CONTENTS

Cover

Welcome

The Wayfinding Bible User’s Guide

About The Wayfinding Bible

The Flyover Route

WELCOME

Welcome to the World’s Biggest Small Group. WAY-FM has partnered with the Wayfinding Bible, and in 8 weeks we are going to read through the Bible. I know that sounds daunting, but we are going to do this by taking the Wayfinding Bible’s flyover route, where we will explore the major concepts of the Bible in only about 50 readings. There are two other routes you can follow that will take you deeper should you choose to after we finish.

The idea behind this is for all of us to go deeper in our faith by finding out who God is by spending time in his word. I am excited about this because I have not read through the Bible and I really anticipate this changing the way I live out my faith on a daily basis.

There are so many ways you can be part of the World’s Biggest Small Group. Sign up for our daily email, download the free Wayfinding Bible eBook for your smart phone, e-reader, or computer. You can also Join our Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/wallyshow/), follow along at group.wayfm.com, or purchase the Wayfinding Bible at your local Christian bookstore.

To remove any excuses not to get involved, we have made the World's Biggest Small Group free and easy. Plus, the more involved you are, the more points you will earn for a chance to see the things you have read in the Wayfinding Bible in real life with a Grand Prize trip to the Holy land. All the details on the trip can be found at group.wayfm.com.

At WAY-FM, it's our mission to influencing this generation to love and follow Jesus through media that's relevant and compelling. We have a deep passion to reach people at various places in their spiritual journey—unchurched, new believers, mature believers—with life-changing music and messages. We love to encourage people to read the Bible and that's what The World's Biggest Small Group is all about.

So join the World’s Biggest Small Group today. The video below will help you get your bearings and get you started on this amazing journey!

http://group.wayfm.com/welcome

THE WAYFINDING BIBLE USER’S GUIDE

1 CHOOSE YOUR ROUTE

The Wayfinding Bible offers three routes through the Bible using the innovative Bible Mapping System. Each route will take you through a series of chronological readings that capture the main storyline in God’s Word. Select which route is right for you. These icons mark the beginning of each reading.

THE FLYOVER ROUTE—In 54 readings you’ll gain a chronological overview of the events of the Bible.

THE DIRECT ROUTE—In 215 readings you gain a full perspective of the entire Bible and how it fits together, all in less than a year.

THE SCENIC ROUTE—In 386 readings you’ll discover the depth and richness of God’s Word as you wind your way through well-known and not-so-well-known passages alike.

2 FOLLOW THE STOPS

On your route, each stop is clearly marked so you will always know where you are on your journey.

3 READ THE PASSAGE

When you get to your stop, read the introduction first. Then read the Bible passage.

The end of each reading is clearly marked with icons like this:

4 DISCOVER THESE FEATURES

Along the way, you’ll discover lots of extra features to help you better understand God’s Word.

BOOK INTRODUCTIONS

Book Introductions will help you understand why each book was written, what the book is about, and what events were happening around the same time. You’ll also see ways that each book points you toward Jesus.

GETTING YOUR BEARINGS

At eight critical points along the way, you’ll pause, step back, and review your journey so far. Then you’ll look at where you’re going next. You’ll also have a chance to see where Jesus, either directly or indirectly, has been involved in the story. A timeline and world map give you a sense of when and where all this is happening and show world history events for added context.

HISTORICAL MARKERS

Historical Markers will draw your attention to specific locations and the events that happened there. These markers will shed light on the stories you’re reading and will fill in background details you might not know.

SCENIC OVERLOOKS

Scenic Overlooks will allow you to pause and see many of the significant locations mentioned in the Bible. You’ll also gain more insight into the history, the people, and God’s Word itself as you explore the full-color infographics.

SIDE TRIPS

In the margins throughout this Bible, you’ll see markers for various Side Trips. These twenty-five topic-based trips will highlight various Scripture passages that will show you what the Bible has to say about each topic. You can find a full listing of these Side Trips in the back of this Bible, or you can simply pick up and follow any marker you encounter while reading.

5 ENJOY THE JOURNEY

No matter which route you choose, we know your Wayfinding journey through God’s story will give you a greater understanding of the biblical narrative and a closer, more intimate relationship with God.

Click the flyover icon to start the Flyover route

ABOUT THE WAYFINDING BIBLE

Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you.

PSALM 25:4-5

The Wayfinding Bible has been created to encourage the reading of God’s Word. Many people want to read the Bible—or want to read it more often—but they’re challenged by its rich complexity. It is over a thousand pages long, it was written dozens of centuries ago in cultures very different from ours, and it consists of sixty-six separate books that aren’t arranged in typical chronological order.

In many ways, navigating the Bible is like navigating an unfamiliar environment—a large city, a confusing hospital, or a new airport. Because people often get lost in these types of environments, architects and urban planners use wayfinding signs to help people find their way around and minimize their frustration. These signs show your present location, help you select the best route, and enable you to journey from one point to another without getting lost.

The Wayfinding Bible draws from the science of wayfinding to help you successfully navigate God’s Word. Route lines across the top of the pages provide easy-to-follow paths through Scripture. Getting Your Bearings articles orient you when the Bible’s story takes a significant turn. Historical Markers and Scenic Overlooks add cultural information and visual details to enrich your reading. The Wayfinding Bible helps new Bible readers find their way with confidence, even as it encourages experienced readers to explore familiar territory from a unique perspective.

Throughout the development of The Wayfinding Bible, an advisory committee consisting of Bible readers of various backgrounds reviewed the features and designs. We are very grateful for the time and advice provided by these committee members.

Doris Rikkers
Jeannette Taylor

Thank you for using this sample of the Flyover Route from The Wayfinding Bible. To learn more, go to wayfindingbible.com.

Jump back to the Flyover route

The Flyover Route

Getting Your Bearings: The Beginning

1. Genesis 1:1–2:25: The Account of Creation

2. Genesis 3:1-24: The Man and Woman Sin

3. Genesis 7:1–8:22: The Flood Covers the Earth

4. Genesis 15:1-21: The Lord’s Covenant Promise to Abram

5. Genesis 17:1–18:15; 21:1-7: A Son Is Promised to Sarah

6. Genesis 32:22-32: Jacob Wrestles with God

7. Genesis 37:1-36: Joseph’s Dreams

Getting Your Bearings: Waiting for a Deliverer

8. Exodus 1:8–2:10: The Israelites in Egypt

9. Exodus 13:17–14:31: Escape through the Red Sea

10. Exodus 19:16–20:21: The Lord Reveals Himself at Sinai

11. Numbers 9:1-23: God’s Presence with His People

12. Joshua 5:13–6:27: The Fall of Jericho

Getting Your Bearings: Possessing the Promised Land

13. 1 Samuel 3:1–4:11: The Lord Speaks to Samuel

14. Judges 16:4-31: Samson and Delilah

15. 1 Samuel 17:1-58: David Kills Goliath

16. 1 Kings 3:1-28: Solomon Asks for Wisdom

Getting Your Bearings: The Kingdoms of Israel and Judah

17. 1 Kings 12:1-33: The Northern Tribes Revolt

18. 1 Kings 16:29–17:24: King Ahab and the Prophet Elijah

19. Jonah 1:1–2:10: Jonah Runs from the Lord

20. 2 Kings 17:1-23: Death of a Nation

21. 2 Chronicles 24:1-27: Joash Repairs the Temple

22. Isaiah 11:1-16: A Branch from David’s Line

23. Jeremiah 52:1-30: The Fall of Jerusalem

24. Ezekiel 37:1-14: A Valley of Dry Bones

25. Daniel 6:1-28: Daniel in the Lions’ Den

Getting Your Bearings: Waiting for Restoration

26. Ezra 3:1-13: The People Begin to Rebuild the Temple

Getting Your Bearings: Between the Testaments: Waiting for the Messiah

27. Luke 1:5-56: Two Births Foretold

28. Luke 2:1-52: The Birth of Jesus

29. Matthew 3:13-17: The Baptism of Jesus

30. Matthew 5:1-26: The Sermon on the Mount

31. John 6:1-14: Jesus Feeds Five Thousand

32. John 9:1-41: Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind

33. John 14:1-31: Jesus, the Way to the Father

34. Mark 15:1-47: The Death of Jesus

35. Luke 24:1-12: The Resurrection

36. Acts 1:1-11: The Ascension of Jesus

37. Acts 2:1-47: The Holy Spirit Comes

Getting Your Bearings: The Church Begins

38. Acts 3:1-11: Peter Heals a Crippled Beggar

39. Acts 9:1-31: Saul’s Conversion

40. Acts 10:1-48: Peter Visits Cornelius

41. Acts 15:1-35: The Council at Jerusalem: Conflict over Gentiles

42. 1 Corinthians 13:1-13: Love Is the Greatest

43. Philippians 2:1-18: Have the Attitude of Christ

44. Hebrews 11:1-40: Great Examples of Faith

45. Revelation 21:1–22:6: The New Jerusalem

46. Revelation 22:7-21: Jesus Is Coming

Getting Your Bearings: Waiting for Christ

FLYOVER ROUTE ITINERARY

THE BEGINNING

God’s story has no beginning or end, but our part in it begins when he creates the heavens and the earth. God has big plans for his creation. He creates humans in his own image, giving them both dominion over all creation and also the privilege of being in intimate relationship with him. The first humans enjoy direct fellowship and conversation with God until they choose to violate God’s only commandment. The communion they had with their Creator is gone, and evil permeates God’s creation. Things are no longer the way they are supposed to be. God punishes humanity, but he doesn’t destroy them. In fact, he already has a plan to restore the relationship he intended to have with them.

WHERE ARE WE GOING?

We get glimpses of God’s plan even in the earliest stories of the Bible. When creation becomes consumed with sin, God cleanses the world with a flood, sparing the righteous Noah and his family. When it is all over, God sends a rainbow as a sign of his promise to never again send such a catastrophe.

God eventually selects one man, Abraham, through whom he will restore his close relationship with humanity. God promises to bless Abraham and his family by making them his chosen people. They will represent God to the world and demonstrate his desire to reunite with all humanity.

Abraham and his family are far from perfect. In fact, Genesis records the many failures of God’s chosen people right alongside the stories of their faithfulness. God is at work in this family, transforming them into the kind of people he wants as his representatives on earth.

JESUS AS TRUE NORTH

Although thousands of years will pass before Jesus Christ comes to earth as a baby, he is present with God even before creation. Christ “existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth” (Colossians 1:15-16). Everything in the Old Testament points the way to Jesus. He embodies God’s ultimate plan for restoring fellowship with his people and for renewing his creation.

WHERE IN THE WORLD ARE WE?

NEXT STOP

THE ACCOUNT OF CREATION

THE ACCOUNT OF CREATION

THE ACCOUNT OF CREATION

READING 1

PREVIOUS STOP

THE BEGINNING

THE BEGINNING

THE BEGINNING

THE ACCOUNT OF CREATION

Before the beginning there is only God. The story of Creation is a story about God, what he does and how he interacts with his creation. By God’s hand, everything comes into existence out of nothing. He builds it all with grandeur, makes each creature with attention and care, and calls everything good. The Creation story shows us how much God loves all that he has made. This is the beginning of the big story—God’s story told in the Bible.

READ:

GEN 1:1–2:25

2 OF 54

GEN 1:1–2:25

2 OF 215

GEN 1:1–2:25

2 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The first two chapters of Genesis provide the only record we have of a perfect world. This is what perfection looks like. God wanted this world for all of us. Notice the activities that existed before sin invaded. Contrary to what most people believe, work was part of the good creation: God created, blessed, and planted; man tended the garden, watched over it, and named the animals. Man and woman were to be fruitful, multiply, govern the earth, and reign over the animals. God rested, man slept. These were all perfect activities.

EXPLORATION POINT

The climax of God’s creation was the formation of humans. Male and female were made in his image. You are like him. Out of all of Creation, you carry his image, breathed into you by his breath of life. No other part of Creation can claim to have his image or his breath. You are infused with his likeness through your moral conscience and spiritual awareness. When you are feeling beaten down and questioning yourself, these truths can be of great encouragement!

END OF READING 1

NEXT STOP

THE MAN AND WOMAN SIN

THE MAN AND WOMAN SIN

THE MAN AND WOMAN SIN

READING 2

PREVIOUS STOP

THE ACCOUNT OF CREATION

THE ACCOUNT OF CREATION

THE ACCOUNT OF CREATION

THE MAN AND WOMAN SIN

Adam and Eve are free to roam, to enjoy the garden and the animals, and to walk and talk with God. They live with only one restriction—to not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. But they choose to defy God and eat the tree’s fruit. Then sin enters the world; it divides everything and uncertainty reigns. Adam and Eve are separated from God, but God continues to love them. Even though sin enters the world, changing everything, God’s big story continues.

READ:

GEN 3:1-24

3 OF 54

GEN 3:1-24

3 OF 215

GEN 3:1-24

3 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

God settled Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden with a wide variety of fruit-producing trees to satisfy their hunger. He also created two special trees that grew in the middle of the Garden: the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, and the tree of life. God clearly told Adam not to eat the fruit of the first tree, but he didn’t restrict the second. Adam and Eve had the opportunity to eat from the tree of life, but the Bible never says that they did. The serpent pointed out God’s one restriction, causing Eve to doubt God and then disobey him.

EXPLORATION POINT

The story of how sin came into the world is known as the Fall. It answers the question, “Why is there evil in the world?” Although Eve disobeyed God’s command first by eating the fruit and Adam followed her, Adam is the one who represents all humanity separated from God. Adam’s disobedience and sin separate everyone from God, but Christ’s righteousness and sacrifice reunite us with him. Humanity suffers under God’s indictment and conviction because of Adam’s actions; however, God graciously offers humanity a way of salvation through Jesus Christ (the second Adam).

END OF READING 2

NEXT STOP

THE FLOOD COVERS THE EARTH

CAIN AND ABEL

CAIN AND ABEL

READING 3

PREVIOUS STOP

THE MAN AND WOMAN SIN

A WORLD GONE WRONG

A WORLD GONE WRONG

THE FLOOD COVERS THE EARTH

The sin of Adam and Eve has spread to all their offspring, and their sin has become a curse to all creation. Everywhere people dream of more and more sin. But God does not give up. God will not allow sin to have the victory in his big story. Instead, in his love he sends a flood to cleanse the world, and he begins again with Noah and his family. He waits until Noah finishes building the boat and everything is ready. Then the rain pours down and the underground waters gush up out of every crevice. Soon everything is submerged.

READ:

GEN 7:1–8:22

4 OF 54

GEN 7:1–8:22

6 OF 215

GEN 7:1–8:22

6 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

To find out if any dry ground was available, Noah had to send something out of the ark. He first selected the raven, a large, black scavenger that could survive in the harsh post-flood conditions since it ate decaying corpses. The raven’s release didn’t tell Noah much about the water levels, since it could find places to rest even if the water was still high. Releasing the dove would provide more useful information since this bird refused to rest on floating debris or a corpse. On its second flight, the dove returned with an olive branch, so Noah knew that the olive trees, which grew in the lower plains, were sprouting again.

EXPLORATION POINT

We’ve all seen flooding; if not firsthand, we’ve seen it on video clips—spring floods of the Mississippi River, hurricanes on southern coastlines, and tsunamis in Japan. We’ve also seen post-flood devastation—bloated bodies, mucky debris, broken trees, and colorless vegetation. There’s nothing pretty “after the flood.” Starting over is difficult. But God’s presence and his promise strengthened Noah to persevere; he will strengthen us too during difficult times.

Remember, join the conversation about today’s reading with the World's Biggest Small Group at group.wayfm.com.

END OF READING 3

NEXT STOP

THE LORD’S COVENANT PROMISE TO ABRAM

GOD CONFIRMS HIS COVENANT WITH NOAH

GOD CONFIRMS HIS COVENANT WITH NOAH

READING 4

PREVIOUS STOP

THE FLOOD COVERS THE EARTH

THE CALL OF ABRAM

ABRAM AND LOT SEPARATE

THE LORD’S COVENANT PROMISE TO ABRAM

God’s flood did not wash away sin completely. Sin spreads until people once again live in open defiance of God. Still, God loves his world and wants to reconnect with it. So he finds a new man, Abram, and makes a covenant with him. He promises to bless Abram, and through him, God will bless the whole world. Abram believes and obeys God; as a result his whole life changes. But as God’s big story continues, Abram grows anxious that he has no son to inherit God’s blessings. Then one day Abram has a vision from the Lord.

READ:

GEN 15:1-21

5 OF 54

GEN 15:1-21

9 OF 215

GEN 15:1-21

11 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Cutting animals in half was a cultural custom of this time and region. It signified a sacred agreement—or covenant—between two parties. Together, both parties divided an animal in half and then walked between the two pieces, sealing the agreement. The act symbolized that a person would die like the animal if he broke the covenant. God used that custom and ritual but expanded it to include a goat, a ram, and two birds. He elevated it to a sacred level.

EXPLORATION POINT

God made covenants with Adam and Eve, with Noah, with Abram, and with others in order to reveal himself to humans and restore the relationship he had with his creation at the beginning. This restoration is God’s ongoing plan. Throughout the Old Testament, God made covenants with his people. God’s son, Jesus, is the ultimate revelation of God to humans. Jesus inaugurated the New Covenant between God and his people. God connected with Adam, Noah, and Abram by using common cultural signs and rituals that they could relate to. God later connected to all humanity by sending his Son, Jesus Christ, to earth as a human like us.

END OF READING 4

NEXT STOP

A SON IS PROMISED TO SARAH

THE BIRTH OF ISHMAEL

THE BIRTH OF ISHMAEL

READING 5

PREVIOUS STOP

THE LORD’S COVENANT PROMISE TO ABRAM

THE BIRTH OF ISHMAEL

THE BIRTH OF ISHMAEL

A SON IS PROMISED TO SARAH

When God speaks, things happen. God calls Abram to follow, and Abram’s entire life changes, including his name: God calls him Abraham, “the father of many.” Abraham’s name change isn’t a hand-wringing hope, it is a firm declaration: God is going to save the whole world, starting with a baby boy. But thirteen years after God first promised him a son, Abraham’s wife Sarah still is not pregnant. So the Lord appears again to confirm his covenant with Abram and reaffirm his promise of a son. The next chapter in the big story starts with the birth of a baby.

READ:

GEN 17:1–18:15; 21:1-7

6 OF 54

GEN 17:1–18:15; 21:1-7

11 OF 215

GEN 17:1–18:15

13 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

In Hebrew culture, names and their meanings had great significance. The name given to a child at birth often had some connection to his or her appearance or birth order (see the footnotes on Genesis 25:25, 26). People’s names were sometimes changed when they had a life-changing experience. Changing Abram to Abraham signified a slight variation: Abram means “exalted father,” while Abraham sounds like the Hebrew term for “father of many.” The change from Sarai to Sarah was just a change in spelling, probably because of differences between the languages of Ur and Canaan; both names mean “princess.”

EXPLORATION POINT

It’s easy for us to ridicule Sarah’s audacity to laugh at God. But aren’t we guilty of this every time we doubt that God can handle our conundrums? Unfortunately, we think that God’s solution must fit into our paradigms. But God can work outside our most outlandish expectations. Nothing is too hard for the Lord: neither having an old woman get pregnant, nor curing someone of cancer, nor solving a problem that baffles us, nor bringing peace to a war-torn nation. The next time you face something that appears impossible, hand over the situation to God, then wait—you have an opportunity to see how God will handle it. Nothing is too hard for him.

END OF READING 5

NEXT STOP

JACOB WRESTLES WITH GOD

ABRAHAM’S FAITH TESTED

SODOM AND GOMORRAH

READING 6

PREVIOUS STOP

A SON IS PROMISED TO SARAH

JACOB MARRIES LEAH AND RACHEL

JACOB FLEES FROM LABAN

JACOB WRESTLES WITH GOD

Isaac’s son Jacob left his home in Canaan and traveled to Paddan-aram, where he married and became wealthy. But conflict forces him to return to Canaan. When Jacob stops at the Jabbok River, God comes to him at night and gives him a new name to remind him of God’s promise: God will fight for his people, defending them and defeating their enemies. In God’s big story, he will continually fight to be united with those he loves.

READ:

GEN 32:22-32

7 OF 54

GEN 32:22-32

17 OF 215

GEN 32:22-32

23 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Crossing the river at night was strategic. Jacob didn’t want anyone to detect his family’s movements or how large the group was. He was a very wealthy man with many children, wives, servants, and herds of sheep, goats, camels, donkeys, and cattle. Such a large group would have been easily spotted during the day and open to attack from humans or wild animals.

EXPLORATION POINT

Jacob had lived up to his name: “deceiver.” He had schemed against Esau to get the family blessing. This middle-of-the-night wrestling match put an end to that way of living. By morning, Jacob finally submitted to God’s control and trusted God to bless him. Jacob’s new name, Israel—meaning “God fights”—signified a shift as well: God would fight for Jacob and his family as they grew to be God’s people—the people of Israel.

If you need to talk to someone, or maybe even some prayer, there is a way to live chat from your computer, here. bit.ly/TWS-Talk

END OF READING 6

NEXT STOP

JOSEPH’S DREAMS

JOB’S TRIALS AND ANGUISH

JOB’S TRIALS AND ANGUISH

READING 7

PREVIOUS STOP

JACOB WRESTLES WITH GOD

THE LORD BLESSES JOB

JOYS OF THE GODLY

JOSEPH’S DREAMS

When Jacob returns to Canaan, he reconciles with his brother Esau. Both men are very wealthy, with large families and herds of livestock. Eventually Esau moves away, while Jacob remains in Canaan with his twelve sons, including Joseph, his favorite. But trouble is brewing. Jacob’s favoritism infects his other sons with jealousy and hatred. They retaliate and betray Joseph. Yet God has a plan. He has a big story to write. He is working through Joseph to preserve his chosen people.

READ:

GEN 37:1-36

8 OF 54

GEN 37:1-36

21 OF 215

GEN 37:1-36

30 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

What exactly made Joseph’s robe so beautiful is uncertain. Traditionally it is called “a coat of many colors,” but it may have been more ornate, not just colorful. It probably had long, loose sleeves. The fabric may have been very colorful, embroidered with colored threads or adorned with jewels. Whatever it looked like, it was a very special piece of clothing that indicated Joseph was his father’s favorite.

EXPLORATION POINT

Showing favoritism is never constructive, especially in a family. This story shows how bad it can get. Young and naïve, Joseph made matters worse by recounting his dreams to his brothers. Their pent-up anger and jealousy eventually led to violence and attempted murder. Only Reuben wanted to save Joseph, but he was too late. The sins of this family caused great suffering. Extreme love was tarnished by favoritism, jealousy, and resentment. But God used all these sins in his plan for their ultimate good. Joseph, the object of his brothers’ hatred, would become a hero in another time and place.

END OF READING 7

NEXT STOP

WAITING FOR A DELIVERER

JOSEPH IN EGYPT

JUDAH AND TAMAR

FLYOVER ROUTE ITINERARY

PREVIOUS STOP

JOSEPH’S DREAMS

JOSEPH REVEALS HIS IDENTITY

THE DEATHS OF JACOB AND JOSEPH

YEAR:

1800 BC

CURRENT WORLD POWER:

Egypt

STATUS OF GOD’S PEOPLE:

Suffering Slaves

WAITING FOR A DELIVERER

God’s nation has grown ever so slowly from Abraham and his one son to a third generation consisting of seventy family members. God has faithfully kept his covenant, blessing each generation with more children. He has revealed himself in angelic encounters and even in a wrestling match. His chosen family is not perfect, but they continue to believe and trust in the one true God. Famine forces them to immigrate to Egypt, where God, through Joseph, has prepared a safe place for his people to grow and thrive. God’s people, the Hebrews, are safe and at rest for hundreds of years.

During this 400-year gap between Genesis and Exodus, God’s people become a large and “extremely powerful” group. The Egyptians see this as a threat, so they enslave and oppress God’s people. The Hebrews’ lives are uncomfortable and full of suffering, but it is all part of God’s plan—to ready them for change, to move them from slavery to freedom, and to claim them as his own. The process will be difficult and God’s reward is a distant promise, but the Hebrews will not journey alone. God will be with them every step of the way.

WHERE ARE WE GOING?

As Exodus opens, the Hebrews are slaves in Egypt, living under harsh working conditions. They cry out to God to save them from Pharaoh. God hears them and has a plan, but it will be eighty years before the man whom he has in mind will be ready to lead God’s people out of Egypt. When the time is right, God frees his people from human oppression and claims them for himself, promising them a land that overflows with plenty. God’s presence surrounds the new nation, providing for the people as they wander in the wilderness for forty years on the way to their new home in Canaan.

JESUS AS TRUE NORTH

Since the beginning of time and the fall of humanity, God has had a plan to reconnect with his people. In Genesis, he revealed more of himself over time to a chosen group of people. Each generation who obeyed and loved him was blessed by his presence and love. It will be a very long time until Jesus comes—almost two thousand years—but with each interaction, each promise, and each leader, God reveals himself a little more and brings his people a step closer to Jesus.

WHERE IN THE WORLD ARE WE?

NEXT STOP

THE ISRAELITES IN EGYPT

THE ISRAELITES IN EGYPT

THE ISRAELITES IN EGYPT

READING 8

PREVIOUS STOP

WAITING FOR A DELIVERER

WAITING FOR A DELIVERER

WAITING FOR A DELIVERER

THE ISRAELITES IN EGYPT

God’s chosen family that started with Abraham grows into a powerful minority living in Goshen, Egypt. Four hundred years after Abraham’s great-grandson Joseph was forced into slavery in Egypt, God has fulfilled his promise. Abraham has indeed become the father of many, but the many are suffering terrible treatment. The pharaoh of Egypt, threatened by their population, works them hard as his slaves and even resorts to infanticide. But God doesn’t let an earthly ruler control his big story. God works through one brave Hebrew mother who dares to defy the royal decree.

READ:

EXOD 1:8–2:10

10 OF 54

EXOD 1:1–2:10

27 OF 215

EXOD 1:1–2:25

39 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The Hebrews did not become slaves immediately after Joseph died. They were probably a free people living in Goshen for a hundred years. Then a tribe from Mesopotamia, whom the Egyptians called Hyksos (meaning “shepherd kings”), invaded Egypt and took over. When Egypt finally regained its freedom from this invading dynasty, the people were wary of all Semitic tribes, including the Hebrews.

EXPLORATION POINT

Why would a loving God let his chosen people suffer for hundreds of years? We cannot understand it completely. God has a plan that is being fulfilled every day; how suffering fits into his plan is often a mystery to us. Amazingly, the Hebrews remained faithful to the God of their ancestors through all these years of hardship. They remained steadfast in their faith, praying to God, the source of deliverance and salvation. And God proved faithful, too. God often asks us to remain faithful through pain and heartache. When we are faithful, we will see God’s own faithfulness in return.

Remember, join the conversation about today’s reading with the World's Biggest Small Group at group.wayfm.com.

END OF READING 8

NEXT STOP

ESCAPE THROUGH THE RED SEA

MOSES IN MIDIAN

MOSES IN MIDIAN

READING 9

PREVIOUS STOP

THE ISRAELITES IN EGYPT

THE PASSOVER AND THE EXODUS

THE PASSOVER AND THE EXODUS

ESCAPE THROUGH THE RED SEA

God chooses Moses to rescue his people from the clutches of Egypt’s Pharaoh, and Moses reluctantly agrees. Then God turns his own Creation into weapons of war to convince Pharaoh to free the Hebrews. Now, with Egypt behind them, the people encounter their first major obstacle—a body of water too wide to cross and too deep to wade through. They have begun to taste the freedom of living in God’s big story, but God is determined to see them also live by faith in him. Their first faith-test is trusting God to safely move two million people through the Red Sea.

READ:

EXOD 13:17–14:31

11 OF 54

EXOD 13:17–14:31

33 OF 215

EXOD 13:17–14:31

47 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Strong hot winds, called sirocco winds, are well known in the Arabian Desert. They are strong enough to move large quantities of water aside and expose river beds. Some have wondered if this sort of wind was involved here. However, God’s intervention still would have been needed to maintain the walls of water long enough for the people to cross. And the gale-force wind, impossible to walk in, would have had to stop before the Israelites could move forward. God’s miraculous timing was also needed to allow the Egyptian army to enter the sea before it closed over them. No natural explanation can fully account for the amazing events that took place that day.

EXPLORATION POINT

God’s intent was to display his power to the Egyptians and destroy their entire army. Through this final destruction, God showed Pharaoh that the Lord Almighty was in control—not a powerful pharaoh with his army of horses and warrior-driven chariots. This wall of water awed the people of Israel and inspired them to trust in Moses and God. Unfortunately, they needed constant miraculous signs and wonders to keep on trusting.

END OF READING 9

NEXT STOP

THE LORD REVEALS HIMSELF AT SINAI

MANNA AND QUAIL FROM HEAVEN

MANNA AND QUAIL FROM HEAVEN

READING 10

PREVIOUS STOP

ESCAPE THROUGH THE RED SEA

A PRAYER OF MOSES

JETHRO’S VISIT TO MOSES

THE LORD REVEALS HIMSELF AT SINAI

Two months after crossing the Red Sea, the Hebrews set up camp at the foot of Mount Sinai. They are ready to encounter God. God is ready to reveal himself to them and provide them with rules for living as holy people in his presence. The law God wrote down wasn’t a set of arbitrary rules or some useful legal code, it described how to live life in harmony with God himself, with his people, and with his Creation. In the big story, God’s law provided the details not just for holy living but for thriving in his world.

READ:

EXOD 19:16–20:21

12 OF 54

EXOD 19:16–20:21

36 OF 215

EXOD 19:1–20:26

52 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Moses prepared the people to meet God, instructing them in how to set themselves apart as his people. The people washed their clothes and abstained from sexual relations. They needed time to get into the right frame of mind, to have a proper sense of awe and reverence for God. By following the Ten Commandments and other laws given at Sinai, God’s people would learn to live in a vital relationship with their holy God and to establish a just and healthy community.

EXPLORATION POINT

The people gradually learned to know and trust God through the steps they took in leaving Egypt—the Passover and Exodus; their crossing the Red Sea; the supply of water, manna, and quail; and their victory in battle. Those events taught the Hebrews to trust God and know him as their reliable, loving Provider. Now God wanted to reveal more of himself by coming down to Mount Sinai and displaying his presence, glory, and power to the people.

END OF READING 10

NEXT STOP

GOD’S PRESENCE WITH HIS PEOPLE

THE GOLD CALF

A PROMISE OF THE LORD’S PRESENCE

READING 11

PREVIOUS STOP

THE LORD REVEALS HIMSELF AT SINAI

THE LOVE OF GOD’S LAW

NAZIRITE LAWS

GOD’S PRESENCE WITH HIS PEOPLE

A year after God’s people crossed the Red Sea, God calls them to remember their deliverance from Egypt by celebrating the Passover. God provides detailed instructions for observing the Passover, but he graciously allows flexibility in the observance and welcomes foreigners to participate. God is fulfilling his promise to Abraham: His blessings are spreading out through Abraham’s descendants and beyond. He reminds them all of his presence through the cloud and fire hovering over the Tabernacle. In God’s big story, his people find freedom and blessing by living in his presence.

READ:

NUM 9:1-23

13 OF 54

NUM 9:1-23

41 OF 215

NUM 9:1-23

70 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

God used familiar sights to show his presence: a cloud during the day that glowed like fire at night. Since leaving Egypt, the people had been protected by God’s presence. The cloud had protected them from Pharaoh’s army that charged after them, and it had led them through the Red Sea. As the Tabernacle stood in the center of Israel’s camp, the cloud hovered over it, signifying God’s presence with his people. When the cloud moved, the nation followed; when it stopped, they settled down.

EXPLORATION POINT

Many of us would love to have a sign as visible and obvious as a cloud or a pillar of fire to show us where God was leading. This was an effective way of providing guidance when God’s people were all in one place at one time and numbered about two million. Today, we have something better: God’s holy Word—the Bible—and God’s Holy Spirit, present within us, to guide us.

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END OF READING 11

NEXT STOP

THE FALL OF JERICHO

THE PEOPLE COMPLAIN TO MOSES

THE PEOPLE COMPLAIN TO MOSES

READING 12

PREVIOUS STOP

GOD’S PRESENCE WITH HIS PEOPLE

RAHAB PROTECTS THE SPIES

THE ISRAELITES CROSS THE JORDAN

THE FALL OF JERICHO

After their long journey, God’s people cross the flooded Jordan River and set foot in the Promised Land. But some of their biggest trials still await them. God has commanded them to drive out the people currently living in the land, but he doesn’t send them out to battle alone. The “commander of the LORD’s army”—God himself—will lead them. Throughout the big story, God continually makes contact with his people. He appeared to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and now Joshua. His presence inspires fear, awe, and courage. He gives instructions that require trust and perseverance, and he stays with his people through it all.

READ:

JOSH 5:13–6:27

14 OF 54

JOSH 5:13–6:27

49 OF 215

JOSH 5:13–6:27

89 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Capturing Jericho involved both religious rituals and military strategy. Military tactics of this time period included besieging the city, circling around it, and blowing the ram’s horn as a signal of battle. Religious practices included following behind the Ark, a symbol of God’s presence; using the sacred number seven and its multiples; and shouting to celebrate God’s victory. This was a new kind of warfare, led by God.

EXPLORATION POINT

Psychological warfare is nothing new. At Jericho, the Hebrews’ shouting would have terrified the people of the city. They were the feared warriors of that time and place. Yet their conflict was won not with weapons but through trust and obedience to God, allowing him to win the battle for his people. This type of warfare was acceptable only in the Old Testament under God’s direct command. Christ preached that we should take an entirely new approach to our enemies: love, not hate. We should promote peace as Christ did, not conflict.

END OF READING 12

NEXT STOP

POSSESSING THE PROMISED LAND

ISRAEL DEFEATS CANAAN’S SOUTHERN ARMIES

ISRAEL DEFEATS CANAAN’S SOUTHERN ARMIES

FLYOVER ROUTE ITINERARY

PREVIOUS STOP

THE FALL OF JERICHO

ISRAEL DEFEATS CANAAN’S SOUTHERN ARMIES

JOSHUA’S FINAL WORDS TO ISRAEL

YEAR:

1375 BC

CURRENT WORLD POWER:

Egypt

STATUS OF GOD’S PEOPLE:

Emerging Nation

POSSESSING THE PROMISED LAND

During Israel’s forty years of wandering in the wilderness, God prepared his people to become a nation and taught them to rely on him. Now, at last, Israel is ready to take up residence in the Promised Land. God leads the people into battle, providing victory after victory. After about thirty years, Israel’s army has conquered every city-state in Canaan, but they have left many of the local people living alongside them.

Finally, the Hebrews settle down in the areas designated for each of the twelve tribes. The first part of God’s promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob has been fulfilled: they were living in the land. God is with his people in every region as they enjoy peace and rest. But God’s plan is not yet complete—he desires for the people to, in turn, bless all nations. Years pass. Before Joshua dies at age 110, he challenges the Hebrews to serve the Lord, and they unanimously promise to do so. Unfortunately, their oath lasts only as long as the elders who served under Joshua’s leadership. In a short time, the people forget about their vow to serve the Lord and obey him alone. They blend their worship of God with the local people’s worship of pagan gods. Some desert God completely.

WHERE ARE WE GOING?

For the next 325 years, God’s people will experience cycles of disobedience, punishment, confession, and restoration: They forget God and worship idols; God allows an enemy to punish them; the people cry to God for deliverance; God sends a judge to save them; they return to obeying and loving God. Then the pattern repeats. Oppressive enemies arise from the areas surrounding the Promised Land, and at different times they attack various Israelite tribes, but not all of Israel at once. Some judges have great influence in one area and not in another. Some judges overlap as Israel’s leaders but rule in different regions. Occasionally peace reigns; at other times violence and discord erupts. Twelve judges guide Israel until the people demand a king. Although God is with his people, the people are not with God. They ignore him and his law and instead do “whatever seem[s] right in their own eyes.” This moral apathy leaves God’s people living in chaos.

JESUS AS TRUE NORTH

God chooses leaders to free his people. Each one foreshadows the ultimate leader, Savior, and Redeemer—Jesus. Like the judges, Jesus will free his people from the bonds of oppressive forces. However, Jesus will not be fighting merely against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against the pervasive powers of sin and death. God raises up the judges to free his people and restore their relationship with him. The judges’ work points to Jesus by giving the people a glimpse of what Jesus will accomplish as the ultimate Redeemer and Savior of all.

WHERE IN THE WORLD ARE WE?

NEXT STOP

THE LORD SPEAKS TO SAMUEL

DEBORAH BECOMES ISRAEL’S JUDGE

THE LORD RAISES UP JUDGES

READING 13

PREVIOUS STOP

POSSESSING THE PROMISED LAND

HANNAH’S PRAYER FOR A SON

HANNAH’S PRAYER FOR A SON

THE LORD SPEAKS TO SAMUEL

Samuel is born as the answer to his mother’s prayer. In gratitude, Hannah fulfills her vow and dedicates her son to God. She brings him to the Tabernacle in Shiloh to be trained for God’s work under the guidance of Eli, the high priest. God will use Samuel to display his active presence with his people, a rare thing in those days. God has a role for him to play in his big story. He calls Samuel as a young boy to lead his people and make them a nation that will be a blessing to others.

READ:

1SAM 3:1–4:11

16 OF 54

1SAM 3:1–4:11

57 OF 215

1SAM 3:1–4:1

103 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

“The lamp of God” refers to the oil lamp that signified God’s presence in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle. Every evening at sunset, the Levites filled the lamp’s seven branches with the best and purest olive oil so the flame would burn cleanly without producing smoke. The lamp contained only enough olive oil to burn until dawn. Therefore, God called to Samuel sometime before dawn, while the lamp was still giving off light.

