# verses

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<n>[This is]</n> a record of the family background of Jesus Christ, the descendant of David, who was the descendant of Abraham. <n>[Note: The following is an incomplete lineage through Jesus’ step-father Joseph]</n>.


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Abraham had a son named Isaac; Isaac had a son named Jacob and Jacob’s sons were Judah and his <n>[eleven]</n> brothers.


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Judah had sons named Perez and Zarah, <n>[whose mother was]</n> Tamar. Perez had a son named Hezron; Hezron had a son named Aram;


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Salmon had a son named Boaz <n>[whose mother was]</n> Rahab; Boaz had a son named Obed <n>[whose mother was]</n> Ruth; Obed had a son named Jesse,


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and Jesse had a son named David <n>[who became]</n> king <n>[of Israel]</n>. David had a son named Solomon <n>[whose mother was Bathsheba, the wife]</n> of Uriah;


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Josiah had descendants named Jechoniah and his brothers, <n>[near]</n> the time when <n>[the people of Judah]</n> were taken away to Babylon.


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After the people <n>[of Judah]</n> were taken away to Babylon, Jeconiah had a son named Shealtiel; Shealtiel had a son named Zerubbabel;


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Jacob had a son named Joseph, who was the husband of Mary. Mary <n>[alone]</n> was the mother of Jesus, who is called the Christ.


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So, all the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen; from <n>[the time of]</n> King David to the people <n>[of Judah]</n> being taken away to Babylon were <n>[approximately]</n> fourteen generations and from <n>[Judah]</n> being taken away to Babylon to <n>[the time of]</n> Christ were <n>[approximately]</n> fourteen generations.


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Now the birth of Christ happened this way: When His mother Mary was engaged to marry Joseph, <n>[but]</n> before they had a sexual relationship, she was discovered to be pregnant by <n>[the power of]</n> the Holy Spirit.


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Now Joseph, her husband <n>[to be]</n>, being a man who did what was right, and not wanting to make a public spectacle out of her, decided to break off their engagement privately.


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But while he was thinking about the matter, <n>[suddenly]</n> an angel from the Lord appeared to him in a dream <n>[i.e., a supernatural revelation given during sleep]</n>, saying, “Joseph, you descendant of David, do not be afraid to take Mary to be your wife, for the baby she is carrying is by <n>[the power of]</n> the Holy Spirit.


text:
She is going to have a son and you should name Him Jesus, for He is the One who will save His people from their sins.”


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Now all this happened in order to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet <n>[Isaiah 7:14]</n>, saying,


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“Look, the virgin will become pregnant and have a son, and they will name Him Immanuel,” which means “God with us.”


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Then Joseph woke up from his sleep and did what the angel of the Lord commanded him and took Mary to be his wife.


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<n>[But]</n> he did not have sexual relations with her until <n>[after]</n> she had a son, whom he named Jesus.


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Now Jesus was born in Bethlehem <n>[a small town]</n> in Judea during the time when Herod <n>[the Great]</n> was king <n>[of Judea]</n>. About that time some astrologer/sages from the east <n>[i.e., Persia]</n> came to Jerusalem, saying,


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“Where is the one who was born to be king of the Jews? For we saw a star <n>[signifying his birth while we were still]</n> in the east, and have come here to worship him.”


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So, he gathered all the leading priests and experts in the Law of Moses from among the people and asked them where the Christ <n>[child]</n> was to be born.


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They replied to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for this is what was written by the prophet <n>[Micah 5:2]</n>,


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‘And you, Bethlehem in the country of Judah, are not among the least <n>[towns in furnishing]</n> rulers for Judah, for you will produce a leader who will become shepherd of my <n>[i.e., God’s]</n> people Israel.’”


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So, he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and find out the details about the young child, and when you have found him, come and tell me, so I can go and worship him myself.”


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After hearing the king they left and the star, which they had seen <n>[while still]</n> in the east, moved on ahead of them until it stopped over <n>[the house]</n> where the young child was staying. <n>[See verse 11]</n>.


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Then they went into the house and saw the young child with His mother Mary. They fell to the ground and worshiped Him, and unpacking their treasures, they offered Him gifts of gold, incense and aromatic spices.


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Then they were warned by God in a <n>[supernatural]</n> dream not to return to Herod, so they left and returned to their own country by a different route.


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Now when they had gone an angel from the Lord appeared to Joseph in a <n>[supernatural]</n> dream, saying, “Get up and take the young child and His mother and hurry to Egypt. Stay there for as long as I tell you to, for Herod will be looking for the young child in order to kill Him.”


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They stayed there until Herod died, so that what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet would be fulfilled, saying <n>[Hosea 11:1]</n>, “I <n>[i.e., God]</n> called my Son out of Egypt.”


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When Herod saw that he had been tricked by the astrologer/sages, he was furious and sent out <n>[his soldiers]</n> to kill all the baby boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity. This was done to those from two years old and under, basing <n>[their decision]</n> on the exact time determined from the astrologer/sages.


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<n>[Jer. 31:15]</n>, “A voice was heard in <n>[the town of]</n> Ramah <n>[Note: This was a village near Jerusalem, where Rachel was buried]</n>, with crying and deep mourning. It was Rachel crying for her children <n>[Note: Initially this was a reference to the Israelites who were taken to Babylonian captivity. See Jer. 29-31]</n>. She refused to be comforted because they were dead.”


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Then when Herod was dead, an angel from the Lord appeared in a <n>[supernatural]</n> dream to Joseph <n>[while he was still]</n> in Egypt, saying,


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“Get up, take the young child and His mother, and go <n>[back]</n> to the country of Israel, for those who had tried to take the young child’s life are <n>[now]</n> dead.”


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But when he heard that Archelaus was then the king of Judea, in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go back. Then, being warned by God in a <n>[supernatural]</n> dream, he went on up to the region called Galilee,


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and settled in a town called Nazareth, so that it could fulfill what was spoken by the prophets <n>[Isa. 11:1 in the Hebrew text]</n> that Jesus would be called a Nazarene.


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(Thirty years later) In those days, John the Immerser went into the desert of Judea preaching <n>[to Jews]</n>, saying,


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“You must repent <n>[i.e., change your hearts and lives]</n>, for the kingdom of heaven will soon be here.”


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For this is the man who was spoken of by Isaiah the prophet, who said, <n>[Isa. 40:3]</n>, “<n>[It is]</n> the voice of a man who speaks out in the desert, <n>[urging people to]</n> make the road for the Lord ready <n>[for Him to travel]</n>; to make a straight pathway for Him <n>[to walk on]</n>.”


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Now John dressed in clothing made of camel’s hair and he wore a leather belt around his waist; he ate grasshoppers and wild honey <n>[i.e., for his regular diet]</n>.


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<n>[People from]</n> Jerusalem and all over Judea and the region around the Jordan River all went out <n>[to the desert]</n> to <n>[hear]</n> him,


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But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to be immersed, John said to them, “You children of snakes, who warned you to run away from the coming wrath <n>[of God]</n>?


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and quit thinking to yourselves, we claim Abraham as our forefather, because I tell you, God is able to make Abraham’s children out of these stones.


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And even now the axe is ready to chop down the trees <n>[i.e., you Jewish people]</n>. Every tree <n>[i.e., person]</n> that does not produce wholesome fruit <n>[i.e., godly, repentant lives]</n> will be cut down and thrown into the fire <n>[i.e., the final punishment of the wicked]</n>.


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“I certainly am immersing you in water following <n>[your]</n> repentance, but the One who follows me <n>[i.e., in my ministry]</n>, whose sandals I do not deserve to remove <n>[as His slave]</n>, will immerse you people with the Holy Spirit and with fire <n>[i.e., the punishment in hell. See verses 10 and 12]</n>.


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His winnowing shovel <n>[Note: This was a process whereby grain was tossed into the air so that the wind could blow the husks away, leaving only good grain on the ground]</n> is in His hand and He will completely clear off His threshing floor <n>[by removing all of the husks]</n>. And He will gather His wheat into the barn, but will burn up the husks with a fire that will never go out.”


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But John tried to discourage Him <n>[from being immersed]</n>, when he said, “I should be immersed by you, and you are coming to me <n>[for immersion]</n>?”


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But Jesus answered him, “Allow it <n>[to be done]</n>, for it is proper for us to complete everything that is right <n>[before God]</n>.” So, John agreed to it.


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After Jesus was immersed <n>[by John]</n>, He came up out of the water and heaven was opened up before Him and He saw the Holy Spirit from God descending, as a dove, and landing upon Him.


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The tempter <n>[i.e., the devil]</n> came and said to Him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to turn into bread.”


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But Jesus answered, “It is written <n>[Deut. 8:3]</n>, ‘A person is not to live by <n>[eating]</n> bread only, but <n>[instead]</n> by <n>[believing and obeying]</n> every statement spoken by God.’”


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Then the devil took Him to the holy city <n>[i.e., Jerusalem]</n> and placed Him on an <n>[elevated]</n> wing of the Temple,


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and said to Him, “If you are the Son of God jump off, for it is written <n>[Psalm 91:11-12]</n>: ‘He will put His angels in charge of you’ and ‘They will lift you up with their hands so you do not trip over a stone.’”


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Jesus said to him, “It is also written <n>[Deut. 6:16]</n>, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’”


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The devil took Him again, <n>[this time]</n> to a very high mountain and showed Him all the world’s kingdoms, along with their splendor,


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Then Jesus replied to him, “Get away from me Satan, for it is written <n>[Deut. 6:13]</n>, ‘You are supposed to worship the Lord your God, and serve only Him.’”


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Now when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, He left <n>[the province of Judea]</n> and went to Galilee.


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<n>[After]</n> leaving Nazareth <n>[i.e., a major town in Galilee]</n>, He came to live in Capernaum, <n>[a city]</n> beside Lake Galilee, near the districts of Zebulun and Naphtali.


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<n>[Isa. 9:1-2]</n>. “The districts of Zebulun and Naphtali, near the lake, beyond <n>[i.e., where it enters]</n> the Jordan in Galilee, <n>[the territory]</n> of the Gentiles;


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the people who lived <n>[there]</n> in <n>[spiritual]</n> darkness saw a great light. Light shone upon these people, who lived in an area that was under the shadow of death.”


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From that time onward Jesus began to preach, saying, “You people <n>[must]</n> repent <n>[i.e., change your hearts and lives]</n>, for the kingdom of heaven is near.”


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While Jesus was walking beside Lake Galilee, He saw two brothers; Simon called Peter, and his brother Andrew, casting their net into the lake, because they were fishermen.


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<n>[As]</n> Jesus went from there He saw two <n>[other]</n> brothers, James and John, the sons of Zebedee. They were in the boat with their father Zebedee, repairing their nets. He called them,


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Jesus went all over Galilee teaching in the <n>[Jewish]</n> synagogues and preaching the good news of the <n>[coming, see verse 17]</n> kingdom, and healing all kinds of disease and sickness among the people.


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The news <n>[of what Jesus was doing]</n> spread all over <n>[the country of]</n> Syria and they brought to Him all those who were sick, stricken with various diseases and pains, dominated by evil spirits, and afflicted with seizures and paralysis, and He healed them <n>[all]</n>.


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Large crowds followed Him from Galilee, Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea and from beyond <n>[i.e., the east side of]</n> the Jordan River.


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Seeing the large crowds, Jesus went up in a mountain <n>[i.e., probably a hill near Capernaum]</n> and when He sat down, His disciples came to Him.


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“Those persons who feel a deep sense of their personal need are blessed because the kingdom of heaven belongs to them.


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“Those persons who feel grief <n>[over their sins]</n> are blessed because they will receive comfort <n>[from God when they repent]</n>.


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“Those persons who have a humble attitude <n>[toward themselves]</n> are blessed because they will inherit <n>[the best of]</n> the earth.


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“Those persons who have an appetite for whatever is right are blessed because they will be satisfied.


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“Those persons who show mercy <n>[toward others]</n> are blessed because they will be shown mercy <n>[themselves]</n>.


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“Those persons who attempt to make peace <n>[between people]</n> are blessed because they will be called God’s children.


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“Those persons who have suffered for trying to do what is right are blessed because the kingdom of heaven belongs to them.


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You will be blessed when people speak against you and harm you and say bad things about you that are untrue, because of <n>[your devotion to]</n> me.


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Be happy and very glad, for your reward in heaven will be great. For they persecuted the prophets <n>[who lived]</n> before you in the same way.


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“You people are <n>[like]</n> salt on the earth. But if salt loses its flavoring ability, how will it ever get it back again? From then on it would be good for nothing except to be thrown out onto the roadway and walked on by people. <n>[Note: This was mined salt which, when losing its “saltiness” due to exposure to the sun or rain, was simply disposed of by being dumped onto the roadway where people walked]</n>.


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Neither does a person light an <n>[olive oil]</n> lamp and place it under a bushel-sized container, but on a stand where it can illuminate everything in the house.


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In that same way, you should allow your light <n>[i.e., influence]</n> to shine in front of people, so that they will see your good deeds and <n>[be led to]</n> honor your Father in heaven.


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“Do not think that I came to do away with the Law of Moses or the prophets. I did not come to do away with them, but to fulfill them <n>[i.e., their requirements and predictions]</n>.


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For it is true when I say, not one little letter or even a portion of a letter will be removed from the Law of Moses until everything is accomplished <n>[that is required by them]</n>. <n>[When that happens, then]</n> heaven and earth will pass away <n>[i.e., be destroyed. See II Peter 3:12]</n>.


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Therefore, whoever disregards one of these least <n>[significant]</n> requirements <n>[of the Law of Moses]</n> and teaches others to <n>[disregard them]</n>, he will be considered the least <n>[significant person]</n> in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever obeys them and teaches <n>[others to obey]</n> them, will be considered important in the kingdom of heaven.


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For I say to you people, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven unless what you do that is right excels what the experts in the Law of Moses and the Pharisees <n>[i.e., a strict sect of the Jewish religion]</n> do that is right.


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“You have heard what was said to the people in times past <n>[Exodus 20:13]</n>, ‘You must not murder,’ and whoever does will be subject to judgment.


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But I say to you that every person who is angry toward his brother will be subject to judgment; and whoever calls his brother ‘stupid idiot’ is subject to <n>[being sentenced by]</n> the <n>[Jewish]</n> Council, and whoever says, ‘go to hell’ is subject to going to the fire of hell <n>[himself]</n>.


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Therefore, if you are offering your <n>[sacrificial]</n> gift on the Altar and <n>[just then]</n> you remember that your brother has a grievance against you,


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<n>[stop right there]</n>; leave your gift at the Altar and <n>[immediately]</n> go to that brother and settle the matter first, before returning to offer your gift.


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<n>[In another case]</n>, come to terms with the person suing you as soon as possible, <n>[even]</n> on your way <n>[to court]</n>, so he does not take you before the judge, and then the judge turn you over to the officer and you be sent to prison.


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It is true when I say to you; you will not be released from there until you have paid the last coin. <n>[Note: The coin mentioned here amounted to about ten minutes’ worth of a farm laborer’s pay, or about $1.50 in 2005]</n>.


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“You have heard what was said <n>[Exodus 20:14]</n>, ‘You must not be sexually unfaithful to your mate.’


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But I say to you, everyone who looks at a woman with an improper sexual desire for her <n>[body]</n>, has already been sexually unfaithful to his mate in his heart.


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And if your right eye is what ensnares you into falling away <n>[from God]</n>, gouge it out and throw it away from you. For it would be better for you to lose a part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. <n>[Note: This is the word “Gehenna,” and because of its Old Testament connotation of burning bodies, II Chron. 33:6, it is used figuratively here, and elsewhere, to describe the place of future, final punishment of the wicked]</n>.


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And if your right hand is what ensnares you into falling away <n>[from God]</n>, cut it off and throw it away from you. For it would be better for you to lose a part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.


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It was also said <n>[Deut. 24:1-3]</n>, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let it be done with a <n>[legally binding]</n> divorce decree, which he must give her.’


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But I say to you, every person who divorces his wife makes her become sexually unfaithful to him <n>[i.e., since she will probably marry someone else]</n>, unless the reason for the divorce is that she had <n>[already]</n> become sexually unfaithful to him. And whoever marries a woman who has been divorced commits sexual sin with her <n>[i.e., because she is still rightfully married to her first husband]</n>.


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“Again, you have heard what was said to people in times past <n>[Lev. 19:12]</n>, ‘You must not go back on your oaths, but <n>[rather]</n> fulfill the oaths you take to the Lord.’


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nor ‘by earth,’ for it is the footstool for His feet; nor ‘by Jerusalem,’ for it is the city of the great King <n>[i.e., God]</n>.


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You should not take an oath, <n>[saying]</n> ‘by my head,’ for you cannot make a single hair white or black.


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But you should just say ‘yes’ <n>[when you mean]</n> yes, and ‘no’ <n>[when you mean]</n> no. Whatever you say beyond these <n>[i.e., enforcing them by oaths]</n> is of the evil one <n>[i.e., the devil]</n>.


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“You have heard what was said <n>[Exodus 21:24]</n>, ‘Take an eye <n>[from someone]</n> if he takes yours, and take a tooth <n>[from someone]</n> if he takes yours.’


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But I tell you, do not offer resistance to an evil person, but whoever hits you on the right side of the face, allow him <n>[to hit you]</n> on the other side also.


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And if anyone takes you to court in order to take your shirt away from you, let him have your coat also <n>[i.e., if he insists on it]</n>.


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Whoever requires you to go one mile, <n>[be willing to]</n> go with him two miles. <n>[Note: The Romans were permitted by law to require a Jew to carry their burden for one mile only]</n>.


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Give to the person who asks you <n>[for something]</n>, and do not refuse to lend to the person who wants to borrow something from you.


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“You have heard what was said <n>[Lev. 19:18]</n>, ‘You must love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’


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in order to be <n>[true]</n> children of your Father in heaven, for He makes His sun to rise on evil <n>[as well]</n> as on good people. He <n>[also]</n> sends rain on those who live right <n>[as well]</n> as on those who do not live right.


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For if you love <n>[only]</n> those who love you, what reward will you get for that? Do not even the publicans <n>[Note: These were people with a bad reputation for their dishonest tax collecting activities]</n> do that much?


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And if you greet <n>[cordially]</n> your brothers only, what are you doing more than other people? Do not even the <n>[unconverted]</n> Gentiles do that much?


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Therefore, you must <n>[attempt to]</n> be complete, just as your heavenly Father is <n>[already]</n> complete.”


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“Be careful that you do not do your good deeds in front of people for the purpose of being seen by them, for <n>[if you do]</n> you will not have a reward from your Father in heaven.


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“Therefore, when you give money to help poor people, do not blow a trumpet in front of you <n>[i.e., to call attention to it]</n> as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and streets. They do this in order to win praise from people. It is true when I say to you; they have <n>[already]</n> received their reward.


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But when you give money to help poor people, do not allow your left hand to know what your right hand is doing <n>[i.e., do it inconspicuously]</n>


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so that your giving to poor people may be done secretly. Then your Father, who sees what is done secretly, will pay you back.


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“And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners <n>[i.e., in prominent view of everyone]</n> in order to be seen <n>[and praised]</n> by people.


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But when you pray, go to a private place and after closing the door, pray to your Father who is in a secret place, and <n>[since]</n> He sees in secret places, He will reward you.


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And when you pray, do not use worthless repetitions like the <n>[unconverted]</n> Gentiles, for they think their lengthy, repetitious wording <n>[in prayer]</n> is more likely to be heard <n>[by God]</n>.


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So, do not be like them, for your Father <n>[already]</n> knows what things you need, <n>[even]</n> before you ask Him.


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May your kingdom come <n>[to earth]</n>; may your will be done on earth just as it is <n>[already being done]</n> in heaven.


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And forgive us of the wrongs we have done to others, since we have also forgiven the wrongs done to us.


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And do not allow us to fall under temptation, but deliver us from <n>[being harmed by]</n> the evil one.’


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For if you forgive the wrongs people have done <n>[to you]</n>, your heavenly Father will also forgive the wrongs you have done <n>[to Him]</n>.


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But if you do not forgive the wrongs people have done <n>[to you]</n>, neither will your Father forgive the wrongs you have done <n>[to Him]</n>.


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“In addition, when you fast <n>[i.e., go without food and/or drink for religious reasons]</n>, do not be like the hypocrites with long faces; for they go around with gloomy expressions on their faces in order to advertise that they are fasting. It is true when I say to you; these people have <n>[already]</n> received their reward.


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so that people will not see that you are fasting, but <n>[only]</n> your Father who is in secret <n>[will know about it]</n>. For, <n>[since]</n> He sees <n>[what is done]</n> in secret, He will repay you.


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“Do not store your valuables <n>[here]</n> on earth, where moths can eat them and where rust can corrode them, and where burglars can break in and steal <n>[them]</n>.


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But <n>[rather]</n> store up your valuables in heaven <n>[i.e., by investing your life in spiritual things]</n>, where neither moths can eat nor rust corrode, nor burglars break in and steal,


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for wherever <n>[you store]</n> your valuables, that is where your heart <n>[i.e., your real concern]</n> will be also.


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Your eye is <n>[like]</n> a lamp to your body <n>[i.e., your life]</n>. If your eye sees things correctly, <n>[then]</n> your whole body <n>[i.e., your entire life]</n> will be illuminated <n>[i.e., be directed into proper conduct]</n>.


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But if your eye sees things wrongly, <n>[then]</n> your whole body <n>[i.e., your entire life]</n> will be full of darkness <n>[i.e., will not be lived properly]</n>. If therefore, the light you have is <n>[really]</n> darkness <n>[i.e., if you are not seeing life properly]</n>, that darkness will be very great <n>[i.e., you cannot possibly live properly]</n>.


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No person can serve two masters, for he will either hate the one and love the other, or else he will cling to the one and look down on the other. You cannot serve God and material things <n>[at the same time]</n>.


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“So I tell you, do not worry about <n>[the material things of]</n> your life, <n>[such as]</n> what you will eat or what you will drink, or about what you will wear on your body. There are more important things in life than food, and more important things about your body than the clothing you wear.


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Look at the birds in the sky; they do not plant seeds or harvest <n>[a crop]</n> or store <n>[things]</n> in barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them <n>[adequately]</n>. Are you not a lot more valuable than they are?


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And why are you worrying about clothing? Consider how <n>[wild]</n> lilies grow in a field; they do not work or weave,


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yet I tell you that even Solomon, clothed in his very finest royal robes, was never dressed <n>[as luxuriously]</n> as one of these flowers.


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So, if God so <n>[beautifully]</n> dresses the grass in a field, which is <n>[green]</n> today, and <n>[then]</n> tomorrow <n>[dries up and]</n> is thrown in the oven <n>[i.e., as fuel]</n>, will He not do even more in providing your clothing, you people with such little faith?


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Therefore, do not worry by asking, ‘What are we going to eat?’ Or ‘What are we going to drink?’ Or ‘What are we going to wear?’


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For these are the things that the <n>[unconverted]</n> Gentiles keep trying to get. But your heavenly Father <n>[already]</n> knows you need these things.


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So, you should put the kingdom of God and what He says is right first <n>[in your lives]</n>, then all these things <n>[i.e., food, drink and clothing]</n> will be provided for you.


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Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will have enough to be worried about in itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”


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“Do not pass <n>[condemning]</n> judgment <n>[on other people]</n> so that you do not receive such judgment <n>[on yourselves]</n>.


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For the way you judge <n>[other people]</n> is the way you <n>[yourselves]</n> will be judged. And the standard you use <n>[for dealing]</n> with others is the standard that they <n>[and God]</n> will use on you.


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And why do you look for the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye but ignore the board in your own eye?


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Or, how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take that speck of sawdust out of your eye,’ while there is a board in your own eye?


text:
You hypocrite, take the board out of your own eye first; and then you will be able to see clearly enough to take the speck of sawdust out of your brother’s eye.


text:
“Do not offer sacred things to dogs, and do not throw your pearls in front of <n>[wild]</n> pigs <n>[i.e., to those who will not appreciate them]</n>, because they will probably trample on them with their feet and then turn around and attack you.


text:
“Ask <n>[God for something]</n> and it will be given to you; look <n>[to God for something]</n> and you will find it; knock <n>[on the door of opportunity]</n> and it will be opened up to you.


text:
For every person who asks will <n>[certainly]</n> receive; and the one who looks will <n>[certainly]</n> find; and to the person who knocks, the door will <n>[certainly]</n> be opened.


text:
If then you know how to give good gifts to your children, even though you are sinful <n>[human beings]</n>, how much more <n>[likely]</n> is it that your Father in heaven will give good things to those who ask Him?


text:
Therefore, everything that you would like people to do to you, do <n>[these things]</n> to them also. For this is <n>[what is required by]</n> the Law of Moses and the prophets.


text:
“You should enter <n>[God’s kingdom]</n> by means of the narrow door, for the wide door and the broad road are the ones that lead to <n>[spiritual and physical]</n> destruction. And many people will enter <n>[that wide door]</n>.


text:
But the door that is narrow and the road that is restricted lead to <n>[spiritual]</n> life and <n>[only]</n> a few people will find them.


text:
“Look out for deceiving prophets, who approach you wearing sheep’s clothing, but who are <n>[actually]</n> starving wolves in their hearts.


text:
You can recognize them by their fruit <n>[i.e., by what their lives produce]</n>. Do people harvest grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistle weeds?


text:
In a similar way, every healthy tree produces wholesome fruit; but a diseased tree produces <n>[only]</n> bad fruit.


text:
Therefore, you will recognize them <n>[i.e., prophets]</n> by their fruit <n>[i.e., by what their lives produce]</n>.


text:
“Not every person who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven; but <n>[only]</n> that person who does what my Father in heaven requires.


text:
Many persons will say to me on the <n>[judgment]</n> day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy by <n>[the authority of]</n> your name, and drive out evil spirits and perform many powerful <n>[supernatural]</n> deeds by your name?’


text:
And then I will declare to them, ‘I never acknowledged you <n>[as my people]</n>; go away from me, you people who have done sinful things.’


text:
“Every person therefore, who hears these words of mine and obeys them will be like the sensible person who built his house on a <n>[foundation of]</n> rock.


text:
The <n>[heavy]</n> rains came down and the flood waters rose and the winds blew and beat down on that house, but it did not collapse, for it was <n>[built]</n> on a foundation of rock.


text:
And every person who hears these words of mine but does not obey them will be like the foolish person who built his house on <n>[a foundation of]</n> sand.


text:
And the <n>[heavy]</n> rains came down and the flood waters rose and the winds blew and struck against that house <n>[until]</n> it collapsed with a terrible crash.”


text:
And so it happened, when Jesus had finished <n>[speaking]</n> these words, the crowds were amazed at his teaching,


text:
Just then a person with an infectious skin disease came and worshiped Him, saying, “Lord, if you wanted to, you can heal me.”


text:
Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man, saying, “I do want to; you are healed.” And immediately his infectious skin disease was healed.


text:
Jesus said to him, “Be sure you do not tell anyone <n>[about your healing yet]</n>; but <n>[first]</n> go and show yourself to the priest and then offer the <n>[sacrificial]</n> gift required by the Law of Moses <n>[See Lev. 13:49; 14:2ff]</n>, as evidence to them <n>[that you have been healed]</n>.”


text:
But the military officer answered, “Sir, I do not deserve for you to come into my house; just say the word and <n>[I know]</n> my slave-boy will be healed.


text:
For I also am a man <n>[who serves]</n> under the authority <n>[of others]</n>, and I have soldiers <n>[who serve]</n> under me. I can say to this one ‘Go,’ and he goes, and to another one, ‘Come,’ and he comes, and to my slave ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”


text:
And when Jesus heard this, He was amazed and said to those who were following <n>[along]</n>, “It is true when I tell to you, I have never found <n>[anyone with]</n> such great faith, not <n>[even]</n> among the Israelites.


text:
And I <n>[also]</n> say to you, that many people will come from the east and the west and will sit down with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven.


text:
But the children who <n>[are supposed to]</n> belong to the kingdom will be thrown out into the outer darkness where there will be crying and excruciating pain.”


text:
And Jesus said to the military officer, “Go on your way; since you have believed <n>[in my power to heal]</n>, what you desired will be done for you.” And the slave-boy was healed that <n>[very]</n> hour.


text:
He touched her hand and <n>[immediately]</n> her fever subsided and she got up <n>[out of bed]</n> and waited on Him.


text:
When evening came they brought many persons who were dominated by evil spirits to Jesus and He drove out the spirits with <n>[just]</n> a word and healed all those who were sick.


text:
This was in order to fulfill what was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying, <n>[Isa. 53:4]</n>, “<n>[He]</n> Himself took <n>[care of]</n> our <n>[physical]</n> weaknesses and carried <n>[away]</n> our diseases.”


text:
Now when Jesus saw large crowds around Him, He gave orders <n>[i.e., to His followers]</n> to leave for the other side <n>[i.e., to go from the west to the east side of Lake Galilee]</n>.


text:
<n>[While there]</n> an expert in the Law of Moses said to Him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.”


text:
Jesus replied to him, “The foxes have dens <n>[in which to live]</n> and the birds of the sky have nests <n>[in which to roost]</n>; but the Son of man does not have anywhere to lay His head.”


text:
But Jesus answered him, “Become my follower, and let the <n>[spiritually]</n> dead bury them” <n>[i.e., let a person’s relatives care for their own family members until they die]</n>.


text:
Suddenly a violent storm came up over the lake, so that <n>[huge]</n> waves began to overwhelm the boat. But Jesus was sleeping <n>[through it all]</n>.


text:
And He called to them, “Why are you <n>[so]</n> afraid? You have such little faith!” Then He stood up and sternly commanded the wind and the waves, and they became very calm.


text:
The men <n>[on board the boat]</n> marveled, saying, “What kind of a man is this, that even the wind and waves obey Him?”


text:
And when He got to the other side <n>[i.e., the east side of the lake]</n>, He was in the district of the Gadarenes. There He was met by two men dominated by evil spirits. They came from the graveyard <n>[where they lived]</n> and were so fierce that no one could <n>[safely]</n> travel that road.


text:
Suddenly they shouted out, “What do you want with us, you Son of God? Have you come here to torture us before it is time to?” <n>[i.e., before our punishment is due. See II Pet. 2:4; Jude 6]</n>.


text:
Now a large herd of <n>[wild]</n> hogs <n>[i.e., about 2000 of them. See Mark 5:13]</n> was grazing some distance away from them.


text:
So, the evil spirits <n>[in one of the men. See Mark 5:1ff]</n> begged Jesus, saying, “If you are going to drive us out <n>[of this man]</n>, send us away into that herd of <n>[wild (?)]</n> hogs.”


text:
Jesus replied to them, “Go <n>[ahead]</n>.” And they came out <n>[of the man]</n> and entered the hogs, and suddenly the entire herd rushed down the cliff into the lake and drowned in the water <n>[below]</n>.


text:
<n>[Upon seeing this happen]</n> the men who were tending the herd ran away and went into the town <n>[i.e., of Gadara, one of ten towns making up the province of Decapolis]</n>, and told the people everything, <n>[including]</n> what had happened to the men dominated by evil spirits.


text:
Quickly, all the people of the town came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw Him, they urged Him to leave the district <n>[i.e., probably because of the loss of livestock]</n>.


text:
Then Jesus entered a boat and crossed <n>[back]</n> over <n>[Lake Galilee]</n> and came to His own city <n>[i.e., Capernaum]</n>.


text:
<n>[Upon His arrival]</n> they brought to Him a man afflicted with a paralytic disease, <n>[being carried on his cot. See Mark 2:3]</n>. When Jesus saw <n>[the evidence of]</n> their faith <n>[i.e., the man’s four friends breaking open the roof and lowering him through it. See Mark 2:4-5]</n>, He said to the paralytic, “Son, cheer up, your sins are forgiven.”


text:
Seeing this, certain experts in the Law of Moses said to themselves, “This man is speaking against God.”


text:
But in order that you may know that the Son of man has authority to forgive people’s sins on earth, (then He said to the man afflicted with paralysis), ‘Get up, pick up your cot and go home.’”


text:
But when the large crowds saw <n>[what had happened]</n>, they were filled with deep reverence and gave honor to God for giving such authority to men.


text:
As Jesus moved on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the toll booth <n>[i.e., collecting taxes]</n>. He said to him, “Become my follower.” And he got up and followed Him.


text:
And so it happened, as Jesus was having a meal at Matthew’s house, a number of <n>[other]</n> tax collectors and worldly people came to sit down with Him and His disciples.


text:
And when the Pharisees saw this they said to His disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and worldly people?”


text:
When Jesus heard this, He said, “People who are healthy do not need a doctor; but <n>[only]</n> sick people do.


text:
Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy and not <n>[only]</n> sacrifice.’ For I did not come to call righteous people <n>[to be my followers]</n> but sinners.”


text:
Some of John’s disciples came to Jesus saying, “Why is it that we and the Pharisees fast frequently <n>[i.e., going without food and/or drink for religious reasons]</n>, but your disciples do not fast <n>[at all]</n>?”


text:
Jesus said to them, “Can the groomsmen act sadly while the groom is still with them? But the time will come when the groom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast.


text:
No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth onto an old garment; for what was intended to cover up <n>[the hole]</n> actually tears away <n>[part of]</n> the garment <n>[i.e., when it shrinks]</n>, causing a bigger hole.


text:
Also, people do not put freshly squeezed grape juice into bottles made of previously used animal skins. If they did, the <n>[old dried-out]</n> animal skins would break open and the grape juice would <n>[all]</n> leak out, and the animal skins would become useless. But people put freshly squeezed grape juice into newly prepared animal skin bottles. That way both of them will survive.”


text:
While Jesus spoke these things, a leader of the <n>[Jewish]</n> synagogue <n>[named Jairus. See Mark 5:22-43]</n> came and worshiped Him, saying, “My daughter has just died, but if you come and place your hand on her, she will live <n>[again]</n>.”


text:
But just then a woman who had been bleeding for twelve years came up behind Him and touched the edge of His robe.


text:
When Jesus turned and saw her, He said, “Take courage, daughter, your faith has made you well.” And the woman was healed that <n>[very]</n> moment.


text:
When Jesus went into the leader <n>[of the synagogue’s]</n> house, He saw musicians <n>[playing a funeral dirge]</n> and the crowd carrying on <n>[in mournful wails]</n>.


text:
He said, “Stand back, for the young lady is not <n>[permanently]</n> dead, but <n>[rather]</n> is sleeping.” And the people laughed at Him scornfully.


text:
But after the crowd was sent outside, Jesus entered <n>[her room, along with her parents and three of His disciples. See Mark 5:37-40]</n> and took her by the hand, and the young lady rose up <n>[from the dead]</n>.


text:
Now as Jesus moved on from there, two blind men followed Him <n>[i.e., probably being led by sighted persons]</n>. They were shouting, “Have pity on us, son of David!”


text:
And when He had entered the house <n>[i.e., probably a friend’s house there in Capernaum. See 8:20]</n>, the blind men came in <n>[after Him]</n>. Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do what you are asking?” They replied, “Yes, Lord.”


text:
And <n>[immediately]</n> they were able to see. Jesus then strongly urged them, saying, “Make sure that no one knows <n>[what I have done for you]</n>.”


text:
When the evil spirit was driven out <n>[by Jesus]</n> the <n>[former]</n> deaf-mute began to speak, and the crowds marveled, saying, “No one in Israel has ever seen this done before.”


text:
But the Pharisees said, “He is driving out evil spirits by <n>[the power of]</n> the chief of evil spirits.”


text:
Jesus traveled throughout all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the <n>[coming]</n> kingdom and healing all kinds of diseases and illnesses.


text:
But when He saw the large crowds He felt compassion for them because they were distressed and disoriented like sheep without a shepherd.


text:
Then He said to His disciples, “Certainly there is plenty to harvest but there are <n>[too]</n> few people to do the work. You should pray to the Lord of the harvest to send <n>[more]</n> workers out into the field to gather His crop.”


text:
Jesus then called His twelve apostles <n>[see next verse]</n> to Him and gave them authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal all kinds of diseases and illnesses.


text:
Now the names of the twelve apostles were: First, Simon, also called Peter, Andrew, his brother, James and John, sons of Zebedee,


text:
Philip, Bartholomew <n>[i.e., the same as Nathaniel. See John 1:45]</n>, Thomas <n>[i.e., the same as Didymus. See John 11:16]</n>, Matthew, the tax collector <n>[i.e., the same as Levi. See Mark 2:14]</n>, James, the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus <n>[i.e., the same as Judas, son of James. See Luke 6:16]</n>,


text:
Simon, the Cananaean <n>[i.e., the same as the Zealot. See Luke 6:15]</n>, and Judas Iscariot, who also <n>[besides being an apostle]</n> was His betrayer.


text:
Jesus sent these twelve apostles out and ordered them saying, “Do not go on any road leading to Gentile territory or enter any town of the Samaritans.


text:
Heal sick people, raise people from the dead, restore health to those with infectious skin diseases, and drive out evil spirits. You have received <n>[blessings]</n> freely, <n>[now]</n> give them out freely.


text:
or a traveling bag <n>[for personal belongings]</n>, or a change of jackets or shoes, or <n>[even]</n> a walking stick <n>[Note: By comparing this and the restriction in Matt. 10:10 with the permission given in Mark 6:8, the harmony seems to be “if you do not already have a walking stick, do not get one”]</n>. For the worker deserves having his food provided.


text:
Then inquire around for a trustworthy family in every town or village you enter, and stay there <n>[with them]</n> until it is time to move on.


text:
When you enter a <n>[particular]</n> house, greet the people warmly <n>[Note: The usual Jewish greeting was to say “Peace to you,” See Luke 10:4]</n>.


text:
And if the people seem trustworthy, express your wish for blessings to rest upon them. But if they prove to be untrustworthy, may those blessings remain on you <n>[instead]</n>.


text:
And whoever does not welcome you or listen to what you have to say, shake the dust off of your shoes as you leave that house or town. <n>[Note: This was a Jewish custom showing disdain and intended to suggest unworthiness]</n>


text:
It is true when I say to you, the districts around Sodom and Gomorrah <n>[i.e., despite their gross sins]</n> will be shown more leniency than that town on the Day of Judgment.


text:
“Here is how it will be: I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore you should be as crafty <n>[Note: The Greek word here is “sensible”]</n> as snakes, yet as harmless <n>[Note: The Greek word is “sincere”]</n> as doves.


text:
But, watch out for people, for they will turn you over to the <n>[Jewish]</n> councils <n>[for judgment]</n> and will have you flogged in their synagogues.


text:
Yes, you will <n>[even]</n> be brought in front of governors and kings for being loyal to me. <n>[This will give you an opportunity]</n> for witnessing to them <n>[as well]</n> as to the <n>[unconverted]</n> Gentiles.


text:
But when they turn you over <n>[to them]</n>, do not worry about how to speak or what you should say. For you will be told <n>[i.e., by God]</n> what to say at the right time.


text:
For it will not be you who speaks, but <n>[rather]</n> the Holy Spirit of your Father will be speaking in you.


text:
<n>[At that time]</n> a person will turn his brother over to be killed, and the father <n>[will do the same to]</n> his child. And children will rebel against their parents and turn them over to be killed.


text:
And you will be hated by everyone for being loyal to me. But the person who endures <n>[this persecution by remaining faithful]</n> to the end <n>[of his life]</n> is the one who will be saved <n>[i.e., from spiritual and physical destruction]</n>.


text:
When they persecute you in one town, run to the next one, for it is true when I tell you, you will not have traveled through <n>[all]</n> the towns of the Israelites until the Son of man comes <n>[i.e., in His kingdom]</n>.


text:
A disciple is doing well if he can be <n>[as good]</n> as his teacher, and the slave <n>[as good]</n> as his master. If they have called the master of the house <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n> Beelzebub <n>[i.e., the chief of evil spirits. See Mark 3:22]</n>, how much more <n>[likely]</n> will they call members of his household <n>[i.e., the disciples]</n> the same thing!


text:
Therefore, do not be afraid <n>[of these persecutors]</n>, for there is nothing <n>[they do that will remain]</n> covered up; it will <n>[all]</n> be exposed. And there is nothing they will do secretly that will not be made known <n>[openly]</n>.


text:
What I am telling you in the darkness <n>[i.e., in obscurity]</n>, you tell it in the light <n>[i.e., openly]</n>. And what you hear <n>[whispered]</n> in your ear <n>[you should]</n> declare it from the housetops.


text:
And do not be afraid of those who can kill your body but not your soul. Instead, fear Him <n>[i.e., God]</n> who is able to destroy both your soul and body in hell. <n>[See note on 5:29]</n>.


text:
Are not two sparrows sold <n>[in the market for food]</n> for a small coin <n>[Note: The coin mentioned here was worth about a half hour’s worth of a farm laborer’s pay, or about $4.50 in 2005]</n>? And not a <n>[single]</n> one of them can fall to the ground without your Father <n>[knowing about it]</n>.


text:
God even knows the number of hairs on your head <n>[Note: The average full head of hair has approximately 25,000 hairs]</n>.


text:
“Therefore, every person who acknowledges me in front of people <n>[i.e., to be their Lord and Christ]</n>, I will acknowledge him <n>[i.e., to be my disciple]</n> in front of my Father in heaven.


text:
But whoever disowns me in front of people <n>[i.e., denies that I am the Christ, or that he is a disciple. See John 18:15- 17, 25-27]</n>, I will disown him in front of my Father in heaven.


text:
“Do not think that I came to bring <n>[only]</n> peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace <n>[only]</n> but <n>[also]</n> a sword <n>[of division. See Luke 12:51]</n>.


text:
For I came to set a person at odds against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.


text:
The person who loves his father and mother more than me does not deserve me <n>[i.e., to be my disciple]</n>. And the person who loves his son or daughter more than me does not deserve me <n>[i.e., to be my disciple]</n>.


text:
And the person who does not accept his cross <n>[i.e., his responsibilities with all their difficulties]</n> and become my follower does not deserve me.


text:
The person who finds <n>[everything to satisfy him in]</n> this life <n>[here on earth]</n> will lose <n>[never ending life]</n>. But the person who <n>[is willing to]</n> lose <n>[the comforts and security of]</n> this life <n>[here on earth]</n> for my sake <n>[i.e., in loyal service to me]</n> will find it <n>[i.e., never ending life]</n>. <n>[See Mark 10:29-30]</n>


text:
“The person who welcomes you <n>[into his home]</n> welcomes me. And the person who welcomes me <n>[into his life]</n> welcomes God, who sent me.


text:
The person who welcomes a prophet because he is a prophet receives the <n>[same]</n> reward the prophet gets. And the person who welcomes a good man because he is good receives the <n>[same]</n> reward the good man gets.


text:
Truly I tell you, whoever gives a mere drink of cold water to one of these least significant <n>[disciples of mine]</n> because he is a disciple, will certainly not lose his <n>[temporal or eternal]</n> reward.”


text:
And so it happened, when Jesus had finished instructing His twelve apostles, He left there <n>[and went]</n> to teach and preach in the <n>[other]</n> Israelite towns. <n>[See 10:23]</n>


text:
Now while still in prison, John <n>[the Immerser]</n> heard about the things Christ was doing, <n>[so]</n> he sent <n>[word]</n> through his disciples


text:
<n>[how]</n> blind people are receiving back their sight, and crippled people are walking <n>[again]</n>, and people with infectious skin diseases are being healed, and deaf-mutes are hearing <n>[and speaking (?) again]</n>, and people are being raised <n>[from the dead]</n>, and poor people are having the good news preached to them.


text:
As the messengers <n>[sent by John. See Luke 7:24]</n> went on their way, Jesus began to talk to the crowds about John. <n>[He said]</n>, “What did you expect to see when you went out into the desert? A tall stem swaying in the wind?


text:
What did you expect to see? A man dressed in fancy clothes? Look, people who wear fancy clothes live in kings’ palaces.


text:
Why did you go out <n>[to the desert]</n>? To see a prophet? Yes, I should say <n>[he was]</n>, and much more than a prophet.


text:
He is the one about whom it was written <n>[Mal. 3:1]</n>, ‘Look, I <n>[will]</n> send my messenger on ahead of you. He will prepare the pathway in front of you.’


text:
It is true when I tell you, among <n>[all]</n> those born of women, no one greater than John the Immerser has come along. Yet the least significant person in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.


text:
And from the days of John the Immerser the kingdom of heaven is experiencing turmoil, for violent men are <n>[trying to]</n> take control of it <n>[by bringing it into existence]</n> forcibly <n>[i.e., before its appointed time. See Acts 1:6- 7]</n>.


text:
For all of the prophets and the Law of Moses prophesied <n>[of this kingdom]</n> up until the time of John.


text:
And if you are willing to accept <n>[this truth]</n>, this person <n>[i.e., John]</n> fulfills <n>[the prophecy of]</n> the coming of Elijah <n>[See Mal. 4:5-6]</n>.


text:
“But what should I compare the people of this generation with? They are like children sitting in the open shopping market, who call out to their playmates,


text:
‘We <n>[pretended like we]</n> were making music <n>[at a wedding]</n> but you did not dance; we <n>[pretended like we]</n> were wailing <n>[at a funeral]</n> but you did not beat your chest <n>[in mourning]</n>.’


text:
For when John came, he did not eat or drink <n>[on festive occasions]</n> and people said, ‘He is dominated by an evil spirit.’


text:
<n>[Then]</n> the Son of man came eating and drinking <n>[at festive occasions]</n> and they said, ‘Look, He is a glutton and a drunkard and a friend of tax collectors and worldly people.’ It proves that <n>[God’s]</n> wise counsel is right by the way things turn out.”


text:
Then Jesus began to rebuke the people of the towns where most of His powerful miracles were performed because they did not repent <n>[when they saw Him perform them]</n>.


text:
<n>[He said]</n> “It will be too bad for you, Chorazin! It will be too bad for you, Bethsaida! For if the powerful miracles had been performed in <n>[the cities of]</n> Tyre and Sidon which were performed in your presence, they would have repented long ago, <n>[demonstrating it]</n> by wearing sackcloth <n>[i.e., a coarse cloth made of goat hair]</n> and throwing ashes <n>[into the air]</n>.


text:
But I tell you, Tyre and Sidon will be shown more leniency on the judgment day than you people will.


text:
And Capernaum, do you think you will be lifted up toward heaven <n>[as a proud city]</n>? <n>[No indeed]</n>, you will <n>[surely]</n> go down to the place of the unseen <n>[i.e., become obscure or obliterated as a city]</n>. For if the powerful miracles had been performed in Sodom which were performed in your presence, it would have remained <n>[even]</n> until today.


text:
About that time Jesus said <n>[in prayer]</n>, “I thank you, O, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things <n>[i.e., the significance of Jesus’ words and works]</n> from those who <n>[thought they]</n> were wise and intelligent and have <n>[instead]</n> revealed them to people who are child-like.


text:
“All things have been entrusted to me by my Father and no one <n>[truly]</n> knows the Son except the Father. And neither does anyone <n>[truly]</n> know the Father except the Son and that person to whom the Son wants to reveal Him.


text:
Come to me, all of you who are overworked and overburdened and I will give you rest <n>[i.e., spiritual refreshment]</n>.


text:
Accept my reins <n>[on your life]</n>, and learn about me, because I am gentle and humble, and <n>[in my service]</n> you will experience rest in your spirits.


text:
For my reins <n>[on your life]</n> are easy <n>[to respond to]</n> and the burden I place <n>[on you]</n> is light.”


text:
About that time Jesus was walking through a grain field on the Sabbath day. His disciples were hungry so began picking off some heads of grain to eat <n>[the kernels]</n>. <n>[Note: It was an accepted practice for people in that day to be permitted to do this as they walked along paths bordering a grain field]</n>.


