Joseph's Reaction to Mary's Pregnancy

Joseph sought to do what was best for Mary
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MATTHEW 1:19-25
I've been contemplating what Joseph's feelings might have been during all of this. He is not mentioned a whole lot, but we do get a glimpse into his thoughts during this part of the story. Keep in mind that he was betrothed to Mary, but had not yet consummated their marriage, yet she was found to be with child. This put him in a rather difficult position.

Matthew's account does not tell us whether Mary confessed to Joseph the means by which she had become pregnant, or if she's even the one that told him of her condition. One might assume that, when she got back from her three month visit with her cousin, Elisabeth, Mary did just that. However, he might have discovered it from a mutual acquaintance or noticed that she was starting to show. Remember that she was not yet living in his house, and we don't know how frequently they saw each other or conversed, or even how well they knew one other by this time. A betrothal did not necessarily equate to a longstanding affection, although it may have in some cases.

It is really hard to say exactly what Joseph thought of this news. Surely he was aware that she had been away for three months. He may have initially thought that his betrothed had been with another man while she was gone, for he knew that he had not lain with her himself. He likely would not have agreed to marry her in the first place had he not thought her to be a virtuous woman, so one could assume that he was rather shocked, to say the least, to think that she had committed adultery. Perhaps he even briefly feared that Mary had been raped. Did possible adverse reactions from his peers worry him? Would they look down upon him for marrying an unchaste woman, or would they think he had lain with her before she left for Elisabeth's? Obviously, Mary was not going to be able to hide her condition for long. Even if she remained in confinement, a baby would be forthcoming, and community members would soon realize the baby had arrived earlier than they would think acceptable.

Even not knowing yet at who's hands she had become pregnant, I would guess that Joseph felt let down. The bright future he looked forward to with her must have suddenly become so clouded. It seems that he didn't fully understand at first the bigger picture, and thought it wouldn't be right to follow through with marrying her, a woman pregnant with a child he had not fathered. Perhaps he even thought it would be a sin to do so. He was described, after all, as a just man. From this it could be concluded that he sought to follow the laws of God carefully.

According to the Law of Moses, which Joseph would have still felt loyal toward even though they were living under Roman rule by this time, he had several options. He could take her as his wife anyway, he could divorce her and leave her in the care of others, or he could bring the situation before the authorities and have her tried and possibly stoned to death. Becoming pregnant prior to marriage is very common now, but in ancient times it was unacceptable. This was not something to be taken lightly. Joseph was within his rights, maybe even duty bound, to see to it that justice was served.

Yet he thought less of his own shame and disappointment, and more of how to protect Mary from pain. The fact that Joseph chose a very lenient option tells us a lot about his character. Matthew stated the following: "Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily." (Matthew 1:19) In other words, he didn't want to bring attention to the situation, which would cause her punishment, shame or death. I think this speaks of his merciful, gentle personality. How many would have, instead, become angry and seen her held accountable to the fullest extent of the law? However, Joseph opposed severity in this matter and sought a consequence that was along the most lenient allowed, a private divorce in which the specifics need not be brought to light.

The power of divorcement was given to men only in Biblical times. The betrothal was considered binding, very similar to a marriage. Thus, legal means had to be pursued in order to dissolve it and still preserve Mary's life. A private divorce is what Joseph figured was best, but he had some thinking to do before going through with it. I would think that even a private divorce would have had some public aspect to it. If it was common knowledge that the two of them were betrothed, the community would need to be made aware that the agreement had been dissolved. Perhaps, at the least, it would have been done in front of a small number of witnesses. Undoubtedly, it was still a matter that weighed heavily on his mind, for he wished to spare her any shame.

Joseph, not wishing to be hasty or to make the wrong decision, took some time to ponder their precarious situation. Surely he was torn by what he felt he had to do. Even if Mary had told him that her pregnancy was of the Holy Ghost (we don't know if she did or didn't), she had no proof. The only way for Joseph to know for himself with complete certainty was for the message to come from God. That night or one soon thereafter, something very merciful happened, which put an end to Joseph's questions as to what to do. An angel appeared to him in a dream, telling him that he need not fear following through with taking Mary as his wife. It was then that he was told that her pregnancy was of the Holy Ghost, not man, and that her son was to be named Jesus, because He was to "save his people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21)

This was a direct fulfillment of prophecy that the Messiah would be born of a virgin. "Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." (Isaiah 7:14), something that Joseph and his people had watched for with hope. Obviously, Matthew drew this connection as well. "Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us." (Matthew 1:22-23) The name "Jesus" basically means "God is salvation". "Emmanuel" means "God with us". So, really, these two names explain a very similar meaning as to who Jesus is. He is our God and it is through Him that salvation is possible.

Imagine how Joseph "son of David" felt! He was to rear the Son of God! His betrothed had been chosen to bring Him into the world! The long awaited prophecy was soon to be fulfilled! It appears that he did not even hesitate after this. There are no more "while he thought on these things" (Matthew 1:20) phrases in this portion of the text, but the following instead: "Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife." (Matthew 1:24)

The last verse of the chapter reads, "And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus." The phrase "knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son" means that their marriage was not consummated until after she gave birth. This showed his great restraint. Perhaps we tend to gloss over this aspect of the story, but it was no small sacrifice, I am sure.

Joseph's kindness toward Mary
Photo Source ➚

In the coming months, as Mary's condition became more noticeable, Joseph stood by her. Mary was undoubtedly in confinement for much of her pregnancy, meaning that she would have remained largely out of sight, but how did family members in the community, aware of the situation, treat them? Were they supportive or judgmental?

This time period in their relationship probably bound them together in a union of trust. Mary trusted Joseph to protect her from shame, and Joseph trusted that Mary had been faithful to him and would continue to be. Both trusted God to see them through, and to allow them to raise up the Messiah, that He might fulfill his great mission. They undoubtedly had conversations about what the future might look like for their family and, specifically, for Jesus. Come what may, they would get through it together. What a great example of what marriages are meant to be like.

Joseph's reaction speaks of pure obedience and faith. He was slow to anger, reluctant to judge harshly, and was careful and thoughtful in his actions. He simply did what God wanted him to do, as soon as he knew what He expected of him. The more I think about it, the more I realize how much of "a just man" he really was. He sought to follow the law and to follow God, and was naturally kind toward the woman to whom he was espoused, even when all might have seemed against him. There is much to be learned from Joseph. He truly was a humble, obedient and just man.

Luke, Paul's Greek Physician

Luke may have been of Gentile descent, because of his name and his knowledge of the Greek language, and was possibly the only non-Jewish writer in the New Testament. (Bible Archaeology ➚) However, given his “intimate knowledge of the Old Testament and the focus of interest in his writings”, he may have been “a Jewish Christian who followed a Greek lifestyle and was comparatively lax in ritual observances.” (Britannica ➚) 

It is possible that Luke was a native of Syria and, more specifically, of the city of Antioch (Bible Archaeology ➚). Antioch was the capital of the Roman province of Syria, a city situated at the bend of a river where it breaks through the mountains about 300 miles north of Jerusalem, and about 15 miles from the Mediterranean Sea. In Paul’s time, Antioch was the third most important city of the Roman empire, with a population of more than 200,000 people. Many Jews settled in this picturesque city. In Antioch, the first Gentile church was established. Here, the Lord’s disciples were first referred to as Christians (International Standard Bible Encyclopedia). A part of the Anti-Marcionite Prologue to the Gospel of Luke that is believed to have been written in the 2nd century AD read, “Luke, was born in Antioch, by profession, was a physician. He had become a disciple of the apostle Paul and later followed Paul until his martyrdom. Having served the Lord continuously, unmarried and without children, filled with the Holy Spirit he died at the age of 84 years” (Wikipedia-Luke the Evangelist ➚). It is also possible that Luke’s hometown was, rather, Philippi, or perhaps he lived there at one point. (Bible Archaeology ➚)

It is believed that Luke was the beloved physician who was a companion to Paul during Paul’s extensive travels among the Gentiles, his journey to Jerusalem, and then to Rome where Paul was imprisoned. Luke could even be considered Paul’s personal physician (Bible Archaeology ➚). He was with Paul in Rome to the last, and was probably present when Paul was beheaded by the Romans. “Only Luke is with me,” said Paul (2 Timothy 4:11).