EXPLORATION POINT

Hearing a voice calling in the middle of the night can be startling. Anyone who has heard their name called out while they are sleeping knows how unsettling it is. Samuel, who was twelve or thirteen, remained calm through the situation, not cowering in fear nor running to Eli in alarm. Instead, Samuel went to Eli, asking him if he had called. God still speaks to his people today, but usually in more subtle ways. He may communicate through wise counselors, friends, pastors, or even our dreams. Whatever his method, his peace reassures us that all will be well.

Remember, join the conversation about today’s reading with the World's Biggest Small Group at group.wayfm.com.

END OF READING 13

NEXT STOP

SAMSON AND DELILAH

SAMSON AND DELILAH

THE BIRTH OF SAMSON

READING 14

PREVIOUS STOP

THE LORD SPEAKS TO SAMUEL

THE LORD SPEAKS TO SAMUEL

SAMSON’S VENGEANCE ON THE PHILISTINES

SAMSON AND DELILAH

Samson is one of Israel’s great judges, helping save God’s people from their enemy, the Philistines. But Samson, like the other judges, is far from perfect. Samson has a personal vendetta against the Philistines. He wants vengeance for himself more than he wants liberation for his people. Nearly every motive Samson has is self-centered, and he makes foolish choices that cause his downfall. But God will not let the judge derail his big story. In spite of Samson’s selfishness, God uses him for a greater purpose, filling Samson with his Spirit to rescue his people so that they might be a blessing.

READ:

JUDG 16:4-31

17 OF 54

JUDG 16:4-31

58 OF 215

JUDG 16:1-31

106 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Samson was not merely attracted to the Philistine Delilah—he fell in love with her. But she was more loyal to her people than to her lover. She cleverly entrapped Samson, manipulating him to tell her the source of his strength. Delilah was also attracted to the fortune she would receive for revealing his secret. The payment of 1,100 pieces of silver was extraordinarily high, considering that ten pieces of silver was acceptable as a year’s wage (17:10).

EXPLORATION POINT

God is patient with people who misuse his gifts and fail to follow his will. God uses even eccentric, egotistical individuals like Samson. Samson’s last prayer to God was selfishly motivated—he wanted to avenge the loss of his eyes, not deliver Israel from the Philistines. God fulfilled Samson’s request, restoring his strength. In the end, Samson successfully ruled Israel for twenty years and did indeed begin subduing the Philistines. God loves us as we are. He is working in each of our lives, using our strengths and our flaws for his good purposes.

END OF READING 14

NEXT STOP

DAVID KILLS GOLIATH

SAUL BECOMES KING OF ISRAEL

THE PHILISTINES CAPTURE THE ARK

READING 15

PREVIOUS STOP

SAMSON AND DELILAH

SAMUEL ANOINTS DAVID AS KING

SAMUEL ANOINTS DAVID AS KING

DAVID KILLS GOLIATH

Toward the end of Samuel’s life, God instructs him to anoint a young boy, David, to be Israel’s new king. But while David’s older brothers are soldiers encamped along the battlefront against the Philistine army, David remains out in the fields caring for his father’s flocks of sheep. Through David’s experiences as a shepherd, God has prepared him to face a new threat. Just as God is present throughout the big story, his presence is a blessing in David’s life. Armed with God’s Spirit, David fearlessly goes head-to-head with the champion warrior of the Philistines—a giant named Goliath.

READ:

1SAM 17:1-58

18 OF 54

1SAM 17:1-58

61 OF 215

1SAM 17:1-58

111 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The stones David selected from the stream were not mere pebbles. They were round and smooth, very hard, and probably a little larger than a billiard ball. A really good slinger like David could make a stone fly at about 100 miles per hour. Even so, the stone that struck Goliath only stunned him, making him crash facedown on the ground. Goliath’s beheading by David was what killed him.

EXPLORATION POINT

As a boy, David trusted God’s power in facing the impossible. Others thought he was being a foolish child: David’s brother mocked him, accusing him of being proud and deceitful; and King Saul was skeptical of David’s ability to fight Goliath. But through David’s skill with a sling, God affirmed his power over evil and his love for his anointed one. Like the apostle Paul, David knew his power came from the presence of God in his life (Philippians 4:13). In the same way, we as Christians can live confidently and do great things with God in us.

END OF READING 15

NEXT STOP

SOLOMON ASKS FOR WISDOM

SAUL TRIES TO KILL DAVID

SAUL BECOMES JEALOUS OF DAVID

READING 16

PREVIOUS STOP

DAVID KILLS GOLIATH

DAVID’S INSTRUCTIONS TO SOLOMON

GIFTS FOR BUILDING THE TEMPLE

SOLOMON ASKS FOR WISDOM

Although the Israelites had rejected God in favor of a human king, God did not leave them to appoint a ruler on their own. God has been present throughout the big story, selecting kings for his people. Just as he first chose Saul, then David, and filled them with his Spirit to lead his people, he now chooses Solomon. Then he appears to Solomon with an offer. Solomon’s response shows great promise. Filled with God’s Spirit, Solomon rules Israel with wisdom and justice.

READ:

1KGS 3:1-28

19 OF 54

1KGS 3:1-28

76 OF 215

1KGS 3:1-28; 4:29-34

142 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Brothels were common in cities of the ancient Near East, so it makes sense that these prostitutes shared a house. The prostitutes may have been Israelites or perhaps Jebusites, the native people who lived in Jerusalem before David captured it. God’s law clearly forbade prostitution (Leviticus 19:29; Deuteronomy 23:18), but it still existed in Israel. Solomon was not judging their occupation; he was judging them as mothers.

EXPLORATION POINT

If someone offered to give you anything you asked for, what would it be? Solomon was about twenty years old when he became king, but he had some idea of how difficult and important his job was. His request was discerning and selfless. His desire for an understanding heart pleased God, who granted him wisdom and blessed him abundantly. Solomon came to realize that the core of wisdom is staying close to God and following his will.

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END OF READING 16

NEXT STOP

THE KINGDOMS OF ISRAEL AND JUDAH

TRUSTING IN THE LORD

SOLOMON’S PSALM

FLYOVER ROUTE ITINERARY

PREVIOUS STOP

SOLOMON ASKS FOR WISDOM

VISIT OF THE QUEEN OF SHEBA

VISIT OF THE QUEEN OF SHEBA

YEAR:

931 BC

CURRENT WORLD POWER:

Assyria, Babylon

STATUS OF GOD’S PEOPLE:

Divided Nation

THE KINGDOMS OF ISRAEL AND JUDAH

Although God wanted to be the only King for his people, he allowed them to crown a human king and establish a monarchy. God specifically chose Israel’s first three kings—Saul, David, and Solomon—who were then each anointed by a priest. These kings ruled over the twelve tribes of Israel, united as one nation, for 120 years. During Solomon’s reign the people experienced peace and prosperity. When God’s Temple was completed, God’s glorious presence filled the Temple, affirming to the people that God himself was with them.

After Solomon dies in 931 BC, his son Rehoboam becomes king over all Israel. But there is conflict brewing. Jeroboam, one of Solomon’s labor managers, leads ten tribes to rebel against the king and start a second kingdom. Now there are two nations: Israel is the northern kingdom, consisting of ten tribes; and Judah is the southern kingdom, consisting of two tribes.

WHERE ARE WE GOING?

The kingdoms of Israel and Judah run parallel with each other for two hundred years, until Israel is conquered by the Assyrian Empire in 722 BC. The kingdom of Judah continues on for about 150 years until the Babylonians destroy it in 586 BC. To keep these two histories clear, we’ll follow them separately.

First we will follow the kings and prophets of Israel. Nineteen kings reign over the course of two hundred years; then in 722 the kingdom falls because most of its kings “did what was evil in the LORD’s sight.” God continues to speak to his people through the prophets, but they do not listen. As a result, their lives decline morally and spiritually until their downfall.

Then we will backtrack two hundred years to follow the kings and prophets of Judah from 931 BC until the kingdom’s demise in 586 BC. Judah is ruled by nineteen kings (and one queen) over 345 years. Some of Judah’s kings fear God and closely follow God’s law. Others allow idolatry to creep into the people’s religious practices. Although the prophets preach about the consequences of disobeying God, their warnings are not often heeded. Judah’s sinfulness becomes too great, so God allows the Babylonians to invade the kingdom three times, taking captives and eventually destroying Jerusalem. Despite the kingdom’s destruction, God promises that a remnant—a small group of God’s people—will someday return to live in their land again.

JESUS AS TRUE NORTH

During the time of the two kingdoms, God’s representatives on earth are kings, priests, and prophets. These human leaders are expected to obey God and his laws. By being obedient, they can represent God accurately and faithfully to the people. Most prophets are faithful, bringing news of hope and promises of a savior. But only some of the priests and kings follow the ways of the Lord. Their human weaknesses, their desire for power, and their undisciplined lives get in the way. Because of this, their roles are only shadows of the One who will ultimately obey God perfectly. Jesus Christ will come and accomplish all that prophets, priests, and kings have been called to do, but his coming is still hundreds of years in the future.

WHERE IN THE WORLD ARE WE?

NEXT STOP

THE NORTHERN TRIBES REVOLT

THE NORTHERN TRIBES REVOLT

THE NORTHERN TRIBES REVOLT

READING 17

PREVIOUS STOP

THE KINGDOMS OF ISRAEL AND JUDAH

THE KINGDOMS OF ISRAEL AND JUDAH

THE KINGDOMS OF ISRAEL AND JUDAH

THE NORTHERN TRIBES REVOLT

Unfortunately, the splendor and greatness of King Solomon’s reign does not last. As he ages, Solomon becomes lax in his relationship with God, marrying foreign wives and allowing them to introduce idol worship to the kingdom. Once, God had promised Abraham that his descendants—now the kingdom of Israel—would be a blessing to all nations. Now, Solomon’s sin has led to political conflicts in the kingdom that seem to be swamping God’s promise. Far from having the global impact God had planned for them, the Israelites are an insignificant regional ethnic group heading for trouble.

READ:

1KGS 12:1-33

21 OF 54

1KGS 12:1-33

83 OF 215

1KGS 12:1-33

158 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The struggle between the northern and southern tribes was nothing new. During the time of the judges the people identified with and were loyal to their tribe, not their nation. Although the twelve tribes united under David and Solomon, jealousy and animosity continued to simmer, especially between the two largest tribes—Ephraim in the north and Judah in the south. The northern tribes disliked that Jerusalem, the center of politics and religion, was located in Judah’s territory. The kingdom split in two: To the north was Israel, ten tribes led by Jeroboam; to the south was Judah, two tribes led by Rehoboam.

EXPLORATION POINT

Jeroboam intentionally set up new worship centers to secure his political power and position, but he was ignoring what God wanted for his people. The new centers were convenient for worship, but they led the people to worship idols, which violated God’s first commandment. Gradually the people forgot all about the true God and drifted into worshiping the local deity, Baal. Convenience won out over what was true and right. We too must carefully choose what is right and true over what is current, popular, or most convenient.

END OF READING 17

NEXT STOP

KING AHAB AND THE PROPHET ELIJAH

KING AHAB AND THE PROPHET ELIJAH

KING AHAB AND THE PROPHET ELIJAH

READING 18

PREVIOUS STOP

THE NORTHERN TRIBES REVOLT

THE NORTHERN TRIBES REVOLT

THE NORTHERN TRIBES REVOLT

KING AHAB AND THE PROPHET ELIJAH

After Israel splits into two kingdoms, God’s people continue to pursue life apart from God. King Jeroboam lures the people into worshiping local idols rather than the one true God. Meanwhile, God reminds his people of the big story—of who he is and what he has done for them—through his prophets. From time to time, they repent and turn back to God, but their kings continually go back to their pagan practices. Eventually, a particularly wicked king, Ahab, rises to power over Israel. But God never deserts his chosen people. He speaks to them through the words of his prophet Elijah.

READ:

1KGS 16:29–17:24

22 OF 54

1KGS 16:29–17:24

84 OF 215

1KGS 16:29–17:24

159 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Jezebel was a Phoenician princess and a high priestess of the cult of Baal. Her father Ethbaal, king of Sidon, was high priest of the cult of Ashtoreth, or Asherah. When Jezebel married Ahab, she converted him and much of the kingdom of Israel to the worship of Baal and Asherah. She supported 450 prophets of Baal and 400 prophets of Asherah. Jezebel assumed a major political and religious role as queen of Israel and had a great influence on Ahab’s decisions.

EXPLORATION POINT

Elijah, whose name means “my God is Yahweh,” prophesied for the God of Israel. He courageously declared his faith before King Ahab, who had made Baal worship the kingdom’s official religion. Elijah was in the minority. Other prophets had remained true to the Lord, but he was not aware of them and felt abandoned. Sometimes we may feel alone in our faith, too. Family or friends may have lost touch with God and drifted into complacency or other beliefs. Reading the story of Elijah encourages us with the reminder that God does not abandon his people.

END OF READING 18

NEXT STOP

JONAH RUNS FROM THE LORD

THE CONTEST ON MOUNT CARMEL

THE CONTEST ON MOUNT CARMEL

READING 19

PREVIOUS STOP

KING AHAB AND THE PROPHET ELIJAH

JEROBOAM II RULES IN ISRAEL

JEROBOAM II RULES IN ISRAEL

JONAH RUNS FROM THE LORD

Long ago God promised Abraham that his descendants would be a blessing to all nations. Jonah was one of God’s prophets who was sent to a foreign nation with a clear warning: Change your sinful ways or God will punish you. Throughout the big story, God has love and compassion for all people of every nation. He gives fair warning to everyone that their actions will be judged. God summons Jonah to warn the Assyrians of Nineveh to repent or face impending doom.

READ:

JON 1:1–2:10

23 OF 54

JON 1:1–2:10

89 OF 215

JON 1:1–2:10

168 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The Hebrew phrase used here for “great fish” could refer to any large animal that lives primarily underwater. The exact species of animal or fish referred to is unknown. Perhaps it was a unique fish God made for just this purpose, or perhaps it was a type of shark or whale. The great white shark, the whale, and the whale shark all have throats large enough to swallow a human.

EXPLORATION POINT

Jonah was startled and angry to think that God could care for or love Israel’s worst enemy, Assyria. Jonah was sure that it wasn’t fair that the bloodthirsty Assyrians would get a chance at God’s salvation. God’s radical forgiveness did not fit Jonah’s paradigm of justice. But this was a glimpse of what God had in mind for the world: a salvation that came from his grace alone, available to all—rich and poor, righteous and wicked.

Remember, join the conversation about today’s reading with the World's Biggest Small Group at group.wayfm.com.

END OF READING 19

NEXT STOP

DEATH OF A NATION

HOSEA’S WIFE AND CHILDREN

JONAH GOES TO NINEVEH

READING 20

PREVIOUS STOP

JONAH RUNS FROM THE LORD

THE VISIONS OF AMOS

FIVE KINGS OF ISRAEL

DEATH OF A NATION

God has been patient with Israel for two hundred years. He has warned and threatened and loved his people and their kings. God’s plan in the big story was to live among his people, but they have ignored and resisted and avoided him. Numerous prophets warned the leaders that destruction was coming if they did not seek God, shun idolatry, and show mercy. But eventually the prophets’ voices cease. God abandons the kingdom of Israel to face the ruthless Assyrians alone. Pounded by Assyria, the people of Israel finally prove to be too weak to ward off their invaders.

READ:

2KGS 17:1-23

24 OF 54

2KGS 17:1-23

92 OF 215

2KGS 17:1-41

176 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Israel, the northern kingdom, consisted of ten tribes: Ephraim, Naphtali, East and West Manasseh, Asher, Zebulun, Issachar, Reuben, Gad, and Dan. When the kingdom of Israel was conquered, it disappeared. Afterward, it was often referred to as the ten lost tribes of Israel. Not only did the Assyrians take the people captive and move them north to their nation, but they also transplanted other captive peoples into the territory of Israel. Mixing up nationalities like this prevented unity and possible uprisings against the conquerors.

EXPLORATION POINT

God had clearly stated the terms of his covenant to his people: Obedience would bring blessings and joy; disobedience would bring anguish and punishment. God used judges, kings, and prophets to remind the people to follow him and obey the terms of the covenant, but the people didn’t listen or follow. They chose to join the Canaanites in worshiping idols. Being flexible and adjusting to those around us can be good, but we need to choose wisely and remain committed to obeying God above all.

END OF READING 20

NEXT STOP

JOASH REPAIRS THE TEMPLE

REHOBOAM RULES IN JUDAH

REHOBOAM RULES IN JUDAH

READING 21

PREVIOUS STOP

DEATH OF A NATION

QUEEN ATHALIAH RULES IN JUDAH

QUEEN ATHALIAH RULES IN JUDAH

JOASH REPAIRS THE TEMPLE

After a series of good and bad kings ruled Judah, Joash, a seven-year-old boy, ascends to the throne. He has survived the killing spree of his wicked grandmother, Athaliah, and is the only child from David’s line to survive. His reign casts a ray of hope into the dismal history of Judah. God’s promise to King David was almost snuffed out, but God’s big story had never been in doubt—God would win. David’s dynasty is secure in the hands of this seven-year-old and his protector, Jehoiada, the high priest of God Almighty.

READ:

2CHR 24:1-27

25 OF 54

2CHR 24:1-27

99 OF 215

2CHR 24:1-27

183 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The Temple was 140 years old at the time Joash became king. It had been abused and neglected by the people of Judah during the many years they worshiped Baal and Asherah, so it was in dire need of cleaning and restoration. Joash’s first attempt to collect taxes for Temple maintenance didn’t work, so he instituted a voluntary gift program to provide the funds for restoring the Temple to its original splendor.

EXPLORATION POINT

Joash was a God-fearing king until the death of his great adviser, Jehoiada. When his advisers changed, his focus veered away from God. The people forgot Joash’s religious reforms and restored idol worship. The influence of his advisers made all the difference in Joash’s rule. We need to surround ourselves with godly advisers and friends. Those who influence our thoughts and actions can lead us either away from God or toward him.

END OF READING 21

NEXT STOP

A BRANCH FROM DAVID’S LINE

MOURNING OVER THE LOCUST PLAGUE

MOURNING OVER THE LOCUST PLAGUE

READING 22

PREVIOUS STOP

JOASH REPAIRS THE TEMPLE

HOPE IN THE MESSIAH

HOPE IN THE MESSIAH

A BRANCH FROM DAVID’S LINE

God will no longer tolerate the continual disobedience of his chosen people. Because he loves his people, he will discipline them by sending them away from the land and his presence, but he will not leave them destitute. As he did with Abraham, Jacob, Moses, and David, God remains faithful to his chosen people even while they are being disciplined. God speaks through Isaiah to declare the coming destruction of Judah. But not everything he says is doom and gloom. He also provides visions of a delightful future time filled with peace, calm, and joy for all of God’s creation.

READ:

ISA 11:1-16

26 OF 54

ISA 11:1-16

104 OF 215

ISA 11:1-16

191 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The nation of Israel is compared to a forest that will be cut down but not destroyed. From a tree stump will come a shoot and a branch that will bring new life to David’s dynasty. Both the oak and the terebinth trees, the two most common trees in the region at that time, were symbols of stability and longevity. The oak tree grew up to 80 feet high and lived as long as 300 years! The terebinth tree was associated with God’s presence and was frequently used to mark a place where someone had encountered God.

EXPLORATION POINT

Isaiah’s words were sweet for people who were facing judgment and exile. His message brought visions of paradise, where everything would be peaceful and all Creation would live in harmony. Justice would prevail and fairness for all would be the norm. Some of this message was fulfilled with Christ’s birth and ministry, but this ideal time will arrive fully when Christ comes again to rule the earth and establish his Kingdom. Let us pray that he comes quickly to bring about his Kingdom of peace.

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END OF READING 22

NEXT STOP

THE FALL OF JERUSALEM

MISERY TURNED TO HOPE

GRIEF OVER SAMARIA AND JERUSALEM

READING 23

PREVIOUS STOP

A BRANCH FROM DAVID’S LINE

THE END OF JUDAH

THE END OF JUDAH

THE FALL OF JERUSALEM

Throughout his big story, God always wants to be close to his people. At many times throughout Israel’s history, individuals and even the entire nation were obedient to the Lord. But over the last four hundred years, the people of Judah and their leaders have forgotten the Lord and started worshiping other gods. God has sent prophets to plead with them to turn back to the Lord. He has sent foreign invaders who wage war on Judah, even taking the people into captivity, but those hints of coming judgment do not change anything. Now the nation of Judah is scattered and its capital city, Jerusalem, is destroyed.

READ:

JER 52:1-30

27 OF 54

JER 52:1-30

120 OF 215

JER 52:1-34

233 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The Babylonian siege made the residents of Jerusalem prisoners in their own city. The Babylonians captured and cut off all roads, and food and supplies ceased to arrive in the city. The enemy would normally have cut off all sources of water into the city as well, but King Hezekiah had previously secured the water supply from the Gihon Spring. The siege began on January 15, 588 BC, and ended July 18, 586 BC, two and a half years later, when the Babylonians’ battering rams broke down a section of the city wall.

EXPLORATION POINT

Time was up, and God’s patience had run out. He had to restore justice. The people suffered the consequences of disobedience exactly as God had told Moses and recorded in the Book of Instructions. But God’s covenant with David remained intact. David’s kingdom would not end; a remnant would endure. The nation was destroyed, but God gave his people hope through the words of his prophets. God’s people and their nation would be restored and would flourish at a later time.

END OF READING 23

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A VALLEY OF DRY BONES

SORROW IN JERUSALEM

SORROW IN JERUSALEM

READING 24

PREVIOUS STOP

THE FALL OF JERUSALEM

EDOM’S JUDGMENT ANNOUNCED

EZEKIEL AS ISRAEL’S WATCHMAN

A VALLEY OF DRY BONES

God’s plan was to love and be in relationship with his people. He had promised Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that he would bless them and their descendants. He had promised David that his kingdom would never end. But the kingdom of Judah has been devastated. Only a small group remains faithful while in exile. The big story appears to be in jeopardy. But it is not over. Ezekiel gives hope to the Jewish exiles in Babylon through a strange vision of bones. This vision reveals a promising future, the next chapter in the big story: a new life, a new people, and a new unified nation.

READ:

EZEK 37:1-14

28 OF 54

EZEK 37:1-14

124 OF 215

EZEK 37:1-14

239 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Dry bones and skeletons are usually considered creepy. Stories of skeletons never seem to end well. This one is different because God is in control of it all. Ezekiel’s vision describes a two-stage resurrection. First, flesh appears and covers the dried-out bones. But bones and flesh are still lacking: They need the breath, or Spirit, of the Lord in them to be fully restored. By the end of the story, the dried-out bones have come to life!

EXPLORATION POINT

God was about to do something amazing. He was going to restore the dead, dried-up, disillusioned group of exiles into a lively, Spirit-filled people. Just as he had saved his chosen people from the “death” of slavery in Egypt and had given them a new identity and life in the Promised Land, so now he would restore the exiles to a new life in their homeland. He would renew their strength and revive their spirits. God promises that renewal and restoration will come after exodus or exile. It did for God’s chosen people; it will for us too.

END OF READING 24

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DANIEL IN THE LIONS’ DEN

DANIEL IN THE LIONS’ DEN

THE LORD’S GLORY RETURNS

READING 25

PREVIOUS STOP

A VALLEY OF DRY BONES

A VALLEY OF DRY BONES

THE WRITING ON THE WALL

DANIEL IN THE LIONS’ DEN

Throughout the big story, God has selected individuals to be examples for his people: Abraham, Moses, Joshua, David, and now Daniel. These individuals were heroes of the faith who, though still hindered by human flaws, were near to God and obedient to his calling. Daniel, a teenage prince of Judah, was taken into captivity to the city of Babylon where he became a great leader. Many years passed. Daniel is now an old man. The Persian Empire has swallowed the Babylonian Empire, and a new ruler, Darius, is in control of the province of Babylon.

READ:

DAN 6:1-28

29 OF 54

DAN 6:1-28

125 OF 215

DAN 6:1-28

243 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

In biblical times, lions inhabited Asia Minor, Syria, Mesopotamia, and Persia. Asian lions differed from their African counterparts in that they were smaller and had thicker coats and thinner manes. Lions were often trophies of kings and nobles, who kept them in captivity or used them in executions of political prisoners. Lions became extinct in the Middle East hundreds of years ago, but they could still be found in the area around the Euphrates River until the 1800s AD.

EXPLORATION POINT

What happened to Daniel was simple: He was set up. The officials were jealous of this Jewish immigrant who had risen to a high government position, and they were out for revenge. Daniel had climbed the royal ranks, adjusting to the changes of three administrations, but he had never altered his stance with God. Daniel remained firm in his faith, and God always protected him. Our lives move fast. Circumstances, positions, and power all will change, but God never changes. He is the one we need to hold on to, to keep us focused when uncertainty swirls around us.

Remember, join the conversation about today’s reading with the World's Biggest Small Group at group.wayfm.com.

END OF READING 25

NEXT STOP

WAITING FOR RESTORATION

WAITING FOR RESTORATION

THE TIME OF THE END

FLYOVER ROUTE ITINERARY

PREVIOUS STOP

DANIEL IN THE LIONS’ DEN

DANIEL IN THE LIONS’ DEN

THE TIME OF THE END

YEAR:

539 BC

CURRENT WORLD POWER:

Babylon, Persia

STATUS OF GOD’S PEOPLE:

Exiled Subjects

WAITING FOR RESTORATION

When Israel and Judah were conquered by foreign empires, the people were exiled and scattered. Assyria obliterated Israel, and Babylon devastated Judah. Years of war and invasions have left the “land flowing with milk and honey” ravaged, scorched, and largely deserted. Jerusalem is now a pile of burned-out buildings and broken-down walls. God’s holy Temple has been stripped of its beauty, ransacked of its treasures, torn down, and torched. Clusters of survivors live as best they can amid the devastation, the destroyed vineyards, and the overgrown pastureland.

God has remained in control even as foreign empires destroyed the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. He proves his power by working miracles not just in Israel, but also in Babylon. He reveals his presence no longer in the Temple but by speaking through the prophets. He wants the people to know that he is still with them, even though they are far from their homeland. Through his prophets, God promises to protect, preserve, and bless his people even while they are in captivity.

WHERE ARE WE GOING?

The Babylonian Empire is eventually overtaken by the Persians. Although they still exercise control over the entire region, the Persian kings tolerate many religions and desire to return people to their own homelands. In God’s timing, a Persian king named Cyrus will rise to power, release the Jews from captivity, and encourage them to return to Judah to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem.

JESUS AS TRUE NORTH

God’s prophets provide words of hope to the people—hints that a savior is coming. A king of David’s line will take the throne again. More than any other prophet, Isaiah promises the people that God will rescue Israel, but other prophets also describe a future hope. Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Micah, Zechariah, and Malachi promise a future for the exiles. The people are uncertain about who the prophesied savior-king will be and when he will come, but the prophets remind them that it is God in whom their hope rests. So they continue to wait for him—the promised one, Jesus.

WHERE IN THE WORLD ARE WE?

NEXT STOP

THE PEOPLE BEGIN TO REBUILD THE TEMPLE

CYRUS ALLOWS THE EXILES TO RETURN

CYRUS ALLOWS THE EXILES TO RETURN

READING 26

PREVIOUS STOP

WAITING FOR RESTORATION

CYRUS ALLOWS THE EXILES TO RETURN

CYRUS ALLOWS THE EXILES TO RETURN

THE PEOPLE BEGIN TO REBUILD THE TEMPLE

The Jewish exiles who return to Judah go home to towns and villages scattered throughout the region. For some this means returning to Jerusalem, but many people only gather in the city occasionally for worship. They first rebuild the altar in the Temple courtyard to present sacrifices to God. Then they plan to start reconstructing the Temple. God was never far from his people even though they were far away from their land. His promise through the prophets to return the people to the land with new hope and new hearts is now being fulfilled.

READ:

EZRA 3:1-13

31 OF 54

EZRA 3:1-13

128 OF 215

EZRA 3:1-13

247 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The exiles feared and shunned the “local residents,” the foreigners who were resettled in Israel (the northern kingdom) by the Assyrian king Esarhaddon after he conquered Israel in 722 BC. Some of these transplants moved south into Judah and Jerusalem during the seventy years that the Jews were in captivity. These foreign residents knew about God but only worshiped him along with their pagan deities. A pagan altar may have been located on the sacred spot of the original altar. If the people of Judah had to destroy it before rebuilding God’s altar, they might encounter retaliation.

EXPLORATION POINT

God graciously gave his people another opportunity to be his holy nation by bringing them back from captivity in Babylon. Once settled, the people rightly focused on God and on observing the law of Moses. Building an altar and then the Temple foundation testified to the fact that they had listened to the prophets during the Exile and had learned from the experiences of their ancestors. They were determined not to waste this opportunity to be restored.

END OF READING 26

NEXT STOP

BETWEEN THE TESTAMENTS: WAITING FOR THE MESSIAH

A CALL TO REBUILD THE TEMPLE

A CALL TO REBUILD THE TEMPLE

FLYOVER ROUTE ITINERARY

PREVIOUS STOP

THE PEOPLE BEGIN TO REBUILD THE TEMPLE

THE LORD’S LOVE AND UNWORTHY SACRIFICES

THE COMING DAY OF JUDGMENT

YEAR:

6 BC

CURRENT WORLD POWER:

Rome

STATUS OF GOD’S PEOPLE:

Roman Subjects

BETWEEN THE TESTAMENTS: WAITING FOR THE MESSIAH

Since the beginning of time God has desired to have a relationship with his creation. He chose to share the joys of his created world with humans made in his likeness. He has been present with humans since he made them: He walked and talked with them in the Garden of Eden; appeared to them in dreams and visions; and revealed himself in clouds, a fiery pillar, and laws written in stone. He demonstrated his presence with them through the Tabernacle and the Ark of the Covenant. His Spirit worked through their leaders, judges, priests, prophets, and kings, who all represented him on earth. God’s presence and blessing continued through the Exile as he protected his people.

At the end of the Old Testament, God’s people have become a scattered people, living in Egypt, Judea, Syria, and Persia. In a world pervaded by Greek thought and culture, they preserve their own history and zealously fight for independence. For four hundred years, they hold faithfully to the messages of the prophets, the laws of Moses, and the rituals of the Temple. The Jews wait with great anticipation for God’s promise to come true, for the great king of David’s line to arrive.

WHERE ARE WE GOING?

The whole Old Testament has prepared us for this moment. We are reaching a major turning point in the history of the world. Soon God will come to earth as a man. He will be Immanuel, which means “God with us.” For thousands of years, the Tabernacle, the Temple, the priesthood, the prophets, and the kings all foreshadowed God’s ultimate goal. Now he will physically be with his people. Jesus Christ will be born as a human.

But even as God’s plans culminate in Jesus, many of the Jews who have been waiting for this very moment will completely disregard him as the king they have yearned for. They will miss the King of kings and Lord of lords who walks and talks with them during everyday tasks: working in the fields, raising families, baking bread, drawing water. Some will have their eyes opened and will believe that Jesus is the promised Messiah. Others will keep looking elsewhere, hoping for a powerful ruler who will liberate their people through military force.

JESUS AS TRUE NORTH

Very soon now, Jesus will come. After the end of the Old Testament era the Jewish people faced tumultuous times, being conquered and oppressed first by the Greeks and then by the Romans. They endured persecution and even rebelled against their oppressors for a time, but they still awaited the Messiah—the one God promised who would free them from tyranny and fulfill the righteous hopes of the people. Jesus will be that Messiah. But he will not be the warrior-king they’re expecting, but rather a humble infant. Nonetheless, he will change the world. He will show the world who God is—nothing will ever be the same.

WHERE IN THE WORLD ARE WE?

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NEXT STOP

TWO BIRTHS FORETOLD

TWO BIRTHS FORETOLD

TWO BIRTHS FORETOLD

READING 27

PREVIOUS STOP

BETWEEN THE TESTAMENTS: WAITING FOR THE MESSIAH

BETWEEN THE TESTAMENTS: WAITING FOR THE MESSIAH

BETWEEN THE TESTAMENTS: WAITING FOR THE MESSIAH

TWO BIRTHS FORETOLD

Thousands of years of waiting are about to end. In the big story, God promised to restore his relationship with his people. He continued to remind his people of his promise over and over again. Now it is about to be fulfilled in a matter of months. At first only a few individuals know what is coming. The angel Gabriel first brings great news to Elizabeth and Zechariah—they will have a son whose name will be John. Gabriel then visits Mary, declaring that she also will have a son, who will be called the Son of the Most High.

READ:

LUKE 1:5-56

33 OF 54

LUKE 1:5-56

140 OF 215

LUKE 1:5-56

267 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Although Mary was probably in her early teens, she revealed her maturity and faith in God through her song of praise. This psalm came to be known as the Magnificat, from the first word in the Latin translation of this passage. Some English translations render the opening line as “My soul magnifies the Lord,” reflecting this Latin root. This poem expresses Mary’s great joy at being chosen as the mother of the Messiah and celebrates God’s faithfulness and mercy to his people.

EXPLORATION POINT

Jesus’ conception was miraculous. We know no details of how this occurred, only that the power of the Most High came upon Mary and she became pregnant, carrying Jesus in her womb in an otherwise normal pregnancy. The Virgin Birth is a critical belief of the Christian faith. We believe that Jesus is completely human and yet fully God. Mary conceived and gave birth to the Son of God so that God could truly become one of us and restore his relationship with his people. The virgin birth remains a mystery in some ways, but there is no mystery about its importance.

END OF READING 27

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THE BIRTH OF JESUS

JOSEPH’S DREAM

JOSEPH’S DREAM

READING 28

PREVIOUS STOP

TWO BIRTHS FORETOLD

JOSEPH’S DREAM

THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

THE BIRTH OF JESUS

Every event so far in the big story has been leading up to the greatest event in history. The moment that millions waited for is here. These people lived their entire lives waiting for God’s promise to come true, but they died still hoping that the Promised One would come. Now the time is right for the birth of a King who will save the world. Yet there are no trumpets, no fanfares, no feasts to mark the occasion. The King of kings is born in an ordinary place when everyone is too busy to notice. Only some shepherds know that something special has occurred.

READ:

LUKE 2:1-52

34 OF 54

LUKE 2:1-52

142 OF 215

LUKE 2:1-52

270 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Natural and man-made caves are common in the Holy Land because of the deposits of limestone, chalk, and sandstone found in the hills of the region. These minerals are relatively soft, making it easy to enlarge existing caves and carve out new ones. Throughout biblical history, caves were used as living quarters for humans and animals, places of refuge during war, or final resting places for the dead. It is possible that the stable used for shelter for Mary, Joseph, and Jesus was a cave located behind the inn, used to shelter animals.

EXPLORATION POINT

Determined to restore his relationship with his creation and show his love for his people, God sent his Son to earth. Jesus Christ was the King of kings, but he did not enter on a charging white stallion or in a chariot preceded by a hundred foot soldiers. He came as a lowly, dependent infant. From these humble beginnings he grew to become part of the everyday world, building a relationship with others on love, not fear; on fellowship, not power.

END OF READING 28

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THE BAPTISM OF JESUS

VISITORS FROM THE EAST

VISITORS FROM THE EAST

READING 29

PREVIOUS STOP

THE BIRTH OF JESUS

JOHN THE BAPTIST PREPARES THE WAY

JOHN THE BAPTIST PREPARES THE WAY

THE BAPTISM OF JESUS

In the big story, God spoke through the prophets, sometimes revealing details about the coming King of the Jews. In the birth of Jesus, many of those prophecies were fulfilled. Now, after living in a small town and working at Joseph’s trade for about thirty years, the King steps out into the world to begin the work he has been sent from God to do. Jesus is ready to preach, teach, heal, and declare the good news—God is present with his people!

READ:

MATT 3:13-17

35 OF 54

MATT 3:13-17

146 OF 215

MATT 3:1-17

274 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

At Jesus’ baptism all three persons of the Trinity were actively present: the Father (the voice from heaven), the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit (the descending dove). The Christian doctrine of the Trinity declares that God is one essence but at the same time is three persons. This great mystery of the faith is worth thinking about deeply, even if we can’t fully understand it. The eternal unity of God in loving relationship with himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is a beautiful image to ponder.

EXPLORATION POINT

In his usual humble way, Jesus sought the appropriate sanction before beginning his ministry. He went to John the Baptist, a well-known preacher of that time, to be baptized. Jesus’ approval for ministry came not from John but from God the Father and the Holy Spirit. He was now ready and ordained for his life’s calling to minister God’s love to his people, and to tell them that God’s promise to restore his Kingdom was being fulfilled.

END OF READING 29

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THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT

THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS

THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS

READING 30

PREVIOUS STOP

THE BAPTISM OF JESUS

JESUS HEALS A PARALYZED MAN

JESUS HEALS A PARALYZED MAN

THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT

The big story culminates in the life of Jesus. The Messiah the Jews have been waiting for walks and talks among the common people. He chooses disciples, faces the devil in the wilderness, and performs miracles. And when he preaches, people pour out of their towns and come to hear him. Jesus’ preaching is full of God’s wisdom. Now he presents his most famous sermon with images of common objects and everyday events. Large crowds gather from all over the region to experience Jesus’ healing touch and to hear him speak.

READ:

MATT 5:1-26

36 OF 54

MATT 5:1-26, 38-48

153 OF 215

MATT 5:1-48

281 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The nine opening statements that begin with “God blesses” are called the Beatitudes. The word “beatitude” is taken from the Latin word beatus, meaning “blessed” or “fortunate.” The rhetorical device of giving a blessing as encouragement was common in Greek and Jewish literature of the first century. Although the sermon’s structure would have been familiar to the disciples, its message challenged their long-standing attitudes and values.

EXPLORATION POINT

Jesus’ sermon advocates new values for his followers, and his words of two thousand years ago are as relevant today as they were then. Although his standards for ethical and moral living are very high, we are not expected to achieve them on our own. When we are filled with God’s powerful Spirit, we will be able to cultivate these Christ-like characteristics and further God’s Kingdom.

