The Mission of John the Baptist

(Isaiah 40:1–5, Matthew 3:1–17, Luke 3:1–22, John 1:19–34)

[This is the] beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, [the] Son of God.[fn] 2 As it is written in the prophets:[fn]

“Behold, I will send My messenger ahead of You

who will prepare Your way before You.”[fn]

“A voice of one calling in the wilderness,

‘Prepare the way for [the] Lord,

make straight paths for Him.’ ”[fn]

John came baptizing[fn] in the wilderness, preaching [a] baptism of repentance for [the] forgiveness of sins. 5 [People] went out to him from all of Jerusalem and the countryside of Judea. Confessing their sins, {they were} all baptized[fn] by him in the Jordan River.

John was clothed in camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. 7 And he proclaimed“After me will come One more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down [and] untie. 8 I indeed[fn] baptize you with water,[fn] but He will baptize you with [the] Holy Spirit.[fn]”

In those days Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 vvv As soon [as Jesus] came up out of the water, He saw[fn] the heavens breaking open and the Spirit descending on Him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven:“You are My beloved Son, in whom[fn] I am well pleased.”

The Temptation and Preaching of Jesus

(Matthew 4:1–17, Luke 4:1–15)

At once the Spirit drove [Jesus] into the wilderness, 13 and He was there[fn] in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and the angels ministered to Him.

After the arrest of John, Jesus went into Galilee [and] proclaimed the gospel of the kingdom[fn] of God. 15 “The time is fulfilled,” He said,“and the kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe in the gospel!”

The First Disciples

(Matthew 4:18–22, Luke 5:1–11, John 1:35–42)

As [Jesus] was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and [his] brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. 17 “Come, follow Me,” Jesus said“and I will make you fishers of men.” 18 And at once they left their nets [and] followed Him.

Going on a little [farther] from there,[fn] He saw James [son] of Zebedee and his brother John. They [were] in a boat, mending [their] nets. 20 Immediately [Jesus] called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men [and] followed Him.

Jesus Expels an Unclean Spirit

(Luke 4:31–37)

Then [Jesus and His companions] went to Capernaum, and right away [Jesus] entered the synagogue on the Sabbath [and] began to teach. 22 [The people] were astonished at His teaching, because vvv He taught as one who had authority, and not as the scribes.

Now[fn] a man with an unclean spirit cried out in the synagogue: 24 “Let [us] alone![fn] What do You [ want ] with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have You come to destroy us? I know who You are — the Holy [One] of God!”

But Jesus rebuked [the spirit].“Be silent!” He said. Come out of him!” 26 At this, the unclean spirit threw [the man] into convulsions [and] came out vvv with a loud shriek

All [the people] were amazed [and] began to ask vvv one another“What is this? What new teaching [is] this that with authority He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him?[fn]” 28 And the news about [Jesus] spread quickly through the whole region of Galilee.

Jesus Heals at Peter’s House

(Matthew 8:14–17, Luke 4:38–41)

As soon as [Jesus and His companions] had left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. 30 Simon’s mother-in-law was sick in bed with a fever, and they promptly told [Jesus] about her. 31 So He went to [her], took her [by the] hand, and helped her up Immediately[fn] the fever left her, and she began to serve them.

That evening after sunset [people] brought to [Jesus] all the vvv sick and demon-possessed, 33 and the whole town vvv gathered at the door. 34 And He healed many who were ill with various diseases and drove out many demons. But vvv He would not allow the demons to speak, because they knew who He was.[fn]

Jesus Prays and Preaches

(Luke 4:42–44)

Early in the morning, while it was still dark, [Jesus] got up [and] went out to a solitary place to pray. 36 Simon and his companions went to look for Him, 37 and when they found Him, they said“Everyone is looking for You!”

But [Jesus] answered“Let us go on to the neighboring towns so I can preach there as well, for that is why I have come.” 39 [So] He went throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.

The Leper’s Prayer

(Leviticus 14:1–32, Matthew 8:1–4, Luke 5:12–16)

Then a leper[fn] came to [Jesus], begging and kneeling before Him[fn] and saying to Him:“If You are willing, You can make me clean

Moved with compassion,[fn] Jesus reached out His hand [and] touched [the man].“I am willing,” He said“Be clean!” 42 And when He had said this,[fn] immediately the leprosy left him, and [the man] was cleansed.

vvv [Jesus] promptly sent him away with a stern warning 44 “See that you don’t tell [anyone]. But go, show yourself to the priest and present the offering Moses prescribed for your cleansing, as a testimony to them.”[fn]

But the [man] went out [and] openly began to proclaim and spread the news.

Consequently, Jesus could no longer enter a town in plain view, but He stayed out in solitary places. Yet [people] came to Him from every quarter. 2 

Jesus Heals a Paralytic

(Matthew 9:1–8, Luke 5:17–26)

[A few] days later [Jesus] went back to Capernaum. And when [the people] heard that He was vvv home, 2 immediately[fn] they gathered in such large numbers that [there was] no more room, not even outside the door, [as Jesus] spoke the word to them.

Then a paralytic vvv was brought to Him, carried by four [men]. 4 Since vvv they were unable to get to [Jesus] through the crowd, they uncovered the roof above Him made an opening, [and] lowered the paralytic on [his] mat.

When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic,“Son, your sins are forgiven you.[fn]”

But some of the scribes were sitting there and thinking in their hearts, 7 “Why {does} this [man] speak such blasphemies?[fn] Who can forgive sins but God alone?”

At once Jesus knew in His spirit that they were thinking this way within themselves.“Why are you thinking these things in your hearts?” He asked 9 “Which is easier: to say to a paralytic,‘Your sins are forgiven,[fn]’ or to say,‘Get up, pick up your mat, and walk’? 10 But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins...” He said to the paralytic, 11 “I tell you, get up, pick up your mat, and go vvv vvv vvv home.”

And immediately [the man] got up picked up [his] mat, [and] walked out in front of them all. As a result, they were all astounded and glorified God, saying,“vvv We have never seen anything like this!”

Jesus Calls Levi

(Matthew 9:9–13, Luke 5:27–32)

[Once] again [Jesus] went out beside the sea. All the people came to Him, and He taught them [there].

As He was walking along, He saw Levi [son] of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth.“Follow Me,” He told him, and [Levi] got up [and] followed Him.

While [Jesus] was dining at [Levi’s] house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with [Him] and His disciples — for there were many who followed Him. 16 When the scribes and Pharisees[fn] saw [Jesus] eating with vvv vvv [these people],[fn] they asked His disciples,“Why {does} He eat and drink[fn] with tax collectors and sinners?”

[On] hearing this, Jesus told them,“[It is] not the healthy [who] need a doctor, but the sick vvv I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.[fn]”

Questions about Fasting

(Matthew 9:14–15, Luke 5:33–35)

Now the disciples of John and of the Pharisees[fn] were often fasting. So [people] came to [Jesus] and asked,“Why don’t Your disciples fast [like] John’s disciples and vvv [those] of the Pharisees

Jesus replied“How can the guests of the bridegroom fast while [He] is with them? As long as vvv vvv [He is] with them, vvv they cannot fast. 20 But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast.

The Patches and the Wineskins

(Matthew 9:16–17, Luke 5:36–39)

No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does the [new] piece will pull away from [the] old and a worse tear will result.

And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does the new wine will burst the skins, the wine will spill out, and the wineskins will be ruined.[fn] Instead, new wine is poured into new wineskins.”[fn]

The Lord of the Sabbath

(1 Samuel 21:1–7, Matthew 12:1–8, Luke 6:1–5)

vvv vvv One Sabbath [Jesus] was passing through the grainfields, and His disciples began to pick the heads of grain [as] they walked along 24 [So] the Pharisees said to Him,“Look, why are they doing what vvv is unlawful on the Sabbath?”

[Jesus] replied“vvv Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need? 26 During the high priesthood of Abiathar, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread which vvv was lawful only for the priests. And he gave [some] to his companions as well.”

Then [Jesus] declared“The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. 28 Therefore, the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.” 3 

Jesus Heals on the Sabbath

(Matthew 12:9–14, Luke 6:6–11)

vvv Once again [Jesus] entered the synagogue,[fn] and a man with a withered hand was there. 2 In order to accuse [Jesus], they were watching {to see} if He would heal on the Sabbath.

Then [Jesus] said to the man with the withered hand,“Stand up vvv vvv among [us].” 4 And He asked them,“Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy [it]?”

But they were silent.

[Jesus] looked around at them with anger [and] sorrow at [their] hardness of heart. Then He said to the man,“Stretch out your hand.” So he stretched [it] out, and vvv vvv [it] was restored, as sound as the other.[fn]

At this the Pharisees went out [and] began plotting with the Herodians how they might kill [Jesus].

Jesus Heals the Multitudes

(Matthew 4:23–25, Luke 6:17–19)

[So] Jesus withdrew with His disciples to the sea, accompanied by a large crowd from Galilee, Judea, 8 Jerusalem, Idumea, the region beyond the Jordan, and the vicinity of Tyre and Sidon. [The] large crowd came to Him when they heard what great things He was doing.

[Jesus] asked His disciples to {have} a boat ready for Him so that the crowd vvv would not crush Him. 10 For He had healed so many that all who had diseases were pressing forward to touch Him. 11 And when the unclean spirits saw Him, they fell down before Him and cried out“You are the Son of God!” 12 But He warned them sternly not to make Him known.

