Lebanon).
Israel was a conquered nation. They were under the authority of Rome. When they would later hear of the Messiah, they would believe that Jesus had come to deliver them from being under the Rome’s yoke because of what the Scriptures said. They did not comprehend a suffering Messiah that would die for the sins of all that would obey Him.
Lk 3:2. ANNAS AND CAIAPHAS BEING THE HIGH PRIESTS. It is reported that Annas was the high priest until about 15 A.D., but was dethroned by the Roman authorities. It is reported that Annas was the father–in–law of Caiaphas. Caiaphas later occupied the office of high priest, however the Jews sill recognized Annas as the high priest. Some believe they served alternating years. The verse continues–
THE WORD OF GOD CAME (TO) JOHN. The ordaining authority for the ministry of John was not of man but by the Word of God. The verse continues–
THE SON OF ZACHARIAS. John was from the priest class. His father Zacharias was a priest, and his mother was of the daughters of Aaron–ref Lk 1:5. Thus, John would have been in line to be a priest himself in the Temple, but he was not. He had a much higher calling of God. The Word came to John–
IN THE WILDERNESS (or desert). As already mentioned, John would have been about 30 years old. In some way, God spoke to John perhaps in John’s Spirit, perhaps in a voice, perhaps in a dream, or perhaps an angel appeared to him. God spoke to John while he was in the wilderness where it appears he had been for a long time.
The preaching of the Gospel (the New Testament) begins not in a large city but in the wilderness.
Jn 1:6. THERE WAS A MAN
(who was) SENT FROM GOD. Lk 3:2 had told us that the “Word of God came to John” and now John tells us that John (who was later called the Baptist) was sent from God. He was not sent by man. His calling (or mission), instructions, message, work, and even the timing was ordained by God. The verse continues–
WHOSE NAME WAS JOHN. (Note, when reading this, a person can cite several other verses with it). It is written of John,
Lk 1:15. Lk 1:15. FOR HE SHALL BE GREAT IN THE SIGHT OF THE LORD, AND SHALL DRINK NEITHER (or is never to drink–JNT) WINE (or other liquor) (or) STRONG DRINK (or fermented drink); AND HE SHALL BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY GHOST (or Spirit), EVEN FROM HIS MOTHER’S WOMB..
Jn 1:8–John…WAS SENT TO (TESTIFY) (CONCERNING) THAT LIGHT (which is Jesus).
Jesus said of John the Baptist in Mt 11:11–VERILY I SAY UNTO YOU, AMONG THEM THAT ARE BORN OF WOMEN THERE HATH NOT RISEN A GREATER THAN JOHN THE BAPTIST: NOTWITHSTANDING HE THAT IS LEAST IN THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IS GREATER THAN HE.
Jn 1:7. (HE) (which is John the Baptist)–
CAME FOR A WITNESS (or testimony),
TO (TESTIFY). It is also written of John,
JOHN (later called the Baptist)–IT IS WRITTEN OF HIM
Lk 1:17–AND HE (which is John) SHALL GO (out) (as a forerunner) BEFORE HIM (or ahead of) (the Lord) IN THE SPIRIT AND POWER OF ELIJAH, TO TURN THE HEARTS OF THE FATHERS (back) TO THE CHILDREN, AND THE DISOBEDIENT TO THE WISDOM (or attitude) OF THE (RIGHTEOUS); TO MAKE READY A PEOPLE PREPARED FOR THE LORD.
Lk 1:16–AND MANY OF THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL SHALL HE (BRING BACK) TO THE LORD THEIR GOD.
Jn 1:19, 23–AND (now) THIS IS THE (WITNESS) OF JOHN, WHEN THE JEWS SENT (to him) PRIESTS AND LEVITES FROM JERUSALEM TO ASK HIM, WHO (ARE) (YOU)? HE SAID, I AM THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS (or desert), MAKE STRAIGHT THE WAY OF THE LORD, AS SAID THE PROPHET (ISAIAH). His message is also in Mt 3:3–…PREPARE YE THE WAY OF THE LORD.
Many of the Old Testament prophets told of the coming of Jesus, but John the Baptist let people know that Jesus was to come after him; as it is written, Mt 3:11,12–BUT HE THAT COMETH AFTER ME IS MIGHTIER THAN I, WHOSE SHOES I AM NOT WORTHY TO BEAR: HE SHALL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY GHOST, AND WITH FIRE: WHOSE FAN IS IN HIS HAND, AND HE WILL THROUGHLY PURGE HIS FLOOR, AND GATHER HIS WHEAT INTO THE GARNER; BUT HE WILL BURN UP THE CHAFF WITH UNQUENCHABLE FIRE. Following this, John preached that He is now here as he said in Jn 1:29–…BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD, WHICH TAKETH AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD.
Jn 1:34–AND I (which is John the Baptist) SAW, AND BARE RECORD THAT THIS IS THE SON OF GOD.
In this blind and lukewarm Laodicean generation, most so–called professing Christians will seldom, if ever, witness or testify to others about the Lord Jesus Christ. Neither do their fruits bear witness that they have been born again. John the Baptist was faithful to His calling to be a witness and to testify.
The verse continues–
(CONCERNING) THE LIGHT, (which is Jesus). Jesus is the light of the world, a world that is in darkness because of sin. John’s calling of God was to testify concerning the coming of Jesus (the Light). His whole being (his purpose for existing) was to obey God and carry out this mission. John’s calling and mission was not to live for himself, but to deny himself and obey God. It seems few professing Christians today understand these words.
IN THE BEGINNING–GOD
EXCUSE–THEY ARE WITHOUT EXCUSE
There are many writings in the Old Testament concerning the coming of Jesus beginning with Gen 3:15. The Old Testament pointed to the fact that one day the Messiah, the Just One, the Son of God would come. However, up to this time, the testimony or witness that was often put forth was concerning God. It is written, in Gen 1:1–IN THE BEGINNING GOD…
Before the time of Jesus, in addition to the Old Testament Scriptures, God still left a witness to His existence; as it is written in Acts 14:15,17–…THE LIVING GOD, WHICH MADE HEAVEN, AND EARTH, AND THE SEA, AND ALL THINGS THAT ARE THEREIN: NEVERTHELESS HE LEFT NOT HIMSELF WITHOUT WITNESS, IN THAT HE DID GOOD, AND GAVE US RAIN FROM HEAVEN, AND FRUITFUL SEASONS, FILLING OUR HEARTS WITH FOOD AND GLADNESS.
Also Ro 1:20–FOR THE INVISIBLE THINGS OF HIM FROM THE CREATION OF THE WORLD ARE CLEARLY SEEN, BEING UNDERSTOOD BY THE THINGS THAT ARE MADE, EVEN HIS ETERNAL POWER AND GODHEAD; SO THAT THEY ARE WITHOUT EXCUSE. But now through John the Baptist, the testimony is concerning the person of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, the Light, Who has come in the flesh to this earth.