He was also a painter, said to have painted pictures of Mary and baby Jesus, as well as Peter and Paul. Luke was a historian as well, judging from the accuracy of his descriptions of towns, cities and islands, and official titles. However, his intention in his gospel writings was not so much historical as it was to record things of a more spiritual nature, to “proclaim and to persuade” (Wikipedia-Luke the Evangelist ➚).

Luke was first mentioned by Paul himself in Philemon, Colossians and 2 Timothy. Philemon 1:24 lists fellow laborers who were with him, being therein recorded as Lucas. Colossians 4:14 reads, “Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas greet you.” 2 Timothy 4:10-11 states, “For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.”

Luke was not an eyewitness of the Lord, but recorded life events that had been reported to him by those who were. (Luke 1:1 “Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those which are most surely believed among us, 2 Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word;”)

One of the oldest copies of part of the book of Luke, on papyrus, dating back to the 3rd century AD
Public domain tag {{PD-US}} ➚   Photo source ➚

Interestingly, Luke is the only writer of the gospels to record the Lord’s statements about physicians, such as “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick” (Luke 5:31). He was in Jerusalem with Paul during Paul’s third missionary journey. When Paul was arrested in Jerusalem and then imprisoned in Caesarea for two years, Luke is no longer mentioned, until Paul appeals to Caesar and is put on a ship to Rome. Luke and Aristarchus boarded with him. Surely during this two years, Luke visited Paul in prison, but he may also have used this time to interview eyewitnesses of the Savior and gather information in preparation for his writings. 

By the time he wrote the book of Luke, other gospels were already circulating. Traditionally, Matthew was the first and Mark the second, Mark writing on Peter’s behalf. Both were available before the middle of AD 40. Luke spoke in Luke 1:2 “Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word”.  He may have visited Jerusalem, Samaria, Perea and Galilee, places Jesus had taught, and interviewed those who knew or had heard of Jesus. Perhaps he also visited Nazareth and interviewed Mary, obtaining details of the birth of the Lord. (Bible Archaeology ➚)

In addition to being the author of the Gospel of Luke, he also wrote the book of Acts. Judging from his vocabulary and literary style, he was a well-educated man. These works may have been written “shortly after the Jewish revolt (AD 66-73)”, putting them about 20 or 30 years after the books of Matthew and Mark. Some scholars also believe that Luke wrote, or assisted by copying down dictations or manuscripts, some other writings now included in the New Testament. (Britannica ➚) The book of Luke may have been written as late as AD 60-85, though we don’t know where he wrote it. His sources were those who were eyewitnesses to the Savior. As mentioned above, he did not witness the Savior himself, but recorded events told to him by those who had.

The book of Luke was intended for a Gentile audience. This is indicated by Luke’s literary style and his use of Greek (Hellenistic) terminology. The books of Luke and Acts were addressed to Theophilus (Luke 1:3), the Greek meaning of which is ‘friend of God’ or ‘beloved of God’. Theophilus had evidently received previous information about the life and teachings of the Lord (Luke 1:4). Luke sought to teach him further of the Savior’s mission and ministry. Since physicians were often slaves, some also suspect that Luke was Theophilus’ personal physician and servant. The face that Theophilus was addressed as “the most excellent Theophilus” in Luke 1:3, indicates that Theophilus was in a ruling position in the Roman Empire (Commentaries – Chuck Smith ➚).

Things unique in the book of Luke, not included in the other Gospels, was the traditional Christmas story, Jesus at the temple when He was 12, the good Samaritan, the prodigal son, the ten lepers, the resurrected Lord walking with His disciples on the road to Emmaus, the prayerfulness of Jesus, and the shedding of Jesus’ blood in the Garden of Gethsemane. He also highlights the Lord’s interest in all people, not only the Jews, but also the Samaritans and the Gentiles. He emphasizes the Lord’s regard for women, his compassion for the downtrodden, and His concern for outcasts and sinners.

Luke is believed to have been arrested in Thebes, possibly flayed alive and crucified on an olive tree. (Bible Archaeology ➚) Others think that he died of old age at 84. His tomb is located in Thebes, at one time accompanied by his relics. Thebes is in central Greece, about 30 miles northwest of Athens. (Wikipedia-Thebes, Greece ➚)

Summary – 

• From Antioch, Syria

• A well-educated physician by trade, but also a missionary

• Contemporary of, and companion to, Paul

• Was not an eyewitness of the Lord

• Gathered material for his writings from those who knew Jesus
• Wrote Luke and Acts ca. AD 60-85

James, brother of the Lord

Variations of his name
James, brother of the Lord
James Adelphatheos (Brother of God)
James the Righteous
James the Just

James was called the Just because he was uncommonly fair, later in life, as a church leader in Jerusalem. Jacob is also an English version of James.

Who were his parents?
Possibilities:
1) Joseph and Mary (making him a half brother of the Lord), but some believe Mary remained a virgin
2) James was a cousin or other relation of the Lord rather than His brother ("brother" wasn't always literal)
3) Alphaeus (Cleaophus in Greek) and Mary, making him one of the twelve, not commonly believed
4) Joseph and a previous wife (making him a step-brother of the Lord)

I lean toward the 4th option listed, that Joseph was a widower when he became betrothed to Mary, and that James was a son from Joseph's previous marriage. One tradition even goes so far as to state that James, being older than Jesus, was present with Mary and Joseph when they took baby Jesus to Egypt in order to save His life. If this is true, James would have been closely associated with Jesus through His childhood years, giving him a rather rare and interesting perspective.

Matthew 13:55 stated the following, speaking of Jesus and his siblings, including James: "Is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary?" This doesn't necessarily prove that Mary was the biological mother of James, however. She still could have been his step-mother, meaning that he might have been the son of the carpenter (Joseph) from his possible previous marriage. I really don't think there's enough information to say for sure, but it has been fascinating to dig a bit into this matter.

The siblings of James...
Jesus (likely a step brother)
Joses (Joseph)
Simon
Judas
unnamed sisters

Scripture tells us that Jesus had several brothers and sisters, including James, though some historians contend that "brothers" and "sisters" in the following verses might not be literal in meaning. Sometimes those words were used for cousins or other relatives.

Matthew 13:54-57
"And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, "Whence hath this man this wisdom, and these might works? Is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things? And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house."