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But when the Pharisees saw this, they said to Him, “Look, your disciples are doing what is against the Law of Moses to do on a Sabbath day.”


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Jesus replied, “Have you not read what King David did when he and his men were hungry? <n>[I Sam. 21:6]</n>


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He entered the house of God <n>[i.e., the Temple]</n> and ate the ‘Bread of Presence’, which was not permissible, according to the Law of Moses, for him or those with him to do, since it was reserved only for the priests.


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Or, have you not read in the Law of Moses that the priests in the Temple defiled the Sabbath day <n>[i.e., by doing the ‘work’ of offering sacrifices]</n> and were not held guilty <n>[of wrongdoing]</n>? <n>[See Num. 28:9-10]</n>


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If you had <n>[fully]</n> understood what this means: ‘I desire mercy and not <n>[only]</n> sacrifice,’ you would not have condemned someone who was not guilty <n>[of wrongdoing]</n>.


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and there He saw a man with a deformed hand. They asked Him, “Is it permissible by the Law of Moses to heal someone on a Sabbath day?”


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He answered them, “Which one of you who has <n>[only]</n> one sheep, and it fell in a ditch, would not reach down and lift it out <n>[even]</n> if it were on a Sabbath day?


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Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep? Therefore, it is permissible by the Law of Moses to do what is good on a Sabbath day.”


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Then Jesus said to the man “Reach out your hand.” And when he stretched it out, it became normal, just like the other one.


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When Jesus perceived what they were doing He withdrew from that place. Many people followed Him and He healed all of them.


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<n>[Isa. 13:1ff]</n> “Look, see my <n>[i.e., God’s]</n> servant whom I have chosen; my dear One <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n> with whom my soul is very pleased: I will put my Holy Spirit on Him, and He will proclaim judgment to the <n>[unconverted]</n> Gentiles.


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He will not be contentious nor shout out <n>[loudly]</n>. Neither will anyone hear His voice <n>[raised]</n> in the streets.


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He will not <n>[even]</n> break a wilted stalk or put out a smoldering <n>[lamp]</n> wick until He exercises judgment <n>[upon mankind through the Gospel]</n> in order to bring about victory <n>[i.e., in people’s lives]</n>.


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Then a person dominated by an evil spirit, who was <n>[also]</n> blind and mute, was brought to Jesus. He healed the man so that he was able <n>[both]</n> to speak and see <n>[again]</n>.


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But when the Pharisees heard this, they said, “This man does not drive out evil spirits except by <n>[the power of]</n> Beelzebub, the chief of evil spirits.”


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Knowing their thoughts Jesus said to them, “Every kingdom <n>[plagued]</n> with internal division will end in ruin. And every city or household divided from within will not survive.


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If Satan drives out Satan, he is divided against himself, <n>[so]</n> how then can his kingdom stand?


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And if I drive out evil spirits by <n>[the power of]</n> Beelzebub, by whom do they <n>[i.e., your people]</n> drive them out? So, they become your judges.


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But if I drive out evil spirits by <n>[the power of]</n> the Holy Spirit, then <n>[that is evidence that]</n> the kingdom of God has come into your midst <n>[i.e., by my presence and ministry]</n>.


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Or, how can someone enter a strong man’s house and steal his belongings unless he first ties up the strong man? Only then will he be able to steal <n>[his belongings]</n> from his house.


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The person who is not on my side is <n>[actually]</n> against me. And the person who does not gather <n>[people to me]</n> is <n>[actually]</n> driving them away <n>[from me]</n>.


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Therefore I tell you, people will be forgiven of every sin and abusive word spoken <n>[against God]</n>. But abusive words spoken against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.


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And whoever speaks an <n>[abusive]</n> word against the Son of man will be forgiven <n>[of it]</n>, but whoever speaks <n>[an abusive word]</n> against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven <n>[of it]</n>, not in this world nor the one to come.


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Either be a healthy tree and produce wholesome fruit, or be a diseased tree and produce rotten fruit, for <n>[the quality of]</n> a tree will be recognized by <n>[the quality of]</n> its fruit.


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You children of snakes! Since you are evil, how do you expect to speak good things? For the mouth speaks what the heart is filled with.


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The good person produces good things from his storehouse of goodness. But the evil person produces bad things from his storehouse of evil.


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And I say to you, a person will <n>[have to]</n> give an account <n>[to God]</n> on the Day of Judgment for every careless word he had spoken <n>[while on earth]</n>.


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For you will be considered righteous by the words <n>[you speak]</n> and you will be condemned by the words <n>[you speak]</n>.”


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Then certain experts in the Law of Moses and some Pharisees answered Jesus, saying, “Teacher, we would like to see you perform a <n>[supernatural]</n> sign.”


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But He said to them, “It is <n>[only]</n> an evil and unfaithful <n>[i.e., to God]</n> generation of people that looks for a <n>[supernatural]</n> sign. And there will not be any sign given to it except the <n>[supernatural]</n> sign <n>[demonstrated in the life]</n> of Jonah, the prophet.


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For just like Jonah was in the stomach of the huge fish for three days and nights, so the Son of man will be in the heart of the earth <n>[i.e., the cave-tomb]</n> for three days and nights.


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The people of Nineveh will stand up on the judgment day along with the people of this generation and will condemn them because they repented <n>[i.e., changed their hearts and lives]</n> when hearing the preaching of Jonah <n>[See Jonah 3:5-10]</n>, and <n>[now]</n> Someone greater than Jonah is here <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n>.


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The queen of the South <n>[Note: This queen was from Sheba, I Kings 10:1, which was probably in Arabia]</n> will stand up on the judgment day along with the people of this generation and will condemn them because she came from a great distance to hear <n>[and see]</n> Solomon’s wisdom <n>[I Kings 10:1ff]</n> and <n>[now]</n> Someone greater than Solomon is here <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n>.


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But when an evil spirit has been driven out of a person, it roams through desert regions trying to find rest but cannot find it.


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Then it says <n>[to itself]</n>, I will return to my house which I came out of <n>[i.e., the body of the person it dominated]</n>. But when it returns <n>[to that body]</n> it finds it empty, cleaned out and <n>[newly]</n> decorated.


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Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits, more evil than itself, and they reenter <n>[the body]</n> and <n>[begin to]</n> live there, so that the latter state of that person becomes worse than the former <n>[state]</n>. It will be the same way with the people of this evil generation.”


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While Jesus was still speaking to the large crowds, His mother and <n>[half-]</n> brothers were standing outside <n>[of the large house. See 13:1]</n> wanting to speak to Him.


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Someone <n>[from the crowd]</n> said to Him, “Look, your mother and your brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.”


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Then He stretched out His hand toward His disciples and said, “Look, <n>[here is]</n> my mother and my brothers! For whoever will do what my Father in heaven desires, is my brother and sister and mother.”


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On that <n>[same]</n> day, Jesus went out of the house and sat down on the shore of the lake <n>[i.e., Lake Galilee]</n>.


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Great crowds gathered around Him so that He went and sat down in a boat <n>[just off shore]</n>, while the crowd stood on the beach.


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And He spoke many things to them in parables <n>[i.e., brief stories to illustrate His teaching]</n>, saying, “once a farmer went out <n>[to his field]</n> to plant grain.


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And some of the seed he sowed <n>[i.e., scattering it by hand]</n> landed along the side of the road and birds came and ate it.


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And other seed fell on rocky ground where there was not much soil and immediately it sprouted up because the soil was so shallow.


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But when the sun came up these tender sprouts were scorched and, since they had such tiny roots, they <n>[quickly]</n> withered away.


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And other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and <n>[eventually]</n> choked out the tender sprouts.


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And <n>[still]</n> other seed fell onto fertile soil, where some of it produced a crop of one hundred, some sixty and some thirty times <n>[as much as was planted]</n>.


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Jesus’ disciples came and said to Him, “why are you speaking to them <n>[i.e., the large crowds]</n> by using parables?”


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He replied, “You disciples are being given an understanding of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but the crowds of people are not.


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For to the person who <n>[already]</n> has something, <n>[more]</n> will be given, so he will have a larger amount <n>[i.e., of understanding]</n>, but from the person who has <n>[almost]</n> nothing, even <n>[the little]</n> he has will be taken away from him.


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Therefore, I am speaking to them with parables because <n>[although]</n> they can see, they <n>[really]</n> do not perceive, and <n>[although]</n> they can hear, they <n>[really]</n> do not comprehend, and so they <n>[utterly]</n> fail to understand <n>[what I am trying to get across]</n>.


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So, the prophecy of Isaiah is being fulfilled by them, which says, <n>[Isa. 6:9f]</n> ‘You will hear all right, but you will not understand <n>[what you hear]</n>. You will see all right but you will not perceive <n>[what you see]</n>.


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For these people’s minds are dull, and their ears have difficulty hearing, and they have shut their eyes. For if this were not the case, they would perceive what they see with their eyes, and comprehend what they hear with their ears, and understand with their minds and would turn <n>[back to God]</n> again so I would heal them <n>[from their sins]</n>.’


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But your eyes are fortunate for they <n>[really]</n> see, and so are your ears, for they <n>[really]</n> hear.


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For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people have desired to see the things you are seeing, but did not get to. They desired to hear the things you are hearing, but did not get to.


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When anyone hears the message of the kingdom but does not understand it, the evil one <n>[i.e., the devil]</n> comes to him and grabs away what had been sown in his heart. This is the person who was scattered to the side of the road.


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And the person who was sown on rocky ground is the one who hears the message and immediately welcomes it joyfully,


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but since he has such a shallow root, he lasts for <n>[only]</n> a short while. Then when trouble or persecution comes because of the message, immediately he falls away <n>[from God]</n>.


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And the person who was sown among the thorns is the one who hears the message, but the anxieties of the world <n>[i.e., of life]</n> and the deceptiveness of <n>[material]</n> riches choke the message and he becomes unproductive.


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But the person who was sown on the fertile soil is the one who hears the message and understands it. Truly, he produces a crop that yields one hundred, sixty or thirty times <n>[as much as was planted]</n>.”


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<n>[Then]</n> Jesus told them another parable, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is similar to a person who sowed seed in his field,


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but while his workers were asleep his enemy came and scattered weed seeds throughout his wheat field and then left.


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The farmer’s hired hands came and asked him, ‘Did you not plant <n>[only]</n> good seed in your field? Where did the weeds come from <n>[then]</n>?’


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And he said to them, ‘An enemy <n>[of mine]</n> has done this <n>[to me]</n>.’ The hired hands replied, ‘Do you want us then to go and gather up the weeds?’


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But the farmer said, ‘No, for while you are gathering up the weeds, you might root up <n>[some of]</n> the wheat with them.


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Let both of them grow together until it is time for the harvest; then at that time, I will tell the harvesters, “Gather up the weeds first, and bind them up into bundles to burn. But gather the wheat into my barn.”’”


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Jesus told them another parable, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is similar to a seed from the mustard tree which a man took and planted in his field.


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This seed is indeed <n>[one of]</n> the smallest of all seeds, but when it is <n>[fully]</n> grown, it is larger than <n>[other]</n> plants, and <n>[even]</n> becomes a tree, so that the birds of the sky come and roost on its branches.”


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Then He told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is similar to yeast, which a woman worked into a batch of dough <n>[i.e., the amount was over half a bushel]</n>, until <n>[the dough]</n> was completely leavened <n>[by it]</n>.”


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Jesus spoke all these things to the crowds with parables. He did not say anything to them without using a parable.


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<n>[This was]</n> so that what was spoken by the prophet would be fulfilled, when he said <n>[Psa. 78:2]</n>, “I will open my mouth <n>[to speak]</n> with parables. I will say things that have been hidden from the beginning of time.”


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He then left the crowds and went into the house. <n>[While there]</n> His disciples came to Him, and said, “Explain to us <n>[the meaning of]</n> the parable of the weeds in the field.”


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and the field <n>[represents]</n> the world. The good seed <n>[represents]</n> the children who belong to the kingdom, and the weeds <n>[represent]</n> the children who belong to the evil one <n>[i.e., the devil]</n>.


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The enemy who scattered the weed seeds is the devil; the harvest time is the end of the world; and the harvesters are angels.


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The Son of man will send out His angels and they will gather out of His kingdom all those people who cause others to fall away <n>[from God]</n> and those who <n>[continue to]</n> sin.


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Then the people who did what was right will shine out like the sun in their Father’s kingdom. The person who has ears <n>[to hear with]</n> ought to listen <n>[to this]</n> carefully.


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“The kingdom of heaven is similar to a person finding a treasure hidden in a field. After finding it, he was so happy he hid it <n>[again]</n>, then went out and sold everything he owned so he could buy that field.


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“Again, the kingdom of heaven is similar to a <n>[retail]</n> merchant searching to buy some fine pearls.


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“Again, the kingdom of heaven is similar to a drag­net <n>[for fishing]</n> that was cast into the lake and gathered all kinds <n>[of fish]</n>.


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When it became full, the fishermen dragged it up onto the shore. Then they sat down and, <n>[sorting their catch]</n>, placed the good <n>[i.e., edible fish]</n> into containers, but threw out the bad <n>[i.e., inedible ones]</n>.


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At the end of the world it will be that same way. The angels will come and divide the sinful people from the ones who did what was right,


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Then He said to them, “Therefore every expert in the Law of Moses who has been made a disciple of the kingdom of heaven is similar to a <n>[wealthy]</n> homeowner who brought <n>[both]</n> new and old things out of his supply of goods.”


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And it happened, when Jesus had finished <n>[giving]</n> these parables, He went away from that place.


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And when He came to His home town <n>[i.e., Nazareth]</n>, Jesus taught people in their synagogues to their amazement. They said, “Where did this man get <n>[such]</n> wisdom and <n>[the ability to perform]</n> these supernatural deeds?


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Is not he the carpenter’s <n>[i.e., Joseph’s]</n> son? <n>[And]</n> is not his mother named Mary, and are not his brothers <n>[named]</n> James, Joseph, Simon and Judas?


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And are not his sisters all <n>[here]</n> with us? Where then did he get all these things <n>[i.e., wisdom, knowledge, miracles, etc]</n>?”


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And they were led to doubt His true identity. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet does not go without being honored, except in His own home town and among His own family members.”


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So, He did not perform very many supernatural deeds in that place because of the people’s lack of faith.


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About that time Herod the tetrarch <n>[Note: This man was the son of Herod the Great (See 2:1 and governor of that district]</n> heard the report about what Jesus had been saying and doing.


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He told his servants, “This must be John, the Immerser; he has risen from the dead and <n>[that explains how]</n> these powers can work through him <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n>.”


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For Herod had arrested John and had him chained and put in prison in order to please Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife.


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Now Herod wanted to have him put to death, <n>[but hesitated]</n>, fearing the crowd, because they considered John to be a prophet.


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But when Herod’s birthday came, Herodias’ daughter <n>[Note: According to Josephus, her name was Salome]</n>, pleased him by <n>[her sensual]</n> dancing in front of the party guests.


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<n>[Herod was so pleased with her performance that]</n> he promised, with an oath, to give her whatever she asked for <n>[i.e., with limitations. See Mark 6:23]</n>.


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Her mother persuaded her to say, “Give me the head of John, the Immerser, here on this <n>[large]</n> platter.”


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Now King Herod became very distressed <n>[over such a gruesome request]</n>; but because he had <n>[promised with]</n> oaths and <n>[to look good in front of]</n> his party guests, he ordered John’s head to be given <n>[to her]</n>.


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His head was brought on a <n>[large]</n> platter and given to the young woman <n>[i.e., Salome]</n>, and she took it to her mother <n>[i.e., Herodias]</n>.


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Jesus’ disciples came and took the body and buried it; then they went and told Jesus <n>[all about the incident]</n>.


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Now when Jesus heard about it He left there in a boat and went <n>[across to the east side of the lake]</n> to a deserted place. When the crowds found out <n>[He was leaving]</n> they followed Him <n>[i.e., by traveling around]</n> on the shore from the <n>[surrounding]</n> towns.


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When Jesus came out <n>[of His place of seclusion]</n> and saw a large crowd, He felt a deep compassion for them and healed their sick people.


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When it became evening, the disciples came to Him and said, “This place is deserted and it is getting late. Send the crowds away so they can go into the towns and buy food <n>[for their supper]</n>.”


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And they replied, “But we have here <n>[only]</n> five loaves of <n>[barley]</n> bread <n>[See John 6:9]</n> and two <n>[probably smoked]</n> fish.”


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He ordered the crowds to recline on the grass. Then He took the five loaves of bread and two fish and, looking up to heaven, asked God’s blessing on the food, broke it <n>[in pieces]</n>, then gave it to the disciples to distribute to the crowds.


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They all ate until they were full, then gathered up twelve baskets full of the remaining broken pieces.


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Then immediately Jesus ordered the disciples to enter the boat and row on ahead of Him to the other side <n>[i.e., to the west side of Lake Galilee]</n> until He could send the crowds away.


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After He had dispersed them, He went up into the mountain by Himself to pray. When evening had come He was there alone.


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<n>[Meanwhile]</n> the boat, still some distance from shore, was being severely battered by the waves because of the opposing winds.


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Then between three and six o’clock in the morning Jesus came walking to them on the <n>[surface of the]</n> lake.


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When the disciples saw Him walking on the water they became frightened, saying, “It is a spirit!” and cried out with fear.


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Peter answered Him, “Lord, if it is <n>[really]</n> you, ask me to come to you <n>[walking]</n> on the water.”


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And Jesus replied, “Come <n>[ahead]</n>.” So, Peter climbed over the side of the boat and went to Jesus, walking on the water.


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But when he saw the <n>[furious]</n> wind he became fearful and began to sink, shouting out, “Lord, save me!”


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And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him and said, “You have such little faith; why did you doubt?”


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And when they <n>[i.e., both Jesus and Peter]</n> got up into the boat, the wind <n>[immediately]</n> stopped.


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And when they had <n>[finally]</n> crossed over <n>[i.e., to the west side of the lake]</n>, they landed at the region of Gennesaret.


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When the people there recognized Jesus, they sent to all the surrounding regions and had all who were sick brought to Him.


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They begged Him that they might only touch the edge of His robe. And all those who got to touch it were made well.


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“Why do your disciples violate the tradition of the <n>[Jewish]</n> elders? For they do not <n>[ceremonially]</n> wash their hands before eating <n>[their meals]</n>.”


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And He answered them, “Why do you also violate the commandments of God by <n>[following]</n> your traditions?


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For God said, <n>[Ex. 20:12]</n>, ‘Give honor to your father and mother,’ and <n>[Ex. 21:17]</n>, ‘Whoever says bad things about his father or mother should surely be put to death.’


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But you say, ‘Whoever says to his father or mother, I have given to God the money I could have helped you with;’


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this person does not honor his father <n>[or mother]</n>. You have made God’s message useless by <n>[thus enforcing]</n> your traditions.


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‘These people <n>[claim to]</n> honor me with their lips <n>[i.e., by what they say]</n>, but their heart is far from <n>[honoring]</n> me.


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They are worshiping me for nothing <n>[because they are]</n> teaching principles that are <n>[merely]</n> the requirements of men.’”


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It is not what enters the mouth of a person that <n>[spiritually]</n> corrupts him, but what proceeds out of his mouth that <n>[spiritually]</n> corrupts him.”


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Then His disciples came and said to Him, “Do you know that the Pharisees were upset <n>[with you]</n> when they heard <n>[you say]</n> that?”


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<n>[So]</n>, let these Pharisees alone; they are blind leaders. And if a blind person leads a blind person, both of them will fall into a ditch.”


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Do you not realize that whatever enters a person’s mouth goes into his stomach and <n>[eventually]</n> passes out into the toilet?


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But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from his heart. These are what <n>[spiritually]</n> corrupt a person.


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For evil thoughts, murder, extramarital affairs, sexual immorality, stealing, perjury, slander --- <n>[all these]</n> come from a person’s heart,


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and are what corrupt him <n>[spiritually]</n>. But eating <n>[a meal]</n> with <n>[ceremonially]</n> unwashed hands does not <n>[spiritually]</n> corrupt him.”


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And Jesus left there and went into the regions of Tyre and Sidon <n>[i.e., cities on the northwest coast of Palestine]</n>.


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Just then a Canaanite woman came out of that area <n>[Note: Mark 7:26 calls her a Syrophoenician Gentile]</n>, crying, “O Lord, son of David, have pity on me. My daughter is seriously troubled by an evil spirit.”


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But He did not say a word to her. His disciples came and begged Him; “Send her away, for she is <n>[continually]</n> shouting at us <n>[as we go along]</n>.”


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And He answered <n>[her]</n>, “It is not proper to take bread away from the children and throw it to the dogs.”


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Then Jesus answered her, “O, woman, how great your faith is. May what you want be done for you.” And her daughter was healed that very moment.


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Jesus left there and went <n>[over]</n> near Lake Galilee. He went up into a mountain and sat down there.


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Large crowds came to Him, bringing crippled, blind, deaf-mute, disabled and many other <n>[sick]</n> people and laid them down at His feet. And He healed <n>[all of]</n> them,


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so that the crowd marveled when they saw deaf-mutes talking, injured people healed, crippled people walking and blind people seeing. And they honored the God of the Israelites <n>[for such great miracles]</n>.


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Jesus called His disciples to Him and said, “I feel deeply moved over this crowd, because they have continued listening to me for three days now, and have nothing <n>[left]</n> to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry because they will become weak along the way.”


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And the disciples said to Him, “Where will we get enough loaves of bread to feed a large crowd in <n>[such]</n> a deserted place <n>[as this]</n>?”


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Jesus replied, “How many loaves of bread do you have?” They said, “<n>[We have]</n> seven <n>[loaves]</n> and a few small fish.”


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and He took the seven loaves of bread and the fish and gave thanks to God for them. He divided the food and gave it to the disciples who, <n>[in turn]</n>, distributed it to the crowds.


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They all ate until they were full; then gathered up seven baskets full of broken pieces which were left over.


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Jesus then sent the crowds away while He boarded a boat and crossed the lake to the region of Magadan <n>[i.e., the west side of Lake Galilee]</n>.


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The Pharisees and Sadducees came <n>[and attempted]</n> to test Jesus <n>[by]</n> asking Him to perform a <n>[supernatural]</n> sign from heaven.


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But He answered them, The rest of this verse and the next verse are omitted in most ancient manuscripts: “When the sky is reddish in the evening, you predict fair weather <n>[for the next day]</n>.


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And when the sky is reddish and overcast in the morning, you predict <n>[that it will be]</n> bad weather that day. You know how to interpret <n>[weather]</n> conditions from the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times <n>[i.e., what will happen in the spiritual realm]</n>”.


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“It is an evil and spiritually unfaithful generation of people <n>[that keeps on]</n> looking for a <n>[supernatural]</n> sign; but there will be no <n>[such]</n> sign given to it except the sign of Jonah <n>[i.e., being in the huge fish for three days]</n>.” Then He left them and went away.


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Now the disciples came to the other side <n>[i.e., to the east side of the lake]</n>, but had forgotten to bring food <n>[with them]</n>.


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Jesus said to them, “Pay attention and watch out for the leavening <n>[effect]</n> of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”


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And they began reasoning among themselves, saying, “<n>[Why be concerned about yeast since]</n> we did not bring <n>[any]</n> bread?”


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Jesus, being aware of their thoughts, said, “O, you people with <n>[such]</n> little faith! Why are you reasoning among yourselves about not having bread?


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Do you not understand yet or remember that five thousand people <n>[were fed]</n> with five loaves of bread and how many baskets <n>[of pieces]</n> were picked up <n>[afterward]</n>?


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Or that four thousand people <n>[were fed]</n> with seven loaves of bread and how many baskets <n>[of pieces]</n> were picked up <n>[afterward]</n>?


text:
How is it that you do not understand that I was not speaking to you about <n>[physical]</n> bread? But <n>[rather I meant]</n> watch out for the yeast <n>[i.e., the influence]</n> of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”


text:
Then they understood that He was not telling them to watch out for the yeast in <n>[physical]</n> bread, but for the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.


text:
Now when Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, “Who are people saying that the Son of man is?”


text:
They replied, “Some say you are John the Immerser; some <n>[the prophet]</n> Elijah; and others <n>[the prophet]</n> Jeremiah, or one of the <n>[other]</n> prophets <n>[come back to life]</n>.”


text:
And Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ <n>[i.e., God’s specially chosen one]</n>, the Son of the living God.”


text:
Jesus replied, “Simon, son of Jonah, you are fortunate <n>[indeed]</n>, for this <n>[truth]</n> was not revealed to you by human beings but <n>[rather]</n> by my Father who is in heaven.


text:
And I also tell you, <n>[although]</n> you are Peter <n>[i.e., a stone]</n>, it is on this rock <n>[i.e., the truth you have just confessed]</n> that I will build my church and <n>[not even]</n> the gates of the unseen place of departed spirits will win out over it <n>[i.e., all efforts to stamp out the church by killing Christians will fail]</n>.


text:
<n>[And]</n> I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven <n>[i.e., for opening up the way into it]</n>. And whatever <n>[truth]</n> you <n>[and the other apostles. See 18:18]</n> require <n>[people to believe and practice]</n> here on earth will have already been required of them <n>[by God]</n> in heaven. And whatever <n>[truth]</n> you do not require <n>[of people]</n> on earth, will not be required <n>[by God]</n> in heaven.”


text:
From that time onward Jesus began to explain to His disciples that He would have to go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the <n>[Jewish]</n> elders, leading priests, and experts in the Law of Moses; <n>[that He would then]</n> be killed and <n>[yet]</n> raised up on the third day.


text:
Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, “I should say not, Lord; that will never happen to you.”


text:
But Jesus turned to Peter and said, “Get away from me, Satan; you are causing a hindrance to me because you are not thinking about God’s things but about men’s.”


text:
Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone wants to be my follower, he should deny self <n>[i.e., of always having its own way]</n> and lift up his cross <n>[of responsibility]</n> and <n>[then he can]</n> become my follower.


text:
For whoever would <n>[try to]</n> save his life <n>[i.e., by neglecting spiritual things]</n> will lose it <n>[i.e., miss out on the blessings of God]</n>. But whoever <n>[is willing to]</n> lose his life <n>[i.e., in commitment to God’s service]</n> for my sake will find it <n>[i.e., obtain both temporal and spiritual blessings]</n>.


text:
For what benefit is it to a person if he gains the whole world <n>[of material things]</n> but <n>[has to]</n> give up his life <n>[i.e., all the spiritual blessings]</n>? Or what should a person give in exchange for his life?


text:
For the Son of man will return in the splendor of His Father, accompanied by His angels. Then He will reward or punish every person in proportion to what he has done <n>[with his life]</n>.


text:
It is true when I tell you; some of those standing here will not die before they see the Son of man coming in His kingdom.”


text:
And after six days <n>[had passed]</n>, Jesus took Peter, James, and his brother John aside and went up into a high mountain <n>[i.e., an unidentified mountain nearby]</n>.


text:
There His whole appearance was <n>[miraculously]</n> changed in front of them. His face shone <n>[as brilliantly]</n> as the sun and His clothing became as bright as light.


text:
Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is so good for us to be here. If you wish, I will build three <n>[small]</n> shelters here, one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” <n>[Note: Perhaps Peter wanted to provide quarters for the three to stay temporarily, thus prolonging the wonderful experience. In any event, he should not have done what suggested that Moses and Elijah were equal to Jesus]</n>.


text:
While he was still talking, suddenly a bright cloud engulfed them. Just then, a voice spoke out of the cloud, saying, “This is my dearly loved Son, who is very pleasing to me; listen to Him.”


text:
And when the disciples heard <n>[the voice]</n>, they fell <n>[to the ground]</n> on their faces and became very afraid.


text:
And as they were coming down from the mountain, Jesus ordered them, saying, “Do not tell anyone about the vision <n>[you have just seen]</n> until the Son of man has been raised from the dead.”


text:
His disciples asked Him, “Why then <n>[since you are obviously the Messiah]</n> do the experts in the Law of Moses say that Elijah must come first, <n>[i.e., before the Messiah]</n>?”


text:
Jesus answered them, “Elijah truly was to come, and restore all things <n>[i.e., to their proper perspective concerning the Messiah]</n>.


text:
But I tell you that Elijah has already come, but they <n>[i.e., the Jewish leaders]</n> did not understand who he was, but <n>[instead]</n> did to him what they wanted to. In the same way, the Son of man will also suffer from what the Jews will do.”


text:
When Jesus and His disciples met the crowd <n>[that was gathered]</n>, a man came kneeling down to Jesus and saying to Him,


text:
“Lord, take pity on my son, for he has violent seizures and suffers intense pain. He often falls into a fire or into water. <n>[Note: This man was also dominated by an evil spirit. See verse 18]</n>.


text:
I brought him to <n>[some of]</n> your disciples <n>[for help]</n> but they were not able to heal him.”


text:
Jesus replied <n>[to the crowd]</n>, “You perverse generation of faithless people! How long must I be with you <n>[i.e., before you understand]</n>? How long do I have to be patient with you? Bring the sick boy to me.”


text:
Then Jesus spoke sternly to <n>[the evil spirit in]</n> the boy, and it left him, and he was immediately healed.


text:
Then Jesus’ disciples came to Him privately and said, “Why could we not drive out that evil spirit?”


text:
He answered them, “<n>[It was]</n> because you had such little faith. For truly I tell you, if you have faith as <n>[small as]</n> a mustard tree seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to that place over there’ and it would move. And nothing will be impossible for you <n>[to do]</n>.”


text:
Some manuscripts contain this verse: But this kind <n>[of spirit]</n> can not be driven out except by praying and fasting.


text:
And while the disciples were staying in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of man will be handed over to <n>[evil]</n> men


text:
and they will kill Him, but on the third day He will be raised up <n>[from the dead]</n>.” And they were very grieved <n>[when they heard this]</n>.


text:
When Jesus and His disciples came to Capernaum, the collectors of the <n>[Temple]</n> tax <n>[Note: This was the annual tax used for meeting the expenses of the Temple service and consisted of two twelve hour days’ worth of a farm laborer’s pay, or about $216 in 2005]</n> came to Peter and said, “Does not your teacher <n>[also]</n> pay the <n>[Temple]</n> tax?”


text:
He replied, “Yes, <n>[He does]</n>.” And when Peter entered the house, Jesus spoke to him first, <n>[i.e., without waiting for Peter to tell Him what he had said to the tax collectors]</n>, saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do earthly kings collect custom duty and taxes? From their children or from strangers?”


text:
And when Peter said, “From strangers,” Jesus added, “Therefore, children are free <n>[from such taxation]</n>.


text:
But, so that we do not become a hindrance to these <n>[tax collectors]</n>, go to the lake and cast in your hook <n>[and line]</n>. Then take the first fish <n>[you catch]</n>, open its mouth and you will find a coin <n>[i.e., worth twice the amount of an individual’s Temple tax assessment]</n>. Take it and give it <n>[to the tax collectors]</n> for you and me.”


text:
At that very time His disciples came to Jesus, asking, “Who then is the most important person in the kingdom of heaven?”


text:
and said, “Truly I tell you, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven unless you turn <n>[your life around]</n> and become like little children <n>[i.e., having child-like humility]</n>.


text:
Therefore, the person who will humble himself, as this little child, is the most important person in the kingdom of heaven.


text:
And the person who welcomes one little child like this, in my name <n>[i.e., because he belongs to me]</n>, welcomes me <n>[also]</n>.


text:
But that person who causes one of these little ones <n>[i.e., humble followers of the Lord]</n> who believes in me to be led astray <n>[from God]</n>, he would have been better off to have had a huge millstone tied around his neck and been dumped into a deep ocean <n>[Note: This “millstone” was a heavy circular stone rolled over grain to crush it and was moved by an animal walking in a circle]</n>.


text:
“It will be too bad for the world because of occasions that cause people to fall away <n>[from God]</n>! For it is inevitable that such occasions come, but it is too bad for that person who is responsible for causing it to happen.


text:
If your hand or your foot becomes the occasion for you falling away <n>[from God]</n>, cut them off and throw them away. It would be better for you to enter <n>[never ending]</n> life disabled or crippled, rather than keeping both hands and both feet and being thrown into the never ending fire <n>[i.e., because they caused you to fall away from God]</n>.


text:
And if your eye becomes the occasion for you falling away <n>[from God]</n>, gouge it out and throw it away, for it would be better for you to enter <n>[never ending]</n> life with <n>[only]</n> one eye, rather than keeping both eyes and being thrown into a fiery hell <n>[i.e., because one of them caused you to fall away from God]</n>.


text:
Make sure you do not look down on any one of these little ones <n>[i.e., humble followers of Christ]</n>. For I tell you, their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.


text:
What do you think? If anyone had a hundred sheep, and one of them wandered away, would he not leave the ninety-nine <n>[safe ones]</n> and go to the mountains looking for the one that wandered away?


text:
Truly I tell you, if he happens to find it, he is happier over it than over the ninety-nine that had not wandered away.


text:
In the same way, it is not the will of your Father in heaven that <n>[a single]</n> one of these little ones <n>[i.e., humble followers of Christ]</n> should be lost.


text:
“And if your brother sins against you go and show him where he wronged you, <n>[but]</n> keep it between just the two of you. If he listens to you <n>[i.e., accepts your reasoning and repents]</n>, you have won your brother <n>[back]</n>.


text:
But if he does not listen <n>[to your reasoning]</n>, take one or two other people with you, so that two or three witnesses can verify every word <n>[that was said]</n>.


text:
And if he refuses to listen to them <n>[i.e., the witnesses]</n>, explain the <n>[whole]</n> matter to the church <n>[i.e., probably a specially called meeting of mature Christians to resolve the matter]</n>. And if he refuses to listen to the church also, <n>[i.e., to acknowledge his sin and repent of it]</n>, consider him like an <n>[unconverted]</n> Gentile or tax collector <n>[i.e., do not have fellowship with him]</n>.


text:
Truly I tell you, whatever <n>[truth]</n> you disciples require <n>[of people to believe and obey]</n> on earth will have <n>[already]</n> been required <n>[by God]</n> in heaven. And whatever <n>[truth]</n> you do not require <n>[of people to believe and obey]</n> on earth, will not have <n>[already]</n> been required <n>[by God]</n> in heaven.


text:
I tell you again, if two of you agree <n>[here]</n> on earth concerning anything you ask for <n>[i.e., in prayer]</n>, God in heaven will grant it to you.


text:
Then Peter came and said to Jesus, “Lord, how often must I forgive my brother when he sins against me? As many as seven times?”


text:
Jesus replied, “I tell you, not <n>[just]</n> up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven <n>[i.e., a large indefinite number of times]</n>.


text:
“Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is similar to a certain king who decided to settle his account with his servants.


text:
When he began figuring, one of his servants, who owed him a huge sum of money <n>[Note: The amount is variously estimated to be in the multiple millions of dollars in 2005]</n>, was brought to him.


text:
But since he did not have enough <n>[money]</n> to pay <n>[what he owed]</n>, his master ordered that he, his wife, his children and all his possessions be sold <n>[in order]</n> to pay <n>[his debt]</n>.


text:
The servant then fell to the ground <n>[before his master]</n> and humbly implored him, saying, ‘Master, <n>[please]</n> be patient with me and I will repay you everything <n>[I owe]</n>.’


text:
And the master of that servant felt deep pity <n>[for him]</n>, so released him <n>[from custody]</n> and canceled his debt.


text:
But that <n>[same]</n> servant went out and found one of his fellow-servants who owed him a small sum of money <n>[Note: The amount was about 100 twelve hour days of a farm laborer’s pay or about $10,800 in 2005]</n>. He grabbed him by the throat, saying, ‘Pay <n>[me]</n> what you owe.’


text:
His fellow-servant fell <n>[on the ground before him]</n> and begged him, saying, ‘<n>[Please]</n> be patient with me and I will repay you <n>[all I owe you]</n>.’


text:
But he would not do it. Instead, he took him and had him thrown into prison until he paid <n>[him]</n> all he owed.


text:
When his fellow-servants saw what he had done, they were very upset and went and told their master everything that had happened.


text:
Then his master called for him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I canceled all of your debt because you begged me to.


text:
His master then became furious and turned him over <n>[to the authorities]</n> to be punished until he paid all that he owed.


text:
In the same way my heavenly Father will also deal with you <n>[i.e., punish you]</n> unless every one of you forgives his brother from the heart.”


text:
And so when Jesus had finished speaking He left Galilee and came to the region of Judea, on the east side of the Jordan River.


text:
Some Pharisees came to Him, <n>[attempting]</n> to put Him to a test. They said, “Is it permissible by the Law of Moses for a man to divorce his wife for any reason <n>[he chooses]</n>?”


text:
And He answered them, “Have you not read <n>[Gen. 1:27; 5:2]</n> that when God created <n>[mankind as]</n> male and female,


text:
He said <n>[Gen. 2:24]</n>, ‘For this reason <n>[i.e., since He made one woman for one man]</n>, a man will leave <n>[the home of]</n> his father and mother and will cling to his wife, <n>[so that]</n> the two of them will <n>[then]</n> become one flesh <n>[i.e., united in such a close relationship as to constitute one body]</n>?’


text:
So, <n>[upon becoming husband and wife]</n> they no longer function <n>[entirely]</n> as two persons, but <n>[as]</n> one body. Therefore, those whom God <n>[so]</n> joins together <n>[in the marriage bond]</n>, no person must <n>[ever]</n> separate.”


text:
They replied, “Why then did Moses order <n>[a man]</n> to provide a legal divorce decree <n>[Deut. 24:1]</n>, and then divorce his wife?”


text:
Jesus said to them, “Moses permitted you to divorce your wives <n>[only]</n> because of the rebellious spirits you <n>[Jews]</n> had. But this was not how it was <n>[intended to be]</n> from the beginning <n>[i.e., when God created one woman for one man]</n>.


text:
And I tell you, whoever divorces his wife and marries another woman commits sexual unfaithfulness <n>[toward her]</n>, unless the reason for the divorce was sexual unfaithfulness <n>[on his wife’s part]</n>. And the person who marries a woman who has been divorced commits sexual sin with her <n>[i.e., because she is still rightfully married to her first husband]</n>.”


text:
His disciples <n>[then]</n> said to Jesus, “If this is the way it has to be between a man and his wife, it is not worth getting married.”


text:
But He replied, “Not all men can accept such an arrangement <n>[i.e., not marrying]</n>, but it is <n>[only]</n> for those who have the capacity for accepting it.


text:
For there are eunuchs <n>[i.e., men who do not have normal sexual activity]</n> who are born that way; then there are eunuchs who were made that way by undergoing a surgical operation; then there are <n>[also]</n> eunuchs who purposely chose to avoid normal sexual activity for the sake of <n>[ministering in]</n> the kingdom of heaven. Whoever can accept such an arrangement <n>[i.e., of not marrying]</n>, should do so.”


text:
Then some little children were brought to Jesus so he could pray and place His hands on them <n>[i.e., to bestow a blessing on them]</n>. But His disciples spoke harshly to the people <n>[for doing this]</n>.


text:
But Jesus said, “Allow these little children to come to me and stop trying to prevent them. For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such <n>[humble ones]</n> as these.” <n>[See 18:4]</n>.


text:
So, He placed His hands on them <n>[i.e., to bestow a blessing]</n> and <n>[then]</n> left that place.


text:
Then a rich, young man <n>[See verse 22]</n> came to Him and said, “Teacher, what good deed should I do in order to have never ending life?”


text:
Jesus answered him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is <n>[only]</n> One who is good <n>[i.e., God]</n>. But if you want to enter <n>[never ending]</n> life, <n>[then]</n> obey His commandments.”