John’s message also was one of telling the people to repent; as it is written., Mt 3:1,2,8–IN THOSE DAYS CAME JOHN THE BAPTIST…SAYING, REPENT YE: FOR THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IS AT HAND. BRING FORTH THEREFORE FRUITS MEET FOR REPENTANCE:
For those that repented, they were baptized by John as it is written in Mt 3:11–I INDEED BAPTIZE YOU WITH WATER UNTO REPENTANCE, and in verse 6–IN JORDAN, CONFESSING THEIR SINS.
John also warned them in verse 7–TO FLEE FROM THE WRATH TO COME? He warned them in verse 9 not to justify themselves or makes excuses; as it is written–AND THINK NOT TO SAY WITHIN YOURSELVES, WE HAVE ABRAHAM TO OUR FATHER: FOR I SAY UNTO YOU, THAT GOD IS ABLE OF THESE STONES TO RAISE UP CHILDREN UNTO ABRAHAM.
John also showed the people clearly, it was not enough to say they had repented, but that there had to be evidence, as it is written in Mt 3:10–AND NOW ALSO THE AXE IS LAID UNTO THE ROOT OF THE TREES: THEREFORE EVERY TREE WHICH BRINGETH NOT FORTH GOOD FRUIT IS HEWN DOWN, AND CAST INTO THE FIRE.
Jn 1:7–continues–
(so) THAT ALL MEN. The message of Jesus is for all men, not just for the Jews, as it is written Lk 2:30,32–FOR MINE EYES HAVE SEEN THY SALVATION, WHICH THOU HAST PREPARED BEFORE THE FACE OF ALL PEOPLE; A LIGHT TO LIGHTEN THE GENTILES, AND THE GLORY OF THY PEOPLE ISRAEL. The verse continues–
THROUGH HIM (or through Jesus and Jesus alone)–
MIGHT BELIEVE (or trust) (or so that through Him, everyone might put his trust in God and be faithful to Him–JNT). It did not say that all men would believe, but that all men might believe. The purpose that John the Baptist came was to tell people about Jesus and then as a result people would put their trust in and be faithful to Him. A person’s trust is not to be in his job, his riches, the government, any religion or church, the Pope, virgin Mary, self–righteousness, good deeds, or in any person or thing of this world–but only in Jesus. People are easily deceived, but seldom even recognize this. It has been this way since Adam and Eve.
The word believe may be defined as: a total, uncompromising commitment of love, trust, and obedience. To know in one's heart that God and His Word (the Bible) is true and can be trusted even in the midst of the most difficult and seemingly helpless circumstances and hurts a person may go through.
Jn 1:8. HE (himself) WAS NOT THAT LIGHT, (no). John makes it clear that he is not the light, he is not God, he is not the expected Messiah, he is not the Bridegroom, but was a friend of the Bridegroom–ref Jn 3:29. Even though Jesus said that AMONG THEM THAT ARE BORN OF WOMEN THERE HATH NOT RISEN A GREATER THAN JOHN THE BAPTIST…ref Mt 11:11; yet John indicated that he was not even worthy to untie the sandal strap of the sandals of Jesus. How is it then that the Pope, priests, and many religious leaders have no such attitude of brokenness and humility. In many so–called Christian churches, Christ may be spoken of occasionally but, in reality, He is standing outside the church. The preacher, priest and congregation have pushed Jesus out. They rule over themselves. They occasionally speak of a Christ that they read about in the Scriptures, but He is not in their heart, neither can they understand.
; The verse continues–
BUT (he) (which is John the Baptist)–
WAS SENT TO (TESTIFY). Again note the word TESTIFY as was also used in verse 7. The verse continues–
(CONCERNING) THAT LIGHT. John the Baptist came to announce the coming of the Light, which is Jesus. That, in essence, is all any Christian can do. How is it then that most so–called Christians and religious leaders in this generation bear witness of themselves. When in the pulpit, many tell stories about themselves, their families, their friends, things they have heard, seen, and read. They read from all types of written materials combining these with the Bible or even leaving out the Bible entirely. Most that go to church know far more about their minister than they do about Jesus. God forbid.
Those that have the word Holy attached to themselves or their institution are often the ones that are the most wicked and deceived as they lead multitudes astray to the place called Hell.
Jesus said of himself when one called Him GOOD MASTER, WHY CALLEST ME GOOD? THERE IS NONE GOOD BUT ONE, THAT IS, GOD–Mk 10:18.
Jn 1:9. (THIS) WAS THE TRUE LIGHT. This is another name of Jesus–the TRUE LIGHT. Jn 9:5–(Jesus said) AS LONG AS I AM IN THE WORLD, I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD.
The word TRUE is used. There are many false lights in the world that masquerade as the true light and indeed lead many astray; as it is written in 2 Cor 11:13–15–FOR SUCH ARE FALSE APOSTLES, DECEITFUL WORKERS, TRANSFORMING THEMSELVES INTO THE APOSTLES OF CHRIST. AND NO MARVEL; FOR SATAN HIMSELF IS TRANSFORMED INTO AN ANGEL OF LIGHT. THEREFORE IT IS NO GREAT THING IF HIS MINISTERS ALSO BE TRANSFORMED AS THE MINISTERS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS… The false light resides in the world’s religions and even much of what is called Christian.
The world system is a false light that sucks people in with its pride and ungodly ways. It allures and draws people in with its many fleshly desires, compliments, pleasures, projects, lusts of other things and lusts of the flesh, the cares, worries, hurts and angers of this life and the deceitfulness of riches. Most people seek the approval of this world far more than the approval of Jesus. Jesus said clearly 1 Jn 2:15–LOVE NOT THE WORLD, NEITHER THE THINGS THAT ARE IN THE WORLD. IF ANY MAN LOVE THE WORLD, THE LOVE OF THE FATHER IS NOT IN HIM.
There is only one light that is true and is truth. That light is in its entirety summed up in the name and person of Jesus. The verse continues–
WHICH (GIVES LIGHT TO) EVERY MAN. It is written in Ro 1:20–FOR THE INVISIBLE THINGS OF HIM FROM THE CREATION OF THE WORLD ARE CLEARLY SEEN, BEING UNDERSTOOD BY THE THINGS THAT ARE MADE, EVEN HIS ETERNAL POWER AND GODHEAD; SO THAT THEY ARE WITHOUT EXCUSE. The creation is a witness of the light; as it is written in Col 1:16–FOR BY HIM WERE ALL THINGS CREATED, THAT ARE IN HEAVEN, AND THAT ARE IN EARTH, VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE, WHETHER THEY BE THRONES, OR DOMINIONS, OR PRINCIPALITIES, OR POWERS: ALL THINGS WERE CREATED BY HIM, AND FOR HIM.