What did James and his siblings initially think of Jesus?
Some believe that James was called one of the Lord's brothers because, assuming he was a son of Joseph from a previous marriage, he was entitled to a portion of Joseph's estate. This theory states that when Joseph was close to death he wanted to leave a portion of his estate to Jesus, his adopted son, and not only to his other sons. All of the other sons, save James, supposedly opposed Jesus getting a portion, since he was not Joseph's biological son. James, however, he would share his portion of his inheritance which Jesus, whom he loved. Along with this tradition, it is also understood that James was devoted to Jesus from the start, even accompanying Joseph and Mary as the fled with the baby Jesus into Egypt when Herod sought to kill Him. (The Brother of God ➚)

It appears that, perhaps, these step-brothers of Jesus did not initially accept Him as the Messiah. "His brethren therefore said unto him, Depart hence, and go into Judaea, that they disciples also may see the works that thou doest. For there is no man that doeth an thing in secret, and he himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, shew thyself to the world. For neither did his brethren believe in him." (John 7:5) Again, "brethren" might not literally mean "brothers", but it might. The theory has been put forward that his brothers did not recognize Him as the Lord until after his resurrection, when he appeared to James. "After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles." (1 Corinthians 15:7) By the time Pentecost occurred, at least some of them had changed their views. Acts 1:14 says the following, "These all continued with on accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren." This indicates that Jesus' brothers and his mother, Mary, were present at that time. (James, the Lord's Brother ➚)

His character
Though he may have been slow to recognize Jesus as the Messiah, James obviously because an undaunted supporter in later years. Hegesippus, a man who lived immediately after the time of the apostles, wrote the following concerning James, "James, the brother of the Lord, succeeded to the government of the Church in conjunction with the apostles. He has been called the Just by all from the time of our Saviour to the present day, for there were many that bore the name of James. He was holy from his mother's womb; and he drank no wine nor strong drink, nor did he eat flesh. No razor came upon his head; he did not anoint himself with oil, and he did not use the bath. He alone was permitted to enter into the holy place; for he wore not woolen but linen garments. And he was in the habit of entering alone into the temple, and was frequently found upon his knees begging forgiveness for the people, so that his knees became hard like those of a camel, in consequence of his constantly bending them in his worship of God, and asking forgiveness for the people. Because of his exceeding great justice he was called the Just, and Oblias, which signifies in Greek, Bulwark of the people' and Justice,' in accordance with what the prophets declare concerning him. (The Martyrdom of James, who was Called the Brother of the Lord ➚)

James, for the whole of his life it seems, was different. This man (a Nazarene?) is said to have lived the laws of a Nazirite. Never drinking wine or strong drink or eating meat, he lived solely on bread and water. He also did not cut his hair or wear woolen clothing, but garments made of fine linen. James slept very little, preferring instead to spend his nights in prayer. He was one of the Seventy and aided in the conversion of many, Jew and Greek alike. He went into the temple to kneel and pray for forgiveness on behalf of the people so often that his knees became calloused like those of a camel. He may have written the Epistle of James about 20 years after Jesus died. Well known for his fairness, his opinions were well-respected, even among the Scribes and Pharisees.

James becomes a leader in Jerusalem
He was a very prominent figure among the people of his time. He was the leader of the Christian movement in Jerusalem, beginning three years after Paul's conversion ca. 34 AD. By then, the church was under the direction of the apostles. James is commonly referred to as the first bishop to preside over the congregation in Jerusalem. Clement of Alexandria, ca. the late 2nd century AD, wrote, "For they say that Peter and James (the Great) and John the Apostle, after the ascension of our savior, as if also preferred by our Lord, strove not after honor, but chose James the Just as bishop of Jerusalem". (Wikipedia - James, brother of Jesus ➚)

Presumably the responsibility was given to him by Peter, James the Elder and John after the ascension of Jesus Christ. Elsewhere, however, it is written that Jesus, himself, "imparted knowledge to James the Just and to John and Peter, and they imparted it to the rest of the apostles, and the rest of the apostles to the seventy, of whom Barnabas was one." James the Just led the church in Jerusalem for thirty years or so. (Wikipedia - James, brother of Jesus ➚)

James' prominence increased after the apostle James, son of Zebedee, was beheaded in 44 AD, and after an angel rescued Peter from prison and he left Jerusalem. James became the chief spokesman at the Council of Jerusalem. In this capacity, he clarified for Paul in 49 AD that Gentiles who were converted need not be circumcised, but that the Jews should still be strict in their observance of Jewish laws. (Encyclopedia Britannica - Council of Jerusalem ➚)

Scriptural references to James
Galations 1:18-20 (Paul mentions meeting "James, the Lord's brother")
"Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother. Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God I lie not."

Galations 2:9-12 (James is on of the "pillars" of the church)
"And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do. But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles..."

1 Corinthians 15:5-8 (Paul mentions that Jesus appeared to James after the resurrection)
"And that he was seen of Cephas [Peter], then of the twelve: After that he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles. And last of all he was seen of me [Paul], also, as of one born out of due time."

Acts 12:17 (James needed to be told that Peter had miraculously been freed from prison)
An angel rescued Peter from prison, and Peter hurried to the house of Mary, mother of John Mark. He told those present to "go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place."

Acts 15:13-15 (a matter is brought before James and the elders and apostles in Jerusalem)
"And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, Men and brethren, hearken unto me: Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name. And to this agree the words of the prophets, as it is written"

Acts 21:17-20 (Paul meets with James)
"And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly. And the day following Paul went in with us unto James; and all the elders were present. And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry."

His death
James the Just, after all he had done to lead others to believe on the Son of God, died a martyr. During the Passover in 62 AD, the Scribes and Pharisees feared the people, for so many had began to believe in Him. They thought the people erred in who they thought Jesus was. They approached James the Just and requested that he climb up to the pinnacle of the temple, where the crowds could see and hear him better, and declare to them that Jesus was not the Messiah. Instead, he preached powerfully to them the opposite. To this, the people gathered for the Passover replied, "Hosanna to the Son of David." As a result of their failed scheme, the Scribes and Pharisees plotted to have James pushed from the pinnacle, after which he fell roughly 450 feet into the Kidron Valley below.(St. James the Just and the Ministry of Reputation ➚) Miraculously, he survived and gathered all his strength to kneel and pray one last time for the people, "I beseech Thee, Lord God or Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do." How similar this wording to the Lord's plea on the cross.

The Scribes and Pharisees found him and intended to stone him to death. One of the priests, a descendant of the Rechabites of whom Jeremiah spoke in Jeremiah 35, cried out, "Cease, what do ye? The just man is praying for us." His words went unheeded, and a launderer took a staff that was normally used to wring out clothes he dyed them, threw the club at James' head with such force that his brains began to spill out. So ended his earthly life, ca. 62 AD. He was buried right there where he died, near the temple, and a monument was erected in his memory.

The resulting unrest
It was illegal to form a Sanhedrin, or court, without the consent of the governor, and the people felt that James had been unjustly killed. It is suspected that this so upset the Jews that it led to the siege of Jerusalem, the First Jewish-Roman War, four years later.

Lineage of the Messiah

MATTHEW 1:1-19 AND LUKE 3:23-38

Does it really matter?
How many of you have been tempted to skip over this portion of the New Testament? Does it really matter what the Savior's lineage was? Well, to the Jews of that era it mattered a great deal. You see, it had been prophesied that their King would be descended from Abraham through the tribe of Judah, and that He would be of the house of David. Anyone claiming to be the Messiah, who did not fit this criteria, would not have been recognized as such.

Why give the lineage of Joseph?

Joseph and Mary
Photo source ➚

What reasons did Matthew and Luke have for considering the ancestry of Joseph to be relevant, when the Lord's literal parents were actually God the Father and Mary? What of the lineage of Mary, and thus her son, Jesus? Why does the lineage given in Luke differ so greatly from Matthew's, if both are the lineage of Joseph?

