The Period of Expectation – In the first two installments of our study surveying the big picture of the New Testament, I introduced a big picture perspective of surveying the New Testament, by considering the New Testament from the perspective of six historical periods. In our last lesson, I explored the first of these six historical periods that I call, the “period of preparation” or the four-hundred-year period between the testaments in which God was working through history, providentially orchestrating historical events for the purpose of preparing the way for the birth of His Son. In part three of our examination of the historical big picture overview of the New Testament, we are going to explore the second period of New Testament history in which I have identifying as, “The Period of Expectation.” This is the period that chronicles the miraculous birth, life, ministry, death and resurrection of the central figure of the New Testament and arguably, the central figure in all of human history, the Lord Jesus Christ.
The classification of this period as the “period of expectation” is centered around the record recorded by Luke in chapter three of his Gospel. While John the Baptist was ministering at the Jordan River, Luke records the following occurrence: “Now while people were in a state of expectation, and were all wondering in their hearts if John might be the Christ” (Luke 3:15 NASB). This is the period of expectation somewhere between 6 BC and 30 AD comprises the period from birth of Christ which is recorded in the four Gospels and the birth of the Church which is recorded in the book of Acts. Now was God’s “set time,” in which the earth was prepared and Heaven was ready for Christ to come into the world. In other words, as the result of all of the historical and providentially orchestrated events of the previous 400 years, the stage was now set and the anticipation and “expectation” for the coming of Messiah was at an all time high.
Now, in order to fully grasp why there was such a “State of Expectation,” let’s examine some additional historical context, by taking a brief journey back to the very beginning. The book of Genesis declares that “in the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth.” And then God created man out of the dust of the ground. Then after God created man, the bible records the following: 27 So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 28 Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” 29 And God said, “See, I have given you every herb that yields seed which is on the face of all the earth, and every tree whose fruit yields seed; to you it shall be for food. 30 Also, to every beast of the earth, to every bird of the air, and to everything that creeps on the earth, in which there is life, I have given every green herb for food”; and it was so. 31 Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good. So, the evening and the morning were the sixth day (Genesis 1:27-31 NKJV).
God then gives Adam the following very clear and specific set of instructions: 15 Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it. 16 And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; 17 but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die” (Genesis 2:-17).
Sadly however, man chooses to reject the will of God and listen to the voice of Satan instead. And as a result of that faithful decision, the unity between God and man was now broken. And when confronted with his transgression, Adam blamed Eve. Ultimately, he put the responsibility upon God himself stating, “the woman you gave me.”Eve similarly rationalized, charging, “the serpent beguiled me.” However, even though the relationship between God and man was now officially broken, and a curse was placed on the man, the woman and on the Serpent, God made the following proclamation: “And I will put enmity Between you and the woman, And between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, And you shall bruise His heel” (Genesis 3:15 NKJV). In other words, God announces that He will one day bring about a redeemer who would restore that broken relationship.
Now, with the possible exception of John 3:16, no verse in the Bible is more crucial and definitive than Genesis 3:15. In fact, when I teach Old Testament Survey, I often refer to Genesis 3:15 as the “Cornerstone Verse” of the bible. Meaning that beginning with Genesis 12 and the call of Abraham, everything that happens after that, is God setting the stage or beginning the process of providentially orchestrating the events of history, for the purpose of bringing to fulfillment, the promise of that Messiah that would restore man’s broken relationship with God. More succinctly stated, it is Genesis 3:15 that establishes a principle that runs throughout the Old Testament, creating an expectation of a Redeemer who would be a descendant (a “seed”) of Adam and Eve, and later through the lineage of the Patriarch Abraham.
Now, fast forwarding to the opening of the New Testaments, thousands of years have passed, and this promised Messiah had not yet appeared. But what is even worse, is the fact that during the time of the Gospels, the Israelites had become subjects of the oppressive rule of the Roman Empire. In other words, the Jews at become controlled subjects in their own land. Now, to put it in some sort of perspective, imagine if Hitler would have won the second World War and achieved his vision of German world domination, and America was defeated and the American people became controlled subjects under the domination of Nazi Germany. This would be an example of the historical context in which the Gospels open.