So what has unbelieving man done? He has created the falsehood of evolution to deceive people and to try and nullify the truth of God’s Word. It is to this very generation that God speaks, in Rev 3:14, as He says–AND UNTO THE ANGEL OF THE CHURCH OF THE LAODICEANS WRITE; THESE THINGS SAITH THE AMEN, THE FAITHFUL AND TRUE WITNESS, THE BEGINNING OF THE CREATION OF GOD. Jesus Himself is telling this generation (the generation that for the most part believes in evolution) that it is He that is the AMEN. It is He that is the FAITHFUL AND TRUE WITNESS. It is He that is the BEGINNING OF THE CREATION OF GOD (or the Ruler of God’s creation–JNT). It is not through evolution that all things came into being. So few have ears to hear and a heart to understand these words. The light has also been proclaimed from Abel to this current time, but because of the hardness of men’s hearts, it is usually rejected. The verse continues–
THAT (WAS COMING) INTO THE WORLD. The light is given but this does not mean all men will be saved. Jesus gives light, but that light is rejected by many, as can be seen in verse 10. Jesus gives understanding but that understanding (or truth) is rejected by most as men love darkness rather than light because their deeds are evil–ref Jn 3:19. Their deeds are not in accordance with God’s Word. Unrepentant sin, selfishness, pride, and worldly desires cause a person to be blinded from Godly understanding of the truth (or light). It is written in Mt 6:23–IF THEREFORE THE LIGHT THAT IS IN THEE BE DARKNESS, HOW GREAT IS THAT DARKNESS! One might say that if a person that is confronted with the truth of the Gospel (God’s Word–the Light), but God’s Word (the Light) clearly reveals the person is not saved (or shows the person is in darkness and deceived), but yet they still believe they are saved (or in the light)–then the darkness in them is very, very great. This is the way it is with most people.
Jn 1:10. HE (which is Jesus)
WAS IN THE WORLD. Jesus left His place in heaven above, came forth from God the Father–ref Jn 16:18, and came to this world, but was not of this world–ref Jn 8:23. He was then born of the virgin Mary and grew up. From the age of about 30, He began to teach things that had never been taught. He did miracles the likes of which no one had ever done in the history of the world. He was in this world and dwelt among us. The verse continues–
AND THE WORLD WAS MADE BY HIM. The world was made by Jesus. It is written in Jn 1:3–ALL THINGS WERE MADE BY HIM; AND WITHOUT HIM WAS NOT ANY THING MADE THAT WAS MADE. Eph 3:9–…GOD, WHO CREATED ALL THINGS BY JESUS CHRIST. Col 1:16–FOR BY HIM WERE ALL THINGS CREATED, THAT ARE IN HEAVEN, AND THAT ARE IN EARTH, VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE, WHETHER THEY BE THRONES, OR DOMINIONS, OR PRINCIPALITIES, OR POWERS: ALL THINGS WERE CREATED BY HIM, AND FOR HIM. The verse continues–
AND (yet) THE WORLD (DID NOT RECOGNIZE HIM–NIV). The world in the days of Jesus (and today also) refused to recognize or acknowledge that the carpenter of Nazareth (Jesus Christ who is come in the flesh) was the very same that created all things. The world today has substituted Satan’s lie of evolution for the truth that God created all things. It is much like Isaiah stated in 1:2–4–HEAR, O HEAVENS, AND GIVE EAR, O EARTH: FOR THE LORD HATH SPOKEN, I HAVE NOURISHED AND BROUGHT UP CHILDREN, AND THEY HAVE REBELLED AGAINST ME. THE OX KNOWETH HIS OWNER, AND THE ASS HIS MASTER'S CRIB: BUT ISRAEL DOTH NOT KNOW, MY PEOPLE DOTH NOT CONSIDER. AH SINFUL NATION, A PEOPLE LADEN WITH INIQUITY, A SEED OF EVILDOERS, CHILDREN THAT ARE CORRUPTERS: THEY HAVE FORSAKEN THE LORD, THEY HAVE PROVOKED THE HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL UNTO ANGER, THEY ARE GONE AWAY BACKWARD.
Since the fall of Adam, the people of the world have for the most part denied or ignored God. They would not allow God to reign over them. They would not submit to God and His ways and righteousness. As it was from the time of Adam to the time Jesus was in this world, to this very day, the world did not and does not recognize or submit to Jesus. They do not recognize His authority over them.
Jn 1:11. HE (Jesus) CAME
(TO) (that which was) HIS (OWN HOMELAND). This is referring to mainly to the Jews. He came to seek and to save that which was lost–ref Lk 19:10. The verse continues–
AND (yet) (those who were) HIS OWN (people)–this is referring to the Jews, the verse continues–
RECEIVED HIM NOT. Jesus is the Word. To the Jews were committed the ORACLES OF GOD–ref Ro 3:1,2. The Word of God, which they had, foretold of the coming of Jesus, where He would come from, when He would come and many other detail; yet, when Jesus Christ (the Word) came in human form, the Jews did not receive Him (or did not receive the Word–the Oracles of God).
As Jesus preached, many of His own disciples turned back from Him. He was betrayed by one of the twelve apostles. Most of the people rejected Him. Most of the religious leaders rejected Him. Jesus healed the sick and raised the dead, yet the religious mob hated Him so much that they wanted Barnabas, a murderer, to be released instead; and Jesus, who had done no wrong, they wanted killed. Is it not the same today?
This was foretold in Isa 53:1–3–WHO HATH BELIEVED OUR REPORT? AND TO WHOM IS THE ARM OF THE LORD REVEALED? FOR HE SHALL GROW UP BEFORE HIM AS A TENDER PLANT, AND AS A ROOT OUT OF A DRY GROUND: HE HATH NO FORM NOR COMELINESS; AND WHEN WE SHALL SEE HIM, THERE IS NO BEAUTY THAT WE SHOULD DESIRE HIM. HE IS DESPISED AND REJECTED OF MEN; A MAN OF SORROWS, AND ACQUAINTED WITH GRIEF: AND WE HID AS IT WERE OUR FACES FROM HIM; HE WAS DESPISED, AND WE ESTEEMED HIM NOT.
Luke 19:14 also gives insight to Jn 1:11–BUT HIS CITIZENS HATED HIM, AND SENT A MESSAGE AFTER HIM, SAYING, WE WILL NOT HAVE THIS MAN TO REIGN OVER US.
Jn 1:12. BUT AS MANY AS RECEIVED HIM. It did not say accepted Him. The words accept Him do not appear in the King James Bible. Most rejected Christ, but a few did receive Him. The verse continues–
TO THEM (to those that receive Jesus Christ) (or even to them that believe or put their trust in His name–as stated further on). The verse continues–TO THEM
GAVE HE (which is Jesus), Jesus gives–
(the) POWER (or right) (or authority)
TO BECOME THE SONS (or children) OF GOD. This is the first mention of becoming a son or child of God in the chronological 4 Gospels. The power, right, or authority to become a son of God was first to the Jew, but after also included the Gentiles–ref Gal 3:26. Before becoming a child of God, one is by nature a child of wrath–ref Eph 2:3; a child of this world–ref Lk 16:8. God calls us children or sons, and we call Him our Father. For indeed, He is our Father and all that are sons of God are our true and eternal brothers and sisters. As a child or son of God, we are entitled to all the inheritance and privileges that sons receive. (Some that are our brothers and sisters in Christ do not act like they are, as they are yet carnal or worldly. They have not yet grown in Christ enough–they are lukewarm. WHEREFORE BY THEIR FRUITS YE SHALL KNOW THEM–ref Mt 7:20). The verse continues–
EVEN TO THEM THAT BELIEVE (or put their trust)
(IN) HIS NAME (or person and power–JNT).