Remember, join the conversation about today’s reading with the World's Biggest Small Group at group.wayfm.com.

END OF READING 30

NEXT STOP

JESUS FEEDS FIVE THOUSAND

JESUS CALMS THE STORM

TEACHING ABOUT PRAYER AND FASTING

READING 31

PREVIOUS STOP

THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT

JESUS HEALS A DEMON-POSSESSED MAN

JESUS HEALS IN RESPONSE TO FAITH

JESUS FEEDS FIVE THOUSAND

In the big story, God always fulfills his promises to his people. He sent his Son, Jesus, to be with his people, not only to love them and save them but also to teach them more about the Father and his Kingdom. Crowds follow Jesus to hear his words of hope or see his hands heal. They gather in the marketplaces and follow Jesus to remote regions. Excitement fills the air wherever Jesus travels as the crowds expect to witness wonders in his words or actions.

READ:

JOHN 6:1-14

37 OF 54

JOHN 6:1-14

156 OF 215

JOHN 6:1-59

288 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The loaves of bread were small flat barley loaves, similar to pita bread. They were inexpensive and most often eaten by the poor. The fish would have been dried and salted; two fish and five loaves would have made an average-sized meal for one person. The baskets for the leftovers were readily available because many Jews carried small baskets containing food for the day so they would not have to eat the food of the Gentiles. Late in the day, those baskets would have been empty.

EXPLORATION POINT

Jesus had compassion for the crowd. He wanted to take care of them before sending them home. Creating food out of thin air was possible but not his style. He worked with something that was available and made it more than enough. The disciples gathered what they could—five loaves, two fish—and Jesus turned it into enough supper for everyone. The miracle demonstrates that if we are willing to give even a little, Jesus can bless it and make it go a long way.

END OF READING 31

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JESUS HEALS A MAN BORN BLIND

JESUS WALKS ON WATER

JESUS WALKS ON WATER

READING 32

PREVIOUS STOP

JESUS FEEDS FIVE THOUSAND

JESUS VISITS MARTHA AND MARY

TEACHING ABOUT MONEY AND POSSESSIONS

JESUS HEALS A MAN BORN BLIND

God created people in his own image in order to have a relationship with them. One of the purposes of the big story is God’s revealing himself to his people, a little at a time. The greatest revelation is through Jesus. During his ministry, Jesus performs many miracles, including miraculous healings. The primary purpose of these miracles is to reveal that Jesus is the divine Son of God. Miracles aren’t magic; rather, they demonstrate the power of the Almighty God working through the Son. Jesus’ miraculous healing of a blind man combined a significant spiritual teaching with physical reality.

READ:

JOHN 9:1-41

38 OF 54

JOHN 9:1-41

162 OF 215

JOHN 9:1-41

296 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Roman writers and Jewish rabbis of this time period considered saliva an effective medicinal treatment. Jesus was more than capable of healing the man’s blindness without the saliva-and-mud mixture, but he incorporated the use of the simple materials on hand. One possible explanation for this is that Jesus used dirt to heal this man as a reminder that God originally created humans from the dust. In the end the man’s spiritual sight increased as his physical sight was restored.

EXPLORATION POINT

We cannot assume that a handicap or illness is punishment from God. This belief was common in Jesus’ day and has persisted to some extent in modern times. The complaint “What did I do to deserve this?” is similar to the question the disciples asked in verse 2. Sometimes innocent people suffer because we live in a sinful world. If God relieved his followers of all suffering, some would become Christians just for the guarantee of comfort, convenience, and opportunity, not out of love for and obedience to God. Jesus provides us with a new perspective from which to view our difficulties.

END OF READING 32

NEXT STOP

JESUS, THE WAY TO THE FATHER

THE PARABLES OF THE LOST SHEEP, LOST COIN, AND LOST SON

THE GOOD SHEPHERD AND HIS SHEEP

READING 33

PREVIOUS STOP

JESUS HEALS A MAN BORN BLIND

JESUS WASHES HIS DISCIPLES’ FEET

JESUS WASHES HIS DISCIPLES’ FEET

JESUS, THE WAY TO THE FATHER

God’s revelation of himself to humans through Jesus the Son continues in the big story. As his ministry progresses, Jesus reveals more and more about God through his actions and words. Jesus performs miracles to demonstrate God’s power, and he relates to people in ways that clearly display God’s love. His disciples, however, do not fully grasp the fact that Jesus is in fact God himself, the second person of the Trinity. In this farewell speech, Jesus clearly and emphatically states this astonishing fact: Anyone who has seen him has seen the Father.

READ:

JOHN 14:1-31

39 OF 54

JOHN 14:1-31

169 OF 215

JOHN 14:1-31

308 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Jesus’ statement that he was one with the Father (10:30) declared that he, a human, was also God. This would have rattled his Jewish audience, who out of respect never allowed themselves even to pronounce God’s name. To hear that Jesus, obviously a human being, claimed to be God would have been outrageous! Jesus’ claim is one big reason why some people have opposed Christianity throughout history. The incarnation of God is not feasible to them. The early Christian church wrestled with how to understand this mystery for over four hundred years.

EXPLORATION POINT

Since the beginning of time, God has been revealing himself to his people little by little. Throughout the Old Testament he showed himself to his people in visions, dreams, miracles, angelic sightings, and visible manifestations of his glory at the Tabernacle and the Temple. When the time was right, he came to earth as a human to openly reveal himself to his creation, to walk with and teach his people, and to build an intimate relationship with them. He had become what he had long ago promised through the prophets: Immanuel, “God with us.”

END OF READING 33

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THE DEATH OF JESUS

THE LAST SUPPER

THE LAST SUPPER

READING 34

PREVIOUS STOP

JESUS, THE WAY TO THE FATHER

PETER DENIES JESUS

PETER DENIES JESUS

THE DEATH OF JESUS

The climax of the big story has come. God’s plan to bring his people back to himself is about to unfold. After three years of ministry, Jesus knows he is about to give the world the greatest gift of all—himself. His body will be the sacrifice, once and forever, to save people from their sins. He has come to earth as a human in order to be among his people and restore a right relationship with them. His life and ministry has drawn them close and built their understanding and faith in God. But his death begins to reveal his ultimate purpose in becoming human.

READ:

MARK 15:1-47

40 OF 54

MARK 15:1-47

173 OF 215

MARK 15:1-47

313 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Crucifixion was a widespread Roman punishment for military and political offenders, particularly slaves, rebels, and insurrectionists. The sheer cruelty and public spectacle of crucifixion worked as a powerful social deterrent. Victims were flogged and then crucified naked, adding to the humiliation. It was seen as the most painful of possible deaths, involving intense suffering, exposure to weather and insects, and suffocation. The cross consisted of a vertical post in the ground, with a horizontal crossbeam often attached. A person was either affixed to the beams with ropes or, as with Jesus, nails between the bones of the wrists.

EXPLORATION POINT

We can hardly comprehend the agony Christ endured on the cross for us—rejection, mockery, harassment, torture, humiliation, isolation. In addition to the physical and mental anguish, Jesus also suffered the unimaginable pain of taking on our sin. We all have experienced suffering, but Christ’s suffering for the entire world was infinitely greater. He knows every aspect of suffering. He has endured it himself. Through his death, Jesus not only secured forgiveness for our sins, he also demonstrated decisively that he shares in our suffering—regardless of what it may be.

END OF READING 34

NEXT STOP

THE RESURRECTION

THE RESURRECTION

THE RESURRECTION

READING 35

PREVIOUS STOP

THE DEATH OF JESUS

THE DEATH OF JESUS

THE DEATH OF JESUS

THE RESURRECTION

Three agonizing days pass (Friday evening, all day Saturday, and early Sunday morning). For three days Satan thinks he is victorious. Jesus is dead and out of the way. Then the most spectacular event takes place—Jesus shows up alive! The big story is not over. God’s plan ends in victory, not death. Jesus has conquered the powers of death and hell, not just for himself but for everyone! The barrier between God and his people has been shattered; sin is defeated!

READ:

LUKE 24:1-12

41 OF 54

LUKE 24:1-12

174 OF 215

LUKE 24:1-12

314 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The four Gospel writers concur that at least one figure appeared in or near Jesus’ tomb. Matthew mentions an angel (Matthew 28:2); Mark mentions a young man (Mark 16:5); Luke describes two men in dazzling robes, whereas John refers to them as angels (Luke 24:4; John 20:12). Angels sometimes appeared on earth as male figures in white robes, but the Bible never mentions wings or halos, despite popular modern depictions. One common responsibility of angels was to bring good news.

EXPLORATION POINT

Shortly after Adam and Eve sinned, God graciously promised that he would send someone to crush Satan (Genesis 3:15). That promise was fulfilled in Christ’s resurrection. Satan “struck” Jesus with suffering and a torturous death. But the true victory was God’s—Jesus was alive! He had conquered death, the powers of hell, and Satan himself. God’s plan worked, and he freely shares the victory with all of us.

We’re glad that you’ve joined the World’s Biggest Small Group. Want to engage more with WAY-FM? Here are a few ways:

1. Sign up to receive the WAYMore eNewsletter here. bit.ly/WAY-Mail.

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3. Visit us at WAYFM.com.

4. And remember, a lot of people are discussing these daily readings at group.wayfm.com. (While you’re there, make sure you are signed up to win the trip for 2 to visit the Holy Land, too.)

END OF READING 35

NEXT STOP

THE ASCENSION OF JESUS

JESUS APPEARS TO SEVEN DISCIPLES

JESUS APPEARS TO OTHERS

READING 36

PREVIOUS STOP

THE RESURRECTION

JESUS APPEARS TO SEVEN DISCIPLES

JESUS APPEARS TO SEVEN DISCIPLES

THE ASCENSION OF JESUS

After the resurrection, Jesus continues his ministry for another forty days, appearing to his disciples and clarifying all that has happened. Jesus’ time on earth is about to end, but the big story continues. Jesus sends the disciples to proclaim the Good News to the ends of the world. Jesus is returning to the Father and the Holy Spirit will come to be with his disciples. But the disciples do not want to lose him. They don’t realize that the indwelling Holy Spirit is far more powerful than they can imagine.

READ:

ACTS 1:1-11

42 OF 54

ACTS 1:1-11

176 OF 215

ACTS 1:1-26

317 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Throughout Israel’s history, clouds often indicated the presence of God. A pillar of cloud led the Hebrews out of Egypt and through the wilderness. A cloud appeared on Mount Sinai when God gave Moses the law; it filled the Tabernacle and, later, the Temple. A bright cloud appeared at Jesus’ transfiguration, and God spoke from within it. At Jesus’ ascension the location (a high mountain), the upward movement, and the cloud all indicated that Jesus was ascending into God’s presence in heaven, where he would sit at his right hand.

EXPLORATION POINT

Jesus’ ascension into heaven concluded his time on earth. By restoring God’s relationship with his creation, he had accomplished all that the Father had sent him to do; now it was time for him to return to the Father and sit in a position of honor at his right side in heaven. In no way was Jesus abandoning his followers; the Holy Spirit would come to give them the power and ability to establish the church and spread the Good News throughout the world. The Spirit continues to be present with us today.

END OF READING 36

NEXT STOP

THE HOLY SPIRIT COMES

THE HOLY SPIRIT COMES

THE HOLY SPIRIT COMES

READING 37

PREVIOUS STOP

THE ASCENSION OF JESUS

THE ASCENSION OF JESUS

THE ASCENSION OF JESUS

THE HOLY SPIRIT COMES

After Jesus ascends into heaven, his disciples gather in a room in Jerusalem. Not knowing what to expect, they follow Jesus’ last instructions and wait. They are about to experience another high point of the big story. God came in human form to live among humans. Now he sends his Spirit to remain with us forever. The Spirit’s presence will be a comfort and a strength to every believer throughout the world until Christ comes again.

READ:

ACTS 2:1-47

43 OF 54

ACTS 2:1-47

177 OF 215

ACTS 2:1-47

318 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Pentecost was an annual Jewish festival that was established during the time of Moses. Originally it was an agricultural celebration called the Festival of Harvest, falling on the fiftieth day after Passover. During the Hellenistic period (300 BC–AD 300), the Jews dropped the agricultural association of Pentecost and viewed it instead as a day to give thanks for the law of Moses (the Torah). After the coming of the Holy Spirit on this day, Christians designated it as the start of the church. Both Jews and Christians continue to celebrate Pentecost today.

EXPLORATION POINT

Jesus came to earth to restore God’s relationship with his people. Adam and Eve had destroyed their relationship with God in the Garden; subsequently, everyone continued to reject God through sinful living. But no one and nothing can ever stop God from fulfilling his plan for the human race. By sending the Holy Spirit to fill believers, God made it possible for us to have fellowship with him until Christ comes again. Living in the Spirit is a precious gift that enables us to be in close relationship with the King of kings and Lord of lords.

END OF READING 37

NEXT STOP

THE CHURCH BEGINS

THE CHURCH BEGINS

THE CHURCH BEGINS

FLYOVER ROUTE ITINERARY

PREVIOUS STOP

THE HOLY SPIRIT COMES

THE HOLY SPIRIT COMES

THE HOLY SPIRIT COMES

YEAR:

AD 30

CURRENT WORLD POWER:

Rome

STATUS OF GOD’S PEOPLE:

Free in Christ

THE CHURCH BEGINS

God sent his Son to restore his relationship with his people, which was lost long ago when Adam and Eve disobeyed his command. He came to save the world and to fulfill the promise that all people would be blessed through Abraham’s descendants. Jesus was present in a human body, and he chose to minister primarily to people whom he could make direct, often physical, contact with. After his ministry and purpose for coming to earth came to an end, he victoriously returned to his Father in heaven.

Jesus’ disciples—witnesses to Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection—take up Jesus’ commission to “go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” They believe in Jesus; they have seen his miracles and heard his teachings. As soon as God’s Spirit fills them at Pentecost, they are prepared to go out and share the Good News with others.

WHERE ARE WE GOING?

God’s people, now equipped with God’s Spirit and called the church, preach boldly, heal the sick, and cast out demons in the name of Jesus. God is present with them, and membership in the new church explodes. Thousands believe. Both Jews and Gentiles believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, whose death and resurrection have saved them. The church will grow: first in Judea and Samaria, next into Asia Minor and Greece, and then into Italy, Spain, and other parts of Europe. But challenges will come as the church grows and the Good News spreads.

Wherever Christianity goes, it begins to uproot long-standing cultural traditions and practices. People fear and resist these changes. Many Jews hold firmly to the law and the old ways, and many Gentiles violently resist giving up their old lifestyles. But God’s church will prevail, and Christianity will be firmly established.

JESUS AS TRUE NORTH

The Spirit of God is the heart of the new church. Christ’s followers take on his name and are called Christians. Because of his work—coming to earth, preaching, healing, dying, and rising again—the apostles’ message is one of hope. Filled with the Holy Spirit, the apostles proclaim that Jesus is Lord and Caesar is not. When Saul begins killing Christians for corrupting Judaism, Jesus appears to him and sets him on a new course. Transformed, this man will explain to the world just how Jesus fulfilled God’s laws and set the world free from slavery to sin.

WHERE IN THE WORLD ARE WE?

Remember, join the conversation about today’s reading with the World's Biggest Small Group at group.wayfm.com.

NEXT STOP

PETER HEALS A CRIPPLED BEGGAR

PETER HEALS A CRIPPLED BEGGAR

PETER HEALS A CRIPPLED BEGGAR

READING 38

PREVIOUS STOP

THE CHURCH BEGINS

THE CHURCH BEGINS

THE CHURCH BEGINS

PETER HEALS A CRIPPLED BEGGAR

Throughout the big story God has revealed his power through miracles. He showed his control over nature through the ten plagues in Egypt and by dividing the waters of the Red Sea. He provided food and water for his people while they wandered in the wilderness. He displayed his power through the Old Testament prophets and, most clearly, in his Son Jesus. Now that same power is with the apostles. The apostle Peter, one of Jesus’ original twelve disciples, continues the tradition of performing miracles, displaying God’s power in Christ’s name. He then boldly preaches in the Temple about Jesus’ life and death.

READ:

ACTS 3:1-11

45 OF 54

ACTS 3:1-11

179 OF 215

ACTS 3:1-26

320 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

In Jewish society, imperfection of any kind made a person an outcast. In the Old Testament, God commanded his people to sacrifice only animals that “have no defect of any kind” (Leviticus 22:21). God also required priests to be without blemish. God’s law held other people to a high standard as well, but over the centuries Jewish culture had generalized these rules in a way that was harsh and unrealistic. A person had to be practically perfect to be part of the Jewish community. Peter’s healing was a great gift. It restored this man physically and socially.

EXPLORATION POINT

Peter and John had been empowered by the Holy Spirit and were energized to see God working through them to spread the Good News. God’s power flowed through them so that Peter even healed a lame man in the name of Jesus Christ. This is a wonderful example of how God can do more than we can ask or imagine. The beggar was merely hoping for a coin or two to help him survive one more day. The possibility of being whole again and walking out of the Temple didn’t even enter his mind. But it happened. God can, will, and does do what we perceive as impossible.

END OF READING 38

NEXT STOP

SAUL’S CONVERSION

PHILIP AND THE ETHIOPIAN EUNUCH

THE EARLY CHRISTIAN CHURCH

READING 39

PREVIOUS STOP

PETER HEALS A CRIPPLED BEGGAR

PHILIP AND THE ETHIOPIAN EUNUCH

PHILIP AND THE ETHIOPIAN EUNUCH

SAUL’S CONVERSION

In the big story, God revealed himself to Abraham and formed a great nation to be his holy, chosen people. When God sent his Son to earth, he sent him to his chosen people. Many of the Jews rejected Jesus, but others believed in him. After Jesus’ return to heaven, Saul, a devoted Jew, vehemently opposes anyone who believes in Jesus. But God transforms this strong and forceful leader. He turns Saul’s energies away from evil and toward spreading the Good News throughout the world, first to the Jews and then to the Gentiles.

READ:

ACTS 9:1-31

46 OF 54

ACTS 9:1-31

181 OF 215

ACTS 9:1-43

324 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Light of any kind illuminates and makes sight possible. The bright light that initially blinded Saul did exactly that in a spectacular fashion. This was no ordinary phenomenon. Unlike a bright ray of sun or a flash of lightning, it was supernaturally brilliant and seems to have been localized around only Saul. It was a unique heavenly light, created for this particular event. And while it temporarily blinded Saul physically, it allowed him to finally see Jesus for who he really was: the Son of God.

EXPLORATION POINT

Most conversions to Christianity are not as dramatic as Saul’s. A conversion can come as a sudden and radical change or as a gradual coming to faith over years. There is no single “right” way to come to know Christ. The method of receiving Christ may vary, but the result is the same: true faith in Christ as our Lord and Savior. This kind of faith will inevitably change our perspective on the world, and the indwelling Holy Spirit will change the way that we live as a result.

END OF READING 39

NEXT STOP

PETER VISITS CORNELIUS

PETER VISITS CORNELIUS

PETER VISITS CORNELIUS

READING 40

PREVIOUS STOP

SAUL’S CONVERSION

SAUL’S CONVERSION

SAUL’S CONVERSION

PETER VISITS CORNELIUS

As God guided each chapter of the big story through the centuries, he commanded his chosen people to set themselves apart from other peoples of the world. When Jesus came to earth, everything changed. God’s gift of salvation is for everyone. The early church struggles with this concept. To help clarify this issue, God sends a vision to the apostle Peter while he is in Joppa. At about the same time God also sends a vision to Cornelius in Caesarea. God wants to be certain that people of every race and religious background hear of his great gift.

READ:

ACTS 10:1-48

47 OF 54

ACTS 10:1-48

182 OF 215

ACTS 10:1-48

325 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The law of Moses clearly stated which animals were impure or unclean (Leviticus 11). For centuries the Jews had carefully followed these laws, eating only certain animals and not even touching some birds, reptiles, and animals. The instructions given in Peter’s vision represented a radical new way of thinking, not just about food but about the Jewish laws in general. Peter now realized that he should no longer consider anyone impure or unclean. Everyone is saved by God’s grace, not by adherence to the law.

EXPLORATION POINT

In the vision he gave to Peter, God made it very clear that he showed no favoritism. Jesus was Lord of all. He saw no differences between the Jews—God’s chosen people—and the Gentiles who were outside the Jewish heritage. Jews and Gentiles were equally welcome to the message of salvation and to the church. Christ had fulfilled all the obligations of the law of Moses, so the new believers did not have to follow those requirements. The Good News was for everyone who believed in Jesus.

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END OF READING 40

NEXT STOP

THE COUNCIL AT JERUSALEM: CONFLICT OVER GENTILES

PAUL’S FIRST MISSIONARY JOURNEY

PETER’S MIRACULOUS ESCAPE FROM PRISON

READING 41

PREVIOUS STOP

PETER VISITS CORNELIUS

FAITH AND ENDURANCE

CONTROLLING THE TONGUE

THE COUNCIL AT JERUSALEM: CONFLICT OVER GENTILES

The successful missionary work of Paul and others among the Gentiles is a cause for the new church to rejoice! The Good News is spreading all over the world, just as God had always planned in the big story. But for some early Jewish Christians, this raises some difficult questions. God had always worked through his chosen people, the Jews. Many believe that Gentiles, in addition to believing in Jesus, should be required to convert to a Jewish lifestyle in order to be saved. This is a significant issue for the leaders of the early church, and they gather in Jerusalem to address it.

READ:

ACTS 15:1-35

48 OF 54

ACTS 15:1-35

186 OF 215

ACTS 15:1-35

332 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Circumcision had religious significance for Jews as the sign of the covenant that God had established with the people of Israel. It was normally performed on the eighth day of a male infant’s life, but adult converts to Judaism were required to get circumcised, too. Circumcision became a metaphor for the renewal of a person’s relationship with God. But after Jesus’ resurrection and the gift of the Holy Spirit, faith in Jesus was all that would be required to be in right relationship with God. Jesus fulfilled the requirements of the Jewish law, and now all people everywhere relate to God through him.

EXPLORATION POINT

Ethnic background has no impact on how a person relates to God. Faith in Jesus is the only way to have a right relationship with God, and the presence of the Holy Spirit in a person’s life is clear evidence of that relationship. During their missionary travels, Paul and Barnabas gave clear testimony of the transforming presence of the Holy Spirit in the lives of Gentiles. Peter reminded everyone in Jerusalem that, years earlier, he had been sent by God to preach to a Gentile, Cornelius. No matter where you come from, trust in Jesus! He is the only way to God.

END OF READING 41

NEXT STOP

LOVE IS THE GREATEST

PAUL’S SECOND MISSIONARY JOURNEY

PAUL’S SECOND MISSIONARY JOURNEY

READING 42

PREVIOUS STOP

THE COUNCIL AT JERUSALEM: CONFLICT OVER GENTILES

PAUL MINISTERS IN EPHESUS

SPIRITUAL GIFTS

LOVE IS THE GREATEST

After his conversion, Paul brings the Good News to Asia Minor and Europe. He establishes churches in many cities and later stays in touch with the new believers by writing letters. This section of the letter he writes to the Corinthian church contains the great message that God has been conveying throughout the big story: He is a God of love. Everything he has done and continues to do for his people comes from his love for us. When God loves us and his Spirit lives in us, we naturally should display love to others.

READ:

1COR 13:1-13

49 OF 54

1COR 13:1-13

193 OF 215

1COR 13:1-13

342 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Mirrors in Paul’s day were usually made from hammered and highly polished bronze. These metal mirrors were round with handles carved from wood, ivory, or bone. They resembled contemporary handheld mirrors but did not give a clear image of the viewer as glass mirrors do today. Because they were never perfectly flat and reflective, they provided a reflection that was distorted and unclear.

EXPLORATION POINT

Love is at the core of God’s commandments for living: first, to “love the LORD your God”; and second, to “love your neighbor as yourself.” Love is central to Christianity. God loves us, forgives us, and cares deeply for us. Because of God’s love for us, he sent his Son to be with us, take on the punishment we deserve for our sins, and conquer death. Out of gratitude and love for all that he has done for us, we who bear the name of Christ must willingly and openly love God, ourselves, and others.

END OF READING 42

NEXT STOP

HAVE THE ATTITUDE OF CHRIST

GOD OFFERS COMFORT TO ALL

THE RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD

READING 43

PREVIOUS STOP

LOVE IS THE GREATEST

LIVING IN THE LIGHT

LIVING IN THE LIGHT

HAVE THE ATTITUDE OF CHRIST

While traveling throughout the Mediterranean world, Paul continues to write letters in order to teach the churches he started. He writes to the church in Philippi while he is under house arrest in Rome. Out of concern and love for the members of this church, Paul encourages them in their Christian life. In the big story, God continually wants to be in close relationship with his people. In humility, he became human in the person of Jesus and even suffered death for our sins. Paul calls Christians to follow Christ’s example of humility as we live in the power of the Spirit.

READ:

PHIL 2:1-18

50 OF 54

PHIL 2:1-18

199 OF 215

PHIL 1:1-11; 2:1-18

356 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The Greeks had a high regard for competitive sports, particularly chariot-, horse-, and footraces. Paul used sports as a metaphor for the Christian life, describing it as a strenuous contest or even combat against evil and former practices. He often used athletic language (“I did not run the race in vain”) as a way of illustrating the concepts he was teaching. Because athletic analogies would have been familiar to the new believers, Paul used them to make his teaching about Christian living more vivid and memorable.

EXPLORATION POINT

Philippians 2:6-11 is often called the Christ Hymn because most scholars think Paul is actually quoting something widely used in the worship of the early church. It reveals the early church’s belief in Christ’s nature: fully human yet fully divine. It declares that although he was God, Jesus humbled himself, became human, and died for the sins of all human beings so that we could be restored to relationship with God. The church remains unified in these beliefs and waits with eager anticipation for the day when Jesus will come again. On that day, every knee should bow at the name of Jesus.

Remember, join the conversation about today’s reading with the World's Biggest Small Group at group.wayfm.com.

END OF READING 43

NEXT STOP

GREAT EXAMPLES OF FAITH

PRESSING TOWARD THE GOAL

PRESSING TOWARD THE GOAL

READING 44

PREVIOUS STOP

HAVE THE ATTITUDE OF CHRIST

THE DANGER OF FALSE TEACHERS

A CALL TO PERSEVERE

GREAT EXAMPLES OF FAITH

In the big story, God has always wanted his people to rely on him and demonstrate their faith by the way they lived. There are many examples of these faithful people throughout the Bible. The writer of Hebrews regularly refers to Jewish history in order to connect with the audience and keep their attention. Now the writer focuses on the great heroes of Jewish history who remained strong in their faith. This passage expounds on the lives of well-known historical figures as examples of those who believed in God’s promise.

READ:

HEB 11:1-40

51 OF 54

HEB 11:1-40

209 OF 215

HEB 11:1-40

375 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

Many heroes are mentioned by name; others are not. The phrase “shut the mouths of lions, [and] quenched the flames of fire” probably refers, respectively, to Daniel in the lions’ den and to Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace. The prophets Elijah and Jeremiah both escaped death by the sword, and Elijah and Elisha brought people back from the dead. But faith doesn’t guarantee good outcomes. It is believed that Jeremiah was stoned to death and that Isaiah was sawed in half. Almost two centuries before Christ’s birth, many faithful Jews suffered and died in a struggle against Antiochus IV.

EXPLORATION POINT

These Old Testament heroes are examples of faith for Christians to follow. They were not perfect; they were flawed humans, and yet Hebrews holds them up as worthy of our recognition and emulation. They persevered as they clung to God’s promise, even though they died long before the promise was fulfilled. We live knowing that God did keep his promise to send the Messiah and save the world. Knowing that God’s promises are secure should help us endure any suffering or trying times we face in life.

END OF READING 44

NEXT STOP

THE NEW JERUSALEM

LOVE ONE ANOTHER

GOD’S DISCIPLINE PROVES HIS LOVE

READING 45

PREVIOUS STOP

GREAT EXAMPLES OF FAITH

THE WOMAN AND THE DRAGON

THE LAMB AND THE 144,000

THE NEW JERUSALEM

While in exile on the island of Patmos, John experiences amazing visions. These visions give the early Christian church great hope that God will be victorious in all things. God’s big story has always been a story of hope for the future. God made covenant promises with his people—for a son, a great nation, a homeland. He provided hope even in times of despair—hope for restoration, renewal, and a Messiah. God continues to promise a future of hope for his church. He shows John his plans through this vision, and God has preserved it to share with the world.

READ:

REV 21:1–22:6

52 OF 54

REV 21:1–22:6

213 OF 215

REV 21:1–22:6

384 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

The description of the holy city contains imagery from the Garden of Eden, the city of Jerusalem, and the Temple. The Eden imagery is seen in God’s dwelling among his people, the springs of the water of life, and the tree of life. The city of Jerusalem is depicted in the imagery of foundation stones, gates, and massive walls. And the shape of the city (a perfect square) corresponds with that of the Most Holy Place, the innermost sanctum of the Temple. An actual Temple is no longer needed because God’s presence permeates the entire holy city.

EXPLORATION POINT

God created humans so that he could be in loving relationship with them. Ever since sin shattered that intended relationship, God has been working toward restoration. Covenants, promises, commandments, and the incarnate presence of his Son have all been steps in the process of showing humans his great love for them. The day will come when God will make all things new again. His creation will be restored, and his relationship with his children will be perfected. On that day, sin will be completely eradicated, and every human will bow before him and call him Lord!

END OF READING 45

NEXT STOP

JESUS IS COMING

JESUS IS COMING

JESUS IS COMING

READING 46

PREVIOUS STOP

THE NEW JERUSALEM

THE NEW JERUSALEM

THE NEW JERUSALEM

JESUS IS COMING

As the Christian church grew, so did opposition to the new Christian beliefs and their new way of living. The persecuted churches needed hope to persevere. The vision God gave to the apostle John provided great comfort for the early church, and it has continued to do so for the church through the centuries. That story of God’s hope continues today. The big story that started at the beginning of time is not over yet. God will reveal himself in Christ the conquering King, and he will unite himself with his followers for all time.

READ:

REV 22:7-21

53 OF 54

REV 22:7-21

214 OF 215

REV 22:7-21

385 OF 386

OBSERVATION POINT

In 22:16, Jesus clearly identifies himself and ties the past to the future. Long ago God promised his people that a star would come from Jacob (Numbers 24:17). To Isaiah he promised that a shoot would come from “the stump of David’s family” (Isaiah 11:1). When Jesus walked the earth, people knew he was the son of David (Matthew 22:42). What was promised so many centuries before has come true. In one statement, Jesus unites thousands of years of prophecies and history.

EXPLORATION POINT

What a triumphant ending! God promises to come again to earth to be with his people. We can rejoice—there’s a happy ending to God’s big story. And we are all going to be part of it!

We’re glad that you’ve joined the World’s Biggest Small Group. Want to engage more with WAY-FM? Here are a few ways:

1. Sign up to receive the WAYMore eNewsletter here bit.ly/WAY-Mail.

2. Follow Word on the WAY on Twitter here twitter.com/wordontheway.

3. Visit us at WAYFM.com.

4. And remember, a lot of people are discussing these day readings every day at group.wayfm.com. (While you’re there, make sure you are signed up to win the trip for 2 to visit the Holy Land, too.)

END OF READING 46

FINAL STOP

WAITING FOR CHRIST

WAITING FOR CHRIST

WAITING FOR CHRIST

FLYOVER ROUTE ITINERARY

PREVIOUS STOP

JESUS IS COMING

JESUS IS COMING

JESUS IS COMING

YEAR:

AD 100

CURRENT WORLD POWER:

Rome

STATUS OF GOD’S PEOPLE:

Filled with God’s Spirit

WAITING FOR CHRIST

The story of God’s chosen people did not end with the Revelation of John; it continued through the centuries to the present. Although the writings of the early church fathers are not included in the Bible, they contributed to the church’s foundation and its beliefs. The beliefs established and recorded during the early centuries of church history are expressed in the creeds and confessions that are based on the biblical canon and have guided the church for ages.

In the two thousand years since Jesus came to earth, his followers have spread the Good News to every continent of the world. Christianity has greatly shaped Western civilization, influencing law, ethics, social practices, philosophy, the arts, and politics. Much of the modern West is steeped in Judeo-Christian beliefs, first formed in the Old Testament and renewed by Jesus Christ. Today, over two billion people call themselves Christians and are waiting for Christ’s glorious return to earth.

WHERE ARE WE GOING?

Just as all believers in the past have waited, we too wait for God to fulfill his promise that Jesus will come again to reign in glory. We do not know when he will come, but we live in faithful anticipation of his triumphant return. As we wait, we live in faithful obedience to God, doing what he has called us to do in life to bring him glory and promote his Kingdom. With expectation, we pray with the church through the ages this simple prayer: “Come, Lord Jesus!”

JESUS AS TRUE NORTH

From the time of Creation, Jesus has been present in the world. He was present when the universe was set in place, and he was present with the chosen people of the Old Testament. He came to earth as a human baby and lived with his people for thirty-three years. He suffered and died for the sins of the world, then he conquered death when he rose again—all so that he could be with the people and creation he loved. After he ascended into heaven, he gave his Spirit to his people, comforting them and enabling them to boldly share the Good News with others. Jesus’ followers live for him, worship him, and bring him glory. At a time known only to God, Jesus will come again to earth and reign in glory over the new creation. He will be with us forever.

WHERE IN THE WORLD ARE WE?

Genesis

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28   29   30   31   32   33   34   35   36   37   38   39   40   41   42   43   44   45   46   47   48   49   50

HOLY SPIRIT GENESIS 1:1-8

Genesis 1

THE ACCOUNT OF CREATION

1In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.[*] 2The earth was formless and empty, and darkness covered the deep waters. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters.

3Then God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. 4And God saw that the light was good. Then he separated the light from the darkness. 5God called the light “day” and the darkness “night.”

And evening passed and morning came, marking the first day.

6Then God said, “Let there be a space between the waters, to separate the waters of the heavens from the waters of the earth.” 7And that is what happened. God made this space to separate the waters of the earth from the waters of the heavens. 8God called the space “sky.”

And evening passed and morning came, marking the second day.

9Then God said, “Let the waters beneath the sky flow together into one place, so dry ground may appear.” And that is what happened. 10God called the dry ground “land” and the waters “seas.” And God saw that it was good. 11Then God said, “Let the land sprout with vegetation—every sort of seed-bearing plant, and trees that grow seed-bearing fruit. These seeds will then produce the kinds of plants and trees from which they came.” And that is what happened. 12The land produced vegetation—all sorts of seed-bearing plants, and trees with seed-bearing fruit. Their seeds produced plants and trees of the same kind. And God saw that it was good.

13And evening passed and morning came, marking the third day.

14Then God said, “Let lights appear in the sky to separate the day from the night. Let them be signs to mark the seasons, days, and years. 15Let these lights in the sky shine down on the earth.” And that is what happened. 16God made two great lights—the larger one to govern the day, and the smaller one to govern the night. He also made the stars. 17God set these lights in the sky to light the earth, 18to govern the day and night, and to separate the light from the darkness. And God saw that it was good.

19And evening passed and morning came, marking the fourth day.

20Then God said, “Let the waters swarm with fish and other life. Let the skies be filled with birds of every kind.” 21So God created great sea creatures and every living thing that scurries and swarms in the water, and every sort of bird—each producing offspring of the same kind. And God saw that it was good. 22Then God blessed them, saying, “Be fruitful and multiply. Let the fish fill the seas, and let the birds multiply on the earth.”

23And evening passed and morning came, marking the fifth day.

24Then God said, “Let the earth produce every sort of animal, each producing offspring of the same kind—livestock, small animals that scurry along the ground, and wild animals.” And that is what happened. 25God made all sorts of wild animals, livestock, and small animals, each able to produce offspring of the same kind. And God saw that it was good.

26Then God said, “Let us make human beings[*] in our image, to be like us. They will reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the livestock, all the wild animals on the earth,[*] and the small animals that scurry along the ground.”

27So God created human beings[*] in his own image.

In the image of God he created them;

male and female he created them.

28Then God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground.”

29Then God said, “Look! I have given you every seed-bearing plant throughout the earth and all the fruit trees for your food. 30And I have given every green plant as food for all the wild animals, the birds in the sky, and the small animals that scurry along the ground—everything that has life.” And that is what happened.

31Then God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was very good!

And evening passed and morning came, marking the sixth day.

Genesis 2

1So the creation of the heavens and the earth and everything in them was completed. 2On the seventh day God had finished his work of creation, so he rested[*] from all his work. 3And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, because it was the day when he rested from all his work of creation.

4This is the account of the creation of the heavens and the earth.

THE MAN AND WOMAN IN EDEN

When the LORD God made the earth and the heavens, 5neither wild plants nor grains were growing on the earth. For the LORD God had not yet sent rain to water the earth, and there were no people to cultivate the soil. 6Instead, springs[*] came up from the ground and watered all the land. 7Then the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground. He breathed the breath of life into the man’s nostrils, and the man became a living person.

GARDEN OF EDEN

8Then the LORD God planted a garden in Eden in the east, and there he placed the man he had made. 9The LORD God made all sorts of trees grow up from the ground—trees that were beautiful and that produced delicious fruit. In the middle of the garden he placed the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

10A river flowed from the land of Eden, watering the garden and then dividing into four branches. 11The first branch, called the Pishon, flowed around the entire land of Havilah, where gold is found. 12The gold of that land is exceptionally pure; aromatic resin and onyx stone are also found there. 13The second branch, called the Gihon, flowed around the entire land of Cush. 14The third branch, called the Tigris, flowed east of the land of Asshur. The fourth branch is called the Euphrates.

15The LORD God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it. 16But the LORD God warned him, “You may freely eat the fruit of every tree in the garden—17except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat its fruit, you are sure to die.”

WEDDINGS GENESIS 2:18-25

18Then the LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him.” 19So the LORD God formed from the ground all the wild animals and all the birds of the sky. He brought them to the man[*] to see what he would call them, and the man chose a name for each one. 20He gave names to all the livestock, all the birds of the sky, and all the wild animals. But still there was no helper just right for him.