text:
The young man asked Him, “Which <n>[ones]</n>?” Jesus answered, “You must not murder. You must not be sexually unfaithful to your mate. You must not steal. You must not give false testimony.


text:
Show honor to your father and mother. And you must love your neighbor the same as you love yourself.”


text:
The young man said to Him, “I have <n>[already]</n> been observing all of these commandments. What do I <n>[still]</n> lack?”


text:
Jesus replied, “If you want to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give <n>[the money]</n> to poor people; then become my follower and you will have treasure in heaven.”


text:
Jesus said to His disciples, “Truly I tell you, it is difficult for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven.


text:
And again I tell you, it is <n>[actually]</n> easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle, than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.”


text:
When the disciples heard this, they were utterly amazed, saying, “Who then can <n>[possibly]</n> be saved?”


text:
Jesus looked at them and said, “This would be impossible with men, but everything is possible with God.”


text:
Peter then answered Him, “Look, we have left everything <n>[i.e., homes, jobs, family, etc.]</n>, to follow you. What will we get for it?”


text:
Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, <n>[since]</n> you have become my followers, in the time of new beginnings <n>[i.e., the church age]</n>, when the Son of man sits on His glorious throne, you apostles will also sit on twelve thrones, judging <n>[i.e., through their writings]</n> the twelve tribes of Israel <n>[i.e., God’s people]</n>.


text:
And every person who has left his house, or brothers, or sisters, or father, or mother, or children or property, for my name’s sake <n>[i.e., to become a servant of the Lord]</n>, will receive <n>[back]</n> a hundred times as much <n>[in this life]</n> and will <n>[also]</n> inherit never ending life.


text:
But many will be last <n>[i.e., in importance and blessings]</n> who <n>[seem to]</n> be first, and those <n>[who seem to be]</n> first will <n>[end up]</n> being last.”


text:
“For the kingdom of heaven is similar to a farmer who went out early one morning to hire laborers for his vineyard.


text:
When he had agreed with the workers <n>[on wages]</n> for the usual farm laborer’s pay for a day’s work, he <n>[then]</n> sent them to work in his vineyard. <n>[Note: The coin mentioned here would amount to about $9.00, based on the average farm laborer’s hourly wage in 2005. <n>[National Agricultural Statistics Service, U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Feb. 2005]</n>. This coin also forms the basis for calculating all other monetary references in the New Testament]</n>.


text:
He went out about nine o’clock in the morning and saw other unemployed laborers standing <n>[around]</n> in the open shopping market.


text:
He said to them, ‘You men also go and work in my vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.’ So, they went to work.


text:
<n>[Then]</n> he went out again about noon and again at three o’clock in the afternoon and made the same offer.


text:
<n>[Finally]</n> he went out <n>[once more]</n> at about five o’clock in the afternoon and found <n>[still]</n> other men standing around. He said, ‘Why have you been standing around all day and not working?’


text:
They replied, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You men also may go to work in my vineyard.’


text:
And when evening came the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the workers <n>[in]</n> and pay them their wages, beginning with the last <n>[one hired, then]</n> to the first.’


text:
So, when those hired about five o’clock in the afternoon came in, each one received the usual pay for one full day’s work. <n>[See note on verse 2]</n>.


text:
Then when those who were hired first came <n>[to get paid]</n>, they expected to receive more money <n>[than those hired later]</n>, but each one received the usual pay for one full day’s work also.


text:
saying, ‘These men <n>[you hired]</n> last have worked only one hour and you gave them wages equal to ours when we carried the heaviest load of the day’s work and <n>[put up with]</n> the scorching heat <n>[all day long]</n>.’


text:
But he answered one of them, saying, ‘Friend, I have not done anything wrong to you. Did you not agree with me to accept the usual pay for one full day’s work?


text:
Take what belongs to you and go on your way. I want to give this last person <n>[hired]</n> the same wages I gave you.


text:
Is it against the law for me to do what I want with my own money? Or, is it that your eye is envious because I choose to be so generous?’


text:
So, the <n>[person who seems to be]</n> last will be first <n>[i.e., in importance and blessings]</n>, but the <n>[person who seems to be]</n> first will <n>[end up]</n> being last.”


text:
As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem He took the twelve apostles aside. As they traveled along He said to them,


text:
“Now look, we are going up to Jerusalem and <n>[while there]</n> the Son of man will be turned over to the leading priests and experts in the Law of Moses. They will condemn Him to death,


text:
and turn Him over to the <n>[unconverted]</n> Gentiles, who will mock, whip and crucify Him; then on the third day He will be raised up.”


text:
Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons <n>[i.e., James and John]</n> came to Jesus with her sons and, bowing down in reverence before Him, made a request of Him.


text:
He responded to her, “What would you like me to do for you?” She answered; “Appoint my two sons to sit at your right side and at your left in your <n>[coming]</n> kingdom.”


text:
But Jesus replied to her, “You <n>[really]</n> do not know what you are asking for. Are you able to drink the cup <n>[i.e., of suffering]</n> that I am about to drink?” They <n>[i.e., James, John and their mother. See Mark 10:35ff]</n> answered, “<n>[Yes]</n> we are able to.”


text:
He said to them, “Indeed you will drink my cup <n>[of suffering]</n>. But it is not my prerogative to appoint who sits at my right side and at my left, but rather these places are for those to whom it has been assigned by my Father.”


text:
Then Jesus called all the apostles to Him and said, “You are aware that rulers among the <n>[unconverted]</n> Gentiles lord it over their own people and their important men domineer over them <n>[as well]</n>.


text:
But it will not be this way among you, for whoever would like to become important among you will become your servant.


text:
Even so, the Son of man did not come to be served <n>[by others]</n> but to be the servant <n>[of others]</n>, and to sacrifice His life as a ransom price to purchase many people <n>[i.e., back from Satan]</n>.”


text:
As they <n>[i.e., the twelve apostles and Jesus]</n> were leaving Jericho <n>[Note: This was a town about eighteen miles northeast of Jerusalem]</n>, a huge crowd followed them.


text:
Just then, two blind men sitting along side of the road heard that Jesus was passing by that way. <n>[So]</n>, they shouted out, “Lord, take pity on us, son of David.”


text:
The crowd spoke harshly to them, telling them to be quiet, but they shouted all the more, “Lord, have pity on us, son of David.”


text:
Jesus felt deep pity for them, so He touched their eyes and immediately their sight was restored, and they became <n>[His]</n> followers.


text:
And when they <n>[i.e., Jesus and the twelve apostles]</n> approached Jerusalem and came close to Bethphage, near the Mount of Olives <n>[Note: This was about three-fourths of a mile east of Jerusalem]</n>, Jesus sent two disciples on ahead,


text:
saying to them, “Go into the village there and immediately you will find a donkey tied up with her colt. Untie them and bring them to me.


text:
If anyone says something to you, tell them, ‘The Lord needs these animals,’ and he will immediately send them.


text:
<n>[Zech. 9:9]</n>, ‘You should tell the daughter of Zion <n>[i.e., the people of Jerusalem]</n>, look, your King is coming to you. He is gentle and <n>[will be]</n> riding on a donkey, <n>[even]</n> on a colt, the offspring of the donkey.’”


text:
A large part of the crowd spread their clothing on the roadway; others cut branches from trees and spread them <n>[also]</n> on the roadway.


text:
And the crowds that walked ahead and followed behind Him shouted, “Hosanna to the son of David. <n>[Note: The Syriac word ‘Hosanna’ originally meant ‘save now’ but came to be used as an expression of welcome, praise, blessing or acclamation]</n>. May He, who comes in the name <n>[i.e., by the authority]</n> of the Lord, be blessed. Hosanna in the highest <n>[i.e., may this blessing reach to the highest heaven]</n>.”


text:
And when He had come to Jerusalem, the entire city was stirred up; they were asking, “Who is this man?”


text:
Then Jesus entered the Temple of God and drove out all those who bought and sold things there. He upset the tables of the cashiers <n>[i.e., those who exchanged foreign coins]</n> and the benches of those who sold pigeons <n>[for sacrifices]</n>.


text:
And He said to them, “It is written <n>[Isa. 56:7]</n>, ‘My house <n>[i.e., the Temple]</n> will be called a house for prayer’, but <n>[Jer. 7:11 says]</n>, ‘You have made it a hideout for thieves.’”


text:
But when the leading priests and the experts in the Law of Moses saw the wonderful things <n>[i.e., miracles]</n> He was performing and <n>[heard]</n> the children shouting in the Temple, “Hosanna to the son of David,” <n>[See note at verse 9]</n>, they were filled with anger <n>[i.e., over the acclaim being given to Jesus]</n>.


text:
They said to Jesus, “Do you hear what these <n>[children]</n> are saying <n>[about you]</n>?” Jesus answered them, “Yes, <n>[I do]</n>. Have you not read <n>[in Psa. 8:2]</n> ‘You have ordained that praise would come from the mouths of infants and small children?’”


text:
He then left them and went out of the city <n>[of Jerusalem]</n> to Bethany <n>[Note: This was a small village near Bethphage]</n> and stayed there <n>[i.e., probably at the home of Mary, Martha and Lazarus. See John 11:1]</n>.


text:
Upon seeing a fig tree along side of the road, He approached it <n>[i.e., expecting to find fruit on it]</n>, but found nothing but leaves. He said to the tree, “There will not be fruit on you ever again.” Immediately the fig tree withered up.


text:
Jesus answered, “Truly I tell you, if you have faith, without doubting, you will not only <n>[be able to]</n> do what was done to this fig tree, but even if you tell this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and thrown into the ocean,’ it will happen.


text:
When He had come into the Temple, the leading priests and elders of the <n>[Jewish]</n> people came to Him while He was teaching, and said, “By what authority are you doing these things <n>[i.e., miracles and teaching]</n>? And who gave you this authority?”


text:
Jesus answered them; “Let me also ask you a question. If you answer it, then I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things.


text:
Where did the immersion of John come from? From heaven or from men?” And they discussed this among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘from heaven,’ He will say to us, ‘Why then did you not believe his message?’


text:
But if we say, ‘from men,’ we are afraid the crowd will oppose us because they all consider John to be a prophet.”


text:
So, they answered Jesus, “We do not know <n>[where John got the authority for his immersion]</n>.” Jesus then replied to them, “<n>[Then]</n> neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things <n>[i.e., miracles and teaching]</n>.


text:
But what do you think <n>[about this]</n>? A man had two sons; He went to the first one and said, ‘Son, go to work in my vineyard today.’


text:
He went to the second son and said the same thing. That son replied, ‘<n>[Yes]</n>, sir, I will,’ <n>[but]</n> then did not go.


text:
Which of these two sons did what his father wanted?” They answered, “The first one.” Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, tax collectors and prostitutes <n>[will]</n> enter the kingdom of God ahead of you.


text:
For John came to show you the way to be right with God, but you would not believe his message. Yet the tax collectors and prostitutes believed it, and when you saw this, even then you did not change your minds so as to believe his message.


text:
“Listen to another parable <n>[i.e., a brief story used to illustrate His teaching]</n>: There was the owner of a farm who planted a vineyard and built a fence around it. He constructed a grape squeezing device, built a <n>[lookout]</n> tower <n>[near it]</n>, leased it to tenant farmers and then went to another country.


text:
And when the season for harvesting the grapes approached, the owner of the farm sent his slaves to the tenant farmers to arrange for delivery of his crop.


text:
But the tenant farmers took the farm owner’s slaves and beat one, killed another and stoned another.


text:
Then later on he sent his own son to the tenant farmers, saying, ‘<n>[Surely]</n> they will treat my son with respect.’


text:
But when the tenant farmers saw the son, they said to one another, ‘This is the heir <n>[to the vineyard]</n>. Come on; let us kill him so we can take over his inheritance.’


text:
When the owner of the vineyard returns, what <n>[do you think]</n> he will do to those tenant farmers?


text:
They answered him; “He will bring terrible destruction on those evil men and will lease the vineyard to other tenant farmers who will deliver the crops to him each harvest time.”


text:
Jesus <n>[then]</n> said to the leading priests and elders of the Jewish people, “Did you not ever read in the Scriptures <n>[Psa. 118:22-23]</n>, ‘The building block rejected by the builders is the same one that was made the principal stone by which the entire building was aligned. This was planned by the Lord and is a marvelous thing to us’?


text:
Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken from you <n>[Jews]</n> and will be given to a nation <n>[i.e., the Gentiles]</n> that will produce the fruit of the kingdom.


text:
And the person who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces, but whoever it falls on will be scattered like dust.”


text:
And when the leading priests and Pharisees heard Jesus’ parables, they realized He was speaking about them.


text:
When they attempted to arrest Him, <n>[they hesitated because]</n> they feared <n>[what]</n> the crowds <n>[might do]</n>, since they considered Jesus a prophet.


text:
He sent his servants out to call those who had been invited to the wedding reception, but they refused to come.


text:
Again he sent out other servants saying, ‘Tell those who were invited, look, I have already prepared the dinner; my cattle and <n>[other]</n> well-fattened animals have been butchered and everything is ready. <n>[Now]</n> come to the wedding reception dinner.’


text:
Then he told his servants, ‘The wedding is ready, but those who were invited to it <n>[proved they]</n> were not worthy <n>[to attend]</n>.


text:
Now go to the main crossroads of the highways and invite everyone you find there to the wedding reception.’


text:
So, his servants went out to the highways and gathered in all those who could be found, both bad and good, so that the wedding <n>[reception]</n> was full of guests.


text:
But when the king came in <n>[to the dining hall]</n> to meet the guests, he noticed a man who was not wearing a <n>[proper]</n> wedding outfit.


text:
He said to the man, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without wearing the proper wedding outfit?’ And he could not say a word.


text:
Then the king said to his servants, ‘Tie him up, hand and foot, and throw him into <n>[a place of]</n> outer darkness where there will be crying and excruciating pain.’


text:
For many people are called <n>[by God]</n> but <n>[only those]</n> few <n>[who respond]</n> are chosen <n>[by Him]</n>.”


text:
So, they sent their disciples, <n>[along]</n> with the Herodians to Him <n>[Note: These were members of a political party favoring King Herod]</n>, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are sincere, and that you teach the truth about God’s way. You do not care for <n>[i.e., do not fear or give in to]</n> anyone or allow the position of any person to influence you.


text:
But Jesus perceived their wicked intention and said, “Why are you putting me to a test, you hypocrites?


text:
Show me the coin used for paying taxes.” And they brought to Him a coin <n>[Note: This coin was equivalent to one twelve hour day’s wages of a farm laborer, or about $108 in 2005]</n>.


text:
They answered Him, “Caesar’s.” Then He replied, “Pay to Caesar whatever belongs to Caesar and pay to God whatever belongs to God.”


text:
Some Sadducees <n>[Note: These were the Jewish party that denied there was a resurrection]</n> came to Jesus that day and asked Him,


text:
“Teacher, Moses said <n>[in Deut. 25:5]</n> that when a man dies without having had any children, his brother must marry his widow and father children by her, who would <n>[then]</n> be considered his <n>[dead]</n> brother’s.


text:
Now among our people there were <n>[these]</n> seven brothers; the first one married and <n>[later]</n> died without having any children, leaving his widow to <n>[marry]</n> his brother.


text:
The same thing happened to the second and the third and <n>[on through to]</n> the seventh <n>[brother]</n>.


text:
But Jesus answered them, “You are mistaken <n>[in your reasoning]</n>, not knowing <n>[what]</n> the Scriptures <n>[teach]</n> or <n>[how much]</n> power God has.


text:
For in the resurrected state men do not get married, nor are women given away in marriage, but <n>[all]</n> are like angels in heaven.


text:
But concerning the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what God spoke to you, saying, <n>[Ex. 3:6]</n>


text:
‘I am Abraham’s God, and Isaac’s God and Jacob’s God.’ <n>[So]</n>, He is not God to those who are <n>[physically]</n> dead, but <n>[He is]</n> God to those who are <n>[still]</n> alive.”


text:
But when the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced <n>[the objections of]</n> the Sadducees, they gathered together <n>[i.e., to continue plotting against Jesus. See verse 15]</n>.


text:
One of them, a teacher of the Law of Moses, asked Him a question <n>[in an attempt]</n> to test Him.


text:
Jesus replied, <n>[Deut. 6:5]</n> “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind.’


text:
A second one, similar to it is <n>[Lev. 19:18]</n>, ‘You must love your neighbor the same way that you love yourself.’


text:
“What do you think about the Christ <n>[i.e., God’s specially chosen one]</n>? Whose son do you think He is?” They replied, “<n>[He is]</n> the son of David.”


text:
He said to them, “How is it <n>[then]</n> that David, by <n>[inspiration of]</n> the Holy Spirit, calls Him Lord? saying,


text:
<n>[Psa. 110:1]</n> ‘The Lord <n>[i.e., God]</n> said to my <n>[i.e., David’s]</n> Lord <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n>, sit at my right side until I put your enemies <n>[in full subjection]</n> beneath your feet.’


text:
No one was able to answer <n>[Jesus’ reasoning]</n> with <n>[so much as]</n> a word, and no one dared to ask Him any more questions from that day onward.


text:
Therefore, observe and practice everything they urge upon you, but do not follow their example <n>[of living]</n> because they say <n>[the right things]</n> but do not do them.


text:
Yes, they require people to bear heavy and difficult responsibilities, and place them on people’s shoulders <n>[to carry out]</n>, but they themselves will not lift a finger to do them.


text:
But they do all their deeds just to be seen by people. They wear elaborate Scripture texts displayed on their clothing and enlarge <n>[conspicuously]</n> the fringes of their robes.


text:
They love to recline at the head place at dinner tables <n>[Note: This referred to the practice of lying down on their left side on a couch next to the dinner table, and leaning on their left elbow, while eating with their right hand]</n>, and to occupy the principal seats in the synagogues.


text:
They love the <n>[special]</n> greetings they receive at the open shopping markets and to be addressed as ‘Rabbi’ <n>[Note: This word signified ‘great’ or ‘master’]</n>.


text:
But you should not assume the title ‘Rabbi,’ for <n>[only]</n> one is your teacher <n>[i.e., Jesus Himself]</n> and all of you are <n>[simply]</n> brothers.


text:
And do not call any man on earth ‘father,’ <n>[i.e., in a religious sense]</n>, for the <n>[only]</n> one who is your Father is in heaven.


text:
Neither assume the title ‘Master’ <n>[i.e., teacher]</n>, for <n>[only]</n> one is your Master, the Christ <n>[i.e., God’s specially chosen one]</n>.


text:
And whoever exalts himself <n>[as important]</n> will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted <n>[as important]</n>.


text:
“But it is too bad for you hypocritical experts in the Law of Moses and <n>[you]</n> Pharisees! <n>[It is]</n> because you withhold the kingdom of heaven from people, for you do not enter it yourselves, nor <n>[do you]</n> allow those who are trying to enter it to get in.


text:
“It is too bad for you hypocritical experts in the Law of Moses and <n>[you]</n> Pharisees! For you travel over land and sea <n>[in hope of]</n> making one person a proselyte <n>[i.e., a convert to the Jewish religion]</n>. And when you do convert one, you make him twice as deserving of hell as yourselves.


text:
“It is too bad for you blind leaders who say that whoever takes an oath ‘by the Temple,’ it does not <n>[really]</n> mean anything, but whoever takes an oath ‘by the gold of the Temple,’ he is obligated to <n>[fulfill]</n> the oath.


text:
And <n>[you say]</n>, whoever takes an oath ‘by the Altar,’ it does not <n>[really]</n> mean anything, but whoever takes an oath ‘by the gift on the Altar,’ he is obligated to <n>[fulfill]</n> the oath.


text:
The person, therefore, who takes an oath ‘by the Altar,’ <n>[not only]</n> swears by it, but <n>[also]</n> by everything on it.


text:
And the person who takes an oath ‘by the Temple,’ <n>[not only]</n> swears by it, but <n>[also]</n> by Him <n>[i.e., God]</n> who lives there.


text:
And the person who takes an oath ‘by heaven,’ swears ‘by the throne of God,’ and <n>[also]</n> by Him <n>[i.e., God]</n> who sits on it.


text:
'It is too bad for you hypocritical experts in the Law of Moses and <n>[you]</n> Pharisees! For you give a tenth of your mint, dill and cumin <n>[i.e., small garden herbs used for seasoning or fragrance]</n>, and <n>[yet]</n> neglect the heavier responsibilities required by the law, <n>[such as]</n> justice, mercy and faith. You should have done these <n>[“lighter”]</n> things and not neglected to do the other <n>[“heavier”]</n> things <n>[as well]</n>.


text:
You blind leaders, who strain out a <n>[tiny]</n> gnat <n>[i.e., from your drinking water]</n> and <n>[yet]</n> swallow a <n>[whole]</n> camel.


text:
'It is too bad for you hypocritical experts in the Law of Moses and <n>[you]</n> Pharisees! For you <n>[carefully]</n> wash the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they <n>[i.e., such evil people]</n> are full of greed and uncontrolled desire.


text:
You blind Pharisees! First wash the inside of the cup and dish, so <n>[then]</n> the outside will be clean also.


text:
'It is too bad for you hypocritical experts in the Law of Moses and <n>[you]</n> Pharisees! For you are like white­washed tombs, used for burial <n>[sites]</n>, which appear beautiful on the outside, but on the inside are full of the bones and decaying flesh of dead people.


text:
Even so, you also appear on the outside to be doing right in front of people, but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and sin.


text:
'It is too bad for you hypocritical experts in the Law of Moses and <n>[you]</n> Pharisees! For you construct burial sites for the prophets and decorate the tombs of people who were righteous.


text:
And you say, ‘If <n>[only]</n> we had lived in the days of our forefathers, we <n>[certainly]</n> would not have participated with them in <n>[shedding]</n> the blood of the prophets.’


text:
<n>[But by saying this]</n> you are witnesses <n>[against]</n> yourselves, that you are the sons of those who murdered the prophets <n>[i.e., indicating your approval of their actions]</n>.


text:
You snakes! You children of snakes! How do you expect to escape being judged <n>[and condemned]</n> in hell?


text:
Therefore look, I am sending to you prophets, wise men and scholarly teachers. You will murder and crucify some of them; you will whip some of them in your synagogues and pursue them from town to town.


text:
<n>[This will be done]</n> so that on you may fall the guilt for shedding on the ground the blood of all those innocent people, from the blood of righteous Abel to that of Barachiah’s son Zachariah, whom you murdered between the Sanctuary and the Altar <n>[i.e., in the Temple area]</n>.


text:
“O, Jerusalem, Jerusalem, <n>[you people]</n> who murdered the prophets and stoned those who were sent to you! How often I have wanted to gather you people together, even as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!


text:
For I tell you, you will not see me from now on until <n>[the time when]</n> you will be saying, ‘Praise the one who is coming in the name of the Lord!’”


text:
As Jesus left the Temple, His disciples approached Him as He was walking along the road and pointed out the Temple buildings.


text:
He responded to them by saying, “Do you see all these structures? Truly I tell you, there will not be one stone left on another here that will not be thrown down.”


text:
And as He was sitting on the Mount of Olives, His disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things <n>[you just spoke of]</n> happen? And what will be the sign that indicates your presence and the end of the <n>[present]</n> age?”


text:
For many <n>[false teachers]</n> will come, claiming to be me, and saying, ‘I am the Christ <n>[i.e., God’s specially chosen one]</n>’ and they will lead many people away <n>[from the truth]</n>.


text:
And you will hear of wars <n>[going on]</n> and rumors of <n>[other]</n> wars <n>[pending]</n>. Do not worry, for such things must necessarily happen. But the end has not yet come. <n>[Note: By “the end” here Jesus probably alludes to the downfall of Jerusalem, in AD 70, with its attending destruction of the Temple buildings]</n>.


text:
For nations will wage war against one another, and kingdoms will attack one another. And famines and earthquakes will occur at various places <n>[in the world]</n>.


text:
At that time people will turn you over <n>[to the authorities]</n> for persecution and will <n>[even]</n> kill you. And people from all countries will hate you for being loyal to me.


text:
And then many people will fall away <n>[from God]</n> and they will turn one another over <n>[i.e., to the authorities for punishment]</n>, and they will hate one another.


text:
But the person who holds out <n>[i.e., remains faithful to God]</n> until the end <n>[i.e., of this time of severe persecution]</n> will be saved <n>[from destruction]</n>.


text:
And this good news concerning the kingdom <n>[of heaven]</n> will be preached to people throughout the world as a testimony <n>[of God’s message]</n> to all nations. Then, <n>[after that]</n> the end <n>[i.e., of Jerusalem, the Temple, etc.]</n> will come.


text:
“Therefore, when you see that disgusting thing which causes total destruction <n>[i.e., the Roman armies. See Luke 21:20]</n>, which Daniel the prophet spoke about <n>[Dan. 9:27; 11:31; 12:11]</n>, standing in the sacred place <n>[i.e., Jerusalem and especially the Temple area]</n>, (let the reader understand <n>[what is meant by this]</n>),


text:
<n>[Also]</n>, the person who is on a housetop <n>[Note: This was a flat area where people retired for rest, prayer, etc., with its stairway on the outside]</n>, is not to take any of the belongings from his house as he comes down <n>[to flee]</n>.


text:
The person who is in a field <n>[i.e., doing farm work]</n> is not <n>[even]</n> to return <n>[to his house]</n> to get his coat.


text:
And pray that it will not be in the winter or on a Sabbath day when you will have to flee <n>[from the city]</n>. <n>[Note: Jewish Sabbath day restrictions on travel (only three-fifths of a mile) and city gate closures would make leaving the city nearly impossible]</n>.


text:
There will be great trouble <n>[during these times]</n>, such as had never been from the beginning of time up to the present, or ever will be <n>[in the days to come]</n>.


text:
And if those days had not been as short as they were no one would have been saved <n>[i.e., from the devastating destruction]</n>. But for the sake of the elect <n>[i.e., God’s people]</n>, those days will be short.


text:
For false christs and false prophets will appear and they will perform great <n>[miraculous]</n> signs and <n>[supernatural]</n> wonders in order to lead astray even the elect <n>[i.e., God’s people]</n>, if possible.


text:
Therefore, if people say to you, ‘Look, he <n>[i.e., Christ. See verse 23]</n> is in the desert,’ do not go out there. <n>[Or if they say]</n>, ‘Look, he is in an inside room,’ do not believe him.


text:
For just like lightning that appears in the east can be seen even in the west, so it will be with the presence <n>[i.e., coming]</n> of the Son of man.


text:
Wherever there is a dead body, <n>[you can expect to see]</n> vultures gathered there. <n>[Note: This may mean that such a significant event as the coming of Christ would surely not go unnoticed]</n>.


text:
“But immediately after the terrible trouble of those days, <n>[i.e., the next major event on God’s calendar]</n>, the sun will become dark, and <n>[therefore]</n> the moon will not <n>[be able to]</n> shed its <n>[reflected]</n> light. The stars will fall from the sky and the forces of the heavens will be shaken <n>[Note: From the description of these same events in Luke 21:25-26, it is possible that this is figurative language for great calamities happening on the earth]</n>.


text:
Then the sign <n>[i.e., signifying the coming]</n> of the Son of man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will be stricken with grief as they see the Son of man coming in the clouds of the sky <n>[See Acts 1:9-11]</n> with power and great splendor.


text:
And He will send out His angels <n>[i.e., as messengers]</n> with the sound of a great trumpet <n>[See I Thess. 4:16]</n> to gather His elect <n>[i.e., God’s people]</n> from all directions, <n>[even]</n> from throughout the whole world. <n>[Note: See Mark 13:27, which suggests this thought by its use of ‘earth’ and ‘sky’]</n>


text:
“Now learn this parable <n>[i.e., a brief analogy to illustrate a lesson]</n> from the fig tree: When its tender sprouts appear and its leaves begin to develop, you know that summer is near.


text:
In the same way also, when you see all these things happening, you <n>[should]</n> know that He <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n> is as near as your <n>[front]</n> door.


text:
Truly I tell you, the people of this generation will not <n>[all]</n> die off before all these things <n>[i.e., mentioned above]</n> happen.


text:
<n>[Although]</n> the sky and the earth will pass away <n>[See II Pet. 3:10]</n>, my words will not pass away <n>[i.e., they will certainly come true]</n>.


text:
“But no one knows when that day or hour will come. Not even the angels in heaven or the Son <n>[of God]</n> know <n>[when it will happen]</n>, but only the Father <n>[does]</n>.


text:
As it was during the days of Noah, so it will be when the presence of the Son of man <n>[arrives]</n>.


text:
For in those days before the Flood, people were eating and drinking <n>[i.e., partaking of ordinary meals]</n>, men were getting married and women were being given away in marriage <n>[right up]</n> until the day Noah entered the ship.


text:
And the people <n>[i.e., of Noah’s day]</n> did not know <n>[when it would happen]</n> until the Flood came and swept them all away. It will be the same way when the presence of the Son of man <n>[arrives]</n>.


text:
At that time there will be two men <n>[working]</n> in a field; one will be taken <n>[i.e., to be with the Lord. See I Thess. 4:17]</n>, while the other one will be left <n>[i.e., to be punished by the Lord. See II Thess. 1:7-9]</n>.


text:
Two women will be grinding grain at a millstone <n>[Note: This was a hand-operated device where two persons sat across from each other and rotated a circular stone over kernels of grain]</n>; one will be taken, while the other one will be left.


text:
But you should know this: if the owner of a house had known when a thief was coming, he would have been watching so as not to allow his house to be broken into.


text:
Therefore, you also should be ready, for the Son of man will come at a time when you least expect Him.


text:
“Who then, is the trustworthy and sensible slave, to whom his master has assigned the management of his household to provide timely meals for its members?


text:
But if that slave, with evil intent, should think to himself, ‘My master will not be back very soon,’


text:
and then becomes physically abusive to his fellow-slaves, and eats and drinks <n>[at parties]</n> with drunkards,


text:
And <n>[that master]</n> will whip him to shreds and will turn him over to suffer the same fate as hypocrites do. That fate will involve crying and excruciating pain.”


text:
“Then the kingdom of heaven will be similar to ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went out to meet the <n>[bride and]</n> groom. <n>[Note: The picture here is that of a newly married couple returning from a festive reception to the groom’s home where they continued celebrating and were welcomed by a late evening wedding party]</n>


text:
Now when the <n>[bride and]</n> groom were late <n>[in arriving]</n>, the bridesmaids all got drowsy and fell asleep.


text:
Then at midnight someone shouted, ‘Look, the <n>[bride and]</n> groom are here. Come on, let us go out and meet them.’


text:
Then all the bridesmaids woke up and trimmed their lamps <n>[i.e., removed the burnt wicks and replenished their lamps with oil]</n>.


text:
The foolish ones said to the sensible ones, ‘Give us some of your oil, because our lamps are going out.’


text:
But the sensible ones answered, ‘There might not be enough for us and you, <n>[so]</n> instead, you should go to the store and buy some for yourselves.’


text:
And while they were away <n>[trying]</n> to buy olive oil, the <n>[bride and]</n> groom arrived, and those who were ready <n>[to welcome them]</n> entered the <n>[house where the]</n> wedding reception <n>[was being held]</n> and the door was shut.


text:
After that, the other bridesmaids also came asking, ‘Sir, Sir, <n>[please]</n> open the door for us!’


text:
Therefore, you should be watchful, for you do not know the day or hour <n>[i.e., when the Son of man will return]</n>.


text:
“For the kingdom of heaven is similar to a man who planned to go on a trip to a distant country, so called his servants and entrusted to each of them a large sum of money <n>[Note: The narrative that follows suggests that the man was turning over some of his assets to financial managers to invest for him]</n>.


text:
He gave one servant five talents <n>[Note: This ‘talent’ was a large sum of money in the form of a certain weight of silver. It was the equivalent of sixty years of a farm laborer’s wages, or about $1,400,000 in 2005 income]</n>. He gave two talents to another servant and one talent to another. He gave to each one an amount in keeping with his ability <n>[to invest it wisely]</n>, and then left on his trip.


text:
The one with the five talents soon invested the money in business transactions which netted him five more.


text:
But the one who was given one talent went and dug a hole in the ground and buried his master’s money.


text:
Now after a long time the master of these servants returned <n>[from his trip]</n> and proceeded to go over his accounts with each of them.


text:
The one who had been given five talents came bringing another five and reported, ‘Master, you entrusted me with five talents. Look, I have earned five more with them.’


text:
His master replied, ‘Well done, you are a good and trustworthy servant. You have been trustworthy over a <n>[relatively]</n> few things, so I will place you over many things. Come and share in your master’s joy.’


text:
And the one who was given two talents came and reported, ‘Master, you entrusted me with two talents. Look, I have earned two more with them.’


text:
His master said to him, ‘Well done, you are a good and trustworthy servant. You have been trustworthy over a <n>[relatively]</n> few things, <n>[so]</n> I will place you over many things. Come and share in your master’s joy.’


text:
Then the one who was given <n>[only]</n> one talent came and reported, ‘Master, I knew you were a difficult man who reaped where you had not sown, and gathered a harvest where you had not scattered seed,


text:
and I was afraid, so I went away and hid your talent in the ground. Look, you <n>[can]</n> have your own talent <n>[back]</n>.’


text:
But his master said to him, ‘You wicked, lazy servant. <n>[Since]</n> you knew that I reaped where I had not sown and gathered where I had not scattered seed,


text:
you should have therefore deposited my money in the bank <n>[so]</n> when I returned, <n>[at least]</n> I would have received my own money back, with interest.


text:
For to every person who has <n>[something]</n>, more will be given, so he will have plenty. But from the person who has <n>[virtually]</n> nothing, even that <n>[little bit]</n> he has will be taken away <n>[from him]</n>.


text:
Throw out that worthless servant into the <n>[place of]</n> outer darkness, where there will be crying and excruciating pain.


text:
“But when the Son of man comes <n>[back]</n> in <n>[all]</n> His splendor, accompanied by all the angels, then He will sit on His throne of splendor.


text:
And people from all the nations will be assembled in front of Him and He will separate them from one another, like a shepherd separating his sheep from the goats.


text:
Then the King will say to those at His right side, ‘You who are blessed by my Father, come and receive the kingdom which has been prepared for you since the creation of the world,


text:
for <n>[when]</n> I was hungry, you fed me; <n>[when]</n> I was thirsty, you gave me <n>[something]</n> to drink; <n>[when]</n> I came <n>[to you as]</n> a stranger, you gave me a place to stay;


text:
when I was without adequate clothing, you gave me something to wear; <n>[when]</n> I was sick, you came to visit me; <n>[when]</n> I was in prison, you came to see me.’


text:
Then those who had done what was right <n>[i.e., the ones at His right side]</n> replied, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry, and feed you? Or thirsty, and give you <n>[something]</n> to drink?


text:
And when <n>[did you come as]</n> a stranger, and we gave you a place to stay? Or <n>[when were you]</n> without adequate clothing, and we gave you something to wear?


text:
And the King will answer them and say, ‘Truly I tell you, since you did all this for one of my least <n>[significant]</n> brothers, you did it for me.’


text:
Then He <n>[i.e., the King]</n> will say to those at His left side, ‘Go away from me, you who are cursed <n>[by God]</n>, into the never ending fire which is prepared for the devil and his angels.


text:
For <n>[when]</n> I was hungry, you did not feed me; <n>[when]</n> I was thirsty, you did not give me anything to drink;


text:
<n>[when]</n> I came <n>[to you as]</n> a stranger, you did not give me a place to stay; <n>[when I]</n> did not have adequate clothing, you did not give me anything to wear; when I was sick, or in prison, you did not visit me.’


text:
They will reply, ‘Lord, when did we <n>[ever]</n> see you hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or inadequately dressed, or sick, or in prison, and not provide for your needs?’


text:
Then the Lord will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, since you did not do it for one of these least <n>[significant brothers of mine]</n>, you did not do it for me.’


text:
And these <n>[i.e., the ones at His left side]</n> will go away to never ending punishment, but those who did what was right will go to never ending life.”


text:
“You know that the Passover Festival will be celebrated in two more days <n>[Note: This was the annual Jewish festival commemorating Israel’s deliverance from Egyptian bondage under Moses’ leadership]</n>, and the Son of man will be turned over to be crucified.”


text:
Then the leading priests and elders of the <n>[Jewish]</n> people were gathered in the courtroom of the head priest, named Caiaphas.


text:
But they reasoned, “We will not do it during the Festival because it might start a riot among the people.”


text:
Now when Jesus was at Bethany <n>[Note: This was a small village less than two miles east of Jerusalem]</n>, in the house of Simon, the man <n>[who probably had been healed]</n> of an infectious skin disease,


text:
a woman with an alabaster <n>[i.e., stone]</n> jar of very expensive perfume came to Him and poured it on His head as He reclined at the dinner table. <n>[Note: See Matt. 23:6]</n>


text:
But Jesus was aware <n>[of what they were up to]</n>, so said, “Why are you bothering this woman? For she has done a kind deed to me.


text:
Truly I tell you, wherever this Gospel <n>[message]</n> is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done <n>[for me]</n> will <n>[also]</n> be told about, as a memorial of her <n>[kindness to me]</n>.”


text:
and said, “What would you give me if I turned Jesus over to you?” And they weighed out thirty silver coins <n>[Note: This amount was equivalent to about five months of a farm laborer’s wages, or approximately $13,500 in 2005]</n>, and promised <n>[See Mark 14:11]</n> to give him that much money.


text:
So, from then on Judas looked for a <n>[good]</n> opportunity to turn Jesus over <n>[to the Jewish leaders]</n>.


text:
Now on the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread <n>[i.e., the first day of Passover week]</n>, Jesus’ disciples came to Him, saying, “Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover meal?”


text:
He answered, “Go into the city <n>[i.e., Jerusalem]</n> to a certain man and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, My time is near <n>[i.e., to be turned over to the Jewish leaders]</n>; I plan to observe the Passover Festival at your house with my disciples.’”


text:
And the disciples did <n>[just]</n> as Jesus had asked them, and they made preparations for the Passover meal.


text:
As they were eating, He said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will turn me over <n>[to the Jewish leaders]</n>.”


text:
He answered, “The one who dipped his hand with me into the <n>[sauce]</n> bowl is the one who will turn me over <n>[to the Jewish leaders]</n>.


text:
The Son of man is going <n>[to die]</n>, but it is too bad for that person through whom the Son of man is turned over <n>[to the Jewish leaders]</n>! It would be better for that man if he had not been born.”


text:
Then Judas, the one who betrayed Him asked, “Am I the one, Rabbi?” Jesus answered Him, “You have said so.”


text:
And as they were eating, Jesus took a <n>[small]</n> loaf of bread, asked God’s blessing on it, then broke it and gave pieces to His disciples and said, “Take some and eat it; this is <n>[i.e., represents]</n> my <n>[physical]</n> body.”


text:
And He took a cup <n>[i.e., probably wine made from fresh or possibly preserved grape juice]</n>, gave thanks to God, then passed it to them, saying, “All of you, drink from it;


text:
for this is <n>[i.e., represents]</n> my blood of the Agreement <n>[i.e., between God and mankind]</n>, which is <n>[to be]</n> poured out for many people in order for <n>[their]</n> sins to be forgiven.


text:
But I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine <n>[i.e., grape juice]</n> from now on until that day when I will drink it again with you <n>[i.e., figuratively]</n> in my Father’s kingdom.”


text:
And after they had sung a hymn, they went up to the Mount of Olives. <n>[Note: This was a small hill just east of Jerusalem]</n>


text:
Then Jesus said <n>[to His disciples]</n>, “All of you will have doubts about me tonight, for it is written <n>[Zech. 13:7]</n>, ‘I will strike down the shepherd and the sheep of the flock will be scattered everywhere.’


text:
Jesus said to him, “Truly I tell you, this <n>[very]</n> night, before the rooster crows, you will deny <n>[knowing]</n> me three times.”


text:
Peter replied to Him, “Even if I have to die with you, still I will not deny <n>[knowing]</n> you.” And all <n>[the rest of]</n> the disciples said the same thing.


text:
Then Jesus came with His disciples to a place called Gethsemene. <n>[Note: This was an olive orchard on a hillside just east of Jerusalem]</n>. He said to them, “You sit here while I go over there and pray.”


text:
He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee <n>[i.e., James and John]</n> with Him, and <n>[soon]</n> began to be grieved and very distressed.


text:
Then He said to them, “My soul is extremely grieved, even to <n>[the point where I could]</n> die. Stay here and be alert with me <n>[i.e., in prayer]</n>.”


text:
And He went on ahead a short distance and fell face-down and prayed, “My Father, allow this cup <n>[i.e., of suffering]</n> to pass away from me if it is <n>[at all]</n> possible; nevertheless, let it not be what I want, but what You want <n>[for me]</n>.”


text:
And <n>[when]</n> He came <n>[back]</n> to where His disciples were and found them asleep, He said to Peter, “What <n>[is this]</n>, could you not remain alert with me <n>[in prayer]</n> for one hour?


text:
Be alert and pray, so that you do not give in to temptation; the spirit <n>[of a person]</n> is truly willing <n>[i.e., to do a certain thing]</n>, but his physical nature is <n>[often too]</n> weak <n>[to carry it out]</n>.”


text:
He <n>[then]</n> went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if this <n>[cup of suffering]</n> cannot pass away unless I drink it <n>[i.e., experience the suffering]</n>, <n>[then]</n> let what You want be done.”


text:
And He came <n>[back]</n> again and found them asleep, because they had not been able to keep their eyes open.


text:
Then He came to His disciples and said to them, “Go ahead and sleep now, and get your rest. See, the time is near and the Son of man is <n>[about to be]</n> turned over into the hands of sinners.


text:
Get up, let us be going. Look, the one who will turn me over <n>[to the Jewish leaders]</n> is nearby.”


text:
And while He was still speaking, Judas, one of the twelve apostles, came with a large crowd who were carrying swords and clubs. They had come from the leading priests and elders of the <n>[Jewish]</n> people.


text:
Now the one who betrayed Him had given them a signal, saying, “Whoever I give a kiss <n>[of greeting to]</n>, he is the one, take hold of him.”


text:
So, immediately he went to Jesus and said, “Greetings, Rabbi,” and <n>[then]</n> kissed Him <n>[enthusiastically]</n>.


text:
And Jesus said to him, “<n>[My]</n> friend, <n>[go ahead]</n>, do what you came to do.” Then the Jewish officers came and arrested Jesus and began taking Him away.


text:
Just then, one of those who were with Jesus <n>[i.e., Peter. See John 18:10]</n>, reached out with his sword and struck the head priest’s servant <n>[with it]</n>, shearing off his ear.


text:
Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back in your belt again, for all those who use the sword will die by the sword.


text:
Or, do you think that I cannot appeal to my Father and He will immediately send me more than twelve legions of angels <n>[i.e., Jesus could have called about 72,000 angels to minister to Him. See Matt. 4:11]</n>?


text:
How <n>[else]</n> then should the Scriptures be fulfilled that this must happen <n>[than what is taking place]</n>?”


text:
<n>[Then]</n> Jesus said to the crowds at that very time, “Have you come out to arrest me with swords and clubs as <n>[you would apprehend]</n> a thief? I sat everyday teaching in the Temple, and you did not <n>[come to]</n> take me.


text:
But all this has happened so that the Scriptures of the prophets would be fulfilled.” Then all of His disciples left Him and ran away.


text:
And those who had arrested Jesus led Him away to the house of Caiaphas, the head priest, where the experts in the Law of Moses and the <n>[Jewish]</n> elders were gathered.