Now to add another layer of context to this period, not only were the Jews currently subjects of Rome in their own land, but for over one thousand years prior, the Israelites had on and off (mostly on), been living as subjects of foreign rule, having been conquered in their history by Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, Greece and now Rome. And that’s not even to mention all of those episodes of bondage by the Philistines during the period of the Judges. So for many Jews at the opening of the Gospels, not only was having their Messiah that would restore their relationship to God, but because of the oppressive rule of the Romans, this idea of a Messiah had also become connected with the hope of a deliverer who would once and for all, deliver them from foreign oppressors, so that they could be free to live as God had promised them.
An example of one of the prophets that they looked to was Isaiah who records: “For You have broken the yoke of his burden, And the staff of his shoulder, The rod of his oppressor, As in the day of Midian.5 For every warrior’s sandal from the noisy battle, and garments rolled in blood, Will be used for burning and fuel of fire. 6 For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever.The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this (Isaiah 9:4-7 NKJV). In short, the prophets of old had consistently promised that there would be a Messiah, a deliver who would defeat their enemy’s and restore them back to their rightful place. Subsequently, it is with this contextual and historical background, that the Jewish people were desperate for a Messiah, who would deliver them once and for all, form the oppressive rule of the Romans. So, when Christ came onto the scene, many Jews were anxiously awaiting the promised deliverer to the point that many began to wonder if maybe John the Baptist could possibly even be the one.
The Miracles of Christ’s Birth
The month was probably April, the year was 5 B.C., when a young Jewish couple slowly made their way from Nazareth to the little town of Bethlehem, a trip of some 75-80 miles.
The Miracles of Christ’s Birth
The month was probably April, the year was 5 B.C., when a young Jewish couple slowly made their way from Nazareth to the little town of Bethlehem, a trip of some 75-80 miles.
The Miracle of the Preparation A. First and most important, it was in God’s predetermined time: (Gal. 4:4).
B. Next, there was a Messianic expectation throughout the Jewish/Arab territories. The Jews were seeking a Deliverer to overthrow the hated Roman Government.
Plus the expectation of hearing from God, since there had been no direct revelation from God for 400 years.
KEY VERSE
Galatians 4:4-5
4 But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, 5 so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.
Purpose and plan for His coming.
To Fulfill Prophecy
To Reveal God
To Redeem mankind
The Gospels
Now, the Old Testament covers approximately 4,000 years of historical narrative from Genesis to Malachi (about 430 BC). The historical narrative of Mathew through Acts, covers only about 53 years, from the births of John the Baptist and Jesus (about 6 BC) to the Roman imprisonment of Paul (AD 59). Although Mathew and Luke narrate the birth of Jesus and some stories of His childhood, the Gospels focus on the ministry of Jesus from about (AD 26 to 30). The letters of John and the Revelation were written near the end of the first century around (AD 97), but do not continue the narrative of the apostolic era.
Now, as I have previously explained, Jesus began His ministry during a time in which, politically, economically, socially and religiously, the world was ready for, or had been prepared for a Savior or the coming deliverer that was foretold by the Prophets of old. Interestingly, at the time of Christ’s birth, both the Jews and many Gentiles were longing for a deliverer who would rescue them from the oppression of cruel and corrupt Tyrants, religious leaders and the tyrannical Roman Empire. Furthermore, Judaism had become completely corrupt, many had lost faith in the Roman pantheon of gods and Greek philosophy which was the dominant worldview of the First Century, raised many questions about life and existence but did not provide satisfying answers.