BELIEVING IN JESUS MEANS WHAT?
To believe or put your trust in His name is to receive and put your trust in His Word, His doctrine, even all that He says. It is to keep His commandments and love Him with all our heart, soul, mind (or understanding), and strength, and to love your neighbour as yourself. This is the first and second great commandment. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. There is no other commandment greater than these as these are more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices–ref Mt 22:37–40; Mk 12:30–33.
To believe or place one’s trust in His name is to forgive and to love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you. For God is kind to the unthankful and to the evil. And as you would that men should do to you, do you also to them likewise–ref Mt 5:44; Lk 6:27,28. Luke 6:31,35.
Man has no power or authority within himself to become a child of God. Isa 64:6 shows us that all of man’s good works or RIGHTEOUSNESSES ARE AS FILTHY RAGS; AND WE ALL DO FADE AS A LEAF; AND OUR INIQUITIES, LIKE THE WIND, HAVE TAKEN US AWAY.
The miracle of the new birth or being born again is an absolute requirement to enter the kingdom of heaven. A person is not born a son or child of God (or a Christian), but rather becomes a child of God through the new birth as illustrated in verse 13. Many claim they believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, but their fruit, attitude, works of God, obedience to God’s Word, love for the brethren as well as their enemies, or childlikeness to correction from God’s Word show little or no evidence of receiving or trusting Him. There is little or no evidence of a changed life. Their lives do not reflect that they have repented. Their lives do not reflect Jesus. The next verse tells us that believing must be accompanied with being born of God or born–again.
Jesus is God. He is to be received as Lord and Saviour; however, few people will allow Jesus (or His Word) to reign over them and direct them.
Some say they trust in Jesus, but they do not fully believe or trust the Bible. To reject God’s Word (the Bible) is to reject Jesus which is the Word. There is little of no hunger to hear and study the Bible. To have little or no hunger for God's Word is to have little or no hunger for Jesus.
His name means saviour or to save people from their sins–ref Mt 1:21.
Before Jesus came, people were saved through faith (or trust)–that is looking forward to the coming of the Messiah as symbolized through the feasts and sacrifices. Now that Christ has come, been crucified and risen from the dead, people are saved through faith (or trust) looking back at the finished work of Christ.
Before Jesus came–Abraham believed God and it was imputed unto him for righteousness–ref Ro 4:3; Gal 3:6; Ja 2:23. It was by faith that caused Abraham to do what he did–ref Heb 11:8,17. It is Jesus Who is the AUTHOR AND FINISHED OF OUR FAITH–Heb 12:2. The verses continue–
Jn 1:13. (Children) or, it may be said, those that are humble, submissive, and childlike before God and His Word. The verse continues–
WHICH WERE BORN, NOT OF BLOOD (or natural descent, or bloodline),
NOR OF THE WILL OF THE FLESH (or human decision, or physical impulse),
NOR OF THE WILL OF MAN (or a husband’s will, or human intention),
BUT (born) OF GOD. Note the word children (which can mean childlikeness, humbled, or submissive) appears first, then the new birth (being born of God) follows afterward.
(For an In–depth Study of “Born–Again,” see Jn 3:3, pg. 238)
All that are born of God are children of God. Here is the first reference to being born–again or a second birth. No person can receive the second birth, or become a child of God, as the result of their natural birth, corruptible seed, descent, bloodline, physical impulse, or of a husband’s will, human intention, or a person’s own will. It has nothing to do with nationality, heritage, or being of the lineage of Abraham. It has nothing to do with trying to be a good person, turning over a new leaf, making a new Year’s resolution, doing what is right, or through any works one may do. No person can receive the second birth through any preacher, priest, church, church membership, church rituals, or denomination. The new birth, or second birth, is only possible through repentance and trust in Jesus Christ alone–that is, the kind of trust that produces a humbled, changed attitude and ultimately produces the fruit of the Spirit. The new birth has to come through trust in Jesus Christ and the finished work which He did. It has to come through the cross. There is no other way to enter heaven–ref Acts 4:12. A born again person cannot beget a born again child.
It is a new birth that is given by God’s grace resulting through a person’s trust in His Name. Through the new birth a person is born into the family of God, and thus becomes a son or child of God. This is further confirmed in Gal 3:28, 29–THERE IS NEITHER JEW NOR GREEK, THERE IS NEITHER BOND NOR FREE, THERE IS NEITHER MALE NOR FEMALE: FOR YE ARE ALL ONE IN CHRIST JESUS. AND IF YE BE CHRIST’S, THEN ARE YE ABRAHAM’S SEED, AND HEIRS ACCORDING TO THE PROMISE. The new birth comes from incorruptible seed, BY THE WORD OF GOD WHICH LIVETH AND ABIDETH FOREVER–ref 1 Pe 1:23.
Jesus told Nicodemus, in John chapter 3, a person must be born again. It is written: Jn 3:3–JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM, (YES, INDEED), I SAY (TO) (YOU) (the truth), (UNLESS) A MAN BE BORN AGAIN (from above), HE CANNOT SEE THE KINGDOM OF GOD (or no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again–NIV).
Jn 3:4–NICODEMUS (SAID) (TO) HIM, HOW CAN A MAN BE BORN WHEN HE IS OLD (or grown)? CAN HE ENTER (or go back) THE SECOND TIME INTO HIS MOTHER’S WOMB, AND BE BORN?
Jn 3:5–JESUS ANSWERED, (YES, INDEED), I SAY (TO) (YOU) (the truth), (UNLESS) A MAN BE BORN OF WATER AND OF THE SPIRIT, HE CANNOT ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF GOD.
Jn 3:6–THAT WHICH IS BORN (FROM) THE FLESH IS FLESH; AND THAT WHICH IS BORN OF THE SPIRIT IS SPIRIT (or the Spirit gives birth to spirit–NIV).
Jn 3:9–NICODEMUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM, HOW CAN THESE THINGS BE (or happen)? Nicodemus was having problems understanding the new birth.
Jn 3:10–JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM, (ARE) (YOU) A MASTER (or teacher) OF ISRAEL (or hold the office of teacher in Israel–JNT), AND (DO NOT UNDERSTAND) THESE THINGS?