So many theories...
I got bogged down for several hours trying to decipher the various schools of thought on this matter. It appears that the general consensus is that one lineage was Joseph's and the other Mary's. However, ideas even differ as to which is which. Rather than compare and contrast the varying theories in depth here, which I feel unqualified to do, I will discuss the one I found to be the most fascinating. Ultimately, though, what is really important in all of this is that Jesus is the promised Messiah. Both lineages show direct descent from Abraham through King David, as was required. The difference is only that one follows the lineage through Solomon and the other through Nathan, both of whom were sons of David.


Was Mary's father also named Joseph?
Elliot's Commentary for English Readers ➚ suggests the following about Mary: “The omission of any mention of her parents suggests the idea of orphanhood, possibly under the guardianship of Joseph. The non-appearance of Joseph in the records of our Lord’s ministry, makes it probable that he died in the interval between the visit to the Temple of Luke 2:42 and the preaching of the Baptist, and that he was older than Mary. Both were poor; Joseph worked as a carpenter (Matthew 13:55), Mary offered the cheaper sacrifice of “two young pigeons” (Luke 2:24). They had no house at Bethlehem (Luke 2:7)." Mary being an orphan when she was betrothed to Joseph is something I hadn't really considered, and I thought it deserved mention in this context.

Whether or not she was an orphan, we do know that she was the mother of the Lord. It would seem, though it went against Jewish tradition to give the genealogy of a woman, that her lineage would merit being recorded in order to show that Jesus was of the correct lineage of be the Messiah. Regardless of when her parents died, who was Mary's father? Was his name Joseph, as was her husband's?

Within this theory, the lineage given in Matthew 1 is that of Mary, not her husband. If this is the case, the lineage clearly shows that Jesus was descended directly from David, and back through Abraham, as was prophesied. I found something very interesting when learning about this idea. Part of the conclusion drawn comes from the ancient text itself. In Matthew 1 verses 16 and 19, the word translated as "husband" can mean other things, indicating that there might have been two men by the name of Joseph, one Mary's father (verse 16) and one her husband (verse 19).

"And Jacob begat Joseph the husband (Greek: aner, meaning adult male, usually translated as husband) (Aramaic: gavra, meaning mighty man, father or husband) of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ." (Matthew 1:16)

"Then Joseph her husband (Greek: aner, meaning adult male) (Aramaic: bala, meaning man or husband), being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily." (Matthew 1:19)

Matthew is the most "Jewish" of the four gospels, and many scholars believe it was originally written in Hebrew or Aramaic, and then translated to Greek. This is possible, given Matthew's background. During the translation into Greek the meaning could have become "husband" in verse 16 rather than "father". Notice that in Aramaic the word used in verse 16, possibly distinguishing that, anciently, it was understand that these were two different men, was not the same as in verse 19. However, in Greek the same word was used in both verses, suggesting that some meaning was lost in translation.

If translated more literally from Aramaic, verse 16 could read "And Jacob begat Joseph the father of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ." This makes enough sense to merit some consideration, and allows the lineage in Matthew to continue its 14 generation pattern which Matthew described, adding the missing generation of Mary's father. . It is also interesting that the lineage listed in Matthew mentions several women, something not traditionally done at that time, whereas the lineage in Luke (possibly actually of Joseph, Mary's husband) does not. This may, possibly, give more merit to this lineage being Mary's. (Truth or Tradition ➚)

Something else to remember when trying to figure all this out is that there was no Greek word for "son-in-law". Therefore a genealogy could mention "son of" when it really means "son-in-law of".

Comparison of the two lineages

Both show direct descendant lineage through Abraham and King David, but by different sons of David.

Matthew 1 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 14 generations:  1) ABRAHAM  2) Isaac  3) Jacob  4) Judas/Judah  5) Phares/Perez  6) Esrom (mother, Thamar)  7) Aram  8) Aminadab  9) Naasson/Nahshon 10) Salmon  11) Booz/Boaz 12) Obed (mother, Rahab) 13) Jesse (mother, Ruth) 14) DAVID (king ca. 1010-970 BC) 14 generations:   1) Solomon (king ca. 970-931 BC)   2) Roboam (king ca. 931-915 BC) (mother - wife of Urias)   3) Abia/Abijam (king ca. 915-911 BC)   4) Asa (king ca. 911-870 BC)   5) Josaphet/Jehoshaphat (king ca. 870-849 BC)   6) Joram/Jerhoram (king ca. 849-842 BC)   7) Ozias/Uzziah (king ca. 783-742 BC)   8) Joatham/Jotham (king ca. 750-735 BC)   9) Achaz (king ca. 735-715 BC) 10) Ezekias/Hezekiah (king ca. 716-697 BC) 11) Manasses/Manasseh king ca. 697-643 BC) 12) Amon (king ca. 643-640 BC) 13) Josias/Josiah (king ca. 640-609 BC) 14) Jechonias (cursed) BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY 14 generations:   1) Salathiel/Shealtiel   2) Zorobabel/Zerubbabel (grandfather's curse lifted)   3) Abiud   4) Eliakim   5) Azor   6) Sadoc/Zadok   7) Achim  8) Eliud   9) Eleazer 10) Matthan 11) Jacob 12) Joseph 13) Mary? 14) JESUS

Luke 3 Adam Seth Enos Cainan Maleleel Jared Enoch Mathusala Lamech Noe Sem Arphaxad Cainan Sala Heber Phalec Ragau Saruch Nachor Thara ABRAHAM Isaac Jacob Juda/Judah Phares/Perez Esrom Aram Aminadab Naasson/Nahshon Salmon Booz/Boaz Obed Jesse DAVID (king ca. 1010-970 BC) Nathan Mattath Menan Melea Eliakim Jonan Joseph Juda Simeon Levi Matthat Jorim Eliezer Jose Er Elmodam Cosam Addi Melchi Neri Shealtiel Zerubbabel Rhesa Joanan Joda Josech Semein Mattathias Maath Naggai Esli Nahum Amos Mattathias Joseph Jannae Melchi Levi Matthat Heli Joseph JESUS (adopted)

Some notes on Matthew's 14 generation pattern...

Matthew was categorizing the lineage by major historical time periods. Because records and books were scarce among the people, it was tradition to divide up genealogy into portions of equal length to more easily commit them to memory. (Barnes’ Notes on the Bible ➚) Keep in mind that the lineage Matthew listed was abbreviated; there are missing generations here and there. Possibly, this was to keep with the 14 generation pattern.

14 generations of growth:
Abraham to David

• Oversaw by patriarchs, prophets and judges
• Covers the life of Abraham, to whom the promise was given, through David, to whom the promise was renewed more fully

14 generations of decline:

David to the carrying away of the Jews from Jerusalem to Babylon, the extremely well-fortified capital of a vast empire

• Ruled by kings
• Covers the time from the building of the temple to its destruction

14 generations from ruin to redemption:
Babylonian captivity to the birth of Jesus Christ

• Under the rule of the Asmonaean priests and generals
• Began with temporal captivity, with its disgrace and misery, and ended with spiritual deliverance

I find it interesting that these multiples were chosen. Clearly, these generations were categorized by periods in history, and this allowed Matthew to memorize them more easily, but is the number fourteen significant? Perhaps it has something to do with the number seven being a symbol of completeness and perfection (spiritual and physical), used 860 times throughout the Bible. 14 is a multiple of 7. The 7th day is hallowed as the Sabbath. The Bible was originally divided into 7 major sections (the Law, the Prophets, the Writings/Psalms, the Gospels and Acts, the General Epistles, the Epistles of Paul and the Book of Revelation). There were originally 49 books (a multiple of 7), demonstrating the perfection of the Word of God. Whether it is relevant or purely coincidental, it is something to consider.