The four Gospels tells the story of the Life of Christ from His virgin birth, earthly ministry, death, resurrection and ascension. Each one of the authors of the four Gospels give us a different perspective of Christ’s life. And when we combine these four narratives, they give us a composite picture of the life of Jesus Christ, who is identified during His baptism as the “Lamb of God that came to take away the sin of the world.” Now, the birth of a son to a carpenter and his young wife in first century Palestine would have ordinarily gone completely unnoticed. However, the birth of Christ was different, not only was He in the line of both David and Abraham, but an Angel announced to Mary, that although she was still a virgin, she would conceive a son. A birth of course that was completely different than any birth in history, before and after. Today, it would be very difficult for a Jew to trace his tribal lineage, but in Jesus day, not only was it possible, but it was absolutely necessary if you wanted to establish one’s credibility and legal right to the rulership of Israel. It is for this reason, that Mathew begins his gospel with Christ’s genealogy. In Mathew 1:1 we read, “The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.”
Just briefly, it is important that the bible student be able here, to connect the dots between David and Christ. In other words, by connecting Christ to David, Mathew establishes Christ’s legal claim to the throne. In other words, in 2 Samuel 7, God through the Prophet Nathan, promised David that one of his descendants would rule over Israel forever, and Christ is the fulfillment of that promise to David. However, if we travel back further to Genesis chapter 12, God had not only promised Abraham that he would bless him and make his name great, but He would also make his descendant into a “great nation.” But in addition to making Abraham’s descendants into a great nation, God also made the incredible promise, that through his descendants, “all of the nations of the world would be blessed.” And again, we see that Christ is also the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham. In short, it is in reading all four gospel accounts of the life of Christ, that we can get the most complete and comprehensive picture of of Christ’s life, His Person and His ministry on earth.
Now, while even most non-believers can recite the Christmas story, it is important that the student of scripture fully understands the full magnitude of Christ’s birth. Just very briefly, in addition to being the central event in all of human history, a closer examination of the birth of Christ actually reveals a three-fold miracle: First of all, and the most obvious, is that Christ’s birth was a “biological miracle.” Now, I don’t think that there’s much doubt that a virgin giving birth, in itself, is a miracle because it defied and contradicted all known natural laws. In other words, in the natural world, virgins simply do not bear children. So obviously, God worked miraculously in Mary’s womb so that she could conceive the Son of God. Secondly, in addition to being a biological miracle, it was also a “moral miracle.” In other words, we know from scripture, that the sin nature of Adam was pass down to all of Adam’s decedents, but yet Christ was born as the sinless son of God. So, because of Christ’s virgin birth, which protected Him from Adam’s seed, that in the conception and the birth of Christ, God shielded Him from the contamination of Adam’s sin.
And finally, Christ’s birth was an “ontological miracle.” Now the word “ontological” is a word that refers to the nature or essence of something. And since Christ was both God and man, both human and divine, it was an ontological miracle, because in this one Person, we had a combination of both Deity and humanity. Luke in his inspired account, succinctly describes these three miracles when he records: 26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” 34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” 35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. 37 For no word from God will ever fail.” 38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her (Luke 1: 26-38). The birth of Christ represented a major focal point in all of human history. The miracles surrounding Christ’s birth was an indication to the world, and particularly those who had been in anxiously anticipation and expectation, that God had intervened in history.
Finally, it is important to keep in mind that while the entire Bible is inspired by God (2 Timothy 3:16), He used human authors with different backgrounds and personalities to accomplish His purposes through their writing. In other words, each of the gospel authors had a distinct purpose behind his gospel and in carrying out those purposes, each emphasized different aspects of the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. Matthew for example, was writing to a Hebrew audience, and one of his purposes was to show from Jesus’ genealogy and fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies that He was the long-expected Messiah, and thus should be believed in. Matthew’s emphasis is that Jesus is the promised King, the “Son of David,” who would forever sit upon the throne of Israel (Matthew 9:27; 21:9).