text:
But Peter followed Him from a distance <n>[as they were going]</n> to the courtyard of the head priest. He went inside <n>[i.e., eventually. See John 18:15-16]</n> and sat down with the <n>[Jewish]</n> officers to see how things would turn out <n>[i.e., with Jesus’ trial]</n>.


text:
Now the leading priests and the entire Council <n>[called “the Sanhedrin”]</n> looked for false witnesses <n>[to testify]</n> against Jesus, in order to put Him to death.


text:
But they did not find any <n>[i.e., whose stories harmonized. See Mark 14:56]</n>, even though many false witnesses came <n>[forward to testify]</n>. Finally, two <n>[false witnesses]</n> came forward


text:
and said, “This man <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n> said, ‘I can destroy the Temple of God, and <n>[then]</n> rebuild it within three days.’”


text:
The head priest stood up and said to Him, “Have you nothing to answer? What about this charge being made against you by these people?”


text:
But Jesus did not say anything. So, the head priest said to Him, “I command you <n>[to swear]</n> by the living God, <n>[and]</n> to tell us if you are the Christ <n>[i.e., God’s specially chosen one]</n>, the Son of God!”


text:
Jesus replied to him, “You have said so; nevertheless I tell you, from now on you will see the Son of man sitting at the right side of Power <n>[i.e., God Himself]</n>, and coming on the clouds of the sky.”


text:
Then the head priest tore at his clothing <n>[i.e., as an expression of frustration]</n>, saying, “He has spoken against God <n>[i.e., by claiming Deity for Himself]</n>. What additional need do we have for witnesses? Look, you <n>[yourselves]</n> have now heard him speaking against God.


text:
What do you people think <n>[i.e., about such statements]</n>?” They answered, “He deserves to die.”


text:
Then they spit in His face and hit Him <n>[with their fists]</n>, while others slapped Him <n>[in the face]</n>,


text:
saying, “Prophesy to us, you ‘Christ.’ Tell us who hit you?” <n>[Note: By this time Jesus had been blindfolded. See Mark 14:65]</n>.


text:
Now Peter was sitting outside in a courtyard and a servant-girl approached him and said, “You also were with Jesus, the Galilean.”


text:
But he denied <n>[it]</n> in front of all of them, saying, “I do not know what you are talking about.”


text:
And when he had gone out by the gate, another servant-girl saw him and said to those nearby, “This man also was with Jesus of Nazareth.”


text:
And he denied <n>[it]</n> again, <n>[this time]</n> with an oath, saying, “I do not <n>[even]</n> know the man.”


text:
And a little later, those standing nearby came to Peter and said, “<n>[We know]</n> for sure, you also are one of them <n>[i.e., Jesus’ disciples]</n>, because your accent gives you away.”


text:
Then Peter began to curse and swear, “<n>[I tell you]</n>, I do not know the man.” And immediately a rooster crowed.


text:
Then Peter remembered the words Jesus had said, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny <n>[knowing]</n> me three times.” And he went out and cried bitterly.


text:
Now when morning came, all the leading priests and the elders of the <n>[Jewish]</n> people conferred together against Jesus as to how they might put Him to death.


text:
Then Judas, who had betrayed Him <n>[to the Jewish leaders]</n>, when he saw that Jesus had been condemned to die, changed his mind <n>[i.e., about betraying Him]</n> and brought back the thirty silver coins <n>[Note: See Matt. 26:15 for the amount of money involved]</n> to the leading priests and <n>[Jewish]</n> elders,


text:
saying, “I have sinned by delivering up an innocent man to die.” But they replied, “What is that to us? It is your affair!”


text:
And he threw down the thirty silver coins in the Sanctuary <n>[i.e., probably the outer area of the Temple]</n>, then left and went out and hanged himself.


text:
The leading priests took the silver coins and said, “It is not permissible by the Law of Moses to put this money in the Temple treasury, since it is the price <n>[paid]</n> for <n>[taking]</n> a life.


text:
So, they conferred together <n>[and decided]</n> to buy ‘The Potter’s Field’ with the money <n>[Note: This was probably an abandoned field where clay had been obtained for making pottery]</n>, for use in burying people who were not from the local area.


text:
<n>[Thus the prophecy]</n> spoken by Jeremiah, the prophet <n>[Note: The passage actually appears to be Zech. 11:12- 13]</n>, was fulfilled which said, ‘And they took the thirty silver coins, the amount charged for Him on whom certain Israelites had set a price,


text:
Now Jesus stood in front of the governor <n>[i.e., Pilate]</n>, who asked Him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” Jesus answered him, “You have said so.”


text:
But He <n>[again]</n> made no reply, not even to a single charge, which caused the governor to be greatly amazed.


text:
Now at the <n>[Passover]</n> Festival, the governor was accustomed to releasing whatever prisoner the crowd wanted.


text:
Therefore, when the people had gathered together, Pilate asked them, “Whom do you want me to release, Barabbas or Jesus, who is called ‘Christ’?”


text:
Then while Pilate was seated in his courtroom of justice, his wife sent <n>[word]</n> to him, saying, “You should have nothing to do with that innocent man. For I was very troubled in a dream over him today.” <n>[Note: That is, she was troubled over a dream she had before waking up that morning]</n>.


text:
Now the leading priests and <n>[Jewish]</n> elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas <n>[to be released]</n> and for Jesus to be killed.


text:
But the governor asked them, “Which one of these two men do you want me to release to you?” And they answered, “Barabbas.”


text:
Pilate replied, “Then what should I do to Jesus, who is called ‘Christ’?” They all shouted, “Let him be crucified!”


text:
And he said, “Why <n>[should he be]</n>? What wrong has he done?” But they shouted out even louder, “Let him be crucified!”


text:
So, when Pilate saw that he was not convincing anyone, but that a riot was brewing instead, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd saying, “I am not responsible for this man’s blood. <n>[Note: Some ancient manuscripts say “righteous man’s blood”]</n>. You tend to the matter.”


text:
And all the people answered, “Let his blood be on our hands, and on our children’s <n>[as well]</n>.”


text:
Then the governor’s soldiers took Jesus to Pilate’s headquarters and assembled the entire company <n>[i.e., about 500 men]</n> in front of Him.


text:
They stripped off His clothing and placed a scarlet robe on Him <n>[Note: Mark 15:17 calls this a “purple” robe because in that day, any color with a mixture of “red” in it was often called “purple,” so the use of “scarlet” was appropriate]</n>.


text:
Then they made a wreath out of thorns and placed it on His head and put a stick in His right hand. They knelt down in front of Him and mocked Him, saying, “Hey, king of the Jews!”


text:
And after mocking Him <n>[some more]</n>, they removed the <n>[scarlet]</n> robe and put His own clothes back on Him. Then they led Him away to crucify Him.


text:
As they were leaving <n>[i.e., probably the city of Jerusalem]</n>, they met a man from Cyrene <n>[Note: This was a city in the northern African country of Libya]</n>. His name was Simon and they forced him to go with them so he could carry Jesus’ cross <n>[i.e., probably only the cross-beam portion]</n>.


text:
And when they had come to the place called Golgotha, which means “the place of a skull” <n>[i.e., probably because it was a skull-shaped knoll in appearance]</n>,


text:
they offered Jesus wine mixed with a bitter drug <n>[i.e., for the purpose of dulling the pain of crucifixion. Mark 15:23 calls it “myrrh”]</n>, but when He tasted it He refused to drink it.


text:
And after they had crucified Him, the soldiers divided His clothing among themselves by gambling for them.


text:
They attached over His head <n>[i.e., to the upright portion of the cross]</n> the charge made against Him, which read, “This is Jesus, the king of the Jews.”


text:
And those who passed by <n>[the cross]</n> shouted abuse at Him and shook their heads <n>[in derision]</n>,


text:
saying, “You who <n>[said you]</n> would destroy the Temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself <n>[from dying]</n>; if you <n>[really]</n> are the Son of God, come down from the cross.”


text:
In the same way the leading priests, experts in the Law of Moses and <n>[Jewish]</n> elders also mocked Him, saying,


text:
“He saved other people, <n>[but]</n> he cannot <n>[even]</n> save himself <n>[i.e., from dying]</n>. He is ‘the king of Israel;’ let him now come down from the cross and then we will believe in him.


text:
He trusted in God; now let God deliver him, if He wants <n>[to save him from dying]</n>, for he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’”


text:
Then about three in the afternoon Jesus called out in a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama, sabachthani <n>[Note: These words were spoken in the commonly used Aramaic language]</n>, which mean, My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?


text:
And immediately one of them ran and got a sponge, soaked it in sour wine and, attaching it to a stick, <n>[lifted it up]</n> and offered Jesus a drink.


text:
Then Jesus called out again with a loud voice and <n>[finally]</n> gave up His spirit <n>[to God. See Luke 23:46]</n>.


text:
Just then the Temple curtain was torn in two from top to bottom, the ground shook, and rocks were split open.


text:
Graves opened up and the bodies of many dead saints <n>[i.e., God’s holy people]</n> were raised up <n>[from the dead]</n>.


text:
They came out of their graves after Jesus’ resurrection and entered the holy city <n>[i.e., Jerusalem]</n> where they appeared to many people.


text:
Now when the military man in charge, and those with him who were watching Jesus, saw <n>[and felt]</n> the earthquake and the <n>[other]</n> things that happened, they became extremely fearful, saying, “Truly this was the Son of God.”


text:
And many women, who had followed Jesus from Galilee and had ministered to His needs, were watching <n>[all this]</n> from a distance.


text:
Among them were Mary from Magdala; Mary, the mother of James and Joseph <n>[i.e., probably the wife of Clopas. See John 19:25]</n>; and the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee <n>[i.e., Salome. Mark 15:40]</n>.


text:
And when evening had come, a rich man from Arimathea named Joseph, who was also one of Jesus’ disciples,


text:
went to <n>[governor]</n> Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. So, Pilate ordered that it be given to him.


text:
and placed it in his own newly prepared grave, which he had cut out of <n>[a ledge of]</n> rock. Then he <n>[had]</n> a huge stone rolled across the entrance of the grave and went away.


text:
Mary from Magdala and the other Mary <n>[i.e., probably Jesus’ mother. See verse 56]</n>, stood near the grave site.


text:
Now on the following day, which was the day after the Preparation <n>[for the Passover Festival]</n>, the leading priests and Pharisees assembled in front of Pilate


text:
and said, “Sir, we remember what that deceiver said while he was still alive: ‘I will rise <n>[from the dead]</n> after three days.’


text:
Therefore, give the order to secure the grave site until the third day, so his disciples will not steal his body and then tell the people ‘He has risen from the dead.’ This last deception would be worse than the first one <n>[i.e., the claim that Jesus rose from the dead would be worse than the claim that he was the Messiah]</n>.”


text:
Pilate said to them, “Take <n>[a group of]</n> guards <n>[with you]</n>; go and make the grave site as secure as you can.”


text:
So, they went and secured the grave site, placing a <n>[wax]</n> seal on the stone, while the guards watched.


text:
Now as the Sabbath day ended and the first day of the week <n>[i.e., Sunday]</n> approached <n>[Note: See Mark 16:1-2 for the exact timing]</n>, Mary from Magdala and the other Mary <n>[i.e., Jesus’ mother. See Matt. 27:56]</n> went to look at the grave site.


text:
Now there had been a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord had descended from heaven and, <n>[having]</n> come to roll away the stone, was <n>[now]</n> sitting on it.


text:
The angel said to the women; “Do not be afraid, for I know you are looking for Jesus, who has been crucified.


text:
He is not here, for He has risen just as He said <n>[He would]</n>. Come and see the place where the Lord had been lying,


text:
then go quickly and tell His disciples, ‘He has risen from the dead and is <n>[now]</n> going on ahead of you into Galilee. You will see Him there.’ Now <n>[that is all]</n> I have to tell you.”


text:
So, they left the grave site quickly, with fear and great joy, and ran to give the message to His disciples.


text:
Suddenly Jesus met them and gave them greetings. They approached Him and took hold of His feet <n>[and knelt]</n> to worship Him.


text:
Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers <n>[i.e., the disciples, that you have seen me]</n>, so they can head for Galilee where they will see me.”


text:
Now while these women were on their way, some of the guards entered the city and began telling the leading priests everything that had happened.


text:
And when they had assembled with the <n>[Jewish]</n> elders and conferred with them, they offered large sums of money to the soldiers,


text:
saying, “We want you to say, ‘Jesus’ disciples came at night and stole his body while we were asleep.’


text:
And if the governor hears about this <n>[plot]</n>, we will persuade him <n>[i.e., not to punish you for negligence]</n>, so you will not have to worry about that.”


text:
So, they took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story <n>[i.e., that Jesus’ body had been stolen by His disciples]</n> was told widely among the Jews, and continues to be told to this day.


text:
But the eleven disciples <n>[i.e., apostles]</n> went to the mountain in Galilee where Jesus had ordered them to go.


text:
And when they met Him <n>[there]</n>, they <n>[knelt down]</n> to worship Him; but some <n>[still]</n> had doubts <n>[i.e., about His resurrection. See John 20:25]</n>.


text:
So, as you go, make disciples out of people from all the nations, then immerse believers <n>[See Mark 16:15-16]</n> into the name of <n>[i.e., to enter a relationship with]</n> the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit.


text:
<n>[Then]</n> go on teaching them <n>[i.e., these new converts]</n> to obey everything I have commanded you and my presence will be with you always, even to the end of the age.”


text:
It was even written in Isaiah, the prophet <n>[Note: Verse 2 is quoted from Mal. 3:1; verse 3 from Isa. 40:3]</n>, “Look, I am sending my messenger on ahead of you. He will prepare the way for you.


text:
He will be the voice of a man shouting out in the desert, <n>[urging people]</n> to make the road for the Lord ready <n>[to travel on]</n>; to make a straight pathway for him.”


text:
John <n>[the Immerser]</n> came immersing people in the desert and proclaiming that those immersed on the basis of their repentance would receive the forgiveness of sins <n>[from God]</n>.


text:
And people from throughout all the regions of Judea and all of Jerusalem went out to John <n>[in the desert]</n>. And he immersed them in the Jordan River as they confessed their sins.


text:
John wore clothing made of camel’s hair and he had a leather belt around his waist. He ate grasshoppers and wild honey.


text:
In his preaching John said, “One who is more powerful than I am will follow my ministry. I am not <n>[even]</n> worthy to stoop down and loosen the straps of His sandals <n>[i.e., to serve as His slave]</n>.


text:
And it happened at that time that Jesus went from Nazareth, in Galilee <n>[i.e., south to Judea]</n>, where He was immersed by John in the Jordan River.


text:
And immediately upon emerging from the water, He saw the sky split open and the Holy Spirit descending on Him as a dove.


text:
And a voice called out from heaven, saying, “You are my dearly loved Son. I am very pleased with you.”


text:
He spent forty days in this desert where He was put to the test by Satan. He was with wild animals, and angels ministered to His needs <n>[while there]</n>.


text:
Now after John was turned over <n>[i.e., to the authorities and imprisoned]</n> Jesus went <n>[back]</n> to Galilee preaching the good news from God


text:
and saying, “The appointed time has arrived and the kingdom of God is near. So, you people should repent <n>[i.e., change your hearts and lives]</n> and believe the good news <n>[about the kingdom]</n>.”


text:
And while walking along the shore of Lake Galilee, Jesus saw Simon <n>[i.e., Peter]</n> and his brother Andrew casting their net in the lake, for they were fishermen.


text:
Then, as He walked on a little farther, He saw James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John, who were in their boat repairing nets.


text:
Immediately He called them <n>[to become His followers]</n> and they left their father, Zebedee, and went along with Him.


text:
So, they went to Capernaum <n>[Note: This was a city in Galilee that later became Jesus’ headquarters while in Galilee. See verse 29 and 2:1]</n>, and on the <n>[first]</n> Sabbath day Jesus entered the synagogue and taught people.


text:
They were amazed at His teaching for He taught them as one who had <n>[real]</n> authority, and not as the experts in the Law of Moses.


text:
“What business do we have with you, Jesus from Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are; <n>[you are]</n> God’s Holy One.”


text:
And the evil spirit caused the man to have a convulsion, then shouted with a loud voice and came out of him.


text:
And all the people <n>[in the synagogue]</n> were so amazed they began asking one another, “What is this, some new teaching? And it is spoken with such authority! He even orders evil spirits, and they obey him.”


text:
And news about Him quickly spread everywhere, <n>[even]</n> into all of Galilee and the surrounding regions.


text:
And as soon as they left the synagogue, they went into the house of Simon <n>[i.e., Peter]</n> and Andrew, taking James and John with them.


text:
Now Simon’s mother-in-law was sick <n>[in bed]</n> with a fever. Immediately, Jesus was told about her <n>[condition]</n>


text:
so He went to her, took her by the hand and raised her up <n>[from bed]</n>. The fever left her and she began serving them.


text:
When evening came and the sun had set, they brought to Jesus all those who were sick and those dominated by evil spirits.


text:
and He healed many of those who were sick with various diseases and drove out many evil spirits. But He did not permit the evil spirits to tell people <n>[who He was]</n>, because they knew who He was <n>[i.e., the Christ]</n>.


text:
Very early in the morning, <n>[even]</n> before daylight, Jesus woke up, left Simon’s house <n>[verse 29]</n> and went out to a deserted place where He prayed.


text:
And Simon and those who were with him <n>[i.e., probably Andrew, James and John. See verse 29]</n> followed Him.


text:
He said to them, “Let us go on to the next towns so that I can preach there also, for this was why I came out <n>[i.e., Jesus was sent by God to preach to other towns as well as Capernaum. See Luke 4:43]</n>.”


text:
So, Jesus went into the <n>[Jewish]</n> synagogues throughout all Galilee, preaching <n>[the good news about the coming kingdom, verses 14- 15]</n> and driving out evil spirits.


text:
Then a person with an infectious skin disease came to Jesus and, kneeling down before Him, begged Him, saying, “If you want to, you can heal me.” <n>[Note: Throughout this narrative the terms “heal/healing” are originally “clean/cleansing” because the Jews viewed a person with such a disease as ceremonially “unclean.” See Lev. 13:1-3]</n>.


text:
And being moved with deep pity, Jesus reached out His hand, touched him and said, “I do want to; be healed.”


text:
and saying to him, “Make sure you do not say anything to anyone. But go and show yourself to the priest and make an offering for your healing with whatever Moses ordered <n>[Lev. 14:1-9]</n>, as evidence to people <n>[that you were completely healed]</n>.”


text:
But <n>[instead]</n> the man went out telling everyone about the miracle of healing and spreading the story widely, so that Jesus was not able to enter a town publicly but had to remain outside in deserted places. <n>[So]</n>, people went to Him there from all over the region.


text:
After Jesus returned to Capernaum several days later, it became known that He was <n>[back]</n> at home <n>[i.e., possibly at the house of Peter and Andrew, where He was staying. See 1:29]</n>.


text:
And there were so many people gathered to listen to His message that there was no room for any more <n>[in the courtyard]</n> around the doorway.


text:
Then some people came, bringing a man afflicted with paralysis, who was being carried by four friends.


text:
And when they were unable to get near Jesus, because of the <n>[large]</n> crowd, they removed <n>[a section of]</n> the roof <n>[directly above Him]</n>. <n>[Note: The roof was a flat area, where people retired for rest, prayer, etc., and easily accessible from an outside stairway]</n>. And when they had broken open <n>[a sizable hole]</n>, they lowered the cot on which the paralyzed man was lying.


text:
When Jesus saw <n>[the evidence of]</n> their faith, He said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”


text:
“Why does this man talk this way? He is speaking against God. Who can forgive sins except one, that is, God?”


text:
And immediately Jesus perceived in His spirit what they were reasoning in their minds and said to them, “Why are you reasoning like this in your minds?


text:
Which is easier, to say to the paralyzed man, ‘your sins are forgiven,’ or to say ‘get up, pick up your cot and walk’?


text:
But, so you will know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins (He then said to the paralyzed man),


text:
So, he got up and immediately picked up his cot and walked out in front of them all, so that everyone was amazed and gave honor to God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this before.”


text:
Then Jesus went out again, walking along the shore of the lake, and <n>[when]</n> the entire crowd came out to Him, He taught them.


text:
And as He walked along He saw Levi <n>[i.e., the same person as Matthew. See Matt. 9:9]</n>, the son of Alphaeus, sitting at the toll booth <n>[i.e., collecting taxes]</n>. He said to him, “Become my follower.” And he got up and followed Him.


text:
And it happened that Jesus was having a meal at Levi’s house and many tax collectors and worldly people sat down with Him and His disciples, for many <n>[of these kinds of people]</n> became His followers.


text:
And when the experts in the Law of Moses, being Pharisees <n>[i.e., a strict sect of the Jewish religion]</n>, saw that He was eating with tax collectors and worldly people, they said to His disciples, “Why does Jesus eat and drink with tax collectors and worldly people?”


text:
When Jesus heard <n>[about]</n> this, He said to them, “People who are healthy do not need a doctor, but <n>[only]</n> sick people do. I did not come to call those who do right, but sinners <n>[instead]</n>.”


text:
Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting, <n>[i.e., going without food and/or drink for religious reasons]</n>. Some people came and asked Jesus, “Why do John’s disciples and the Pharisees’ disciples fast, but your disciples do not?”


text:
Jesus answered them, “Can the companions of the groom fast while the groom is still with them? As long as they have the groom with them they cannot fast.


text:
But the time will come when the groom will be taken away from them. Then they will fast at that time.


text:
“No one sows a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, because what was supposed to cover the hole <n>[actually]</n> makes it larger. The new <n>[piece of cloth]</n> tears away from the old one and the hole is made worse.


text:
And no one puts freshly squeezed grape juice into bottles made of previously used animal skins. If he does, the grape juice will <n>[cause cracks and]</n> burst the <n>[dried-out]</n> animal skins and the grape juice will <n>[all leak out and]</n> be wasted, and the animal skin bottles will become useless. But people put freshly squeezed grape juice into newly prepared animal skin bottles.”


text:
And it happened that Jesus was walking through the grain fields on the Sabbath day and His disciples began picking off heads of grain <n>[to eat]</n> as they traveled along. <n>[Note: It was an accepted custom for people in that day to be permitted to do this as they walked long the paths bordering a grain field]</n>.


text:
And the Pharisees asked Him, “Look, why are they <n>[i.e., Jesus’ disciples]</n> doing what is against the Law of Moses on the Sabbath day?”


text:
And He replied to them, “Did you never read what King David did when he and his men were hungry and needed something to eat? <n>[See I Sam. 21:6]</n>.


text:
Or how he entered the house of God <n>[i.e., the Temple]</n> when Abiathar was head priest, and ate the ‘Bread of Presence’ which was not permissible, according to the Law of Moses, for anyone but priests? He even gave <n>[some of it]</n> to those who were with him.”


text:
And Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath day was made for man’s <n>[benefit]</n>, and not man for the Sabbath <n>[day’s benefit]</n>.


text:
And the Pharisees were watching Him to see if He would heal the man on the Sabbath day, so that they could <n>[find a reason to]</n> accuse Him.


text:
Then He said to the Pharisees, “Is it permissible by the Law of Moses to do something good, or something harmful on the Sabbath day? To save a life or to kill it?” But they did not reply.


text:
And when He had looked around at them with righteous indignation, being grieved over their stubbornness, He said to the man, “Reach out your hand.” And when he reached it out, his hand was restored <n>[to normal use]</n>.


text:
And the Pharisees immediately went out and conferred with the Herodians against Jesus, plotting how they could kill Him. <n>[Note: These Herodians were members of a political party favoring King Herod]</n>.


text:
<n>[Then]</n> Jesus withdrew <n>[from there]</n> with His disciples and went to the lake <n>[i.e., Lake of Galilee]</n>, being followed by a large crowd from Galilee. Also, a large crowd from Judea,


text:
Jerusalem, Idumaea, the east side of the Jordan River, and from around Tyre and Sidon <n>[i.e., cities on the northwest coast of Palestine]</n> came to Him, having heard about the great things <n>[i.e., miracles]</n> He had been performing.


text:
He told His disciples to have a small boat waiting for Him <n>[i.e., from which He could address the people. See 4:1]</n>, to prevent His being thronged by the large crowd.


text:
For He had healed so many people that large numbers of them who were plagued with serious illnesses were crowding around Him in hope of getting to touch Him.


text:
And whenever they saw Him, <n>[people possessed by]</n> evil spirits fell to the ground in front of Him, shouting, “You are the Son of God.”


text:
James and his brother John, the sons of Zebedee, to whom He gave the added name Boanerges, which means “Sons of Thunder,”


text:
Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew <n>[i.e., the same person as Nathaniel. See John 1:45]</n>, Matthew <n>[i.e., the same person as Levi. See Mark 2:14]</n>, Thomas <n>[i.e., the same person as Didymus. See John 11:16]</n>, James, the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus <n>[i.e., the same person as Judas, the son of James. See Luke 6:16]</n>, Simon the Cananaean <n>[i.e., the same person as the Zealot. See Luke 6:15]</n>,


text:
Soon a crowd assembled again so that they could not even eat a meal <n>[i.e., without people crowding all around them]</n>.


text:
When His relatives <n>[or friends]</n> heard about this <n>[i.e., all that He was doing]</n>, they went out to take custody of Him <n>[for safety reasons (?)]</n>, for people were saying, “He has lost his mind.”


text:
And the experts in the Law of Moses who had come down from Jerusalem were saying <n>[Note: This followed the incident of Jesus healing a man with an evil spirit. See Matt. 12:22-28]</n>, “He has Beelzebub <n>[in him]</n>,” and “He is driving out evil spirits by <n>[the power of]</n> the chief of evil spirits.”


text:
And He called them to Him and began speaking to them in parables <n>[i.e., brief stories to illustrate His teaching]</n>, saying, “How can Satan drive out Satan?


text:
And if Satan has risen up against himself, and is divided <n>[i.e., in aim and purpose]</n> he cannot survive, and his end has come.


text:
But no one can enter a strong man’s house and steal his belongings unless he first ties up the strong man. Only then will he be able to steal from his house.


text:
Truly I tell you, all of mankind’s sins and the abusive language that they use in speaking against God <n>[and men]</n> can be forgiven.


text:
But the person who speaks against the Holy Spirit can never be forgiven, for he is guilty of a never ending sin.”


text:
Jesus said all this because these experts in the Law of Moses had been saying; “He has an evil spirit in him.”


text:
Then Jesus’ mother and <n>[half-]</n> brothers came and stood outside <n>[i.e., of a large house. See Matt. 12:46-13:1]</n>. They sent a message to Him, asking Him to come out to them.


text:
Someone in the large crowd that was sitting around Him said to Him, “Look, your mother and your brothers are outside looking for you.”


text:
Then He looked out over those gathered around Him and said, “Look, <n>[here is]</n> my mother and my brothers!


text:
Jesus again began teaching along the shore of the lake <n>[of Galilee]</n>. A huge crowd gathered around Him so that He had to sit in a boat out in the lake <n>[to speak to them]</n>, while the entire crowd stood on the shore.


text:
He taught the people many things using parables <n>[to illustrate His lessons]</n>. In His teaching He said to them,


text:
and it happened, as he sowed <n>[i.e., scattering the seed by hand]</n>, some of it fell by the side of the road and birds came and ate it.


text:
And some seed fell on rocky ground where there was not much soil, and immediately it sprouted up because the soil was so shallow.


text:
But when the sun came up the newly sprouted plants were scorched, and because they had no roots, <n>[soon]</n> withered away.


text:
Then other seeds fell into fertile soil, and growing up to maturity, they yielded an ever increasing crop. They produced thirty, sixty and even a hundred times <n>[as much as was planted]</n>.”


text:
And when He was alone those people who gathered around Him, along with the twelve apostles, asked Him what the parables meant.


text:
He said to them, “You disciples are being given an understanding of the secret of the kingdom of God, but to outsiders everything will be told in parables.


text:
This is so that even though they see, they will see and yet not perceive. And even though they hear, they will hear and yet not understand. For if they did, they would turn <n>[back to God]</n> again and receive forgiveness.”


text:
And Jesus continued to speak to them; “Do you not know what this parable means? Then how can you understand any of the other parables?


text:
Some of the seed that fell along the roadside represents where ‘the word’ was sown <n>[i.e., preached]</n>. When these people have heard, immediately Satan comes and takes away ‘the word’ which had been sown in them.


text:
And in the same way, some <n>[of the seed]</n> that was sown on rocky soil represented those who heard ‘the word’ and immediately accepted it gladly,


text:
but <n>[since]</n> they had such shallow roots, they continued on for <n>[only]</n> a little while. Then, when trouble and persecution arose over <n>[obeying]</n> ‘the word,’ immediately they stumbled <n>[i.e., and fell away from God]</n>.


text:
but worry <n>[over things]</n> of the world, and the deceitfulness of material wealth, and the evil desires for other things entered their hearts and choked <n>[the effectiveness of]</n> ‘the word,’ so that it did not yield a crop <n>[in their lives]</n>.


text:
Then there were those who were sown on fertile soil. These represent people who heard ‘the word,’ accepted it and yielded a crop of thirty, sixty and even a hundred times <n>[as much as was planted]</n>.”


text:
Then He said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under a bushel-sized container, or under the bed, instead of on its stand?


text:
For there is nothing that is hidden that should not be exposed. Neither is anything covered up that should not be revealed.


text:
And He said to them, “Pay attention to what you are hearing from me. The standard you use in giving <n>[to others]</n> is the standard they will use on you, with even more added.


text:
For to the person who <n>[already]</n> has something, <n>[more]</n> will be given, and from the person who has <n>[almost]</n> nothing, even what <n>[little]</n> he has will be taken away from him.”


text:
then went to bed and got up the next day to find that the seed had sprouted and grown, yet he did not know how it happened.


text:
The soil yields its crop, first the green sprout, then the ears of grain, and then the kernels in the ears.


text:
And He continued to speak, “What shall I compare the kingdom of God to? Or, what parable will <n>[best]</n> illustrate it?


text:
even though it is the least <n>[significant]</n> of all seeds on earth, becomes larger than all other plants. It develops huge branches so that the birds of the sky can roost in their shade.”


text:
And He spoke “the word” to them <n>[i.e., the crowds]</n> with as many such parables as they were able to receive.


text:
And He did not speak to them <n>[i.e., concerning the kingdom]</n> without using a parable, but He explained everything to His own disciples privately.


text:
When evening came that day He said to the disciples, “Let us go over to the other side <n>[i.e., the east side of Lake Galilee]</n>.”


text:
And leaving the crowd, the disciples took Him in their boat just the way He was <n>[i.e., this probably means without His making provision for the trip]</n>. They were accompanied by other boats also.


text:
<n>[Then]</n> a violent windstorm arose <n>[on the lake]</n> and huge waves began splashing into the boat until it began to fill with water.


text:
Jesus was sleeping on a pillow in the stern of the boat. They awakened Him, shouting, “Teacher, do you not care that we are sinking?”


text:
He <n>[immediately]</n> awoke and spoke sternly to the wind and called out to the water, “Be peaceful and still.” <n>[Immediately]</n> the wind stopped blowing and a great calm came over the water.


text:
And He said to His disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you not still have <n>[any]</n> faith?” And they were extremely afraid, and said to one another, “Who can this man be that even the wind and water obey him?”


text:
Then Jesus and His disciples <n>[finally]</n> arrived on the other side of the lake <n>[i.e., the east side]</n> in the district of Geresa <n>[Note: Matt. 8:28 says ‘Gadara.’ Geresa and Gadara were two towns 12 miles apart in the same region east of Lake Galilee]</n>.


text:
When Jesus left the boat, immediately a man with an evil spirit came from the graveyard to meet Him.


text:
This man had been living in the graveyard and no one had been able to keep him tied up, not even with a chain.


text:
He had often been bound with ropes and chains but had broken the chains off and torn the ropes to pieces. And no one had enough strength to subdue him.


text:
And night and day, in the graveyard and in the mountains, he was always shouting out and cutting himself with <n>[sharp]</n> rocks.


text:
And shouting with a loud voice, he said, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, in God’s name, do not torture me.”


text:
Then He asked <n>[the evil spirit]</n>, “What is your name?” And he answered Him, “My name is ‘Legion,’ <n>[Note: This word means a number consisting of between 5,000 and 6,000]</n>, for there are many of us <n>[i.e., evil spirits]</n>.”


text:
And He gave them permission to do it. So, the evil spirits went out of the man’s body and entered the bodies of the hogs. The herd then rushed down the cliff into the lake. There were about two thousand that drowned in the lake.


text:
Those who had been feeding them ran and told what all occurred in the town and around the countryside and <n>[so]</n> people came to find out what had happened.


text:
And when people came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been dominated by 5,000 to 6,000 evil spirits sitting down with his clothes on and perfectly sane, and they were afraid.


text:
Those who saw this told the people what had happened to the man dominated by the evil spirits and about the hogs.


text:
As He entered the boat the man who had been dominated by evil spirits begged for permission to be allowed to go with Him.


text:
But Jesus would not allow him, saying to the man, “Go home to your friends <n>[and family (?)]</n> and tell them about the great things the Lord has done for you and how He had pity on you.”


text:
But the man went away and began telling people throughout Decapolis about all of the great things Jesus had done for him. <n>[Note: “Decapolis” means “ten cities” and was a region located east of the Jordan River]</n>.


text:
When Jesus had crossed over again in a boat to the other side <n>[i.e., to the northwest shore of the lake, probably in the vicinity of Capernaum]</n>, a large crowd gathered around Him along the shore of the lake.


text:
About then a man named Jairus, one of the officials of the synagogue, came to Jesus and, upon seeing Him, fell to the ground at His feet.


text:
He begged Him earnestly, saying, “My little daughter is about to die; <n>[please]</n> come and place your hands on her so she may be healed and live.”


text:
She had suffered much at the hands of many doctors <n>[i.e., through treatments and medication that only increased her discomfort]</n> and had spent all her money <n>[on medical bills]</n> and yet got worse instead of better.


text:
Just then Jesus perceived in Himself that <n>[healing]</n> power had gone out from Him so turned to the crowd and asked, “Who touched my clothing?”


text:
And His disciples said to Him, “You see the large crowd thronging you and yet you ask ‘Who touched me’?”


text:
But the woman became afraid and trembled with fear, for she knew what had happened to her <n>[i.e., the healing]</n>, so she came and fell down in front of Jesus and told Him the whole truth.


text:
And He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace and be <n>[i.e., remain]</n> healed from your affliction.”


text:
While Jesus was still speaking, someone came from the synagogue official’s house and said <n>[to the official]</n>, “Your daughter is dead; why are you bothering the Teacher any more?”


text:
But Jesus disregarded what the person said and told the official, “Do not be afraid; just believe <n>[i.e., in my power to restore your daughter]</n>.”


text:
He did not allow anyone to follow Him <n>[i.e., to the official’s house]</n> except Peter, James and his brother John.


text:
And when they arrived at the synagogue official’s house He saw a commotion there, with many people crying and wailing loudly.


text:
And when He entered <n>[the house]</n> He said to them, “Why are you making such a commotion and crying? The child is not <n>[really]</n> dead, but only sleeping.”


text:
They laughed at Him scornfully. But after having all the people wait outside He took the child’s father and mother, along with those who came with Him <n>[i.e., Peter, James and John]</n> and went in to where the <n>[dead]</n> child lay.


text:
And taking the child by the hand He said to her, “Talitha cumi,” which means “Little girl,” (I tell you), “get up. ”


text:
And immediately the little girl arose and walked, for she was twelve years old. <n>[Upon seeing this]</n> the people were completely amazed.


text:
But He strictly ordered them not to tell anyone about this; then He told them to give the girl something to eat.


text:
Then Jesus went out from there and came to His home town <n>[i.e., Nazareth]</n> and His disciples went with Him.


text:
And when the Sabbath day came, He began teaching in the synagogue and many who heard Him were amazed, and asked <n>[such questions as]</n>, “Where did this man get these things <n>[i.e., knowledge, miracles, etc.]</n>?” and “What kind of wisdom has been given to him?” and “What do these supernatural powers he performs mean?


text:
Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters living here among us?” And they were led to doubt His true identity.


text:
Then Jesus said to them, “A prophet does not go without receiving honor, except in his own home town, and among his own relatives, and among his own family members.”


text:
And He could not perform any supernatural deed there <n>[i.e., because of their lack of faith in Him]</n>, except He placed hands on a few sick people <n>[i.e., accompanied by prayer (?)]</n> and healed them.


text:
<n>[But]</n> He marveled at the people’s lack of faith. So, He traveled and taught throughout the <n>[surrounding]</n> villages.


text:
Then Jesus called to Him the twelve apostles and sent them out two by two. He gave them authority over evil spirits


text:
and ordered them not to take anything with them during their travels, except a walking stick. They were to take no food, no traveling bag <n>[for personal belongings]</n>, and no money in their money belts,


text:
And the people from whatever place that does not welcome you or listen to you, when you leave there, shake the dust off from under your shoes as evidence against them.” <n>[Note: This was a Jewish custom showing disdain and intended to suggest their unworthiness]</n>.


text:
Then they went out and preached that people should repent <n>[i.e., change their hearts and lives]</n>.


text:
And they drove out many evil spirits and applied <n>[olive]</n> oil to <n>[the heads of]</n> many sick people and healed them.


text:
Now King Herod heard about this <n>[i.e., what Jesus was doing]</n> because His name had become well known. He said, “John the Immerser has risen from the dead and it is his powers that are at work in Jesus.”


text:
But others said, “He is <n>[the prophet]</n> Elijah” <n>[while]</n> others said, “He is a prophet like one of the prophets <n>[of old]</n>.”


text:
But when King Herod heard <n>[about Jesus]</n>, he said, “John, whom I <n>[had]</n> decapitated, has risen.”


text:
For it was Herod himself who had sent for John and had him arrested and chained up in prison. He did this to please Herodias, who was <n>[i.e., had been]</n> his brother Philip’s wife, but whom Herod had married.


text:
Now <n>[because of this]</n> Herodias had a grudge against John and wanted to kill him, but had not been able to.


text:
It was because Herod was afraid of John, knowing he was a righteous and holy man, so he protected him. And Herod became very disturbed whenever he listened to John, yet he heard him gladly.


text:
Then an ideal opportunity arose <n>[i.e., for Herodias to do away with John]</n> when Herod gave a dinner on his birthday for his influential friends, military commanders and the prominent officials of Galilee.


text:
And when Herodias’ daughter <n>[Note: According to Josephus her name was Salome]</n> came in and danced <n>[in front of them, sensually]</n>, she pleased Herod and his party guests so much that the king said to the young woman, “Ask me for whatever you want and I will give it to you.”


text:
And he vowed to her, “I will give you whatever you ask me for, up to one half <n>[the wealth]</n> of my kingdom.”


text:
So, she went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” And her mother said, “<n>[Ask for]</n> the head of John the Immerser.”


text:
At once she hurried in to the king and said, “I would like you to give me the head of John the Immerser on a <n>[large]</n> platter right away.”


text:
And the king became very distressed <n>[over such a gruesome request]</n>, but because he had promised her with oaths, and <n>[to keep from looking bad]</n> in front of his party guests, he did not refuse her <n>[request]</n>.


text:
And immediately the king sent a soldier who served as his guard and ordered him to bring John’s head to him. So, he went and decapitated him in the prison,


text:
and brought his head on a <n>[large]</n> platter and gave it to the young woman. She <n>[in turn]</n> gave it to her mother <n>[Herodias]</n>.


text:
And when John’s disciples heard <n>[what had happened]</n> they took his body and buried it in a grave.


text:
Then the apostles got together with Jesus and told Him everything they had done and taught <n>[on their mission]</n>.


text:
He said to them, “You men, leave here and go to a deserted place and rest for awhile.” For there were so many people coming and going <n>[i.e., to listen to preaching, receive healing, etc.]</n>, that they had no opportunity even to eat.


text:
So, they <n>[i.e., Jesus and His apostles]</n> left by boat and went to a separate place <n>[where they could be]</n> alone.


text:
But the people saw them going and, since many recognized them, these people ran on ahead of them from all the <n>[surrounding]</n> towns.


text:
Then Jesus left <n>[His place of seclusion]</n> and, seeing the large crowd, He felt deep compassion for them because they were <n>[as disoriented]</n> as sheep without a shepherd, so He began teaching them.


text:
And when the day was nearly over His disciples came to Him and said, “This place is deserted and the day is almost over;


text:
send the crowd away so they can go into the surrounding countryside and towns to buy themselves something to eat.”


text:
But He answered them, “You <n>[men]</n> give them something to eat.” And they replied, “Should we go and buy a supply of bread to give them to eat?” <n>[Note: The amount mentioned here indicates that it was two hundred twelve-hour days of a farm laborer’s pay, or about $21,600 in 2005]</n>.


text:
And He said to them, “How many loaves <n>[of bread]</n> do you have? Go and see.” And when they had found out, they said, “Five <n>[barley]</n> loaves <n>[See John 6:9]</n> and two <n>[probably smoked]</n> fish.”


text:
Then He took the five loaves of bread and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He asked God’s blessing on them. Then He broke the loaves and gave them to His disciples to set in front of the people <n>[to eat]</n>. He divided the two fish among them also


text:
The number eating the loaves of bread was five thousand men. <n>[Note: This was besides women and children. See Matt. 14:21]</n>.


text:
And about then Jesus compelled His disciples to get into a boat and go on ahead of Him to the other side <n>[i.e., to the west side of Lake Galilee]</n> to Bethsaida <n>[Note: This was apparently a different “Bethsaida” from the one mentioned in Luke 9:10, which was on the east side of Lake Galilee]</n>, while He Himself sent the crowd away.


text:
When evening came the boat <n>[containing His disciples]</n> was in the middle of the lake while He remained alone on the shore.


text:
When He saw how distressed His disciples were, rowing against an opposing wind, Jesus came to them between three and six o’clock in the morning, walking on the water, and almost walked past them.


text:
becoming <n>[very]</n> frightened when they saw Him. But He immediately spoke to them and said, “Take courage, and do not be afraid, it is I.”


text:
Then He got up into the boat with them and the wind <n>[immediately]</n> stopped. And His disciples were greatly amazed <n>[at this]</n>,


text:
but they did not understand <n>[the miracle]</n> of the loaves because their minds were insensitive <n>[i.e., to the nature and power of Jesus]</n>.


text:
And when they had <n>[finally]</n> crossed over <n>[i.e., to the west side of Lake Galilee]</n>, they arrived in the district of Gennesaret and moored the boat on shore.


text:
And wherever He entered towns, cities or the countryside, they placed sick people at the open shopping markets and begged Him to allow them to touch even the edge of His robe. And all those who touched Him were made well.


text:
The Pharisees and some experts in the Law of Moses, who had come from Jerusalem, gathered around Jesus.


text:
They had observed some of His disciples eating their food with contaminated, that is, <n>[ceremonially]</n> unwashed hands.


text:
(For the Pharisees and all the Jews would not eat anything unless they first scrubbed their hands <n>[i.e., up to the wrists]</n> in accordance with the <n>[long-established]</n> tradition of the Jewish elders).


text:
And when they returned from the open shopping markets they refused to eat <n>[anything]</n> until they washed themselves <n>[or “it,” that is, the food, thoroughly]</n>. There were also many other traditions which they <n>[strictly]</n> observed, like washing cups, pots and copper kettles <n>[thoroughly]</n>.) <n>[Note: The most accurate Greek manuscripts do not add “and beds” in this verse]</n>.


text:
The Pharisees and experts in the Law of Moses asked Jesus, “Why do your disciples not live according to the traditions of the Jewish elders, but <n>[instead]</n> eat their food with contaminated <n>[i.e., ceremonially unwashed]</n> hands?”