The true second birth should produce a changed, more Godlike, humbled, childlike attitude in a person, no matter what circumstances the person has gone or is going through. The new birth should ultimately bring forth the fruit of the Spirit of God, even if the person was raised under horrible conditions in Asia, Africa, or America. However, when a person does become born again, a spiritual battle lies ahead. Consider: WHAT MANNER OF LOVE THE FATHER HATH BESTOWED UPON US, THAT WE SHOULD BE CALLED THE SONS OF GOD–ref 1 Jn 3:1. The verses continue–
Jn 1:14. AND THE WORD (This means the Word of God–which is Jesus Christ, who is God). He has always been the Word. The verse continues–
WAS MADE (or became) FLESH (or became a human being–JNT). He came to this earth as a man (flesh). The Holy Ghost came upon Mary, and the power of the Highest overshadowed her, therefore that Holy Thing (Jesus) which was born of her was called the Son of God–ref Lk 1:35. When the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth His Son, made of a woman, made under the law–ref Gal 4:4. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh–ref Ro 8:3. Jesus Christ was born of the virgin Mary. God became a human being, yet He was still very God. He was and is still the Word. He took on the form of a servant, but He was and is still deity. He did no sin–ref 1 Pe 2:22; Heb 4:15. (Note–some cults that sound Biblical greatly err in that they say Jesus Christ was a man and was made a God.) The verse continues–
AND (LIVED) AMONG US. Jesus lived and dwelt among us, a generation of vipers–ref Mt 3:7; 12:34; Lk 3:7; and serpents–Mt 23:33; an adulterous and sinful generation–ref Mk 8:38. He dwelt among us for a period of time.
Throughout history man has made all sorts of images saying this was God. Men have conceived in their sinful hearts that everything from sinful people, golden calves, the stars in the sky, to animals, trees, hideous images made of all manner of things, etc., were God. However, now for the first time since Adam’s fall, man could now see God. The verse continues–
(AND WE BEHELD HIS GLORY. From the appearance of the angel to Mary and the shepherds, regarding the birth of Jesus, to His miracle birth, to the transfiguration and the miracles Jesus did, to His attitude and overwhelming love, patience, and compassion etc., to mankind, to His crucifixion and glorious resurrection and ascension into heaven–the glory of God did shine forth. He is deity. Jesus is the Word and fulfilled the Word. As John said in 1 Jn 1:1–THAT WHICH WAS FROM THE BEGINNING, WHICH WE HAVE HEARD, WHICH WE HAVE SEEN WITH OUR EYES, WHICH WE HAVE LOOKED UPON, AND OUR HANDS HAVE HANDLED, OF THE WORD OF LIFE (which is Jesus). As John said, WE BEHELD HIS GLORY–
THE GLORY AS OF THE [One and] ONLY BEGOTTEN [Son]
OF THE FATHER,) Jesus Christ is the only begotten Son of God, the Father in heaven. There were none before Him, and there are none after Him, although there have been and are many claiming to be the Christ, which have and will mislead many. In the near future, He will return with POWER AND GREAT GLORY–ref Mt 24:30. The verse continues–
FULL OF GRACE. Jesus is grace. The verse continues–
AND TRUTH. Jesus is truth. The words BECAME FLESH proclaim His humanity and GRACE AND TRUTH proclaims His full Deity and that He is God. He said, I AM…THE TRUTH–ref Jn 14:6. Jn 1:17 tells us GRACE AND TRUTH CAME BY JESUS CHRIST. Jesus Christ, the Author and Finisher of our faith, endured the cross and died, despising the shame, but is risen again, and now is set down at the right hand of the throne of God and makes intercession for us–ref Heb 12:2 and Ro 8:34.
JESUS. HE IS FULL OF GRACE AND TRUTH
Oftentimes a person may combine verse one with this verse. In doing so, it reads like this: Jn 1:1–IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD, AND THE WORD WAS WITH GOD, AND THE WORD WAS GOD. Jn 1:14–AND THE WORD WAS MADE (or became) FLESH (or became a human being–JNT), AND (LIVED) AMONG US, (AND WE BEHELD HIS GLORY, THE GLORY AS OF THE [One and] ONLY BEGOTTEN [Son] OF THE FATHER,) FULL OF GRACE AND TRUTH. This is Jesus. He is full of grace and truth.
Other reference verses: 1 Jn 1:1–THAT WHICH WAS FROM THE BEGINNING, WHICH WE HAVE HEARD, WHICH WE HAVE SEEN WITH OUR EYES, WHICH WE HAVE LOOKED UPON, AND OUR HANDS HAVE HANDLED, OF THE WORD OF LIFE. This is Jesus. He is full of grace and truth.
1 Jn 5:7–FOR THERE ARE THREE THAT BEAR RECORD IN HEAVEN, THE FATHER, THE WORD (This is Jesus. He is full of Grace and Truth), AND THE HOLY GHOST: AND THESE THREE ARE ONE.
Rev 1:2–WHO BARE RECORD OF THE WORD OF GOD, AND OF THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS CHRIST (This is Jesus. He is full of Grace and Truth), AND OF ALL THINGS THAT HE SAW.
Rev 19:13–AND HE WAS CLOTHED WITH A VESTURE DIPPED IN BLOOD: AND HIS NAME IS CALLED THE WORD OF GOD. This is Jesus. He is full of Grace and Truth.
1 Tim 3:16–AND WITHOUT CONTROVERSY GREAT IS THE MYSTERY OF GODLINESS: GOD WAS MANIFEST IN THE FLESH, JUSTIFIED IN THE SPIRIT, SEEN OF ANGELS, PREACHED UNTO THE GENTILES, BELIEVED ON IN THE WORLD, RECEIVED UP INTO GLORY. This is Jesus. He is full of Grace and Truth.
1 Pe 1:23–BEING BORN AGAIN, NOT OF CORRUPTIBLE SEED, BUT OF INCORRUPTIBLE, BY THE WORD OF GOD, WHICH LIVETH AND ABIDETH FOR EVER. This is Jesus. He is full of Grace and Truth.
Jesus (the Word) was in the beginning
Jesus (the Word) was with God
Jesus (the Word) was God
Jesus (the Word) made all things. Jesus made the world
In Jesus was life
Jesus (the Word) is the only begotten of the Father
Jesus (the Word) was made flesh
Jesus (the Word) was in the world
Jesus (the Word) dwelt among us
Jesus (the Word) is full of grace and truth
Jesus was the light of men, the true Light
Jesus (the Word, the Light) shines in the darkness
The darkness does not understand Jesus (the Word).