Mark, a cousin of Barnabas (Colossians 4:10), was an eyewitness to the events in the life of Christ as well as being a friend of the apostle Peter. Mark wrote for a Gentile audience, as is brought out by his not including things important to Jewish readers (genealogies, Christ’s controversies with Jewish leaders of His day, frequent references to the Old Testament, etc.). Mark emphasizes Christ as the suffering Servant, the One who came not to be served, but to serve and give His life a ransom for many (Mark 10:45).
Luke, the “beloved physician” (Colossians 4:14 KJV), evangelist, and companion of the apostle Paul, wrote both the gospel of Luke and the Acts of the apostles. Luke is the only Gentile author of the New Testament. He has long been accepted as a diligent master historian by those who have used his writings in genealogical and historical studies. As a historian, he states that it is his intent to write down an orderly account of the life of Christ based on the reports of those who were eyewitnesses (Luke 1:1-4). Because he specifically wrote for the benefit of Theophilus, apparently a Gentile of some stature, his gospel was composed with a Gentile audience in mind, and his intent is to show that a Christian’s faith is based upon historically reliable and verifiable events. Luke often refers to Christ as the “Son of Man,” emphasizing His humanity, and he shares many details that are not found in the other gospel accounts.
The gospel of John, written by John the apostle, is distinct from the other three Gospels and contains much theological content in regard to the person of Christ and the meaning of faith. Matthew, Mark, and Luke are referred to as the “Synoptic Gospels” because of their similar styles and content and because they give a synopsis of the life of Christ. The gospel of John begins not with Jesus’ birth or earthly ministry but with the activity and characteristics of the Son of God before He became man (John 1:14). The gospel of John emphasizes the deity of Christ, as is seen in his use of such phrases as “the Word was God” (John 1:1), “the Savior of the World” (John 4:42), the “Son of God” (used repeatedly), and “Lord and God” (John 20:28). In John’s gospel, Jesus also affirms His deity with several “I Am” statements; most notable among them is John 8:58, in which He states that “before Abraham was, I Am” (compare to Exodus 3:13-14). But John also emphasizes the fact of Jesus’ humanity, desiring to show the error of a religious sect of his day, the Gnostics, who did not believe in Christ’s humanity. John’s gospel spells out his overall purpose for writing: “Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:30-31).
Thus, in having four distinct and yet equally accurate accounts of Christ, different aspects of His person and ministry are revealed. Each account becomes like a different-colored thread in a tapestry woven together to form a more complete picture of this One who is beyond description. And while we will never fully understand everything about Jesus Christ (John 20:30), through the four Gospels we can know enough of Him to appreciate who He is and what He has done for us so that we may have life through faith in Him.
There have been many important births since the dawn of humanity. Consider for example, the births of the scientists who have given us things that make life easier. There have been researchers who have discovered treatments and cures for diseases and ailments. Great humanitarians who, through their tireless efforts, have eased the pain of many and helped them live productive lives. The births of those who grew up to be preachers and missionaries have blessed those to whom they have ministered. Great world leaders who had a major impact and influence on world history such as Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, George Washington, or Winston Churchill. However, one birth stands far above the rest. It is the most important birth there ever was or ever will be. It is the birth of Jesus Christ.
The ancient prophets of Israel all predicted the coming of the Messiah (Luke 24:44-48). Some mentioned that he would be the savior of the Jews and of all mankind, others mentioned that he would be meek and gentle and would perform mighty miracles healing the blind, raising the dead, and cleansing the lepers. Still others would talk about his coming to the earth as a man to die as a lamb, and also to return as a king to set up his throne upon the earth. The prophet Micah actually predicted the exact location of the Messiah’s birth, he said it would be in Bethlehem of Judah, a small and insignificant city, and the place where David was born. God had prepared the nation of Israel for 2000 years, reminding them that he was coming, yet when he arrived there was only a few to greet him. God faithfully kept all his promises to save all people from the sin that corrupted them. When the savior was born, his father called his name Jesus, because God himself would become a man and save people from their sins, which is the meaning of the name.
Only Two of the Four Gospels Record the Event of Christ’s Birth: MATHEW AND LUKE…..