Conclusion
Whether Matthew gave the genealogy of Mary, while Luke gave Joseph's, or vice versa, I am fully confident in stating that Jesus Christ was the promised Messiah. Though the various theories are fascinating, we could split hairs or debate these theories all day long. What it really boils down to is that we know that Jesus is the Lord. I believe that the intention of Matthew and Luke, in recording these lineages, was simply to show the Jews that Jesus fit all of the criteria outlined to qualify Him for being the Lord and Savior, according to the ancient prophecies.

Journey to Bethlehem

LUKE 2:1-38

Inhabitants were ordered obey Caesar Augustus' decree
Photo source ➚

Luke does not mention much in the way of particulars, as to the circumstances surrounding the decree which brought Joseph and Mary to their ancestral home of Bethlehem. The extend of background he gives is as follows: "And it came to pass in those days, there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child." (Luke 2: 1-5)

From the wording of ancient manuscripts, it is unclear whether this was more of a census or enrollment of taxable citizens, an assessment of each person's property in preparation for being taxed, or if Joseph and Mary were actually going there to pay said taxes. It was likely only a census or sorts, or an enrollment in preparation for later taxation. The taxation itself probably actually went into effect much later. Surely Caesar Augustus desired to gather an accounting of the population within the Roman Empire (the phrase translated as "all the world" often referred to the Roman Empire), each person's name, tribe and family. Taxing them immediately would have been difficult, and would have even caused a rebellion. Later, in Acts 27, there was a revolt by the Jews because of an attempt to tax them under Cyrenius, suggesting that there was no earlier taxation, but only an enrollment for such. (Bible Study Tools ➚) 

Cyrenius (Quirinius), the man mentioned by Luke as the one who first initiated the "taxation", had previously been the governor of Syria from 4 BC to 1 AD. He was appointed a general in the Roman army by the emperor in 6 AD, and was also and the governor of Syria once more, and remained so until 11 AD. His dominion then extended not only throughout Syria, but also the Roman province of Judea, which included Judea, Samaria and Idumea for the purpose of the census. At that time he was instructed to assess the province of Judea for the purpose of taxation, by way of this census. Keep in mind that the Jews hated these pagans who had conquered their land, and to whom they were, in a sense, slaves. Censuses were also against Jewish law. This census resulted in a revolt and the formation of the Zealots. (Wikipedia - Quirinius ➚)

As a side note, Will's Commentary states that the month, August, was named for Caesar Augustus because he corrected the calendar. He was considered to be the first to rule the entire Roman Empire, which was also known as "all the world". "Should be taxed" was translated from a phrase meaning "should be enrolled". Augustus saw to it that the empire was surveyed, in preparation for the actual taxation to take place, according to Roman law which required tax to be paid on males 14 years and older, as well as females 12 and up, later referred to in Luke 20 as the tribute to Caesar. Historically, it is pretty well established among scholars that Caesar Augustus carried out a geometrical survey of his empire. (Will's Commentary on the New Testament, Volume 3, page 36 ➚) It is really hard to say all that was involved in the decree, but we do know that Joseph and Mary traveled to where their people came from, in obedience to Caesar Augustus' edict. One can only wonder how this young couple felt about what they were required by law to do, knowing that it went against the laws of their Jewish forefathers.

Joseph brought Mary to Bethlehem Photo source ➚

Joseph took care of Mary along the way Photo source ➚

At this time it appears, from the usage of the phrase "espoused wife", that the marriage ceremony had taken place, but Joseph was not yet living with Mary in the traditional marital sense. We know this also from Matthew 1:24-25 which states, "Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus." In marrying her, though she was already pregnant, he saved her from public shame and likely being stoned to death, as the physical proof of her condition became apparent. He was commanded to do so by the angel, but it also showed his level of trust and compassion. Surely, he was a great man, carefully chosen to be Mary's husband and to guide Jesus through childhood.

Their journey to Bethlehem, the birthplace of David, ca. 6 BC took them a great distance, some 90 miles, from where they lived in Nazareth. Bethlehem was located six miles south of Jerusalem. Though they could have chosen a shorter route through Samaria, this was hostile territory and hilly terrain, difficult and dangerous especially given Mary's stage of pregnancy. It is suspected that they, instead, traveled "southeast through the Jezreel Valley and further east to the Jordan Valley. Continuing south to Jericho, they probably proceeded up through the Judean Desert to Jerusalem and onward to Bethlehem." (Reference ➚) Whether they were both on foot, or if Mary rode on a donkey as is traditionally accepted, is hard to say. It is estimated that they journey took anywhere from 4 days to a week and a half. Suffice it to say that it was a very difficult trip for Mary in her condition, but surely Joseph made her as comfortable as possible.

The text states that they went "up" from Nazareth in Galilee. It is interesting to note that Bethlehem is about 2000 feet elevation, so they really did go "up". (Will's Commentary on the New Testament, Volume 3, page 36 ➚) The old city of Nazareth was situated in a "bowl-like" valley at 1200 feet, surrounded by hills. (Encyclopedia - Nazareth ➚) At this time, Nazareth likely had a population or 4-500 people. (Wikipedia - Nazareth ➚)

Bethlehem, in the hill country of Judea, has great Biblical significance. It was there that Rachel died, and her tomb is at the entrance of the city. In a valley east of there Ruth gleaned the fields. In this fortified city, David was anointed king of Israel by the prophet Samuel. It is also the birthplace the Lord. (Wikipedia - Bethlehem ➚) From the fields east of the city came the shepherds to visit baby Jesus, and shepherds still watch over their sheep in this area, to this day. (Bible Places - Bethlehem ➚)

This being where Jesus was born fulfills the Old Testament prophecy recorded in Micah 5:2, "But thou, Beth-lehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting." This prophecy is referred to by the chief priests and scribes when Herod questioned where Jesus was to be born, in Matthew 2:4-6.

Words of Encouragement

There are many verses in the New Testament that are uplifting and can bring encouragement when we are struggling. The gospel gives a message of love, mercy, hope and peace. When we get bogged down with grief or worry, it can help to read these words.

"Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)

"Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows." (Luke 12:6-7)

"And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?" (Matthew 6:28-30)

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)

"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand." (John 10:27-28)

"I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you." (John 14:18)

"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7)

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." (Philippians 4:13)

"Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost." (Romans 15:13)

"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27)

"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)

"Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." (1 Peter 5:7)

"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." (1 Corinthians 15:58)

"[He] comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God." (2 Corinthians 1:4)

"For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." (2 Corinthians 4:17)

"If God be for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31)

Teachings of the Lord & His Servants

God knows us individually
The importance of faith
Humility
Obedience
Repentance
Baptism
Love God
Love each other
Parables
We are brothers and sisters
Serve others
Prayer
Anxiety
Enduring Persecution
Retrieving the Lost
Eternal Life
The Second Coming
How we are to treat children
Coming unto Him
Grace
Works
A higher law
God makes all things possible
Faithful giving
Divorce
Adultery
Avoid hypocrisy
Anger
Good things come from God
Dangers of wealth
Forgiving others
Judging others
Study
Beware of false teachers
Sacrifice
Tithes

People in the New Testament

Who were the authors of the New Testament, and when was each book written? Have you ever wondered that? Below is a list of the books, ordered by when they are believed to have been written. No one knows the exact dates, and scholars don't always agree, so the order is debatable, but these are some of the most specific dates I could find. It is close enough to give us an idea of which ones were written closest to the time Jesus lived. It is believed that the Lord was born ca. 6-4 BC, began preaching ca. 27-29 AD and died between 30-36 AD. I will also list, in parentheses, about how many years after his death each book might have been written.