The world did not know Jesus (the Word)
Jesus (the Word) His own did not receive Him. The verses continue–
Jn 1:15. JOHN BARE WITNESS (or testifies)
OF HIM, (which is Jesus). Jn 1:8 tells us that John was sent to testify concerning the light, which is Jesus. In this verse, John does what he was sent to do. It may be said that John the Baptist continually gave a testimony regarding Jesus. He came before Jesus to announce His soon coming. His calling was also to go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways–ref Lk 1:76. This was the calling of John the Baptist, as it was written in Lk 1:16,17–AND MANY OF THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL SHALL HE (BRING BACK) TO THE LORD THEIR GOD. AND HE SHALL GO (out) (as a forerunner) BEFORE HIM (or ahead of) (the Lord) IN THE SPIRIT AND POWER OF ELIJAH, TO TURN THE HEARTS OF THE FATHERS (back) TO THE CHILDREN, AND THE DISOBEDIENT TO THE WISDOM (or attitude) OF THE (RIGHTEOUS); TO MAKE READY A PEOPLE PREPARED FOR THE LORD. The verse continues–
AND CRIED (out), SAYING. This is a fulfillment of Isa 40:3–The voice of him that CRIETH in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. The verse continues–
THIS WAS HE which is referring to Jesus–
OF WHOM I (WAS TALKING ABOUT)
(when I said), HE THAT (COMES) AFTER ME. Jesus was born about 6 months after John and His ministry also began about 6 months after John’s ministry. Thus Jesus came after John the Baptist. The verse continues–
IS PREFERRED BEFORE ME (or has surpassed me, or has a higher rank than I–NASB). John said in Jn 1:27–HE IT IS, WHO COMING AFTER ME IS PREFERRED BEFORE ME, WHOSE SHOE’S LATCHET I AM NOT WORTHY TO UNLOOSE. In Acts 13:25–BEHOLD, THERE COMETH ONE AFTER ME, WHOSE SHOES OF HIS FEET I AM NOT WORTHY TO LOOSE. The verse continues–
FOR HE (EXISTED) BEFORE ME. (reference Jn 1:30). John is referring to Jesus being the Christ (or Messiah). Even though Jesus was born after John the Baptist, yet He is from everlasting to everlasting. Jesus not only existed before John, He existed before all things–ref Col 1:17. He created all things–ref Col 1:16. The goings forth of Jesus have been from of old, from everlasting–ref Mic 5:2. John was called the prophet of the Highest in Lk 1:76–
Jn 1:16. AND OF HIS FULLNESS. One might ask, “What is His fullness”? It includes what is covered in verse 14–plus Who He is, what He is, what He has, and what He gives. He is God. He is the Word and was made flesh. He is the only begotten of the Father. Note verses on fullness–Jn 1:16; Ro 15:29; Eph 1:23, 3:19, 4:13; Col 1:19, 2:9–10.
His fullness includes His glory. He gives His glory. He is full of grace and truth. His fullness includes himself. Jesus gave Himself a ransom–ref 1 Tim 2:6. Ro 8:32–HE (which is God the Father) THAT SPARED NOT HIS OWN SON, BUT DELIVERED HIM UP FOR US ALL, HOW SHALL HE NOT WITH HIM ALSO FREELY GIVE US ALL THINGS? Thus, His fullness includes all things.
His fullness includes gifts, benefits and salvation. It is written, Ps 68:18,19–THOU HAST ASCENDED ON HIGH, THOU HAST LED CAPTIVITY CAPTIVE: THOU HAST RECEIVED GIFTS FOR MEN; YEA, FOR THE REBELLIOUS ALSO, THAT THE LORD GOD MIGHT DWELL AMONG THEM. BLESSED BE THE LORD, WHO DAILY LOADETH US WITH BENEFITS, EVEN THE GOD OF OUR SALVATION. Eph 4:7,8–BUT UNTO EVERY ONE OF US IS GIVEN GRACE ACCORDING TO THE MEASURE OF THE GIFT OF CHRIST. WHEREFORE HE SAITH, WHEN HE ASCENDED UP ON HIGH, HE LED CAPTIVITY CAPTIVE, AND GAVE GIFTS UNTO MEN.
His fullness includes position. It is further written–Eph 4:11–16–AND HE GAVE SOME, APOSTLES; AND SOME, PROPHETS; AND SOME, EVANGELISTS; AND SOME, PASTORS AND TEACHERS; FOR THE PERFECTING OF THE SAINTS, FOR THE WORK OF THE MINISTRY, FOR THE EDIFYING OF THE BODY OF CHRIST: TILL WE ALL COME IN THE UNITY OF THE FAITH, AND OF THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE SON OF GOD, UNTO A PERFECT MAN, UNTO THE MEASURE OF THE STATURE OF THE FULNESS OF CHRIST: THAT WE HENCEFORTH BE NO MORE CHILDREN, TOSSED TO AND FRO, AND CARRIED ABOUT WITH EVERY WIND OF DOCTRINE, BY THE SLEIGHT OF MEN, AND CUNNING CRAFTINESS, WHEREBY THEY LIE IN WAIT TO DECEIVE; BUT SPEAKING THE TRUTH IN LOVE, MAY GROW UP INTO HIM IN ALL THINGS, WHICH IS THE HEAD, EVEN CHRIST: FROM WHOM THE WHOLE BODY FITLY JOINED TOGETHER AND COMPACTED BY THAT WHICH EVERY JOINT SUPPLIETH, ACCORDING TO THE EFFECTUAL WORKING IN THE MEASURE OF EVERY PART, MAKETH INCREASE OF THE BODY UNTO THE EDIFYING OF ITSELF IN LOVE–also ref Ro 1:5. Thus His fullness also includes growing up into Him and love and more.
Paul writes Eph 3:7,8–WHEREOF I WAS MADE A MINISTER, ACCORDING TO THE GIFT OF THE GRACE OF GOD…THAT I SHOULD PREACH AMONG THE GENTILES THE UNSEARCHABLE RICHES OF CHRIST. Again His fullness includes giving the gift of a position.
He received gifts in Ps 68 and gave gifts in Eph 4. He gives salvation, grace, benefits, position, talents, all things. Grace is given to accomplish His purpose–ref Eph 3:8, 2:10. We are called to grow in Him in all things. How great are the unsearchable riches of Christ. Perhaps His fullness can be summed up in this verse: Col 2:9,10–FOR IN HIM DWELLETH ALL THE FULNESS OF THE GODHEAD BODILY. AND YE ARE COMPLETE IN HIM, WHICH IS THE HEAD OF ALL PRINCIPALITY AND POWER: The verse continues–
HAVE ALL WE RECEIVED. True believers receive of Christ's fullness, His glory, the riches of His grace in kindness–ref Eph 2:7, and truth. The we includes John the Baptist and all true born–again children of God as outlined in verse 13. True believers learn obedience by the things which they suffer–ref Heb 5:8. They learn to be content no matter what state they are in–how to be full and to be hungry, how to abound and to be abased or to suffer need. They learn they can do all things through Christ which strengthens them–ref Phil 4:11–13. The verse continues–
(yes) AND GRACE FOR (or upon) GRACE (or one blessing after another–NIV), an abundance of grace. From salvation to our needs which includes food and raiment—all we truly need is Jesus and is in Jesus. He is God. He is the head of the body–ref Col 1:18. His grace is sufficient for us all–ref 2 Cor 12:9. Regretfully, the carnal Christian and the world of today cannot understand this.
God in His love and mercy, takes an unsaved, uncircumcised, thorn–bearing person and begins to open up their understanding of the Gospel. He saves them. They are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ–ref Col 2:11. He then takes the new born–again Christian (a baby Christian), one that knows little of God's ways, one that knows little of right and wrong in the eyes of a Holy God, but one that needs and craves the milk of the Word, one that does not even know how to walk, and begins to work in the inner man to mold, shape, renew, conform, and transform their thinking, even the spirit of their mind into the image of Christ. Those that humble themselves as a little child (ref Mt 18:3, Ja 5:6) and fear God (ref Acts 13:26), learn to overcome all things through trust in Jesus. They learn obedience to God. They learn to walk, talk, and think like Jesus and to be rooted and grounded in love, even when being corrected when they are wrong. It is needful for a person to spend time everyday in reading and studying God’s Word. Excuses can take a person to the lake of fire. Trust and obedience to Christ takes a person to heaven.