The Twelve Apostles

(Matthew 10:1–4, Luke 6:12–16)

Then [Jesus] went up on the mountain and called for those He wanted, and they came to Him. 14 He appointed twelve [of them][fn] to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach, 15 and to have authority to heal sicknesses and[fn] to drive out demons:

Simon[fn] (whom He named Peter), 17 James [son] of Zebedee and his brother John ( [whom] vvv He named Boanerges, meaning“Sons of Thunder”), 18 Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James [son] of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot,[fn] 19 and Judas Iscariot, [who] betrayed [Jesus].[fn]

A House Divided

(Matthew 12:22–30, Luke 11:14–23)

Then they went into a house,[fn] and once again a crowd gathered, so that they could not even vvv eat 21 [When] vvv His family heard [about this], they went out to take custody of Him, saying“He is out of His mind.”

And the scribes who had come down from Jerusalem were saying,“He is possessed by Beelzebul,[fn]” and,“By the prince of the demons He drives out demons.”

So [Jesus] called them together [and] began to speak to them in parables:“How can Satan drive out Satan? 24 If a kingdom is divided against itself, vvv vvv [it] vvv cannot stand. 25 If a house is divided against itself, vvv vvv [it] vvv cannot stand. 26 And if Satan is divided and rises against himself, vvv he cannot stand; [his] end has come. 27 No one[fn] can enter a strong man’s house to steal his possessions unless vvv he first ties up the strong man. Then he can plunder his house.

The Unpardonable Sin

(Matthew 12:31–32)

Truly I tell you the sons of men will be forgiven all sins and blasphemies, as many as vvv they utter. 29 But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit {will} never be forgiven; he is subject to eternal judgment.[fn]”

[ Jesus made this statement ] because they were saying,“He has an unclean spirit.”

Jesus’ Mother and Brothers

(Matthew 12:46–50, Luke 8:19–21)

Then [Jesus’] brothers and mother[fn] came [and] stood outside. They sent [someone] in to summon Him, 32 and a crowd was sitting around Him.“Look,” He was told“Your mother and brothers and sisters[fn] are outside, asking for You.”

But [Jesus] replied“Who is My mother, or [who are] My brothers?[fn]” 34 Looking at those seated in a circle around Him, He said,“Here [are] My mother and My brothers! 35 For whoever does the will of God is My brother and sister[fn] and mother.[fn]” 4 

The Parable of the Sower

(Matthew 13:1–9, Luke 8:4–8)

[Once] again [Jesus] began to teach beside the sea, and [such] a large crowd gathered around Him that He got into the boat[fn] [and] sat in [it], while all the people crowded along the shore.

And He taught them many things in parables, and in His teaching He said 3 “Listen A farmer went out to sow his seed. 4 And as he was sowing, some [seed] fell along the path, and the birds[fn] came and devoured it.

Some fell on rocky ground, where vvv it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly because the soil was shallow 6 But when the sun rose, [the seedlings] were scorched, and they withered because they had no root.

Other [ seed ] fell among thorns, [which] grew up and choked [the seedlings], and [they] yielded no crop.

Still other [seed] fell on good soil, [where it] sprouted, grew up, and produced a crop — one bearing thirtyfold, another sixtyfold, and another a hundredfold.”

Then [Jesus] said,[fn]“He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

The Purpose of Jesus’ Parables

(Isaiah 6:1–13, Matthew 13:10–17, Luke 8:9–10)

As soon as [Jesus] was alone [with] the Twelve and those around Him, they asked Him [about] the parable.[fn]

He replied“To know[fn] the mystery of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to those on the outside everything is expressed in parables, 12 so that,

‘vvv they may be ever seeing [but] never perceiving,

and vvv ever hearing [but] never understanding;

otherwise they might turn

and be forgiven their sins.’[fn]”

The Parable of the Sower Explained

(Matthew 13:18–23, Luke 8:11–15)

Then [Jesus] said to them,“vvv Do you not understand this parable? Then how will you understand [any of] the parables?

The farmer sows the word. 15 [Some] are like the [seeds][fn] along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear [it], Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts.[fn]

[Some] are like the [seeds] sown on rocky ground. [They] hear the word [and] at once receive it with joy. 17 But they themselves have no root, [and] they remain for only a season. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, vvv they quickly fall away.

[Others] are like the [seeds] sown among the thorns. [They] hear the word, 19 but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth, and the desire for other things come in [and] choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful.

Still [others] are like the [seeds] sown on good soil. [They] hear the word, receive [it], and produce a crop — thirtyfold, sixtyfold, [or] a hundredfold.”

The Lesson of the Lamp

(Luke 8:16–18)

vvv [Jesus] also said to them,“Does [anyone] bring in a lamp vvv to put [it] under a basket or under a bed? Doesn’t he set it on a stand? 22 For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing vvv concealed that will [not] be brought to light.

If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.”

He went on to say“Pay attention to what you hear. With [the] measure you [use], it will be measured to you, and even more will be added to you who hear.[fn] 25 For whoever has will be given [more]. [But] whoever vvv does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.”

The Seed Growing Secretly

vvv [Jesus] also said,“The kingdom of God is like a man who scatters seed on the ground. 27 Night and day he sleeps and wakes, and the seed sprouts and grows, [though] he knows not how. 28 For[fn] all by itself the earth produces a crop— first [the] stalk, then [the] head, then grain [that] ripens within 29 And as soon as the grain is ripe, he swings the sickle, because the harvest has come.[fn]”

The Parable of the Mustard Seed

(Matthew 13:31–32, Luke 13:18–19)

Then He asked,“To what can we compare the kingdom of God? With what parable shall we illustrate[fn] it? 31 It is like a mustard seed which [ is the] smallest of all seeds sown upon the earth. 32 But after it is planted, it grows to be the largest of all garden plants and puts forth great branches, so that the birds of the air nest in its shade.”

vvv With many such parables [Jesus] spoke the word to them, to the extent that they could understand. 34 vvv He did not tell them [anything] without using a parable. But vvv privately He explained everything to His own disciples.

Jesus Calms the Storm

(Psalm 107:1–43, Matthew 8:23–27, Luke 8:22–25)

When that vvv vvv evening came, He said to [His disciples],“Let us cross to the other side.” 36 After they had dismissed the crowd, they took [Jesus] with them since He was already in the boat. And there were other little boats[fn] with Him.

Soon a violent windstorm came up, and the waves were breaking over the boat, so that it vvv was being swamped.[fn] 38 But [Jesus] was in the stern, sleeping on the cushion. [So] they woke Him and said“Teacher, vvv don’t You care that we are perishing?”

Then [Jesus] got up [and] rebuked the wind and the sea.“Silence!” He commanded.“Be still!” And the wind died down, and it was perfectly calm.

“Why are you so afraid?” He asked“How[fn] do you still have no faith?”

Overwhelmed with fear they asked one another,“Who then[fn] is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?” 5 

The Demons and the Pigs

(Matthew 8:28–34, Luke 8:26–39)

On the other side of the sea, they arrived in the region of the Gadarenes.[fn] 2 As soon as [Jesus] got out of the boat, He was met by a man with an unclean spirit, [who was] coming from the tombs. 3 [This man] had been living in the tombs and could not be restrained [even] with chains. 4 [Though] he {was} often bound with chains and shackles, he had broken the chains and shattered the shackles. Now [there was] no one with the strength to subdue him. 5 vvv vvv Night and day in the mountains and in the tombs[fn] he kept crying out and cutting himself with stones.

When [the man] saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and fell on his knees before Him. 7 And he shouted vvv in a loud voice“What do You [want] with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg You before God not to torture me!” 8 For [Jesus] had already declared“Come out of [this] man {you} unclean spirit!”

“What [is] your name?” [Jesus] asked

“My name [is] Legion,” vvv he replied,“for we are many.” 10 And he begged [Jesus] repeatedly vvv vvv not to send them out of [that] region.

There on the nearby hillside a large herd of pigs was feeding. 12 [So] all the demons begged[fn] [Jesus]“Send us to the pigs, so that we may enter them.”

So Jesus immediately gave them permission and the unclean spirits came out [and] went into the pigs, and the herd of about two thousand rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned in the [water].[fn]

Those tending [the pigs][fn] ran off and reported [this] in the town and countryside, and [the people] went out to see what vvv vvv had happened. 15 When they came to Jesus, they saw the [man] who had been possessed by the legion {of demons} sitting [there], clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid.

Those who had seen [it] described what had happened to the demon-possessed man and [also to] the pigs. 17 And [the people] began to beg [Jesus] to leave their region.

As He was getting into the boat, the [man] who had been possessed by the demons begged to go with Him. 19 But Jesus vvv would not allow him.“Go vvv vvv home to your own [people],” He said“and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and what mercy He has shown you.”

[So] [the man] went away and began to proclaim throughout the Decapolis[fn] how much Jesus had done for him. And everyone was amazed.

The Healing Touch of Jesus

(Matthew 9:18–26, Luke 8:40–56)

When Jesus had again crossed by boat to the other side, a large crowd gathered around Him beside the sea. 22 And behold,[fn] a synagogue leader named Jairus arrived, and seeing [Jesus], he fell at His feet 23 and pleaded with Him urgently“My little daughter is near death. [Please] come [and] place [Your] hands on her so that she will be healed, and she will live.[fn]”

So [Jesus] went with him, and a large crowd followed and pressed around Him. 25 And a woman [was there] who had suffered vvv vvv from bleeding for twelve years. 26 She had borne much {agony} under the care of many physicians and had spent all vvv she had, but to no avail. vvv Instead, [her condition] had only grown vvv vvv worse.