21So the LORD God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep. While the man slept, the LORD God took out one of the man’s ribs[*] and closed up the opening. 22Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib, and he brought her to the man.

23“At last!” the man exclaimed.

“This one is bone from my bone,

and flesh from my flesh!

She will be called ‘woman,’

because she was taken from ‘man.’”

24This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.

25Now the man and his wife were both naked, but they felt no shame.

Genesis 3

THE MAN AND WOMAN SIN

1The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the LORD God had made. One day he asked the woman, “Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?”

2“Of course we may eat fruit from the trees in the garden,” the woman replied. 3“It’s only the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden that we are not allowed to eat. God said, ‘You must not eat it or even touch it; if you do, you will die.’”

4“You won’t die!” the serpent replied to the woman. 5“God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat it, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil.”

6The woman was convinced. She saw that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it, too. 7At that moment their eyes were opened, and they suddenly felt shame at their nakedness. So they sewed fig leaves together to cover themselves.

THE MESSIAH GENESIS 3:8-19

8When the cool evening breezes were blowing, the man[*] and his wife heard the LORD God walking about in the garden. So they hid from the LORD God among the trees. 9Then the LORD God called to the man, “Where are you?”

10He replied, “I heard you walking in the garden, so I hid. I was afraid because I was naked.”

11“Who told you that you were naked?” the LORD God asked. “Have you eaten from the tree whose fruit I commanded you not to eat?”

12The man replied, “It was the woman you gave me who gave me the fruit, and I ate it.”

13Then the LORD God asked the woman, “What have you done?”

“The serpent deceived me,” she replied. “That’s why I ate it.”

14Then the LORD God said to the serpent,

“Because you have done this, you are cursed

more than all animals, domestic and wild.

You will crawl on your belly,

groveling in the dust as long as you live.

15And I will cause hostility between you and the woman,

and between your offspring and her offspring.

He will strike[*] your head,

and you will strike his heel.”

16Then he said to the woman,

“I will sharpen the pain of your pregnancy,

and in pain you will give birth.

And you will desire to control your husband,

but he will rule over you.[*]”

17And to the man he said,

“Since you listened to your wife and ate from the tree

whose fruit I commanded you not to eat,

the ground is cursed because of you.

All your life you will struggle to scratch a living from it.

18It will grow thorns and thistles for you,

though you will eat of its grains.

19By the sweat of your brow

will you have food to eat

until you return to the ground

from which you were made.

For you were made from dust,

and to dust you will return.”

PARADISE LOST: GOD’S JUDGMENT

20Then the man—Adam—named his wife Eve, because she would be the mother of all who live.[*] 21And the LORD God made clothing from animal skins for Adam and his wife.

22Then the LORD God said, “Look, the human beings[*] have become like us, knowing both good and evil. What if they reach out, take fruit from the tree of life, and eat it? Then they will live forever!” 23So the LORD God banished them from the Garden of Eden, and he sent Adam out to cultivate the ground from which he had been made. 24After sending them out, the LORD God stationed mighty cherubim to the east of the Garden of Eden. And he placed a flaming sword that flashed back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life.

Genesis 7

THE FLOOD COVERS THE EARTH

1When everything was ready, the LORD said to Noah, “Go into the boat with all your family, for among all the people of the earth, I can see that you alone are righteous. 2Take with you seven pairs—male and female—of each animal I have approved for eating and for sacrifice,[*] and take one pair of each of the others. 3Also take seven pairs of every kind of bird. There must be a male and a female in each pair to ensure that all life will survive on the earth after the flood. 4Seven days from now I will make the rains pour down on the earth. And it will rain for forty days and forty nights, until I have wiped from the earth all the living things I have created.”

5So Noah did everything as the LORD commanded him.

6Noah was 600 years old when the flood covered the earth. 7He went on board the boat to escape the flood—he and his wife and his sons and their wives. 8With them were all the various kinds of animals—those approved for eating and for sacrifice and those that were not—along with all the birds and the small animals that scurry along the ground. 9They entered the boat in pairs, male and female, just as God had commanded Noah. 10After seven days, the waters of the flood came and covered the earth.

11When Noah was 600 years old, on the seventeenth day of the second month, all the underground waters erupted from the earth, and the rain fell in mighty torrents from the sky. 12The rain continued to fall for forty days and forty nights.

13That very day Noah had gone into the boat with his wife and his sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—and their wives. 14With them in the boat were pairs of every kind of animal—domestic and wild, large and small—along with birds of every kind. 15Two by two they came into the boat, representing every living thing that breathes. 16A male and female of each kind entered, just as God had commanded Noah. Then the LORD closed the door behind them.

17For forty days the floodwaters grew deeper, covering the ground and lifting the boat high above the earth. 18As the waters rose higher and higher above the ground, the boat floated safely on the surface. 19Finally, the water covered even the highest mountains on the earth, 20rising more than twenty-two feet[*] above the highest peaks. 21All the living things on earth died—birds, domestic animals, wild animals, small animals that scurry along the ground, and all the people. 22Everything that breathed and lived on dry land died. 23God wiped out every living thing on the earth—people, livestock, small animals that scurry along the ground, and the birds of the sky. All were destroyed. The only people who survived were Noah and those with him in the boat. 24And the floodwaters covered the earth for 150 days.

THE MOUNTAINS OF ARARAT

Genesis 8

THE FLOOD RECEDES

1But God remembered Noah and all the wild animals and livestock with him in the boat. He sent a wind to blow across the earth, and the floodwaters began to recede. 2The underground waters stopped flowing, and the torrential rains from the sky were stopped. 3So the floodwaters gradually receded from the earth. After 150 days, 4exactly five months from the time the flood began,[*] the boat came to rest on the mountains of Ararat. 5Two and a half months later,[*] as the waters continued to go down, other mountain peaks became visible.

6After another forty days, Noah opened the window he had made in the boat 7and released a raven. The bird flew back and forth until the floodwaters on the earth had dried up. 8He also released a dove to see if the water had receded and it could find dry ground. 9But the dove could find no place to land because the water still covered the ground. So it returned to the boat, and Noah held out his hand and drew the dove back inside. 10After waiting another seven days, Noah released the dove again. 11This time the dove returned to him in the evening with a fresh olive leaf in its beak. Then Noah knew that the floodwaters were almost gone. 12He waited another seven days and then released the dove again. This time it did not come back.

13Noah was now 601 years old. On the first day of the new year, ten and a half months after the flood began,[*] the floodwaters had almost dried up from the earth. Noah lifted back the covering of the boat and saw that the surface of the ground was drying. 14Two more months went by,[*] and at last the earth was dry!

15Then God said to Noah, 16“Leave the boat, all of you—you and your wife, and your sons and their wives. 17Release all the animals—the birds, the livestock, and the small animals that scurry along the ground—so they can be fruitful and multiply throughout the earth.”

18So Noah, his wife, and his sons and their wives left the boat. 19And all of the large and small animals and birds came out of the boat, pair by pair.

20Then Noah built an altar to the LORD, and there he sacrificed as burnt offerings the animals and birds that had been approved for that purpose.[*] 21And the LORD was pleased with the aroma of the sacrifice and said to himself, “I will never again curse the ground because of the human race, even though everything they think or imagine is bent toward evil from childhood. I will never again destroy all living things. 22As long as the earth remains, there will be planting and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night.”

Genesis 15

THE LORD’S COVENANT PROMISE TO ABRAM

1Some time later, the LORD spoke to Abram in a vision and said to him, “Do not be afraid, Abram, for I will protect you, and your reward will be great.”

2But Abram replied, “O Sovereign LORD, what good are all your blessings when I don’t even have a son? Since you’ve given me no children, Eliezer of Damascus, a servant in my household, will inherit all my wealth. 3You have given me no descendants of my own, so one of my servants will be my heir.”

4Then the LORD said to him, “No, your servant will not be your heir, for you will have a son of your own who will be your heir.” 5Then the LORD took Abram outside and said to him, “Look up into the sky and count the stars if you can. That’s how many descendants you will have!”

6And Abram believed the LORD, and the LORD counted him as righteous because of his faith.

7Then the LORD told him, “I am the LORD who brought you out of Ur of the Chaldeans to give you this land as your possession.”

8But Abram replied, “O Sovereign LORD, how can I be sure that I will actually possess it?”

9The LORD told him, “Bring me a three-year-old heifer, a three-year-old female goat, a three-year-old ram, a turtledove, and a young pigeon.” 10So Abram presented all these to him and killed them. Then he cut each animal down the middle and laid the halves side by side; he did not, however, cut the birds in half. 11Some vultures swooped down to eat the carcasses, but Abram chased them away.

12As the sun was going down, Abram fell into a deep sleep, and a terrifying darkness came down over him. 13Then the LORD said to Abram, “You can be sure that your descendants will be strangers in a foreign land, where they will be oppressed as slaves for 400 years. 14But I will punish the nation that enslaves them, and in the end they will come away with great wealth. 15(As for you, you will die in peace and be buried at a ripe old age.) 16After four generations your descendants will return here to this land, for the sins of the Amorites do not yet warrant their destruction.”

THE LAND PROMISED TO ABRAHAM

17After the sun went down and darkness fell, Abram saw a smoking firepot and a flaming torch pass between the halves of the carcasses. 18So the LORD made a covenant with Abram that day and said, “I have given this land to your descendants, all the way from the border of Egypt[*] to the great Euphrates River—19the land now occupied by the Kenites, Kenizzites, Kadmonites, 20Hittites, Perizzites, Rephaites, 21Amorites, Canaanites, Girgashites, and Jebusites.”

WHO ME? GENESIS 17:1-27

Genesis 17

ABRAM IS NAMED ABRAHAM

1When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said, “I am El-Shaddai—‘God Almighty.’ Serve me faithfully and live a blameless life. 2I will make a covenant with you, by which I will guarantee to give you countless descendants.”

ABRAHAM’S DESCENDANTS

3At this, Abram fell face down on the ground. Then God said to him, 4“This is my covenant with you: I will make you the father of a multitude of nations! 5What’s more, I am changing your name. It will no longer be Abram. Instead, you will be called Abraham,[*] for you will be the father of many nations. 6I will make you extremely fruitful. Your descendants will become many nations, and kings will be among them!

7“I will confirm my covenant with you and your descendants[*] after you, from generation to generation. This is the everlasting covenant: I will always be your God and the God of your descendants after you. 8And I will give the entire land of Canaan, where you now live as a foreigner, to you and your descendants. It will be their possession forever, and I will be their God.”

THE MARK OF THE COVENANT

9Then God said to Abraham, “Your responsibility is to obey the terms of the covenant. You and all your descendants have this continual responsibility. 10This is the covenant that you and your descendants must keep: Each male among you must be circumcised. 11You must cut off the flesh of your foreskin as a sign of the covenant between me and you. 12From generation to generation, every male child must be circumcised on the eighth day after his birth. This applies not only to members of your family but also to the servants born in your household and the foreign-born servants whom you have purchased. 13All must be circumcised. Your bodies will bear the mark of my everlasting covenant. 14Any male who fails to be circumcised will be cut off from the covenant family for breaking the covenant.”

SARAI IS NAMED SARAH

15Then God said to Abraham, “Regarding Sarai, your wife—her name will no longer be Sarai. From now on her name will be Sarah.[*] 16And I will bless her and give you a son from her! Yes, I will bless her richly, and she will become the mother of many nations. Kings of nations will be among her descendants.”

17Then Abraham bowed down to the ground, but he laughed to himself in disbelief. “How could I become a father at the age of 100?” he thought. “And how can Sarah have a baby when she is ninety years old?” 18So Abraham said to God, “May Ishmael live under your special blessing!”

19But God replied, “No—Sarah, your wife, will give birth to a son for you. You will name him Isaac,[*] and I will confirm my covenant with him and his descendants as an everlasting covenant. 20As for Ishmael, I will bless him also, just as you have asked. I will make him extremely fruitful and multiply his descendants. He will become the father of twelve princes, and I will make him a great nation. 21But my covenant will be confirmed with Isaac, who will be born to you and Sarah about this time next year.” 22When God had finished speaking, he left Abraham.

23On that very day Abraham took his son, Ishmael, and every male in his household, including those born there and those he had bought. Then he circumcised them, cutting off their foreskins, just as God had told him. 24Abraham was ninety-nine years old when he was circumcised, 25and Ishmael, his son, was thirteen. 26Both Abraham and his son, Ishmael, were circumcised on that same day, 27along with all the other men and boys of the household, whether they were born there or bought as servants. All were circumcised with him.

SODOM AND GOMORRAH

Genesis 18

A SON IS PROMISED TO SARAH

1The LORD appeared again to Abraham near the oak grove belonging to Mamre. One day Abraham was sitting at the entrance to his tent during the hottest part of the day. 2He looked up and noticed three men standing nearby. When he saw them, he ran to meet them and welcomed them, bowing low to the ground.

3“My lord,” he said, “if it pleases you, stop here for a while. 4Rest in the shade of this tree while water is brought to wash your feet. 5And since you’ve honored your servant with this visit, let me prepare some food to refresh you before you continue on your journey.”

“All right,” they said. “Do as you have said.”

6So Abraham ran back to the tent and said to Sarah, “Hurry! Get three large measures[*] of your best flour, knead it into dough, and bake some bread.” 7Then Abraham ran out to the herd and chose a tender calf and gave it to his servant, who quickly prepared it. 8When the food was ready, Abraham took some yogurt and milk and the roasted meat, and he served it to the men. As they ate, Abraham waited on them in the shade of the trees.

9“Where is Sarah, your wife?” the visitors asked.

“She’s inside the tent,” Abraham replied.

10Then one of them said, “I will return to you about this time next year, and your wife, Sarah, will have a son!”

Sarah was listening to this conversation from the tent. 11Abraham and Sarah were both very old by this time, and Sarah was long past the age of having children. 12So she laughed silently to herself and said, “How could a worn-out woman like me enjoy such pleasure, especially when my master—my husband—is also so old?”

13Then the LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh? Why did she say, ‘Can an old woman like me have a baby?’ 14Is anything too hard for the LORD? I will return about this time next year, and Sarah will have a son.”

15Sarah was afraid, so she denied it, saying, “I didn’t laugh.”

But the LORD said, “No, you did laugh.”

SKIP TO 21:1

ABRAHAM INTERCEDES FOR SODOM

16Then the men got up from their meal and looked out toward Sodom. As they left, Abraham went with them to send them on their way.

17“Should I hide my plan from Abraham?” the LORD asked. 18“For Abraham will certainly become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth will be blessed through him. 19I have singled him out so that he will direct his sons and their families to keep the way of the LORD by doing what is right and just. Then I will do for Abraham all that I have promised.”

20So the LORD told Abraham, “I have heard a great outcry from Sodom and Gomorrah, because their sin is so flagrant. 21I am going down to see if their actions are as wicked as I have heard. If not, I want to know.”

22The other men turned and headed toward Sodom, but the LORD remained with Abraham. 23Abraham approached him and said, “Will you sweep away both the righteous and the wicked? 24Suppose you find fifty righteous people living there in the city—will you still sweep it away and not spare it for their sakes? 25Surely you wouldn’t do such a thing, destroying the righteous along with the wicked. Why, you would be treating the righteous and the wicked exactly the same! Surely you wouldn’t do that! Should not the Judge of all the earth do what is right?”

26And the LORD replied, “If I find fifty righteous people in Sodom, I will spare the entire city for their sake.”

27Then Abraham spoke again. “Since I have begun, let me speak further to my Lord, even though I am but dust and ashes. 28Suppose there are only forty-five righteous people rather than fifty? Will you destroy the whole city for lack of five?”

And the LORD said, “I will not destroy it if I find forty-five righteous people there.”

29Then Abraham pressed his request further. “Suppose there are only forty?”

And the LORD replied, “I will not destroy it for the sake of the forty.”

30“Please don’t be angry, my Lord,” Abraham pleaded. “Let me speak—suppose only thirty righteous people are found?”

And the LORD replied, “I will not destroy it if I find thirty.”

31Then Abraham said, “Since I have dared to speak to the Lord, let me continue—suppose there are only twenty?”

And the LORD replied, “Then I will not destroy it for the sake of the twenty.”

32Finally, Abraham said, “Lord, please don’t be angry with me if I speak one more time. Suppose only ten are found there?”

And the LORD replied, “Then I will not destroy it for the sake of the ten.”

33When the LORD had finished his conversation with Abraham, he went on his way, and Abraham returned to his tent.

HEALING GENESIS 21:1-7

Genesis 21

THE BIRTH OF ISAAC

1The LORD kept his word and did for Sarah exactly what he had promised. 2She became pregnant, and she gave birth to a son for Abraham in his old age. This happened at just the time God had said it would. 3And Abraham named their son Isaac. 4Eight days after Isaac was born, Abraham circumcised him as God had commanded. 5Abraham was 100 years old when Isaac was born.

6And Sarah declared, “God has brought me laughter.[*] All who hear about this will laugh with me. 7Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse a baby? Yet I have given Abraham a son in his old age!”

HAGAR AND ISHMAEL ARE SENT AWAY

8When Isaac grew up and was about to be weaned, Abraham prepared a huge feast to celebrate the occasion. 9But Sarah saw Ishmael—the son of Abraham and her Egyptian servant Hagar—making fun of her son, Isaac.[*] 10So she turned to Abraham and demanded, “Get rid of that slave woman and her son. He is not going to share the inheritance with my son, Isaac. I won’t have it!”

11This upset Abraham very much because Ishmael was his son. 12But God told Abraham, “Do not be upset over the boy and your servant. Do whatever Sarah tells you, for Isaac is the son through whom your descendants will be counted. 13But I will also make a nation of the descendants of Hagar’s son because he is your son, too.”

14So Abraham got up early the next morning, prepared food and a container of water, and strapped them on Hagar’s shoulders. Then he sent her away with their son, and she wandered aimlessly in the wilderness of Beersheba.

15When the water was gone, she put the boy in the shade of a bush. 16Then she went and sat down by herself about a hundred yards[*] away. “I don’t want to watch the boy die,” she said, as she burst into tears.

17But God heard the boy crying, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven, “Hagar, what’s wrong? Do not be afraid! God has heard the boy crying as he lies there. 18Go to him and comfort him, for I will make a great nation from his descendants.”

19Then God opened Hagar’s eyes, and she saw a well full of water. She quickly filled her water container and gave the boy a drink.

20And God was with the boy as he grew up in the wilderness. He became a skillful archer, 21and he settled in the wilderness of Paran. His mother arranged for him to marry a woman from the land of Egypt.

ABRAHAM’S COVENANT WITH ABIMELECH

22About this time, Abimelech came with Phicol, his army commander, to visit Abraham. “God is obviously with you, helping you in everything you do,” Abimelech said. 23“Swear to me in God’s name that you will never deceive me, my children, or any of my descendants. I have been loyal to you, so now swear that you will be loyal to me and to this country where you are living as a foreigner.”

24Abraham replied, “Yes, I swear to it!” 25Then Abraham complained to Abimelech about a well that Abimelech’s servants had taken by force from Abraham’s servants.

26“This is the first I’ve heard of it,” Abimelech answered. “I have no idea who is responsible. You have never complained about this before.”

27Abraham then gave some of his sheep, goats, and cattle to Abimelech, and they made a treaty. 28But Abraham also took seven additional female lambs and set them off by themselves. 29Abimelech asked, “Why have you set these seven apart from the others?”

30Abraham replied, “Please accept these seven lambs to show your agreement that I dug this well.” 31Then he named the place Beersheba (which means “well of the oath”), because that was where they had sworn the oath.

32After making their covenant at Beersheba, Abimelech left with Phicol, the commander of his army, and they returned home to the land of the Philistines. 33Then Abraham planted a tamarisk tree at Beersheba, and there he worshiped the LORD, the Eternal God.[*] 34And Abraham lived as a foreigner in Philistine country for a long time.

Genesis 32

1[*]As Jacob started on his way again, angels of God came to meet him. 2When Jacob saw them, he exclaimed, “This is God’s camp!” So he named the place Mahanaim.[*]

JACOB SENDS GIFTS TO ESAU

3Then Jacob sent messengers ahead to his brother, Esau, who was living in the region of Seir in the land of Edom. 4He told them, “Give this message to my master Esau: ‘Humble greetings from your servant Jacob. Until now I have been living with Uncle Laban, 5and now I own cattle, donkeys, flocks of sheep and goats, and many servants, both men and women. I have sent these messengers to inform my lord of my coming, hoping that you will be friendly to me.’”

6After delivering the message, the messengers returned to Jacob and reported, “We met your brother, Esau, and he is already on his way to meet you—with an army of 400 men!” 7Jacob was terrified at the news. He divided his household, along with the flocks and herds and camels, into two groups. 8He thought, “If Esau meets one group and attacks it, perhaps the other group can escape.”

9Then Jacob prayed, “O God of my grandfather Abraham, and God of my father, Isaac—O LORD, you told me, ‘Return to your own land and to your relatives.’ And you promised me, ‘I will treat you kindly.’ 10I am not worthy of all the unfailing love and faithfulness you have shown to me, your servant. When I left home and crossed the Jordan River, I owned nothing except a walking stick. Now my household fills two large camps! 11O LORD, please rescue me from the hand of my brother, Esau. I am afraid that he is coming to attack me, along with my wives and children. 12But you promised me, ‘I will surely treat you kindly, and I will multiply your descendants until they become as numerous as the sands along the seashore—too many to count.’”

13Jacob stayed where he was for the night. Then he selected these gifts from his possessions to present to his brother, Esau: 14200 female goats, 20 male goats, 200 ewes, 20 rams, 1530 female camels with their young, 40 cows, 10 bulls, 20 female donkeys, and 10 male donkeys. 16He divided these animals into herds and assigned each to different servants. Then he told his servants, “Go ahead of me with the animals, but keep some distance between the herds.”

17He gave these instructions to the men leading the first group: “When my brother, Esau, meets you, he will ask, ‘Whose servants are you? Where are you going? Who owns these animals?’ 18You must reply, ‘They belong to your servant Jacob, but they are a gift for his master Esau. Look, he is coming right behind us.’”

19Jacob gave the same instructions to the second and third herdsmen and to all who followed behind the herds: “You must say the same thing to Esau when you meet him. 20And be sure to say, ‘Look, your servant Jacob is right behind us.’”

Jacob thought, “I will try to appease him by sending gifts ahead of me. When I see him in person, perhaps he will be friendly to me.” 21So the gifts were sent on ahead, while Jacob himself spent that night in the camp.

FACING GOD GENESIS 32:22-32

JACOB WRESTLES WITH GOD

22During the night Jacob got up and took his two wives, his two servant wives, and his eleven sons and crossed the Jabbok River with them. 23After taking them to the other side, he sent over all his possessions.

24This left Jacob all alone in the camp, and a man came and wrestled with him until the dawn began to break. 25When the man saw that he would not win the match, he touched Jacob’s hip and wrenched it out of its socket. 26Then the man said, “Let me go, for the dawn is breaking!”

But Jacob said, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.”

27“What is your name?” the man asked.

He replied, “Jacob.”

28“Your name will no longer be Jacob,” the man told him. “From now on you will be called Israel,[*] because you have fought with God and with men and have won.”

29“Please tell me your name,” Jacob said.

“Why do you want to know my name?” the man replied. Then he blessed Jacob there.

30Jacob named the place Peniel (which means “face of God”), for he said, “I have seen God face to face, yet my life has been spared.” 31The sun was rising as Jacob left Peniel,[*] and he was limping because of the injury to his hip. 32(Even today the people of Israel don’t eat the tendon near the hip socket because of what happened that night when the man strained the tendon of Jacob’s hip.)

EGYPT

Genesis 37

JOSEPH’S DREAMS

1So Jacob settled again in the land of Canaan, where his father had lived as a foreigner.

2This is the account of Jacob and his family. When Joseph was seventeen years old, he often tended his father’s flocks. He worked for his half brothers, the sons of his father’s wives Bilhah and Zilpah. But Joseph reported to his father some of the bad things his brothers were doing.

3Jacob[*] loved Joseph more than any of his other children because Joseph had been born to him in his old age. So one day Jacob had a special gift made for Joseph—a beautiful robe.[*] 4But his brothers hated Joseph because their father loved him more than the rest of them. They couldn’t say a kind word to him.

5One night Joseph had a dream, and when he told his brothers about it, they hated him more than ever. 6“Listen to this dream,” he said. 7“We were out in the field, tying up bundles of grain. Suddenly my bundle stood up, and your bundles all gathered around and bowed low before mine!”

8His brothers responded, “So you think you will be our king, do you? Do you actually think you will reign over us?” And they hated him all the more because of his dreams and the way he talked about them.

9Soon Joseph had another dream, and again he told his brothers about it. “Listen, I have had another dream,” he said. “The sun, moon, and eleven stars bowed low before me!”

10This time he told the dream to his father as well as to his brothers, but his father scolded him. “What kind of dream is that?” he asked. “Will your mother and I and your brothers actually come and bow to the ground before you?” 11But while his brothers were jealous of Joseph, his father wondered what the dreams meant.

12Soon after this, Joseph’s brothers went to pasture their father’s flocks at Shechem. 13When they had been gone for some time, Jacob said to Joseph, “Your brothers are pasturing the sheep at Shechem. Get ready, and I will send you to them.”

“I’m ready to go,” Joseph replied.

14“Go and see how your brothers and the flocks are getting along,” Jacob said. “Then come back and bring me a report.” So Jacob sent him on his way, and Joseph traveled to Shechem from their home in the valley of Hebron.

15When he arrived there, a man from the area noticed him wandering around the countryside. “What are you looking for?” he asked.

16“I’m looking for my brothers,” Joseph replied. “Do you know where they are pasturing their sheep?”

17“Yes,” the man told him. “They have moved on from here, but I heard them say, ‘Let’s go on to Dothan.’” So Joseph followed his brothers to Dothan and found them there.

JOSEPH SOLD INTO SLAVERY

18When Joseph’s brothers saw him coming, they recognized him in the distance. As he approached, they made plans to kill him. 19“Here comes the dreamer!” they said. 20“Come on, let’s kill him and throw him into one of these cisterns. We can tell our father, ‘A wild animal has eaten him.’ Then we’ll see what becomes of his dreams!”

21But when Reuben heard of their scheme, he came to Joseph’s rescue. “Let’s not kill him,” he said. 22“Why should we shed any blood? Let’s just throw him into this empty cistern here in the wilderness. Then he’ll die without our laying a hand on him.” Reuben was secretly planning to rescue Joseph and return him to his father.

23So when Joseph arrived, his brothers ripped off the beautiful robe he was wearing. 24Then they grabbed him and threw him into the cistern. Now the cistern was empty; there was no water in it. 25Then, just as they were sitting down to eat, they looked up and saw a caravan of camels in the distance coming toward them. It was a group of Ishmaelite traders taking a load of gum, balm, and aromatic resin from Gilead down to Egypt.

26Judah said to his brothers, “What will we gain by killing our brother? We’d have to cover up the crime.[*] 27Instead of hurting him, let’s sell him to those Ishmaelite traders. After all, he is our brother—our own flesh and blood!” And his brothers agreed. 28So when the Ishmaelites, who were Midianite traders, came by, Joseph’s brothers pulled him out of the cistern and sold him to them for twenty pieces[*] of silver. And the traders took him to Egypt.

29Some time later, Reuben returned to get Joseph out of the cistern. When he discovered that Joseph was missing, he tore his clothes in grief. 30Then he went back to his brothers and lamented, “The boy is gone! What will I do now?”

31Then the brothers killed a young goat and dipped Joseph’s robe in its blood. 32They sent the beautiful robe to their father with this message: “Look at what we found. Doesn’t this robe belong to your son?”

33Their father recognized it immediately. “Yes,” he said, “it is my son’s robe. A wild animal must have eaten him. Joseph has clearly been torn to pieces!” 34Then Jacob tore his clothes and dressed himself in burlap. He mourned deeply for his son for a long time. 35His family all tried to comfort him, but he refused to be comforted. “I will go to my grave[*] mourning for my son,” he would say, and then he would weep.

36Meanwhile, the Midianite traders[*] arrived in Egypt, where they sold Joseph to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. Potiphar was captain of the palace guard.

Exodus

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Exodus 1

THE ISRAELITES IN EGYPT

1These are the names of the sons of Israel (that is, Jacob) who moved to Egypt with their father, each with his family: 2Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, 3Issachar, Zebulun, Benjamin, 4Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher. 5In all, Jacob had seventy[*] descendants in Egypt, including Joseph, who was already there.

6In time, Joseph and all of his brothers died, ending that entire generation. 7But their descendants, the Israelites, had many children and grandchildren. In fact, they multiplied so greatly that they became extremely powerful and filled the land.

8Eventually, a new king came to power in Egypt who knew nothing about Joseph or what he had done. 9He said to his people, “Look, the people of Israel now outnumber us and are stronger than we are. 10We must make a plan to keep them from growing even more. If we don’t, and if war breaks out, they will join our enemies and fight against us. Then they will escape from the country.[*]”

PITHOM AND RAMESES

11So the Egyptians made the Israelites their slaves. They appointed brutal slave drivers over them, hoping to wear them down with crushing labor. They forced them to build the cities of Pithom and Rameses as supply centers for the king. 12But the more the Egyptians oppressed them, the more the Israelites multiplied and spread, and the more alarmed the Egyptians became. 13So the Egyptians worked the people of Israel without mercy. 14They made their lives bitter, forcing them to mix mortar and make bricks and do all the work in the fields. They were ruthless in all their demands.

15Then Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, gave this order to the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah: 16“When you help the Hebrew women as they give birth, watch as they deliver.[*] If the baby is a boy, kill him; if it is a girl, let her live.” 17But because the midwives feared God, they refused to obey the king’s orders. They allowed the boys to live, too.

18So the king of Egypt called for the midwives. “Why have you done this?” he demanded. “Why have you allowed the boys to live?”

19“The Hebrew women are not like the Egyptian women,” the midwives replied. “They are more vigorous and have their babies so quickly that we cannot get there in time.”

20So God was good to the midwives, and the Israelites continued to multiply, growing more and more powerful. 21And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families of their own.

22Then Pharaoh gave this order to all his people: “Throw every newborn Hebrew boy into the Nile River. But you may let the girls live.”

Exodus 2

THE BIRTH OF MOSES

1About this time, a man and woman from the tribe of Levi got married. 2The woman became pregnant and gave birth to a son. She saw that he was a special baby and kept him hidden for three months. 3But when she could no longer hide him, she got a basket made of papyrus reeds and waterproofed it with tar and pitch. She put the baby in the basket and laid it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile River. 4The baby’s sister then stood at a distance, watching to see what would happen to him.

5Soon Pharaoh’s daughter came down to bathe in the river, and her attendants walked along the riverbank. When the princess saw the basket among the reeds, she sent her maid to get it for her. 6When the princess opened it, she saw the baby. The little boy was crying, and she felt sorry for him. “This must be one of the Hebrew children,” she said.

7Then the baby’s sister approached the princess. “Should I go and find one of the Hebrew women to nurse the baby for you?” she asked.

8“Yes, do!” the princess replied. So the girl went and called the baby’s mother.

9“Take this baby and nurse him for me,” the princess told the baby’s mother. “I will pay you for your help.” So the woman took her baby home and nursed him.

10Later, when the boy was older, his mother brought him back to Pharaoh’s daughter, who adopted him as her own son. The princess named him Moses,[*] for she explained, “I lifted him out of the water.”

MOSES ESCAPES TO MIDIAN

11Many years later, when Moses had grown up, he went out to visit his own people, the Hebrews, and he saw how hard they were forced to work. During his visit, he saw an Egyptian beating one of his fellow Hebrews. 12After looking in all directions to make sure no one was watching, Moses killed the Egyptian and hid the body in the sand.

13The next day, when Moses went out to visit his people again, he saw two Hebrew men fighting. “Why are you beating up your friend?” Moses said to the one who had started the fight.

14The man replied, “Who appointed you to be our prince and judge? Are you going to kill me as you killed that Egyptian yesterday?”

MIDIAN

Then Moses was afraid, thinking, “Everyone knows what I did.” 15And sure enough, Pharaoh heard what had happened, and he tried to kill Moses. But Moses fled from Pharaoh and went to live in the land of Midian.

When Moses arrived in Midian, he sat down beside a well. 16Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters who came as usual to draw water and fill the water troughs for their father’s flocks. 17But some other shepherds came and chased them away. So Moses jumped up and rescued the girls from the shepherds. Then he drew water for their flocks.

18When the girls returned to Reuel, their father, he asked, “Why are you back so soon today?”

19“An Egyptian rescued us from the shepherds,” they answered. “And then he drew water for us and watered our flocks.”

20“Then where is he?” their father asked. “Why did you leave him there? Invite him to come and eat with us.”

21Moses accepted the invitation, and he settled there with him. In time, Reuel gave Moses his daughter Zipporah to be his wife. 22Later she gave birth to a son, and Moses named him Gershom,[*] for he explained, “I have been a foreigner in a foreign land.”

23Years passed, and the king of Egypt died. But the Israelites continued to groan under their burden of slavery. They cried out for help, and their cry rose up to God. 24God heard their groaning, and he remembered his covenant promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 25He looked down on the people of Israel and knew it was time to act.[*]

Exodus 13

DEDICATION OF THE FIRSTBORN

1Then the LORD said to Moses, 2“Dedicate to me every firstborn among the Israelites. The first offspring to be born, of both humans and animals, belongs to me.”

3So Moses said to the people, “This is a day to remember forever—the day you left Egypt, the place of your slavery. Today the LORD has brought you out by the power of his mighty hand. (Remember, eat no food containing yeast.) 4On this day in early spring, in the month of Abib,[*] you have been set free. 5You must celebrate this event in this month each year after the LORD brings you into the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Hivites, and Jebusites. (He swore to your ancestors that he would give you this land—a land flowing with milk and honey.) 6For seven days the bread you eat must be made without yeast. Then on the seventh day, celebrate a feast to the LORD. 7Eat bread without yeast during those seven days. In fact, there must be no yeast bread or any yeast at all found within the borders of your land during this time.

8“On the seventh day you must explain to your children, ‘I am celebrating what the LORD did for me when I left Egypt.’ 9This annual festival will be a visible sign to you, like a mark branded on your hand or your forehead. Let it remind you always to recite this teaching of the LORD: ‘With a strong hand, the LORD rescued you from Egypt.’[*] 10So observe the decree of this festival at the appointed time each year.

11“This is what you must do when the LORD fulfills the promise he swore to you and to your ancestors. When he gives you the land where the Canaanites now live, 12you must present all firstborn sons and firstborn male animals to the LORD, for they belong to him. 13A firstborn donkey may be bought back from the LORD by presenting a lamb or young goat in its place. But if you do not buy it back, you must break its neck. However, you must buy back every firstborn son.

14“And in the future, your children will ask you, ‘What does all this mean?’ Then you will tell them, ‘With the power of his mighty hand, the LORD brought us out of Egypt, the place of our slavery. 15Pharaoh stubbornly refused to let us go, so the LORD killed all the firstborn males throughout the land of Egypt, both people and animals. That is why I now sacrifice all the firstborn males to the LORD—except that the firstborn sons are always bought back.’ 16This ceremony will be like a mark branded on your hand or your forehead. It is a reminder that the power of the LORD’s mighty hand brought us out of Egypt.”

ISRAEL’S WILDERNESS DETOUR

17When Pharaoh finally let the people go, God did not lead them along the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was the shortest route to the Promised Land. God said, “If the people are faced with a battle, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” 18So God led them in a roundabout way through the wilderness toward the Red Sea.[*] Thus the Israelites left Egypt like an army ready for battle.[*]

19Moses took the bones of Joseph with him, for Joseph had made the sons of Israel swear to do this. He said, “God will certainly come to help you. When he does, you must take my bones with you from this place.”

20The Israelites left Succoth and camped at Etham on the edge of the wilderness. 21The LORD went ahead of them. He guided them during the day with a pillar of cloud, and he provided light at night with a pillar of fire. This allowed them to travel by day or by night. 22And the LORD did not remove the pillar of cloud or pillar of fire from its place in front of the people.

Exodus 14

1Then the LORD gave these instructions to Moses: 2“Order the Israelites to turn back and camp by Pi-hahiroth between Migdol and the sea. Camp there along the shore, across from Baal-zephon. 3Then Pharaoh will think, ‘The Israelites are confused. They are trapped in the wilderness!’ 4And once again I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and he will chase after you.[*] I have planned this in order to display my glory through Pharaoh and his whole army. After this the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD!” So the Israelites camped there as they were told.

THE EGYPTIANS PURSUE ISRAEL

5When word reached the king of Egypt that the Israelites had fled, Pharaoh and his officials changed their minds. “What have we done, letting all those Israelite slaves get away?” they asked. 6So Pharaoh harnessed his chariot and called up his troops. 7He took with him 600 of Egypt’s best chariots, along with the rest of the chariots of Egypt, each with its commander. 8The LORD hardened the heart of Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, so he chased after the people of Israel, who had left with fists raised in defiance. 9The Egyptians chased after them with all the forces in Pharaoh’s army—all his horses and chariots, his charioteers, and his troops. The Egyptians caught up with the people of Israel as they were camped beside the shore near Pi-hahiroth, across from Baal-zephon.

10As Pharaoh approached, the people of Israel looked up and panicked when they saw the Egyptians overtaking them. They cried out to the LORD, 11and they said to Moses, “Why did you bring us out here to die in the wilderness? Weren’t there enough graves for us in Egypt? What have you done to us? Why did you make us leave Egypt? 12Didn’t we tell you this would happen while we were still in Egypt? We said, ‘Leave us alone! Let us be slaves to the Egyptians. It’s better to be a slave in Egypt than a corpse in the wilderness!’”