Matthew records the events of the birth from Mary’s husband, Joseph’s lineage. 1:18.
Luke records events of the birth from Mary, the mother’s lineage. 1:26.
For the first century jew, it was IMPARATIVE to be able to trace your ancestry. It was ESSENTIAL for establishing your credentials and credibility in order to establish Christs LEGAL RIGHT to the throne.
Matthew 1:1
The Genealogy of Jesus the Messiah
1 The record of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of Abraham:
By identifying with David and Abraham, Mathew was establishing Christs legal right to the throne of Israel through his step father Joseph. This was because of the Abrahamic and Davidic covenants. (Gen. 12:1-3; 2Sam 7).
By Identifying Christ as a descendent of David and Abraham, Mathew was Verifying Christs LEGAL RIGHT TO THE THRONE.
Luke 3:38
38 the son of Enosh, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God.
Luke’s aim was identify Christs relationship to humanity, and also establishing his dual nature.
Birth/Childhood of John the Baptist – Luke 1:57-80; Mark 1 …
The birth of Christ was earmarked by a series of SUPERNATURAL VISITATIONS AND OCCURANCES.
The Birth of Christ – Matt. 1:18-25; Luke 2:1-11 (A NIGHT OF MIRACLES)…
The Miracles of Christ’s Birth
The month was probably April, the year was 5 B.C., when a young Jewish couple slowly made their way from Nazareth to the little town of Bethlehem, a trip of some 75-80 miles.
The Miracle of the Preparation First and most important, it was in God’s predetermined time (Gal. 4:4):
There was a Messianic expectation throughout the Jewish/Arab territories. The Jews were seeking a Deliverer to overthrow the hated Roman Government. Plus the expectation of hearing from God, since there had been no direct revelation from God for 400 years.
Next, the Roman government determined to complete a census of its people and their property by forcing them to return to their city of origin. (Which fulfilled Micah 5:2)…..
Also, an official and complete genealogy of every Jew was available in the Temple. Thus Jesus’ birth, in Matt. begins with His genealogy as the rightful heir to the throne of David the king.
The announcement of Christ’s birth was given to Shepherds by Angels, and was followed by worship from the Heavenly Hosts.
Last, far to the east a star appeared in the night sky.
The Word became flesh (John 1:1-18)
Jesus’ coming in flesh as a man is called the ‘incarnation’, a word that means ‘in the flesh’. The clear record of the Bible tells us that Jesus is God in human form. First, we must remember that Jesus existed prior to His incarnation, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made…And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:1-3, 14 ESV, cf. Colossians 1:15-17).
In one of Jesus’ prayers, He prays, “And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed” (John 17:5 ESV). Clearly, Jesus did not begin His existence when He appeared as a baby in a manger in Bethlehem. He had already existed from eternity past.
Date of Jesus’ birth: c. 6 or 5 BC
Briefly, historians say the birth of Jesus occurred around 6 or 5 BC. The Bible tells us that Jesus was born in the “fullness of time” (Galatians 4:4-5). Jesus’ birth took place at the time in history God chose. He had promised humanity a Savior in Genesis (3:15); and then set about to prepare humanity for the Savior’s arrival. God’s providence had arranged everything to culminate in the birth of the Savior in that stable on that night. The birth of the One who would give His life to pay for our sins.
Gabriel visits Mary (Luke 1:26-38)
Luke 1:26-38 tells us the story of the angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary. This must have been quite unnerving for Mary, a visit from a heavenly being telling her that she, a virgin, has been chosen to give birth to the Savior of the world. Mary was initially frightened until Gabriel told her that she had found favor with God. Gabriel explained to her that she would conceive a child by the power of the Holy Spirit. Believers rightly celebrate Jesus’ birth, but it was actually a normal birth; if being born in a stable can be called normal, that is. However, His conception was a one-time event that was unique in all of history.