Book	Author	Written	Main Content
James	James, brother of the Lord?	48-49 AD (12-19 yrs)	- Jews to live bold Christian life - practical advise - faith transforms us
Matthew	Matthew (Levi), disciple of Jesus	48-50 AD (12-20 yrs)	- genealogy of Joseph's family - Jesus' birth & childhood - ministry of Jesus - death and resurrection
Galations	Paul, prior to Jerusalem council	49 AD (13-19 yrs)	- problems with circumcision - Jews legalizing Gentile believers
1Thessalonians	Paul, to the church in Thessalonica	52-54 AD (16-24 yrs)	- strengthen believers - mentions 2nd coming - faith, hope, love
2Thessalonians	Paul, to the church in Thessalonica	52-54 AD (16-24 yrs)	- correct false teaching that 2nd   coming had already happened
1 Corinthians	Paul, to the church in Corinth	56 AD (20-26 yrs)	- cease immorality - divisions among Christians
2 Corinthians	Paul, to the church in Corinth	56 AD (20-26 yrs)	- depend Paul's apostleship - warn against false teachers
Romans	Paul, to the believers in Rome	56-57 AD (20-27 yrs)	- faith & trust in the Lord - spreading the gospel - salvation through Jesus
Luke	Luke, Paul's Greek physician	59-61 AD (23-31 yrs)	- Jesus' birth in detail - John the Baptist prepares the way - Jesus' baptism - ministry of Jesus - Judas betrays Him - death and resurrection
1 Peter	Peter, disciple of Jesus	60 AD (24-30 yrs)	- encouragement during persecution - be more holy
Acts	Luke, Paul's Greek physician	60-62 AD (24-32 yrs)	- Holy Ghost - spreading of the gospel - organizing the church - Jewish religion to Christianity
Ephesians	Paul, while in prison	60-62 AD (24-32 yrs)	- encourage believers - serve in unity and love
Colossians	Paul, while in prison	60-62 AD (24-32 yrs)	- response to false teachings - serve more fully
Philemon	Paul, while in prison	61 AD (25-31 yrs)	- forgiveness for runaway servant
Philippians	Paul, anticipating release from prison	62 AD (26-32 yrs)	- appreciation - encourage personal growth
1 Timothy	Paul, to young church leader (Timothy)	62 AD (26-32 yrs)	- encouragement - leadership guidelines
2 Peter	Peter, disciple of Jesus	63-64 AD (27-34 yrs)	- warns against false teachers
Mark	John Mark, companion of Paul & Peter	64 AD (28-34 yrs)	- Jesus is the Messiah, Son of God - John the Baptist - baptism of Jesus - calling of 12 disciples - his ministry & service - death and resurrection
Hebrews	Paul or Barnabas?	67 AD (31-37 yrs)	- dealing with persecution - keep the faith
2 Timothy	Paul, to Timothy	67 AD (31-37 yrs)	- give directions to Timothy - asks him to visit Paul once more
Titus	Paul, to Titus, a Greek believer	66 AD (30-36 yrs)	- leadership direction to Titus - encouragement - dealing with false teachers - our sinful nature
Jude	Jude, brother of Jesus & James	75 AD (39-45 yrs)	- warns against false teachings - truth of Jesus
John	John, disciple of Jesus	85-95 AD (49-65 yrs)	- eternal life through Jesus - John the Baptist - Jesus' ministry - Last Supper - death and resurrection
1 John	John, disciple of Jesus	85-95 AD (49-65 yrs)	- warns against false teachers - faith and love toward Jesus
2 John	John, disciple of Jesus	85-95 AD (49-65 yrs)	- abide in truth
3 John	John, disciple of Jesus	85-95 AD (49-65 yrs)	- praise for faithful service
Revelation	John, disciple of Jesus, prisoner	85-95 AD (49-65 yrs)	- encourage/hope to believers - watch for 2nd coming - final judgement for non-believers

Who were the original twelve disciples/apostles and where were they from? What was the occupations of each? Which ones of them were related or from the same region? Which ones were martyrs and how did they did?

Bethsaida	Peter - fisherman - crucified upside   down Andrew - fisherman - crucified (brothers)	James the Elder - fisherman - beheaded John - fisherman - natural causes (brothers)	Philip - fisherman - hung
Galilee	Bartholomew - of royal birth - flayed alive	James the Younger - unkown occupation - cut in pieces, then   crucified Jude - unknown occupation - shot with arrows (brothers)	Simon the Zealot - fisherman? - martyred	Thomas - unknown occupation - speared
Capernaum	Matthew - tax collector - martyred
Kerioth	Judas Iscariot - treasurer? - betrayed Jesus - suicide

Matthias replaced Judas Iscariot after he betrayed Jesus and hung himself. Prayer and casting lots resulted in him being chosen over Joseph/Barsabas.

Other Notable People:
•
•

Events in Chronological Order

6 BC
Lineage of the Messiah (Matthew 1:1-17, Luke 3:23-38)
The conception of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:18, Luke 1, John 1)
Joseph's reaction to Mary's pregnancy (Matthew 1:19-25)
The Roman Empire will be taxed by Caesar Augustus; Mary and Joseph travel to Bethlehem (Luke 2:1-5)
The birth of Jesus Christ, visit from the shepherds (Luke 2:6-20)
Jesus is circumcised at 8 days old and officially given His name (Luke 2:21)
Mary's forty days of purification, according to the law of Moses (Luke 2:22)
Presentation of Jesus in Jerusalem, offering of a sacrifice, conversation with Simeon and Anna (Luke 2:22-38)

4 BC
The wise men visited Jesus as a young child in a house in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:1-12)
Joseph and Mary escape with Jesus into Egypt, infant boys killed in Bethlehem and area (Matthew 2:13-18)
Death of Herod, Joseph brings his family to Nazareth (Matthew 2:19-23)

6 AD
Jesus' childhood, teaches at the temple at age 12 (Luke 2:39-52)

14 AD
Death of Augustus Caesar
Tiberius becomes the emperor of Rome

26 AD
John the Baptist prepares the way for Jesus (Matthew 3, Mark 1, Luke 3, John 1)
Baptism of Jesus, begins his ministry (Matthew 3, Mark 1, Luke 3)

27 AD
Jesus is tempted by the devil in the wilderness (Matthew 4, Mark 1, Luke 4)
Jesus started calling his disciples (Matthew 4, Mark 1, Luke 5)
Jesus turns water into wine at a wedding (John 2)
First cleansing of the temple (John 2)
Jesus teaches Nicodemus (John 3)
Jesus teaches a Samaritan women at the well (John 4)
The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7)

28 AD
Jesus explains how to pray (Luke 11)
Jesus in Galilee (Matthew 8, Mark 2, Luke 4)
Pool of Bethesda (John 5)
Jesus explains that he is Lord even of the Sabbath (Matthew 12, Mark 3, Luke 6)
Jesus speaks of John the Baptist's disciples (Matthew 11, Luke 7)
Parables (Matthew 13, Mark 4, Luke 8)
Jesus casts out a devil (Matthew 8, Mark 5, Luke 8)
Jesus heals a paralyzed person (Matthew 9)