13But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the LORD rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. 14The LORD himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”

ESCAPE THROUGH THE RED SEA

15Then the LORD said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving! 16Pick up your staff and raise your hand over the sea. Divide the water so the Israelites can walk through the middle of the sea on dry ground. 17And I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians, and they will charge in after the Israelites. My great glory will be displayed through Pharaoh and his troops, his chariots, and his charioteers. 18When my glory is displayed through them, all Egypt will see my glory and know that I am the LORD!”

19Then the angel of God, who had been leading the people of Israel, moved to the rear of the camp. The pillar of cloud also moved from the front and stood behind them. 20The cloud settled between the Egyptian and Israelite camps. As darkness fell, the cloud turned to fire, lighting up the night. But the Egyptians and Israelites did not approach each other all night.

21Then Moses raised his hand over the sea, and the LORD opened up a path through the water with a strong east wind. The wind blew all that night, turning the seabed into dry land. 22So the people of Israel walked through the middle of the sea on dry ground, with walls of water on each side!

23Then the Egyptians—all of Pharaoh’s horses, chariots, and charioteers—chased them into the middle of the sea. 24But just before dawn the LORD looked down on the Egyptian army from the pillar of fire and cloud, and he threw their forces into total confusion. 25He twisted[*] their chariot wheels, making their chariots difficult to drive. “Let’s get out of here—away from these Israelites!” the Egyptians shouted. “The LORD is fighting for them against Egypt!”

26When all the Israelites had reached the other side, the LORD said to Moses, “Raise your hand over the sea again. Then the waters will rush back and cover the Egyptians and their chariots and charioteers.” 27So as the sun began to rise, Moses raised his hand over the sea, and the water rushed back into its usual place. The Egyptians tried to escape, but the LORD swept them into the sea. 28Then the waters returned and covered all the chariots and charioteers—the entire army of Pharaoh. Of all the Egyptians who had chased the Israelites into the sea, not a single one survived.

29But the people of Israel had walked through the middle of the sea on dry ground, as the water stood up like a wall on both sides. 30That is how the LORD rescued Israel from the hand of the Egyptians that day. And the Israelites saw the bodies of the Egyptians washed up on the seashore. 31When the people of Israel saw the mighty power that the LORD had unleashed against the Egyptians, they were filled with awe before him. They put their faith in the LORD and in his servant Moses.

WILDERNESS OF SINAI

Exodus 19

THE LORD REVEALS HIMSELF AT SINAI

1Exactly two months after the Israelites left Egypt,[*] they arrived in the wilderness of Sinai. 2After breaking camp at Rephidim, they came to the wilderness of Sinai and set up camp there at the base of Mount Sinai.

MOUNT SINAI

3Then Moses climbed the mountain to appear before God. The LORD called to him from the mountain and said, “Give these instructions to the family of Jacob; announce it to the descendants of Israel: 4‘You have seen what I did to the Egyptians. You know how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. 5Now if you will obey me and keep my covenant, you will be my own special treasure from among all the peoples on earth; for all the earth belongs to me. 6And you will be my kingdom of priests, my holy nation.’ This is the message you must give to the people of Israel.”

7So Moses returned from the mountain and called together the elders of the people and told them everything the LORD had commanded him. 8And all the people responded together, “We will do everything the LORD has commanded.” So Moses brought the people’s answer back to the LORD.

9Then the LORD said to Moses, “I will come to you in a thick cloud, Moses, so the people themselves can hear me when I speak with you. Then they will always trust you.”

Moses told the LORD what the people had said. 10Then the LORD told Moses, “Go down and prepare the people for my arrival. Consecrate them today and tomorrow, and have them wash their clothing. 11Be sure they are ready on the third day, for on that day the LORD will come down on Mount Sinai as all the people watch. 12Mark off a boundary all around the mountain. Warn the people, ‘Be careful! Do not go up on the mountain or even touch its boundaries. Anyone who touches the mountain will certainly be put to death. 13No hand may touch the person or animal that crosses the boundary; instead, stone them or shoot them with arrows. They must be put to death.’ However, when the ram’s horn sounds a long blast, then the people may go up on the mountain.[*]”

14So Moses went down to the people. He consecrated them for worship, and they washed their clothes. 15He told them, “Get ready for the third day, and until then abstain from having sexual intercourse.”

16On the morning of the third day, thunder roared and lightning flashed, and a dense cloud came down on the mountain. There was a long, loud blast from a ram’s horn, and all the people trembled. 17Moses led them out from the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain. 18All of Mount Sinai was covered with smoke because the LORD had descended on it in the form of fire. The smoke billowed into the sky like smoke from a brick kiln, and the whole mountain shook violently. 19As the blast of the ram’s horn grew louder and louder, Moses spoke, and God thundered his reply. 20The LORD came down on the top of Mount Sinai and called Moses to the top of the mountain. So Moses climbed the mountain.

21Then the LORD told Moses, “Go back down and warn the people not to break through the boundaries to see the LORD, or they will die. 22Even the priests who regularly come near to the LORD must purify themselves so that the LORD does not break out and destroy them.”

23“But LORD,” Moses protested, “the people cannot come up to Mount Sinai. You already warned us. You told me, ‘Mark off a boundary all around the mountain to set it apart as holy.’”

24But the LORD said, “Go down and bring Aaron back up with you. In the meantime, do not let the priests or the people break through to approach the LORD, or he will break out and destroy them.”

25So Moses went down to the people and told them what the LORD had said.

Exodus 20

TEN COMMANDMENTS FOR THE COVENANT COMMUNITY

1Then God gave the people all these instructions[*]:

2“I am the LORD your God, who rescued you from the land of Egypt, the place of your slavery.

3“You must not have any other god but me.

4“You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind or an image of anything in the heavens or on the earth or in the sea. 5You must not bow down to them or worship them, for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God who will not tolerate your affection for any other gods. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children; the entire family is affected—even children in the third and fourth generations of those who reject me. 6But I lavish unfailing love for a thousand generations on those[*] who love me and obey my commands.

7“You must not misuse the name of the LORD your God. The LORD will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name.

8“Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9You have six days each week for your ordinary work, 10but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the LORD your God. On that day no one in your household may do any work. This includes you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, your livestock, and any foreigners living among you. 11For in six days the LORD made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything in them; but on the seventh day he rested. That is why the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and set it apart as holy.

12“Honor your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the LORD your God is giving you.

13“You must not murder.

14“You must not commit adultery.

15“You must not steal.

16“You must not testify falsely against your neighbor.

17“You must not covet your neighbor’s house. You must not covet your neighbor’s wife, male or female servant, ox or donkey, or anything else that belongs to your neighbor.”

18When the people heard the thunder and the loud blast of the ram’s horn, and when they saw the flashes of lightning and the smoke billowing from the mountain, they stood at a distance, trembling with fear.

19And they said to Moses, “You speak to us, and we will listen. But don’t let God speak directly to us, or we will die!”

20“Don’t be afraid,” Moses answered them, “for God has come in this way to test you, and so that your fear of him will keep you from sinning!”

21As the people stood in the distance, Moses approached the dark cloud where God was.

PROPER USE OF ALTARS

22And the LORD said to Moses, “Say this to the people of Israel: You saw for yourselves that I spoke to you from heaven. 23Remember, you must not make any idols of silver or gold to rival me.

24“Build for me an altar made of earth, and offer your sacrifices to me—your burnt offerings and peace offerings, your sheep and goats, and your cattle. Build my altar wherever I cause my name to be remembered, and I will come to you and bless you. 25If you use stones to build my altar, use only natural, uncut stones. Do not shape the stones with a tool, for that would make the altar unfit for holy use. 26And do not approach my altar by going up steps. If you do, someone might look up under your clothing and see your nakedness.

Leviticus

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Numbers

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Numbers 9

THE SECOND PASSOVER

1A year after Israel’s departure from Egypt, the LORD spoke to Moses in the wilderness of Sinai. In the first month[*] of that year he said, 2“Tell the Israelites to celebrate the Passover at the prescribed time, 3at twilight on the fourteenth day of the first month.[*] Be sure to follow all my decrees and regulations concerning this celebration.”

4So Moses told the people to celebrate the Passover 5in the wilderness of Sinai as twilight fell on the fourteenth day of the month. And they celebrated the festival there, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 6But some of the men had been ceremonially defiled by touching a dead body, so they could not celebrate the Passover that day. They came to Moses and Aaron that day 7and said, “We have become ceremonially unclean by touching a dead body. But why should we be prevented from presenting the LORD’s offering at the proper time with the rest of the Israelites?”

8Moses answered, “Wait here until I have received instructions for you from the LORD.”

9This was the LORD’s reply to Moses. 10“Give the following instructions to the people of Israel: If any of the people now or in future generations are ceremonially unclean at Passover time because of touching a dead body, or if they are on a journey and cannot be present at the ceremony, they may still celebrate the LORD’s Passover. 11They must offer the Passover sacrifice one month later, at twilight on the fourteenth day of the second month.[*] They must eat the Passover lamb at that time with bitter salad greens and bread made without yeast. 12They must not leave any of the lamb until the next morning, and they must not break any of its bones. They must follow all the normal regulations concerning the Passover.

13“But those who neglect to celebrate the Passover at the regular time, even though they are ceremonially clean and not away on a trip, will be cut off from the community of Israel. If they fail to present the LORD’s offering at the proper time, they will suffer the consequences of their guilt. 14And if foreigners living among you want to celebrate the Passover to the LORD, they must follow these same decrees and regulations. The same laws apply both to native-born Israelites and to the foreigners living among you.”

THE FIERY CLOUD

15On the day the Tabernacle was set up, the cloud covered it.[*] But from evening until morning the cloud over the Tabernacle looked like a pillar of fire. 16This was the regular pattern—at night the cloud that covered the Tabernacle had the appearance of fire. 17Whenever the cloud lifted from over the sacred tent, the people of Israel would break camp and follow it. And wherever the cloud settled, the people of Israel would set up camp. 18In this way, they traveled and camped at the LORD’s command wherever he told them to go. Then they remained in their camp as long as the cloud stayed over the Tabernacle. 19If the cloud remained over the Tabernacle for a long time, the Israelites stayed and performed their duty to the LORD. 20Sometimes the cloud would stay over the Tabernacle for only a few days, so the people would stay for only a few days, as the LORD commanded. Then at the LORD’s command they would break camp and move on. 21Sometimes the cloud stayed only overnight and lifted the next morning. But day or night, when the cloud lifted, the people broke camp and moved on. 22Whether the cloud stayed above the Tabernacle for two days, a month, or a year, the people of Israel stayed in camp and did not move on. But as soon as it lifted, they broke camp and moved on. 23So they camped or traveled at the LORD’s command, and they did whatever the LORD told them through Moses.

Deuteronomy

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28   29   30   31   32   33   34

Joshua

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24

Joshua 5

1When all the Amorite kings west of the Jordan and all the Canaanite kings who lived along the Mediterranean coast[*] heard how the LORD had dried up the Jordan River so the people of Israel could cross, they lost heart and were paralyzed with fear because of them.

ISRAEL REESTABLISHES COVENANT CEREMONIES

2At that time the LORD told Joshua, “Make flint knives and circumcise this second generation of Israelites.[*]” 3So Joshua made flint knives and circumcised the entire male population of Israel at Gibeath-haaraloth.[*]

4Joshua had to circumcise them because all the men who were old enough to fight in battle when they left Egypt had died in the wilderness. 5Those who left Egypt had all been circumcised, but none of those born after the Exodus, during the years in the wilderness, had been circumcised. 6The Israelites had traveled in the wilderness for forty years until all the men who were old enough to fight in battle when they left Egypt had died. For they had disobeyed the LORD, and the LORD vowed he would not let them enter the land he had sworn to give us—a land flowing with milk and honey. 7So Joshua circumcised their sons—those who had grown up to take their fathers’ places—for they had not been circumcised on the way to the Promised Land. 8After all the males had been circumcised, they rested in the camp until they were healed.

9Then the LORD said to Joshua, “Today I have rolled away the shame of your slavery in Egypt.” So that place has been called Gilgal[*] to this day.

10While the Israelites were camped at Gilgal on the plains of Jericho, they celebrated Passover on the evening of the fourteenth day of the first month.[*] 11The very next day they began to eat unleavened bread and roasted grain harvested from the land. 12No manna appeared on the day they first ate from the crops of the land, and it was never seen again. So from that time on the Israelites ate from the crops of Canaan.

THE LORD’S COMMANDER CONFRONTS JOSHUA

13When Joshua was near the town of Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with sword in hand. Joshua went up to him and demanded, “Are you friend or foe?”

14“Neither one,” he replied. “I am the commander of the LORD’s army.”

At this, Joshua fell with his face to the ground in reverence. “I am at your command,” Joshua said. “What do you want your servant to do?”

15The commander of the LORD’s army replied, “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did as he was told.

EXCAVATION AT JERICHO

Joshua 6

THE FALL OF JERICHO

1Now the gates of Jericho were tightly shut because the people were afraid of the Israelites. No one was allowed to go out or in. 2But the LORD said to Joshua, “I have given you Jericho, its king, and all its strong warriors. 3You and your fighting men should march around the town once a day for six days. 4Seven priests will walk ahead of the Ark, each carrying a ram’s horn. On the seventh day you are to march around the town seven times, with the priests blowing the horns. 5When you hear the priests give one long blast on the rams’ horns, have all the people shout as loud as they can. Then the walls of the town will collapse, and the people can charge straight into the town.”

6So Joshua called together the priests and said, “Take up the Ark of the LORD’s Covenant, and assign seven priests to walk in front of it, each carrying a ram’s horn.” 7Then he gave orders to the people: “March around the town, and the armed men will lead the way in front of the Ark of the LORD.”

8After Joshua spoke to the people, the seven priests with the rams’ horns started marching in the presence of the LORD, blowing the horns as they marched. And the Ark of the LORD’s Covenant followed behind them. 9Some of the armed men marched in front of the priests with the horns and some behind the Ark, with the priests continually blowing the horns. 10“Do not shout; do not even talk,” Joshua commanded. “Not a single word from any of you until I tell you to shout. Then shout!” 11So the Ark of the LORD was carried around the town once that day, and then everyone returned to spend the night in the camp.

12Joshua got up early the next morning, and the priests again carried the Ark of the LORD. 13The seven priests with the rams’ horns marched in front of the Ark of the LORD, blowing their horns. Again the armed men marched both in front of the priests with the horns and behind the Ark of the LORD. All this time the priests were blowing their horns. 14On the second day they again marched around the town once and returned to the camp. They followed this pattern for six days.

15On the seventh day the Israelites got up at dawn and marched around the town as they had done before. But this time they went around the town seven times. 16The seventh time around, as the priests sounded the long blast on their horns, Joshua commanded the people, “Shout! For the LORD has given you the town! 17Jericho and everything in it must be completely destroyed[*] as an offering to the LORD. Only Rahab the prostitute and the others in her house will be spared, for she protected our spies.

18“Do not take any of the things set apart for destruction, or you yourselves will be completely destroyed, and you will bring trouble on the camp of Israel. 19Everything made from silver, gold, bronze, or iron is sacred to the LORD and must be brought into his treasury.”

20When the people heard the sound of the rams’ horns, they shouted as loud as they could. Suddenly, the walls of Jericho collapsed, and the Israelites charged straight into the town and captured it. 21They completely destroyed everything in it with their swords—men and women, young and old, cattle, sheep, goats, and donkeys.

22Meanwhile, Joshua said to the two spies, “Keep your promise. Go to the prostitute’s house and bring her out, along with all her family.”

23The men who had been spies went in and brought out Rahab, her father, mother, brothers, and all the other relatives who were with her. They moved her whole family to a safe place near the camp of Israel.

24Then the Israelites burned the town and everything in it. Only the things made from silver, gold, bronze, or iron were kept for the treasury of the LORD’s house. 25So Joshua spared Rahab the prostitute and her relatives who were with her in the house, because she had hidden the spies Joshua sent to Jericho. And she lives among the Israelites to this day.

26At that time Joshua invoked this curse:

“May the curse of the LORD fall on anyone

who tries to rebuild the town of Jericho.

At the cost of his firstborn son,

he will lay its foundation.

At the cost of his youngest son,

he will set up its gates.”

27So the LORD was with Joshua, and his reputation spread throughout the land.

Judges

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21

Judges 16

SAMSON CARRIES AWAY GAZA’S GATES

1One day Samson went to the Philistine town of Gaza and spent the night with a prostitute. 2Word soon spread[*] that Samson was there, so the men of Gaza gathered together and waited all night at the town gates. They kept quiet during the night, saying to themselves, “When the light of morning comes, we will kill him.”

3But Samson stayed in bed only until midnight. Then he got up, took hold of the doors of the town gate, including the two posts, and lifted them up, bar and all. He put them on his shoulders and carried them all the way to the top of the hill across from Hebron.

SAMSON AND DELILAH

4Some time later Samson fell in love with a woman named Delilah, who lived in the valley of Sorek. 5The rulers of the Philistines went to her and said, “Entice Samson to tell you what makes him so strong and how he can be overpowered and tied up securely. Then each of us will give you 1,100 pieces[*] of silver.”

6So Delilah said to Samson, “Please tell me what makes you so strong and what it would take to tie you up securely.”

7Samson replied, “If I were tied up with seven new bowstrings that have not yet been dried, I would become as weak as anyone else.”

8So the Philistine rulers brought Delilah seven new bowstrings, and she tied Samson up with them. 9She had hidden some men in one of the inner rooms of her house, and she cried out, “Samson! The Philistines have come to capture you!” But Samson snapped the bowstrings as a piece of string snaps when it is burned by a fire. So the secret of his strength was not discovered.

10Afterward Delilah said to him, “You’ve been making fun of me and telling me lies! Now please tell me how you can be tied up securely.”

11Samson replied, “If I were tied up with brand-new ropes that had never been used, I would become as weak as anyone else.”

12So Delilah took new ropes and tied him up with them. The men were hiding in the inner room as before, and again Delilah cried out, “Samson! The Philistines have come to capture you!” But again Samson snapped the ropes from his arms as if they were thread.

13Then Delilah said, “You’ve been making fun of me and telling me lies! Now tell me how you can be tied up securely.”

Samson replied, “If you were to weave the seven braids of my hair into the fabric on your loom and tighten it with the loom shuttle, I would become as weak as anyone else.”

So while he slept, Delilah wove the seven braids of his hair into the fabric. 14Then she tightened it with the loom shuttle.[*] Again she cried out, “Samson! The Philistines have come to capture you!” But Samson woke up, pulled back the loom shuttle, and yanked his hair away from the loom and the fabric.

15Then Delilah pouted, “How can you tell me, ‘I love you,’ when you don’t share your secrets with me? You’ve made fun of me three times now, and you still haven’t told me what makes you so strong!” 16She tormented him with her nagging day after day until he was sick to death of it.

17Finally, Samson shared his secret with her. “My hair has never been cut,” he confessed, “for I was dedicated to God as a Nazirite from birth. If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak as anyone else.”

18Delilah realized he had finally told her the truth, so she sent for the Philistine rulers. “Come back one more time,” she said, “for he has finally told me his secret.” So the Philistine rulers returned with the money in their hands. 19Delilah lulled Samson to sleep with his head in her lap, and then she called in a man to shave off the seven locks of his hair. In this way she began to bring him down,[*] and his strength left him.

20Then she cried out, “Samson! The Philistines have come to capture you!”

When he woke up, he thought, “I will do as before and shake myself free.” But he didn’t realize the LORD had left him.

21So the Philistines captured him and gouged out his eyes. They took him to Gaza, where he was bound with bronze chains and forced to grind grain in the prison.

22But before long, his hair began to grow back.

SAMSON’S FINAL VICTORY

23The Philistine rulers held a great festival, offering sacrifices and praising their god, Dagon. They said, “Our god has given us victory over our enemy Samson!”

24When the people saw him, they praised their god, saying, “Our god has delivered our enemy to us! The one who killed so many of us is now in our power!”

25Half drunk by now, the people demanded, “Bring out Samson so he can amuse us!” So he was brought from the prison to amuse them, and they had him stand between the pillars supporting the roof.

26Samson said to the young servant who was leading him by the hand, “Place my hands against the pillars that hold up the temple. I want to rest against them.” 27Now the temple was completely filled with people. All the Philistine rulers were there, and there were about 3,000 men and women on the roof who were watching as Samson amused them.

28Then Samson prayed to the LORD, “Sovereign LORD, remember me again. O God, please strengthen me just one more time. With one blow let me pay back the Philistines for the loss of my two eyes.” 29Then Samson put his hands on the two center pillars that held up the temple. Pushing against them with both hands, 30he prayed, “Let me die with the Philistines.” And the temple crashed down on the Philistine rulers and all the people. So he killed more people when he died than he had during his entire lifetime.

31Later his brothers and other relatives went down to get his body. They took him back home and buried him between Zorah and Eshtaol, where his father, Manoah, was buried. Samson had judged Israel for twenty years.

Ruth

Introduction   1   2   3   4

1 Samuel

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28   29   30   31

1 Samuel 3

THE LORD SPEAKS TO SAMUEL

1Meanwhile, the boy Samuel served the LORD by assisting Eli. Now in those days messages from the LORD were very rare, and visions were quite uncommon.

2One night Eli, who was almost blind by now, had gone to bed. 3The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was sleeping in the Tabernacle[*] near the Ark of God. 4Suddenly the LORD called out, “Samuel!”

“Yes?” Samuel replied. “What is it?” 5He got up and ran to Eli. “Here I am. Did you call me?”

“I didn’t call you,” Eli replied. “Go back to bed.” So he did.

6Then the LORD called out again, “Samuel!”

Again Samuel got up and went to Eli. “Here I am. Did you call me?”

“I didn’t call you, my son,” Eli said. “Go back to bed.”

7Samuel did not yet know the LORD because he had never had a message from the LORD before. 8So the LORD called a third time, and once more Samuel got up and went to Eli. “Here I am. Did you call me?”

Then Eli realized it was the LORD who was calling the boy. 9So he said to Samuel, “Go and lie down again, and if someone calls again, say, ‘Speak, LORD, your servant is listening.’” So Samuel went back to bed.

10And the LORD came and called as before, “Samuel! Samuel!”

And Samuel replied, “Speak, your servant is listening.”

11Then the LORD said to Samuel, “I am about to do a shocking thing in Israel. 12I am going to carry out all my threats against Eli and his family, from beginning to end. 13I have warned him that judgment is coming upon his family forever, because his sons are blaspheming God[*] and he hasn’t disciplined them. 14So I have vowed that the sins of Eli and his sons will never be forgiven by sacrifices or offerings.”

SAMUEL SPEAKS FOR THE LORD

15Samuel stayed in bed until morning, then got up and opened the doors of the Tabernacle[*] as usual. He was afraid to tell Eli what the LORD had said to him. 16But Eli called out to him, “Samuel, my son.”

“Here I am,” Samuel replied.

17“What did the LORD say to you? Tell me everything. And may God strike you and even kill you if you hide anything from me!” 18So Samuel told Eli everything; he didn’t hold anything back. “It is the LORD’s will,” Eli replied. “Let him do what he thinks best.”

19As Samuel grew up, the LORD was with him, and everything Samuel said proved to be reliable. 20And all Israel, from Dan in the north to Beersheba in the south, knew that Samuel was confirmed as a prophet of the LORD. 21The LORD continued to appear at Shiloh and gave messages to Samuel there at the Tabernacle.

1 Samuel 4

THE PHILISTINES CAPTURE THE ARK

1And Samuel’s words went out to all the people of Israel.[*] At that time Israel was at war with the Philistines. The Israelite army was camped near Ebenezer, and the Philistines were at Aphek. 2The Philistines attacked and defeated the army of Israel, killing 4,000 men. 3After the battle was over, the troops retreated to their camp, and the elders of Israel asked, “Why did the LORD allow us to be defeated by the Philistines?” Then they said, “Let’s bring the Ark of the Covenant of the LORD from Shiloh. If we carry it into battle with us, it[*] will save us from our enemies.”

4So they sent men to Shiloh to bring the Ark of the Covenant of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, who is enthroned between the cherubim. Hophni and Phinehas, the sons of Eli, were also there with the Ark of the Covenant of God. 5When all the Israelites saw the Ark of the Covenant of the LORD coming into the camp, their shout of joy was so loud it made the ground shake!

6“What’s going on?” the Philistines asked. “What’s all the shouting about in the Hebrew camp?” When they were told it was because the Ark of the LORD had arrived, 7they panicked. “The gods have[*] come into their camp!” they cried. “This is a disaster! We have never had to face anything like this before! 8Help! Who can save us from these mighty gods of Israel? They are the same gods who destroyed the Egyptians with plagues when Israel was in the wilderness. 9Fight as never before, Philistines! If you don’t, we will become the Hebrews’ slaves just as they have been ours! Stand up like men and fight!”

10So the Philistines fought desperately, and Israel was defeated again. The slaughter was great; 30,000 Israelite soldiers died that day. The survivors turned and fled to their tents. 11The Ark of God was captured, and Hophni and Phinehas, the two sons of Eli, were killed.

SKIP TO 5:1

THE DEATH OF ELI

12A man from the tribe of Benjamin ran from the battlefield and arrived at Shiloh later that same day. He had torn his clothes and put dust on his head to show his grief. 13Eli was waiting beside the road to hear the news of the battle, for his heart trembled for the safety of the Ark of God. When the messenger arrived and told what had happened, an outcry resounded throughout the town.

14“What is all the noise about?” Eli asked.

The messenger rushed over to Eli, 15who was ninety-eight years old and blind. 16He said to Eli, “I have just come from the battlefield—I was there this very day.”

“What happened, my son?” Eli demanded.

17“Israel has been defeated by the Philistines,” the messenger replied. “The people have been slaughtered, and your two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were also killed. And the Ark of God has been captured.”

18When the messenger mentioned what had happened to the Ark of God, Eli fell backward from his seat beside the gate. He broke his neck and died, for he was old and overweight. He had been Israel’s judge for forty years.

19Eli’s daughter-in-law, the wife of Phinehas, was pregnant and near her time of delivery. When she heard that the Ark of God had been captured and that her father-in-law and husband were dead, she went into labor and gave birth. 20She died in childbirth, but before she passed away the midwives tried to encourage her. “Don’t be afraid,” they said. “You have a baby boy!” But she did not answer or pay attention to them.

21She named the child Ichabod (which means “Where is the glory?”), for she said, “Israel’s glory is gone.” She named him this because the Ark of God had been captured and because her father-in-law and husband were dead. 22Then she said, “The glory has departed from Israel, for the Ark of God has been captured.”

1 Samuel 17

GOLIATH CHALLENGES THE ISRAELITES

1The Philistines now mustered their army for battle and camped between Socoh in Judah and Azekah at Ephes-dammim. 2Saul countered by gathering his Israelite troops near the valley of Elah. 3So the Philistines and Israelites faced each other on opposite hills, with the valley between them.

4Then Goliath, a Philistine champion from Gath, came out of the Philistine ranks to face the forces of Israel. He was over nine feet[*] tall! 5He wore a bronze helmet, and his bronze coat of mail weighed 125 pounds.[*] 6He also wore bronze leg armor, and he carried a bronze javelin on his shoulder. 7The shaft of his spear was as heavy and thick as a weaver’s beam, tipped with an iron spearhead that weighed 15 pounds.[*] His armor bearer walked ahead of him carrying a shield.

8Goliath stood and shouted a taunt across to the Israelites. “Why are you all coming out to fight?” he called. “I am the Philistine champion, but you are only the servants of Saul. Choose one man to come down here and fight me! 9If he kills me, then we will be your slaves. But if I kill him, you will be our slaves! 10I defy the armies of Israel today! Send me a man who will fight me!” 11When Saul and the Israelites heard this, they were terrified and deeply shaken.

JESSE SENDS DAVID TO SAUL’S CAMP

12Now David was the son of a man named Jesse, an Ephrathite from Bethlehem in the land of Judah. Jesse was an old man at that time, and he had eight sons. 13Jesse’s three oldest sons—Eliab, Abinadab, and Shimea[*]—had already joined Saul’s army to fight the Philistines. 14David was the youngest son. David’s three oldest brothers stayed with Saul’s army, 15but David went back and forth so he could help his father with the sheep in Bethlehem.

16For forty days, every morning and evening, the Philistine champion strutted in front of the Israelite army.

THE VALLEY OF ELAH

17One day Jesse said to David, “Take this basket[*] of roasted grain and these ten loaves of bread, and carry them quickly to your brothers. 18And give these ten cuts of cheese to their captain. See how your brothers are getting along, and bring back a report on how they are doing.[*]” 19David’s brothers were with Saul and the Israelite army at the valley of Elah, fighting against the Philistines.

20So David left the sheep with another shepherd and set out early the next morning with the gifts, as Jesse had directed him. He arrived at the camp just as the Israelite army was leaving for the battlefield with shouts and battle cries. 21Soon the Israelite and Philistine forces stood facing each other, army against army. 22David left his things with the keeper of supplies and hurried out to the ranks to greet his brothers. 23As he was talking with them, Goliath, the Philistine champion from Gath, came out from the Philistine ranks. Then David heard him shout his usual taunt to the army of Israel.

24As soon as the Israelite army saw him, they began to run away in fright. 25“Have you seen the giant?” the men asked. “He comes out each day to defy Israel. The king has offered a huge reward to anyone who kills him. He will give that man one of his daughters for a wife, and the man’s entire family will be exempted from paying taxes!”

26David asked the soldiers standing nearby, “What will a man get for killing this Philistine and ending his defiance of Israel? Who is this pagan Philistine anyway, that he is allowed to defy the armies of the living God?”

27And these men gave David the same reply. They said, “Yes, that is the reward for killing him.”

28But when David’s oldest brother, Eliab, heard David talking to the men, he was angry. “What are you doing around here anyway?” he demanded. “What about those few sheep you’re supposed to be taking care of? I know about your pride and deceit. You just want to see the battle!”

29“What have I done now?” David replied. “I was only asking a question!” 30He walked over to some others and asked them the same thing and received the same answer. 31Then David’s question was reported to King Saul, and the king sent for him.

DAVID KILLS GOLIATH

32“Don’t worry about this Philistine,” David told Saul. “I’ll go fight him!”

33“Don’t be ridiculous!” Saul replied. “There’s no way you can fight this Philistine and possibly win! You’re only a boy, and he’s been a man of war since his youth.”

34But David persisted. “I have been taking care of my father’s sheep and goats,” he said. “When a lion or a bear comes to steal a lamb from the flock, 35I go after it with a club and rescue the lamb from its mouth. If the animal turns on me, I catch it by the jaw and club it to death. 36I have done this to both lions and bears, and I’ll do it to this pagan Philistine, too, for he has defied the armies of the living God! 37The LORD who rescued me from the claws of the lion and the bear will rescue me from this Philistine!”

Saul finally consented. “All right, go ahead,” he said. “And may the LORD be with you!”

38Then Saul gave David his own armor—a bronze helmet and a coat of mail. 39David put it on, strapped the sword over it, and took a step or two to see what it was like, for he had never worn such things before.

“I can’t go in these,” he protested to Saul. “I’m not used to them.” So David took them off again. 40He picked up five smooth stones from a stream and put them into his shepherd’s bag. Then, armed only with his shepherd’s staff and sling, he started across the valley to fight the Philistine.

41Goliath walked out toward David with his shield bearer ahead of him, 42sneering in contempt at this ruddy-faced boy. 43“Am I a dog,” he roared at David, “that you come at me with a stick?” And he cursed David by the names of his gods. 44“Come over here, and I’ll give your flesh to the birds and wild animals!” Goliath yelled.

45David replied to the Philistine, “You come to me with sword, spear, and javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies—the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46Today the LORD will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! 47And everyone assembled here will know that the LORD rescues his people, but not with sword and spear. This is the LORD’s battle, and he will give you to us!”

48As Goliath moved closer to attack, David quickly ran out to meet him. 49Reaching into his shepherd’s bag and taking out a stone, he hurled it with his sling and hit the Philistine in the forehead. The stone sank in, and Goliath stumbled and fell face down on the ground.

50So David triumphed over the Philistine with only a sling and a stone, for he had no sword. 51Then David ran over and pulled Goliath’s sword from its sheath. David used it to kill him and cut off his head.

ISRAEL ROUTS THE PHILISTINES

When the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they turned and ran. 52Then the men of Israel and Judah gave a great shout of triumph and rushed after the Philistines, chasing them as far as Gath[*] and the gates of Ekron. The bodies of the dead and wounded Philistines were strewn all along the road from Shaaraim, as far as Gath and Ekron. 53Then the Israelite army returned and plundered the deserted Philistine camp. 54(David took the Philistine’s head to Jerusalem, but he stored the man’s armor in his own tent.)

55As Saul watched David go out to fight the Philistine, he asked Abner, the commander of his army, “Abner, whose son is this young man?”

“I really don’t know,” Abner declared.

56“Well, find out who he is!” the king told him.

57As soon as David returned from killing Goliath, Abner brought him to Saul with the Philistine’s head still in his hand. 58“Tell me about your father, young man,” Saul said.

And David replied, “His name is Jesse, and we live in Bethlehem.”

2 Samuel

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24

1 Kings

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22

1 Kings 3

SOLOMON ASKS FOR WISDOM

1Solomon made an alliance with Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, and married one of his daughters. He brought her to live in the City of David until he could finish building his palace and the Temple of the LORD and the wall around the city. 2At that time the people of Israel sacrificed their offerings at local places of worship, for a temple honoring the name of the LORD had not yet been built.

THE CITY OF GIBEON

3Solomon loved the LORD and followed all the decrees of his father, David, except that Solomon, too, offered sacrifices and burned incense at the local places of worship. 4The most important of these places of worship was at Gibeon, so the king went there and sacrificed 1,000 burnt offerings. 5That night the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream, and God said, “What do you want? Ask, and I will give it to you!”

6Solomon replied, “You showed great and faithful love to your servant my father, David, because he was honest and true and faithful to you. And you have continued to show this great and faithful love to him today by giving him a son to sit on his throne.

7“Now, O LORD my God, you have made me king instead of my father, David, but I am like a little child who doesn’t know his way around. 8And here I am in the midst of your own chosen people, a nation so great and numerous they cannot be counted! 9Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?”

10The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for wisdom. 11So God replied, “Because you have asked for wisdom in governing my people with justice and have not asked for a long life or wealth or the death of your enemies—12I will give you what you asked for! I will give you a wise and understanding heart such as no one else has had or ever will have! 13And I will also give you what you did not ask for—riches and fame! No other king in all the world will be compared to you for the rest of your life! 14And if you follow me and obey my decrees and my commands as your father, David, did, I will give you a long life.”

15Then Solomon woke up and realized it had been a dream. He returned to Jerusalem and stood before the Ark of the Lord’s Covenant, where he sacrificed burnt offerings and peace offerings. Then he invited all his officials to a great banquet.

SOLOMON JUDGES WISELY

16Some time later two prostitutes came to the king to have an argument settled. 17“Please, my lord,” one of them began, “this woman and I live in the same house. I gave birth to a baby while she was with me in the house. 18Three days later this woman also had a baby. We were alone; there were only two of us in the house.

19“But her baby died during the night when she rolled over on it. 20Then she got up in the night and took my son from beside me while I was asleep. She laid her dead child in my arms and took mine to sleep beside her. 21And in the morning when I tried to nurse my son, he was dead! But when I looked more closely in the morning light, I saw that it wasn’t my son at all.”

22Then the other woman interrupted, “It certainly was your son, and the living child is mine.”

“No,” the first woman said, “the living child is mine, and the dead one is yours.” And so they argued back and forth before the king.

23Then the king said, “Let’s get the facts straight. Both of you claim the living child is yours, and each says that the dead one belongs to the other. 24All right, bring me a sword.” So a sword was brought to the king.

25Then he said, “Cut the living child in two, and give half to one woman and half to the other!”

26Then the woman who was the real mother of the living child, and who loved him very much, cried out, “Oh no, my lord! Give her the child—please do not kill him!”

But the other woman said, “All right, he will be neither yours nor mine; divide him between us!”

27Then the king said, “Do not kill the child, but give him to the woman who wants him to live, for she is his mother!”

28When all Israel heard the king’s decision, the people were in awe of the king, for they saw the wisdom God had given him for rendering justice.

SKIP TO 4:29

1 Kings 12

THE NORTHERN TRIBES REVOLT

1Rehoboam went to Shechem, where all Israel had gathered to make him king. 2When Jeroboam son of Nebat heard of this, he returned from Egypt,[*] for he had fled to Egypt to escape from King Solomon. 3The leaders of Israel summoned him, and Jeroboam and the whole assembly of Israel went to speak with Rehoboam. 4“Your father was a hard master,” they said. “Lighten the harsh labor demands and heavy taxes that your father imposed on us. Then we will be your loyal subjects.”

5Rehoboam replied, “Give me three days to think this over. Then come back for my answer.” So the people went away.

6Then King Rehoboam discussed the matter with the older men who had counseled his father, Solomon. “What is your advice?” he asked. “How should I answer these people?”

7The older counselors replied, “If you are willing to be a servant to these people today and give them a favorable answer, they will always be your loyal subjects.”

8But Rehoboam rejected the advice of the older men and instead asked the opinion of the young men who had grown up with him and were now his advisers. 9“What is your advice?” he asked them. “How should I answer these people who want me to lighten the burdens imposed by my father?”

10The young men replied, “This is what you should tell those complainers who want a lighter burden: ‘My little finger is thicker than my father’s waist! 11Yes, my father laid heavy burdens on you, but I’m going to make them even heavier! My father beat you with whips, but I will beat you with scorpions!’”

12Three days later Jeroboam and all the people returned to hear Rehoboam’s decision, just as the king had ordered. 13But Rehoboam spoke harshly to the people, for he rejected the advice of the older counselors 14and followed the counsel of his younger advisers. He told the people, “My father laid heavy burdens on you, but I’m going to make them even heavier! My father beat you with whips, but I will beat you with scorpions!”

15So the king paid no attention to the people. This turn of events was the will of the LORD, for it fulfilled the LORD’s message to Jeroboam son of Nebat through the prophet Ahijah from Shiloh.