text:
And He answered them, “Isaiah prophesied about you hypocrites very well when he wrote <n>[Isa. 29:13]</n>, ‘These people honor me with their lips <n>[i.e., by what they say]</n>, but their heart is far from <n>[honoring]</n> me.


text:
They are worshiping me for nothing because they are teaching principles which are <n>[merely]</n> the requirements of men.’


text:
And He said to them, “You are good at rejecting the commandment of God so you can keep your traditions.


text:
For Moses said, <n>[Ex. 20:12]</n> ‘Give honor to your father and mother,’ and <n>[Ex. 21:17 says]</n>, ‘Whoever says bad things about his father or mother should surely be put to death.’


text:
But when you people say, ‘If someone says to his father or mother, <n>[the money]</n> I could have helped you with is Corban; in other words, <n>[it is]</n> given to God,’


text:
You are making God’s message useless by <n>[enforcing]</n> the tradition you have been following. And you do many things like that.”


text:
Then He called the crowd to Him again and said to them, “Listen to me, all of you, and understand <n>[what I am saying]</n>.


text:
There is nothing that enters a person’s body from the outside that can <n>[spiritually]</n> corrupt him, but it is what proceeds out of a person’s life that <n>[spiritually]</n> corrupts him.”


text:
He said to them, ‘Are you also as lacking in understanding <n>[as the others]</n>? Do you not understand that whatever enters a person’s body from the outside cannot <n>[spiritually]</n> corrupt him?


text:
It is because it does not go into his heart, but into his stomach, and <n>[eventually]</n> passes out into the toilet.” By saying this He made all foods <n>[ceremonially]</n> acceptable.


text:
For from within, out of people’s hearts, proceed evil thoughts, sexual immorality, stealing, murder, extramarital affairs,


text:
greedy desires, wickedness, deceit, unrestrained indecency, envy, slander, arrogance and foolishness.


text:
All these evil things proceed from within <n>[man’s heart]</n> and <n>[spiritually]</n> corrupt him.”


text:
And from there Jesus got up and went away into the region of Tyre and Sidon. He entered a house but did not want anyone to know it. However, He could not keep it secret.


text:
But just then a woman whose little daughter was dominated by an evil spirit heard about Jesus and came and fell down at His feet.


text:
Now the woman was a Greek <n>[i.e., a Gentile]</n>, a Syrophoenician by nationality. <n>[Note: This was a region just north of Galilee and consisted of Syria and Phoenicia]</n>. She begged Him to drive out the evil spirit from her daughter.


text:
So, He said to her, “Children should be the first ones to eat until they are full, for it is not proper to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.”


text:
But she answered Him, “Yes Lord, but even the dogs under the table eat the crumbs dropped by the children.”


text:
And He said to her, “Because you have said this, go on your way; the evil spirit has left your daughter.”


text:
And she went away to her house and found her child lying on her bed with the evil spirit gone from her.


text:
Again He left the region of Tyre and traveled <n>[north]</n> through Sidon, <n>[then back south]</n> to Lake Galilee, and through the middle of Decapolis.


text:
And they brought to Him a deaf man who had a speech impediment and they begged Him to place His hand on him <n>[for healing]</n>.


text:
So, Jesus took him away from the crowd by himself and put His fingers into the man’s ears. Then He spit and touched the man’s tongue <n>[i.e., with His saliva]</n>


text:
And <n>[immediately]</n> the man’s hearing was restored, his speech impediment was removed and he began speaking clearly.


text:
Then Jesus ordered the people <n>[who witnessed the miracle]</n> not to tell anyone <n>[about it]</n>, but the more He urged them not to, the more widely they publicized it.


text:
And they were utterly amazed, saying, “He has done everything just right; He makes even the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.”


text:
In those days, when a large crowd again assembled <n>[i.e., to listen to Jesus’ teaching]</n> and did not have anything to eat, Jesus called His disciples and said to them,


text:
“I feel deep pity for this crowd because they have continued listening to me for three days now and have nothing <n>[left]</n> to eat.


text:
And if I send them home hungry they will become weak on the way, because some of them have come a long distance.”


text:
And His disciples replied to Him, “Where will a person get enough bread to feed these people in such a deserted place like this?”


text:
And He asked them, “How many loaves of bread do you have?” And they answered, “We have seven loaves.”


text:
Then He ordered the crowd to sit down on the ground; he took the seven loaves, and after giving thanks to God <n>[for them]</n>, He divided the food and gave it to His disciples to set in front of them. They <n>[in turn]</n> set it in front of the crowd.


text:
They <n>[also]</n> had a few small fish and after asking God’s blessing on them, He ordered these also to be set in front of them.


text:
And they <n>[all]</n> ate until they were full, then gathered up seven baskets of broken pieces which were left over.


text:
The number <n>[who ate]</n> was about four thousand men <n>[besides women and children. See Matt. 15:38]</n>. Then Jesus sent them away.


text:
Immediately He boarded a boat with His disciples and crossed <n>[to the west side of the lake]</n>, to the region of Dalmanutha. <n>[Note: Matt. 15:39 says “Magadan,” which was probably in the same vicinity as Dalmanutha]</n>.


text:
The Pharisees and Sadducees <n>[i.e., these were strict sects of the Jewish religion]</n>, came out and began disputing with Jesus, asking for a <n>[supernatural]</n> sign from Him, <n>[in an attempt]</n> to test Him.


text:
Then He sighed deeply in His spirit and said, “Why does this generation of people look for a <n>[supernatural]</n> sign? Truly I tell you, there will not be any <n>[supernatural]</n> sign given to this generation.”


text:
Then He left them and boarded a boat again and sailed to the other side <n>[i.e., the east side of Lake Galilee]</n>.


text:
Now Jesus’ disciples had forgotten to take <n>[any]</n> food <n>[with them]</n>, and had only one loaf of bread in the boat.


text:
Then Jesus ordered them, saying, “Pay attention and watch out for the leavening <n>[effect]</n> of the Pharisees and Herod.” <n>[Note: By “Herod” is probably meant the Herodians, who were a party favorable to King Herod and, along with the Pharisees and Sadducees, were out to get Jesus. See Matt. 16:6]</n>.


text:
And they began reasoning with one another, saying, “<n>[Why be concerned about yeast since]</n> we do not have <n>[any]</n> bread?”


text:
Jesus, being aware of what they were thinking, said, “Why are you reasoning about not having any bread? Have you not yet perceived or understood? Have your hearts become insensitive?


text:
Even though you have eyes, do you not see? And even though you have ears, do you not hear? And do you not remember?


text:
When I divided the five loaves of bread among the five thousand persons, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you gather up?” They said to Him, “Twelve baskets full.”


text:
He again asked, “And when the seven loaves were divided among the four thousand persons, how many large basketfuls of broken pieces did you gather up?” And they said to Him, “Seven large basketfuls.”


text:
And when they came to Bethsaida some people brought a blind man to Jesus and begged Him to touch him <n>[i.e., for healing]</n>.


text:
<n>[So]</n>, He took hold of the blind man by his hand and brought him out of the village. When Jesus spit <n>[and put His saliva]</n> on his eyes <n>[See 7:33 for a similar use of His saliva in healing]</n> and placed His hands on him <n>[for healing]</n>, He asked him, “Can you see anything?”


text:
Then Jesus again placed His hands on his eyes; the man stared intently, then his sight was <n>[completely]</n> restored and he was able to see everything clearly.


text:
Now Jesus and His disciples went out to the villages <n>[in the vicinity]</n> of Caesarea Philippi <n>[Note: This was a city about 25 miles north of Lake Galilee]</n>. On their way, He asked His disciples, “Who are people saying that I am?”


text:
And they answered Him, “<n>[Some say]</n> you are John the Immerser; others say <n>[the prophet]</n> Elijah, but others say <n>[you are]</n> one of the prophets.”


text:
Then He asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered Him, “You are the Christ <n>[i.e., God’s specially chosen one]</n>.”


text:
Jesus then began teaching them that the Son of man must suffer very much, be rejected by the <n>[Jewish]</n> elders, leading priests, and experts in the Law of Moses and be killed, but rise again <n>[from the dead]</n> after three days.


text:
And He spoke about this freely. But Peter took Jesus aside and began rebuking Him <n>[i.e., for saying such things]</n>.


text:
But He turned around, and looking at His disciples, He rebuked Peter, saying to him, “Get away from me, Satan; for you are not thinking about God’s things but about men’s. ”


text:
And He called the crowd to Him, along with His disciples, and said to them, “If anyone wants to be my follower, he should deny himself <n>[i.e., of always having his own way]</n> and accept his cross <n>[i.e., his responsibilities, with all their difficulties]</n> and then he can become my follower.


text:
For whoever would <n>[try to]</n> save his life <n>[i.e., by neglecting spiritual things]</n> will lose it <n>[i.e., miss out on the blessings of God]</n>. But whoever <n>[is willing]</n> to lose his life <n>[i.e., in commitment to God’s service]</n> for my sake and <n>[the work of]</n> the Gospel’s sake, will save it <n>[i.e., obtain both temporal and spiritual blessings]</n>.


text:
For what would it benefit a person to gain the whole world <n>[i.e., of material things]</n> and give up his life <n>[i.e., of spiritual blessings]</n>?


text:
For whoever will be ashamed of me and of my words in this <n>[spiritually]</n> unfaithful and sinful generation, the Son of man will also be ashamed of him when He returns in the splendor of His Father, accompanied by the holy angels.”


text:
And Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, there are some people standing here who will surely not experience death until they see that God’s kingdom has come in <n>[a demonstration of]</n> power.”


text:
And after six days had passed, Jesus took Peter, James and John aside alone and went up to a high mountain <n>[i.e., probably Mt. Tabor, which was nearby]</n>. <n>[There]</n> His whole appearance was <n>[miraculously]</n> changed in front of them.


text:
His clothing became dazzling and extremely white; whiter than anyone in the world could <n>[possibly]</n> launder them.


text:
And Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi <n>[i.e., Teacher]</n>, it is good for us to be here. Let us build three small shelters, one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” <n>[See note at Matt. 17:4]</n>


text:
<n>[Just then]</n> a cloud engulfed them and a voice spoke out of the cloud saying, “This is my dearly loved Son, listen to Him.”


text:
And as they were coming down from the mountain Jesus ordered His disciples not to tell anyone what they had seen until <n>[after]</n> the Son of man was raised again from the dead.


text:
So, they kept what He told them to themselves, discussing <n>[only]</n> among themselves what “rising again from the dead” meant.


text:
Then His disciples asked Him, “Why is it, <n>[since you are obviously the Messiah]</n>, that the experts in the Law of Moses say that Elijah must come first?”


text:
Jesus answered them, “Elijah truly will come first and restore all things <n>[i.e., to their proper perspective concerning the Messiah]</n>. And it is <n>[also]</n> written <n>[in the Scriptures]</n> about the Son of man, that He would suffer very much and be rejected.


text:
But I tell you, Elijah has <n>[already]</n> come, and they did to him what they wanted to, just like it was written about him <n>[in the Scriptures]</n>.”


text:
And when Peter, James and John <n>[See verse 2]</n> returned to <n>[the rest of]</n> the disciples, they saw a large crowd gathered around them, and the experts in the Law of Moses disputing with them.


text:
And immediately, upon seeing Jesus, the entire crowd ran to greet Him in great amazement <n>[i.e., possibly over His sudden appearance]</n>.


text:
And someone in the crowd answered Him, “Teacher, I brought to you my son, who is dominated by a spirit which causes him to be a mute.


text:
Wherever it seizes him, it throws him down and he foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth and stiffens out. I spoke to your disciples, asking them to drive it out, but they were not able to.”


text:
Jesus said to them, “You generation of faithless people! How long must I be with you <n>[i.e., before you understand]</n>? How long do I have to be patient with you? Bring the sick boy to me.”


text:
Then they <n>[i.e., some people from the crowd]</n> brought the sick boy to Jesus, and when the spirit saw Him, it immediately caused the boy to have convulsions and to fall to the ground and roll around, foaming at the mouth.


text:
Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he answered, “Since he was a small child.


text:
And frequently the evil spirit has tried to kill him, throwing him into a fire or into the water. But if you can do anything <n>[for him]</n>, have pity on us and help us.”


text:
And Jesus said to him, “’If you can.’ <n>[Note: By repeating the man’s words Jesus seems to be saying, “You mean, if you can believe”]</n>. Everything is possible to the person who believes <n>[it can happen]</n>.”


text:
When Jesus saw a crowd running together <n>[toward Him]</n>, He spoke sternly to the evil spirit <n>[in the boy]</n>, saying to it, “You deaf-mute spirit, I order you to come out of this boy and to never return to him again.”


text:
The spirit shrieked and caused violent convulsions <n>[in the boy]</n>, then came out of him. The boy appeared to be dead, so that most of the people were saying, “He is dead.”


text:
And when Jesus had come into a house, His disciples asked Him privately, “Why could we not drive out the evil spirit <n>[from that boy]</n>?”


text:
For He taught His disciples, saying to them, “The Son of man will be handed over to <n>[evil]</n> men and they will kill Him, and three days after He dies He will rise up again.”


text:
Then Jesus and His disciples came to Capernaum <n>[Note: This city on the northwest shore of Lake Galilee had become sort of a headquarters for Jesus when He was in this region]</n>. When He <n>[and His disciples]</n> entered a house He asked them, “What were you discussing on the way here?”


text:
But they kept quiet for they had been arguing with one another over which one of them was the greatest.


text:
So, He sat down and called the twelve apostles and said to them, “If anyone <n>[of you]</n> should <n>[try to]</n> be first <n>[in importance]</n> he will <n>[end up]</n> being last, and become the servant of all <n>[the others]</n>.”


text:
And He took a little child and placed it in front of them, and lifting the child up into His arms, He said to them,


text:
“Whoever welcomes one such little child <n>[as this]</n> for my sake, welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me, does not welcome me <n>[only]</n>, but <n>[also]</n> the One who sent me.”


text:
<n>[Then]</n> John <n>[the apostle]</n> said to Him, “Teacher, we saw someone driving out evil spirits by using your name, so we told him to stop doing it, because he was not following <n>[You]</n> with us.”


text:
But Jesus said, “Do not try to stop him, for there is not anyone who performs a supernatural deed using my name that will be able to quickly say something bad about me.


text:
Truly I tell you, whoever will give you <n>[even]</n> a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his <n>[temporal or eternal]</n> reward.


text:
And whoever causes one of these little ones <n>[i.e., humble followers of the Lord. See Matt. 18:6]</n> who believes in me to be led astray <n>[from God]</n>, he would have been better off to have had a huge millstone tied around his neck and thrown into the ocean <n>[Note: This was a heavy, circular stone rolled over grain to crush it, and moved by an animal walking in a circle]</n>.


text:
And if your hand becomes the occasion for falling away <n>[from God]</n>, cut it off; it would be better for you to enter <n>[never ending]</n> life disabled, rather than keeping both hands and going to hell, into the fire that cannot be put out <n>[i.e., all because it caused you to fall away from God]</n>.


text:
And if your foot becomes the occasion for falling away <n>[from God]</n>, cut it off; it would be better for you to enter <n>[never ending]</n> life crippled, rather than keeping both feet and being thrown into hell.


text:
And if your eye becomes the occasion for falling away <n>[from God]</n> gouge it out; it would be better for you to enter the kingdom of God with <n>[only]</n> one eye, rather than keeping both eyes and being thrown into hell <n>[i.e., all because one of them caused you to fall away from God]</n>.


text:
For in hell the worm of those who are there will never die <n>[i.e., their gnawing punishment will never cease]</n> and the fire <n>[there]</n> will never go out.


text:
For everyone will be salted with fire. <n>[Note: This meant either the suffering “salt” of fiery trials (the sacrifices of verses 43-47) or the punishing “salt” of being thrown into a fiery hell (verse 45-48)]</n>..


text:
“Salt is good, but if it loses its salty flavor, what will you use to restore it? <n>[i.e., it is difficult to restore the “salt” of sacrificial commitment to God once it is lost]</n>. You should have salt in yourselves <n>[i.e., develop the qualities of preserving, purifying commitment to God]</n>, and live peacefully with one another <n>[i.e., instead of in rivalry. See 9:33-34]</n>.”


text:
And Jesus left there and went to the region of Judea and east of the Jordan River. Again crowds gathered around Him and He continued teaching them, as was His custom.


text:
Some Pharisees <n>[i.e., a strict sect of the Jewish religion]</n> came to Him <n>[and attempted]</n> to test Him by asking, “Is it permissible by the Law of Moses for a man to divorce his wife?”


text:
They replied, “Moses allowed us to provide a legal divorce decree and <n>[then]</n> to divorce her.”


text:
But Jesus said to them, “He wrote you this commandment <n>[only]</n> because of the rebellious spirit of you <n>[Jews]</n>.


text:
For this reason <n>[i.e., since he made one woman for one man]</n> a man will leave <n>[the home of]</n> his father and mother and will cling to his wife


text:
and the two of them will <n>[then]</n> become one flesh <n>[i.e., united in such a close relationship as to constitute one body]</n>, so that <n>[upon becoming husband and wife]</n> they no longer function as two persons but as one body.


text:
Therefore, those whom God so joins together <n>[in the marriage bond]</n>, no person must ever separate.”


text:
And He said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another <n>[woman]</n> commits sexual unfaithfulness <n>[toward her]</n>.


text:
And if she herself divorces her husband and marries another <n>[man]</n>, she commits sexual unfaithfulness <n>[toward him]</n>.”


text:
Then some <n>[parents]</n> were bringing <n>[their]</n> little children to Jesus so He could touch them <n>[i.e., to bestow a blessing on them]</n>, but His disciples spoke harshly to these parents <n>[for doing this]</n>.


text:
But when Jesus saw it, He was moved with <n>[righteous]</n> indignation, and said to them, “Allow these little children to come to me and stop trying to prevent them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such <n>[humble ones. See Matt. 18:4]</n>.


text:
Truly I tell you, whoever does not welcome the kingdom of God as a little child does, that person will by no means enter it.”


text:
Then He lifted up the children into His arms, and placing His hands on them, He asked God’s blessing on them.


text:
As Jesus was leaving to go on His way, a man ran to Him and kneeled down in front of Him and asked, “Good Teacher, what should I do in order to possess never ending life?”


text:
You know the commandments: Do not murder. Do not be sexually unfaithful to your mate. Do not steal. Do not give false testimony. Do not cheat. Show honor to your father and mother.”


text:
And he replied, “Teacher, I have <n>[already]</n> been observing all these commandments since I was a young lad.”


text:
And Jesus looked at him, and filled with love, said to him, “There is one thing you <n>[still]</n> lack. Go and sell your possessions and give <n>[the money]</n> to poor people; become my follower, then you will have treasure in heaven.”


text:
But the man had a sad look on his face when he heard these words, and went away sorrowful, for he had many possessions.


text:
Then Jesus looked around Him and said to His disciples, “How difficult it is for rich people to enter the kingdom of God!”


text:
And His disciples were amazed at what He said. But Jesus spoke to them again and said, “How difficult it is <n>[for anyone]</n> to enter the kingdom of God!


text:
It is <n>[actually]</n> easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.”


text:
Jesus looked at them and said, “This would be impossible with men, but not with God, for everything is possible with God.”


text:
Peter began saying to Him, “Look, we have left everything <n>[i.e., homes, jobs, family, etc.]</n> to follow you.”


text:
Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, no one who has left his house, or brothers, or sisters, or mother, or father, or children or property for my sake and the Gospel’s sake <n>[i.e., to become a servant of the Lord]</n>,


text:
but what he will receive <n>[back]</n> a hundred times as much now in this life --- houses, and brothers, and sisters, and mothers, and children and property --- <n>[yet]</n> with persecutions. And in the coming age <n>[he will receive]</n> never ending life.


text:
But many that <n>[appear to]</n> be first <n>[i.e., in importance and blessings]</n> will <n>[end up]</n> being last. And <n>[those appearing to]</n> be last will <n>[end up]</n> being first.”


text:
Now Jesus and His disciples were <n>[traveling]</n> along the road, going up to Jerusalem, with Jesus moving on ahead of the others. The disciples were amazed and they followed <n>[behind Him]</n> fearfully. <n>[Note: From the context, it appears their amazement was due to His eagerness to enter Jerusalem in spite of the imminent danger they felt awaited Him there]</n>. He took the twelve apostles aside and began telling them about the things that were going to happen to Him.


text:
He said, “Look, we are going up to Jerusalem and the Son of man will be turned over to the leading priests and experts in the Law of Moses. They will condemn Him to death and turn Him over to the <n>[unconverted]</n> Gentiles.


text:
They will mock Him, and spit on Him, and whip Him and <n>[finally]</n> kill Him, but after three days He will rise again <n>[from the dead]</n>.”


text:
Now James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came over to Jesus and said to Him, “We would like you to do for us whatever we ask you.”


text:
They answered Him, “Appoint one of us to sit at your right side and the other at your left side <n>[when you come]</n> in splendor.”


text:
But Jesus said to them, “You <n>[really]</n> do not know what you are asking for. Are you able to drink the cup <n>[i.e., of suffering]</n> that I will drink? Or <n>[are you able]</n> to be immersed with the immersion that I am <n>[to be]</n> immersed with? <n>[i.e., to be overwhelmed with agony]</n>.”


text:
And they said to Him, “<n>[Yes]</n>, we are able to.” And Jesus said to them, “The cup <n>[of suffering]</n> that I <n>[will]</n> drink, you <n>[also]</n> will drink. And the immersion <n>[with agony]</n> with which I am <n>[to be]</n> immersed, you <n>[also]</n> will be immersed.


text:
But it is not my prerogative to appoint who sits at my right side and at my left, but <n>[those places]</n> are for people to whom it has been assigned <n>[by the Father]</n>.”


text:
Jesus called them <n>[i.e., probably all twelve apostles]</n> to Him and said, “You are aware that those who are regarded as rulers among the <n>[unconverted]</n> Gentiles lord it over their own people, and their important men domineer over them <n>[as well]</n>.


text:
But it is not <n>[to be]</n> this way among you, for whoever would like to become important among you will be your servant.


text:
For the Son of man did not come to be served <n>[by others]</n> but to be the servant <n>[of others]</n>, and to sacrifice His life as a ransom price for many people <n>[i.e., to purchase them back from Satan]</n>.”


text:
Then they <n>[i.e., Jesus and the twelve apostles]</n> came to Jericho <n>[Note: This was a town about 18 miles northeast of Jerusalem]</n>. As He left there with His disciples and a large crowd, they met a blind beggar named Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sitting along side the road.


text:
When he heard that it was Jesus from Nazareth <n>[passing by]</n>, he began shouting, “Jesus, son of David, have pity on me.”


text:
Many people spoke harshly to the blind man, telling him to be quiet. But he shouted all the more <n>[loudly]</n>, “Son of David, have pity on me.”


text:
So, Jesus stopped and said, “Call that man <n>[to me]</n>.” Then the crowd called the blind man, saying to him, “Cheer up, Jesus is calling you.”


text:
Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” And the blind man answered, “Rabboni <n>[i.e., Teacher]</n>, I want to have my sight restored.”


text:
And Jesus said to him, “Go on your way, your faith <n>[in me]</n> has made you well.” And immediately his sight was restored, and he began following Jesus along the road.


text:
And when they <n>[all]</n> approached Jerusalem, and came close to Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives <n>[Note: These small villages were about two miles east of Jerusalem]</n>, He sent two of His disciples on ahead,


text:
saying to them, “Go into the village just ahead of you and, upon entering it, you will find tied up <n>[there]</n> a colt that no one has ever ridden; untie it and bring it here.


text:
And if anyone says to you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ you should say, ‘The Lord needs it,’ and immediately he will send it back here.”


text:
So, they went away and found a <n>[donkey’s]</n> colt tied up at the gate, outside in the street, and untied it.


text:
Many people spread their clothing on the roadway, while others spread leafy branches, which they had cut from the fields.


text:
And the people who walked ahead of Him and followed behind shouted, “Hosanna <n>[Note: The Syriac word ‘Hosanna’ originally meant ‘save now’ but came to be used as an expression of welcome, praise, blessing or acclamation]</n>, may He who comes in the name <n>[i.e., by the authority]</n> of the Lord, be blessed.


text:
May the coming kingdom of our forefather David be blessed. Hosanna in the highest <n>[i.e., may this blessing reach to the highest heaven]</n>.”


text:
Then Jesus entered the Temple in Jerusalem, and after looking around at everything <n>[there]</n>, He left for Bethany with the twelve apostles, since it was evening by then. <n>[Note: Jesus stayed overnight at Bethany during the week prior to His crucifixion. See verse 19]</n>.


text:
Upon seeing in the distance a leafy fig tree, He approached it in hope of finding something on it <n>[to eat]</n>. But when He got there He found nothing but leaves on it, for it was not the season for figs <n>[yet]</n>.


text:
Therefore, He said to the tree, “From now on no one will ever eat fruit from you.” Now His disciples heard Him say this.


text:
Then they entered Jerusalem and Jesus went into the Temple and began to drive out those who bought and sold <n>[animals for sacrifice]</n>. He upset the tables of the cashiers <n>[i.e., those who exchanged foreign coins]</n> and the benches of those who sold pigeons <n>[for sacrifices]</n>.


text:
And He would not <n>[even]</n> allow anyone to carry a container <n>[of goods]</n> through the Temple <n>[area]</n>.


text:
Then He taught them, saying, “Is it not written <n>[Isa. 56:7]</n>, ‘My house <n>[i.e., the Temple]</n> will be called a house of prayer for people of all nations’? But <n>[Jer. 7:11 says]</n>, ‘You have made it a hideout for thieves.’”


text:
The leading priests and experts in the Law of Moses heard this and began looking for some way to kill Jesus, because they were afraid of Him, since the whole crowd was amazed at His teaching.


text:
The next morning, <n>[as they returned to the city]</n>, they passed by the fig tree and saw that it had withered, clear down to its roots.


text:
Then Peter remembered <n>[what Jesus had done to the fig tree on a recent occasion]</n>, and said to Him, “Rabbi <n>[i.e., Teacher]</n>, look, the fig tree you cursed <n>[the other day]</n> has withered up.”


text:
Truly I tell you, whoever will say to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and thrown into the ocean’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he said will happen, he will have his request granted.


text:
Therefore I tell you, whatever things you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received them, and you will have every one of them.


text:
And whenever you stand praying, forgive whatever <n>[grievance]</n> you might have against anyone, so that your Father in heaven will also forgive you of your sins.”


text:
Jesus and His disciples again came to Jerusalem. As He was walking in the Temple <n>[area]</n> the leading priests, experts in the Law of Moses and <n>[Jewish]</n> elders came to Him


text:
and said, “By what authority are you doing these things <n>[i.e., miracles and teaching]</n>? Or who gave you the authority to do these things?”


text:
Jesus answered them; “Let me ask you a question. And if you answer it, then I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things.


text:
So, they discussed this among themselves, saying, “If we say ‘from heaven’ He will say to us, ‘Then why did you not believe his message?’


text:
But, should we say ‘from men’ <n>[instead]</n>?” Now they feared the people, for all of them considered John to be a true prophet.


text:
So, they answered Jesus and said, “We do not know <n>[where John got his authority to immerse]</n>.” Jesus replied to them, “<n>[Then]</n> neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things <n>[i.e., miracles and teaching]</n>.”


text:
Jesus began speaking to them <n>[i.e., to the leading priests and experts in the Law of Moses (See 11:18) or, to the people (See Luke 20:19)]</n> by using parables. He said, “A man planted a vineyard and built a fence around it. He dug a place for constructing a grape squeezing device, built a <n>[lookout]</n> tower <n>[near it]</n>, then leased it out to tenant farmers and went to another country.


text:
And when the <n>[grape harvest]</n> season came, the owner of the farm sent a slave to the tenant farmers asking them to deliver the grape crop <n>[to him]</n>.


text:
Again the owner of the farm sent another slave, whom they wounded in the head and shamefully abused.


text:
He sent <n>[still]</n> another slave, whom they killed. He continued sending many more slaves; they beat some and killed others.


text:
The owner had one more person <n>[left to send]</n>, his dearly loved son. <n>[So]</n> he sent him to them last of all, reasoning to himself, ‘<n>[Surely]</n> they will treat my son with respect.’


text:
But the tenant farmers said to one another, ‘This is the heir <n>[to the vineyard]</n>. Come on, let us kill him and then the inheritance will be ours.’


text:
What do you think the owner of the vineyard will do <n>[when he gets back]</n>?” Jesus asked. <n>[Then He continued]</n>, “He will come and kill those tenant farmers and give the vineyard to other people.


text:
Have you never read this Scripture <n>[Psa. 118:22- 23]</n>, ‘The building block rejected by the builders is the same <n>[one]</n> that was made the principal stone by which the entire building was aligned.


text:
And they <n>[i.e., the leading priests and experts in the Law of Moses]</n> attempted to arrest Jesus, but <n>[hesitated because]</n> they feared what the crowd might do, for they understood that He was speaking the parable against them. So, they left Him and went away.


text:
Then the Pharisees sent certain ones of their number <n>[See Matt. 22:15-16]</n> along with the Herodians <n>[Note: This refers to members of a political party favoring King Herod]</n> to attempt to trap Him by what He said.


text:
And when they arrived, they said to Him, “Teacher, we know that you are sincere, and <n>[that you]</n> do not care for <n>[i.e., do not fear or give in to]</n> anyone. For you do not allow <n>[the position of]</n> any person to influence you, but teach the truth about God’s way. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?


text:
Should we pay it, or should we not pay it?” But Jesus was aware of their hypocrisy and said to them, “Bring me the coin so I can see it.” <n>[Note: The amount of this coin was equivalent to one twelve-hour day of a farm laborer’s pay, or about $108 in 2005]</n>.


text:
So, they brought it to Him and He said to them, “Whose image and inscription <n>[are on this coin]</n>?” And they answered Him, “Caesar’s.”


text:
Then Jesus replied to them, “Pay to Caesar whatever belongs to Caesar and pay to God whatever belongs to God.” And they greatly marveled at Him.


text:
Then some Sadducees, <n>[the ones]</n> who say there is no resurrection <n>[of the dead]</n>, came and asked Him,


text:
“Teacher, Moses wrote to us <n>[Deut. 25:5]</n> that if a man’s brother dies, leaving his widow behind without having had any children, his brother should marry his widow and father children by her. These children would then be considered his <n>[dead]</n> brother’s.


text:
<n>[Now]</n> there were <n>[these]</n> seven brothers; the first one got married, but when he died he left no children behind.


text:
So, the second one married his widow, and at his death he too left no children behind. Then the third one did the same thing.


text:
<n>[Now]</n> whose wife will she be in the resurrected state, for all seven <n>[brothers]</n> were married to her?”


text:
Jesus said to them, “Is not this the reason that you are <n>[so]</n> mistaken, that you do not know <n>[what]</n> the Scriptures <n>[teach]</n> or <n>[how much]</n> power God has?


text:
For when people rise from the dead, men do not get married, and women are not given away in marriage, but <n>[all]</n> are like angels in heaven.


text:
But concerning those who are raised from the dead, have you never read in the book of Moses, in the incident about the bush, how God spoke to him, saying <n>[Ex. 3:6]</n>, ‘I am Abraham’s God, and Isaac’s God, and Jacob’s God?’


text:
<n>[So]</n>, He is not God to those who are dead, but <n>[He is]</n> God to those who are alive. You are seriously mistaken.”


text:
Then one of the experts in the Law of Moses <n>[Note: Matt. 22:34 identifies him as being a Pharisee also]</n>, came and heard Jesus and the Sadducees discussing together <n>[i.e., the subject of the resurrection]</n>, and knowing that Jesus had refuted the Sadducees successfully, asked Him, “Which commandment is foremost, above all the others?”


text:
And Jesus answered, “The foremost one is this <n>[Deut. 6:4-5]</n>, ‘Hear this, you Israelites, the Lord our God is the only Lord,


text:
and you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength.’


text:
The second one is this; ‘You must love your neighbor the same way that you love yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these <n>[i.e., love for God and man]</n>.”


text:
The expert in the Law of Moses said to Jesus, “Truly, Teacher, you are right in saying that God is <n>[the only]</n> one and that there is no other God but Him.


text:
And that to love Him with all one’s heart, with all one’s understanding, and with all one’s strength, and to love one’s neighbor the same way he loves himself, are far more <n>[important]</n> than all the burnt offerings and sacrifices <n>[in the world]</n>.”


text:
When Jesus saw that this man answered wisely, He said to him, “You are not <n>[very]</n> far from the kingdom of God.” And after that, no one dared to ask Him any more questions.


text:
As Jesus was teaching in the Temple, He responded <n>[to some Pharisees. See Matt. 22:41]</n> by asking, “How is it that the experts in the Law of Moses can say that the Christ is the son of David?


text:
<n>[It was]</n> David himself <n>[who]</n> said by <n>[inspiration of]</n> the Holy Spirit <n>[Psa. 110:1]</n>, ‘The Lord <n>[i.e., God]</n> said to my <n>[i.e., David’s]</n> Lord <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n>, sit at my right side until I make your enemies the footrest <n>[i.e., in subjection]</n> under your feet.’


text:
<n>[Since]</n> David himself called Him <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n> Lord, how could He be his son?” And the large crowd listened to Him with pleasure.


text:
In His teaching Jesus said, “Look out for the experts in the Law of Moses, who like to walk around in long <n>[flowing]</n> robes and to receive special greetings at the open shopping markets


text:
They consume widows’ houses <n>[i.e., by foreclosing on them]</n> and <n>[then]</n> cover it up by offering lengthy prayers. These people will receive a more severe judgment.”


text:
Then Jesus sat down over near the <n>[Temple]</n> treasury and watched how the crowd was throwing money into the treasury <n>[Note: This “treasury” was a large open-mouthed container used for receiving offerings for meeting expenses of Temple upkeep]</n>. Many rich people were throwing in lots of money.


text:
A poor widow came and threw in two small copper coins <n>[Note: These two coins each amounted to about ten minutes’ worth of a farm laborer’s pay, or about $1.50 in 2005]</n>. The total she gave was equivalent to a larger coin <n>[i.e., worth twice as much]</n>.


text:
Jesus called His disciples to Him and said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has thrown in more than all the rest who are throwing <n>[money]</n> into the treasury.


text:
For all of them threw in from their abundance, but being very poor, she threw in everything she had, even all she had to live on.”


text:
As Jesus left the Temple, one of His disciples said to Him, “Teacher, look at the kind of stones these buildings are made of!”


text:
And Jesus responded to him, “Do you see these huge buildings? There will not be one stone left on another here that will not be thrown down.”


text:
As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, over near the Temple, Peter, James, John and Andrew asked Him privately,


text:
“Tell us, when will these things <n>[you just spoke of]</n> happen? And what will be the sign <n>[that indicates]</n> when all these things are about to be fulfilled?”


text:
Then Jesus began saying to them, “Pay attention so that no one leads you astray <n>[i.e., from the truth]</n>.


text:
<n>[For]</n> many <n>[false teachers]</n> will come, claiming to be me, and saying, ‘I am <n>[the Christ]</n> and they will lead many people astray.


text:
And when you hear of wars <n>[going on]</n> and rumors of <n>[other]</n> wars <n>[pending]</n>, do not worry, for such things must necessarily happen. But the end has not yet come. <n>[Note: By “the end” here Jesus probably alludes to the downfall of Jerusalem in AD 70, with its attending destruction of the Temple buildings]</n>.


text:
For nations will wage war against one another, and kingdoms will attack one another. And earthquakes will happen at various places <n>[in the world]</n>, and there will be famines. These things are <n>[only]</n> the beginning of terrible times.


text:
“But pay attention to yourselves, for people will turn you over to <n>[Jewish]</n> councils <n>[i.e., for judgment]</n> and you will be beaten in synagogues. You will stand trial before governors and kings for being loyal to me. <n>[This will afford you an opportunity]</n> for witnessing to them.


text:
And when they lead you into court, and hand you over <n>[to be judged]</n>, do not worry ahead of time about what you will say, but <n>[just]</n> say whatever you are told <n>[i.e., by God]</n> when the time comes.


text:
And <n>[at that time]</n> a person will turn his brother over to be killed, and the father will do the same to his child. And children will rebel against their parents and will turn them over to be killed.


text:
You will be hated by all people because you belong to me, but the person who holds out <n>[i.e., remains faithful to God]</n> until the end <n>[i.e., the end of this time of severe persecution]</n> will be saved <n>[from destruction]</n>.


text:
`But when you see that disgusting thing that causes total destruction <n>[i.e., the Roman army. See Luke 21:20]</n> standing where it ought not to be <n>[i.e., surrounding the besieged city of Jerusalem]</n>, (let the reader understand <n>[what is meant by this]</n>), then those of you in Judea are to run away into the <n>[nearby]</n> mountains.


text:
Also the person who is on a housetop <n>[Note: This was a flat area where people retired for rest, prayer, etc., with its stairway on the outside]</n> should not go down into his house to take anything out <n>[when he flees]</n>.


text:
The person who is in a field <n>[i.e., doing farm work]</n> should not return <n>[to his house]</n> to get his coat <n>[even]</n>.


text:
<n>[It will be]</n> too bad for those who are pregnant and those who are nursing babies in those days.


text:
There will be great trouble during those days, such as had never been from the beginning of God’s creation until the present, or even will be <n>[in the days to come]</n>.


text:
And if the Lord had not kept those days as short as they were, no one would have been saved <n>[i.e., from the devastating destruction]</n>. But for the sake of the elect <n>[i.e., God’s people]</n>, whom He chose, He kept those days short.


text:
For false christs and false prophets will appear and they will perform <n>[miraculous]</n> signs and <n>[supernatural]</n> wonders in order to lead astray <n>[even]</n> the elect, if possible.


text:
`But after those days of terrible trouble <n>[i.e., the next major event on God’s calendar will be]</n>, the sun will become dark, and <n>[therefore]</n> the moon will not <n>[be able to]</n> shed its <n>[reflected]</n> light,


text:
and the stars will be falling from the sky and the forces of the heavens will be shaken. <n>[Note: From the description of these same events in Luke 21:25-26, it is possible that this is figurative language for great calamities happening on earth]</n>.


text:
And He will send out His angels and gather His elect <n>[i.e., God’s people]</n> from all directions, from the farthest part of the earth to the farthest part of the sky <n>[i.e., from throughout the whole world]</n>.


text:
“Now learn this parable from the fig tree. When its tender sprouts appear and its leaves begin to develop, you know that summer is near.


text:
In the same way also, when you see these things happening, you <n>[should]</n> know that He <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n> is as near as your <n>[front]</n> door.


text:
Although the sky and the earth will pass away <n>[See II Pet. 3:10]</n>, my words will not pass away <n>[i.e., they will certainly come true]</n>.


text:
But no one knows when that day or that hour will come; not even the angels in heaven or the Son of God know, but only the Father does.


text:
“You should pay attention; be alert and pray, for you do not know when the time will come <n>[i.e., for the Lord to return]</n>.


text:
It is like a man who left his house on a trip to another country. <n>[Before leaving]</n> he put his servants in charge of his affairs, giving each one a <n>[particular]</n> job to do, then he ordered the gatekeeper to stay alert <n>[i.e., while he was gone]</n>.


text:
So, be alert, because you do not know when the owner of the house will return, whether <n>[some]</n> evening, at midnight, at dawn, or at <n>[mid-]</n> morning.


text:
Now the Passover Festival and the Festival of Unleavened Bread were held two days later. <n>[Note: This was the annual Jewish Festival week commemorating Israel’s deliverance from Egyptian bondage under Moses’ leadership. The unleavened bread was specially baked to contain no yeast, and was eaten for seven days as part of the celebration]</n>. And the leading priests and experts in the Law of Moses were looking for a way to take Jesus by trickery and kill Him.


text:
But they reasoned, “We will not <n>[take him]</n> during the Festival, because it might start a riot among the people.”


text:
And while Jesus was in Bethany <n>[Note: This was a small village fewer than two miles east of Jerusalem]</n>, sitting at the dinner table in the house of Simon, the man with an infectious skin disease <n>[Note: This man had probably been healed by now]</n>, a woman with an alabaster <n>[i.e., stone]</n> jar of very expensive perfume came to Him, broke the jar and poured the perfume on His head.


text:
But some <n>[of the disciples. See Matt. 26:8]</n> were upset among themselves, saying, “What is the reason for wasting this perfume?


text:
It might have been sold for a large sum of money and the money given to poor people.” <n>[Note: The amount indicated here was equivalent to 300 twelve-hour days of a farm laborer’s pay, or over $32,000 in 2005]</n>. And they complained about her <n>[doing this]</n>.


text:
But Jesus said, “Let her alone. Why are you bothering this woman? For she has done a kind deed to me.


text:
You will always have poor people with you, and you can do something good for them whenever you want to, but you will not always have me with you.


text:
She has done what she could. She has applied this aromatic oil to my body in anticipation of my burial.


text:
For truly I tell you, wherever the Gospel message will be preached throughout the whole world, what this woman has done <n>[for me]</n> will <n>[also]</n> be told about as a memorial of her <n>[kindness to me]</n>.”


text:
Now Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve apostles, left and went to the leading priests in order to make arrangements for turning Jesus over to them.


text:
And when they <n>[i.e., the leading priests]</n> realized this, they were very pleased and promised to give him money. So, Judas began looking for a convenient way to turn Jesus over to these Jewish leaders.


text:
Now on the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread <n>[i.e., the beginning of the Passover Festival week]</n>, when they sacrificed the Passover <n>[lamb]</n>, Jesus’ disciples said to Him, “Where do you want us to go to make preparations for you to eat the Passover meal?”


text:
So, He sent two of His disciples, saying to them, “Go into the city <n>[of Jerusalem]</n> and there a man carrying a pitcher of water will meet you; follow him.


text:
And wherever he enters a house <n>[follow him inside and]</n> say to the owner, ‘The Teacher says, where is my guest room where I can eat the Passover meal with my disciples?’


text:
And the owner himself will show you a large upstairs room all furnished and ready. Make preparations for us there <n>[i.e., to observe the Passover meal]</n>.”


text:
So, the disciples left and entered the city <n>[of Jerusalem]</n>. They found everything just as Jesus told them <n>[it would be]</n>, and they made preparations for the Passover meal.


text:
As they reclined at the table to eat, <n>[Note: See Matt. 23:6]</n> Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, one of you who is eating with me will turn me over <n>[i.e., to the Jewish leaders]</n>.”


text:
And He answered them, “It is one of you twelve, <n>[the one]</n> who is dipping <n>[his bread]</n> with me in the <n>[sauce]</n> bowl.


text:
For the Son of man is going <n>[to die]</n>, but it is too bad for that person who will turn me over to the Jewish leaders! It would be better for that man if he had not been born.”


text:
And as they were eating He took a <n>[small]</n> loaf of bread, and when He had asked God’s blessing on it, He broke it and gave <n>[pieces]</n> to His disciples and said, “Take this, it is <n>[i.e., represents]</n> my <n>[physical]</n> body.”


text:
Then He took a cup <n>[i.e., possibly containing wine made from fresh or preserved grape juice]</n>, and when He had given thanks to God, He passed it to them and they all drank from it.


text:
And He said to them, “This is <n>[i.e., represents]</n> my blood of the Agreement <n>[i.e., between God and mankind]</n> which is <n>[to be]</n> poured out for many people.


text:
Truly I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine <n>[i.e., grape juice]</n> any more until that day when I will drink it again <n>[i.e., figuratively]</n> in the kingdom of God.”


text:
Then Jesus said to His disciples, “All of you will have doubts about me, for it is written <n>[Zech. 13:7]</n>, ‘I will strike down the shepherd and the sheep will be scattered everywhere.’