29 AD
Jesus sends the 12 out to teach and heal (Matthew 10, Mark 6)
John the Baptist is beheaded, Jesus mourns and prays (Matthew 14, Mark 6)
Jesus miraculously feeds 5000 men (Matthew 14, Mark 6, Luke 9, John 6)
Jesus teaches what makes a person clean or unclean (Matthew 15, Mark 7)
Peter confesses Jesus as Lord (Matthew 16, Mark 8, Luke 9)
The Transfiguration (Matthew 17, Mark 9, Luke 9)
The least shall be great and the greatest shall be least (Matthew 18)
Jesus sends out 72 (Luke 10)
Jesus teaches at the feast of the tabernacles (John 7)
Jesus saves an adulterous woman from being stoned (John 8)
Jesus declares that he is the Son of God (John 9)
The sheep know the shepherd's voice (John 10)

30 AD
Parables (Luke 12-16)
Jesus heals the 10 lepers (Luke 17)
Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead (John 11)
Jesus' final journey to Jerusalem (Matthew 19-20, Mark 10, Luke 18)
Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19, John 12)
Second cleansing of the temple (Matthew 21)
Jesus curses a fig tree (Matthew 21)
Jesus is anointed by Mary (John 12)
Wrapping up His ministry there (Matthew 22-35, Mark 12-13, Luke 20-21)
Thursday before Passover (Matthew 26, Mark 14, Luke 22, John 13)
Institutes the Lord's Prayer (Luke 22)
Jesus washes the disciples' feet (John 13)
Jesus offers comfort to his disciples (John 14)
Jesus is the True Vine (John 15)
Jesus promises the Comforter (John 16)
Intercessory prayers (John 17)
Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14)
Judas Iscariot betrays Jesus, arrest and crucifixion (Matthew 27, Mark 15, Luke 23, John 18-19)
Peter denies knowing Jesus (Matthew 26)
Jesus is resurrected three days after his death (Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, John 20-21)
Women visit the tomb (Matthew 28)
Jesus appears to his disciples (Mark 16)
Jesus ascends into heaven (John 20, Acts 1)
Matthias is chosen to replace Judas Iscariot by prayer and casting lots (Acts 1)
Pentecost and the Holy Ghost (Acts 2)
Peter heals and preaches (Acts 3)
Peter and John are arrested, but released (Acts 4)
Ananias and Sapphira die (Acts 5)
Apostles heal and preach in various places (Acts 5)

31 AD
Stephen is stoned (Acts 6-7)
Saul persecutes the church (Acts 8)
Philip is in Samaria (Acts 8)
Simon the sorcerer (Acts 8)
Philip and the Ethiopian (Acts 8)

34 AD
Saul is converted on the road to Damascus (Acts 9)

37 AD
Caligula becomes the emperor of Rome
Peter preaches to the Gentiles (Acts 10-11)

41 AD
Claudius becomes the emperor of Rome

42 AD
Antioch becomes the center for the Christian population
Barnabas is sent to Antioch (Acts 11)
Peter is rescued from prison by an angel (Acts 12)

43 AD
Theudas claims to be the Messiah, but is executed

44 AD
Herold Agrippa dies (Acts 12)

45 AD
James writes a letter (James)

48 AD
Paul's first missionary journey (Acts 13)
Paul and Barnabas are in Antioch, Iconium, Lystra and Derbe, then return to Antioch (Acts 13-14)
The council at Jerusalem (Acts 15)

49 AD
Paul's second missionary journey (Acts 15)
Paul is in Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens (Acts 16-17)

51 AD
Paul is in Corinth, writes to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians)

52 AD
Paul writes to the Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians)

54 AD
Nero becomes the emperor of Rome
Paul is in Ephesus, writes to Corinthians and Galations (Acts 19, 1 Corinthians, Galations)

57 AD
Paul in Macedonia/Greece, writes to Romans/Corinthians (Acts 20, Romans, 2 Corinthians)

59 AD
Paul returns to Jerusalem (Acts 21-23)

60 AD
Paul is in prison in Caesarea (Acts 24)

61 AD
Paul is in prison in Rome

62 AD
Paul is released
Paul goes before Festus and Agrippa, then sails for Rome but shipwrecks at Malta (Acts 25-28)
Paul preaches in Rome, writes to Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon (Acts 28, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Philemon)

63 AD
Paul writes to Timothy (1 Timothy)

64 AD
There is a great fire in Rome, for which the Christians are blamed
Paul is back in prison
Peter writes a letter (1 Peter)

66 AD
The Jews in Judea revolt against Rome
Paul writes to Titus (Titus)

67 AD
Paul writes to Timothy again (2 Timothy)
Peter writes a second letter (2 Peter)

67-68 AD
Death of Paul and Peter

68 AD
Letters to the Hebrews (Hebrews)
Jude writes a letter (Jude)

69 AD
Romans attack Jerusalem
Vespasian becomes the emperor of Rome

70 AD
Jerusalem and the temple are destroyed, Christians deported

73 AD
Many Jews commit suicide at Masada

79 AD
Titus becomes the emperor of Rome

80 or 90 AD
John writes a letter (1 John)

80 or 92 AD
John writes another letter (2 John)

80 or 94 AD
John writes a third letter (3 John)

89 or 95 AD
John writes the book of Revelation at Patmos (Revelation)

Conception of John the Baptist & Jesus Christ

LUKE 1 AND JOHN 1:1-14

Zacharias burning incense in the temple
and was visited by the angel, Gabriel
Photo source ➚

Zacharias was of the tribe of Levi, which allowed him to serve in the temple. Elisabeth was also of the same tribe. Zacharias was to take his turn serving twice per year for one week periods, and lots were cast to decide which duty he was to preform. According to the Matthew Henry Commentary of 1706 ➚, Zacharias might have only been chosen once during his lifetime to burn incense in the inner court of the temple, just outside of the Holy of Holies, making this a very special day for him. The scent ascending symbolized prayers ascending to heaven, which is very appropriate given that he had been praying for years to have a child. The crowds were gathered outside while he performed his duties because it was customary that, after offering incense, the priest would come out and bless the people.

Zacharias was loyal to Elisabeth,
though she was barren.
Photo source ➚

Zacharias and his wife were clearly very upright, obedient people, and full of integrity. Elisabeth was thought to be barren, and both were elderly by this time. Zacharias, and undoubtedly Elisabeth as well, had prayed for so long to have a child. Keep in mind that, at that time, her being barren would have legally allowed him to divorce her without question, yet Zacharias had remained with her through the years and they bore the sorrow and grief together, bound by a strong, enduring commitment to one another and to God. Finally baring a son, as Elisabeth put it, would take away her "reproach among men” (Luke 1:25). This, in itself, speaks of her loneliness or at least of her feelings of inadequacy among her peers. Surely, she had been looked down upon for most of her life, for a situation that was out of her control

When Zacharias was finally told that his wife would conceive, he could hardly believe it. His prayers had not gone unheard and were never forgotten in heaven, but they took nearly a lifetime to be answered. Yet he kept faithfully doing his duties and kept praying for a child. One can barely imagine the shock, but joy, they must have felt with the long awaited answer of their fervent prayers, and to know that their son would do such great things in preparing the people to receive the Lord.

This story really makes me reflect on us, in our day. We tend to think that our prayers should be answered right away, in exactly the way we want. If they aren’t, we often get discouraged, or think God is not listening. How impatient we are! And how selfish of us, to think that God needs to do exactly what we ask, when we ask it! God has His own timing, and His own purposes and plans for our lives. I want to be more like Zacharias and Elisabeth, dedicated and loyal, never giving up, patiently having faith that my prayers are being heard. He will answer in His own due time, in a way that is according to His will, not only mine. God is patient with us, and we should be patient with Him.