When [the woman] heard about Jesus, she came up through the crowd behind [Him] [and] touched His cloak. 28 For she kept saying“If only I touch His garments, I will be healed.” 29 vvv Immediately her vvv vvv bleeding stopped, and she sensed in [her] body that she was healed of [her] affliction.

At once Jesus was aware [that] power had gone out from Him. Turning to the crowd, He asked,“Who touched My garments?”

His disciples answered“You can see the crowd pressing in on You, and yet You ask,‘Who touched Me?’ ”

But He kept looking around to see who had done this. 33 Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell down before Him trembling in fear, and she told Him the whole truth.

“Daughter,” said [Jesus]“your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be free of your affliction.”

vvv vvv While He was still speaking, [ messengers ] from [the house of Jairus] arrived [and] said,“Your daughter is dead; why bother the Teacher anymore?”

But Jesus overheard[fn] vvv vvv their conversation and immediately[fn] said to [Jairus],“{Do} not be afraid; just believe.” 37 And vvv He did not allow anyone to accompany Him except Peter, James, and John the brother of James.

When He arrived[fn] at the house of the synagogue leader, [Jesus] saw [the] commotion [and the people] weeping and wailing loudly. 39 He went inside [and] asked“Why all this commotion and weeping? The child vvv is not dead, but asleep.” 40 And they laughed at Him.

[After] He had put them all outside He took the child’s father and mother and His own companions and went in where the child was lying.[fn] 41 Taking [her] by the hand, [Jesus] said“Talitha koumi![fn]” which vvv means,“Little girl, I say to you, get up!” 42 Immediately the girl got up and began to walk around she was twelve years old). And[fn] they were utterly astounded 43 Then [Jesus] gave strict orders that no one should know about this, and He told [them] to give her [something] to eat. 6 

The Rejection at Nazareth

(Matthew 13:53–58, Luke 4:16–30)

[Jesus] went on from there and came to His hometown, accompanied by His disciples. 2 [When] [the] Sabbath came, He began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard [Him] were astonished.“Where [did] this [man get] these [ideas]?” they asked. What [is] [this] wisdom He has been given And [how can] He perform such miracles? 3 Isn’t this the carpenter, the son of Mary and [the] brother of James, Joses,[fn] Judas, and Simon? Aren’t His sisters here with us as well?” And they took offense at Him.

Then Jesus said to them,“Only in his hometown, among his relatives, and in his [own] household is a prophet without honor.” 5 [So] vvv He could not perform [any] miracles there, except to lay [His] hands on a few of the sick [and] heal [them]. 6 And He was amazed at their unbelief.

And He went around from village to village, teaching [the people].

The Ministry of the Twelve

(Matthew 10:5–15, Luke 9:1–6)

Then [Jesus] called the Twelve {to Him} and began to send them out two [by] two, giving them authority over unclean spirits. 8 He instructed them to take nothing but a staff for [the] journey — no bag, no bread,[fn] no money[fn] in their belts — 9 [and] to wear sandals, [but] not a second tunic.

And He told them,“When you enter a house, stay there until you leave that area. 11 If anyone vvv will not welcome you or listen to you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that place, as a testimony against them. Truly I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom [and] Gomorrah on [the] day of judgment than for that town.[fn]”

[So] they set out [and] preached that [the people] should repent. 13 vvv They also drove out many demons and healed many of the sick, anointing [them] with oil.

The Beheading of John

(Matthew 14:1–12, Luke 9:7–9)

Now King Herod heard about this( for [Jesus’] name had become well known) and he said“John the Baptist has risen from [the] dead! That is why miraculous powers are at work in him.” 15 Others were saying,“He is Elijah,” and still others“He is a prophet, like[fn] one of the prophets [of old].”

But when Herod heard this, he said,“This is John, whom I beheaded; he has risen from the dead!”[fn] 17 For Herod himself had ordered that John be arrested and bound vvv [and] imprisoned, on account of his brother Philip’s wife Herodias, [whom] [Herod] had married. 18 For John had been telling Herod,“vvv It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife!”

So Herodias held a grudge against [John] and wanted to kill him. But vvv she had been unable, 20 because Herod feared John and protected him, knowing [that] he [was] a righteous and holy man. When he heard [John’s words], he did much [of what he said];[fn] and he listened to him gladly.

On [Herod’s] birthday, [her] opportunity arose. Herod held a banquet for his nobles and military commanders and the leading [men] of Galilee. 22 [When] the daughter of Herodias[fn] came and danced, she pleased Herod and vvv his guests, and the king said to the girl,“Ask me for whatever vvv you wish, and I will give [it] to you.” 23 And he swore[fn] to her“Whatever vvv you ask of me, I will give you, up to half my kingdom!”

Then she went out [and] asked her mother,“What should I request?”

And [her mother] answered,“The head of John the Baptist.”

vvv At once [the girl] hurried back to the king with her request“I want you to give me the head of John the Baptist on a platter immediately.”

The king was consumed with sorrow, but because of [his] oaths and vvv his guests, vvv he did not want to refuse her. 27 So without delay, the king commanded that John’s head be brought in. He sent an executioner, who went [and] beheaded him in the prison. 28 [The man] brought [John’s] head on a platter and presented it to the girl, [who] gave it to her mother.

When [John’s] disciples heard about [this], they came and took his body and placed it in [a] tomb.

The Feeding of the Five Thousand

(Matthew 14:13–21, Luke 9:10–17, John 6:1–15)

Meanwhile, the apostles gathered around Jesus and brought Him news of all they had done and taught. 31 And He said to them,“Come with Me vvv privately to [a] solitary place, and let us rest for a while.” For many [people] were coming and going, and vvv they did not even have time to eat.

So they went away in the boat[fn] by themselves to a solitary place. 33 But many [people] saw them leaving and recognized Him.[fn] They ran together on foot from all the towns and arrived before them. 34 When Jesus stepped ashore [and] saw a large crowd, He had compassion on them, because they were like sheep vvv without a shepherd. And He began to teach them many things.

By now the hour was already late. [So] the disciples came to [Jesus] [and] said“This is a desolate place, and the hour [is] already late. 36 Dismiss [the crowd] so they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages [and] buy themselves food for they have nothing to eat.[fn]”

But [Jesus] told them,“You give them [something] to eat.”

They asked Him,“Should we go out [and] spend two hundred denarii[fn] to give all of them bread to eat?”

“Go and see how many loaves you have,” He told them.

And after checking, they said,“Five — and two fish.”

Then [Jesus] directed them vvv to have [the people] sit vvv in groups on the green grass. 40 So they sat down vvv in groups of hundreds and fifties.

Taking the five loaves and the two fish [and] looking up to heaven, [Jesus] spoke a blessing and broke the loaves. Then He gave [them] to His disciples to set before [the people]. And He divided the two fish among them all.

{They} all ate and were satisfied, 43 and [the disciples] picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish. 44 And there were five thousand[fn] men who had eaten the loaves.

Jesus Walks on Water

(Matthew 14:22–33, John 6:16–21)

Immediately [Jesus] made His disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of [Him] to Bethsaida, while He dismissed the crowd. 46 After bidding them farewell He went up on the mountain to pray.

When evening came, the boat was in the middle of the sea, and [Jesus was] alone on land. 48 He could see that [the disciples] were straining vvv vvv to row, because the wind was against them. About [the] fourth watch of the night,[fn] [Jesus] went out to them, walking on the sea. He intended to pass by them, 49 but when they saw Him walking on the sea, they cried out, thinking [He] was a ghost — 50 for they all saw Him and were terrified

But [Jesus] spoke up at once“Take courage! [It] is I. {Do} not be afraid.” 51 Then He climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. And [the disciples were] utterly astounded beyond measure, and were marveling.[fn] 52 For vvv they had not understood about the loaves because[fn] their hearts had been hardened.

Jesus Heals at Gennesaret

(Matthew 14:34–36)

When they had crossed over, they came to the land of Gennesaret[fn] and moored [the boat]. 54 As soon as they got out of the boat, [the people] recognized [Jesus] 55 [and] ran through that whole surrounding region,[fn] vvv carrying the sick on mats to wherever they heard He was. 56 And wherever He went villages [and] towns [and] countrysides — they laid the sick in the marketplaces and begged Him just to let them touch the fringe of His cloak. And all who touched Him were healed. 7 

The Tradition of the Elders

(Matthew 15:1–9)

Then the Pharisees and some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem gathered around [Jesus]. 2 And seeing some of His disciples eating [with] hands [that were] defiled( that is, unwashed), they found fault.[fn]

Now in holding to the tradition of the elders, the Pharisees and all the Jews {do} not eat until they wash [their] hands ceremonially.[fn] 4 And [on returning] from the market, vvv they do not eat unless they wash. And there are many other traditions for them to observe, [including] the washing of cups, pitchers, kettles, and couches for dining.[fn]

So the Pharisees and scribes questioned [Jesus]:“Why {do} Your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders? Instead, they eat with unwashed[fn] hands.”

Jesus answered them,“Isaiah prophesied correctly about you hypocrites, as it is written:

‘These people honor Me with [their] lips,

but their hearts are far from Me.

They worship Me in vain;

they teach [as] doctrine [the] precepts of men.’[fn]

You have disregarded the commandment of God to keep the tradition of men— the washing of pitchers and cups, and many other similar things you do.[fn]”

vvv He went on to say“vvv You neatly set aside the command of God to maintain[fn] your [own] tradition. 10 For Moses said,‘Honor your father and your mother’[fn] and‘Anyone who curses [his] father or mother vvv must be put to death.’[fn] 11 But you say that if a man says to [his] father or mother,‘Whatever you would have received from me [is] Corban’ (that is, a gift devoted [to God] ), 12 he [is] no longer permitted to do anything for his father or mother. 13 [Thus] you nullify the word of God by [the] tradition you have handed down. And you do so in many such [matters].”