It may be said that AND GRACE FOR (or upon) GRACE is the grace of God that is given to us (the effectual working of His power–ref Eph 3:7) conforming us to His grace.
This verse might summarize some of the above–2 Cor 3:18–BUT WE ALL, WITH OPEN FACE BEHOLDING AS IN A GLASS THE GLORY OF THE LORD, ARE CHANGED INTO THE SAME IMAGE FROM GLORY TO GLORY, EVEN AS BY THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD.
They learn to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge. However, in a Laodicean, lukewarm church, less than few will ever grow up to comprehend holiness and the meat of the Word–perfection. The verses continue–
Jn 1:17. FOR THE LAW. In Hebrew the word LAW is translated TORAH. It can mean teaching and refers to the five books of Moses, which are the first five books of the Bible. Following are a few Scriptures on this subject.
LAW. SCRIPTURES REGARDING THE LAW
It is written in Ro 3:20–THEREFORE BY THE DEEDS OF THE LAW THERE SHALL NO FLESH BE JUSTIFIED IN HIS SIGHT: FOR BY THE LAW IS THE KNOWLEDGE OF SIN.
In Gal 3:24–WHEREFORE THE LAW WAS OUR SCHOOLMASTER TO BRING US UNTO CHRIST, THAT WE MIGHT BE JUSTIFIED BY FAITH. Gal 3:23–BUT BEFORE FAITH CAME, WE WERE KEPT UNDER THE LAW, SHUT UP UNTO THE FAITH WHICH SHOULD AFTERWARDS BE REVEALED. Gal 3:25,26–BUT AFTER THAT FAITH IS COME, WE ARE NO LONGER UNDER A SCHOOLMASTER. FOR YE ARE ALL THE CHILDREN OF GOD BY FAITH IN CHRIST JESUS.
Ro 8:1–THERE IS THEREFORE NOW NO CONDEMNATION TO THEM WHICH ARE IN CHRIST JESUS, WHO WALK NOT AFTER THE FLESH, BUT AFTER THE SPIRIT.
Ro 8:14–FOR AS MANY AS ARE LED BY THE SPIRIT OF GOD, THEY ARE THE SONS OF GOD.
Gal 5:18–BUT IF YE BE LED OF THE SPIRIT, YE ARE NOT UNDER THE LAW.
Ro 8:13–FOR IF YE LIVE AFTER THE FLESH, YE SHALL DIE: BUT IF YE THROUGH THE SPIRIT DO MORTIFY THE DEEDS OF THE BODY, YE SHALL LIVE.
Ro 8:3–7–FOR WHAT THE LAW COULD NOT DO, IN THAT IT WAS WEAK THROUGH THE FLESH, GOD SENDING HIS OWN SON IN THE LIKENESS OF SINFUL FLESH, AND FOR SIN, CONDEMNED SIN IN THE FLESH: THAT THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF THE LAW MIGHT BE FULFILLED IN US, WHO WALK NOT AFTER THE FLESH, BUT AFTER THE SPIRIT. FOR THEY THAT ARE AFTER THE FLESH DO MIND THE THINGS OF THE FLESH; BUT THEY THAT ARE AFTER THE SPIRIT THE THINGS OF THE SPIRIT. FOR TO BE CARNALLY MINDED IS DEATH; BUT TO BE SPIRITUALLY MINDED IS LIFE AND PEACE. BECAUSE THE CARNAL MIND IS ENMITY AGAINST GOD: FOR IT IS NOT SUBJECT TO THE LAW OF GOD, NEITHER INDEED CAN BE.
Regarding the law, it is written to Israel in Deut 4:1–8 NIV–HEAR NOW, O ISRAEL, THE DECREES AND LAWS I AM ABOUT TO TEACH YOU. FOLLOW THEM SO THAT YOU MAY LIVE AND MAY GO IN AND TAKE POSSESSION OF THE LAND THAT THE LORD, THE GOD OF YOUR FATHERS, IS GIVING YOU.
2–DO NOT ADD TO WHAT I COMMAND YOU AND DO NOT SUBTRACT FROM IT, BUT KEEP THE COMMANDS OF THE LORD YOUR GOD THAT I GIVE YOU.
3–YOU SAW WITH YOUR OWN EYES WHAT THE LORD DID AT BAAL PEOR. THE LORD YOUR GOD DESTROYED FROM AMONG YOU EVERYONE WHO FOLLOWED THE BAAL OF PEOR,
4–BUT ALL OF YOU WHO HELD FAST TO THE LORD YOUR GOD ARE STILL ALIVE TODAY.
5–SEE, I HAVE TAUGHT YOU DECREES AND LAWS AS THE LORD MY GOD COMMANDED ME, SO THAT YOU MAY FOLLOW THEM IN THE LAND YOU ARE ENTERING TO TAKE POSSESSION OF IT.
6–OBSERVE THEM CAREFULLY, FOR THIS WILL SHOW YOUR WISDOM AND UNDERSTANDING TO THE NATIONS, WHO WILL HEAR ABOUT ALL THESE DECREES AND SAY, “SURELY THIS GREAT NATION IS A WISE AND UNDERSTANDING PEOPLE.”"
7–WHAT OTHER NATION IS SO GREAT AS TO HAVE THEIR GODS NEAR THEM THE WAY THE LORD OUR GOD IS NEAR US WHENEVER WE PRAY TO HIM?
8–AND WHAT OTHER NATION IS SO GREAT AS TO HAVE SUCH RIGHTEOUS DECREES AND LAWS AS THIS BODY OF LAWS I AM SETTING BEFORE YOU TODAY?
Nearly everything in regard to the personal, spiritual, and moral aspects of Israel’s life was covered in the Torah (which included various commands, decrees, ordinances, precepts, statutes, and more.) It was completely fair and just to all. It not only laid down rules, but also included the penalties for not keeping them.
Israel ultimately did not keep the Law. However, regarding Jesus, it is written–Gal 4:4,5–BUT WHEN THE FULNESS OF THE TIME WAS COME, GOD SENT FORTH HIS SON, MADE OF A WOMAN, MADE UNDER THE LAW, TO REDEEM THEM THAT WERE UNDER THE LAW, THAT WE MIGHT RECEIVE THE ADOPTION OF SONS. Jesus kept all the Law. He then paid the penalty of not keeping the Law (the law of sin and death) for all that will trust in Him. The verse continues–
WAS GIVEN (THROUGH) MOSES. The Law was given by God to Moses for Israel. The verse continues–
BUT GRACE. The Bible tells us that Jesus is full of grace–
AND TRUTH. Jesus is truth. GRACE AND TRUTH–
CAME BY JESUS CHRIST (or the Messiah). A distinction is now made between the Law and grace. A contrast is revealed between the Law given through Moses and grace coming by Jesus Christ. This is more fully explained in Galatians. It is written:
Gal 3:19–WHEREFORE THEN SERVETH THE LAW? IT WAS ADDED BECAUSE OF TRANSGRESSIONS, TILL THE SEED SHOULD COME (which is Jesus) TO WHOM THE PROMISE WAS MADE; AND IT WAS ORDAINED BY ANGELS IN THE HAND OF A MEDIATOR.