Elisabeth, as was customary, was in confinement for much of her pregnancy. In other words, she remained out of the public eye. Surely she and Zacharias had many special moments together during this time, their gratitude apparent, though he could not speak. Because it is only a few verses down that we read that his tongue was loosed, I tend to forget just how long he was silent. His condition lasted her entire pregnancy, as the punishment was not lifted until eight days after Elisabeth gave birth, when he wrote John's name on a tablet, the name the angel had commanded that he name his son.

Mary humbly accepted her roll of being the Savior's mother
Photo source ➚

Meanwhile, Mary learned that she would become pregnant as well, and that she would give birth to Jesus Christ. The same angel, Gabriel, visited both Zacharias and Mary. At first, Mary was troubled. Having an angelic messenger would be quite an experience. Besides that, she was a virgin espoused to Joseph. It didn't make sense to her how she could become pregnant without knowing a man. Gabriel explained to her that the Holy Ghost would fall upon her, and that "the power of the Highest" would "overshadow" her (Luke 1:35). She was also given the miraculous news that her cousin, Elisabeth, was six months pregnant, though she was old and thought to be barren. The explanation for this were the great words "For with God nothing shall be impossible." (Luke 1:37) Mary readily submitted herself to the service of God, stating "Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word." (Luke 1:38) What an honor, and how humbling, to have been chosen to be the mother of Jesus.

Mary visited her cousin, Elisabeth
Photo source ➚

Mary went quickly to visit her dear cousin. Obviously, these two women were very well acquainted and were fond of each other. As soon as Mary greeted Elisabeth, her baby leaped within her. Note that Elisabeth seemed to already know that Mary was going to bare Jesus. "Blessed art though among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?" (Luke 1:42-43) Both women were filled with the Holy Ghost and spoke of great things to come, feeling blessed to be a part of it all. They recognized that Mary's son was going to save mankind and that John would prepare the way for Him. Both clearly knew of the prophecies, long spoken of. Both were submissive to the will of God. What a great sequence of events that bonded these two humble women to one another!

Zacharias agreed with Elisabeth that their son
was to be named John, and his tongue was loosed.
Photo source ➚

Zacharias knew that his son
would prepare the way for the Lord
Photo source ➚

Mary remained with Elisabeth and Zacharias for three months. I would assume that she remained there until the baby was delivered, at which time Elisabeth's neighbors rejoiced with her. One can only imagine the joy that they shared during time. I can’t help but think of what Zacharias experienced while unable to speak for so long… how much he must have reflected on his experience with the angel in the temple, how he must have thought about all that was to come.

Eight days after their son was born, Zacharias and Elisabeth took him before the priests to be circumcised and named. While Elisabeth insisted he be called John, the priests wished to name him after his father, since there was no one by the name of John in their family. Upon approaching Zacharias, he wrote the name of John on the tablet and his tongue was immediately loosed. Appropriately, the name John was derived from a Hebrew word that means "Jehovah is gracious".

Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost and prophesied that John would be counted as a prophet, and that he would teach a remission of sins through the mercy of God. He knew that his son would prepare the way for the Lord, who would bring peace and salvation. Those present also marveled, and recognized that John would do great things.

For me, the story of Elisabeth and Mary becoming pregnant speaks of faith and a willingness to do the will of God. It reminds me that our prayers are heard and remembered in heaven, and that God answers them in His own way and in His own timing. In fact He knows what we need, even before we ask. We just need to trust Him.


Who wrote about the conception of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ?

These very earliest events of the New Testament were recorded by both Luke and John. A very brief summary of information concerning these two men is included below:

Luke • From Antioch, Syria • Well-educated physician & painter • Paul’s contemporary & companion • Not an eyewitness of the Lord • Wrote Luke and Acts ca. AD 60-62    to convince Theophilus of Jesus

John • Knew Jerusalem and the surrounding area well • May have been the “disciple whom Jesus loved” • Became Mary’s guardian after Jesus died • Possibly the only eyewitness of the 4 gospel writers • Wrote John ca. 85-95 AD in Syria or Ephesus    to show that salvation comes through Jesus

It is interesting to remember that, since Luke indicated that he was not an actual eyewitness of Jesus Christ, it is strongly believed by many that he interviewed those who did know Him personally. He did this in order to make a clear, accurate record, with the intent of helping Theophilus to believe that what he had heard already was true. Such an interview with Mary, for example, would account for his writing in far greater detail of the conception of John and Jesus. His occupation would explain his inclusion of medical aspects of the story. Though he had not personally witnessed the life of Jesus Christ, Luke was obviously a very knowledgeable and spiritual man, inspired to write what he did.

By contrast, the book of John might have been written by "the disciple whom Jesus loved". If so, he was one who walked and talked with Him. In the earliest manuscripts of the book of John, the title "According to John" appeared, indicating that the book was named for the writer of it. In fact, he was one that Jesus was especially close to. This was noted by John referring, presumably, to himself as the disciple whom Jesus loved (John 13:23) and making him the guardian of the Lord’s mother, Mary, at His death (John 19:25-27). It was also to him and Peter that Mary Magdalene fled when she discovered His tomb was empty, and it was him who reached it first thereafter. Luke’s account (Luke 24:12) makes it seem as though Peter ran to the tomb alone. The book of John is also the only one of the four gospels to mention any of the disciples actually being present when Jesus was crucified. Knowing that John was loved of the Savior helps give perspective when reading the book of John, if it was written by someone close to Him that knew Him well.

Both men had very valuable insights to offer. The following is a summary of the details surrounding the conception of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ. Subjects mentioned in both accounts are italicized.

Luke 1 • Zacharias, of the line of Abia, was a priest. • His wife, Elisabeth, was a descendant of Aaron. • They were old and childless; she was barren. • They were righteous and blameless. • Zacharias had to burn incense in the temple. • The angel, Gabriel, appeared by the altar. • Told him not to fear, that his prayer was heard. • Elisabeth would bear a son and call him John. • Many would rejoice at his birth. • He would be filled with the Spirit from the womb. • John would prepare the people for the Lord. • Zacharias doubted his wife could get pregnant. • He’s struck dumb until John was born/named. • Elisabeth felt blessed to finally conceive. • Gabriel visited Mary, told her she’s bare a son. • She was troubled; Gabriel told her not to fear. • She questioned how, given that she was a virgin. • The Holy Ghost would come. • The Highest would overshadow her. • Her son, Jesus, would be the Son of God. • Mary humbly submitted to God’s will. • Gabriel told her Elisabeth had conceived. • All things are possible with God. • Though barren or virgin, both became pregnant. • Mary quickly went to visit her cousin, Elisabeth. • At her greeting, John leapt in Elisabeth’s womb. • Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost. • Both rejoiced that Mary would bare the Lord. • Mary lived with Elisabeth stayed for 3 months. • Elisabeth gave birth; her neighbors marveled. • At 8 days old, John was circumcised. • The men present named him Zacharias. • Elisabeth insisted his name be John. • They asked Zacharias what he wanted. • He asked for a tablet and wrote the name John. • Immediately Zacharias was no longer dumb. • Those round about knew John would be great. • Zacharias was filled with the Spirit. • Prophesied that his son would be a prophet. • John to teach remission of sins through mercy. • The child grew strong, was raised in the desert.

John 1:1-14 • John the Baptist sent by God to prepare the way. • He would bear witness, that all might believe. • The Lord’s own people didn’t accept Him. • Those who believed became the sons of God. • Jesus is the Word and the Light of the world. • All things were made by the Lord. • He is full of grace and truth