What Defiles a Man

(Matthew 15:10–20)

Once again [Jesus] called the whole crowd[fn] [to Him and] said“All of you, listen to Me and understand: 15 Nothing that enters a man from the outside can defile him; but the things that come out of a man, these are what defile [him]. 16 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.”[fn]

After [Jesus] had left the crowd [and gone] into [the] house, His disciples inquired about the parable.

“Are you still so dull?” He asked“vvv Do you not understand? Nothing that enters a man from the outside vvv can defile him, 19 because vvv it does not enter his heart, but [it goes] into the stomach and then is eliminated [thus] purifying all foods.”[fn]

He continued“What comes out of a man, that [is what] defiles [him]. 21 For from within the hearts of men come evil thoughts, adultery, sexual immorality, murder, theft,[fn] 22 greed, wickedness, deceit, debauchery, envy slander, arrogance, [and] foolishness. 23 All these evils come from within, and [these are what] defile a man.”

The Faith of the Gentile Woman

(Matthew 15:21–28)

[Jesus] left that place [and] went to the region of Tyre and Sidon.[fn] Not wanting anyone to know [He was there], He entered [a] house, but vvv was unable to escape their notice. 25 For[fn] a woman whose little daughter had [an] unclean spirit heard[fn] about Jesus, [and] she came [and] fell at His feet. 26 Now she was a Greek woman of Syrophoenician origin, and she kept asking [Jesus] to drive the demon out of her daughter.

“First let the children have their fill,” Jesus said“For it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss [it] to the dogs.”

“Yes, Lord,” she replied“for[fn] even the dogs[fn] under the table eat the children’s crumbs.”

Then [Jesus] told her,“Because of this answer, you may go. The demon has left your daughter.” 30 And she went vvv vvv vvv home [and] found [the] demon was gone, and [her] daughter was lying on the bed.[fn]

The Deaf and Mute Man

(Matthew 9:27–34)

Then [Jesus] left the region of Tyre and Sidon [and] went toward the Sea of Galilee[fn] [and] into the region of [the] Decapolis.[fn] 32 [Some people] brought to Him a man who was deaf and hardly able to speak, and they begged [Jesus] to place [His] hand on him.

[So] [Jesus] took him aside privately, away from the crowd, [and] put His fingers into [the man’s] ears. Then He spit [and] touched [the man’s] tongue. 34 And looking up to heaven, He sighed deeply and said to him,“Ephphatha!” (which means,“Be opened!”). 35 Immediately[fn] [the man’s] ears were opened and his tongue vvv vvv vvv was released, and he began to speak plainly.

[Jesus] ordered them not to tell anyone But the more He ordered them, the more widely they proclaimed [it]. 37 [The people] were utterly astonished [and] said,“He has done all things well! He makes even the deaf hear and the mute speak!” 8 

The Feeding of the Four Thousand

(2 Kings 4:42–44, Matthew 15:29–39)

In those days [the] crowd[fn] became very large, and they had nothing vvv to eat. Jesus called His disciples[fn] [to Him and] said 2 “I have compassion for [this] crowd, because they have already been with Me three days and have nothing vvv to eat. 3 If I send them vvv vvv home hungry, they will faint along the way. For[fn] some [of them] have come vvv a great distance.”

His disciples replied“Where in this desolate place could anyone [find enough] bread to feed all these [people]?”

“How many loaves do you have?” [Jesus] asked

“Seven,” they replied.

And He instructed the crowd to sit down on the ground. Then He took the seven loaves, gave thanks [and] broke [them], and gave [them] to His disciples to set before [the people]. And they distributed [them] to the crowd. 7 They also had a few small fish, and [Jesus] blessed them [and] ordered that these be set before [them] as well.

[The people] ate and were satisfied, and [the disciples] picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 9 And about four thousand [men][fn] [who] had eaten[fn] were [ present ].

And when [Jesus] had dismissed [the crowd], 10 He immediately got into the boat with His disciples [and] went to the district of Dalmanutha.

The Demand for a Sign

(Matthew 16:1–4, Luke 12:54–56)

Then the Pharisees came and began to argue with [Jesus], testing Him [by] demanding from Him a sign from heaven.

[Jesus] sighed deeply in His spirit [and] said,“Why [does] this generation seek after[fn] a sign? Truly I tell you, no sign will be given to this generation.” 13 And He left them, got back into the boat [and] crossed to the other side.

The Leaven of the Pharisees and of Herod

(Matthew 16:5–12, Luke 12:1–3)

Now [the disciples] had forgotten to take bread, except for one loaf they had with them in the boat. 15 “Watch out!” He cautioned them“Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of Herod.”

[So] they began to discuss [this] with one another, saying,“[It is] because we have no bread.”[fn]

vvv Aware of [their conversation], Jesus asked them,“Why are you debating about having no bread? vvv Do you still not see or understand? {Do} you still[fn] have such hard hearts? 18 ‘Having eyes, vvv do you not see? And having ears, vvv do you not hear?’[fn] And vvv do you not remember? 19 When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of broken pieces did you collect?”

“Twelve,” they answered

“And when [I broke] the seven [loaves] for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of broken pieces did you collect?”

“Seven,” they said.

Then He asked them,“How[fn] vvv do you [still] not understand?”

The Blind Man at Bethsaida

[When] He arrived[fn] at Bethsaida, [some people] brought a blind [man] and begged [Jesus] to touch him. 23 So He took the blind [man] by the hand [and] led him out of the village. Then He spit on [the man’s] eyes [and] placed [His] hands on him, asking if he could see anything.[fn]

[The man] looked up [and] said,“I can see the people, [but] they look like trees walking around.”

Once again [Jesus] placed [His] hands on [the man’s] eyes and made him look up, and [his sight] was restored,[fn] and he could see everything clearly. 26 [Jesus] sent him vvv vvv home [and] said,“vvv Do not go back or tell anyone in the village.”[fn]

Peter’s Confession of Christ

(Matthew 16:13–20, Luke 9:18–20, John 6:67–71)

Then Jesus and His disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way, He questioned His disciples“Who {do} people say I am?”

They replied,“[Some say] John the Baptist; others [say] Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.”

“But [what about] you?” [Jesus] asked“Who do you say I am?”

Peter answered“You are the Christ.”

And [Jesus] warned them not to tell anyone about Him.

Christ’s Passion Foretold

(Matthew 16:21–23, Luke 9:21–22)

Then He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and [that] He must be killed and after three days rise [again]. 32 He spoke [this] message quite frankly, and Peter took Him aside [and] began to rebuke Him.

But [Jesus], turning and looking at His disciples, rebuked Peter [and] said,“Get behind Me, Satan! For vvv you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men.”

Take Up Your Cross

(Matthew 16:24–28, Luke 9:23–27)

Then [Jesus] called the crowd {to Him} along with His disciples, [and] He told them,“If anyone wants to follow after[fn] Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. 35 For whoever vvv wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and for the gospel will save it.

What shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world yet forfeits his soul?[fn] 37 Or[fn] what {can} a man give in exchange for his soul? 38 If anyone vvv is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man vvv will also be ashamed of him when He comes in His Father’s glory with the holy angels.” 9 

The Transfiguration

(Matthew 17:1–13, Luke 9:28–36, 2 Peter 1:16–21)

Then [Jesus] said to them,“Truly I tell you, there are some standing here who vvv vvv will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God arrive with power.”

After six days Jesus took with [Him] Peter, James, and John, and led them up a high mountain vvv [by] themselves [There] He was transfigured before them. 3 His clothes became radiantly white as snow,[fn] [brighter than] [any] launderer on earth could bleach them. 4 And Elijah [and] Moses appeared before them, talking with Jesus.

Peter vvv said to Jesus,“Rabbi, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters[fn]— one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 6 For they were all so terrified that vvv [Peter] did not know what else to say.

Then a cloud appeared [and] enveloped them, and a voice came from the cloud:[fn]“This is My beloved Son. Listen to Him!” 8 Suddenly, [when] they looked around, they saw no one with them except Jesus.

[As] they were coming down the mountain, [Jesus] admonished them not to tell anyone what they had seen vvv vvv until the Son of Man had risen from [the] dead. 10 [So] they kept this matter to themselves, discussing what it meant to rise from [the] dead. 11 And they asked [Jesus]“{Why do} the scribes say that Elijah must come first?”

He replied“Elijah {does} indeed come first, [and] he restores all things. Why then is it written that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected? 13 But I tell you that Elijah vvv has indeed come, and they have done to him whatever they wished, just as it is written about him.”

The Boy with an Evil Spirit

(Matthew 17:14–18, Luke 9:37–42)

[When] [Jesus] returned to the [other] disciples, He saw[fn] a large crowd around them, and scribes arguing with them. 15 As soon as all the people saw [Jesus], they were filled with awe and ran to greet Him.

“What are you disputing with them?” He asked the scribes.[fn]

Someone in the crowd replied“Teacher, I brought You my son, who has a spirit [that makes him] mute. 18 Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth, and becomes rigid.[fn] I asked Your disciples to drive it out but vvv they were unable.”

“O unbelieving generation!” [Jesus] replied.“How long must I remain with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring [the boy] to Me.”