The angel told Mary a few things about her soon-to-be-son:
He was to be called “Jesus” (1:31);
He will be great and be called the Son of the Most High (1:32);
God will give Him the throne of David (1:32);
there will be no end to His kingdom (1:33);
He will be called Holy-the Son of God (1:35).
Now, while this study is not intended to be an exhaustive look at the Life of Christ, the following illustrations gives you a timeline and overview of significant events during Christ’s three and one half years of earthly ministry:
Beginning of Christ’s MinistryJohn the Baptist’s Ministry
Beginning – Mark 1:1; Luke 2:1-2
Foretelling of Christ – [Matt. 3:11-12; Mark 1:7-8; Luke 3:15-18]
Baptism of Christ – [Matt. 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21-23; John 1:32-34]
Temptation of Christ – Matt. 4:1-11; Mark 1:12-13; Luke 4:1-13
John the Baptist testifies and identifies Jesus as Messiah – John 1:19-34
Jesus First Disciples – [Matt. 4:18-22; Mark 3:13-19, 2:14; Luke 5:1-11; John 1:35-51].
Jesus’ First Miracle (Water into Wine) – John 2:1-11
Jesus Travels to Capernaum and Cleansing of the Temple – John 2:12-22
John’s Last Testimony – John 3:22-36
Jesus Public Ministry Begins Early Galilean Ministry.
Jesus Leaves Judea, Arrives in Galilee but Goes Through Samaria and Woman at Well – [John 4:5-45]
Jesus begins His public ministry in Galilee. Sets His headquarters in Capernaum. [Math. 4:12-25].
The Sermon on the Mount [Math 5-7].
Feeds 5000 [Mark 6:30-44].
Jesus Answers Pharisees Reproach – Mark 7:1-23
Five of the More Significant Events in Christ’s Early Ministry:
Jesus Leaves Judea, Arrives in Galilee but Goes Through Samaria and Woman at Well – John 4:5-45.2.
Jesus begins His public ministry in Galilee. Sets His headquarters in Capernaum. [Math. 4:12-25].
The Sermon on the Mount – Matt. 5-7
Feeding of the 5000 – Mark 6:30-44.
Jesus Answers Pharisees Reproach – Mark 7:1-23.
In the end, Jesus’ most controversial act was that he repeatedly claimed to be God, which was a direct violation of the Jewish law. Therefore the religious leaders asked the Roman government to execute him. In each of several official trials, the Romans found that he was not guilty of breaking any Roman law. Even the Jewish leaders recognized that other than Jesus’ claim to be God, Jesus followed the Jewish law perfectly. Still the religious leaders, using the argument of political disfavor, persuaded Pilate, a Roman governor of the Southern province of Israel, to authorize an execution.
Jesus was brutally tortured and then hung by his hands, which were nailed to a horizontal wooden beam (cross). This method of execution restricted the airflow to his lungs, killing him in three hours. However, according to more than 500 witnesses, Jesus returned from the dead three days later, and over the next 40 days journeyed in both the southern and northern provinces of Israel. To many, this was conclusive proof that Jesus’ claims to be God were real. Then Jesus returned to Jerusalem, the city where he was recently executed, and according to witnesses, he left the earth alive by rising up into the sky.
As a result of these miraculous events, the number of his followers increased dramatically. Only a few months later in that same city of Jerusalem one record states that some 3000 new followers were added in a single day. The religious leaders responded by trying to stomp out Jesus’ followers. Many of these people chose to die rather than deny their belief that Jesus was truly God. And amazingly, within 100 years, people throughout the Roman empire (Asia Minor, Europe) became followers of Jesus. In 325 AD, the following of Jesus, Christianity, became the official religion of the Roman Emperor Constantine. Within 500 years, even Greece’s temples of Greek gods were transformed into churches for followers of Jesus. Although some of Jesus’ messages and teachings were diluted or miscommunicated through the expansion of a religious institution, Jesus’ original words and life still speak loudly for themselves to us today.
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