text:
And Jesus said to him, “Truly I tell you, today, in fact this very night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny <n>[knowing]</n> me three times.”


text:
But Peter kept insisting emphatically, “Even if I have to die with you, still I will not deny <n>[knowing]</n> you.” And all the rest of the disciples spoke the same way.


text:
Jesus and His disciples came to a place called Gethsemene <n>[Note: This was an olive orchard on a hillside just east of Jerusalem]</n>. He said to His disciples, “You sit here while I <n>[go away and]</n> pray.”


text:
He said to them, “My soul is extremely grieved, even to the point where I could die. Stay here and be alert <n>[i.e., in prayer]</n>.”


text:
And He went on ahead a short distance and fell to the ground and prayed for that hour <n>[i.e., that time of terrible grief]</n> to pass away from Him, if it were at all possible.


text:
So, He said, “Abba, <n>[which means]</n> Father, everything is possible with you. Take this cup <n>[i.e., of suffering]</n> away from me; however, let it not be what I want but what you want for me.”


text:
And when He came back and found His disciples sleeping He said to Peter, “Simon, are you sleeping? Could you not stay alert <n>[in prayer]</n> for one hour?


text:
Be alert and pray, so that you do not give in to temptation. The spirit of a person is truly willing <n>[i.e., to do a certain thing]</n>, but his physical nature is <n>[often]</n> too weak <n>[to carry it out]</n>.”


text:
Then He came back again and found His disciples still asleep, because they had not been able to keep their eyes open at all.


text:
And He came back a third time and said to them, “<n>[You might as well]</n> Go ahead and sleep now and get your rest. That is enough; the time has come. See, the Son of man is about to be turned over into the hands of sinners.


text:
Get up, let us be going. Look, the one who will turn me over <n>[i.e., to the Jewish leaders]</n> is nearby.”


text:
And immediately, as Jesus was still speaking, Judas, one of the twelve apostles came with a crowd who were carrying swords and clubs. <n>[They had come]</n> from the leading priests, the experts in the Law of Moses and the <n>[Jewish]</n> elders.


text:
Now the one who turned Him over to the Jewish leaders <n>[i.e., Judas]</n> had given them a signal, saying, “Whoever I give a kiss <n>[of greeting]</n> to, he is the one; arrest him and lead him away under guard.”


text:
And when Judas came, immediately he went to Jesus and said, “Rabbi,” and then kissed Him <n>[enthusiastically]</n>.


text:
But a certain disciple who was standing nearby <n>[i.e., Peter. See John 18:10]</n> drew his sword and struck the head priest’s servant <n>[i.e., Malchus. See John 18:10]</n>, shearing off his ear.


text:
Then Jesus said to them, “Have you come out to arrest me with swords and clubs like you would a thief?


text:
I was with you every day, teaching in the Temple, and you did not <n>[come to]</n> take me. But this has happened so that the Scriptures would be fulfilled.”


text:
And a certain young man <n>[Note: Some think this is a reference to Mark himself]</n>, who had a linen outer garment thrown over his scantily clad body, was following Jesus until they <n>[i.e., the soldiers and officers]</n> took hold of him. <n>[Note: The wording here does not indicate total nakedness, but rather the wearing of underclothing only]</n>


text:
Then they led Jesus away to the head priest, and all the leading priests, <n>[Jewish]</n> elders and experts in the Law of Moses came together with Him.


text:
But Peter had followed Him from a distance, right into the courtyard of the head priest. He was sitting there with the <n>[Jewish]</n> officers, warming himself by the light of the fire.


text:
Now the leading priests and the entire Council <n>[called the “Sanhedrin”]</n> were looking for <n>[false]</n> witnesses to testify against Jesus in order to put Him to death, but did not find any.


text:
“We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this Temple, which was constructed by hand, and in three days I will build another one, not made by hand.’”


text:
The head priest stood up in front of them and asked Jesus, “Do you not have anything to answer? What about this charge being made against you by these people?”


text:
But Jesus kept quiet and did not give them any answer. Again the head priest asked Him, “Are you the Christ <n>[i.e., God’s specially chosen one]</n>?”


text:
And Jesus answered, “Yes, I am; and you will see the Son of man sitting at the right side of Power <n>[i.e., God, Himself]</n>, and coming on the clouds of the sky.”


text:
And the head priest tore at his clothing <n>[i.e., as an expression of frustration]</n> and said, “What additional need do we have for witnesses?


text:
You <n>[yourselves]</n> have heard him speaking against God. What do you people think <n>[i.e., about such statements]</n>?” And they all condemned Him as deserving the death penalty.


text:
And some of them began to spit on Him, then to cover His face <n>[with a blindfold]</n> and hit Him <n>[with their fists]</n>, saying, “Prophesy <n>[i.e., tell who hit you]</n>.” And the officers in charge of Him also struck Him with their hands.


text:
Now when Peter was in the courtyard downstairs <n>[i.e., from where the Sanhedrin was having its meeting. See verse 55]</n>, one of the head priest’s servant girls came in,


text:
and seeing Peter warming himself by the fire, she looked at him and said, “You were with Jesus from Nazareth, too.”


text:
But he denied it, saying, “I do not know or understand what you are talking about.” Then he went out onto the porch and the rooster crowed.


text:
When the servant girl saw him <n>[there]</n>, she again began saying to those nearby, “This man is one of them <n>[i.e., a disciple of Jesus]</n>.”


text:
But again he denied it. Then after a little while those standing nearby said to Peter again, “We know for sure that you are one of them because you are from Galilee.” <n>[Note: Peter’s accent gave him away. See Matt. 26:73]</n>.


text:
Immediately the rooster crowed for the second time and Peter was reminded of the words of Jesus, who had said to him, “You will deny <n>[knowing]</n> me three times before the rooster crows twice.” And as he thought about this, he cried.


text:
As soon as it was morning the leading priests, along with the <n>[Jewish]</n> elders and experts in the Law of Moses and the entire Council, held a conference. Then they tied Jesus up, led Him away and turned Him over to Pilate <n>[the Roman governor]</n>.


text:
So, Pilate again asked Him, “Do you not have any answer? Look at how many charges they are bringing against you.”


text:
One prisoner, named Barabbas, was kept chained up in prison along with men who had committed murder during a rebellion.


text:
The crowd <n>[then]</n> went to Pilate and asked him to do what he was accustomed to doing for them <n>[i.e., release a prisoner of their choosing during the Passover Festival]</n>.


text:
But the leading priests stirred up the crowd to insist that Pilate release Barabbas to them instead.


text:
<n>[So]</n>, Pilate again asked them, “Then what shall I do to this one you call the king of the Jews?”


text:
And Pilate said to them, “Why <n>[should we]</n>; what wrong has he done?” But they shouted out even louder, “Crucify him.”


text:
So Pilate, wanting to satisfy the crowd, released Barabbas to them, and after he had Jesus flogged, he turned Him over to be crucified.


text:
Then the soldiers led Jesus away to the courtyard of the governor’s headquarters, where they assembled the entire battalion.


text:
They placed a purple robe on Him <n>[Note: Matt. 27:28 calls this a “scarlet” robe. In that day, any color with a mixture of “red” in it was often called “purple”]</n>, and making a wreath out of thorns, they placed it on His head.


text:
They beat His head with a stick, spat on Him, knelt down before Him and <n>[mockingly]</n> worshiped Him.


text:
And when they had mocked Him, they took the purple robe off of Him and put His own clothing <n>[back]</n> on Him. Then they led Him out to crucify Him.


text:
They forced a passerby, named Simon of Cyrene <n>[Note: This was a city in the northern African country of Libya]</n>, the father of Alexander and Rufus, who was coming in from the countryside, to go with them so he could carry Jesus’ cross <n>[i.e., probably only the cross-beam portion]</n>.


text:
Then they brought Jesus to the place called Golgotha which, being interpreted, means “the place of the skull” <n>[i.e., probably because it was a skull-shaped knoll in appearance]</n>.


text:
They offered Him wine, mixed with aromatic spices, but He refused to accept it. <n>[Note: Matt. 27:34 calls this “gall,” a bitter drug for the purpose of dulling the pain of crucifixion]</n>.


text:
So, they crucified Him and divided His clothing by gambling for them to decide what each soldier would get.


text:
It was nine o’clock in the morning and they crucified Him. <n>[Note: John 19:14 indicates that the crucifixion took place about noon. This can be harmonized if we take Mark’s account to mean when the entire process began]</n>.


text:
The inscription, stating the charge against Him, was attached above His head <n>[i.e., to the upright portion of the cross]</n>. It read, “The king of the Jews.”


text:
Some ancient manuscripts add verse “And the Scripture was fulfilled, which said, ‘He was counted with the lawbreakers.’”


text:
And those who passed by the cross shouted abuse at Him and shook their heads <n>[in derision]</n>, saying, “Ha, you who said you would destroy the Temple and rebuild it in three days,


text:
In the same way, the leading priests also mocked Him among themselves, along with the experts in the Law of Moses, saying, “He saved other people, now he cannot even save himself.


text:
This ‘Christ, the king of Israel,’ let him now come down from the cross so we can see it and believe in him.” And the thieves who were being crucified with Him also spoke abusively to Him.


text:
And when it became noon there was darkness over the entire land until three o’clock in the afternoon.


text:
Then at three o’clock Jesus shouted in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lama, sabachthani” <n>[Note: These words were in the commonly spoken Aramaic language]</n>, which being interpreted, means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”


text:
Then one of the soldiers ran and filled a sponge full of sour wine, put it on a stick and gave it to Him to drink, saying, “Let him alone; let us see if Elijah comes to take him down <n>[from the cross]</n>.”


text:
And when the military officer in charge of one hundred men, who was standing in front of Jesus, saw Him die like that, he said, “Truly this man was the Son of God.”


text:
And there were also some women watching all this from a distance. Among them were Mary from Magdala; Mary the mother of the younger James and <n>[his brother]</n> Joseph <n>[i.e., probably the wife of Clopas. See John 19:25]</n>; and Salome <n>[i.e., the mother of James and John and wife of Zebedee. See Matt. 27:56]</n>.


text:
These women had ministered to Jesus’ needs when they followed Him from Galilee. Others watching were many women who had come up to Jerusalem with Him.


text:
When evening had come, and since it was the day of Preparation <n>[for the Passover Festival]</n>, being the day before the <n>[special]</n> Sabbath Day,


text:
Joseph, from Arimathea, a highly respected member of the <n>[Jewish]</n> Council, who was expecting the kingdom of God, went boldly to Pilate <n>[i.e., the Roman appointed governor]</n> and asked <n>[him]</n> for the body of Jesus.


text:
Pilate was amazed that Jesus had already died, and calling the military officer to him, asked how long He had been dead.


text:
<n>[Joseph then]</n> brought a linen cloth, and after taking Jesus down from the cross, wrapped the linen cloth around His body and placed it in a grave site that had been cut out of <n>[a ledge of]</n> rock. Then he rolled a huge stone across the entrance to the cave.


text:
<n>[Now]</n> Mary from Magdala and Mary the mother of Joseph <n>[See verse 40]</n> saw where the body was laid.


text:
Now when the Sabbath day was over <n>[i.e., after sunset on Saturday evening]</n>, Mary from Magdala; Mary the mother of James <n>[i.e., the “other Mary” of Matt. 28:1, who was probably Jesus’ mother. See Matt. 27:56]</n>; and Salome <n>[i.e., the mother of James and John and wife of Zebedee. See Matt. 27:56]</n>, bought spices <n>[i.e., consisting of aloes and other aromatic perfumes]</n> in order to apply them to His body <n>[i.e., as a means of embalming]</n>.


text:
And very early on the first day of the week, after sunrise <n>[i.e., on Sunday morning]</n>, they went to the grave site.


text:
They were questioning among themselves, “Who will roll away the stone from the entrance of the cave for us?”


text:
And when they looked up, they saw that the stone had <n>[already been]</n> rolled away, and it was very large.


text:
As they were entering the cave, they were amazed when they saw a young man, dressed in a white robe, sitting at the right side of the entrance.


text:
He said to them, “Do not be amazed. You are looking for Jesus from Nazareth, who was crucified, <n>[are you not]</n>? He has risen from the dead. He is not here. Look at the place where they laid Him.


text:
So, go and tell His disciples and Peter, ‘He is going on ahead of you to Galilee. You will see Him there, just as He told you.’”


text:
So, they left, running out of the cave, <n>[and]</n> trembling with amazement. And they said nothing to anyone about this for they were afraid.


text:
Now when Jesus arose from the dead early on the first day of the week <n>[i.e., Sunday morning]</n>, He appeared first to Mary from Magdala, from whom He had driven out seven evil spirits.


text:
Then she went and told those disciples who had been with Him what had happened. They were sorrowful and began to cry.


text:
And when they heard that Jesus was alive and had been seen by Mary from Magdala, they refused to believe it.


text:
After these things happened, Jesus showed Himself in a different form to two disciples <n>[Note: One was named Cleopas. See Luke 24:13-18]</n>, as they were walking out into the countryside <n>[i.e., to the village of Emmaus, about seven miles northwest of Jerusalem. See Luke 24:13]</n>.


text:
And these two men went and told about their encounter with Jesus to the rest of the disciples, but they did not believe them either.


text:
Later on Jesus showed Himself to the eleven apostles as they sat <n>[i.e., reclined. See Matt. 23:6]</n>, eating a meal. He scolded them for their lack of faith and stubbornness because they refused to believe those who had seen Him <n>[alive]</n> after His resurrection.


text:
Then He said to them, “You <n>[men]</n> go into the entire world and preach the good news to every person.


text:
The person who believes <n>[i.e., the Gospel]</n> and is immersed will be saved <n>[i.e., from condemnation]</n>, but whoever does not believe it will be condemned.


text:
And these <n>[miraculous]</n> signs will attend <n>[the conversion of]</n> those who believe. <n>[Note: This refers to the supernatural miracles performed by the apostles and their associates during the apostolic age. See verse 20 and Acts 2:43]</n>. In my name <n>[i.e., by my authority]</n>, they will drive out evil spirits; they will speak in languages <n>[supernaturally]</n>;


text:
they will pick up snakes <n>[i.e., without being harmed]</n>; and if they happen to drink anything poisonous, it will not harm them; they will place hands on sick people <n>[i.e., with prayer]</n> and they will be healed.”


text:
So then, after the Lord Jesus had spoken to them He was taken up to heaven, where He sat down at the right side of God.


text:
And the apostles <n>[See verses 14-15]</n> went out and preached everywhere. The Lord worked with them and confirmed the message <n>[i.e., verified that it was true]</n> by means of the <n>[miraculous]</n> signs which accompanied their ministry. May it be so.


text:
Your Excellency Theophilus: Since so many people have undertaken the task of compiling a narrative of events that have happened among us,


text:
<n>[that is, people]</n> who were ministers of the word and original eyewitnesses <n>[of these events]</n>, and who passed them on to us; <n>[and since]</n>


text:
I have thoroughly investigated the entire series of events <n>[myself]</n>, I felt it would be good for me also to write you an orderly account of them.


text:
In the days of King Herod, of Judea, there was a certain priest named Zacharias of the “Abijah” division. He had a wife named Elizabeth who was a descendant of Aaron.


text:
They both did what was right in God’s sight <n>[by]</n> living blamelessly according to all the commandments and requirements of the Lord.


text:
But they had no children, because Elizabeth was unable to bear offspring due to their both being very old.


text:
to perform his customary duties as a priest before God, he drew the responsibility <n>[that day]</n> of entering the Temple of the Lord to burn the incense offering. <n>[Note: This was done on a golden Altar in the Temple by a priest twice a day]</n>.


text:
There was a whole crowd of people praying outside because it was the time for burning the incense offering.


text:
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid Zacharias, for your earnest prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will give birth to a son and you will name him John.


text:
For he will be great in the sight of the Lord and he will not drink any wine or intoxicating drinks <n>[Note: This restriction suggests that John may have taken the special vow of consecration making him a “Nazarite”]</n>. And he will be filled with the Holy Spirit from the time he is born.


text:
He will go on ahead of the Messiah <n>[See verse 76]</n>, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to rekindle the affections of fathers for their children, and <n>[to influence]</n> disobedient people to live wisely like righteous people. And he will prepare the people to be ready for <n>[the coming of]</n> the Lord.”


text:
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How will I know this? For I am an old man and my wife is <n>[also]</n> very old.”


text:
The angel answered him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news.


text:
And consider this, you will <n>[have to]</n> remain a mute and be unable to speak until the day when these things happen because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in due time.”


text:
Now the people who waited <n>[outside]</n> for Zacharias were very surprised that he was staying in the Temple so long.


text:
And when he <n>[finally]</n> came out, he was not able to talk to them. Then they realized he had seen a vision while in the Temple. So, he remained a mute and had to make <n>[hand]</n> signs to them <n>[i.e., in order to be understood]</n>.


text:
After those days, his wife Elizabeth became pregnant and she stayed in seclusion for five months, saying,


text:
“The Lord has done this for me, and at this time <n>[in my life]</n> He has favored me by removing the stigma placed on me by people <n>[i.e., for not having children]</n>.”


text:
Now in the sixth month <n>[of Elizabeth’s pregnancy]</n> the angel Gabriel was sent from God to the Galilean town of Nazareth,


text:
The angel came to her and said, “Greetings, you are someone greatly favored <n>[i.e., by God]</n>; the Lord is with you.”


text:
He will be great and will be called the Son of the Highest <n>[i.e., God]</n>, and the Lord will give Him the throne of His forefather King David.


text:
And He will rule over the <n>[spiritual]</n> descendants of Jacob forever and there will be no end to His kingdom.”


text:
The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the Highest <n>[i.e., God]</n> will overshadow you. Therefore, the child you carry will be called the holy Son of God.


text:
And consider this, your relative Elizabeth is also pregnant with a son in spite of her old age, and <n>[even though]</n> she was said to be unable to have children, she is now six months along.


text:
And Mary said, “Here I am, the Lord’s slave-girl; let it happen to me according to what you say.” Then the angel left her.


text:
About that time Mary made a hurried trip to a Judean town in the hill country. <n>[Note: This was the same province in which Jerusalem was located]</n>.


text:
And it happened when Elizabeth heard Mary greet her, the baby in Elizabeth’s womb “kicked,” and she was filled with the Holy Spirit.


text:
Then she spoke out in a loud voice and said, “<n>[Mary]</n>, you are <n>[truly]</n> blessed <n>[from]</n> among <n>[all]</n> women, and the child you will bear <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n> is blessed <n>[as well]</n>.


text:
And she who <n>[has]</n> believed <n>[the promises made by the Lord]</n> is <n>[truly]</n> blessed, for the things which have been spoken to her <n>[i.e., to Mary]</n> by the Lord will <n>[indeed]</n> be fulfilled.”


text:
For He has looked favorably on the humble circumstances of His servant-girl. And consider this, all generations of people will call me ‘blessed’ from now on.


text:
He has demonstrated power with His arm. He hasscattered those who are proud in the thoughts of their heart.


text:
(As He said to our forefathers), He has helped His servants, the Israelites, <n>[showing]</n> that He remembered to be merciful


text:
So, Mary stayed with <n>[her relative]</n> Elizabeth for about three months <n>[i.e., until about the time John was born. See 1:26-31]</n>, and then returned to her home.


text:
When her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had extended great mercy toward her <n>[i.e., in giving her a child]</n>, they rejoiced with her.


text:
And it happened on the eighth day <n>[i.e., since the baby was born]</n> that they came to circumcise the child <n>[i.e., to perform the Jewish rite of identity, signifying the responsibility to observe the Law of Moses]</n>. And they <n>[i.e., probably the neighbors and/or relatives of Elizabeth and Zacharias]</n> suggested that they name him Zacharias, after his father.


text:
And <n>[so]</n> they made <n>[hand]</n> signs to the <n>[baby’s]</n> father to find out what he wanted to name him.


text:
Then Zacharias asked for a writing tablet and wrote <n>[the words]</n> “His name is John.” And they were all amazed.


text:
Just then his mouth was capable of uttering speech, and his tongue could form words, and he praised God.


text:
Then all those who lived in the area became afraid; and people were talking about all these things throughout the entire hill country of Judea.


text:
And everyone who heard about this incident remembered it <n>[i.e., for some time]</n>. They were saying, “What will this child become? For the hand of the Lord was <n>[surely]</n> with him.”


text:
“May the Lord be praised, <n>[who is]</n> the God of the Israelites, for He has come to <n>[the aid of]</n> His people and bought them back <n>[i.e., from bondage]</n>.


text:
He has provided a horn of salvation <n>[i.e., His saving strength]</n> for us from a descendant of His servant King David <n>[i.e., Jesus, born of Mary]</n>


text:
<n>[He has provided]</n> salvation from our enemies, and from the <n>[destructive]</n> hand of all those who hate us,


text:
that we would be delivered from the <n>[destructive]</n> hand of our enemies and <n>[then]</n> serve Him without fear


text:
Yes, you <n>[my]</n> child <n>[i.e., John]</n>, will be called the prophet of the Highest <n>[i.e., God]</n>, for you will go ahead of the Lord’s presence to prepare His ways.


text:
And <n>[you will]</n> provide the knowledge of salvation to His people, by <n>[granting them]</n> the forgiveness of their sins


text:
to shine on those who are sitting in darkness and <n>[are under]</n> the shadow of death, and to direct our feet into the way of peace.”


text:
So, the child <n>[i.e., John]</n> grew and became strong in <n>[his]</n> spirit and stayed in the desert until the day when he appeared publicly to the Israelites.


text:
Now it happened in those days that a decree was sent out from Caesar Augustus <n>[the Emperor of the Roman Empire]</n> requiring <n>[people from]</n> the whole empire to be registered <n>[i.e., for taxation purposes]</n>.


text:
So, Joseph also went from the Galilean town of Nazareth to David’s town, which was the Judean town of Bethlehem, because he was among the descendants and family of David.


text:
<n>[He went]</n> to register, along with Mary, who was engaged to him and who was pregnant <n>[at the time]</n>.


text:
So, she bore her firstborn Son and wrapped Him in <n>[linen]</n> cloths and laid Him in an animal’s feeding trough because there was no room for them in the lodge.


text:
Now there were <n>[some]</n> shepherds in that region who were living in the fields and guarding their flocks <n>[of sheep]</n> at night.


text:
<n>[Suddenly]</n> an angel from the Lord <n>[was seen]</n> standing near them and the glorious presence of the Lord shone around them, and they were very afraid.


text:
And the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for look, I am bringing good news that will cause great joy to all people.


text:
For a Savior has been born today in David’s city <n>[i.e., Bethlehem]</n>, who is Christ the Lord <n>[i.e., God’s specially chosen one]</n>.


text:
And this is the sign <n>[that will verify it]</n> to you: You will find a baby wrapped in <n>[linen]</n> cloths lying in an animal’s feeding trough.”


text:
Then suddenly there appeared with the angel a large number of the heavenly “army” <n>[i.e., of angels]</n>, who were praising God and saying,


text:
“May there be glory to God in the highest <n>[heavens]</n>, and may there be peace on earth among men who are pleasing to God.”


text:
And it happened when the angels left them and returned to heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go to Bethlehem now and see what all happened that the Lord told us about.”


text:
So, they went quickly and found both Mary and Joseph with the baby, lying in the animal’s feeding trough.


text:
Then the shepherds returned <n>[to their fields]</n>, honoring and praising God for everything they had heard and seen, for it all happened just as they had been told.


text:
Eight days later it was time to circumcise Jesus <n>[i.e., to perform the Jewish rite of identity, signifying the responsibility to observe the Law of Moses]</n>, and they named Him Jesus, which was the name given by the angel before He was <n>[even]</n> conceived.


text:
Then when the days of their purification according to the Law of Moses were completed <n>[Note: This was a set procedure required for a Jewish mother on the birth of a child. See Lev. 12:1-8]</n>, Joseph and Mary brought Jesus up to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord.


text:
(It is recorded in the law of the Lord <n>[Ex. 13:2, 12]</n> that every firstborn male child be considered holy <n>[i.e., specially dedicated]</n> to the Lord.)


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They came to offer a sacrifice of two doves or two young pigeons, in accordance with what is written in the Law of Moses.


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Now there was a righteous and devoted man named Simeon at Jerusalem, who was expecting the consolation of the Israelites <n>[i.e., the coming of the Messiah to save them]</n>, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.


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Now it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Christ <n>[i.e., God’s, specially chosen one]</n>.


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And he was led by the Holy Spirit into the Temple, and when Joseph and Mary brought the baby Jesus in, so they could do to Him what was customary under the Law of Moses,


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“Master, you may now allow your servant to be released <n>[i.e., die]</n> in peace, according to what you said.


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<n>[to be]</n> a light for revealing <n>[God’s way of salvation]</n> to the <n>[unconverted]</n> Gentiles, and a <n>[source of]</n> glory to your people, the Israelites.”


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Then Simeon <n>[asked God to]</n> bless them and said to Jesus’ mother Mary, “Look, many Israelites will be caused to fall <n>[i.e., into spiritual ruin]</n> or rise <n>[i.e., to spiritual renewal]</n> because of Him. And <n>[He will be]</n> a ‘sign’ <n>[for people]</n> to speak against,


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and thus reveal the thoughts of many hearts. Yes, and a sword will cut you <n>[Mary]</n> to the heart <n>[i.e., causing you inward pain]</n>.”


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And there was a woman prophet named Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, from the tribe of Asher <n>[i.e., she was a descendant of one of Jacob’s son]</n>. (She was very old, having lived with her husband for <n>[only]</n> seven years after being married,


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and has been a widow <n>[all these years]</n>, and is now eighty-four years old.) She has never left the Temple, but worships <n>[God]</n> by fasting <n>[i.e., going without food and/or water for religious reasons]</n> and praying night and day.


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She came forward at that very time and thanked God <n>[in prayer]</n> and spoke about the child <n>[Jesus]</n> to everyone <n>[in the Temple area]</n> who was expecting the redemption of the people of Jerusalem <n>[i.e., their liberation from sin]</n>.


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So, when Joseph and Mary had completed everything required by the law of the Lord, they returned to their <n>[current home]</n> town of Nazareth, in Galilee.


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And the child <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n> grew and became strong. He was filled with wisdom and God’s favor was upon Him.


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Now Jesus’ parents went to Jerusalem every year to attend the Passover Festival. <n>[Note: This was the annual Jewish festival commemorating Israel’s deliverance from Egyptian bondage under Moses’ leadership]</n>.


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And when they had completed <n>[all]</n> the days <n>[of festivities]</n>, and were returning <n>[home]</n>, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. Now His parents did not know this,


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so thinking He was in the caravan, they continued traveling for an entire day <n>[before]</n> they began looking for Him among their relatives and friends.


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And it happened after three days that they found Him in the Temple, sitting in the middle of the <n>[Jewish]</n> teachers, listening to them and asking questions.


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And all of them who heard Him were amazed at His understanding <n>[i.e., of spiritual matters]</n> and His answers <n>[to questions they would ask Him]</n>.


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When His parents <n>[finally]</n> saw Him, they were very surprised and His mother asked Him, “Son, why have you treated us this way? Look, your <n>[step-]</n> father and I have been anxiously searching for you.”


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And He replied to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I had to be in my Father’s house <n>[i.e., the Temple, or, “about my Father’s affairs”]</n>?”


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So, Jesus went down to Nazareth with them and <n>[continued]</n> to obey them. And His mother kept all these things <n>[stored up]</n> in her heart.


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Now it was the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar. Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, Herod was ruler of Galilee, his brother Philip was ruler of the regions of Ituraea and Trachonitus <n>[Note: These two men were sons of Herod the Great (See Matt. 2:1) and ruled over provinces east of the Jordan River]</n> and Lysanias was ruler of Abilene <n>[Note: This was a province just north of the two previously mentioned ones]</n>.


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<n>[During this time]</n>, while Annas and Caiaphas <n>[Note: This man was Annas’ son-in-law. See John 18:13]</n> were head priests, God’s message came to John <n>[the Immerser]</n>, son of Zacharias, <n>[when he was]</n> in the desert <n>[of Judea]</n>.


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He went into the whole region around the Jordan River proclaiming that those immersed on the basis of their repentance <n>[i.e., determining to change their hearts and lives]</n> would receive the forgiveness of sins <n>[from God]</n>.


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This was according to what is written in the book containing the words of Isaiah, the prophet <n>[Isa. 40:3ff]</n>, “The voice of a man who speaks out in the desert <n>[urging people]</n> to make the road for the Lord ready <n>[for Him to travel]</n>; to make a straight pathway for Him <n>[to walk on]</n>.


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Every valley will be filled up and every mountain and hill will be leveled. And crooked <n>[roads]</n> will become straight and rough ones smoothed out.


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He said to the crowds of people that went out <n>[to the desert]</n> to be immersed by him, “You children of snakes, who warned you to run away from the coming wrath <n>[of God]</n>?


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Demonstrate by your lives that you have <n>[really]</n> repented, and quit saying to yourselves, ‘We claim Abraham as our forefather,’ because I tell you, God is able to make Abraham’s children out of these stones.


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And even now the axe is also ready to chop down the trees at their roots <n>[i.e., you Jews]</n>. Every tree <n>[i.e., person]</n> that does not produce wholesome fruit <n>[i.e., a godly life]</n> will be cut down and thrown into the fire <n>[i.e., the punishment of hell]</n>.”


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And he answered them, “The person who has two coats should give <n>[one of them]</n> to the person who does not have any; and the person who has food should do the same thing.”


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Then some tax collectors came to him to be immersed and asked him, “Teacher, what must we do <n>[i.e., to demonstrate our repentance]</n>?”


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Some soldiers on duty also asked him, “And what must we do <n>[i.e., to demonstrate our repentance]</n>?” And he answered them, “Do not force people to give you money or accuse them falsely, and be content with your pay.”


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Now as people were anticipating <n>[what would happen]</n> and everyone was wondering in their hearts if perhaps John were the Christ <n>[i.e., God’s specially chosen one]</n>,


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John answered <n>[their concerns]</n> by saying to all of them, “I am <n>[the one]</n> immersing you in water, but One who is more powerful than I will follow my <n>[ministry]</n>. I am not <n>[even]</n> worthy to loosen the straps of His sandals. He will immerse you people with the Holy Spirit and with fire <n>[i.e., the punishment of hell. See Matt. 3:10-12]</n>.


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His separating shovel is in His hand and He will completely clear off His threshing floor <n>[i.e., by removing all of the husks]</n>. And He will gather the wheat into His barn, but will burn up the husks with a fire that will never go out.”


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But because he had rebuked Herod, the tetrarch <n>[i.e., the governor of the fourth part of a region]</n>, for <n>[marrying]</n> his brother’s wife Herodias, and for all the other bad things he had done,


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Now it happened when all the people had been immersed <n>[by John]</n>, that Jesus was also immersed <n>[by him]</n>. And while Jesus was praying, heaven was opened


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and the Holy Spirit came down on Him in a physical form, as a dove, and a voice spoke out of heaven <n>[saying]</n>, “You are my dearly loved Son. I am very pleased with you.”


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And Jesus was about thirty years old when He began to teach. (It was assumed that) He was the son of Joseph, who was the <n>[legal]</n> son of Heli <n>[Note: A lineage through Jesus’ mother Mary follows:]</n>


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<n>[Heli was]</n> the son of Matthat, who was the son of Levi, who was the son of Melchi, who was the son of Jannai, who was the son of Joseph,


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who was the son of Mattathias, who was the son of Amos, who was the son of Nahum, who was the son of Esli, who was the son of Naggai,


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who was the son of Maath, who was the son of Mattathias, who was the son of Semein, who was the son of Josech, who was the son of Joda,


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who was the son of Joanan, who was the son of Rhesa, who was the son of Zerubbabel, who was the son of Shealtiel, who was the son of Neri,


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who was the son of Melchi, who was the son of Addi, who was the son of Cosam, who was the son of Elmadam, who was the son of Er,


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who was the son of Jesus, who was the son of Eliezer, who was the son of Jorim, who was the son of Matthat, who was the son of Levi,


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who was the son of Symeon, who was the son of Judas, who was the son of Joseph, who was the son of Jonam, who was the son of Eliakim,


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who was the son of Melea, who was the son of Menna, who was the son of Mattatha, who was the son of Nathan, who was the son of David.


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<n>[And David]</n> was the son of Jesse, who was the son of Obed, who was the son of Boaz, who was the son of Salmon, who was the son of Nahshan,


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who was the son of Amminadab Some ancient manuscripts insert “who was the son of Admim,” who was the son of Arni, who was the son of Hezron, who was the son of Perez, who was the son of Judah,


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who was the son of Jacob, who was the son of Isaac, who was the son of Abraham. <n>[And Abraham]</n> was the son of Terah, who was the son of Nahor,


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who was the son of Serug, who was the son of Reu, who was the son of Peleg, who was the son of Eber, who was the son of Shelah,


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who was the son of Cainan, who was the son of Arphaxad, who was the son of Shem, who was the son of Noah, who was the son of Lamech,


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who was the son of Methuselah, who was the son of Enoch, who was the son of Jared, who was the son of Mahalaleel, who was the son of Cainan,


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who was the son of Enos, who was the son of Seth, who was the son of Adam. <n>[And Adam]</n> was the son of God.


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Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan River <n>[i.e., where He had been immersed. See 3:21]</n> and was led by the Holy Spirit <n>[See Matt. 4:1]</n> into the desert.


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During the forty days He was being put to the test by the devil, He did not eat anything; then after it was over He was <n>[very]</n> hungry.


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But Jesus answered him, “It is written <n>[Deut. 8:3]</n>, ‘A person is not to live by <n>[eating]</n> bread only.’”


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Then he led Him up <n>[i.e., to a high mountain. See Matt. 4:8]</n> and showed Him all the world’s kingdoms in a fleeting instant.


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And the devil said to Him, “I will give you full authority <n>[over them]</n> and their splendor, for it has <n>[all]</n> been granted to me and to whom I want to give it.


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And Jesus answered him, “It is written <n>[Deut. 6:13]</n>, ‘You are supposed to worship the Lord, your God, and serve only Him.’”


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Then the devil led Jesus to Jerusalem and placed Him on the elevated wing of the Temple and said to Him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here,


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for it is written <n>[Psa. 91:11-12]</n>, ‘He will put his angels in charge of you, to protect you,’


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And Jesus answered him, “It is said <n>[Deut. 6:16]</n>, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’”


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Then Jesus returned to Galilee with power from the Holy Spirit; and a report about Him spread through the entire surrounding region.


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Jesus then went to Nazareth where He had been brought up. He entered the synagogue on the Sabbath day, according to His custom, and stood up to read <n>[the Scriptures]</n>.


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The book <n>[i.e., actually a scroll]</n> of the prophet Isaiah was handed to Him. He opened the book and found the passage where it was written <n>[Isa. 61:1f]</n>,


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“The Holy Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He anointed me <n>[i.e., specially chose me]</n> to preach good news to poor people. He has sent me to proclaim freedom to those who are captives <n>[i.e., to sin]</n>; recovery of sight to the <n>[spiritually as well as physically]</n> blind; to set free those who are oppressed <n>[i.e., by Satan]</n> and


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to proclaim the year of the Lord’s acceptance <n>[i.e., the time when people would become His obedient followers]</n>.”


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Then He closed the book, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were focused on Him.


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He began speaking to them <n>[saying]</n>, “Today this <n>[passage of]</n> Scripture has been fulfilled as you listened to it.”


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So, everyone spoke well of Him and marveled at the gracious words coming from His mouth. They said, “Is he not Joseph’s son?”


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And He replied to them, “No doubt you will tell me this proverb, ‘Doctor, heal yourself,’ and ‘Perform <n>[the miracles]</n> here in your own home town also that we heard you did in Capernaum.’”


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But it is true when I tell you, <n>[while]</n> there were many widows <n>[living]</n> in Israel during the time of Elijah, when it did not rain for three and a half years, causing a great famine over the entire land,


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Elijah was not sent to any of them, except to a widow in Zarephath <n>[i.e., a Gentile town]</n> in the region of Sidon.


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And <n>[while]</n> there were many people with infectious skin diseases <n>[living]</n> in Israel during the time of Elisha the prophet, none of them was healed except Naaman, the Syrian <n>[who was also a Gentile]</n>.”


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They rose up and threw Jesus out of the city, leading Him to the top of the hill on which the city was built, in order to throw Him down <n>[from a cliff]</n>.


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Now there was a man in the synagogue who was dominated by the spirit of an evil demon <n>[Note: These “evil spirits” or “demons” were powerful beings sent by Satan to inhabit people, causing physical, mental and spiritual harm to them]</n>. He was shouting with a loud voice,


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“Ha! What business do we have with you, Jesus from Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are; <n>[you are]</n> God’s Holy One.”


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Then Jesus spoke sternly to the evil spirit <n>[in the man]</n>, saying, “Be quiet, and come out of him.” And when the evil spirit had thrown the man down in front of them, it came out of him, without causing any harm.


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And everyone became amazed and began saying to one another, “What is he saying? For with authority and power he orders the evil spirits to come out <n>[of people]</n>, and they do.”


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So, He left the synagogue and entered Simon’s <n>[i.e., Peter’s]</n> house. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was <n>[in bed]</n> stricken with a high fever. And they <n>[i.e., Andrew, James and John, besides Peter. See Mark 1:29]</n> begged Him <n>[to do something]</n> for her.


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So, He stood over her and spoke sternly to the fever. It left her and she got up <n>[out of bed]</n> and began serving them.


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And when the sun was setting, everyone who had friends or relatives who were sick with various diseases brought them to Jesus and He placed His hands on each one of them and healed them.


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And evil spirits also came out of many people, shouting <n>[at Him]</n>, “You are the Son of God.” And Jesus spoke sternly to them and would not allow them to speak <n>[anymore]</n> because they knew He was the Christ <n>[Note: Jesus would not accept the endorsement of these Satanic spirits]</n>.


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And when it became daylight He left <n>[Simon’s house]</n> and went to a deserted place <n>[i.e., to pray. See Mark 1:35]</n>. The crowds were looking for Him and <n>[upon finding Him]</n> went to Him and tried to discourage Him from leaving them.


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But He told them, “I must go to other towns also to preach the good news of God’s <n>[coming]</n> kingdom, for this is why I was sent <n>[by God]</n>.”


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Now it happened while Jesus was standing on the shore of Lake Genneseret <n>[i.e., Lake Galilee]</n> that the crowd was pushing closer to Him to hear God’s message.


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He saw two boats <n>[tied up]</n> along the shore of the lake, for the fishermen had left them <n>[there]</n> and were washing their nets <n>[i.e., on the beach]</n>.


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So, He entered one of the boats that belonged to Simon <n>[i.e., Peter]</n>, and asked him to launch out a short distance from shore. Then He sat down and taught the crowds from the boat.


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And when He had finished talking, He said to Simon, “Launch out into deeper water and lower your nets for a catch <n>[of fish]</n>.”


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Simon replied, “Master, we worked all night, but did not catch anything. But I will lower the nets if you say so.”


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And when they had done this, they gathered in a large number of fish <n>[until]</n> their nets began to break.


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So, they motioned to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. When they came, they filled both boats until they began to sink.


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But when Simon Peter saw this, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Go away from me, Lord, because I am a sinful man.”


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For he and those who were with him were amazed at the <n>[huge]</n> quantity of fish they had caught.


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Simon’s partners James and John, sons of Zebedee, were also amazed. So, Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will catch people.”


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And it happened while Jesus was in one of the towns <n>[i.e., surrounding Lake Galilee]</n>, that a man covered with an infectious skin disease appeared and, when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face <n>[to the ground]</n> and begged Him, saying, “If you want to, you can heal me.” <n>[Note: Throughout this narrative the terms “heal/healing” are originally “clean/cleansing” because the Jews viewed a person with such a disease as ceremonially “unclean.” See Lev. 13:1-3]</n>.


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Then He reached out His hand and touched the man, saying, “I <n>[do]</n> want to; be healed.” And immediately the infectious skin disease left him.


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Then He ordered the man not to tell anyone <n>[about the healing]</n>, saying, “Go on your way and show yourself to the priest and offer the proper sacrifice for your healing that Moses required <n>[Lev. 13:49; 14:2ff]</n> as evidence to people <n>[that you were healed]</n>.”


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But the news about what Jesus had done spread all the more widely, so that large crowds assembled to listen to Him and to be healed of their sicknesses.


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And it happened on one of those days <n>[in Capernaum. See Mark 2:1]</n>, as Jesus was teaching, that some Pharisees <n>[i.e., a strict sect of the Jewish religion]</n> and teachers of the Law of Moses, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem, were sitting around <n>[i.e., listening to Him]</n>. And the power of the Lord was with Him, enabling Him to heal people.


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Just then <n>[four]</n> men <n>[See Mark 2:3]</n> brought a paralyzed man on a cot and attempted to place him in front of Jesus.


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But because they could not find a <n>[suitable]</n> way to get him in <n>[to the house]</n> because of the people crowded <n>[around]</n>, they went up to the housetop <n>[Note: This was a flat area, where people retired for rest, prayer, etc., with a stairway accessible from the outside]</n> and lowered the man on his cot through the roof tiles into the presence of Jesus.


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Then the experts in the Law of Moses and the Pharisees began to reason <n>[in their minds]</n>, saying, “Who is this man who speaks things against God <n>[i.e., by claiming the ability to forgive sins]</n>? Who can forgive sins except God only?”


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Which is easier, to say <n>[to the paralyzed man]</n>, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’?


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But so you will know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins, (He then said to the paralyzed man), ‘I say to you, get up, pick up your cot and go home.’”


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So, immediately he stood up in front of them and picked up what he had been lying on <n>[i.e., his cot]</n>, and went home, giving honor to God.


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And everyone was filled with amazement; they gave honor to God and were overwhelmed with reverence, saying, “We have seen incredible things today.”


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Then after these things happened, Jesus went out <n>[i.e., probably walking along a street]</n> and saw a publican <n>[Note: This was a person with a bad reputation for dishonest tax collecting activities]</n> named Matthew <n>[i.e., the same person as Levi. See Mark 2:14]</n> sitting at the toll booth <n>[collecting taxes]</n> and said, “Become my follower.”


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Then Levi prepared a lavish dinner for Jesus at his house. A large number of <n>[other]</n> tax collectors were <n>[also]</n> having dinner with them.


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Now the Pharisees and their experts in the Law of Moses complained to Jesus’ disciples, saying, “Why do you men eat and drink with tax collectors and worldly people?”


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And Jesus answered them, “People who are healthy do not need a doctor, but <n>[only]</n> sick people do.


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I did not come to call those who are doing right to repent <n>[i.e., to change their hearts and lives]</n>, but <n>[only those who are]</n> sinners.”


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Then they said to Jesus, “John’s <n>[the Immerser’s]</n> disciples fast frequently <n>[i.e., going without food and/or drink for religious reasons]</n> and they offer earnest prayer requests, and the disciples of the Pharisees do the same things. But your disciples eat and drink.”


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Jesus answered them, “Can you force the companions of the groom to fast while the groom is <n>[still]</n> with them?


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But the time will come when the groom will be taken away from them <n>[Note: Jesus here refers to Himself]</n>. Then they will fast at that time.”


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And He told them a parable <n>[i.e., a brief story to illustrate His teaching]</n>: “No one tears a piece <n>[of cloth]</n> from a new item of clothing and sews it on an old one. If he does, it will tear the new one. And besides, the piece <n>[of cloth]</n> from the new clothing will not match the old one.


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And no one puts freshly squeezed grape juice into previously used bottles made of animal skins. <n>[If he does]</n>, the newly squeezed juice will <n>[crack and]</n> burst the <n>[dried out]</n> animal skins and <n>[all the juice will]</n> spill out, and the animal skin bottles will <n>[also]</n> become useless.