So they brought him and seeing [Jesus], the spirit immediately threw [the boy] into a convulsion He fell to the ground [and] rolled around, foaming at the mouth.

[Jesus] asked [the boy’s] father,“How long {has} this been with him?”

“From childhood,” he said. 22 vvv It often throws him into [the] fire [or] into [the] water, trying to kill him. But if You can [do] anything, have compassion on us [and] help us.”

“If you can believe!” said Jesus“All things are possible to him who believes!”

Immediately the vvv boy’s father cried out with tears,“Lord, I do believe;[fn] help my unbelief!”

When Jesus saw that a crowd had come running, He rebuked the unclean spirit.“[You] mute and deaf[fn] spirit,” He said“I command you to come out and never enter him {again}.”

After shrieking and convulsing him violently, [the spirit] came out. [The boy] became like a corpse, so that many said“He is dead.” 27 But Jesus took him by the hand [and] helped him to his feet and he stood up.

After [Jesus] had gone into [the] house, His disciples asked Him vvv privately,“Why couldn’t we drive it out

[Jesus] answered“This kind cannot come out, except by prayer and fasting.[fn]”

The Second Prediction of the Passion

(Matthew 17:22–23, Luke 9:43–45)

Going on from there, they passed through Galilee. But vvv [Jesus] did not want anyone to know, 31 because He was teaching His disciples. He told them, The Son of Man will be delivered into [the] hands of men. They will kill Him, and on the third day[fn] He will rise.” 32 But they did not understand this statement, and they were afraid to ask Him [about it].

The Greatest in the Kingdom

(Matthew 18:1–5, Luke 9:46–50)

Then [Jesus] came to Capernaum.[fn] While He was in the house, He asked them,“What were you discussing among yourselves[fn] on the way?” 34 But they were silent, for on the way they had been arguing about which [of them was] [the] greatest.

Sitting down, [Jesus] called the Twelve and said“If anyone wants to be first, he must be [the] last of all and [the] servant of all.”

Then vvv He had a little child {stand} vvv among them. Taking [the child] in His arms He said to them, 37 “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in My name welcomes Me, and whoever welcomes Me welcomes not only Me, but the [One] who sent Me.”

John said to Him,“Teacher, we saw someone [who does] not follow You[fn] driving out demons in Your name, and we forbade him,[fn] because he does not accompany us.”

“{Do} not stop him,” Jesus replied.“For no one who performs a miracle in My name can turn around and speak evil of Me. 40 For whoever is not against you is for you.[fn] 41 Indeed, if anyone gives you [even] a cup of water in My name because you are Christ’s,[fn] truly I tell you, vvv vvv he will never lose his reward.

Temptations and Trespasses

(Matthew 18:6–9, Luke 17:1–4)

But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me {to stumble}, it would be better for him to have vvv a millstone[fn] hung around his neck and to be thrown into the sea.

If your hand causes you to sin cut it off It is better for you to enter life crippled than to have two hands [and] go into hell,[fn] into the unquenchable fire, 44 where ‘their worm never dies, and the fire vvv is never quenched.’[fn] 45 If your foot causes you to sin cut it off It is better for you to enter life lame than to have two feet [and] be thrown into hell, into the unquenchable fire,[fn] 46 where ‘their worm never dies, and the fire vvv is never quenched.’[fn] 47 And if your eye causes you to sin pluck it out It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes [and] be thrown[fn] into the fire of hell,[fn] 48 where ‘their worm[fn] never dies, and the fire vvv is never quenched.’[fn]

Good Salt

(Matthew 5:13–16, Luke 14:34–35)

For everyone will be salted with fire, and every sacrifice will be salted with salt.[fn]

Salt [is] good, but if the salt loses its saltiness, with what will you season it? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with one another.” 10 

Teachings about Divorce

(Matthew 19:1–12)

Then Jesus left that place [and] went into the region of Judea, beyond the Jordan. Again [the] crowds came to Him and He taught them, as was His custom.

[Some] Pharisees came to test Him.“vvv Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” they inquired

“What {did} Moses command you?” He replied

They answered,“Moses permitted [a man] to write [his wife] a certificate of divorce and send [her] away.”[fn]

But Jesus told them,“[Moses] wrote this commandment for you because of your hardness of heart. 6 However, from [the] beginning of creation, God made them male and female.’[fn] 7 ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife,[fn] 8 and the two will become one flesh.’[fn] So they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9 Therefore what God has joined together, {let} man not separate.”

When [they were] back inside the house, His disciples[fn] asked [Jesus] about this matter. 11 [So] He told them,“Whoever divorces his wife and marries another [woman] commits adultery against her. 12 And if a woman divorces her husband [and] marries another [man], she commits adultery.”

Jesus Blesses the Children

(Matthew 19:13–15, Luke 18:15–17)

Now [people] were bringing [the] little children to [Jesus] for Him to place His hands on them, and the disciples rebuked those who brought them.[fn]

But [when] Jesus saw this, He was indignant and told them,“Let the little children come to Me, [and] {do} not hinder them! For the kingdom of God belongs to such [as these]. 15 Truly I tell you, anyone who vvv vvv does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child vvv vvv will never enter it.” 16 And He took [the children] in His arms, placed [His] hands on them, [and] blessed them.

The Rich Young Man

(Matthew 19:16–30, Luke 18:18–30)

As [Jesus] started on His way, [a man][fn] ran up and knelt before Him.“Good Teacher,” he asked“what must I do to inherit eternal life?”

“Why do you call Me good?” Jesus replied“No one [is] good except God alone. 19 You know the commandments:‘{Do} not commit adultery, {do} not murder,[fn] {do} not steal, {do} not bear false witness, {do} not cheat [others], honor your father and mother.’[fn]”

“Teacher,” he replied“all these I have kept from my youth.”

Jesus looked at him, loved him, and said to him,“[There is] one thing you lack: Go,[fn] sell everything you own and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, take up the cross,[fn] [and] follow Me.”

But [the man] was saddened by [these] words [and] went away in sorrow, because he had great wealth.

Then Jesus looked around [and] said to His disciples,“How hard {it is} for the vvv vvv rich to enter the kingdom of God!”

And the disciples were amazed at His words.

But Jesus vvv said to them again,“Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches[fn] to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is[fn] easier [for] a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than [for] a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”

vvv They were even more astonished [and] said to one another,[fn]“Who then can be saved?”

Jesus looked at them [and] said,“With man [this is] impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.”

Peter began to say to Him,“Look, we have left everything and followed You.”

“Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or wife[fn] or children or fields for My sake and for the gospel 30 will fail to receive a hundredfold in the present age — vvv vvv houses and brothers and sisters[fn] and mothers and children and fields, along with persecutions — and in the age to come, eternal life. 31 But many [who are] first will be last, and the last [will be] first.”

The Third Prediction of the Passion

(Matthew 20:17–19, Luke 18:31–34)

[As] they were going up the road to Jerusalem, Jesus was walking ahead of them. [The disciples] were amazed, but as they followed, they were afraid.[fn] Again [Jesus] took the Twelve {aside} [and] began to tell them what was going to happen to Him: 33 “Look, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and scribes. They will condemn Him to death and will deliver Him {over} to the Gentiles, 34 [who] will mock Him and flog [Him] and spit on Him[fn] and kill Him. And on the third day[fn] He will rise again.”

The Request of James and John

(Matthew 20:20–28)

Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to [Jesus] [and] declared,“Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask.”

“What do you want Me to do for you?” He inquired

They answered“Grant that one of [us] may sit at Your right hand and [the other] at Your left in Your glory.”

“vvv You do not know what you are asking,” Jesus replied“Can you drink the cup I will drink, and[fn] be baptized [with] the baptism vvv vvv [I will undergo]?”

“We can,” [the brothers] answered

“You will indeed drink the cup that I drink,” Jesus said“and you will be baptized [with] the baptism that I [undergo]. 40 But to sit at My right and[fn] left is not Mine to grant. [These seats belong to those ] for whom[fn] they have been prepared.”

When the ten heard about [this], they became indignant with James and John. 42 So Jesus called them together [and] said“You know that those regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their superiors exercise authority over them. 43 But it shall not be[fn] this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be [the] slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life [as] a ransom for many.”

Jesus Heals Bartimaeus

(Matthew 20:29–34, Luke 18:35–43)

Next, they came to Jericho. And as [Jesus] and His disciples were leaving Jericho with a large crowd, a blind [man named] Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, was sitting beside the road begging.[fn] 47 When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out“Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”

Many [people] admonished him to be silent, but he cried out all the louder,“Son of David, have mercy on me!”

Jesus stopped and asked for him to be called over.[fn] So they called the blind [man].“Take courage!” they said“Get up! He is calling for you.”

Throwing off his cloak, [Bartimaeus] rose up[fn] [and] came to Jesus.

“What do you want Me to do for you?” Jesus asked

“Rabboni,” said the blind [man]“vvv let me see again.”

“Go,” said Jesus“your faith has healed you.” And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road. 11 

The Triumphal Entry

(Zechariah 9:9–13, Matthew 21:1–11, Luke 19:28–40, John 12:12–19)

As they approached Jerusalem [and came] to Bethphage[fn] and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, [Jesus] sent out two of His disciples 2 and said to them,“Go into the village ahead of you, and as soon as you enter it, you will find a colt tied [there], on which no one has sat.[fn] Untie it and bring [it here]. 3 If anyone asks‘Why are you doing this?’ tell [him]‘The Lord vvv needs it,’ and he will send it here immediately.[fn]”

So they went and found a colt[fn] outside in the street, tied at a doorway. They untied it, 5 and some who were standing there asked“Why are you untying the colt?”