20–NOW A MEDIATOR IS NOT A MEDIATOR OF ONE, BUT GOD IS ONE.
21–IS THE LAW THEN AGAINST THE PROMISES OF GOD? GOD FORBID: FOR IF THERE HAD BEEN A LAW GIVEN WHICH COULD HAVE GIVEN LIFE, VERILY RIGHTEOUSNESS SHOULD HAVE BEEN BY THE LAW.
22–BUT THE SCRIPTURE HATH CONCLUDED ALL UNDER SIN, THAT THE PROMISE BY FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST MIGHT BE GIVEN TO THEM THAT BELIEVE.
23–BUT BEFORE FAITH CAME, WE WERE KEPT UNDER THE LAW, SHUT UP UNTO THE FAITH WHICH SHOULD AFTERWARDS BE REVEALED (which is faith in Jesus Christ).
24–WHEREFORE THE LAW WAS OUR SCHOOLMASTER TO BRING US UNTO CHRIST, THAT WE MIGHT BE JUSTIFIED BY FAITH.
25–BUT AFTER THAT FAITH (or Jesus Christ) IS COME, WE ARE NO LONGER UNDER A SCHOOLMASTER. (which is the law)
26–FOR YE ARE ALL THE CHILDREN OF GOD BY FAITH (or trust) IN CHRIST JESUS.
27–FOR AS MANY OF YOU AS HAVE BEEN BAPTIZED INTO CHRIST HAVE PUT ON CHRIST.
The Law revealed what sin was. Through the Law was the knowledge of sin. It was our schoolmaster pointing, directing, or bringing us to Christ. It is through Jesus Christ that grace and truth came. It is only through Jesus Christ that we can be saved. It is only through faith or trust in Jesus Christ that we can be released from being under a schoolmaster (or the Law).
The Law requires righteousness, which a person cannot accomplish. Trust in Jesus Christ gives a person the righteousness he needs to enter the kingdom of heaven.
Jn 1:18. NO MAN (HAS) SEEN GOD. Some may translate the verse this way: “No person has ever comprehended or experienced God, at any time, in all His fullness and splendor”. God is Spirit. He is invisible to worldly eyes. He cannot be seen by man. However, the born again children of God can know Him and can hear and understand His voice (which includes the Bible), and they follow Him–ref Jn 10:27. Moses, as well as God's children, lived by faith and trusted. They endure AS SEEING HIM WHO IS INVISIBLE–Heb 11:27. The verse continues–
AT ANY TIME. At any time, man in his carnal or earthly body cannot see God as explained above. However, He has appeared to man in a bodily form, in visions, and in other ways–ref Gen 18; 32:30; Ex 24:10–12, 17; 33:11, 19, 20, 23; Jos 5:13–15; Isa 6; Ezek 1:26–28; Dan 7:9,10,13; Acts 7:56; Rev 4:2,3; Rev 5:16,7; 19:11–13,16.
Ex 33:18–23–AND HE (Moses) SAID, I BESEECH THEE, SHEW ME THY GLORY. AND HE SAID, I WILL MAKE ALL MY GOODNESS PASS BEFORE THEE, AND I WILL PROCLAIM THE NAME OF THE LORD BEFORE THEE; AND WILL BE GRACIOUS TO WHOM I WILL BE GRACIOUS, AND WILL SHEW MERCY ON WHOM I WILL SHEW MERCY. AND HE SAID, THOU CANST NOT SEE MY FACE: FOR THERE SHALL NO MAN SEE ME, AND LIVE. AND THE LORD SAID, BEHOLD, THERE IS A PLACE BY ME, AND THOU SHALT STAND UPON A ROCK: AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS, WHILE MY GLORY PASSETH BY, THAT I WILL PUT THEE IN A CLIFT OF THE ROCK, AND WILL COVER THEE WITH MY HAND WHILE I PASS BY: AND I WILL TAKE AWAY MINE HAND, AND THOU SHALT SEE MY BACK PARTS: BUT MY FACE SHALL NOT BE SEEN.
The day is coming when Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, shall return to this earth. He shall reign and rule from Jerusalem during the Millennium. It is written: Job 19:25–26–FOR I KNOW THAT MY REDEEMER LIVETH, AND THAT HE SHALL STAND AT THE LATTER DAY UPON THE EARTH: AND THOUGH AFTER MY SKIN WORMS DESTROY THIS BODY, YET IN MY FLESH SHALL I SEE GOD:
It is also written in Mt 5:8–BLESSED ARE THE PURE IN HEART: FOR THEY SHALL SEE GOD. The verse continues–
(but) (or except) THE (One and) ONLY (or unique) BEGOTTEN SON which is Jesus. The verse continues–
(Who is identical with God–JNT),
WHICH IS IN THE BOSOM. Webster’s Dictionary translates the word bosom as–the human breast; the breast regarded as the source of feelings; the interior, that is the midst (the bosom of one's family); the part of a garment that covers the breast–close, intimate such as a bosom friend. The verse continues–
OF THE FATHER (or is at the Father’s side–NIV). These words show the close, loving intimacy between the only begotten Son and the Father. In other words as close as it could be–perfect harmony and closeness. The verse continues–
HE (HAS) DECLARED (or explained) HIM. The nature of God, His character, love, mercy, longsuffering, holiness, judgments, even the way He is, was made known through Jesus Christ. Jesus, when He came, showed and declared exactly what the Father is like. That closeness is illustrated in the following verses–Jn 6:46–NOT THAT ANY MAN HATH SEEN THE FATHER, SAVE HE (Jesus) WHICH IS OF GOD, HE (Jesus) HATH SEEN THE FATHER.
Jn 14:8–11–PHILIP SAITH UNTO HIM, LORD, SHEW US THE FATHER, AND IT SUFFICETH US. JESUS SAITH UNTO HIM, HAVE I BEEN SO LONG TIME WITH YOU, AND YET HAST THOU NOT KNOWN ME, PHILIP? HE THAT HATH SEEN ME HATH SEEN THE FATHER; AND HOW SAYEST THOU THEN, SHEW US THE FATHER? BELIEVEST THOU NOT THAT I AM IN THE FATHER, AND THE FATHER IN ME? THE WORDS THAT I SPEAK UNTO YOU I SPEAK NOT OF MYSELF: BUT THE FATHER THAT DWELLETH IN ME, HE DOETH THE WORKS. BELIEVE ME THAT I AM IN THE FATHER, AND THE FATHER IN ME: OR ELSE BELIEVE ME FOR THE VERY WORKS’ SAKE.
TRINITY:
ONE GOD MANIFESTED IN THREE PERSONS
The close, loving intimacy between the only begotten Son and the Father is, in other words, as close as it could be–perfect harmony, closeness and union. He spoke those things which His Father gave Him to speak–ref Jn 14:10, and was obedient in all things. This is the kind of a loving, obedient relationship Jesus wants us to have with Him. Regretfully few people will follow Him and spend the time that is needed in God’s Word to learn of Jesus. Few will love, obey and trust
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