16When all Israel realized that the king had refused to listen to them, they responded,

“Down with the dynasty of David!

We have no interest in the son of Jesse.

Back to your homes, O Israel!

Look out for your own house, O David!”

So the people of Israel returned home. 17But Rehoboam continued to rule over the Israelites who lived in the towns of Judah.

18King Rehoboam sent Adoniram,[*] who was in charge of forced labor, to restore order, but the people of Israel stoned him to death. When this news reached King Rehoboam, he quickly jumped into his chariot and fled to Jerusalem. 19And to this day the northern tribes of Israel have refused to be ruled by a descendant of David.

20When the people of Israel learned of Jeroboam’s return from Egypt, they called an assembly and made him king over all Israel. So only the tribe of Judah remained loyal to the family of David.

SHEMAIAH’S PROPHECY

21When Rehoboam arrived at Jerusalem, he mobilized the men of Judah and the tribe of Benjamin—180,000 select troops—to fight against the men of Israel and to restore the kingdom to himself.

22But God said to Shemaiah, the man of God, 23“Say to Rehoboam son of Solomon, king of Judah, and to all the people of Judah and Benjamin, and to the rest of the people, 24‘This is what the LORD says: Do not fight against your relatives, the Israelites. Go back home, for what has happened is my doing!’” So they obeyed the message of the LORD and went home, as the LORD had commanded.

WORSHIP IN THE NORTHERN KINGDOM

JEROBOAM MAKES GOLD CALVES

25Jeroboam then built up the city of Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim, and it became his capital. Later he went and built up the town of Peniel.[*]

26Jeroboam thought to himself, “Unless I am careful, the kingdom will return to the dynasty of David. 27When these people go to Jerusalem to offer sacrifices at the Temple of the LORD, they will again give their allegiance to King Rehoboam of Judah. They will kill me and make him their king instead.”

28So on the advice of his counselors, the king made two gold calves. He said to the people,[*] “It is too much trouble for you to worship in Jerusalem. Look, Israel, these are the gods who brought you out of Egypt!”

29He placed these calf idols in Bethel and in Dan—at either end of his kingdom. 30But this became a great sin, for the people worshiped the idols, traveling as far north as Dan to worship the one there.

31Jeroboam also erected buildings at the pagan shrines and ordained priests from the common people—those who were not from the priestly tribe of Levi. 32And Jeroboam instituted a religious festival in Bethel, held on the fifteenth day of the eighth month,[*] in imitation of the annual Festival of Shelters in Judah. There at Bethel he himself offered sacrifices to the calves he had made, and he appointed priests for the pagan shrines he had made. 33So on the fifteenth day of the eighth month, a day that he himself had designated, Jeroboam offered sacrifices on the altar at Bethel. He instituted a religious festival for Israel, and he went up to the altar to burn incense.

1 Kings 16

1This message from the LORD was delivered to King Baasha by the prophet Jehu son of Hanani: 2“I lifted you out of the dust to make you ruler of my people Israel, but you have followed the evil example of Jeroboam. You have provoked my anger by causing my people Israel to sin. 3So now I will destroy you and your family, just as I destroyed the descendants of Jeroboam son of Nebat. 4The members of Baasha’s family who die in the city will be eaten by dogs, and those who die in the field will be eaten by vultures.”

5The rest of the events in Baasha’s reign and the extent of his power are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. 6When Baasha died, he was buried in Tirzah. Then his son Elah became the next king.

7The message from the LORD against Baasha and his family came through the prophet Jehu son of Hanani. It was delivered because Baasha had done what was evil in the LORD’s sight (just as the family of Jeroboam had done), and also because Baasha had destroyed the family of Jeroboam. The LORD’s anger was provoked by Baasha’s sins.

ELAH RULES IN ISRAEL

8Elah son of Baasha began to rule over Israel in the twenty-sixth year of King Asa’s reign in Judah. He reigned in the city of Tirzah for two years.

9Then Zimri, who commanded half of the royal chariots, made plans to kill him. One day in Tirzah, Elah was getting drunk at the home of Arza, the supervisor of the palace. 10Zimri walked in and struck him down and killed him. This happened in the twenty-seventh year of King Asa’s reign in Judah. Then Zimri became the next king.

11Zimri immediately killed the entire royal family of Baasha, leaving him not even a single male child. He even destroyed distant relatives and friends. 12So Zimri destroyed the dynasty of Baasha as the LORD had promised through the prophet Jehu. 13This happened because of all the sins Baasha and his son Elah had committed, and because of the sins they led Israel to commit. They provoked the anger of the LORD, the God of Israel, with their worthless idols.

14The rest of the events in Elah’s reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel.

ZIMRI RULES IN ISRAEL

15Zimri began to rule over Israel in the twenty-seventh year of King Asa’s reign in Judah, but his reign in Tirzah lasted only seven days. The army of Israel was then attacking the Philistine town of Gibbethon. 16When they heard that Zimri had committed treason and had assassinated the king, that very day they chose Omri, commander of the army, as the new king of Israel. 17So Omri led the entire army of Israel up from Gibbethon to attack Tirzah, Israel’s capital. 18When Zimri saw that the city had been taken, he went into the citadel of the palace and burned it down over himself and died in the flames. 19For he, too, had done what was evil in the LORD’s sight. He followed the example of Jeroboam in all the sins he had committed and led Israel to commit.

20The rest of the events in Zimri’s reign and his conspiracy are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel.

OMRI RULES IN ISRAEL

21But now the people of Israel were split into two factions. Half the people tried to make Tibni son of Ginath their king, while the other half supported Omri. 22But Omri’s supporters defeated the supporters of Tibni. So Tibni was killed, and Omri became the next king.

23Omri began to rule over Israel in the thirty-first year of King Asa’s reign in Judah. He reigned twelve years in all, six of them in Tirzah. 24Then Omri bought the hill now known as Samaria from its owner, Shemer, for 150 pounds of silver.[*] He built a city on it and called the city Samaria in honor of Shemer.

25But Omri did what was evil in the LORD’s sight, even more than any of the kings before him. 26He followed the example of Jeroboam son of Nebat in all the sins he had committed and led Israel to commit. The people provoked the anger of the LORD, the God of Israel, with their worthless idols.

27The rest of the events in Omri’s reign, the extent of his power, and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. 28When Omri died, he was buried in Samaria. Then his son Ahab became the next king.

SAMARIA

AHAB RULES IN ISRAEL

29Ahab son of Omri began to rule over Israel in the thirty-eighth year of King Asa’s reign in Judah. He reigned in Samaria twenty-two years. 30But Ahab son of Omri did what was evil in the LORD’s sight, even more than any of the kings before him. 31And as though it were not enough to follow the sinful example of Jeroboam, he married Jezebel, the daughter of King Ethbaal of the Sidonians, and he began to bow down in worship of Baal. 32First Ahab built a temple and an altar for Baal in Samaria. 33Then he set up an Asherah pole. He did more to provoke the anger of the LORD, the God of Israel, than any of the other kings of Israel before him.

34It was during his reign that Hiel, a man from Bethel, rebuilt Jericho. When he laid its foundations, it cost him the life of his oldest son, Abiram. And when he completed it and set up its gates, it cost him the life of his youngest son, Segub.[*] This all happened according to the message from the LORD concerning Jericho spoken by Joshua son of Nun.

1 Kings 17

ELIJAH FED BY RAVENS

1Now Elijah, who was from Tishbe in Gilead, told King Ahab, “As surely as the LORD, the God of Israel, lives—the God I serve—there will be no dew or rain during the next few years until I give the word!”

2Then the LORD said to Elijah, 3“Go to the east and hide by Kerith Brook, near where it enters the Jordan River. 4Drink from the brook and eat what the ravens bring you, for I have commanded them to bring you food.”

5So Elijah did as the LORD told him and camped beside Kerith Brook, east of the Jordan. 6The ravens brought him bread and meat each morning and evening, and he drank from the brook. 7But after a while the brook dried up, for there was no rainfall anywhere in the land.

THE WIDOW AT ZAREPHATH

8Then the LORD said to Elijah, 9“Go and live in the village of Zarephath, near the city of Sidon. I have instructed a widow there to feed you.”

10So he went to Zarephath. As he arrived at the gates of the village, he saw a widow gathering sticks, and he asked her, “Would you please bring me a little water in a cup?” 11As she was going to get it, he called to her, “Bring me a bite of bread, too.”

12But she said, “I swear by the LORD your God that I don’t have a single piece of bread in the house. And I have only a handful of flour left in the jar and a little cooking oil in the bottom of the jug. I was just gathering a few sticks to cook this last meal, and then my son and I will die.”

13But Elijah said to her, “Don’t be afraid! Go ahead and do just what you’ve said, but make a little bread for me first. Then use what’s left to prepare a meal for yourself and your son. 14For this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: There will always be flour and olive oil left in your containers until the time when the LORD sends rain and the crops grow again!”

15So she did as Elijah said, and she and Elijah and her family continued to eat for many days. 16There was always enough flour and olive oil left in the containers, just as the LORD had promised through Elijah.

HEALING 1 KINGS 17:17-24

17Some time later the woman’s son became sick. He grew worse and worse, and finally he died. 18Then she said to Elijah, “O man of God, what have you done to me? Have you come here to point out my sins and kill my son?”

19But Elijah replied, “Give me your son.” And he took the child’s body from her arms, carried him up the stairs to the room where he was staying, and laid the body on his bed. 20Then Elijah cried out to the LORD, “O LORD my God, why have you brought tragedy to this widow who has opened her home to me, causing her son to die?”

21And he stretched himself out over the child three times and cried out to the LORD, “O LORD my God, please let this child’s life return to him.” 22The LORD heard Elijah’s prayer, and the life of the child returned, and he revived! 23Then Elijah brought him down from the upper room and gave him to his mother. “Look!” he said. “Your son is alive!”

24Then the woman told Elijah, “Now I know for sure that you are a man of God, and that the LORD truly speaks through you.”

2 Kings

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   25

2 Kings 17

HOSHEA RULES IN ISRAEL

1Hoshea son of Elah began to rule over Israel in the twelfth year of King Ahaz’s reign in Judah. He reigned in Samaria nine years. 2He did what was evil in the LORD’s sight, but not to the same extent as the kings of Israel who ruled before him.

3King Shalmaneser of Assyria attacked King Hoshea, so Hoshea was forced to pay heavy tribute to Assyria. 4But Hoshea stopped paying the annual tribute and conspired against the king of Assyria by asking King So of Egypt[*] to help him shake free of Assyria’s power. When the king of Assyria discovered this treachery, he seized Hoshea and put him in prison.

SAMARIA FALLS TO ASSYRIA

5Then the king of Assyria invaded the entire land, and for three years he besieged the city of Samaria. 6Finally, in the ninth year of King Hoshea’s reign, Samaria fell, and the people of Israel were exiled to Assyria. They were settled in colonies in Halah, along the banks of the Habor River in Gozan, and in the cities of the Medes.

7This disaster came upon the people of Israel because they worshiped other gods. They sinned against the LORD their God, who had brought them safely out of Egypt and had rescued them from the power of Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. 8They had followed the practices of the pagan nations the LORD had driven from the land ahead of them, as well as the practices the kings of Israel had introduced. 9The people of Israel had also secretly done many things that were not pleasing to the LORD their God. They built pagan shrines for themselves in all their towns, from the smallest outpost to the largest walled city. 10They set up sacred pillars and Asherah poles at the top of every hill and under every green tree. 11They offered sacrifices on all the hilltops, just like the nations the LORD had driven from the land ahead of them. So the people of Israel had done many evil things, arousing the LORD’s anger. 12Yes, they worshiped idols,[*] despite the LORD’s specific and repeated warnings.

13Again and again the LORD had sent his prophets and seers to warn both Israel and Judah: “Turn from all your evil ways. Obey my commands and decrees—the entire law that I commanded your ancestors to obey, and that I gave you through my servants the prophets.”

14But the Israelites would not listen. They were as stubborn as their ancestors who had refused to believe in the LORD their God. 15They rejected his decrees and the covenant he had made with their ancestors, and they despised all his warnings. They worshiped worthless idols, so they became worthless themselves. They followed the example of the nations around them, disobeying the LORD’s command not to imitate them.

16They rejected all the commands of the LORD their God and made two calves from metal. They set up an Asherah pole and worshiped Baal and all the forces of heaven. 17They even sacrificed their own sons and daughters in the fire.[*] They consulted fortune-tellers and practiced sorcery and sold themselves to evil, arousing the LORD’s anger.

18Because the LORD was very angry with Israel, he swept them away from his presence. Only the tribe of Judah remained in the land. 19But even the people of Judah refused to obey the commands of the LORD their God, for they followed the evil practices that Israel had introduced. 20The LORD rejected all the descendants of Israel. He punished them by handing them over to their attackers until he had banished Israel from his presence.

21For when the LORD[*] tore Israel away from the kingdom of David, they chose Jeroboam son of Nebat as their king. But Jeroboam drew Israel away from following the LORD and made them commit a great sin. 22And the people of Israel persisted in all the evil ways of Jeroboam. They did not turn from these sins 23until the LORD finally swept them away from his presence, just as all his prophets had warned. So Israel was exiled from their land to Assyria, where they remain to this day.

FOREIGNERS SETTLE IN ISRAEL

24The king of Assyria transported groups of people from Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim and resettled them in the towns of Samaria, replacing the people of Israel. They took possession of Samaria and lived in its towns. 25But since these foreign settlers did not worship the LORD when they first arrived, the LORD sent lions among them, which killed some of them.

26So a message was sent to the king of Assyria: “The people you have sent to live in the towns of Samaria do not know the religious customs of the God of the land. He has sent lions among them to destroy them because they have not worshiped him correctly.”

27The king of Assyria then commanded, “Send one of the exiled priests back to Samaria. Let him live there and teach the new residents the religious customs of the God of the land.” 28So one of the priests who had been exiled from Samaria returned to Bethel and taught the new residents how to worship the LORD.

29But these various groups of foreigners also continued to worship their own gods. In town after town where they lived, they placed their idols at the pagan shrines that the people of Samaria had built. 30Those from Babylon worshiped idols of their god Succoth-benoth. Those from Cuthah worshiped their god Nergal. And those from Hamath worshiped Ashima. 31The Avvites worshiped their gods Nibhaz and Tartak. And the people from Sepharvaim even burned their own children as sacrifices to their gods Adrammelech and Anammelech.

32These new residents worshiped the LORD, but they also appointed from among themselves all sorts of people as priests to offer sacrifices at their places of worship. 33And though they worshiped the LORD, they continued to follow their own gods according to the religious customs of the nations from which they came. 34And this is still going on today. They continue to follow their former practices instead of truly worshiping the LORD and obeying the decrees, regulations, instructions, and commands he gave the descendants of Jacob, whose name he changed to Israel.

35For the LORD had made a covenant with the descendants of Jacob and commanded them: “Do not worship any other gods or bow before them or serve them or offer sacrifices to them. 36But worship only the LORD, who brought you out of Egypt with great strength and a powerful arm. Bow down to him alone, and offer sacrifices only to him. 37Be careful at all times to obey the decrees, regulations, instructions, and commands that he wrote for you. You must not worship other gods. 38Do not forget the covenant I made with you, and do not worship other gods. 39You must worship only the LORD your God. He is the one who will rescue you from all your enemies.”

40But the people would not listen and continued to follow their former practices. 41So while these new residents worshiped the LORD, they also worshiped their idols. And to this day their descendants do the same.

1 Chronicles

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28   29

2 Chronicles

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28   29   30   31   32   33   34   35   36

2 Chronicles 24

JOASH REPAIRS THE TEMPLE

1Joash was seven years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem forty years. His mother was Zibiah from Beersheba. 2Joash did what was pleasing in the LORD’s sight throughout the lifetime of Jehoiada the priest. 3Jehoiada chose two wives for Joash, and he had sons and daughters.

4At one point Joash decided to repair and restore the Temple of the LORD. 5He summoned the priests and Levites and gave them these instructions: “Go to all the towns of Judah and collect the required annual offerings, so that we can repair the Temple of your God. Do not delay!” But the Levites did not act immediately.

6So the king called for Jehoiada the high priest and asked him, “Why haven’t you demanded that the Levites go out and collect the Temple taxes from the towns of Judah and from Jerusalem? Moses, the servant of the LORD, levied this tax on the community of Israel in order to maintain the Tabernacle of the Covenant.[*]”

7Over the years the followers of wicked Athaliah had broken into the Temple of God, and they had used all the dedicated things from the Temple of the LORD to worship the images of Baal.

8So now the king ordered a chest to be made and set outside the gate leading to the Temple of the LORD. 9Then a proclamation was sent throughout Judah and Jerusalem, telling the people to bring to the LORD the tax that Moses, the servant of God, had required of the Israelites in the wilderness. 10This pleased all the leaders and the people, and they gladly brought their money and filled the chest with it.

11Whenever the chest became full, the Levites would carry it to the king’s officials. Then the court secretary and an officer of the high priest would come and empty the chest and take it back to the Temple again. This went on day after day, and a large amount of money was collected. 12The king and Jehoiada gave the money to the construction supervisors, who hired masons and carpenters to restore the Temple of the LORD. They also hired metalworkers, who made articles of iron and bronze for the LORD’s Temple.

13The men in charge of the renovation worked hard and made steady progress. They restored the Temple of God according to its original design and strengthened it. 14When all the repairs were finished, they brought the remaining money to the king and Jehoiada. It was used to make various articles for the Temple of the LORD—articles for worship services and for burnt offerings, including ladles and other articles made of gold and silver. And the burnt offerings were sacrificed continually in the Temple of the LORD during the lifetime of Jehoiada the priest.

15Jehoiada lived to a very old age, finally dying at 130. 16He was buried among the kings in the City of David, because he had done so much good in Israel for God and his Temple.

JEHOIADA’S REFORMS REVERSED

17But after Jehoiada’s death, the leaders of Judah came and bowed before King Joash and persuaded him to listen to their advice. 18They decided to abandon the Temple of the LORD, the God of their ancestors, and they worshiped Asherah poles and idols instead! Because of this sin, divine anger fell on Judah and Jerusalem. 19Yet the LORD sent prophets to bring them back to him. The prophets warned them, but still the people would not listen.

20Then the Spirit of God came upon Zechariah son of Jehoiada the priest. He stood before the people and said, “This is what God says: Why do you disobey the LORD’s commands and keep yourselves from prospering? You have abandoned the LORD, and now he has abandoned you!”

21Then the leaders plotted to kill Zechariah, and King Joash ordered that they stone him to death in the courtyard of the LORD’s Temple. 22That was how King Joash repaid Jehoiada for his loyalty—by killing his son. Zechariah’s last words as he died were, “May the LORD see what they are doing and avenge my death!”

THE END OF JOASH’S REIGN

23In the spring of the year[*] the Aramean army marched against Joash. They invaded Judah and Jerusalem and killed all the leaders of the nation. Then they sent all the plunder back to their king in Damascus. 24Although the Arameans attacked with only a small army, the LORD helped them conquer the much larger army of Judah. The people of Judah had abandoned the LORD, the God of their ancestors, so judgment was carried out against Joash.

25The Arameans withdrew, leaving Joash severely wounded. But his own officials plotted to kill him for murdering the son[*] of Jehoiada the priest. They assassinated him as he lay in bed. Then he was buried in the City of David, but not in the royal cemetery. 26The assassins were Jozacar,[*] the son of an Ammonite woman named Shimeath, and Jehozabad, the son of a Moabite woman named Shomer.[*]

27The account of the sons of Joash, the prophecies about him, and the record of his restoration of the Temple of God are written in The Commentary on the Book of the Kings. His son Amaziah became the next king.

Ezra

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10

JESUS’ FAMILY EZRA 3:1-13

Ezra 3

THE ALTAR IS REBUILT

1In early autumn,[*] when the Israelites had settled in their towns, all the people assembled in Jerusalem with a unified purpose. 2Then Jeshua son of Jehozadak[*] joined his fellow priests and Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel with his family in rebuilding the altar of the God of Israel. They wanted to sacrifice burnt offerings on it, as instructed in the Law of Moses, the man of God. 3Even though the people were afraid of the local residents, they rebuilt the altar at its old site. Then they began to sacrifice burnt offerings on the altar to the LORD each morning and evening.

4They celebrated the Festival of Shelters as prescribed in the Law, sacrificing the number of burnt offerings specified for each day of the festival. 5They also offered the regular burnt offerings and the offerings required for the new moon celebrations and the annual festivals as prescribed by the LORD. The people also gave voluntary offerings to the LORD. 6Fifteen days before the Festival of Shelters began,[*] the priests had begun to sacrifice burnt offerings to the LORD. This was even before they had started to lay the foundation of the LORD’s Temple.

THE PEOPLE BEGIN TO REBUILD THE TEMPLE

7Then the people hired masons and carpenters and bought cedar logs from the people of Tyre and Sidon, paying them with food, wine, and olive oil. The logs were brought down from the Lebanon mountains and floated along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea[*] to Joppa, for King Cyrus had given permission for this.

8The construction of the Temple of God began in midspring,[*] during the second year after they arrived in Jerusalem. The work force was made up of everyone who had returned from exile, including Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, Jeshua son of Jehozadak and his fellow priests, and all the Levites. The Levites who were twenty years old or older were put in charge of rebuilding the LORD’s Temple. 9The workers at the Temple of God were supervised by Jeshua with his sons and relatives, and Kadmiel and his sons, all descendants of Hodaviah.[*] They were helped in this task by the Levites of the family of Henadad.

10When the builders completed the foundation of the LORD’s Temple, the priests put on their robes and took their places to blow their trumpets. And the Levites, descendants of Asaph, clashed their cymbals to praise the LORD, just as King David had prescribed. 11With praise and thanks, they sang this song to the LORD:

“He is so good!

His faithful love for Israel endures forever!”

Then all the people gave a great shout, praising the LORD because the foundation of the LORD’s Temple had been laid.

12But many of the older priests, Levites, and other leaders who had seen the first Temple wept aloud when they saw the new Temple’s foundation. The others, however, were shouting for joy. 13The joyful shouting and weeping mingled together in a loud noise that could be heard far in the distance.

Nehemiah

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13

Esther

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10

Job

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28   29   30   31   32   33   34   35   36   37   38   39   40   41   42

Psalms

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28   29   30   31   32   33   34   35   36   37   38   39   40   41   42   43   44   45   46   47   48   49   50   51   52   53   54   55   56   57   58   59   60   61   62   63   64   65   66   67   68   69   70   71   72   73   74   75   76   77   78   79   80   81   82   83   84   85   86   87   88   89   90   91   92   93   94   95   96   97   98   99   100   101   102   103   104   105   106   107   108   109   110   111   112   113   114   115   116   117   118   119   120   121   122   123   124   125   126   127   128   129   130   131   132   133   134   135   136   137   138   139   140   141   142   143   144   145   146   147   148   149   150

Proverbs

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28   29   30   31

Ecclesiastes

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12

Song of Songs

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8

Isaiah

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28   29   30   31   32   33   34   35   36   37   38   39   40   41   42   43   44   45   46   47   48   49   50   51   52   53   54   55   56   57   58   59   60   61   62   63   64   65   66

THE MESSIAH ISAIAH 11:1-10

Isaiah 11

A BRANCH FROM DAVID’S LINE

1Out of the stump of David’s family[*] will grow a shoot—

yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root.

2And the Spirit of the LORD will rest on him—

the Spirit of wisdom and understanding,

the Spirit of counsel and might,

the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD.

3He will delight in obeying the LORD.

He will not judge by appearance

nor make a decision based on hearsay.

4He will give justice to the poor

and make fair decisions for the exploited.

The earth will shake at the force of his word,

and one breath from his mouth will destroy the wicked.

5He will wear righteousness like a belt

and truth like an undergarment.

6In that day the wolf and the lamb will live together;

the leopard will lie down with the baby goat.

The calf and the yearling will be safe with the lion,

and a little child will lead them all.

7The cow will graze near the bear.

The cub and the calf will lie down together.

The lion will eat hay like a cow.

8The baby will play safely near the hole of a cobra.

Yes, a little child will put its hand in a nest of deadly snakes without harm.

9Nothing will hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain,

for as the waters fill the sea,

so the earth will be filled with people who know the LORD.

10In that day the heir to David’s throne[*]

will be a banner of salvation to all the world.

The nations will rally to him,

and the land where he lives will be a glorious place.[*]

11In that day the Lord will reach out his hand a second time

to bring back the remnant of his people—

those who remain in Assyria and northern Egypt;

in southern Egypt, Ethiopia,[*] and Elam;

in Babylonia,[*] Hamath, and all the distant coastlands.

12He will raise a flag among the nations

and assemble the exiles of Israel.

He will gather the scattered people of Judah

from the ends of the earth.

13Then at last the jealousy between Israel[*] and Judah will end.

They will not be rivals anymore.

14They will join forces to swoop down on Philistia to the west.

Together they will attack and plunder the nations to the east.

They will occupy the lands of Edom and Moab,

and Ammon will obey them.

15The LORD will make a dry path through the gulf of the Red Sea.[*]

He will wave his hand over the Euphrates River,[*]

sending a mighty wind to divide it into seven streams

so it can easily be crossed on foot.

16He will make a highway for the remnant of his people,

the remnant coming from Assyria,

just as he did for Israel long ago

when they returned from Egypt.

Jeremiah

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28   29   30   31   32   33   34   35   36   37   38   39   40   41   42   43   44   45   46   47   48   49   50   51   52

Jeremiah 52

THE FALL OF JERUSALEM

1Zedekiah was twenty-one years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eleven years. His mother was Hamutal, the daughter of Jeremiah from Libnah. 2But Zedekiah did what was evil in the LORD’s sight, just as Jehoiakim had done. 3These things happened because of the LORD’s anger against the people of Jerusalem and Judah, until he finally banished them from his presence and sent them into exile.

Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon. 4So on January 15,[*] during the ninth year of Zedekiah’s reign, King Nebuchadnezzar[*] of Babylon led his entire army against Jerusalem. They surrounded the city and built siege ramps against its walls. 5Jerusalem was kept under siege until the eleventh year of King Zedekiah’s reign.

6By July 18 in the eleventh year of Zedekiah’s reign,[*] the famine in the city had become very severe, and the last of the food was entirely gone. 7Then a section of the city wall was broken down, and all the soldiers fled. Since the city was surrounded by the Babylonians,[*] they waited for nightfall. Then they slipped through the gate between the two walls behind the king’s garden and headed toward the Jordan Valley.[*]

8But the Babylonian troops chased King Zedekiah and overtook him on the plains of Jericho, for his men had all deserted him and scattered. 9They captured the king and took him to the king of Babylon at Riblah in the land of Hamath. There the king of Babylon pronounced judgment upon Zedekiah. 10The king of Babylon made Zedekiah watch as he slaughtered his sons. He also slaughtered all the officials of Judah at Riblah. 11Then he gouged out Zedekiah’s eyes and bound him in bronze chains, and the king of Babylon led him away to Babylon. Zedekiah remained there in prison until the day of his death.

THE TEMPLE DESTROYED

12On August 17 of that year,[*] which was the nineteenth year of King Nebuchadnezzar’s reign, Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard and an official of the Babylonian king, arrived in Jerusalem. 13He burned down the Temple of the LORD, the royal palace, and all the houses of Jerusalem. He destroyed all the important buildings[*] in the city. 14Then he supervised the entire Babylonian[*] army as they tore down the walls of Jerusalem on every side. 15Then Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, took as exiles some of the poorest of the people, the rest of the people who remained in the city, the defectors who had declared their allegiance to the king of Babylon, and the rest of the craftsmen. 16But Nebuzaradan allowed some of the poorest people to stay behind to care for the vineyards and fields.

17The Babylonians broke up the bronze pillars in front of the LORD’s Temple, the bronze water carts, and the great bronze basin called the Sea, and they carried all the bronze away to Babylon. 18They also took all the ash buckets, shovels, lamp snuffers, basins, dishes, and all the other bronze articles used for making sacrifices at the Temple. 19The captain of the guard also took the small bowls, incense burners, basins, pots, lampstands, ladles, bowls used for liquid offerings, and all the other articles made of pure gold or silver.

20The weight of the bronze from the two pillars, the Sea with the twelve bronze oxen beneath it, and the water carts was too great to be measured. These things had been made for the LORD’s Temple in the days of King Solomon. 21Each of the pillars was 27 feet tall and 18 feet in circumference.[*] They were hollow, with walls 3 inches thick.[*] 22The bronze capital on top of each pillar was 7^1/2 feet[*] high and was decorated with a network of bronze pomegranates all the way around. 23There were 96 pomegranates on the sides, and a total of 100 pomegranates on the network around the top.

24Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, took with him as prisoners Seraiah the high priest, Zephaniah the priest of the second rank, and the three chief gatekeepers. 25And from among the people still hiding in the city, he took an officer who had been in charge of the Judean army; seven of the king’s personal advisers; the army commander’s chief secretary, who was in charge of recruitment; and sixty other citizens. 26Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, took them all to the king of Babylon at Riblah. 27And there at Riblah, in the land of Hamath, the king of Babylon had them all put to death. So the people of Judah were sent into exile from their land.

28The number of captives taken to Babylon in the seventh year of Nebuchadnezzar’s reign[*] was 3,023. 29Then in Nebuchadnezzar’s eighteenth year[*] he took 832 more. 30In Nebuchadnezzar’s twenty-third year[*] he sent Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, who took 745 more—a total of 4,600 captives in all.

HOPE FOR ISRAEL’S ROYAL LINE

31In the thirty-seventh year of the exile of King Jehoiachin of Judah, Evil-merodach ascended to the Babylonian throne. He was kind to[*] Jehoiachin and released him from prison on March 31 of that year.[*] 32He spoke kindly to Jehoiachin and gave him a higher place than all the other exiled kings in Babylon. 33He supplied Jehoiachin with new clothes to replace his prison garb and allowed him to dine in the king’s presence for the rest of his life. 34So the Babylonian king gave him a regular food allowance as long as he lived. This continued until the day of his death.

Lamentations

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5

Ezekiel

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28   29   30   31   32   33   34   35   36   37   38   39   40   41   42   43   44   45   46   47   48

Ezekiel 37

A VALLEY OF DRY BONES

1The LORD took hold of me, and I was carried away by the Spirit of the LORD to a valley filled with bones. 2He led me all around among the bones that covered the valley floor. They were scattered everywhere across the ground and were completely dried out. 3Then he asked me, “Son of man, can these bones become living people again?”

“O Sovereign LORD,” I replied, “you alone know the answer to that.”

4Then he said to me, “Speak a prophetic message to these bones and say, ‘Dry bones, listen to the word of the LORD! 5This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Look! I am going to put breath into you and make you live again! 6I will put flesh and muscles on you and cover you with skin. I will put breath into you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the LORD.’”

7So I spoke this message, just as he told me. Suddenly as I spoke, there was a rattling noise all across the valley. The bones of each body came together and attached themselves as complete skeletons. 8Then as I watched, muscles and flesh formed over the bones. Then skin formed to cover their bodies, but they still had no breath in them.

9Then he said to me, “Speak a prophetic message to the winds, son of man. Speak a prophetic message and say, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Come, O breath, from the four winds! Breathe into these dead bodies so they may live again.’”

10So I spoke the message as he commanded me, and breath came into their bodies. They all came to life and stood up on their feet—a great army.

11Then he said to me, “Son of man, these bones represent the people of Israel. They are saying, ‘We have become old, dry bones—all hope is gone. Our nation is finished.’ 12Therefore, prophesy to them and say, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: O my people, I will open your graves of exile and cause you to rise again. Then I will bring you back to the land of Israel. 13When this happens, O my people, you will know that I am the LORD. 14I will put my Spirit in you, and you will live again and return home to your own land. Then you will know that I, the LORD, have spoken, and I have done what I said. Yes, the LORD has spoken!’”

REUNION OF ISRAEL AND JUDAH

15Again a message came to me from the LORD: 16“Son of man, take a piece of wood and carve on it these words: ‘This represents Judah and its allied tribes.’ Then take another piece and carve these words on it: ‘This represents Ephraim and the northern tribes of Israel.’[*] 17Now hold them together in your hand as if they were one piece of wood. 18When your people ask you what your actions mean, 19say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will take Ephraim and the northern tribes and join them to Judah. I will make them one piece of wood in my hand.’

20“Then hold out the pieces of wood you have inscribed, so the people can see them. 21And give them this message from the Sovereign LORD: I will gather the people of Israel from among the nations. I will bring them home to their own land from the places where they have been scattered. 22I will unify them into one nation on the mountains of Israel. One king will rule them all; no longer will they be divided into two nations or into two kingdoms. 23They will never again pollute themselves with their idols[*] and vile images and rebellion, for I will save them from their sinful apostasy.[*] I will cleanse them. Then they will truly be my people, and I will be their God.

24“My servant David will be their king, and they will have only one shepherd. They will obey my regulations and be careful to keep my decrees. 25They will live in the land I gave my servant Jacob, the land where their ancestors lived. They and their children and their grandchildren after them will live there forever, generation after generation. And my servant David will be their prince forever. 26And I will make a covenant of peace with them, an everlasting covenant. I will give them their land and increase their numbers,[*] and I will put my Temple among them forever. 27I will make my home among them. I will be their God, and they will be my people. 28And when my Temple is among them forever, the nations will know that I am the LORD, who makes Israel holy.”

Daniel

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12

ANGELS DANIEL 6:1-28

Daniel 6

DANIEL IN THE LIONS’ DEN

1[*]Darius the Mede decided to divide the kingdom into 120 provinces, and he appointed a high officer to rule over each province. 2The king also chose Daniel and two others as administrators to supervise the high officers and protect the king’s interests. 3Daniel soon proved himself more capable than all the other administrators and high officers. Because of Daniel’s great ability, the king made plans to place him over the entire empire.

4Then the other administrators and high officers began searching for some fault in the way Daniel was handling government affairs, but they couldn’t find anything to criticize or condemn. He was faithful, always responsible, and completely trustworthy. 5So they concluded, “Our only chance of finding grounds for accusing Daniel will be in connection with the rules of his religion.”

6So the administrators and high officers went to the king and said, “Long live King Darius! 7We are all in agreement—we administrators, officials, high officers, advisers, and governors—that the king should make a law that will be strictly enforced. Give orders that for the next thirty days any person who prays to anyone, divine or human—except to you, Your Majesty—will be thrown into the den of lions. 8And now, Your Majesty, issue and sign this law so it cannot be changed, an official law of the Medes and Persians that cannot be revoked.” 9So King Darius signed the law.

10But when Daniel learned that the law had been signed, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs room, with its windows open toward Jerusalem. He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God. 11Then the officials went together to Daniel’s house and found him praying and asking for God’s help. 12So they went straight to the king and reminded him about his law. “Did you not sign a law that for the next thirty days any person who prays to anyone, divine or human—except to you, Your Majesty—will be thrown into the den of lions?”

“Yes,” the king replied, “that decision stands; it is an official law of the Medes and Persians that cannot be revoked.”

13Then they told the king, “That man Daniel, one of the captives from Judah, is ignoring you and your law. He still prays to his God three times a day.”

14Hearing this, the king was deeply troubled, and he tried to think of a way to save Daniel. He spent the rest of the day looking for a way to get Daniel out of this predicament.

15In the evening the men went together to the king and said, “Your Majesty, you know that according to the law of the Medes and the Persians, no law that the king signs can be changed.”

16So at last the king gave orders for Daniel to be arrested and thrown into the den of lions. The king said to him, “May your God, whom you serve so faithfully, rescue you.”

17A stone was brought and placed over the mouth of the den. The king sealed the stone with his own royal seal and the seals of his nobles, so that no one could rescue Daniel. 18Then the king returned to his palace and spent the night fasting. He refused his usual entertainment and couldn’t sleep at all that night.

19Very early the next morning, the king got up and hurried out to the lions’ den. 20When he got there, he called out in anguish, “Daniel, servant of the living God! Was your God, whom you serve so faithfully, able to rescue you from the lions?”

21Daniel answered, “Long live the king! 22My God sent his angel to shut the lions’ mouths so that they would not hurt me, for I have been found innocent in his sight. And I have not wronged you, Your Majesty.”

23The king was overjoyed and ordered that Daniel be lifted from the den. Not a scratch was found on him, for he had trusted in his God.

24Then the king gave orders to arrest the men who had maliciously accused Daniel. He had them thrown into the lions’ den, along with their wives and children. The lions leaped on them and tore them apart before they even hit the floor of the den.

25Then King Darius sent this message to the people of every race and nation and language throughout the world:

“Peace and prosperity to you!

26“I decree that everyone throughout my kingdom should tremble with fear before the God of Daniel.

For he is the living God,

and he will endure forever.

His kingdom will never be destroyed,

and his rule will never end.

27He rescues and saves his people;

he performs miraculous signs and wonders

in the heavens and on earth.

He has rescued Daniel

from the power of the lions.”

28So Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian.[*]

Hosea

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14

Joel

Introduction   1   2   3

Amos

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9

Obadiah

Introduction   1

Jonah

Introduction   1   2   3   4

Jonah 1

JONAH RUNS FROM THE LORD

1The LORD gave this message to Jonah son of Amittai: 2“Get up and go to the great city of Nineveh. Announce my judgment against it because I have seen how wicked its people are.”

JOPPA

TARSHISH

3But Jonah got up and went in the opposite direction to get away from the LORD. He went down to the port of Joppa, where he found a ship leaving for Tarshish. He bought a ticket and went on board, hoping to escape from the LORD by sailing to Tarshish.

4But the LORD hurled a powerful wind over the sea, causing a violent storm that threatened to break the ship apart. 5Fearing for their lives, the desperate sailors shouted to their gods for help and threw the cargo overboard to lighten the ship.

But all this time Jonah was sound asleep down in the hold. 6So the captain went down after him. “How can you sleep at a time like this?” he shouted. “Get up and pray to your god! Maybe he will pay attention to us and spare our lives.”