[The disciples] answered as Jesus had commanded [them],[fn] and [the people] gave them permission 7 Then they led the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, and He sat on it.

Many [ in the crowd ] spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread [them] on the road.[fn] 9 The [ones who] went ahead and those who followed were shouting:

“Hosanna!”[fn]

“Blessed is He [who] comes in [the] name of [the] Lord!”[fn]

“Blessed [is] the kingdom of our father David [that is] coming in the name of the Lord!”[fn]

“Hosanna in the highest!”[fn]

Then Jesus entered Jerusalem and [went] into the temple [courts].[fn] He looked around at everything, [but since] [it] was already late, He went out to Bethany with the Twelve.

Jesus Curses the Fig Tree

(Matthew 21:18–22, Mark 11:20–25)

The next day, [when] they had left Bethany, [Jesus] was hungry. 13 Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, He went to see if there was any [fruit] on it. But when He reached it, He found nothing [on it] except leaves, since it was not the season for figs. 14 Then vvv Jesus[fn] said to [the tree],“{May} no one ever eat of your fruit {again}.” And His disciples heard [this statement].

Jesus Cleanses the Temple

(Matthew 21:12–17, Luke 19:45–48, John 2:12–25)

When they arrived in Jerusalem, Jesus entered the temple [courts] [and] began to drive out those who were buying and selling vvv vvv [there]. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those selling doves. 16 And vvv He would not allow anyone to carry merchandise through the temple [courts]. 17 Then [Jesus] began to teach them, and He declared,“vvv Is it not written‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations’[fn]? But you have made it‘a den of robbers.’[fn]”

When the chief priests and scribes[fn] heard [this], they looked for a way to kill Him. For they were afraid of Him, because the whole crowd was astonished at His teaching.

And when evening came, [Jesus] went[fn] out of the city.

The Withered Fig Tree

(Matthew 21:18–22, Mark 11:12–14)

[As] they were walking back in the morning, they saw the fig tree withered from [its] roots. 21 Peter remembered [it] [and] said“Look, Rabbi! The fig tree You cursed has withered.”

“Have faith in God,” Jesus vvv said to them. 23 “For truly[fn] I tell you that if anyone says to this mountain,‘Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and vvv has no doubt in his heart but believes that vvv [it] will happen, whatever he says will be done for him.[fn] 24 Therefore I tell you, vvv whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received [it],[fn] and [it] will be yours.

And when you stand to pray, if you hold anything against [another], forgive [it], so that your Father in heaven will forgive vvv your trespasses as well. 26 But if you {do} not forgive, neither {will} your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.”[fn]

Jesus’ Authority Challenged

(Matthew 21:23–27, Luke 20:1–8)

After their return to Jerusalem, [Jesus] was walking in the temple [courts], [and] the chief priests, scribes, and elders came up to Him. 28 “By what authority are You doing these things?” they asked“And[fn] who gave You the authority to do [them]?”

“I will also ask you one question,” Jesus replied“and [if] you answer Me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. 30 John’s baptism — was it from heaven or from men? Answer Me![fn]”

They deliberated among themselves“If we say,‘From heaven,’ He will ask,‘Why then vvv did you not believe him?’ 32 But if we say,‘From men’ ...” they were afraid of the people, for they all held that John truly was a prophet. 33 So they answered vvv“We do not know.”

And Jesus vvv replied“Neither {will} I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.” 12 

The Parable of the Wicked Tenants

(Matthew 21:33–46, Luke 20:9–18)

Then [Jesus] began to speak to them in parables:“A man planted a vineyard. He put a wall {around it}, dug a wine vat, and built a watchtower. Then he rented it out to [some] tenants and went away on a journey.

At harvest time, he sent a servant to the tenants to collect [his share] of the fruit of the vineyard. 3 But they seized [the servant], beat [him], and sent [him] away empty-handed.

Then he sent them another servant, and casting stones[fn] they struck {him} over the head and sent [him] away,[fn] treating [him] shamefully.

He sent still another, and this one they killed.

[He sent] many others; some they beat and [others] they killed.

vvv Finally, having his[fn] one beloved son, he sent him to them last.[fn]‘They will respect my son,’ he said

But [the] tenants said[fn] to one another‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ 8 So they seized [the son], killed him, and threw [him] out of the vineyard.

What then[fn] {will} the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and kill [those] tenants, and will give the vineyard to others. 10 vvv Have you never read this Scripture:

‘[The] stone the builders rejected

has become the vvv cornerstone.

This is from [the] Lord,

and it is marvelous in our eyes’[fn]?”

At this, [the leaders] sought[fn] to arrest [Jesus], for they knew that He had spoken [this] parable against them. But fearing the crowd, they left Him [and] went away.

Paying Taxes to Caesar

(Matthew 22:15–22, Luke 20:19–26)

Later, they sent some of the Pharisees and Herodians to catch [Jesus] in [His] words. 14 “Teacher,” vvv they said“we know that You are honest and vvv seek favor from no one. Indeed, vvv You are impartial [and] teach the way of God in accordance with [the] truth. Is it lawful[fn] to pay taxes to Caesar or not? Should we pay [them] or not

But [Jesus] saw through their hypocrisy [and] said“Why are you testing Me? Bring Me a denarius[fn] to inspect.” 16 [So] they brought [it], and He asked them,“Whose image [is] this? And [whose] inscription?”

“Caesar’s,” they answered

vvv In response[fn] Jesus told them,“Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”

And they marveled at Him.

The Sadducees and the Resurrection

(Matthew 22:23–33, Luke 20:27–40)

Then the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to [Jesus] and questioned Him 19 “Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies and leaves a wife but no children, vvv vvv [the man] is to marry [his brother’s] widow and raise up offspring for [him].[fn] 20 [Now] there were seven brothers. The first [one] married and died, leaving no children. 21 Then the second [one] married [the widow], [but] he also died [and] left no children. And the third [did] likewise. 22 In this way, none of the seven [who] had her[fn] left [any] children. And last of all, the woman died. 23 In the resurrection, [then] whose wife will she be? For [all] seven were married to her.”

Jesus answered them,[fn]“vvv Aren’t you mistaken because vvv you do not know the Scriptures [or] the power of God? 25 When the dead rise vvv they will neither marry nor be given in marriage. Instead, they will be like the angels in heaven.

But concerning the dead rising, vvv have you not read about the [burning] bush in the Book of Moses, how God told him‘I [am] the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’[fn]? 27 He is not [the] God of [the] dead, but the God[fn] of [the] living. Therefore[fn] you vvv are badly mistaken!”

The Greatest Commandment

(Deuteronomy 6:1–19, Matthew 22:34–40)

Now one of the scribes had come up and heard their debate. Noticing how well [Jesus] had answered them, he asked Him,“Which commandment is [the] most important of all?”

Jesus replied,“This is the most important of all the commandments:[fn]‘Hear, O Israel, [the] Lord our God, [the] Lord is One. 30 Love [the] Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’[fn] This [is] the first commandment.[fn] 31 [The] second, like [it],[fn] [is] this:‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’[fn] No other commandment is greater than these.”

“Right, Teacher,” the scribe replied“You have stated vvv correctly that [God] is One and there is no other but Him, 33 and to love Him with all [your] heart and with all [your] understanding and with all [your] soul[fn] and with all [your] strength, and to love [your] neighbor as yourself. This is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.”

When Jesus saw that [the man] had answered wisely, He said“You are not far from the kingdom of God.”

And no one dared to question Him [any] further.

Whose Son Is the Christ?

(Matthew 22:41–46, Luke 20:41–44)

While [Jesus] was teaching in the temple [courts],[fn] [He] asked,“How {can} the scribes say that the Christ is [the] Son of David? 36 Speaking by the Holy Spirit, David himself declared:

‘[The] Lord said to my Lord,

“Sit at My right hand

until I make Your enemies

a footstool for Your feet.” ’[fn]

Therefore[fn] David himself calls Him‘Lord.’ So how can He be [David’s] son?”

And the large crowd listened to Him with delight.

Beware of the Scribes

(Luke 20:45–47)

In His teaching vvv [Jesus] also said to them,[fn]“Watch out for the scribes. They like to walk around in long robes, [to receive] greetings in the marketplaces, 39 and [to have] the chief seats in the synagogues and [the] places of honor at banquets. 40 They defraud widows [of their] houses,[fn] and for a show make lengthy prayers. These [men] will receive greater condemnation.”

The Widow’s Offering

(Luke 21:1–4)

As Jesus was sitting opposite the treasury, He watched the crowd putting money into [it]. And many rich [people] put in large amounts. 42 Then one poor widow came [and] put [in] two small copper coins, which amounted to a small fraction of a denarius.[fn]

[Jesus] called His disciples {to Him} [and] said“Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more than all the [others] into the treasury. 44 For they all contributed out of their surplus, but she out of her poverty has put [in] all she had vvv vvv vvv to live on.” 13 

Temple Destruction and Other Signs

(Matthew 24:1–8, Luke 21:5–9)

As [Jesus] was leaving the temple, one of His disciples said to Him,“Teacher, look at [the magnificent] stones and buildings!”

“Do you see [all] these great buildings?” Jesus replied“Not [one] stone[fn] will be left on [another]; [every one] vvv vvv will be thrown down.”

While [Jesus] was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked Him vvv privately, 4 “Tell us, when {will} these things happen? And what [will be] the sign that vvv [they] are about to be fulfilled?”