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And no one who has drunk aged wine wants newly squeezed <n>[juice]</n>, for he says, ‘The older <n>[grape juice]</n> is better.’”


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Now it happened on a Sabbath day that Jesus was walking through some grain fields. His disciples picked off some heads of grain, rubbed them in their hands and ate <n>[the kernels]</n>. <n>[Note: It was an accepted practice for people in that day to be permitted to do this as they walked along paths bordering a grain field]</n>.


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But certain Pharisees said, “Why are you doing what is against the Law of Moses on the Sabbath day?”


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And Jesus answered them, “Have you never read about what King David did when he and his men were hungry <n>[I Sam. 21:6]</n>;


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how he entered the house of God <n>[i.e., the Temple]</n> and took some ‘Bread of Presence’ and ate it, and also gave some to his men to eat? <n>[This practice]</n> was not permissible according to the Law of Moses, <n>[since the bread was reserved]</n> only for the priests.”


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And it happened on another Sabbath day, when Jesus entered the synagogue to teach, that a man was there whose right hand was deformed.


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And the experts in the Law of Moses were watching Him to see if He would heal <n>[someone]</n> on the Sabbath day, so they could figure out how to accuse Him.


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But He knew what they were thinking. Then He said to the man with the deformed hand, “Get up, step forward in front of everyone.” So, he got up and stepped forward.


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Then Jesus said to them, “I ask you, is it permitted by the Law of Moses to do something good or to do something harmful on the Sabbath day? To save a life or to destroy it?”


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Then He looked around at all of them <n>[there]</n> and said to the man, “Reach out your hand.” And <n>[when]</n> he did this, his hand was restored <n>[to normal use]</n>.


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But the experts in the Law of Moses and the Pharisees became furious and began discussing among themselves what they could do to Jesus.


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And it happened during that time that Jesus went out to the mountain <n>[i.e., probably a hillside near Capernaum]</n> to pray, and continued praying to God all night.


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And when it was daylight, He called His disciples and chose from among them twelve, whom He also called apostles.


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<n>[They were]</n> Simon, also called Peter, and his brother Andrew, James and John <n>[also brothers]</n>, Philip, Bartholomew <n>[i.e., the person same as Nathaniel. See John 1:45]</n>,


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Matthew <n>[i.e., the same person as Levi. See Mark 2:14]</n>, Thomas <n>[i.e., the same person as Didymus. See John 11:16]</n>, James, the son of Alphaeus, Simon, called the Zealot <n>[i.e., the same person as the Cananaean. See Matt. 10:4]</n>,


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Judas, the son of James <n>[i.e., the same person as Thaddaeus. See Matt. 10:3]</n> and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor <n>[to Jesus]</n>.


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Then He came down <n>[from the mountain]</n> with them and stood on a level place <n>[where]</n> a large crowd of His disciples and a large group of people had gathered to hear Him and be healed from their diseases.


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Then the whole crowd tried to touch Him because <n>[supernatural]</n> power was coming from His body, and He healed all of them.


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Then He looked at His disciples and said, “Those of you who have a <n>[sense of personal]</n> need are blessed, because the kingdom of God belongs to you.


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Those of you who now have an appetite <n>[i.e., for doing what is right]</n> are blessed, because you will be satisfied <n>[eventually]</n>. Those of you who cry now <n>[i.e., over your sins]</n> are blessed, because you will laugh <n>[i.e., when you are forgiven later]</n>.


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You are blessed when men hate you and withdraw their fellowship from you and speak abusively about you and reject your name as evil, <n>[all]</n> for being loyal to the Son of man.


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Be happy at that time and jump for joy and realize that your reward in heaven will be great, for the forefathers <n>[i.e., of your corrupt Jewish leaders]</n> treated the prophets the same way.


text:
But it is too bad for you rich people because you have <n>[already]</n> received <n>[all]</n> the comforts <n>[you are going to get]</n>.


text:
It is too bad for you people who have plenty to eat now, because you will be hungry <n>[later on]</n>. It is too bad for you people who are laughing now, because you will grieve and cry <n>[later on]</n>.


text:
It is too bad for you people when everyone speaks well about you, because the forefathers said the same thing about the false prophets.


text:
“But I tell you people who are listening <n>[to me]</n>, love your enemies and do good things to those who hate you.


text:
Whoever hits you on one side of the face, allow him <n>[to hit you on]</n> the other side also; and when someone takes away your coat, do not stop him from also taking away your shirt <n>[i.e., if he insists on it]</n>.


text:
Give to everyone who asks you <n>[for something]</n> and do not demand that he bring back your possessions that he takes away.


text:
And if you love <n>[only]</n> those who love you, what thanks do you deserve for doing that? For even worldly people love those who love them.


text:
And if you do good things <n>[only]</n> to those who do good things to you, what thanks do you deserve for doing that? For even worldly people do that much.


text:
And if you lend something <n>[only]</n> to those people from whom you expect to have it returned, what thanks do you deserve for doing that? Even worldly people lend to worldly people expecting to get the same things back.


text:
But love your enemies and do good things to them; and lend to them without expecting it to be returned, and your reward <n>[i.e., from God]</n> will be great and you will be <n>[considered]</n> sons of the Highest <n>[i.e., God]</n>. For He is kind to unthankful and evil people <n>[as well]</n>.


text:
And do not pass <n>[hypocritical]</n> judgment <n>[on other people. See Matt. 7:1-5]</n> and you will not receive such judgment <n>[on yourselves]</n>. And do not condemn <n>[others]</n> and you will not be condemned <n>[yourselves]</n>. Release people <n>[i.e., from guilt for offending you]</n> and you will be released <n>[i.e., by God (?)]</n>


text:
Give <n>[to others]</n> and you will have <n>[things]</n> given to you. People will pour into your lap a full measure <n>[of goods]</n>; it will be pressed down, shaken together and running over <n>[the edges]</n>. Because the standard you use in giving <n>[to others]</n> will be the standard used <n>[by them or God]</n> in giving back to you.”


text:
Then Jesus told them a parable <n>[i.e., a brief story to illustrate His teaching]</n>: “Can a blind person lead a blind person? Will not both of them fall into a ditch?


text:
The disciple is not more important than his teacher, but when every person becomes complete, <n>[then]</n> he will be like his teacher.


text:
Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take that speck of sawdust out of your eye,’ when you cannot see the board in your own eye? You hypocrite, take the board out of your own eye first; then you will be able to see clearly enough to take out the speck of sawdust that is in your brother’s eye.


text:
For there is no healthy tree that produces bad fruit; nor is there a diseased tree that produces wholesome fruit.


text:
For each tree is recognized by its own fruit. For people do not harvest figs from thorn bushes, nor grapes from a brier bush.


text:
The good person produces good things from the goodness stored up in his heart. And the evil person produces bad things from the evil <n>[stored up in his heart]</n>. For his mouth speaks what his heart is filled with.


text:
Every person who comes to me and listens to my words and obeys them, I will show you who he is like.


text:
He is like a man building a house, who dug deep to lay the foundation on rock. And when a flood came the river pounded against that house, but could not shake it because it had been well built.


text:
But the person who hears <n>[my words]</n> and does not obey them is like a man who built a house on the ground, without a foundation. <n>[When]</n> the river pounded against it, immediately it collapsed and the destruction of that house was complete.”


text:
And a certain military officer’s slave <n>[was there]</n>, whom the officer highly valued. This slave was <n>[so]</n> sick that he was about to die.


text:
And when the officer heard about Jesus, he sent <n>[some]</n> Jewish elders to Him asking that He come and heal his slave.


text:
And when they came to Jesus, they begged Him earnestly, saying, “This officer deserves that you should do this for him <n>[i.e., heal his slave]</n>,


text:
So, Jesus went with them. And when He got close to the military officer’s house, the officer sent <n>[his]</n> friends to Jesus, saying to Him <n>[i.e., speaking on behalf of the military officer]</n>, “Sir, do not trouble yourself, for I do not deserve for you to come into my house;


text:
<n>[and]</n> for the same reason I did not think I deserved to come to you either. So, <n>[just]</n> say the word and <n>[I know]</n> my slave will be healed.


text:
For I also am a man <n>[who was]</n> placed under the authority <n>[of others]</n>, and I have soldiers <n>[who serve]</n> under me. I can say to this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another one, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”


text:
And when Jesus heard these things, He was amazed and said to the crowd that was following Him, “I tell you, I have never found <n>[anyone with]</n> such great faith, not <n>[even]</n> among the Israelites.”


text:
And those who were sent <n>[i.e., the officer’s friends. See verse 6]</n> returned to the house and found the slave completely well.


text:
And it happened soon after this that Jesus went to a town called Nain <n>[Note: This was a town of Galilee about 6 miles southeast of Nazareth]</n>. His disciples and a large crowd <n>[also]</n> went with Him.


text:
Now when He approached the town gate, He saw a dead man being carried out; it was the only son of his widowed mother. And many people from the town were with her.


text:
Then He went near the casket and touched it; <n>[immediately]</n> the pallbearers stopped. Jesus said, “Young man, I tell you, get up.”


text:
And the dead man sat up and began talking. And Jesus gave him <n>[back]</n> to his mother <n>[alive]</n>.


text:
Then everyone was gripped with fear and gave honor to God, saying, “<n>[Surely]</n> a great prophet has arisen among us and God’s <n>[presence]</n> has come to His people.”


text:
And the report of this <n>[incident]</n> about Jesus spread throughout Judea and the entire surrounding district.


text:
Then the disciples of John <n>[the Immerser]</n> told him all about these things <n>[i.e., what Jesus was doing]</n>.


text:
So, John called to him two of his disciples and sent them to the Lord to ask, “Are you the One who was to come, or should we look for someone else?”


text:
And when these men came to Jesus they said, “John the Immerser has sent us to you to ask, ‘Are you the One who was to come, or should we look for someone else?’”


text:
At that very time Jesus was healing many people from diseases, those plagued with serious illnesses and those dominated by evil spirits. He <n>[also]</n> restored sight to many blind people.


text:
So, Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard; <n>[how]</n> blind people are receiving back their sight, and crippled people are walking <n>[again]</n>, and people with infectious skin diseases are being healed, and deaf-mutes are hearing <n>[and speaking (?) again]</n>, and people are being raised <n>[from the dead]</n>, and poor people are having the good news preached to them.


text:
And when the messengers sent by John left, Jesus began saying to the crowds about John, “What did you expect to see when you went out into the desert? A tall stem swaying in the wind?


text:
What did you expect to see? A man dressed in fancy clothes? Look, people who wear elaborate outfits and bask in luxury live in kings’ palaces.


text:
But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I will say <n>[he is]</n>, and much more than a prophet.


text:
And I tell you, among <n>[all]</n> those born of women, there is no one greater than John <n>[the Immerser]</n>, yet the least significant person in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”


text:
And when all the people, together with the tax collectors, heard this they praised God for being so just, and were immersed with the immersion <n>[preached]</n> by John.


text:
But the Pharisees and the teachers of the Law of Moses, who would not be immersed by John, rejected God’s purpose for themselves.


text:
“What then should I compare the people of this generation with?” <n>[Jesus asked]</n>. “And what are they like?


text:
They are like children sitting in the open shopping market, calling to one another, saying, ‘We <n>[pretended we]</n> were making music <n>[at a wedding]</n> but you did not dance; we <n>[pretended we]</n> were wailing <n>[at a funeral]</n> but you did not cry <n>[along with us]</n>.’


text:
For when John the Immerser came, he did not eat bread or drink wine <n>[on festive occasions]</n> and you said, ‘He is dominated by an evil spirit.’


text:
<n>[Then]</n> the Son of man came eating and drinking <n>[at festive occasions]</n> and you said, ‘Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and worldly people.’


text:
It proves that <n>[God’s]</n> wise counsel is right in the eyes of all of her children <n>[i.e., in the eyes of people known for their wisdom]</n>.”


text:
Then one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to have a meal with him. So, He went to the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the <n>[dinner]</n> table. <n>[Note: Matt. 23:6]</n>.


text:
And when a sinful woman from the town learned that He was having dinner at the Pharisee’s house, she brought an alabaster <n>[i.e., stone]</n> jar of liquid perfume,


text:
and stood behind Jesus, at His feet, crying. She began wetting His feet with her tears and wiping them dry with the hair of her head. Then she kissed His feet and poured the perfume on them.


text:
Now when the Pharisee who had invited Jesus saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would have known who touched him and what kind of a woman she was --- a sinner.”


text:
Then Jesus said to him, “Simon <n>[See verse 43]</n>, I have something to say to you.” And he replied, “Teacher, <n>[go ahead and]</n> say it.”


text:
<n>[Jesus then gave this parable]</n>: “A certain moneylender had two men who owed him money; one owed him five hundred coins <n>[Note: The total amount was 500 twelve-hour days of a farm laborer’s pay, or about $54,000 in 2005]</n>, and the other man <n>[owed him]</n> fifty coins <n>[Note: About $5,400 in 2005]</n>.


text:
When these two men did not have <n>[the money]</n> to repay him, the moneylender canceled <n>[the debts of]</n> both of them. Now which of them will love him more?”


text:
Simon answered, “The one who had the largest debt canceled, I suppose.” Jesus said to him, “You are right.”


text:
Then Jesus turned to the woman <n>[who had just poured the perfume on Him]</n> and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house and you did not give me any water for <n>[washing]</n> my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them dry with her hair.


text:
You did not give me a kiss <n>[of greeting]</n>, but from the time I came in <n>[to your house]</n> she has not stopped kissing my feet.


text:
For this reason, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven, for she has loved much. <n>[Note: This suggests that her forgiveness was the result of her loving, but the point Jesus makes better fits the idea that her forgiveness produced love]</n>. But the person who is forgiven of little <n>[i.e., of only a few sins]</n>, loves <n>[only]</n> a little bit.”


text:
And those who were reclining at the <n>[dinner]</n> table with Him began saying among themselves, “Who is this person who can even forgive sins?”


text:
Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you <n>[i.e., from condemnation]</n>. Go <n>[away]</n> in peace.”


text:
And it happened soon after this that Jesus went through one town and village after another, preaching and proclaiming the good news about the kingdom of God. <n>[Traveling]</n> with Him were the twelve apostles


text:
and certain women who had been healed from <n>[domination by]</n> evil spirits and diseases. <n>[These women were]</n> Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven evil spirits had been driven out,


text:
and Joanna, the wife of Chuzas, Herod’s property manager, and Susanna and many others. These <n>[all]</n> had provided the material support for the group from their own means.


text:
Then when a large crowd assembled and people from every town were coming to Jesus, He told them this parable <n>[i.e., a brief story to illustrate His teaching]</n>:


text:
“A farmer went out <n>[to his field]</n> to plant grain. And as he sowed <n>[i.e., scattering seeds by hand]</n>, some of it landed along side of the road; it was stepped on by people and <n>[eventually]</n> birds of the sky came and ate it.


text:
And other <n>[seed]</n> fell on rocky ground and as soon as it started to grow, it <n>[quickly]</n> withered away, because it had no moisture.


text:
And other <n>[seed]</n> fell among thorns, which grew up with it and <n>[eventually]</n> choked out <n>[the tender sprouts]</n>.


text:
And <n>[still]</n> other <n>[seed]</n> fell into fertile soil; it grew and produced a crop of one hundred times <n>[as much as was planted]</n>.” As He said these things, He called out; “The person who has ears to hear with ought to listen <n>[to this]</n> carefully.”


text:
And He said to them, “You <n>[disciples]</n> are being given an understanding of the secrets of the kingdom of God, but the rest of the people <n>[are being told]</n> in parables, so that <n>[even though they appear to be]</n> seeing, they will not <n>[actually]</n> see; and <n>[even though they seem to]</n> hear, they will not understand.


text:
And those people <n>[represented by the seed falling]</n> along side of the road are those who have heard the word <n>[of God]</n>, but the devil comes and takes away the word from their heart, so that they do not believe it and receive salvation.


text:
And those people <n>[represented by the seed falling]</n> on rocky ground are those who, upon hearing the word <n>[of God]</n>, accept it gladly, but since they have no root <n>[system]</n>, they believe it for <n>[only]</n> awhile, and <n>[then]</n> in times of trial fall away <n>[from God]</n>.


text:
And those people <n>[represented by the seed]</n> that fell among thorns are the ones who have heard <n>[the word]</n>, and as they go about their business, they become choked by worry, by money and by worldly pleasures, and produce no mature crop.


text:
And those people <n>[represented by seed falling]</n> in the fertile soil are those who possess a good and honest heart when they hear the word <n>[of God]</n>. They hold on to it and patiently <n>[continue until they]</n> produce a crop.


text:
“And no one lights an <n>[olive oil]</n> lamp and then covers it with a basket or puts it under a bed. But he places it on a stand so that those entering <n>[the house]</n> will see <n>[by]</n> the light.


text:
For there is nothing done in obscurity that will not be made known <n>[openly]</n>, and nothing done secretly that will not <n>[eventually]</n> become known and be revealed.


text:
Pay attention to how you listen, for to the person who <n>[already]</n> has something, <n>[more]</n> will be given, but from the person who has <n>[virtually]</n> nothing, even what he thinks he has will be taken away from him.”


text:
Then Jesus’ mother and <n>[half-]</n> brothers came to Him, but they could not get near Him because of the <n>[large]</n> crowd.


text:
And it was told to Him <n>[by someone]</n>, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside wanting to see you.”


text:
But He replied to them, “My mother and my brothers are those people who hear God’s word and obey it.”


text:
Now it happened on one of those days that Jesus entered a boat with His disciples. He said to them, “Let us go over to the other side” <n>[i.e., the east side of Lake Galilee]</n>; so they launched out.


text:
But while they were sailing, Jesus fell asleep. A windstorm blew down on the lake and <n>[the boat]</n> began filling with water so they were in great danger <n>[of sinking]</n>.


text:
The disciples approached Jesus and woke Him, shouting, “Master, Master, we are sinking.” And He woke up and spoke sternly to the wind and the raging water; <n>[then]</n> the storm <n>[immediately]</n> stopped and <n>[everything]</n> became calm.


text:
Then He said to the disciples, “Where is your faith?” They became afraid and were amazed, saying to one another, “Who can this <n>[man]</n> be, that he can even command the winds and the water and they obey him?”


text:
<n>[Finally]</n> they arrived at the district of the Gerasenes, which is opposite <n>[i.e., across the lake from the province of]</n> Galilee. <n>[Note: Matt. 8:28 says ‘Gadara.’ Geresa and Gadara were two towns about twelve miles apart in the same region east of Lake Galilee]</n>.


text:
And when He stepped out <n>[of the boat]</n> onto the shore, He was met by a certain man from the town, who was dominated by evil spirits. He had not worn any clothes for a long time and lived in the graveyard instead of a house.


text:
And when he saw Jesus, he fell at His feet <n>[i.e., in worship. See Mark 5:6]</n> and shouted out with a loud voice saying, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Highest God? I beg you, do not torture me.”


text:
For Jesus was commanding the evil spirits to be driven out of the man, because they had been controlling him for a long time. The man was continually being guarded and his hands and feet were bound with chains. <n>[Sometimes]</n> he broke loose from the chains and was driven into the desert by the evil spirits.


text:
Then Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” And he answered, “<n>[My name is]</n> ‘Legion’” <n>[Note: This word means a number consisting of between 5,000 and 6,000]</n>, for many evil spirits had entered the man.


text:
And the evil spirits begged Jesus not to require them to go away into the “pit” <n>[Note: This appears to be the place reserved for the devil and his evil spirits. See Rev. 9:1-11; 20:1-3]</n>.


text:
Now a herd of many <n>[wild (?)]</n> hogs was grazing on a <n>[nearby]</n> mountain, so the evil spirits begged Jesus to give them permission to enter <n>[the bodies of]</n> the hogs. So, He gave them permission <n>[to do it]</n>.


text:
Then the evil spirits went out of the man and entered the hogs. The herd <n>[immediately]</n> rushed down the cliff into the lake and was drowned.


text:
And when those who had been grazing the hogs saw what had happened, they ran and told it in the town and <n>[around]</n> the country.


text:
People went out to see <n>[i.e., to find out]</n> what had happened. And <n>[when]</n> they came to Jesus and found the man from whom the evil spirits had been driven out sitting down at Jesus’ feet with his clothes on and perfectly sane, they were afraid.


text:
Then all the people around the district of the Gerasenes asked Jesus to leave their area because they were gripped with great fear. So, He entered a boat and returned.


text:
But the man from whom the evil spirits had been driven out begged Jesus to allow him to travel with Him, but Jesus sent him away, saying,


text:
“Return to your house and tell people about the great things God has done for you.” So, he went on his way, proclaiming throughout the whole town <n>[i.e., Geresa. See verse 26]</n> the great things Jesus had done for him.


text:
Then as Jesus returned <n>[i.e., to the northwest shore of the lake, probably to the vicinity of Capernaum]</n>, a crowd was waiting for Him and welcomed Him.


text:
And just then an official of the <n>[Jewish]</n> synagogue named Jairus came to Him and fell at His feet <n>[i.e., worshiping. See Matt. 9:18]</n> and begged Him to go to his house,


text:
for the official’s only daughter, who was about twelve years old, was dying. As Jesus was going, large crowds pressed in on Him.


text:
Then a woman, who had been bleeding for twelve years, and who had spent all her income on doctors without being healed by any of them,


text:
Jesus said, “Who touched me?” And when everyone denied <n>[doing it]</n>, Peter and the disciples said, “Master, many people are pressing in on you and crowding you.”


text:
But Jesus replied, “Someone did touch me, for I perceived that <n>[healing]</n> power had gone out from me.”


text:
And when the woman realized that she had not escaped notice, she came trembling <n>[with fear]</n> and fell down in front of Him, declaring before all the people why she had touched Him and how she had been immediately healed.


text:
While He was still speaking, someone came from the synagogue official’s house, saying <n>[to him]</n>, “Your daughter is dead; do not bother the Teacher.”


text:
But when Jesus heard this, He said <n>[to the man]</n>, “Do not be afraid. Just believe <n>[i.e., in my power to restore your daughter]</n> and she will be made well <n>[i.e., restored to life]</n>.”


text:
And when Jesus came to the <n>[synagogue official’s]</n> house, He did not allow anyone to enter with Him except Peter, James, John and the girl’s father and mother.


text:
And all the people <n>[in the house]</n> were crying and beating their chests in mourning, so Jesus said <n>[to them]</n>, “Do not cry, for the girl is not <n>[really]</n> dead but <n>[only]</n> sleeping.”


text:
And immediately her spirit returned and she stood up. Then Jesus ordered them to give her something to eat.


text:
Jesus then called the twelve apostles together and gave them power and authority over all evil spirits and <n>[the ability]</n> to heal diseases.


text:
He said to them, “Do not take anything with you during your travels; not <n>[even]</n> a walking stick <n>[Note: By comparing this and the restriction in Matt. 10:10 with the permission given in Mark 6:8, the harmony seems to be “if you do not already have a walking stick, do not get one”]</n>, or a traveling bag <n>[for personal belongings]</n>, or food, or money, or <n>[even]</n> two coats <n>[Note: Mark 6:9 says, “take only one coat” confirming the idea that Jesus was saying, in effect, “do not take anything extra, go just as you are”]</n>.


text:
And those people who do not welcome you, shake the dust off of your shoes as evidence against them.” <n>[Note: This was a Jewish custom showing disdain, and intended to suggest their unworthiness]</n>


text:
So, they left and went throughout the villages preaching the good news and healing people everywhere.


text:
Now when King Herod, the tetrarch <n>[i.e., governor of that district]</n> heard about all that was happening <n>[concerning Jesus]</n>, he was perplexed because some people were saying that John <n>[the Immerser]</n> had risen from the dead;


text:
some <n>[were saying]</n> that <n>[the prophet]</n> Elijah had appeared; and <n>[still]</n> others <n>[were saying]</n> that one of the <n>[other]</n> prophets of old had risen again <n>[from the dead]</n>.


text:
Then Herod said, “I had John decapitated, so who is this person about whom I hear such things?” And he became eager to see Jesus.


text:
When the apostles returned they told Jesus what they had done. Then Jesus took them and went away privately to a town called Bethsaida. <n>[Note: This town was on the east side of Lake Galilee, and apparently was a different “Bethsaida” from the one mentioned in Mark 6:45]</n>.


text:
But the crowds found out about it <n>[i.e., where Jesus had gone]</n>, so they followed Him <n>[there]</n>. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the <n>[coming]</n> kingdom of God and cured those who needed healing.


text:
Then late in the day the twelve apostles came and said to Jesus, “Send the crowd away so they can go into the villages and the surrounding countryside to find lodging and food because this place is deserted.”


text:
But He said to the apostles, “You men give them something to eat.” But they replied, “We have only five loaves of <n>[barley]</n> bread <n>[See John 6:9]</n> and two <n>[probably smoked]</n> fish, unless we go and buy <n>[more]</n> food for all these people.”


text:
For there were about five thousand men <n>[there]</n>. So, He said to His disciples, “Have these people recline <n>[on the grass. See Matt. 14:19]</n> in groups of about fifty each.”


text:
Then Jesus took the five loaves of bread and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, asked God’s blessing on the food. <n>[Then]</n> He broke it <n>[in pieces]</n> and gave it to the disciples to distribute to the crowds.


text:
They all ate until they were full, then gathered up twelve baskets <n>[full]</n> of the remaining broken pieces.


text:
And it happened while Jesus was praying off by Himself that His disciples joined Him. He asked them, saying, “Who are the crowds saying that I am?”


text:
And they answered, “<n>[Some say you are]</n> John the Immerser, while others say <n>[the prophet]</n> Elijah, and <n>[still others say]</n> that one of the <n>[other]</n> prophets of old has risen again <n>[from the dead]</n>.”


text:
Then Jesus said to them, “But who do you men say that I am?” And Peter answered, “<n>[You are]</n> the Christ of God <n>[i.e., God’s specially chosen one]</n>.”


text:
saying, “The Son of man must suffer many things and be rejected by the <n>[Jewish]</n> elders, leading priests and experts in the Law of Moses. Then He will be killed and <n>[yet]</n> be raised up on the third day.”


text:
Then He said to everyone, “If anyone wants to be my follower, he should deny self <n>[i.e., of always having its own way]</n> and accept his cross <n>[i.e., his responsibilities, with all their difficulties]</n> everyday, and <n>[then he can]</n> become my follower.


text:
For whoever would <n>[try to]</n> save his life <n>[i.e., by neglecting spiritual things]</n> will lose it <n>[i.e., miss out on the blessings of God]</n>. But whoever <n>[willingly]</n> loses his life <n>[i.e., in commitment to God’s service]</n> for my sake, that person will save it <n>[i.e., obtain both temporal and spiritual blessings]</n>.


text:
For what is a person benefited if he gains the whole world <n>[i.e., of material things]</n> and <n>[yet]</n> loses <n>[his spiritual life]</n> or gives himself up <n>[to spiritual ruin]</n>?


text:
For whoever will be ashamed of me and of my words, the Son of man will <n>[also]</n> be ashamed of him when He returns in His own splendor and that of the Father and of the holy angels.


text:
But I tell you the truth, there are some people standing here who will surely not experience death until they see that God’s kingdom has come <n>[i.e., in a demonstration of power. See Mark 9:1]</n>.”


text:
And it happened about eight days after Jesus said these things that He took Peter, John and James with Him and went up in the mountain to pray. <n>[Note: This was probably Mt. Tabor, which was nearby]</n>.


text:
And as He was praying, the appearance of His face was <n>[miraculously]</n> changed and His clothing became dazzling white.


text:
who appeared in splendor, and were speaking of Jesus’ <n>[coming]</n> departure <n>[i.e., His imminent death]</n>, which He was soon to experience at Jerusalem.


text:
Now Peter and those with him <n>[i.e., James and John]</n> had been very sleepy, but became wide awake when they saw the splendor of Jesus and the two men standing with Him.


text:
And it happened, as the two men were leaving Him, that Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is <n>[so]</n> good for us to be here. Let us make three <n>[small]</n> shelters, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” <n>[But]</n> he did not realize what he was saying. <n>[See note at Matt. 17:4]</n>


text:
And while he was speaking, a cloud appeared and engulfed them and the apostles were afraid as Moses and Elijah entered the cloud <n>[i.e., and disappeared]</n>.


text:
Then a voice spoke out of the cloud, saying, “This is My Son, <n>[whom]</n> I have chosen; listen to Him.”


text:
And after the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. But the apostles kept quiet <n>[about this incident]</n>, and did not tell anyone at that time about anything they had seen.


text:
And it happened on the next day, when they had come down from the mountain, that a large crowd met Jesus.


text:
Just then a man from the crowd shouted out, “Teacher, I beg you, look at my son <n>[i.e., favorably]</n>, for he is my only child.


text:
For when an evil spirit takes hold of him he suddenly screams and <n>[then]</n> it throws him into convulsions so that he foams <n>[at the mouth]</n>. And it does not want to leave him, <n>[even after]</n> severely bruising him.


text:
And Jesus replied, saying, “You perverse generation of faithless people! How long must I be <n>[patient]</n> with you, and put up with you <n>[i.e., before you understand]</n>? Bring your son here.”


text:
And while the boy was approaching <n>[Jesus]</n>, an evil spirit threw him to the ground in a convulsion. But Jesus spoke sternly to the evil spirit and <n>[then]</n> returned him to his father healed.


text:
And everyone was amazed at <n>[seeing]</n> the greatness of God. But while they were all amazed at everything Jesus was doing, He said to His disciples,


text:
“Pay close attention to what I am saying, for the Son of man will be handed over to <n>[evil]</n> men.”


text:
But they did not understand what He was talking about, for it was hidden from them, so that they would not understand its meaning. And they were afraid to ask Him about what He had said.


text:
When Jesus knew what they were disputing about in their minds, He took a small child and placed him at His side,


text:
and said to the disciples, “The person who welcomes this little child in my name <n>[i.e., because he belongs to me]</n>, welcomes me <n>[also]</n>. And the person who welcomes me <n>[i.e., into his life (?)]</n> welcomes God, who sent me. For that person who is the least <n>[significant]</n> among you men is the one who is the greatest <n>[in importance]</n>.”


text:
Then <n>[the apostle]</n> John answered and said, “Master, we saw someone driving out evil spirits by <n>[using]</n> your name, so we told him not to, because he was not following <n>[you]</n> with us.”


text:
And it happened when the time came for Jesus to be taken up <n>[to heaven]</n> that He firmly determined to go to Jerusalem.


text:
So, He sent messengers on ahead of Him, who went and entered a Samaritan village to prepare for Him <n>[i.e., for His food and lodging]</n>.


text:
And these Samaritans did not welcome Him because He was heading for Jerusalem. <n>[Note: They perceived He was a Jew and Samaritans did not associate with Jews]</n>.


text:
And when His disciples James and John saw this, they said <n>[to Him]</n>, “Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to burn them up?”


text:
But He turned to them and spoke sternly. Some manuscripts add “You do not know what kind of a spirit you represent,


text:
for the Son of man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.” So, they went to another village.


text:
And as they were going along the road, a certain man <n>[i.e., an expert in the Law of Moses. See Matt. 8:19]</n> said to Him, “I will follow you wherever you go.”


text:
Jesus replied to him, “The foxes have dens <n>[in which to live]</n> and the birds of the sky have nests <n>[in which to roost]</n>, but the Son of man does not have anywhere to lay His head.”


text:
And <n>[then]</n> He said to another person, “Become my follower.” But he replied, “Lord, allow me to go and bury my father first.”


text:
But Jesus replied to him, “Let the <n>[spiritually]</n> dead bury their own dead <n>[i.e., let them care for their family members until they die]</n>, but you go and proclaim the <n>[coming]</n> kingdom of God.”


text:
Then another person said <n>[to Jesus]</n>, “Lord, I will become your follower, but first let me say goodbye to my family.” <n>[Note: There was the likelihood that family members might try to dissuade him from his commitment to follow the Lord]</n>.


text:
But Jesus said to him, “Nobody who begins plowing <n>[a field]</n> and then looks back <n>[i.e., in regret for beginning such an arduous task]</n> is suited for <n>[serving in]</n> the kingdom of God.”


text:
Now after these things <n>[happened]</n> the Lord appointed seventy-two other disciples <n>[Note: Some ancient manuscripts say “seventy.” This group would have been in addition to the twelve. See Luke 9:1]</n>, and sent them two by two on ahead of Him into every town and locality that He planned to visit.


text:
And He said to them, “There is certainly plenty to harvest, but there are <n>[too]</n> few people to do the work. You should pray to the Lord of the harvest to send <n>[more]</n> workers out into the field to gather His crop.


text:
Do not carry a money belt, or a traveling bag <n>[for personal belongings]</n> or shoes; and do not extend <n>[elaborate]</n> greetings to anyone along the way.


text:
And if a son of peace is there <n>[i.e., a peace-loving person]</n>, your <n>[request for]</n> peace will rest upon him. But if he is not <n>[a peace-loving person]</n>, your <n>[blessing of]</n> peace will return to <n>[rest on]</n> you.


text:
And you should remain in that same house <n>[i.e., the peace-loving one]</n>, eating and drinking whatever they serve you, for the worker deserves his wages. Do not move from house to house <n>[i.e., wasting time]</n>.


text:
But whatever town you enter that does not welcome you, go out into its streets and say <n>[to them]</n>,


text:
‘We are wiping off even the dust of your city that has stuck to our feet <n>[in protest]</n> against you. Yet you should know this, that the kingdom of God has come near <n>[to you]</n>.’


text:
I tell you, the people of Sodom will be shown more leniency on that day <n>[i.e., the Day of Judgment]</n> than that town will receive.


text:
“It is too bad for you, Chorazin! It is too bad for you, Bethsaida! For if the powerful miracles had been performed in Tyre and Sidon which were performed in your presence, they would have repented long ago by sitting in ashes and wearing sackcloth. <n>[Note: This sackcloth was a coarse cloth made of goat hair and indicated deep remorse or mourning]</n>.


text:
And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up <n>[as high]</n> as heaven? <n>[Certainly not]</n>, you will be brought down to the unseen place of departed spirits <n>[i.e., you will become obscure or obliterated as a city]</n>.


text:
The person who listens to you, <n>[actually]</n> listens to me. And the person who rejects you, <n>[actually]</n> rejects me. And the person who rejects me, <n>[actually]</n> rejects Him who sent me <n>[i.e., God]</n>.”


text:
So, the seventy-two disciples returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the evil spirits submitted to us in your name <n>[i.e., by your authority]</n>.”


text:
See, I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions <n>[i.e., to receive protection from accidental contact with venomous creatures. See Acts 28:5]</n> and <n>[to have authority]</n> over all the power of the enemy <n>[i.e., Satan. See verse 18]</n>. And nothing at all will hurt you.


text:
Nevertheless, do not rejoice over the <n>[evil]</n> spirits submitting to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven <n>[i.e., in the book of life. See Rev. 3:5; Heb. 12:23]</n>.”


text:
At that very time Jesus rejoiced in <n>[the power of]</n> the Holy Spirit, and said <n>[in prayer]</n>, “I praise you, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you concealed these things <n>[i.e., His divine revelations]</n> from those <n>[claiming to be]</n> wise and intelligent and have revealed them to babies <n>[i.e., to simple, sincere, common people]</n>. Yes, Father, this was pleasing to you.


text:
Everything has been handed over to me by my Father and no one knows the Son except the Father. And <n>[no one knows]</n> the Father except the Son and whatever person the Son wants to reveal Him to.”


text:
Then Jesus turned to the disciples and said privately, “The eyes that see the things you see are <n>[truly]</n> blessed,


text:
for I tell you, many prophets and kings wanted to see the things that you see, but did not <n>[get to]</n> see them. And <n>[they wanted]</n> to hear the things that you hear, but did not <n>[get to]</n> hear them.”


text:
Just then a certain teacher of the Law of Moses stood up and <n>[attempted to]</n> test Jesus, saying, “Teacher, what must I do to inherit <n>[never ending]</n> life?”


text:
And the man answered Him, <n>[Deut. 6:5]</n>, “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength and with all your mind.” And <n>[Lev. 19:18 says]</n>, “<n>[You must love]</n> your neighbor just as <n>[you love]</n> yourself.”


text:
Then Jesus said to him, “You have answered correctly; <n>[if]</n> you do this, you will live” <n>[i.e., forever. See verse 25]</n>.


text:
But, wanting to justify himself, the teacher of the Law of Moses asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”


text:
Jesus answered him, “A certain man was traveling down from Jerusalem to Jericho <n>[Note: This was a town about eighteen miles northeast of Jerusalem]</n>, when he was attacked by robbers, who stripped him <n>[of his clothing and belongings]</n> and beat him up, then went away leaving him half dead.


text:
And it just happened that a certain priest was traveling down that <n>[same]</n> road, and when he saw the <n>[injured]</n> man, he went around him on the opposite side of the road.


text:
In the same way, a Levite <n>[Note: Levites were assistants to the priests]</n>, when coming to that place and seeing the <n>[injured]</n> man, also went around him on the opposite side <n>[of the road]</n>.


text:
But <n>[then]</n> a certain Samaritan <n>[Note: This was a person despised by the Jews and regarded by them as a ‘half-breed’]</n>, as he traveled along, came to where the <n>[injured]</n> man was <n>[lying]</n>, and upon seeing him <n>[lying there]</n>, felt deep pity <n>[for him]</n>.


text:
So, he went over to him, poured oil and wine on him <n>[i.e., as emergency medical treatment]</n>, then bandaged his wounds, placed him on his own animal, and took him to a lodge where he took care of him.


text:
Then the next day he gave the lodge keeper two coins <n>[Note: These coins amounted to two twelve-hour days of a farm laborer’s pay, or about $216 in 2005]</n> and told him, ‘Take care of this <n>[injured]</n> man; and whatever more you have to spend on him I will repay you when I come back <n>[this way]</n> again.’


text:
<n>[Now]</n> which of these three men do you think acted like a neighbor to the man attacked by the robbers?”


text:
And the teacher of the Law of Moses said, “The person who showed pity on him.” Then Jesus replied, “You go and do the same thing.”


text:
Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a certain village <n>[i.e., Bethany. See John 11:1]</n>, and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house.


text:
But Martha was preoccupied with all the preparations <n>[i.e., for entertaining her beloved guest]</n> and came up to Jesus and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Ask her to help me.”


text:
But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha; you are worried and bothered about <n>[so]</n> many things.


text:
But only one thing is <n>[really]</n> needful. For Mary has made the better choice, which will not be taken away from her.”


text:
And it happened as Jesus finished praying at a certain place that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us <n>[how]</n> to pray, just like John <n>[the Immerser]</n> taught his disciples.”


text:
And He said to them, “When you pray you should say, ‘Father, may your name be highly honored. May your kingdom come <n>[to earth]</n>.


text:
And forgive us of our sins, for we ourselves also forgive everyone who has wronged us. And do not allow us to be put to the test.’”


text:
And Jesus said to His disciples, “Suppose one of you would go to his friend at midnight and say to him, ‘<n>[Please]</n> lend me three loaves of bread,


text:
for a friend of mine has come to <n>[visit]</n> me while on a trip and I do not have anything to feed him’


text:
Then the man will answer from inside <n>[his house]</n>, ‘Do not bother me. My door is <n>[already]</n> locked, my children are <n>[already]</n> in bed with me and I cannot get up to give you anything.’


text:
I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him something because he is a friend, yet because of his friend’s persistence, he will <n>[eventually]</n> get up and give him whatever he needs.


text:
And I tell you, ask <n>[God for something]</n> and it will be given to you; look <n>[to God for something]</n> and you will find it; knock <n>[on the door of opportunity]</n> and it will be opened up to you.


text:
For every person who asks will <n>[certainly]</n> receive; and the one who looks will <n>[certainly]</n> find; and to the person who knocks, the door will <n>[certainly]</n> be opened up.


text:
And what father among you, whose son asks <n>[him]</n> Some ancient manuscripts add “for a loaf of bread, will give him a stone <n>[instead]</n>? Or, <n>[if he asks]</n>” for a fish, will give him a snake <n>[instead]</n>?


text:
Or, if he asks <n>[him]</n> for an egg, will give him a scorpion <n>[instead]</n>? <n>[Note: While at rest a scorpion rolls up in a ball that resembles an egg]</n>.


text:
If then you know how to give good gifts to your children, even though you are sinful <n>[human beings]</n>, how much more <n>[likely]</n> is it that your Father in heaven will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?”


text:
<n>[Once]</n> Jesus was driving out an evil spirit from a <n>[man who was]</n> mute. And it happened when the evil spirit left <n>[him]</n> that the <n>[former]</n> mute began to speak. And the crowds were amazed.


text:
But some of the people said, “He is driving out evil spirits by <n>[the power of]</n> Beelzebub, the chief of evil spirits.”


text:
But, knowing their thoughts, Jesus said to them, “Every kingdom <n>[plagued]</n> with internal division will end in ruin. And a household divided from within will fall.


text:
And if Satan also is divided against himself, how <n>[then]</n> can his kingdom stand? I tell you this because you are saying that I drove out evil spirits by <n>[the power of]</n> Beelzebub.


text:
But, if I drive out evil spirits by <n>[the power of]</n> Beelzebub, by whom do your followers drive them out? So, they will be your judges.


text:
But, if I drive out evil spirits by the finger of God <n>[i.e., by God’s direct, supernatural intervention]</n>, then <n>[that is evidence that]</n> the kingdom of God has come into your midst <n>[i.e., by my presence and ministry]</n>.


text:
When a fully armed strong man guards his own courtyard <n>[i.e., homestead]</n>, his possessions are safe.


text:
But when someone stronger than he attacks him and overpowers him, he takes away all the armament the strong man relied on, and <n>[then]</n> divides up his storehouse of possessions. <n>[Note: The word here translated “possessions” may be translated “arms,” so the meaning could be “divides up his armament”]</n>.


text:
“When an evil spirit has been driven out of a man, it roams through desert regions trying to find rest, but <n>[when it]</n> cannot find any, it says <n>[to itself]</n>, ‘I will return to my house from which I came <n>[i.e., the body of the person it dominated]</n>.’


text:
Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits, more evil than itself, and they reenter <n>[the body]</n> and <n>[begin]</n> to live there, so that the latter state of that person becomes worse than the former state.”


text:
And it happened as He said these things that a certain woman called out to Him from the crowd, saying, “The woman who gave you birth and nursed you is <n>[certainly]</n> blessed.”


text:
And when the crowds thronged around Jesus, He began saying, “This generation of people is evil, <n>[for]</n> it is looking for a <n>[supernatural]</n> sign. But no <n>[such]</n> sign will be given to it except the sign <n>[demonstrated in the life]</n> of Jonah.


text:
For just like Jonah became a sign to the people of Nineveh <n>[Note: Nineveh was the capital of ancient Assyria]</n>, so the Son of man will also be <n>[a sign]</n> to this generation of people.


text:
The queen of the South <n>[Note: This queen was from Sheba, which was probably in Arabia. See I Kings 10:1]</n> will stand up on the judgment day, along with the people of this generation, and will condemn them because she came from a great distance to hear <n>[and see]</n> Solomon’s wisdom <n>[I Kings 10:1ff]</n> and <n>[now]</n> Someone greater than Solomon is here <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n>.


text:
The people of Nineveh will stand up on the judgment day with the people of this generation and will condemn them because they repented <n>[i.e., changed their hearts and lives]</n> when hearing the preaching of Jonah <n>[Jonah 3:5-10]</n> and <n>[now]</n> Someone greater than Jonah is here <n>[i.e., Jesus]</n>.