7Then the crew cast lots to see which of them had offended the gods and caused the terrible storm. When they did this, the lots identified Jonah as the culprit. 8“Why has this awful storm come down on us?” they demanded. “Who are you? What is your line of work? What country are you from? What is your nationality?”

9Jonah answered, “I am a Hebrew, and I worship the LORD, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the land.”

10The sailors were terrified when they heard this, for he had already told them he was running away from the LORD. “Oh, why did you do it?” they groaned. 11And since the storm was getting worse all the time, they asked him, “What should we do to you to stop this storm?”

12“Throw me into the sea,” Jonah said, “and it will become calm again. I know that this terrible storm is all my fault.”

13Instead, the sailors rowed even harder to get the ship to the land. But the stormy sea was too violent for them, and they couldn’t make it. 14Then they cried out to the LORD, Jonah’s God. “O LORD,” they pleaded, “don’t make us die for this man’s sin. And don’t hold us responsible for his death. O LORD, you have sent this storm upon him for your own good reasons.”

15Then the sailors picked Jonah up and threw him into the raging sea, and the storm stopped at once! 16The sailors were awestruck by the LORD’s great power, and they offered him a sacrifice and vowed to serve him.

17[*]Now the LORD had arranged for a great fish to swallow Jonah. And Jonah was inside the fish for three days and three nights.

Jonah 2

JONAH’S PRAYER

1[*]Then Jonah prayed to the LORD his God from inside the fish. 2He said,

“I cried out to the LORD in my great trouble,

and he answered me.

I called to you from the land of the dead,[*]

and LORD, you heard me!

3You threw me into the ocean depths,

and I sank down to the heart of the sea.

The mighty waters engulfed me;

I was buried beneath your wild and stormy waves.

4Then I said, ‘O LORD, you have driven me from your presence.

Yet I will look once more toward your holy Temple.’

5“I sank beneath the waves,

and the waters closed over me.

Seaweed wrapped itself around my head.

6I sank down to the very roots of the mountains.

I was imprisoned in the earth,

whose gates lock shut forever.

But you, O LORD my God,

snatched me from the jaws of death!

7As my life was slipping away,

I remembered the LORD.

And my earnest prayer went out to you

in your holy Temple.

8Those who worship false gods

turn their backs on all God’s mercies.

9But I will offer sacrifices to you with songs of praise,

and I will fulfill all my vows.

For my salvation comes from the LORD alone.”

10Then the LORD ordered the fish to spit Jonah out onto the beach.

Micah

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7

Nahum

Introduction   1   2   3

Habakkuk

Introduction   1   2   3

Zephaniah

Introduction   1   2   3

Haggai

Introduction   1   2

Zechariah

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14

Malachi

Introduction   1   2   3   4

Matthew

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28

Matthew 3

JOHN THE BAPTIST PREPARES THE WAY

1In those days John the Baptist came to the Judean wilderness and began preaching. His message was, 2“Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.[*]” 3The prophet Isaiah was speaking about John when he said,

“He is a voice shouting in the wilderness,

‘Prepare the way for the LORD’s coming!

Clear the road for him!’”[*]

4John’s clothes were woven from coarse camel hair, and he wore a leather belt around his waist. For food he ate locusts and wild honey. 5People from Jerusalem and from all of Judea and all over the Jordan Valley went out to see and hear John. 6And when they confessed their sins, he baptized them in the Jordan River.

7But when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming to watch him baptize,[*] he denounced them. “You brood of snakes!” he exclaimed. “Who warned you to flee God’s coming wrath? 8Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God. 9Don’t just say to each other, ‘We’re safe, for we are descendants of Abraham.’ That means nothing, for I tell you, God can create children of Abraham from these very stones. 10Even now the ax of God’s judgment is poised, ready to sever the roots of the trees. Yes, every tree that does not produce good fruit will be chopped down and thrown into the fire.

11“I baptize with[*] water those who repent of their sins and turn to God. But someone is coming soon who is greater than I am—so much greater that I’m not worthy even to be his slave and carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.[*] 12He is ready to separate the chaff from the wheat with his winnowing fork. Then he will clean up the threshing area, gathering the wheat into his barn but burning the chaff with never-ending fire.”

BAPTISM IN THE JORDAN RIVER

THE BAPTISM OF JESUS

13Then Jesus went from Galilee to the Jordan River to be baptized by John. 14But John tried to talk him out of it. “I am the one who needs to be baptized by you,” he said, “so why are you coming to me?”

15But Jesus said, “It should be done, for we must carry out all that God requires.[*]” So John agreed to baptize him.

16After his baptism, as Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened[*] and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on him. 17And a voice from heaven said, “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy.”

THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT

Matthew 5

THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT

1One day as he saw the crowds gathering, Jesus went up on the mountainside and sat down. His disciples gathered around him, 2and he began to teach them.

THE BEATITUDES

3“God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him,[*]

for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.

4God blesses those who mourn,

for they will be comforted.

5God blesses those who are humble,

for they will inherit the whole earth.

6God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice,[*]

for they will be satisfied.

7God blesses those who are merciful,

for they will be shown mercy.

8God blesses those whose hearts are pure,

for they will see God.

9God blesses those who work for peace,

for they will be called the children of God.

10God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right,

for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.

11“God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. 12Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.

TEACHING ABOUT SALT AND LIGHT

13“You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.

14“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. 15No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. 16In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

TEACHING ABOUT THE LAW

17“Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose. 18I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved. 19So if you ignore the least commandment and teach others to do the same, you will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But anyone who obeys God’s laws and teaches them will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven.

20“But I warn you—unless your righteousness is better than the righteousness of the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven!

TEACHING ABOUT ANGER

21“You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’[*] 22But I say, if you are even angry with someone,[*] you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot,[*] you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone,[*] you are in danger of the fires of hell.[*]

23“So if you are presenting a sacrifice[*] at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, 24leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God.

25“When you are on the way to court with your adversary, settle your differences quickly. Otherwise, your accuser may hand you over to the judge, who will hand you over to an officer, and you will be thrown into prison. 26And if that happens, you surely won’t be free again until you have paid the last penny.[*]

TEACHING ABOUT ADULTERY

27“You have heard the commandment that says, ‘You must not commit adultery.’[*] 28But I say, anyone who even looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29So if your eye—even your good eye[*]—causes you to lust, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30And if your hand—even your stronger hand[*]—causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.

TEACHING ABOUT DIVORCE

31“You have heard the law that says, ‘A man can divorce his wife by merely giving her a written notice of divorce.’[*] 32But I say that a man who divorces his wife, unless she has been unfaithful, causes her to commit adultery. And anyone who marries a divorced woman also commits adultery.

TEACHING ABOUT VOWS

33“You have also heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not break your vows; you must carry out the vows you make to the LORD.’[*] 34But I say, do not make any vows! Do not say, ‘By heaven!’ because heaven is God’s throne. 35And do not say, ‘By the earth!’ because the earth is his footstool. And do not say, ‘By Jerusalem!’ for Jerusalem is the city of the great King. 36Do not even say, ‘By my head!’ for you can’t turn one hair white or black. 37Just say a simple, ‘Yes, I will,’ or ‘No, I won’t.’ Anything beyond this is from the evil one.

TEACHING ABOUT REVENGE

38“You have heard the law that says the punishment must match the injury: ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.’[*] 39But I say, do not resist an evil person! If someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer the other cheek also. 40If you are sued in court and your shirt is taken from you, give your coat, too. 41If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile,[*] carry it two miles. 42Give to those who ask, and don’t turn away from those who want to borrow.

TEACHING ABOUT LOVE FOR ENEMIES

43“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’[*] and hate your enemy. 44But I say, love your enemies![*] Pray for those who persecute you! 45In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike. 46If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. 47If you are kind only to your friends,[*] how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. 48But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect.

Mark

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16

Mark 15

JESUS’ TRIAL BEFORE PILATE

1Very early in the morning the leading priests, the elders, and the teachers of religious law—the entire high council[*]—met to discuss their next step. They bound Jesus, led him away, and took him to Pilate, the Roman governor.

2Pilate asked Jesus, “Are you the king of the Jews?”

Jesus replied, “You have said it.”

3Then the leading priests kept accusing him of many crimes, 4and Pilate asked him, “Aren’t you going to answer them? What about all these charges they are bringing against you?” 5But Jesus said nothing, much to Pilate’s surprise.

6Now it was the governor’s custom each year during the Passover celebration to release one prisoner—anyone the people requested. 7One of the prisoners at that time was Barabbas, a revolutionary who had committed murder in an uprising. 8The crowd went to Pilate and asked him to release a prisoner as usual.

9“Would you like me to release to you this ‘King of the Jews’?” Pilate asked. 10(For he realized by now that the leading priests had arrested Jesus out of envy.) 11But at this point the leading priests stirred up the crowd to demand the release of Barabbas instead of Jesus. 12Pilate asked them, “Then what should I do with this man you call the king of the Jews?”

13They shouted back, “Crucify him!”

14“Why?” Pilate demanded. “What crime has he committed?”

But the mob roared even louder, “Crucify him!”

15So to pacify the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He ordered Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip, then turned him over to the Roman soldiers to be crucified.

THE SOLDIERS MOCK JESUS

16The soldiers took Jesus into the courtyard of the governor’s headquarters (called the Praetorium) and called out the entire regiment. 17They dressed him in a purple robe, and they wove thorn branches into a crown and put it on his head. 18Then they saluted him and taunted, “Hail! King of the Jews!” 19And they struck him on the head with a reed stick, spit on him, and dropped to their knees in mock worship. 20When they were finally tired of mocking him, they took off the purple robe and put his own clothes on him again. Then they led him away to be crucified.

GOLGOTHA

THE CRUCIFIXION

21A passerby named Simon, who was from Cyrene,[*] was coming in from the countryside just then, and the soldiers forced him to carry Jesus’ cross. (Simon was the father of Alexander and Rufus.) 22And they brought Jesus to a place called Golgotha (which means “Place of the Skull”). 23They offered him wine drugged with myrrh, but he refused it.

24Then the soldiers nailed him to the cross. They divided his clothes and threw dice[*] to decide who would get each piece. 25It was nine o’clock in the morning when they crucified him. 26A sign announced the charge against him. It read, “The King of the Jews.” 27Two revolutionaries[*] were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left.[*]

29The people passing by shouted abuse, shaking their heads in mockery. “Ha! Look at you now!” they yelled at him. “You said you were going to destroy the Temple and rebuild it in three days. 30Well then, save yourself and come down from the cross!”

31The leading priests and teachers of religious law also mocked Jesus. “He saved others,” they scoffed, “but he can’t save himself! 32Let this Messiah, this King of Israel, come down from the cross so we can see it and believe him!” Even the men who were crucified with Jesus ridiculed him.

THE DEATH OF JESUS

33At noon, darkness fell across the whole land until three o’clock. 34Then at three o’clock Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” which means “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”[*]

35Some of the bystanders misunderstood and thought he was calling for the prophet Elijah. 36One of them ran and filled a sponge with sour wine, holding it up to him on a reed stick so he could drink. “Wait!” he said. “Let’s see whether Elijah comes to take him down!”

37Then Jesus uttered another loud cry and breathed his last. 38And the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two, from top to bottom.

39When the Roman officer[*] who stood facing him[*] saw how he had died, he exclaimed, “This man truly was the Son of God!”

40Some women were there, watching from a distance, including Mary Magdalene, Mary (the mother of James the younger and of Joseph[*]), and Salome. 41They had been followers of Jesus and had cared for him while he was in Galilee. Many other women who had come with him to Jerusalem were also there.

ANCIENT BURIAL PRACTICES

THE BURIAL OF JESUS

42This all happened on Friday, the day of preparation,[*] the day before the Sabbath. As evening approached, 43Joseph of Arimathea took a risk and went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. (Joseph was an honored member of the high council, and he was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come.) 44Pilate couldn’t believe that Jesus was already dead, so he called for the Roman officer and asked if he had died yet. 45The officer confirmed that Jesus was dead, so Pilate told Joseph he could have the body. 46Joseph bought a long sheet of linen cloth. Then he took Jesus’ body down from the cross, wrapped it in the cloth, and laid it in a tomb that had been carved out of the rock. Then he rolled a stone in front of the entrance. 47Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joseph saw where Jesus’ body was laid.

Luke

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Luke 1

INTRODUCTION

1Many people have set out to write accounts about the events that have been fulfilled among us. 2They used the eyewitness reports circulating among us from the early disciples.[*] 3Having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I also have decided to write a careful account for you, most honorable Theophilus, 4so you can be certain of the truth of everything you were taught.

THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST FORETOLD

5When Herod was king of Judea, there was a Jewish priest named Zechariah. He was a member of the priestly order of Abijah, and his wife, Elizabeth, was also from the priestly line of Aaron. 6Zechariah and Elizabeth were righteous in God’s eyes, careful to obey all of the Lord’s commandments and regulations. 7They had no children because Elizabeth was unable to conceive, and they were both very old.

8One day Zechariah was serving God in the Temple, for his order was on duty that week. 9As was the custom of the priests, he was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary of the Lord and burn incense. 10While the incense was being burned, a great crowd stood outside, praying.

11While Zechariah was in the sanctuary, an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the incense altar. 12Zechariah was shaken and overwhelmed with fear when he saw him. 13But the angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John. 14You will have great joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, 15for he will be great in the eyes of the Lord. He must never touch wine or other alcoholic drinks. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even before his birth.[*] 16And he will turn many Israelites to the Lord their God. 17He will be a man with the spirit and power of Elijah. He will prepare the people for the coming of the Lord. He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children,[*] and he will cause those who are rebellious to accept the wisdom of the godly.”

18Zechariah said to the angel, “How can I be sure this will happen? I’m an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years.”

19Then the angel said, “I am Gabriel! I stand in the very presence of God. It was he who sent me to bring you this good news! 20But now, since you didn’t believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time.”

21Meanwhile, the people were waiting for Zechariah to come out of the sanctuary, wondering why he was taking so long. 22When he finally did come out, he couldn’t speak to them. Then they realized from his gestures and his silence that he must have seen a vision in the sanctuary.

23When Zechariah’s week of service in the Temple was over, he returned home. 24Soon afterward his wife, Elizabeth, became pregnant and went into seclusion for five months. 25“How kind the Lord is!” she exclaimed. “He has taken away my disgrace of having no children.”

THE MESSIAH LUKE 1:26-56

THE BIRTH OF JESUS FORETOLD

26In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, 27to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David. 28Gabriel appeared to her and said, “Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you![*]”

29Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. 30“Don’t be afraid, Mary,” the angel told her, “for you have found favor with God! 31You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus. 32He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David. 33And he will reign over Israel[*] forever; his Kingdom will never end!”

34Mary asked the angel, “But how can this happen? I am a virgin.”

35The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God. 36What’s more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she has conceived a son and is now in her sixth month. 37For the word of God will never fail.[*]”

38Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her.

MARY VISITS ELIZABETH

39A few days later Mary hurried to the hill country of Judea, to the town 40where Zechariah lived. She entered the house and greeted Elizabeth. 41At the sound of Mary’s greeting, Elizabeth’s child leaped within her, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.

42Elizabeth gave a glad cry and exclaimed to Mary, “God has blessed you above all women, and your child is blessed. 43Why am I so honored, that the mother of my Lord should visit me? 44When I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for joy. 45You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what he said.”

SONGS LUKE 1:46-55

THE MAGNIFICAT: MARY’S SONG OF PRAISE

46Mary responded,

“Oh, how my soul praises the Lord.

47How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!

48For he took notice of his lowly servant girl,

and from now on all generations will call me blessed.

49For the Mighty One is holy,

and he has done great things for me.

50He shows mercy from generation to generation

to all who fear him.

51His mighty arm has done tremendous things!

He has scattered the proud and haughty ones.

52He has brought down princes from their thrones

and exalted the humble.

53He has filled the hungry with good things

and sent the rich away with empty hands.

54He has helped his servant Israel

and remembered to be merciful.

55For he made this promise to our ancestors,

to Abraham and his children forever.”

56Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months and then went back to her own home.

SONGS LUKE 1:57-80

THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

57When it was time for Elizabeth’s baby to be born, she gave birth to a son. 58And when her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had been very merciful to her, everyone rejoiced with her.

59When the baby was eight days old, they all came for the circumcision ceremony. They wanted to name him Zechariah, after his father. 60But Elizabeth said, “No! His name is John!”

61“What?” they exclaimed. “There is no one in all your family by that name.” 62So they used gestures to ask the baby’s father what he wanted to name him. 63He motioned for a writing tablet, and to everyone’s surprise he wrote, “His name is John.” 64Instantly Zechariah could speak again, and he began praising God.

65Awe fell upon the whole neighborhood, and the news of what had happened spread throughout the Judean hills. 66Everyone who heard about it reflected on these events and asked, “What will this child turn out to be?” For the hand of the Lord was surely upon him in a special way.

ZECHARIAH’S PROPHECY

67Then his father, Zechariah, was filled with the Holy Spirit and gave this prophecy:

68“Praise the Lord, the God of Israel,

because he has visited and redeemed his people.

69He has sent us a mighty Savior[*]

from the royal line of his servant David,

70just as he promised

through his holy prophets long ago.

71Now we will be saved from our enemies

and from all who hate us.

72He has been merciful to our ancestors

by remembering his sacred covenant—

73the covenant he swore with an oath

to our ancestor Abraham.

74We have been rescued from our enemies

so we can serve God without fear,

75in holiness and righteousness

for as long as we live.

PROPHECIES OF THE MESSIAH

76“And you, my little son,

will be called the prophet of the Most High,

because you will prepare the way for the Lord.

77You will tell his people how to find salvation

through forgiveness of their sins.

78Because of God’s tender mercy,

the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us,[*]

79to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,

and to guide us to the path of peace.”

80John grew up and became strong in spirit. And he lived in the wilderness until he began his public ministry to Israel.

MARY AND JOSEPH’S JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM

Luke 2

THE BIRTH OF JESUS

1At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. 2(This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. 4And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David’s ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. 5He took with him Mary, his fiancée, who was now obviously pregnant.

6And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. 7She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.

THE SHEPHERDS AND ANGELS

8That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. 9Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, 10but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. 11The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! 12And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.”

13Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying,

14“Glory to God in highest heaven,

and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”

15When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

16They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. 17After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. 18All who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished, 19but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often. 20The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them.

JESUS IS PRESENTED IN THE TEMPLE

21Eight days later, when the baby was circumcised, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel even before he was conceived.

22Then it was time for their purification offering, as required by the law of Moses after the birth of a child; so his parents took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord. 23The law of the Lord says, “If a woman’s first child is a boy, he must be dedicated to the LORD.”[*] 24So they offered the sacrifice required in the law of the Lord—“either a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”[*]

SONGS LUKE 2:25-35

THE PROPHECY OF SIMEON

25At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him 26and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. 27That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, 28Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying,

29“Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace,

as you have promised.

30I have seen your salvation,

31which you have prepared for all people.

32He is a light to reveal God to the nations,

and he is the glory of your people Israel!”

33Jesus’ parents were amazed at what was being said about him. 34Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, but he will be a joy to many others. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. 35As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.”

THE PROPHECY OF ANNA

36Anna, a prophet, was also there in the Temple. She was the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher, and she was very old. Her husband died when they had been married only seven years. 37Then she lived as a widow to the age of eighty-four.[*] She never left the Temple but stayed there day and night, worshiping God with fasting and prayer. 38She came along just as Simeon was talking with Mary and Joseph, and she began praising God. She talked about the child to everyone who had been waiting expectantly for God to rescue Jerusalem.

39When Jesus’ parents had fulfilled all the requirements of the law of the Lord, they returned home to Nazareth in Galilee. 40There the child grew up healthy and strong. He was filled with wisdom, and God’s favor was on him.

JESUS SPEAKS WITH THE TEACHERS

41Every year Jesus’ parents went to Jerusalem for the Passover festival. 42When Jesus was twelve years old, they attended the festival as usual. 43After the celebration was over, they started home to Nazareth, but Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents didn’t miss him at first, 44because they assumed he was among the other travelers. But when he didn’t show up that evening, they started looking for him among their relatives and friends.

45When they couldn’t find him, they went back to Jerusalem to search for him there. 46Three days later they finally discovered him in the Temple, sitting among the religious teachers, listening to them and asking questions. 47All who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers.

48His parents didn’t know what to think. “Son,” his mother said to him, “why have you done this to us? Your father and I have been frantic, searching for you everywhere.”

49“But why did you need to search?” he asked. “Didn’t you know that I must be in my Father’s house?”[*] 50But they didn’t understand what he meant.

51Then he returned to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. And his mother stored all these things in her heart.

52Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people.

Luke 24

THE RESURRECTION

1But very early on Sunday morning[*] the women went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. 2They found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. 3So they went in, but they didn’t find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4As they stood there puzzled, two men suddenly appeared to them, clothed in dazzling robes.

5The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? 6He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee, 7that the Son of Man[*] must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day.”

8Then they remembered that he had said this. 9So they rushed back from the tomb to tell his eleven disciples—and everyone else—what had happened. 10It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and several other women who told the apostles what had happened. 11But the story sounded like nonsense to the men, so they didn’t believe it. 12However, Peter jumped up and ran to the tomb to look. Stooping, he peered in and saw the empty linen wrappings; then he went home again, wondering what had happened.

THE ROAD TO EMMAUS

THE WALK TO EMMAUS

13That same day two of Jesus’ followers were walking to the village of Emmaus, seven miles[*] from Jerusalem. 14As they walked along they were talking about everything that had happened. 15As they talked and discussed these things, Jesus himself suddenly came and began walking with them. 16But God kept them from recognizing him.

17He asked them, “What are you discussing so intently as you walk along?”

They stopped short, sadness written across their faces. 18Then one of them, Cleopas, replied, “You must be the only person in Jerusalem who hasn’t heard about all the things that have happened there the last few days.”

19“What things?” Jesus asked.

“The things that happened to Jesus, the man from Nazareth,” they said. “He was a prophet who did powerful miracles, and he was a mighty teacher in the eyes of God and all the people. 20But our leading priests and other religious leaders handed him over to be condemned to death, and they crucified him. 21We had hoped he was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel. This all happened three days ago.

22“Then some women from our group of his followers were at his tomb early this morning, and they came back with an amazing report. 23They said his body was missing, and they had seen angels who told them Jesus is alive! 24Some of our men ran out to see, and sure enough, his body was gone, just as the women had said.”

25Then Jesus said to them, “You foolish people! You find it so hard to believe all that the prophets wrote in the Scriptures. 26Wasn’t it clearly predicted that the Messiah would have to suffer all these things before entering his glory?” 27Then Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets, explaining from all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.

28By this time they were nearing Emmaus and the end of their journey. Jesus acted as if he were going on, 29but they begged him, “Stay the night with us, since it is getting late.” So he went home with them. 30As they sat down to eat,[*] he took the bread and blessed it. Then he broke it and gave it to them. 31Suddenly, their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And at that moment he disappeared!

32They said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?” 33And within the hour they were on their way back to Jerusalem. There they found the eleven disciples and the others who had gathered with them, 34who said, “The Lord has really risen! He appeared to Peter.[*]”

JESUS APPEARS AFTER HIS RESURRECTION

JESUS APPEARS TO THE DISCIPLES

35Then the two from Emmaus told their story of how Jesus had appeared to them as they were walking along the road, and how they had recognized him as he was breaking the bread. 36And just as they were telling about it, Jesus himself was suddenly standing there among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. 37But the whole group was startled and frightened, thinking they were seeing a ghost!

38“Why are you frightened?” he asked. “Why are your hearts filled with doubt? 39Look at my hands. Look at my feet. You can see that it’s really me. Touch me and make sure that I am not a ghost, because ghosts don’t have bodies, as you see that I do.” 40As he spoke, he showed them his hands and his feet.

41Still they stood there in disbelief, filled with joy and wonder. Then he asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” 42They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43and he ate it as they watched.

44Then he said, “When I was with you before, I told you that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and in the Psalms must be fulfilled.” 45Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. 46And he said, “Yes, it was written long ago that the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day. 47It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of his name to all the nations,[*] beginning in Jerusalem: ‘There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.’ 48You are witnesses of all these things.

49“And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.”

THE ASCENSION

50Then Jesus led them to Bethany, and lifting his hands to heaven, he blessed them. 51While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up to heaven. 52So they worshiped him and then returned to Jerusalem filled with great joy. 53And they spent all of their time in the Temple, praising God.

John

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21

John 6

JESUS FEEDS FIVE THOUSAND

1After this, Jesus crossed over to the far side of the Sea of Galilee, also known as the Sea of Tiberias. 2A huge crowd kept following him wherever he went, because they saw his miraculous signs as he healed the sick. 3Then Jesus climbed a hill and sat down with his disciples around him. 4(It was nearly time for the Jewish Passover celebration.) 5Jesus soon saw a huge crowd of people coming to look for him. Turning to Philip, he asked, “Where can we buy bread to feed all these people?” 6He was testing Philip, for he already knew what he was going to do.

7Philip replied, “Even if we worked for months, we wouldn’t have enough money[*] to feed them!”

8Then Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up. 9“There’s a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd?”

10“Tell everyone to sit down,” Jesus said. So they all sat down on the grassy slopes. (The men alone numbered about 5,000.) 11Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks to God, and distributed them to the people. Afterward he did the same with the fish. And they all ate as much as they wanted. 12After everyone was full, Jesus told his disciples, “Now gather the leftovers, so that nothing is wasted.” 13So they picked up the pieces and filled twelve baskets with scraps left by the people who had eaten from the five barley loaves.

14When the people saw him[*] do this miraculous sign, they exclaimed, “Surely, he is the Prophet we have been expecting!”[*] 15When Jesus saw that they were ready to force him to be their king, he slipped away into the hills by himself.

JESUS WALKS ON WATER

16That evening Jesus’ disciples went down to the shore to wait for him. 17But as darkness fell and Jesus still hadn’t come back, they got into the boat and headed across the lake toward Capernaum. 18Soon a gale swept down upon them, and the sea grew very rough. 19They had rowed three or four miles[*] when suddenly they saw Jesus walking on the water toward the boat. They were terrified, 20but he called out to them, “Don’t be afraid. I am here![*]” 21Then they were eager to let him in the boat, and immediately they arrived at their destination!

JESUS, THE BREAD OF LIFE

22The next day the crowd that had stayed on the far shore saw that the disciples had taken the only boat, and they realized Jesus had not gone with them. 23Several boats from Tiberias landed near the place where the Lord had blessed the bread and the people had eaten. 24So when the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into the boats and went across to Capernaum to look for him. 25They found him on the other side of the lake and asked, “Rabbi, when did you get here?”

26Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, you want to be with me because I fed you, not because you understood the miraculous signs. 27But don’t be so concerned about perishable things like food. Spend your energy seeking the eternal life that the Son of Man[*] can give you. For God the Father has given me the seal of his approval.”

28They replied, “We want to perform God’s works, too. What should we do?”

29Jesus told them, “This is the only work God wants from you: Believe in the one he has sent.”

30They answered, “Show us a miraculous sign if you want us to believe in you. What can you do? 31After all, our ancestors ate manna while they journeyed through the wilderness! The Scriptures say, ‘Moses gave them bread from heaven to eat.’[*]”

32Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, Moses didn’t give you bread from heaven. My Father did. And now he offers you the true bread from heaven. 33The true bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.”

34“Sir,” they said, “give us that bread every day.”

35Jesus replied, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. 36But you haven’t believed in me even though you have seen me. 37However, those the Father has given me will come to me, and I will never reject them. 38For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do my own will. 39And this is the will of God, that I should not lose even one of all those he has given me, but that I should raise them up at the last day. 40For it is my Father’s will that all who see his Son and believe in him should have eternal life. I will raise them up at the last day.”

41Then the people[*] began to murmur in disagreement because he had said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” 42They said, “Isn’t this Jesus, the son of Joseph? We know his father and mother. How can he say, ‘I came down from heaven’?”

43But Jesus replied, “Stop complaining about what I said. 44For no one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them to me, and at the last day I will raise them up. 45As it is written in the Scriptures,[*] ‘They will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him comes to me. 46(Not that anyone has ever seen the Father; only I, who was sent from God, have seen him.)

47“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes has eternal life. 48Yes, I am the bread of life! 49Your ancestors ate manna in the wilderness, but they all died. 50Anyone who eats the bread from heaven, however, will never die. 51I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will live forever; and this bread, which I will offer so the world may live, is my flesh.”

52Then the people began arguing with each other about what he meant. “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” they asked.

53So Jesus said again, “I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you cannot have eternal life within you. 54But anyone who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise that person at the last day. 55For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. 56Anyone who eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him. 57I live because of the living Father who sent me; in the same way, anyone who feeds on me will live because of me. 58I am the true bread that came down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will not die as your ancestors did (even though they ate the manna) but will live forever.”

59He said these things while he was teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum.

MANY DISCIPLES DESERT JESUS

60Many of his disciples said, “This is very hard to understand. How can anyone accept it?”

61Jesus was aware that his disciples were complaining, so he said to them, “Does this offend you? 62Then what will you think if you see the Son of Man ascend to heaven again? 63The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life. 64But some of you do not believe me.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning which ones didn’t believe, and he knew who would betray him.) 65Then he said, “That is why I said that people can’t come to me unless the Father gives them to me.”

66At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him. 67Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?”

68Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life. 69We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God.[*]”

70Then Jesus said, “I chose the twelve of you, but one is a devil.” 71He was speaking of Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, one of the Twelve, who would later betray him.

HEALING JOHN 9:1-11

John 9

JESUS HEALS A MAN BORN BLIND

1As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man who had been blind from birth. 2“Rabbi,” his disciples asked him, “why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents’ sins?”

3“It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “This happened so the power of God could be seen in him. 4We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us.[*] The night is coming, and then no one can work. 5But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world.”

THE POOL OF SILOAM

6Then he spit on the ground, made mud with the saliva, and spread the mud over the blind man’s eyes. 7He told him, “Go wash yourself in the pool of Siloam” (Siloam means “sent”). So the man went and washed and came back seeing!

8His neighbors and others who knew him as a blind beggar asked each other, “Isn’t this the man who used to sit and beg?” 9Some said he was, and others said, “No, he just looks like him!”

But the beggar kept saying, “Yes, I am the same one!”

10They asked, “Who healed you? What happened?”

11He told them, “The man they call Jesus made mud and spread it over my eyes and told me, ‘Go to the pool of Siloam and wash yourself.’ So I went and washed, and now I can see!”

12“Where is he now?” they asked.

“I don’t know,” he replied.

13Then they took the man who had been blind to the Pharisees, 14because it was on the Sabbath that Jesus had made the mud and healed him. 15The Pharisees asked the man all about it. So he told them, “He put the mud over my eyes, and when I washed it away, I could see!”

16Some of the Pharisees said, “This man Jesus is not from God, for he is working on the Sabbath.” Others said, “But how could an ordinary sinner do such miraculous signs?” So there was a deep division of opinion among them.

17Then the Pharisees again questioned the man who had been blind and demanded, “What’s your opinion about this man who healed you?”

The man replied, “I think he must be a prophet.”

18The Jewish leaders still refused to believe the man had been blind and could now see, so they called in his parents. 19They asked them, “Is this your son? Was he born blind? If so, how can he now see?”

20His parents replied, “We know this is our son and that he was born blind, 21but we don’t know how he can see or who healed him. Ask him. He is old enough to speak for himself.” 22His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders, who had announced that anyone saying Jesus was the Messiah would be expelled from the synagogue. 23That’s why they said, “He is old enough. Ask him.”

24So for the second time they called in the man who had been blind and told him, “God should get the glory for this,[*] because we know this man Jesus is a sinner.”

25“I don’t know whether he is a sinner,” the man replied. “But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see!”

26“But what did he do?” they asked. “How did he heal you?”

27“Look!” the man exclaimed. “I told you once. Didn’t you listen? Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples, too?”

28Then they cursed him and said, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses! 29We know God spoke to Moses, but we don’t even know where this man comes from.”

30“Why, that’s very strange!” the man replied. “He healed my eyes, and yet you don’t know where he comes from? 31We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but he is ready to hear those who worship him and do his will. 32Ever since the world began, no one has been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. 33If this man were not from God, he couldn’t have done it.”

34“You were born a total sinner!” they answered. “Are you trying to teach us?” And they threw him out of the synagogue.

SPIRITUAL BLINDNESS

35When Jesus heard what had happened, he found the man and asked, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?[*]”

36The man answered, “Who is he, sir? I want to believe in him.”

37“You have seen him,” Jesus said, “and he is speaking to you!”

38“Yes, Lord, I believe!” the man said. And he worshiped Jesus.

39Then Jesus told him,[*] “I entered this world to render judgment—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see[*] that they are blind.”

40Some Pharisees who were standing nearby heard him and asked, “Are you saying we’re blind?”

41“If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.

AFTERLIFE JOHN 14:1-14

John 14

JESUS, THE WAY TO THE FATHER

1“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. 2There is more than enough room in my Father’s home.[*] If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?[*] 3When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. 4And you know the way to where I am going.”

5“No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?”

6Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. 7If you had really known me, you would know who my Father is.[*] From now on, you do know him and have seen him!”

8Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied.”

9Jesus replied, “Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and yet you still don’t know who I am? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father! So why are you asking me to show him to you? 10Don’t you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words I speak are not my own, but my Father who lives in me does his work through me. 11Just believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me. Or at least believe because of the work you have seen me do.

12“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. 13You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. 14Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!

JESUS PROMISES THE HOLY SPIRIT

15“If you love me, obey[*] my commandments. 16And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate,[*] who will never leave you. 17He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.[*] 18No, I will not abandon you as orphans—I will come to you. 19Soon the world will no longer see me, but you will see me. Since I live, you also will live. 20When I am raised to life again, you will know that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. 21Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.”

22Judas (not Judas Iscariot, but the other disciple with that name) said to him, “Lord, why are you going to reveal yourself only to us and not to the world at large?”

23Jesus replied, “All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them. 24Anyone who doesn’t love me will not obey me. And remember, my words are not my own. What I am telling you is from the Father who sent me. 25I am telling you these things now while I am still with you. 26But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.

27“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid. 28Remember what I told you: I am going away, but I will come back to you again. If you really loved me, you would be happy that I am going to the Father, who is greater than I am. 29I have told you these things before they happen so that when they do happen, you will believe.

30“I don’t have much more time to talk to you, because the ruler of this world approaches. He has no power over me, 31but I will do what the Father requires of me, so that the world will know that I love the Father. Come, let’s be going.

Acts

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28

Acts 1

THE PROMISE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

1In my first book[*] I told you, Theophilus, about everything Jesus began to do and teach 2until the day he was taken up to heaven after giving his chosen apostles further instructions through the Holy Spirit. 3During the forty days after he suffered and died, he appeared to the apostles from time to time, and he proved to them in many ways that he was actually alive. And he talked to them about the Kingdom of God.

4Once when he was eating with them, he commanded them, “Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before. 5John baptized with[*] water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”

MOUNT OF OLIVES

THE ASCENSION OF JESUS

6So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, “Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?”

7He replied, “The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. 8But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

9After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him. 10As they strained to see him rising into heaven, two white-robed men suddenly stood among them. 11“Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!”

MATTHIAS REPLACES JUDAS

12Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, a distance of half a mile.[*] 13When they arrived, they went to the upstairs room of the house where they were staying.

Here are the names of those who were present: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James (son of Alphaeus), Simon (the Zealot), and Judas (son of James). 14They all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus.

15During this time, when about 120 believers[*] were together in one place, Peter stood up and addressed them. 16“Brothers,” he said, “the Scriptures had to be fulfilled concerning Judas, who guided those who arrested Jesus. This was predicted long ago by the Holy Spirit, speaking through King David. 17Judas was one of us and shared in the ministry with us.”

18(Judas had bought a field with the money he received for his treachery. Falling headfirst there, his body split open, spilling out all his intestines. 19The news of his death spread to all the people of Jerusalem, and they gave the place the Aramaic name Akeldama, which means “Field of Blood.”)

20Peter continued, “This was written in the book of Psalms, where it says, ‘Let his home become desolate, with no one living in it.’ It also says, ‘Let someone else take his position.’[*]

21“So now we must choose a replacement for Judas from among the men who were with us the entire time we were traveling with the Lord Jesus—22from the time he was baptized by John until the day he was taken from us. Whoever is chosen will join us as a witness of Jesus’ resurrection.”

23So they nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. 24Then they all prayed, “O Lord, you know every heart. Show us which of these men you have chosen 25as an apostle to replace Judas in this ministry, for he has deserted us and gone where he belongs.” 26Then they cast lots, and Matthias was selected to become an apostle with the other eleven.

HOLY SPIRIT ACTS 2:1-13

Acts 2

THE HOLY SPIRIT COMES

1On the day of Pentecost[*] all the believers were meeting together in one place. 2Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. 3Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. 4And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages,[*] as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.

5At that time there were devout Jews from every nation living in Jerusalem. 6When they heard the loud noise, everyone came running, and they were bewildered to hear their own languages being spoken by the believers.

7They were completely amazed. “How can this be?” they exclaimed. “These people are all from Galilee, 8and yet we hear them speaking in our own native languages! 9Here we are—Parthians, Medes, Elamites, people from Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontus, the province of Asia, 10Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, and the areas of Libya around Cyrene, visitors from Rome 11(both Jews and converts to Judaism), Cretans, and Arabs. And we all hear these people speaking in our own languages about the wonderful things God has done!” 12They stood there amazed and perplexed. “What can this mean?” they asked each other.

13But others in the crowd ridiculed them, saying, “They’re just drunk, that’s all!”

PETER PREACHES TO THE CROWD

14Then Peter stepped forward with the eleven other apostles and shouted to the crowd, “Listen carefully, all of you, fellow Jews and residents of Jerusalem! Make no mistake about this. 15These people are not drunk, as some of you are assuming. Nine o’clock in the morning is much too early for that. 16No, what you see was predicted long ago by the prophet Joel:

17‘In the last days,’ God says,

‘I will pour out my Spirit upon all people.