In response,[fn] Jesus began by telling them,“See to it [that] [no one] deceives you. 6 For[fn] many will come in My name, claiming,‘I am [He],’ and will deceive many. 7 When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, {do} not be alarmed. For [ these things ] must happen, but the end [is] still to come. 8 Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, [as well as] famines and riots.[fn] These [are] [the] beginning of birth pains.

Witnessing to All Nations

(Matthew 24:9–14, Luke 21:10–19)

[So] be on your guard For you will be delivered over to [the] councils and beaten in [the] synagogues. On My account you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them. 10 And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all the nations. 11 But when they arrest you [and] hand [you] over, {do} not worry beforehand or premeditate[fn] what to say. Instead, speak whatever you are given at that time, for it will not be you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.

Brother will betray brother to death, and a father [his] child. Children will rise against [their] parents and vvv have them put to death. 13 You will be hated by everyone because of My name, but the [one who] perseveres to [the] end will be saved.

The Abomination of Desolation

(Matthew 24:15–25, Luke 21:20–24)

So when you see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet,[fn] standing where vvv it should not be[fn] ({let} the reader understand), then {let} those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. 15 {Let} [no one] on the housetop vvv go back inside the house[fn] to retrieve anything from his house. 16 And {let} [no one] in the field vvv return for his cloak.

[How] miserable those days [will be] for pregnant and nursing [mothers]! 18 Pray that your flight[fn] vvv will not occur in the winter. 19 For those will be days of tribulation unmatched from [the] beginning of God’s creation until now, and never to be [seen again]. 20 If [the] Lord vvv had not cut short those days, nobody vvv would be saved. But for the sake of the elect, whom He has chosen, He has cut them short

At that time if anyone says to you,‘Look, here [is] the Christ!’ or‘There [He is]!’ vvv do not believe [it]. 22 For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform signs and wonders that would deceive even[fn] the elect, if [that were] possible. 23 [So] vvv be on your guard; see,[fn] I have told you everything {in advance}.

The Return of the Son of Man

(Matthew 24:26–31, Luke 21:25–28)

But in those days, after that tribulation:

‘The sun will be darkened,

and the moon vvv will not give its light;

the stars will fall from the sky,

and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.’[fn]

vvv At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in [the] clouds with great power and glory.[fn] 27 And He will send out His angels[fn] to gather His elect from the four winds, from [the] ends of [the] earth to [the] ends of heaven.

The Lesson of the Fig Tree

(Matthew 24:32–35, Luke 21:29–33)

Now learn this lesson[fn] from the fig tree: As soon as its branches become tender and sprout leaves, you know[fn] that summer is near. 29 So also, when you see these things happening, know that He is near,[fn] right at [the] door. 30 Truly I tell you, this generation vvv vvv will not pass away until all these things have happened. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words vvv vvv will never pass away.

Readiness at Any Hour

(Matthew 24:36–51, Luke 12:35–48)

No one knows about that day or[fn] hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Be on your guard, stay alert, and pray![fn] For vvv you do not know when the appointed time will come.

[It is] like a man going on a journey [who] left his house, put each servant in charge of his [own] task, and instructed the doorkeeper to keep watch. 35 Therefore keep watch, because vvv you do not know when the master of the house will return — whether in the evening, at midnight, when the rooster crows, or in the morning. 36 Otherwise, he may arrive without notice [and] find you sleeping. 37 And what I say to you, I say to everyone: Keep watch!” 14 

The Plot to Kill Jesus

(Matthew 26:1–5, Luke 22:1–2, John 11:45–57)

Now the Passover and the [Feast of] Unleavened Bread[fn] were two days away, and the chief priests and scribes were looking for vvv [a] covert way to arrest [Jesus] [and] kill [Him]. 2 “But not during the feast,” they said,“or there may be a riot among the people.”

Jesus Anointed at Bethany

(Matthew 26:6–13, Luke 7:36–50, John 12:1–8)

While [Jesus] was in Bethany vvv reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper,[fn] a woman came [with] an alabaster jar of expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke open the jar [and] poured [it] on [Jesus’] head.

Some [of] those present, however, expressed their indignation to one another and said,[fn]“Why this waste of perfume 5 [It] could have been sold for over three hundred denarii[fn] and [the money] given to the poor.” And they scolded her.

But Jesus said,“Leave her alone why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful deed to Me. 7 The poor vvv you will always have with you,[fn] and you can vvv help them whenever you want. But {you will} not always have Me. 8 She has done what she could to anoint My body in advance of [My] burial. 9 And truly I tell you, wherever this gospel[fn] is preached in all the world, what [she] has done vvv will also be told in memory of her.”

Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus

(Matthew 26:14–16, Luke 22:3–6)

Then Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve, went to the chief priests to betray [Jesus] to them. 11 They were delighted to hear [this], and they promised to give him money.

So [Judas] began to look for vvv an opportunity to betray [Jesus].

Preparing the Passover

(Matthew 26:17–19, Luke 22:7–13)

On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened [Bread],[fn] when the Passover lamb was to be sacrificed, [Jesus’] disciples asked Him,“Where do You want vvv us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?”

So He sent two of His disciples and told them,“Go into the city, and a man carrying a jug of water will meet you. Follow him, 14 and whichever {house} he enters, say to the owner,‘The Teacher asks: Where is the[fn] guest room, where I may eat the Passover with My disciples?’ 15 And he will show you a large upper room, furnished [and] ready. Make preparations for us there.”

So His disciples[fn] left and went into the city, [where] they found [everything] as [Jesus] had described And they prepared the Passover.

The Last Supper

(Matthew 26:20–30, Luke 22:14–23, 1 Corinthians 11:17–34)

When evening came, [Jesus] arrived with the Twelve. 18 And while they were reclining and eating, Jesus said,“Truly I tell you, one of you who is eating with Me will betray Me.”

They began to be grieved and to ask Him one after another,“Surely not I?” And another said,“[Is it] I?”[fn]

He answered“[It is] one of the Twelve — the [one who] is dipping [ his hand ][fn] into the bowl with Me. 21 The Son of Man vvv will go just as it is written about Him, but woe to that man by whom [He] is betrayed! It would be better for him if [he] vvv had not been born.”

vvv While they were eating, Jesus took bread, spoke a blessing [and] broke it, and gave [it] to [the disciples], saying,“Take [and] eat;[fn] this is My body.”

Then He took the cup, gave thanks, [and] gave it to them, and they all drank from it. 24 He said to them,“This is My blood of the new[fn] covenant, which is poured out for many. 25 Truly I tell you vvv vvv I will no longer drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it anew in the kingdom of God.”

And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial

(Zechariah 13:7–9, Matthew 26:31–35, Luke 22:31–38, John 13:36–38)

Then Jesus said to them, vvv“You will all fall away on account of Me this night,[fn] for it is written:

‘I will strike the Shepherd,

and the sheep will be scattered.’[fn]

But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.”

Peter declared“Even if all fall away, I vvv never [will].”

“Truly I tell you Jesus replied“this very night, before [the] rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.”

But [Peter] kept insisting all the more,[fn]“Even if I have to die with You, vvv vvv I will never deny You.” And all the others said the same thing

Jesus Prays at Gethsemane

(Matthew 26:36–46, Luke 22:39–46)

Then they came to a place called Gethsemane, and [Jesus] told His disciples,“Sit here while I pray.”

He took with Him Peter, James, and John, and began to be deeply troubled and distressed. 34 Then He said to them,“My soul is consumed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch.”

Going a little farther He fell to the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour would pass from Him. 36 “Abba, Father,” He said,“all things [are] possible for You. Take this cup from Me. Yet not what I will, but what You [will].”

Then [Jesus] returned and found them sleeping.“Simon, are you asleep?” He asked“vvv Were you not able to keep watch for one hour? 38 Watch and pray so that vvv you will not enter into temptation. For the spirit [is] willing, but the body [is] weak.”

Again He went away [and] prayed, saying the same thing. 40 And again [Jesus] returned [and] found them sleeping — for their eyes were heavy. And vvv they did not know what to answer Him.

[When] [Jesus] returned the third time, He said“vvv Are you still sleeping and resting? That is enough! The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42 Rise, let us go. See, My betrayer is approaching!”

The Betrayal of Jesus

(Matthew 26:47–56, Luke 22:47–53, John 18:1–14)

vvv While vvv vvv [Jesus] was still speaking, Judas,[fn] one of the Twelve, arrived, vvv vvv [accompanied by] a large[fn] crowd [armed] with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, scribes, and elders.

Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them“The One I kiss is [the man]; arrest Him and lead [Him] away securely.” 45 vvv Going directly to [Jesus], he said,“Rabbi, Rabbi!”[fn] and kissed Him.

Then [the men] seized [Jesus] and arrested Him. 47 And vvv one of the bystanders drew [his] sword [and] struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.

Jesus vvv asked [the crowd],“Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest Me as [you would] an outlaw? 49 Every day I was with you, teaching in the temple [courts],[fn] and vvv you did not arrest Me. But [this has happened] that the Scriptures would be fulfilled.”

Then everyone deserted Him [and] fled. 51 One young man who had been following [Jesus] was wearing a linen cloth around [his body]. The young men[fn] caught hold of [him], 52 but he pulled free of the linen cloth and ran away from them[fn] naked.

Jesus before the Sanhedrin

(Matthew 26:57–68, Luke 22:66–71, John 18:19–24)

They led Jesus {away} to the high priest, and all the chief priests, elders, and scribes assembled with him.[fn] 54 Peter followed Him at a distance, right vvv into the courtyard of the high priest. And vvv he sat with the officers and warmed himself by the fire.

Now the chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin[fn] were seeking testimony against Jesus to put Him to death but vvv they did not find [any]. 56 For many bore false witness against [Jesus], but their testimony was vvv inconsistent.

Then some [men] stood up [and] testified falsely against Him 58 “We heard Him say‘I will destroy this man-made temple, and in three days I will build another [that is] made without hands.’ ” 59 But even their testimony was vvv inconsistent.

[So] the high priest stood up vvv before them [and] questioned Jesus“vvv Have You no answer What {are} these [men] testifying against You?”

But [Jesus] remained silent and made no reply

Again the high priest questioned Him“Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed [One]?”

“I am,” said Jesus,“and you will see the Son of Man sitting at [the] right hand of Power[fn] and coming with the clouds of heaven.”[fn]

At this, the high priest tore his clothes [and] declared,“Why do we need any more witnesses? 64 You have heard the blasphemy. What is your verdict?”

And they all condemned Him as deserving of death.

Then some [of them] began to spit on Him. They blindfolded Him struck Him with their fists and said to Him,“Prophesy!”[fn] And the officers kept striking Him with the palms of their hands.[fn]

Peter Denies Jesus

(Matthew 26:69–75, Luke 22:54–62, John 18:15–18)

While Peter was in the courtyard below, one of the servant girls of the high priest came down 67 and saw [him] warming himself [there]. She looked at [Peter] [and] said,“You also were with Jesus the Nazarene.”

But he denied [it].“vvv I do not know or even understand what you are talking about,” he said. Then he went out to the gateway, and the rooster crowed.[fn]

[There] the servant girl saw him again [and][fn] said to those standing nearby,“This [man] is [one] of them.”

But he denied [it] again.

After a little while, those standing nearby said once more to Peter,“Surely you are one of them, for vvv you too are a Galilean and your speech is similar.[fn]”

But he began to curse and swear,“vvv I do not know this man of whom you speak!” 72 And[fn] [the] rooster crowed a second time.

Then Peter remembered the word that Jesus had spoken to him:“Before [the] rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” And he broke down [and] wept. 15 

Jesus Delivered to Pilate

(Matthew 27:1–2)

Early in the morning, the chief priests, elders, scribes, and the whole Sanhedrin[fn] devised a plan. They bound Jesus, led [Him] away, and handed [Him] over to Pilate.

So Pilate questioned Him,“Are You the King of the Jews?”

“You have said so,” [Jesus] replied

And the chief priests began to accuse Him of many things.[fn]

Then Pilate questioned Him again“vvv Have You no answer Look how many charges they are testifying against You![fn]”

But to Pilate’s amazement, Jesus made no further reply

The Crowd Chooses Barabbas

(Matthew 27:15–23, Luke 23:13–25)

Now {it was Pilate’s custom} at [the] feast to release to [the people][fn] a prisoner vvv of their choosing. 7 And [a man] named Barabbas was imprisoned with his fellow rebels[fn] who had committed murder during the insurrection. 8 [So] the crowd cried out[fn] [and] began asking [Pilate] to keep his custom

“Do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?” Pilate asked 10 For he knew [it was] out of envy that the chief priests had handed [Jesus] over

But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have him release Barabbas to them instead.

Pilate Delivers Up Jesus

(Matthew 27:24–26)

[So] Pilate asked them again,“What then do you want me to do[fn] with the [One] you call the King of the Jews?”

And they shouted back,“Crucify Him!”

“Why?” asked Pilate“What evil has He done?”

But they shouted all the louder,“Crucify Him!”

And wishing to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. But {he had} Jesus flogged, [and] handed Him over to be crucified.

The Soldiers Mock Jesus

(Isaiah 50:4–11, Matthew 27:27–31, Luke 22:63–65, John 19:1–15)

Then the soldiers led [Jesus] away into the palace (that is, [the] Praetorium) and called the whole company {together}. 17 They dressed Him in a purple robe, twisted together a crown of thorns, [and] set [it] on His [head]. 18 And they began to salute Him:[fn]“Hail, King of the Jews!”

They kept striking His head with a staff and spitting on Him. And they knelt down [and] bowed before Him. 20 After they had mocked Him, they removed the purple [robe] and put His own clothes [back] on Him. Then they led Him out to crucify Him.

The Crucifixion

(Psalm 22:1–31, Matthew 27:32–44, Luke 23:26–43, John 19:16–27)

[Now] Simon of Cyrene, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by on his way in from the country, and [the soldiers] forced [him] to carry the cross of [Jesus].

They brought [Jesus] to a place [called] Golgotha, which vvv means [The] Place of the Skull. 23 There they offered Him wine to drink[fn] mixed with myrrh, but He vvv did not take [it].

And they crucified Him.

They also divided His garments by casting lots to decide what [each of them] would take.[fn]

It was [the] third hour[fn] when they crucified Him. 26 And the charge inscribed against Him vvv read:

THE KING OF THE JEWS.

[Along] with [Jesus], they crucified two robbers,[fn] one on [His] right and one on His left. 28 So the Scripture was fulfilled that says,“And He was numbered with [the] transgressors.”[fn]

And those who passed by heaped abuse on Him, shaking their heads and saying,“Aha! You who are going to destroy the temple and rebuild [it] in three days, 30 come down from the cross and save Yourself!”

In the same way the chief priests and scribes mocked [Him] among themselves, saying,“He saved others, vvv [but] He cannot save Himself! 32 {Let} the Christ, the King of Israel, come down now from the cross, so that we may see and believe Him![fn]” And even those who were crucified with Him berated Him.

The Death of Jesus

(Psalm 22:1–31, Matthew 27:45–56, Luke 23:44–49, John 19:28–30)

From [the] sixth hour until [the] ninth hour[fn] darkness came over all the land. 34 At the ninth hour, Jesus cried out vvv in a loud voice,“Eloi, Eloi, lima[fn] sabachthani?” which vvv means,“My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”[fn]

When some of those standing nearby heard [this], they said,“Behold, He is calling Elijah.”

And someone ran and filled a sponge with sour wine.[fn] He put [it] on a reed and held it up for [Jesus] to drink saying,“Leave [Him] alone. Let us see if Elijah comes to take Him down

But Jesus let out vvv a loud cry [and] breathed His last. 38 And the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.

When the centurion standing there vvv in front of [Jesus] saw [how] He had cried out [and][fn] breathed His last, he said,“Truly this man was [the] Son of God!”

And there were also women watching from a distance. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses,[fn] and Salome. 41 [These women] had followed [Jesus] and ministered to Him while He was in Galilee, and [there were] many other [women] who had come up to Jerusalem with Him.

The Burial of Jesus

(Isaiah 53:9–12, Matthew 27:57–61, Luke 23:50–56, John 19:38–42)

Now it was already evening. Since it was Preparation Day (that is, [the day] before the Sabbath ), 43 Joseph of Arimathea, [a] prominent Council member who himself was waiting for the kingdom of God, boldly went to Pilate to ask for the body of Jesus.

Pilate was surprised [to hear] that vvv [Jesus] was already dead,[fn] so he summoned the centurion to ask if [this was so] 45 When [Pilate] had confirmed [it] with the centurion, he granted the body to Joseph.

So [Joseph] bought a linen cloth, took down [the body of Jesus], wrapped [it] in the cloth, and placed [it] in a tomb that had been cut out of [the] rock. Then he rolled a stone against the entrance to the tomb. 47 Mary Magdalene and Mary the [mother] of Joses[fn] saw where [His body] was placed. 16 

The Resurrection

(Matthew 28:1–10, Luke 24:1–12, John 20:1–9)

When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the [mother] of James, and Salome bought spices so they could go [and] anoint [the body of Jesus]. 2 Very early on the first [day] of the week,[fn] just after sunrise they went to the tomb. 3 They were asking one another,“Who will roll away the stone from the entrance of the tomb?” 4 But when they looked up, they saw that the stone had been rolled away, even though it was extremely large.

When they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. 6 But he said to them,“{Do} not be alarmed. You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here! See the place where they put Him. 7 But go, tell His disciples and Peter‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see Him, just as He told you.’ ”

So [the women] left the tomb and ran away,[fn] vvv trembling and bewildered. And vvv in their fear they did not say [a word to anyone].[fn]

Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene

(John 20:10–18)

Early [on the] first [day] of the week, after [Jesus] had risen,[fn] He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom He had driven out seven demons. 10 She went [and] told those who had been with Him, who were mourning and weeping. 11 And when they heard that [Jesus] was alive and she had seen Him they did not believe [it].

Jesus Appears to Two Disciples

(Luke 24:13–35)

After [this], [Jesus] appeared in a different form to two of them as they walked along in [the] country.

And they went back and reported [it] to the rest, but they did not believe them either.

The Great Commission

(Matthew 28:16–20)

Later, as they were eating, [Jesus] appeared to the Eleven and rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because vvv they did not believe those who had seen Him after He had risen.[fn]

And He said to them,“Go into all the world [and] preach the gospel to every creature. 16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will accompany[fn] those who believe: In My name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues;[fn] 18 they will pick up snakes,[fn] and if they drink any deadly poison, vvv vvv it will not harm them; they will lay [their] hands on [the] sick, and they will be made well.”

The Ascension

(Luke 24:50–53, Acts 1:6–11)

After the Lord[fn] had spoken to them, He was taken up into heaven and sat down at [the] right hand of God.

And they went out [and] preached everywhere, [and] the Lord worked through [them], confirming [His] word by the signs that accompanied [it]. Amen.[fn]