Your sons and daughters will prophesy.

Your young men will see visions,

and your old men will dream dreams.

18In those days I will pour out my Spirit

even on my servants—men and women alike—

and they will prophesy.

19And I will cause wonders in the heavens above

and signs on the earth below—

blood and fire and clouds of smoke.

20The sun will become dark,

and the moon will turn blood red

before that great and glorious day of the LORD arrives.

21But everyone who calls on the name of the LORD

will be saved.’[*]

22“People of Israel, listen! God publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene[*] by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know. 23But God knew what would happen, and his prearranged plan was carried out when Jesus was betrayed. With the help of lawless Gentiles, you nailed him to a cross and killed him. 24But God released him from the horrors of death and raised him back to life, for death could not keep him in its grip. 25King David said this about him:

‘I see that the LORD is always with me.

I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.

26No wonder my heart is glad,

and my tongue shouts his praises!

My body rests in hope.

27For you will not leave my soul among the dead[*]

or allow your Holy One to rot in the grave.

28You have shown me the way of life,

and you will fill me with the joy of your presence.’[*]

29“Dear brothers, think about this! You can be sure that the patriarch David wasn’t referring to himself, for he died and was buried, and his tomb is still here among us. 30But he was a prophet, and he knew God had promised with an oath that one of David’s own descendants would sit on his throne. 31David was looking into the future and speaking of the Messiah’s resurrection. He was saying that God would not leave him among the dead or allow his body to rot in the grave.

32“God raised Jesus from the dead, and we are all witnesses of this. 33Now he is exalted to the place of highest honor in heaven, at God’s right hand. And the Father, as he had promised, gave him the Holy Spirit to pour out upon us, just as you see and hear today. 34For David himself never ascended into heaven, yet he said,

‘The LORD said to my Lord,

“Sit in the place of honor at my right hand

35until I humble your enemies,

making them a footstool under your feet.”’[*]

36“So let everyone in Israel know for certain that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, to be both Lord and Messiah!”

37Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?”

38Peter replied, “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away[*]—all who have been called by the Lord our God.” 40Then Peter continued preaching for a long time, strongly urging all his listeners, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation!”

41Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that day—about 3,000 in all.

THE BELIEVERS FORM A COMMUNITY

42All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper[*]), and to prayer.

43A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. 44And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. 46They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity[*]—47all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.

HEALING ACTS 3:1-11

THE TEMPLE IN JERUSALEM

Acts 3

PETER HEALS A CRIPPLED BEGGAR

1Peter and John went to the Temple one afternoon to take part in the three o’clock prayer service. 2As they approached the Temple, a man lame from birth was being carried in. Each day he was put beside the Temple gate, the one called the Beautiful Gate, so he could beg from the people going into the Temple. 3When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for some money.

4Peter and John looked at him intently, and Peter said, “Look at us!” 5The lame man looked at them eagerly, expecting some money. 6But Peter said, “I don’t have any silver or gold for you. But I’ll give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene,[*] get up and[*] walk!”

7Then Peter took the lame man by the right hand and helped him up. And as he did, the man’s feet and ankles were instantly healed and strengthened. 8He jumped up, stood on his feet, and began to walk! Then, walking, leaping, and praising God, he went into the Temple with them.

9All the people saw him walking and heard him praising God. 10When they realized he was the lame beggar they had seen so often at the Beautiful Gate, they were absolutely astounded! 11They all rushed out in amazement to Solomon’s Colonnade, where the man was holding tightly to Peter and John.

PETER PREACHES IN THE TEMPLE

12Peter saw his opportunity and addressed the crowd. “People of Israel,” he said, “what is so surprising about this? And why stare at us as though we had made this man walk by our own power or godliness? 13For it is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—the God of all our ancestors—who has brought glory to his servant Jesus by doing this. This is the same Jesus whom you handed over and rejected before Pilate, despite Pilate’s decision to release him. 14You rejected this holy, righteous one and instead demanded the release of a murderer. 15You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. And we are witnesses of this fact!

16“Through faith in the name of Jesus, this man was healed—and you know how crippled he was before. Faith in Jesus’ name has healed him before your very eyes.

17“Friends,[*] I realize that what you and your leaders did to Jesus was done in ignorance. 18But God was fulfilling what all the prophets had foretold about the Messiah—that he must suffer these things. 19Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away. 20Then times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord, and he will again send you Jesus, your appointed Messiah. 21For he must remain in heaven until the time for the final restoration of all things, as God promised long ago through his holy prophets. 22Moses said, ‘The LORD your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from among your own people. Listen carefully to everything he tells you.’[*] 23Then Moses said, ‘Anyone who will not listen to that Prophet will be completely cut off from God’s people.’[*]

24“Starting with Samuel, every prophet spoke about what is happening today. 25You are the children of those prophets, and you are included in the covenant God promised to your ancestors. For God said to Abraham, ‘Through your descendants[*] all the families on earth will be blessed.’ 26When God raised up his servant, Jesus, he sent him first to you people of Israel, to bless you by turning each of you back from your sinful ways.”

DAMASCUS

Acts 9

SAUL’S CONVERSION

1Meanwhile, Saul was uttering threats with every breath and was eager to kill the Lord’s followers.[*] So he went to the high priest. 2He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, asking for their cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the Way he found there. He wanted to bring them—both men and women—back to Jerusalem in chains.

3As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him. 4He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?”

5“Who are you, lord?” Saul asked.

And the voice replied, “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! 6Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

7The men with Saul stood speechless, for they heard the sound of someone’s voice but saw no one! 8Saul picked himself up off the ground, but when he opened his eyes he was blind. So his companions led him by the hand to Damascus. 9He remained there blind for three days and did not eat or drink.

10Now there was a believer[*] in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision, calling, “Ananias!”

“Yes, Lord!” he replied.

11The Lord said, “Go over to Straight Street, to the house of Judas. When you get there, ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul. He is praying to me right now. 12I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying hands on him so he can see again.”

13“But Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I’ve heard many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers[*] in Jerusalem! 14And he is authorized by the leading priests to arrest everyone who calls upon your name.”

15But the Lord said, “Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. 16And I will show him how much he must suffer for my name’s sake.”

17So Ananias went and found Saul. He laid his hands on him and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18Instantly something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptized. 19Afterward he ate some food and regained his strength.

SAUL IN DAMASCUS AND JERUSALEM

Saul stayed with the believers[*] in Damascus for a few days. 20And immediately he began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is indeed the Son of God!”

21All who heard him were amazed. “Isn’t this the same man who caused such devastation among Jesus’ followers in Jerusalem?” they asked. “And didn’t he come here to arrest them and take them in chains to the leading priests?”

22Saul’s preaching became more and more powerful, and the Jews in Damascus couldn’t refute his proofs that Jesus was indeed the Messiah. 23After a while some of the Jews plotted together to kill him. 24They were watching for him day and night at the city gate so they could murder him, but Saul was told about their plot. 25So during the night, some of the other believers[*] lowered him in a large basket through an opening in the city wall.

26When Saul arrived in Jerusalem, he tried to meet with the believers, but they were all afraid of him. They did not believe he had truly become a believer! 27Then Barnabas brought him to the apostles and told them how Saul had seen the Lord on the way to Damascus and how the Lord had spoken to Saul. He also told them that Saul had preached boldly in the name of Jesus in Damascus.

28So Saul stayed with the apostles and went all around Jerusalem with them, preaching boldly in the name of the Lord. 29He debated with some Greek-speaking Jews, but they tried to murder him. 30When the believers[*] heard about this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him away to Tarsus, his hometown.

31The church then had peace throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria, and it became stronger as the believers lived in the fear of the Lord. And with the encouragement of the Holy Spirit, it also grew in numbers.

PETER HEALS AENEAS AND RAISES DORCAS

32Meanwhile, Peter traveled from place to place, and he came down to visit the believers in the town of Lydda. 33There he met a man named Aeneas, who had been paralyzed and bedridden for eight years. 34Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you! Get up, and roll up your sleeping mat!” And he was healed instantly. 35Then the whole population of Lydda and Sharon saw Aeneas walking around, and they turned to the Lord.

36There was a believer in Joppa named Tabitha (which in Greek is Dorcas[*]). She was always doing kind things for others and helping the poor. 37About this time she became ill and died. Her body was washed for burial and laid in an upstairs room. 38But the believers had heard that Peter was nearby at Lydda, so they sent two men to beg him, “Please come as soon as possible!”

39So Peter returned with them; and as soon as he arrived, they took him to the upstairs room. The room was filled with widows who were weeping and showing him the coats and other clothes Dorcas had made for them. 40But Peter asked them all to leave the room; then he knelt and prayed. Turning to the body he said, “Get up, Tabitha.” And she opened her eyes! When she saw Peter, she sat up! 41He gave her his hand and helped her up. Then he called in the widows and all the believers, and he presented her to them alive.

42The news spread through the whole town, and many believed in the Lord. 43And Peter stayed a long time in Joppa, living with Simon, a tanner of hides.

CAESAREA

Acts 10

CORNELIUS CALLS FOR PETER

1In Caesarea there lived a Roman army officer[*] named Cornelius, who was a captain of the Italian Regiment. 2He was a devout, God-fearing man, as was everyone in his household. He gave generously to the poor and prayed regularly to God. 3One afternoon about three o’clock, he had a vision in which he saw an angel of God coming toward him. “Cornelius!” the angel said.

4Cornelius stared at him in terror. “What is it, sir?” he asked the angel.

And the angel replied, “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have been received by God as an offering! 5Now send some men to Joppa, and summon a man named Simon Peter. 6He is staying with Simon, a tanner who lives near the seashore.”

7As soon as the angel was gone, Cornelius called two of his household servants and a devout soldier, one of his personal attendants. 8He told them what had happened and sent them off to Joppa.

PETER VISITS CORNELIUS

9The next day as Cornelius’s messengers were nearing the town, Peter went up on the flat roof to pray. It was about noon, 10and he was hungry. But while a meal was being prepared, he fell into a trance. 11He saw the sky open, and something like a large sheet was let down by its four corners. 12In the sheet were all sorts of animals, reptiles, and birds. 13Then a voice said to him, “Get up, Peter; kill and eat them.”

14“No, Lord,” Peter declared. “I have never eaten anything that our Jewish laws have declared impure and unclean.[*]”

15But the voice spoke again: “Do not call something unclean if God has made it clean.” 16The same vision was repeated three times. Then the sheet was suddenly pulled up to heaven.

17Peter was very perplexed. What could the vision mean? Just then the men sent by Cornelius found Simon’s house. Standing outside the gate, 18they asked if a man named Simon Peter was staying there.

19Meanwhile, as Peter was puzzling over the vision, the Holy Spirit said to him, “Three men have come looking for you. 20Get up, go downstairs, and go with them without hesitation. Don’t worry, for I have sent them.”

21So Peter went down and said, “I’m the man you are looking for. Why have you come?”

JOPPA

22They said, “We were sent by Cornelius, a Roman officer. He is a devout and God-fearing man, well respected by all the Jews. A holy angel instructed him to summon you to his house so that he can hear your message.” 23So Peter invited the men to stay for the night. The next day he went with them, accompanied by some of the brothers from Joppa.

24They arrived in Caesarea the following day. Cornelius was waiting for them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25As Peter entered his home, Cornelius fell at his feet and worshiped him. 26But Peter pulled him up and said, “Stand up! I’m a human being just like you!” 27So they talked together and went inside, where many others were assembled.

28Peter told them, “You know it is against our laws for a Jewish man to enter a Gentile home like this or to associate with you. But God has shown me that I should no longer think of anyone as impure or unclean. 29So I came without objection as soon as I was sent for. Now tell me why you sent for me.”

30Cornelius replied, “Four days ago I was praying in my house about this same time, three o’clock in the afternoon. Suddenly, a man in dazzling clothes was standing in front of me. 31He told me, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and your gifts to the poor have been noticed by God! 32Now send messengers to Joppa, and summon a man named Simon Peter. He is staying in the home of Simon, a tanner who lives near the seashore.’ 33So I sent for you at once, and it was good of you to come. Now we are all here, waiting before God to hear the message the Lord has given you.”

THE GENTILES HEAR THE GOOD NEWS

34Then Peter replied, “I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. 35In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right. 36This is the message of Good News for the people of Israel—that there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all. 37You know what happened throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee, after John began preaching his message of baptism. 38And you know that God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. Then Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.

39“And we apostles are witnesses of all he did throughout Judea and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a cross,[*] 40but God raised him to life on the third day. Then God allowed him to appear, 41not to the general public,[*] but to us whom God had chosen in advance to be his witnesses. We were those who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42And he ordered us to preach everywhere and to testify that Jesus is the one appointed by God to be the judge of all—the living and the dead. 43He is the one all the prophets testified about, saying that everyone who believes in him will have their sins forgiven through his name.”

THE GENTILES RECEIVE THE HOLY SPIRIT

44Even as Peter was saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who were listening to the message. 45The Jewish believers[*] who came with Peter were amazed that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles, too. 46For they heard them speaking in other tongues[*] and praising God.

Then Peter asked, 47“Can anyone object to their being baptized, now that they have received the Holy Spirit just as we did?” 48So he gave orders for them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Afterward Cornelius asked him to stay with them for several days.

Acts 15

THE COUNCIL AT JERUSALEM

1While Paul and Barnabas were at Antioch of Syria, some men from Judea arrived and began to teach the believers[*]: “Unless you are circumcised as required by the law of Moses, you cannot be saved.” 2Paul and Barnabas disagreed with them, arguing vehemently. Finally, the church decided to send Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem, accompanied by some local believers, to talk to the apostles and elders about this question. 3The church sent the delegates to Jerusalem, and they stopped along the way in Phoenicia and Samaria to visit the believers. They told them—much to everyone’s joy—that the Gentiles, too, were being converted.

4When they arrived in Jerusalem, Barnabas and Paul were welcomed by the whole church, including the apostles and elders. They reported everything God had done through them. 5But then some of the believers who belonged to the sect of the Pharisees stood up and insisted, “The Gentile converts must be circumcised and required to follow the law of Moses.”

6So the apostles and elders met together to resolve this issue. 7At the meeting, after a long discussion, Peter stood and addressed them as follows: “Brothers, you all know that God chose me from among you some time ago to preach to the Gentiles so that they could hear the Good News and believe. 8God knows people’s hearts, and he confirmed that he accepts Gentiles by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as he did to us. 9He made no distinction between us and them, for he cleansed their hearts through faith. 10So why are you now challenging God by burdening the Gentile believers[*] with a yoke that neither we nor our ancestors were able to bear? 11We believe that we are all saved the same way, by the undeserved grace of the Lord Jesus.”

12Everyone listened quietly as Barnabas and Paul told about the miraculous signs and wonders God had done through them among the Gentiles.

13When they had finished, James stood and said, “Brothers, listen to me. 14Peter[*] has told you about the time God first visited the Gentiles to take from them a people for himself. 15And this conversion of Gentiles is exactly what the prophets predicted. As it is written:

16‘Afterward I will return

and restore the fallen house[*] of David.

I will rebuild its ruins

and restore it,

17so that the rest of humanity might seek the LORD,

including the Gentiles—

all those I have called to be mine.

The LORD has spoken—

18he who made these things known so long ago.’[*]

19“And so my judgment is that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God. 20Instead, we should write and tell them to abstain from eating food offered to idols, from sexual immorality, from eating the meat of strangled animals, and from consuming blood. 21For these laws of Moses have been preached in Jewish synagogues in every city on every Sabbath for many generations.”

THE LETTER FOR GENTILE BELIEVERS

22Then the apostles and elders together with the whole church in Jerusalem chose delegates, and they sent them to Antioch of Syria with Paul and Barnabas to report on this decision. The men chosen were two of the church leaders[*]—Judas (also called Barsabbas) and Silas. 23This is the letter they took with them:

“This letter is from the apostles and elders, your brothers in Jerusalem. It is written to the Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia. Greetings!

24“We understand that some men from here have troubled you and upset you with their teaching, but we did not send them! 25So we decided, having come to complete agreement, to send you official representatives, along with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, 26who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 27We are sending Judas and Silas to confirm what we have decided concerning your question.

28“For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay no greater burden on you than these few requirements: 29You must abstain from eating food offered to idols, from consuming blood or the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality. If you do this, you will do well. Farewell.”

30The messengers went at once to Antioch, where they called a general meeting of the believers and delivered the letter. 31And there was great joy throughout the church that day as they read this encouraging message.

32Then Judas and Silas, both being prophets, spoke at length to the believers, encouraging and strengthening their faith. 33They stayed for a while, and then the believers sent them back to the church in Jerusalem with a blessing of peace.[*] 35Paul and Barnabas stayed in Antioch. They and many others taught and preached the word of the Lord there.

PAUL AND BARNABAS SEPARATE

36After some time Paul said to Barnabas, “Let’s go back and visit each city where we previously preached the word of the Lord, to see how the new believers are doing.” 37Barnabas agreed and wanted to take along John Mark. 38But Paul disagreed strongly, since John Mark had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in their work. 39Their disagreement was so sharp that they separated. Barnabas took John Mark with him and sailed for Cyprus. 40Paul chose Silas, and as he left, the believers entrusted him to the Lord’s gracious care. 41Then he traveled throughout Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches there.

Romans

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16

1 Corinthians

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16

1 Corinthians 13

LOVE IS THE GREATEST

1If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing. 3If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it;[*] but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing.

4Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud 5or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. 6It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. 7Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.

8Prophecy and speaking in unknown languages[*] and special knowledge will become useless. But love will last forever! 9Now our knowledge is partial and incomplete, and even the gift of prophecy reveals only part of the whole picture! 10But when the time of perfection comes, these partial things will become useless.

11When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things. 12Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity.[*] All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely.

13Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.

2 Corinthians

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13

Galatians

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6

Ephesians

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6

Philippians

Introduction   1   2   3   4

Philippians 2

HAVE THE ATTITUDE OF CHRIST

1Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? 2Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.

3Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

5You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.

SONGS PHILIPPIANS 2:6-11

6Though he was God,[*]

he did not think of equality with God

as something to cling to.

7Instead, he gave up his divine privileges[*];

he took the humble position of a slave[*]

and was born as a human being.

When he appeared in human form,[*]

8he humbled himself in obedience to God

and died a criminal’s death on a cross.

9Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor

and gave him the name above all other names,

10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,

in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

11and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord,

to the glory of God the Father.

SHINE BRIGHTLY FOR CHRIST

12Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. 13For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.

14Do everything without complaining and arguing, 15so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. 16Hold firmly to the word of life; then, on the day of Christ’s return, I will be proud that I did not run the race in vain and that my work was not useless. 17But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God,[*] just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy. 18Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy.

PAUL COMMENDS TIMOTHY

19If the Lord Jesus is willing, I hope to send Timothy to you soon for a visit. Then he can cheer me up by telling me how you are getting along. 20I have no one else like Timothy, who genuinely cares about your welfare. 21All the others care only for themselves and not for what matters to Jesus Christ. 22But you know how Timothy has proved himself. Like a son with his father, he has served with me in preaching the Good News. 23I hope to send him to you just as soon as I find out what is going to happen to me here. 24And I have confidence from the Lord that I myself will come to see you soon.

PAUL COMMENDS EPAPHRODITUS

25Meanwhile, I thought I should send Epaphroditus back to you. He is a true brother, co-worker, and fellow soldier. And he was your messenger to help me in my need. 26I am sending him because he has been longing to see you, and he was very distressed that you heard he was ill. 27And he certainly was ill; in fact, he almost died. But God had mercy on him—and also on me, so that I would not have one sorrow after another.

28So I am all the more anxious to send him back to you, for I know you will be glad to see him, and then I will not be so worried about you. 29Welcome him in the Lord’s love[*] and with great joy, and give him the honor that people like him deserve. 30For he risked his life for the work of Christ, and he was at the point of death while doing for me what you couldn’t do from far away.

Colossians

Introduction   1   2   3   4

1 Thessalonians

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5

2 Thessalonians

Introduction   1   2   3

1 Timothy

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6

2 Timothy

Introduction   1   2   3   4

Titus

Introduction   1   2   3

Philemon

Introduction   1

Hebrews

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13

Hebrews 11

GREAT EXAMPLES OF FAITH

1Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see. 2Through their faith, the people in days of old earned a good reputation.

3By faith we understand that the entire universe was formed at God’s command, that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen.

4It was by faith that Abel brought a more acceptable offering to God than Cain did. Abel’s offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man, and God showed his approval of his gifts. Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by his example of faith.

5It was by faith that Enoch was taken up to heaven without dying—“he disappeared, because God took him.”[*] For before he was taken up, he was known as a person who pleased God. 6And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.

7It was by faith that Noah built a large boat to save his family from the flood. He obeyed God, who warned him about things that had never happened before. By his faith Noah condemned the rest of the world, and he received the righteousness that comes by faith.

8It was by faith that Abraham obeyed when God called him to leave home and go to another land that God would give him as his inheritance. He went without knowing where he was going. 9And even when he reached the land God promised him, he lived there by faith—for he was like a foreigner, living in tents. And so did Isaac and Jacob, who inherited the same promise. 10Abraham was confidently looking forward to a city with eternal foundations, a city designed and built by God.

11It was by faith that even Sarah was able to have a child, though she was barren and was too old. She believed[*] that God would keep his promise. 12And so a whole nation came from this one man who was as good as dead—a nation with so many people that, like the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore, there is no way to count them.

13All these people died still believing what God had promised them. They did not receive what was promised, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it. They agreed that they were foreigners and nomads here on earth. 14Obviously people who say such things are looking forward to a country they can call their own. 15If they had longed for the country they came from, they could have gone back. 16But they were looking for a better place, a heavenly homeland. That is why God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.

17It was by faith that Abraham offered Isaac as a sacrifice when God was testing him. Abraham, who had received God’s promises, was ready to sacrifice his only son, Isaac, 18even though God had told him, “Isaac is the son through whom your descendants will be counted.”[*] 19Abraham reasoned that if Isaac died, God was able to bring him back to life again. And in a sense, Abraham did receive his son back from the dead.

20It was by faith that Isaac promised blessings for the future to his sons, Jacob and Esau.

21It was by faith that Jacob, when he was old and dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons and bowed in worship as he leaned on his staff.

22It was by faith that Joseph, when he was about to die, said confidently that the people of Israel would leave Egypt. He even commanded them to take his bones with them when they left.

23It was by faith that Moses’ parents hid him for three months when he was born. They saw that God had given them an unusual child, and they were not afraid to disobey the king’s command.

24It was by faith that Moses, when he grew up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. 25He chose to share the oppression of God’s people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin. 26He thought it was better to suffer for the sake of Christ than to own the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to his great reward. 27It was by faith that Moses left the land of Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger. He kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible. 28It was by faith that Moses commanded the people of Israel to keep the Passover and to sprinkle blood on the doorposts so that the angel of death would not kill their firstborn sons.

29It was by faith that the people of Israel went right through the Red Sea as though they were on dry ground. But when the Egyptians tried to follow, they were all drowned.

30It was by faith that the people of Israel marched around Jericho for seven days, and the walls came crashing down.

31It was by faith that Rahab the prostitute was not destroyed with the people in her city who refused to obey God. For she had given a friendly welcome to the spies.

32How much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets. 33By faith these people overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and received what God had promised them. They shut the mouths of lions, 34quenched the flames of fire, and escaped death by the edge of the sword. Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle and put whole armies to flight. 35Women received their loved ones back again from death.

But others were tortured, refusing to turn from God in order to be set free. They placed their hope in a better life after the resurrection. 36Some were jeered at, and their backs were cut open with whips. Others were chained in prisons. 37Some died by stoning, some were sawed in half,[*] and others were killed with the sword. Some went about wearing skins of sheep and goats, destitute and oppressed and mistreated. 38They were too good for this world, wandering over deserts and mountains, hiding in caves and holes in the ground.

39All these people earned a good reputation because of their faith, yet none of them received all that God had promised. 40For God had something better in mind for us, so that they would not reach perfection without us.

James

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5

1 Peter

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5

2 Peter

Introduction   1   2   3

1 John

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5

2 John

Introduction   1

3 John

Introduction   1

Jude

Introduction   1

Revelation

Introduction   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22

THE FUTURE REVELATION 21:1-8

JERUSALEM

Revelation 21

THE NEW JERUSALEM

1Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. 2And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.

3I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them.[*] 4He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.”

5And the one sitting on the throne said, “Look, I am making everything new!” And then he said to me, “Write this down, for what I tell you is trustworthy and true.” 6And he also said, “It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega—the Beginning and the End. To all who are thirsty I will give freely from the springs of the water of life. 7All who are victorious will inherit all these blessings, and I will be their God, and they will be my children.

8“But cowards, unbelievers, the corrupt, murderers, the immoral, those who practice witchcraft, idol worshipers, and all liars—their fate is in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”

9Then one of the seven angels who held the seven bowls containing the seven last plagues came and said to me, “Come with me! I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.”

10So he took me in the Spirit[*] to a great, high mountain, and he showed me the holy city, Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God. 11It shone with the glory of God and sparkled like a precious stone—like jasper as clear as crystal. 12The city wall was broad and high, with twelve gates guarded by twelve angels. And the names of the twelve tribes of Israel were written on the gates. 13There were three gates on each side—east, north, south, and west. 14The wall of the city had twelve foundation stones, and on them were written the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.

15The angel who talked to me held in his hand a gold measuring stick to measure the city, its gates, and its wall. 16When he measured it, he found it was a square, as wide as it was long. In fact, its length and width and height were each 1,400 miles.[*] 17Then he measured the walls and found them to be 216 feet thick[*] (according to the human standard used by the angel).

18The wall was made of jasper, and the city was pure gold, as clear as glass. 19The wall of the city was built on foundation stones inlaid with twelve precious stones:[*] the first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, 20the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, the twelfth amethyst.

21The twelve gates were made of pearls—each gate from a single pearl! And the main street was pure gold, as clear as glass.

22I saw no temple in the city, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23And the city has no need of sun or moon, for the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its light. 24The nations will walk in its light, and the kings of the world will enter the city in all their glory. 25Its gates will never be closed at the end of day because there is no night there. 26And all the nations will bring their glory and honor into the city. 27Nothing evil[*] will be allowed to enter, nor anyone who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty—but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

REVELATION’S OLD TESTAMENT IMAGERY

Revelation 22

1Then the angel showed me a river with the water of life, clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb. 2It flowed down the center of the main street. On each side of the river grew a tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit,[*] with a fresh crop each month. The leaves were used for medicine to heal the nations.

3No longer will there be a curse upon anything. For the throne of God and of the Lamb will be there, and his servants will worship him. 4And they will see his face, and his name will be written on their foreheads. 5And there will be no night there—no need for lamps or sun—for the Lord God will shine on them. And they will reign forever and ever.

6Then the angel said to me, “Everything you have heard and seen is trustworthy and true. The Lord God, who inspires his prophets,[*] has sent his angel to tell his servants what will happen soon.[*]”

JESUS IS COMING

7“Look, I am coming soon! Blessed are those who obey the words of prophecy written in this book.[*]”

8I, John, am the one who heard and saw all these things. And when I heard and saw them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who showed them to me. 9But he said, “No, don’t worship me. I am a servant of God, just like you and your brothers the prophets, as well as all who obey what is written in this book. Worship only God!”

10Then he instructed me, “Do not seal up the prophetic words in this book, for the time is near. 11Let the one who is doing harm continue to do harm; let the one who is vile continue to be vile; let the one who is righteous continue to live righteously; let the one who is holy continue to be holy.”

12“Look, I am coming soon, bringing my reward with me to repay all people according to their deeds. 13I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.”

14Blessed are those who wash their robes. They will be permitted to enter through the gates of the city and eat the fruit from the tree of life. 15Outside the city are the dogs—the sorcerers, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idol worshipers, and all who love to live a lie.

16“I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this message for the churches. I am both the source of David and the heir to his throne.[*] I am the bright morning star.”

17The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” Let anyone who hears this say, “Come.” Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life. 18And I solemnly declare to everyone who hears the words of prophecy written in this book: If anyone adds anything to what is written here, God will add to that person the plagues described in this book. 19And if anyone removes any of the words from this book of prophecy, God will remove that person’s share in the tree of life and in the holy city that are described in this book.

20He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon!”

Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!

21May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s holy people.[*]

Gen 2:8-9

GARDEN OF EDEN

The exact location of the Garden of Eden remains a mystery, but we do know its general vicinity. The Tigris and Euphrates Rivers are the clearest landmarks. We also know that early civilization centered in the Fertile Crescent, the area sweeping through modern-day Kuwait, Iraq, Syria, and Israel. Eden was located either in the northern mountains around the source of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, or in the southern delta region, closer to the Persian Gulf.

Gen 8:3-4

THE MOUNTAINS OF ARARAT

The mountains of Ararat may be the same mountain range that today is located southeast of the Black Sea near Lake Van. This mountain range spreads across parts of modern-day Turkey, Armenia, and Iran. A Mount Ararat is located in eastern Turkey, but the Bible refers to a range of mountains, not one specific summit.

Gen 18:1–19:38

SODOM AND GOMORRAH

Sodom and Gomorrah were located on the south end of the Dead Sea in the Jordan Valley. In Abraham’s time, this area was densely populated and very fertile, with a major water source. The exact location of these cities is uncertain because the area became desolate over time. Some believe that the ruins of the cities lie in the shallow waters of the Dead Sea.

Gen 37:1–50:26

EGYPT

Egypt was a powerful nation and an influential culture. God used Joseph’s move to Egypt to shape his family and their descendants in ways that even Joseph never dreamed.

Exod 1:11

PITHOM AND RAMESES

The modern cities of Tell el-Maskhutah and Qantir are located where Pithom and Rameses once stood. These ancient cities were located in the northern region of Egypt, in the Nile delta. Both were built during the Late Bronze period when the Hebrews were living in Egypt (1550–1250 BC).

Exod 2:15

MIDIAN

Midian was the region just east of the Gulf of Aqaba—beyond the southern Sinai Peninsula on the western edge of the Arabian Peninsula. Southern Arabia was connected to Egypt by a trade route that passed through this desert region. Living in Midian prepared Moses to lead the Hebrews when they later traveled through this area.

Exod 19:1-2

WILDERNESS OF SINAI

The wilderness of Sinai is a small region located in the south-central area of the Sinai Peninsula. It is a mountainous area containing Mount Sinai. The highest peaks of these granite mountains reach eight thousand feet above sea level and are snow covered in winter. The Israelites camped in this region for over a year.

Exod 19:3-8

MOUNT SINAI

Mount Sinai is a mountain in the southernmost part of the Sinai Peninsula. It is also called Mount Horeb or the mountain of God. God first spoke to Moses here in the form of a burning bush. Later, on the same mountain, he gave Moses the law and the Ten Commandments while the Israelites camped below on the desert plain.

Josh 6:1-27

EXCAVATION AT JERICHO

1 Sam 17:19

THE VALLEY OF ELAH

The valley of Elah, located south and west of Bethlehem, stretched out over ten miles. The Israelite army camped in the mountains on the north side of the valley, and the Philistines in the mountains on the south side near Azekah and Socoh in Judah’s territory. After defeating the Philistines, the Israelites chased them back into their own territory along the Mediterranean Sea.

1 Kgs 3:3-4

THE CITY OF GIBEON

The city of Gibeon was located six miles northwest of Jerusalem. One of the most important places for worshiping God was here. Its huge bronze altar could accommodate the large royal sacrifices that Solomon made to the Lord. The Tabernacle from the time of Moses was also located here, but the Ark of the Covenant, which was normally housed in the Tabernacle, remained in Jerusalem in a special tent.

1 Kgs 16:29-32

SAMARIA

Samaria, the capital city of the northern kingdom of Israel for 150 years, was established by King Omri as the new capital when he relocated the seat of government from the city of Tirzah, which was farther east. Samaria, centrally located in the northern kingdom, rose 300 feet above the fertile valleys below. Extensive excavations in the twentieth century uncovered the remains of a palace built there during the time of Omri and Ahab.

Jon 1:3

JOPPA

Joppa was an ancient fortified city on the Bay of acre along the coast of the mediterranean sea. Located just thirty-eight miles northwest of Jerusalem on the only natural harbor in the region, Joppa was considered the seaport of Jerusalem. the cedar timbers from Lebanon used to build Solomon’s temple and the second temple were floated from Tyre and arrived through this port. Although Joppa was part of the territory of the tribe of Dan at one point, Israel lost control of the city just before the exile. Today this seaport is known as Jaffa, a suburb of Tel Aviv.

Jon 1:3

TARSHISH

The location of Tarshish is uncertain. Its name suggests a place that specialized in metalworking. Ezekiel 27:12 refers to Tarshish as being rich in silver, iron, tin, and lead. Many possible locations have been proposed by scholars: Tartessos in southern Spain, Tyrseni in Italy, Carthage in northern Africa, and Tarsus in modern-day Turkey. What’s clear is that it represents a place far from Israel and Nineveh. Jonah had no intention of going to Nineveh; he was doing everything in his power to avoid taking God’s message to its citizens.

Matt 3:13-17

BAPTISM IN THE JORDAN RIVER

John probably baptized Jesus on the east side of the Jordan River. The eastern river valley is quite lush along the gradual banks of the meandering river. Jesus was baptized near a town named Bethany (not the Bethany near Jerusalem), which some scholars think was about six miles north of the Dead Sea. The precise location is unknown. Over time the river has changed course and flooding has completely destroyed any evidence of this city.

Matt 5:1

THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT

The exact place where Jesus preached his famous sermon is uncertain. The traditional site is a low hill (not a mountain) in the countryside near Capernaum, to the northwest of the Sea of Galilee. Another possible site is outside Tiberias, about ten miles farther south on the western shores of the Sea.

Mark 15:22

GOLGOTHA

Golgotha is a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew word gulgoleth, which means “skull.” It was the name given to the hill where Jesus was led to be crucified. It is uncertain whether this place got its name because it was a place of death or because the hill physically resembled a skull. In Jesus’ day Golgotha lay outside the city limits—the standard place for executions and for outcasts of society—near the Jerusalem’s northwestern wall. Herod Agrippa I later enlarged the city and extended its wall to include this area, which is inside modern Jerusalem at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Mark 15:42–16:1

ANCIENT BURIAL PRACTICES

The tomb owned by Joseph of Arimathea had not been used at the time of Christ’s death. It was a hole chiseled out of the stone cliff in the burial area, which was about fifty yards from Golgotha. The Jews did not use caskets or embalm their dead; the burial spices only alleviated the stench of a decomposing body. They wrapped the body in cloths and spices and placed it on a ledge inside the tomb. A large stone, weighing one to three tons, was rolled in front of the tomb’s opening with the help of gravity and a sloping groove.

Luke 2:4-5

MARY AND JOSEPH’S JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM

The journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem takes about two hours today by car. Two thousand years ago, the same journey, a ninety-mile trip, would have taken as long as two weeks. Joseph and Mary would have had to traverse hilly, rocky terrain as they made their way south. Bethlehem, a small town five miles south of Jerusalem, sits on a ridge 2,000 feet above sea level.

Luke 24:13

THE ROAD TO EMMAUS

Emmaus was a village seven miles northwest of Jerusalem. Cleopas and another follower of Jesus were returning to their hometown after the celebration of Passover in the Holy City. The road they took may have been a local road called the Way to Beth Horon, which ran north of Jerusalem and intersected two main north-south coastal highways.

John 9:7

THE POOL OF SILOAM

The pool of Siloam was a reservoir in the southeast corner of Jerusalem. It was built by King Hezekiah in the eighth century BC to ensure that the people would have drinking water if an enemy ever laid siege to the city. Water from the Gihon Spring flowed into the reservoir through an underground tunnel. The pool’s water was considered sacred and was used for ceremonies in the Temple. This pool is still in existence today.

Acts 1:6-12

MOUNT OF OLIVES

The Ascension took place on the Mount of Olives, a peak on a two-mile-long ridge that rose 250 feet higher than the Temple area in Jerusalem. The garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus had prayed, was located on the lower slopes of this mountain. Since King Solomon’s time, this location was used as a lookout point to protect the city.

Acts 3:1-26

THE TEMPLE IN JERUSALEM

The Temple in Jerusalem was like a city within a city. The Temple area was made up of buildings and courtyards surrounded by a high wall. People entered different areas of the Temple by going through various gates. Gentiles were not allowed beyond the outer court. The Beautiful Gate was located on the east side, directly in front of the main entrance to the Temple and near the covered porch of Solomon’s Colonnade. After walking through the Beautiful Gate, Jews would have found themselves in the Court of Women.

Acts 9:2

DAMASCUS

Damascus is about 140 miles northeast of Jerusalem and 60 miles east of the Mediterranean Sea. It is perhaps the oldest continuously occupied city in the world, dating as far back as the time of Abraham (Genesis 14:15). In Bible times it was strategically located between two rivers and along three major trade routes. Today Damascus is the capital city of Syria.

Acts 10:1

CAESAREA

Caesarea was a city on the Mediterranean Sea, thirty-five miles north of Joppa. Herod the Great built the seaport in the first century BC and named it for the Roman emperor Caesar Augustus. It remained the capital of the province of Judea for over six hundred years. It was home to the governors of Judea and was the regional headquarters for the Roman army.

Acts 10:23

JOPPA

Joppa was an important harbor in the region. It was a significant port during David and Solomon’s reign, but it is best known for its connection to the prophet Jonah, who boarded a ship there to sail to Tarshish. The cedars of Lebanon used in building the Temple were transported to Jerusalem through this seaport. Today it is a suburb of Tel Aviv.

Rev 21:1-2

JERUSALEM

In AD 70 the Romans destroyed the Temple and much of Jerusalem during their war against the Jews. Throughout their history the Jews had taken pride in their glorious city, which was situated high on a hill and could be seen for miles around. John’s vision of a restored Jerusalem, more glorious than the earthly city had ever been, would have given the church of new believers great joy and hope.

See “Prophecies of the Messiah” for a complete listing of prophecies.