text:
“No one lights an <n>[olive oil]</n> lamp and <n>[then]</n> places it in a hidden place or under a bushel-sized container, but on its stand, so that those who enter <n>[the room]</n> can see <n>[by]</n> the light.


text:
Your eye is <n>[like]</n> a lamp to your body <n>[i.e., your life]</n>. When your eye sees things correctly, <n>[then]</n> your whole body <n>[i.e., your entire life]</n> is illuminated <n>[i.e., directed into proper conduct]</n>. But when it sees things wrongly, <n>[then]</n> your body <n>[i.e., your life]</n> is also full of darkness <n>[i.e., is not being lived properly]</n>.


text:
Look therefore, <n>[to see]</n> whether or not the light that is in you <n>[i.e., your perspective on things]</n> might <n>[actually]</n> be darkness <n>[i.e., a distorted perspective]</n>.


text:
If therefore your whole body <n>[i.e., your entire life]</n> is full of light <n>[i.e., sees and responds to things correctly]</n>, with no blind spots <n>[i.e., areas where you do not see and act correctly]</n>, your body <n>[i.e., your life]</n> will be fully illuminated <n>[i.e., directed into proper conduct]</n> just like a bright, shining lamp illuminating you <n>[i.e., enabling you to see and respond to things properly]</n>.”


text:
Now while Jesus was speaking, a Pharisee <n>[i.e., a strict sect of the Jewish religion]</n> invited Him to have a meal with him. So, Jesus went in <n>[to his house]</n> and reclined <n>[at the dinner table]</n>. <n>[Note: See Matt. 23:6]</n>.


text:
And when the Pharisee observed this, he was surprised that Jesus had not first washed himself ceremonially before the meal.


text:
And the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees <n>[meticulously]</n> clean the outside of the cup and the dish <n>[i.e., this was an allusion to their lives]</n>, but you are filled with greed for wealth and <n>[other]</n> evils on the inside.


text:
You foolish people! Did not the One <n>[i.e., God]</n> who made the outside <n>[i.e., your body]</n> also make the inside <n>[i.e., your spirit]</n>?


text:
But you should give to poor people what you have inside. <n>[Note: This means either what is inside the dish or what is inside your heart]</n>. And <n>[then]</n> you will see that everything is <n>[ceremonially]</n> clean to you <n>[as well]</n>.


text:
“But it is too bad for you Pharisees! For you give a tenth of your mint, rue and every <n>[other]</n> herb <n>[Note: These were small garden plants used for seasoning or medicine]</n> and <n>[yet]</n> neglect <n>[demonstrating]</n> justice and the love of God <n>[toward others]</n>. But you should have done these things and not neglected to do the other things <n>[as well]</n>.


text:
“It is too bad for you Pharisees! For you love <n>[to occupy]</n> the principal seats in the synagogues and <n>[to receive special]</n> greetings in the open shopping markets.


text:
“It is too bad for you! For you people are like obscure grave sites that people walk over without knowing it.”


text:
Then one of the teachers of the Law of Moses answered Jesus, saying, “Teacher, you insulted us too by saying this.”


text:
And He replied them, “It is too bad for you teachers of the Law of Moses also! For you heap heavy responsibilities on people, which are difficult to bear, while you do not even lift a finger to bear them yourselves.


text:
“It is too bad for you! For your forefathers killed the prophets and you build grave monuments to them <n>[i.e., the prophets]</n>.


text:
So, <n>[by doing this]</n> you are witnesses <n>[against yourselves]</n> that you approve of the deeds of your forefathers, for they killed the prophets and you build grave monuments to them.


text:
Therefore, the wisdom of God said, <n>[Note: Is this a reference to Jesus? See I Cor. 1:30 and Matt. 23:34-36]</n>, ‘I will send prophets and apostles to them <n>[i.e., the Jewish people]</n> and they will kill and persecute some of them,


text:
so that the blood of all the prophets, shed from the beginning of the world, may be required of this generation of people.’


text:
Yes, I tell you, this generation will be punished <n>[for the death of the prophets]</n>, from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zachariah, who died between the Altar and the sanctuary <n>[i.e., in the Temple area]</n>. <n>[Note: This punishment began about 37 years later in the war with the Romans, when Jerusalem was destroyed]</n>.


text:
“It is too bad for you teachers of the Law of Moses! For you took away the key of knowledge <n>[i.e., preventing people from understanding God’s plan]</n>. You did not enter <n>[the kingdom of heaven. See Matt. 23:13]</n> yourselves, and <n>[you even]</n> prevented those who <n>[wanted]</n> to enter <n>[to get in]</n>.”


text:
And when Jesus left there <n>[i.e., probably the Pharisee’s house. See verse 37]</n>, the experts in the Law of Moses and the Pharisees began opposing Him with hostility and bombarding Him with many questions,


text:
About this time, while a crowd of many thousands had assembled, <n>[so large that]</n> people were trampling on one another, Jesus first began telling His disciples, “Watch out for the leavening <n>[effect]</n> of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.


text:
But there is nothing <n>[they do that will remain]</n> covered up; it will <n>[all]</n> be exposed. <n>[And there is]</n> nothing done secretly that will not be made known <n>[openly]</n>.


text:
Therefore, whatever you have said in the darkness <n>[i.e., in obscurity]</n> will be heard in the light <n>[i.e., openly]</n>. And what you have whispered in someone’s ear in a back room, will be declared from the housetops.


text:
And I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who can kill your body and after that can do nothing more.


text:
But I am warning you about whom you should fear. Fear the One <n>[i.e., God]</n> who, after He has killed <n>[i.e., the body]</n>, has power to throw <n>[you]</n> into hell <n>[See note on Matt. 5:29]</n>. Yes, I tell you, fear Him.


text:
Are not five sparrows sold <n>[i.e., in the market as food]</n> for two coins? <n>[Note: The coins here amount to just over one hour’s worth of a farm laborer’s pay, or about $10 in 2005]</n>. Yet in the presence of God, not a <n>[single]</n> one of them is forgotten.


text:
Indeed, <n>[God even knows]</n> the number of hairs on your head <n>[Note: The average full head of hair has approximately 25,000 hairs]</n>. <n>[So]</n>, do not be afraid, for you are <n>[much]</n> more valuable than many sparrows.


text:
“And I tell you, every person who acknowledges me in front of people <n>[i.e., to be his Lord and Christ]</n>, the Son of man will also acknowledge him in front of God’s angels.


text:
But that person who disowns me in front of people <n>[i.e., denies that I am the Christ, or that he is a disciple. See John 18:15-17, 25-27]</n>, will be disowned in front of God’s angels.


text:
And every person who speaks an <n>[abusive]</n> word against the Son of man will be forgiven of it, but the person who speaks abusive words against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven of it.


text:
And when people bring you in front of synagogue assemblies and rulers and authorities <n>[i.e., for judgment]</n>, do not worry about how to speak or what you should say.


text:
Then someone out of the crowd said to Jesus, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the <n>[family]</n> inheritance with me.”


text:
But He said to him, “Man, who appointed me to judge or <n>[decide on how]</n> to divide <n>[the property]</n> between you two?”


text:
And <n>[then]</n> He said to them, “Be careful and guard yourselves against <n>[practicing]</n> all forms of greed, for a person’s life does not consist of having a lot of possessions.”


text:
And He told them a parable <n>[i.e., a brief story to illustrate His teaching]</n>, saying, “The land of a certain rich man produced a bumper crop,


text:
so he thought to himself, ‘What should I do, because I do not have any <n>[more]</n> room to store my crops?’


text:
Then he said <n>[to himself]</n>, ‘This is what I will do. I will tear down my barns and build larger <n>[ones]</n>; then I will store all my grain and <n>[other]</n> goods there <n>[i.e., farm supplies]</n>.


text:
And I will say to myself, ‘Soul, you have plenty of goods <n>[i.e., grain and supplies]</n> stored up for many years, <n>[so]</n>, take it easy; eat, drink and have fun.’


text:
But God said to him, ‘You fool! Tonight your life will be taken away from you. And <n>[then]</n> who will get the things you have stored up <n>[for yourself]</n>?’


text:
This is <n>[the way it will be with]</n> the person who stores up treasures for himself, and <n>[yet]</n> is not rich toward God <n>[i.e., does place enough importance on spiritual things]</n>.”


text:
Then Jesus said to His disciples, “So, I tell you, do not worry about <n>[the material things of]</n> your life, <n>[such as]</n> what you will eat or what you will wear on your body.


text:
For there are more important things in life than food, and <n>[more important things about]</n> your body than the clothing <n>[you wear]</n>.


text:
Look at the ravens; they do not plant seeds or harvest <n>[a crop]</n>; they do not have a storage locker or a barn, and <n>[yet]</n> God feeds them <n>[adequately]</n>. Are you not a lot more valuable than those birds?


text:
“Consider how <n>[wild]</n> lilies grow; they do not work or weave, yet I tell you, even Solomon, clothed in his very finest royal robes, was never dressed <n>[as luxuriously]</n> as one of these <n>[flowers]</n>.


text:
But if God so <n>[beautifully]</n> dresses the grass in a field, which is <n>[green]</n> today, and <n>[then]</n> tomorrow <n>[dries up and]</n> is thrown into the oven <n>[i.e., as fuel]</n>, will He not do even more in providing your clothing, you people with such little faith?


text:
So, do not look <n>[anxiously]</n> for what you will eat, and what you will drink, and do not be <n>[continually]</n> worried <n>[i.e., about such things]</n>.


text:
For all these things are what the <n>[unconverted]</n> nations of the world keep trying to get. But your Father <n>[already]</n> knows you need these things.


text:
So, look for God’s kingdom and these things <n>[i.e., food, drink and clothing]</n> will be provided for you.


text:
“<n>[And]</n>, do not be afraid, little flock <n>[Note: Jesus refers to His small band of disciples as sheep following Him as their Shepherd]</n>, for your Father was pleased to give you the kingdom.


text:
Sell your possessions and give <n>[the money]</n> to poor people; provide yourselves with money belts that do not wear out <n>[i.e., from the constant use of carrying much money all the time, instead of investing it in others’ needs]</n>. <n>[Then you will possess]</n> an inexhaustible treasure in heaven, where no thief can approach, nor moth destroy.


text:
For wherever you store your valuables, that is where your heart <n>[i.e., your real concern]</n> will be also.


text:
and be like men expecting their master to return from the wedding reception, so that when he does come and knock <n>[at the groom’s house, See note on Matt. 25:1-12]</n>, they will immediately open <n>[the door]</n> to him.


text:
Those slaves whom their master finds being watchful when he returns are <n>[certainly]</n> blessed. Truly I tell you, he will fasten his belt <n>[i.e., get things ready]</n> and have them recline <n>[at his dinner table]</n> and will come and serve them.


text:
And if he comes between nine o’clock and midnight or between midnight and three o’clock in the morning and finds them being watchful, those slaves will be blessed <n>[for doing so]</n>.


text:
But you should realize this, if the owner of the house had known exactly when the burglar was coming, he would not have allowed his house to be broken into.


text:
Then Peter said, “Lord, are you telling this parable for our benefit <n>[only]</n> or for all people?”


text:
And the Lord answered, “Who then is the trustworthy and sensible property manager, to whom his master will assign the management of his household, to provide adequate and timely meals for its members?


text:
But if that slave should think to himself, ‘My master will not be back soon,’ and then becomes physically abusive to his men and women servants, and eats and drinks and gets drunk,


text:
that slave’s master will return on a day that he least expects, and at an hour unknown <n>[to him]</n>. And <n>[that master]</n> will whip him to shreds and will turn him over to suffer the same fate as unfaithful servants receive.


text:
And that slave who knew what his master wanted, but did not make preparations <n>[i.e., for his master’s return]</n>, or do what his master wanted, will be whipped with many lashes.


text:
But the one who did not know <n>[i.e., what his master wanted]</n>, yet did things deserving of punishment, will be whipped with few lashes. And to the person who has been given much <n>[responsibility]</n>, there will be much required <n>[of him]</n>. And to whom people entrust much <n>[responsibility]</n>, they will ask <n>[much]</n> more from him.


text:
“I have come to bring fire to the earth. <n>[Note: This means division within families. See verses 51-53]</n> And how I wish that fire were already started <n>[i.e., so I could complete my mission sooner]</n>!


text:
But I have an immersion to experience <n>[i.e., overwhelming suffering to undergo. See Mark 10:38-39]</n>, and what stress I am under until it happens!


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Do you think that I came to bring <n>[only]</n> peace to the earth? No, I tell you, but division instead.


text:
For from now on there will be a household of five persons divided <n>[against one another]</n>, three against two and two against three.


text:
And a father will be divided against his son and the son against his father; a mother <n>[will be divided]</n> against her daughter and the daughter against her mother; a mother-in-law <n>[will be divided]</n> against her daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.”


text:
And Jesus also said to the crowds, “When you see a cloud rising in the west, you immediately say, ‘A rainstorm is coming up,’ and sure enough, it does.


text:
And when there is a south wind blowing, you say, ‘It is going to be a scorching day,’ and sure enough, it is.


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You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky, but why do you not know how to interpret <n>[events of]</n> this present time?


text:
And while you are on your way to court with your opponent, make every effort to be reconciled <n>[to him]</n> so that he does not drag you in front of the judge, and then the judge turns you over to the officer, and the officer throws you into prison.


text:
I tell you, you will not be released from there until you have paid the last coin <n>[Note: This coin amounted to about five minutes of a farm laborer’s pay, or about seventy-five cents in 2005]</n>.”


text:
Now there were some there at that very time who told Jesus about some people from Galilee whose blood Pilate <n>[the Roman governor]</n> had mixed with their sacrifices <n>[i.e., he had them murdered while they were offering their sacrifices]</n>.


text:
And He answered them, “Do you think those Galileans were worse sinners than all <n>[other]</n> Galileans because they suffered such a fate?


text:
No, I tell you; but unless you repent <n>[i.e., change your hearts and lives]</n>, you <n>[too]</n> will all be destroyed just as they were.


text:
Or do you think that those eighteen persons who were killed when the tower of Siloam fell on them were worse offenders than all the <n>[other]</n> men who lived in Jerusalem?


text:
Then He told them this parable: “A certain man had a fig tree <n>[which had been]</n> planted in his orchard. When he came looking for figs on it, he did not find any.


text:
So, he said to the orchard worker, ‘Look, I have been coming <n>[here]</n> looking for figs for three years now, but have not found any. Cut down the tree, <n>[for]</n> why should it waste the space <n>[i.e., by not producing]</n>?’


text:
And the orchard worker answered him, ‘Leave it alone for <n>[just]</n> this year, sir, until I cultivate it and fertilize it.


text:
And <n>[then]</n> if it begins to produce, fine; but if it does not, <n>[then]</n> you should cut it down.’”


text:
And just then <n>[He met]</n> a woman who had an <n>[evil]</n> spirit that had caused her to be deformed for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not raise herself up. <n>[Note: This was probably osteomyelitis or osteoporosis]</n>.


text:
And when Jesus saw her, He called and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your deformed condition.”


text:
But the official of the synagogue became angry because Jesus had healed <n>[someone]</n> on the Sabbath day. <n>[Note: This was viewed as a violation of proper Sabbath day observance by certain Jews who interpreted the Law of Moses with narrow legalism]</n>. So, the official said to the crowd, “There are six days <n>[in the week]</n> for people to work. Therefore, you should come to be healed on one of them, and not on the Sabbath day.”


text:
But the Lord answered them, “You hypocrites! Does not every one of you untie his ox or his donkey from its stall and lead it to water on the Sabbath day?


text:
So, should not this woman, being a daughter <n>[i.e., descendant]</n> of Abraham, whom Satan has bound <n>[with this disease]</n> for eighteen years, have been released from this bondage on the Sabbath day?”


text:
And as He said these things, all of His enemies felt ashamed <n>[i.e., for objecting to such a noble act]</n>, but the whole crowd rejoiced over all the wonderful things He was doing.


text:
It is similar to a seed from the mustard tree, which a man took and planted in his garden. And it grew and became a <n>[large]</n> tree, and the birds of the sky roosted in its branches.”


text:
It is similar to yeast, which a woman worked into three batches of dough, until the dough was completely permeated <n>[by it]</n>.”


text:
Then Jesus went through <n>[various]</n> towns and villages, teaching as He traveled on to Jerusalem.


text:
<n>[Along the way]</n> someone asked Him, “Lord, will <n>[only]</n> a few people be saved?” And He answered them,


text:
“You should try hard to enter <n>[God’s kingdom]</n> by means of the narrow door, for I tell you, many people will try to enter it but will not be able to.


text:
Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, leaving you standing outside knocking on the door, <n>[and]</n> saying, ‘Sir, <n>[please]</n> open <n>[the door]</n> for us,’ and he answers you, ‘I do not know you or where you came from,’


text:
And He will say <n>[i.e., the Lord is represented as saying this in the judgment. See Matt. 7:23; 8:11- 12]</n>, ‘I tell you, I do not know where you came from, <n>[so]</n> go away from me, all you people who have done sinful things.’


text:
<n>[Then]</n> there will be crying and excruciating pain, when you will see Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God and <n>[you will see]</n> yourselves thrown outside.


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And people will come from the east and west and from the north and south to sit down in the kingdom of God.


text:
And certainly, those <n>[who appear to be]</n> last will be first <n>[i.e., in importance and blessings]</n>, and those <n>[who appear to be]</n> first will <n>[end up]</n> being last.”


text:
At that very time certain Pharisees came to Jesus saying, “Get out of here and go someplace else, for King Herod wants to kill you.”


text:
And He said to them, “Go and tell that fox <n>[Note: This is a metaphor signifying the sly, cunning nature of King Herod]</n>, ‘Look, I am driving out evil spirits and performing <n>[miraculous]</n> healings today and tomorrow, but on the third day I will be finished.’


text:
Nevertheless, I must continue to travel today and tomorrow and the next day, for it is not possible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.


text:
“O, Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you people who murdered the prophets and stoned those who were sent to you! How often I have wanted to gather you people together, even as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!


text:
Look, your house <n>[i.e., the Jewish Temple]</n> is being abandoned <n>[by me (?)]</n>. You will not see me until <n>[the time when]</n> you will be saying, ‘Praise the One who is coming in the name of the Lord.’”


text:
And it happened on a Sabbath day, when Jesus went to the house of one of the leading Pharisees for a meal, that they <n>[i.e., probably other Pharisees who were also guests]</n> were watching Him closely.


text:
And there He saw a certain man suffering from dropsy <n>[Note: This is a condition in which the tissues of the body retain too much fluid]</n>.


text:
So, Jesus asked the teachers of the Law of Moses and the Pharisees, saying, “Is it permissible by the Law of Moses to heal people on the Sabbath day, or not?”


text:
But they did not say anything. So, Jesus took hold of the <n>[sick]</n> man, and <n>[after]</n> healing him, sent him away.


text:
Then He said to them, “Which one of you, who has a son or an ox that falls into a well, would not immediately pull him out on a Sabbath day?”


text:
Then Jesus told a parable to those who had been invited <n>[i.e., the dinner guests at the Pharisee’s house. See verse 1]</n> because He noticed how they were choosing places of honor <n>[at the dinner table]</n>. <n>[So]</n>, He said to them,


text:
“When somebody invites you to a wedding reception, do not recline at the head of the table <n>[Note: See Matt. 23:6]</n>, for maybe someone more honorable than you has been invited by the host.


text:
Then the one who invited both of you will come <n>[over]</n> and say to you, ‘Give this man your seat <n>[at the table]</n>,’ and then you will be embarrassed and have to move to the least important seat.


text:
But when you are invited <n>[i.e., to a wedding reception]</n>, go and recline at the least important seat, so that when the host comes <n>[over to you]</n>, he will say, ‘Friend, move up to a better seat.’ Then you will be shown honor in front of everyone at the dinner table.


text:
For every person who exalts himself <n>[as important]</n> will be humbled, but the person who humbles himself will be exalted <n>[as important]</n>.”


text:
Then Jesus also said to the Pharisee who had invited Him <n>[to dinner]</n>, “When you prepare a breakfast or a supper, do not invite your friends, or brothers, or relatives or rich neighbors <n>[only]</n>, for maybe they will invite you back, and <n>[then]</n> you will be repaid <n>[for your kindness]</n>.


text:
But when you prepare a banquet, invite people who are poor, handicapped, crippled and blind <n>[as well]</n>.


text:
Then you will receive a blessing, because these people do not have anything to pay you back with, for you will be paid back when righteous people are raised from the dead.”


text:
And when one of the people who were reclining at the <n>[supper]</n> table with Jesus heard this, he said to Him, “The person who will eat bread in the <n>[coming]</n> kingdom of God is <n>[certainly]</n> blessed.”


text:
When the supper was about ready, he sent his slave out to tell those who were invited, ‘Come, for everything is <n>[now]</n> ready.’


text:
Then all of them, in the same way, began to excuse themselves <n>[from attending]</n>. The first one said to the host, ‘I just bought some land and I need to go out and look it over, so please excuse me <n>[from attending the supper]</n>.’


text:
And another person said, ‘I just bought five teams of oxen and I need to go and try them out, so please excuse me <n>[from attending the supper]</n>.’


text:
Then the slave returned and told his master about these things. Then the master of the house became angry and said to his slave, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring people who are poor, and handicapped, and blind and crippled in here <n>[i.e., to the supper]</n>.’


text:
And the slave said, ‘Master, I did what you ordered me to do, and still there is room <n>[at the dinner table]</n>.’


text:
Then the master said to the slave, ‘Go out into the roads and along the brushy trails and urge people to attend <n>[the supper]</n> so that my house will be full <n>[of guests]</n>.’


text:
“If anyone comes to me <n>[i.e., to be my disciple]</n>, and does not hate his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brothers and sisters and, yes, even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.


text:
<n>[And]</n> whoever does not carry his own cross <n>[i.e., his responsibilities with all their difficulties]</n> and follow me cannot be my disciple.


text:
For which one of you who wants to build a <n>[lookout]</n> tower will not first sit down and calculate its cost, to see whether he has enough <n>[money and materiel]</n> to complete it?


text:
For if he does not, maybe after he has laid the foundation and <n>[then]</n> is not able to complete <n>[the tower]</n>, everyone who sees it will ridicule him,


text:
Or what king, planning to engage another king in war, will not first sit down and evaluate whether he will be able, with ten thousand <n>[soldiers]</n>, to defeat someone who attacks him with twenty thousand <n>[soldiers]</n>?


text:
Or maybe, while the enemy is still a long way off, he will send representatives to ask for peace terms.


text:
So therefore, every one of you who does not say ‘goodbye’ to everything he owns cannot be my disciple.


text:
Therefore salt is good, but if it loses its flavoring <n>[ability]</n>, how will it ever get it back again?


text:
It is not suitable for the soil <n>[i.e., for growing crops]</n> or for fertilizer, but <n>[only]</n> for people to throw out. <n>[See note on Matt. 5:13]</n>. The person who has ears to hear with ought to listen <n>[to this]</n> carefully.”


text:
And the Pharisees and experts in the Law of Moses both complained, saying, “This man welcomes worldly people and <n>[even]</n> eats with them.”


text:
“Which one of you who has a hundred sheep, and loses one of them, would not leave the ninety-nine in a deserted place and go looking for the lost one until he finds it?


text:
And when he gets home, he calls his friends and neighbors together and says to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I found my sheep that was lost.’


text:
I tell you that, in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinful person who repents <n>[i.e., changes his heart and life]</n>, than over ninety-nine persons who do not need to repent.


text:
“Or what woman, who has ten silver coins <n>[Note: These coins each amounted to about one twelve-hour day of a farm laborer’s pay, or about $108 in 2005]</n>, and if she loses one of them, would not light a lamp, sweep the house and search for it diligently until she finds it?


text:
And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I found the coin I had lost.’


text:
In the same way, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels <n>[i.e., in heaven (?)]</n> over one sinful person who repents.”


text:
The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, <n>[please]</n> give me my share of your property that I have coming.’ So, the father divided up what he had to live on <n>[with his two sons]</n>.


text:
And a few days later, this younger son gathered everything together and traveled to a distant country where he squandered his possessions in wild living.


text:
And when he had spent everything <n>[he had]</n>, a severe famine occurred in that country and he became desperate for food.


text:
So, he went to work for one of the citizens of that country who sent him to his fields to feed his hogs.


text:
Now he wanted to fill his stomach with the <n>[carob]</n> pods the hogs were eating, but no one gave him any <n>[or perhaps, anything else]</n>.


text:
But when he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread to eat, and here I am, dying from hunger!


text:
I will get up and go to my father and say to him, Father, I have sinned against <n>[the God of]</n> heaven and against you.


text:
I do not deserve to be called your son <n>[anymore]</n>. Consider me as <n>[just]</n> one of your hired servants.’


text:
So, he got up and went to his father. But while he was still some distance <n>[from the house]</n>, his father saw him and felt deep pity <n>[for him]</n>, so ran and embraced him and kissed him <n>[enthusiastically]</n>.


text:
Then the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against <n>[the God of]</n> heaven and against you. I do not deserve to be called your son.’


text:
But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly, bring out the best robe and put it on him. And put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet.


text:
For my son here was dead <n>[spiritually]</n>, but is <n>[now]</n> alive again. He was lost <n>[from me]</n>, but <n>[now]</n> is found.’ And they began to celebrate.


text:
Now the father’s older son was <n>[out]</n> in the field. And when he came in and got close to the house he heard music and dancing.


text:
And the servant said to him, ‘Your brother has come <n>[home]</n> and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he welcomed him back safe <n>[from harm]</n>.’


text:
But the older son got angry and refused to go into <n>[the house]</n>. So, his father came out and pleaded with him <n>[i.e., to come in and join the celebration]</n>.


text:
But he replied to his father, ‘Look, I have served you <n>[as a slave]</n> for all these years and have never disobeyed any of your orders, yet you never gave me <n>[even]</n> a young goat, so I could enjoy myself with my friends.


text:
But when this son of yours came <n>[home]</n>, after having squandered all you gave him on prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him.’


text:
But it was <n>[only]</n> proper that we celebrate and have a good time, for this brother of yours was dead <n>[spiritually]</n>, but is <n>[now]</n> alive again; he was lost <n>[from me]</n> but <n>[now]</n> is found.’”


text:
Then Jesus said to His disciples, “There was a certain rich man who had a property manager who was reported to be squandering his possessions.


text:
So, he called his property manager in and said to him, ‘What is this that I hear about you? Turn in a <n>[full]</n> report of <n>[all]</n> your financial transactions, for you are not working for me anymore.’


text:
Then the property manager said to himself, ‘What am I going to do since my master is taking away my job? I am not strong enough to dig <n>[i.e., as a farm laborer]</n>, and I am too ashamed to beg.


text:
I know what I will do, so when I am fired they <n>[i.e., his master’s customers]</n> will welcome me into their homes.’


text:
So, he called on each one of his master’s customers and said to the first one, ‘How much do you owe my master?’


text:
And he replied, ‘Eight hundred gallons of <n>[olive]</n> oil.’ And he said to him, ‘Take your contract and quickly sit down and write in four hundred <n>[gallons]</n>.’


text:
Then he said to another <n>[customer]</n>, ‘And how much do you owe <n>[him]</n>?’ And he answered, ‘One thousand bushels of wheat.’ The property manager said to him, ‘Take your contract and write eight hundred <n>[bushels]</n>.’


text:
So, his master commended the dishonest property manager for his shrewdness. For worldly people are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of light <n>[i.e., God’s people]</n>.


text:
Therefore, I tell you, make friends for yourselves by using worldly wealth, so that when it fails <n>[i.e., when you run out of money]</n> they <n>[i.e., the friends you made with its wise and benevolent use]</n> may welcome you into the eternal <n>[i.e., heavenly]</n> dwelling places. <n>[Note: The idea here seems to be that by your shrewd use of material possessions for the benefit of others, you are actually storing up treasures for yourself in heaven]</n>.


text:
“The person who is trustworthy in regard to very small matters, <n>[such as material possessions]</n> is also <n>[likely to be]</n> trustworthy in regard to large matters, <n>[such as spiritual values]</n>, and the person who does not do what is right in very small matters is also not <n>[likely]</n> to do what is right in large ones.


text:
If therefore you have not been trustworthy in worldly wealth, who will put you in charge of the true <n>[spiritual]</n> riches?


text:
And if you have not been trustworthy with what belongs to someone else, who will give you something of your own?


text:
No person can serve two masters, for he will either hate the one and love the other, or else he will cling to the one <n>[i.e., as a close friend]</n> and look down on the other. You cannot serve God and material things <n>[at the same time]</n>.”


text:
And He said to them, “You are people who claim to be just in the eyes of <n>[other]</n> people, but God knows <n>[what is in]</n> your hearts. For that which is held up as most important among people <n>[i.e., fame or fortune (?)]</n> is disgusting in the eyes of God.


text:
The Law of Moses and the prophets prophesied <n>[See Matt. 11:13]</n> until <n>[the time of]</n> John <n>[the Immerser]</n>. From that time onward the good news of the <n>[coming]</n> kingdom of God is <n>[being]</n> preached, and everyone is <n>[attempting to]</n> enter it forcibly <n>[i.e., before its appointed time. See Acts 1:6-7]</n>.


text:
But it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away <n>[i.e., to be destroyed. See II Pet. 3:3]</n>, than for one portion of a letter of the Law of Moses to be dropped.


text:
“Every person who divorces his wife and marries another woman becomes sexually unfaithful to her <n>[i.e., because he is still regarded by God as married to his first wife. See Matt. 19:9]</n>. And the person who marries someone who has been divorced by her husband commits sexual sin with her <n>[i.e., because she is still rightfully married to her first husband]</n>.


text:
“Now there was a certain rich man who was dressed in purple <n>[clothing]</n> and soft linen <n>[garments]</n> and who lived every day in pleasure and luxury.


text:
He longed to be fed with scraps that fell from the rich man’s table and even dogs came and licked his sores.


text:
And it happened that the beggar died and <n>[his spirit]</n> was carried away by angels to a place close to Abraham. And the rich man also died and <n>[his body]</n> was buried.


text:
And in the unseen place of departed spirits the rich man, who was being tormented, looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus close beside him.


text:
And he shouted out, ‘Forefather Abraham, take pity on me and send Lazarus <n>[to me]</n>, so he can dip the tip of his finger in water <n>[and touch]</n> my tongue to cool it, because I am in agony in these flames.’


text:
But Abraham said <n>[to him]</n>, ‘Son, remember how you enjoyed good things when you were alive <n>[on earth]</n> and how Lazarus had to put up with bad things? But now here <n>[i.e., in the unseen place of departed spirits]</n> he is being comforted and you are in agony.


text:
And besides all this, there is a huge chasm situated between us and you so that those who wanted to go from here to there <n>[where you are]</n> cannot do it. And no one can cross over from there to us <n>[over here]</n>.’


text:
Then the rich man said, ‘I beg you therefore, forefather <n>[Abraham]</n>, that you would send Lazarus to my father’s house,


text:
where I have five brothers. Then he could warn them so that they will not <n>[have to]</n> come to this <n>[terrible]</n> place of torment also.’


text:
But Abraham said, ‘They have <n>[the writings of]</n> Moses and the prophets; let them pay attention to them.’


text:
Then the rich man said, ‘No, forefather Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, <n>[then]</n> they will repent <n>[i.e., change their hearts and lives]</n>.’


text:
And Abraham replied, ‘If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded <n>[even]</n> if someone rises from the dead <n>[i.e., to come back and warn them]</n>.’”


text:
Then Jesus said to His disciples, “It is inevitable that occasions which cause people to be led astray <n>[from God]</n> will come, but it is too bad for that person who is responsible for it happening.


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It would be good <n>[i.e., better]</n> for him to have had a huge millstone tied around his neck and be thrown into the ocean <n>[Note: This “millstone” was a huge, circular stone rolled over grain to crush it and was moved by an animal walking in a circle]</n>, rather than having him cause one of these little ones <n>[i.e., humble followers of the Lord]</n> to be led astray <n>[from God]</n>.


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Pay attention to yourselves! “If your brother sins, rebuke him <n>[i.e., show him where he is wrong in hope of effecting a change]</n>; and if he repents <n>[i.e., changes his heart and life]</n>, forgive him.


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And if he sins against you seven times a day and <n>[then]</n> comes to you seven times and says, ‘I repent,’ you should forgive him.”


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And the Lord said, “If you had faith as <n>[small as]</n> a mustard tree seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and replanted in the ocean,’ and it would obey you.


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“But which of you, whose slave is plowing or tending sheep, will say to him when he comes in from the field, ‘Come and sit right down to eat’?


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Would you not say to him instead, ‘Prepare the food for my meal <n>[first]</n> and get ready to serve me until I have had enough to eat and drink and <n>[then]</n> afterward you can eat and drink <n>[yourself]</n>’?


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So, you too, after you have done everything you were told to, should say, ‘We are unworthy slaves. We have done <n>[only]</n> what we were supposed to do.’”


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And it happened as Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem that He passed along the border between Samaria and Galilee. <n>[Note: These were the next two provinces north of Judea]</n>.


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And as He entered a certain village, He was met by ten men with infectious skin diseases, who were standing some distance away <n>[Note: Restrictions in the Jewish law prevented contact with persons having infectious diseases. See Lev. 13:45ff]</n>,


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And when Jesus saw them, He said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” <n>[See Lev. 13:49; 14:2ff]</n>. And it happened, as they went <n>[along]</n>, that they were healed.


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And he fell on his face at Jesus’ feet and thanked Him. And he was a Samaritan. <n>[Note: Samaritans were despised by the Jews and regarded as a ‘half-breeds’]</n>.


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Jesus asked <n>[those standing nearby]</n>, “Were there not ten men <n>[who were]</n> healed? Where are the <n>[other]</n> nine?


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Then Jesus said to the one <n>[who had returned]</n>, “Get up and go on your way. Your faith has made you well.”


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And when He was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus answered them; “The kingdom of God will not come the way you are looking for it.


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People will not be saying, ‘Look, here <n>[it is]</n>!’ or ‘There <n>[it is]</n>!’ For in fact, the kingdom of God is <n>[now]</n> among you <n>[i.e., as represented by the presence and ministry of Jesus]</n>.”


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Then He said to the disciples, “The time is coming when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of man <n>[i.e., the time when the Messiah would deliver His people from tribulation]</n>, but you will not see it <n>[i.e., such deliverance would not occur during their lifetimes]</n>.


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And people will be saying to you, ‘Look, there <n>[He is]</n>! Look, here <n>[He is]</n>! Do not leave or follow after them.


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For the Son of man <n>[will come]</n> in His day just like lightning which flashes from one part of the sky and lights up the other part.


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People were eating and drinking and <n>[men were]</n> marrying and <n>[women]</n> were being given away in marriage <n>[right up]</n> until the day that Noah entered the ship and the Flood came and drowned them all.


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“It happened in a similar way in the days of Lot <n>[i.e., Abraham’s nephew]</n>. People were eating and drinking and buying and selling and planting and building.


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On that day, the person who is on a housetop <n>[Note: This was a flat area where people retired for rest, prayer, etc., with its stairway on the outside]</n>, whose belongings are <n>[still]</n> in his house, is not to go down and <n>[attempt to]</n> take any of them away. And the person who is in a field <n>[i.e., doing farm work]</n>, also is not to return <n>[to his house]</n>.


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Whatever person tries to gain <n>[everything to satisfy him in]</n> life <n>[here on earth]</n> will lose it <n>[i.e., never ending life]</n>. But whatever person <n>[is willing to]</n> lose <n>[the comforts and security of]</n> his life <n>[here on earth]</n> will preserve it <n>[for eternity]</n>.


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I tell you, on that night <n>[i.e., when Jesus returns. See verse 30]</n>, there will be two men in one bed; one will be taken <n>[i.e., to be with the Lord]</n> while the other one will be left <n>[i.e., to be punished by the Lord]</n>.


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There will be two women grinding grain together <n>[Note: This was done with a hand-operated millstone where two persons sat across from each other and rotated a circular stone over kernels of grain]</n>; one will be taken while the other one will be left.


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Some ancient manuscripts include this verse “There will be two men in a field <n>[i.e., doing farm work]</n>; one will be taken <n>[i.e., to be with the Lord]</n>, while the other one will be left <n>[i.e., to be punished by the Lord]</n>.” <n>[See Matt. 24:40]</n>


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And they asked Jesus, “Where <n>[will this happen]</n>, Lord?” And He answered them, “Wherever there is a <n>[dead]</n> body <n>[you will see]</n> vultures gathered there also.”


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Then Jesus told His disciples a parable for the purpose of showing them that they should pray continually and not become discouraged.


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There was <n>[also]</n> a widow in that <n>[same]</n> town who kept coming to the judge saying, ‘Grant me a <n>[favorable]</n> judgment against my opponent.’


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And for some time the judge refused to do it. But finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I do not revere God or respect man,


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I will grant her a <n>[favorable]</n> judgment because she keeps bothering me <n>[about the matter]</n> and is about to exhaust my patience by her persistent visits.’”


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So, will God not grant justice to His elect <n>[i.e., His people]</n> who call out to Him <n>[i.e., in prayer]</n> day and night? Will He be slow in helping them?


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I tell you, He will grant justice to them quickly. However, will the Son of man find <n>[very many]</n> believing people on the earth when He returns?”


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Then Jesus told this parable to certain ones who were relying on their own goodness and putting everyone else down:


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“Two men went up to the Temple <n>[in Jerusalem]</n> to pray. One of them was a Pharisee and the other one was a tax collector.


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The Pharisee stood up <n>[conspicuously]</n> and prayed about himself this way <n>[i.e., bragging to God about how good he was]</n>, ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people: swindlers, unjust, sexually unfaithful to their mates, or even like that tax collector <n>[over there]</n>.


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I fast <n>[i.e., going without food and/or drink for religious reasons]</n> twice a week and I give <n>[to God’s work]</n> a tenth of everything I get.’


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But the tax collector stood at a distance <n>[i.e., inconspicuously]</n> and would not even look up to heaven, but struck his chest <n>[i.e., in remorse]</n>, saying, ‘God, <n>[please]</n> have mercy on a sinner like me <n>[i.e., “cover over” or forgive my sins]</n>.’


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I tell you, this man went back home right with God instead of the other man. For every person who exalts himself <n>[as important]</n> will be humbled, but whoever humbles himself will be exalted <n>[as important]</n>.”


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People were bringing babies to Jesus so He could touch them <n>[i.e., to bestow a blessing on them]</n>, but when His disciples saw this, they spoke harshly to these people.


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But Jesus called His disciples to Him and said, “Allow these little children to come to me and stop trying to prevent them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these <n>[i.e., humble ones. See Matt. 19:14]</n>.


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Truly I tell you, whoever does not welcome the kingdom of God the way a little child does, that person will by no means enter it.”


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Then a certain ruler <n>[Note: This man was young and rich. See Matt. 19:16-22]</n> asked Jesus, “Good Teacher, what should I do in order to inherit never ending life?”


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You know the commandments: Do not be sexually unfaithful to your mate. Do not murder. Do not steal. Do not give false testimony. Show honor to your father and mother.”


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And the ruler replied, “I have <n>[already]</n> been observing all of these commandments since I was <n>[very]</n> young.”


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When Jesus heard this He said to him, “<n>[There is]</n> one thing you still lack. Sell all your possessions and distribute <n>[the money]</n> to poor people; become my follower, <n>[and then]</n> you will have treasure in heaven.”


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Now Jesus looked at him and said, “How difficult <n>[it is]</n> for those who are wealthy to enter the kingdom of God!


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For it is <n>[actually]</n> easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a wealthy person to enter the kingdom of God.”


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Jesus answered, “The things that are impossible with people are <n>[certainly]</n> possible with God.”


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And Jesus said to the disciples, “Truly I tell you, there is no person who has left his house, or wife, or brothers, or parents, or children for the sake of the kingdom of God <n>[i.e., to become a servant of the Lord]</n>,


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who will not receive <n>[back]</n> many times as much <n>[as he left in this life]</n>, and never ending life in the coming age.”


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Then Jesus took the twelve apostles with Him, saying to them, “Look, we are going up to Jerusalem and <n>[while there]</n> everything written in <n>[the writings of]</n> the prophets will be fulfilled concerning the Son of man.


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For He will be turned over to the <n>[unconverted]</n> Gentiles, and will be mocked, and insulted and spit on.


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<n>[The Romans]</n> will flog Him and kill Him, but on the third day He will rise again <n>[from the dead]</n>.”


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But His disciples did not understand <n>[what He meant by]</n> any of these things, for this message was hidden from them so they did not comprehend what He was saying.


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And it happened as Jesus was approaching Jericho <n>[Note: This was a town about eighteen miles northeast of Jerusalem]</n>, that a certain blind man was <n>[seen]</n> sitting along side of the road, begging.


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But those walking in front <n>[of Jesus]</n> spoke harshly to the blind beggar, telling him to be quiet. But he continued shouting all the more, “You son of David, take pity on me.”


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So, Jesus stopped and ordered the beggar to be brought to Him. And when he came near, Jesus asked him,


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And immediately his sight was restored and he followed Jesus, giving honor to God. And when all the people saw this, they <n>[too]</n> praised God.


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He was trying to see which one was Jesus, but could not due to the large crowd and <n>[because]</n> he was so short.


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So, he ran on ahead <n>[of the crowd]</n> and climbed up a mulberry tree <n>[Note: This was a tree that produced a fig-like fruit]</n> in order to see Jesus, who was supposed to pass that way <n>[soon]</n>.


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And when Jesus came to the tree, He said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down <n>[from that tree]</n>, for I need to stay at your house today.”


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And when the crowd saw this, they began complaining <n>[i.e., because Zacchaeus was a despised tax collector]</n> and said, “He is going to lodge with a sinful man.”


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Then Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord, I <n>[plan to]</n> give half of my possessions to poor people. And if I have cheated anyone out of something, <n>[I promise]</n> to repay them four times as much.”


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Then Jesus said to him, “Salvation has come to this house today, since he too <n>[i.e., Zacchaeus]</n> is a descendant of Abraham.


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And as the crowd listened to these things, Jesus told them another parable, because He was close to Jerusalem and they assumed the kingdom of God was going to appear right away.


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So, He said, “A certain distinguished gentleman went to a distant country to receive a royal appointment <n>[i.e., as king over a territory]</n> and then return. <n>[Note: This is the only parable of Jesus’ that correlates with a known incident; that of Herod’s son Archelaus going to Rome to receive from Caesar Augustus an appointment to rule over Judea, Samaria and Idumaea in 4 B.C. See Matt. 2:22]</n>.


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So, he called ten of his slaves and gave each of them a sum of money <n>[Note: The amount of each sum was equivalent to one hundred twelve-hour days of a farm laborer’s pay, or about $10,800 in 2005]</n>. <n>[Then]</n> he said to them, ‘Invest this money until I return.’


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But the citizens <n>[of his newly acquired kingdom]</n> hated him and sent a delegation after him <n>[i.e., to the person who appointed the gentleman king over them]</n>, saying, ‘We do not want this man to rule over us.’


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And it happened when the gentleman returned, having received his appointment as king, that he ordered the slaves to whom he had given the <n>[sums of]</n> money, to report to him. He wanted to find out how much <n>[money]</n> they had made on their investments.


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So, the first one appeared in front of him, and said, ‘Master, your sum of money has earned ten times more.’


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And the gentleman replied, ‘Well done, you are a good slave. Because you have proven trustworthy over a <n>[relatively]</n> very small matter, you will <n>[now]</n> have charge over ten towns.’


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Then another slave appeared and said, ‘Look, master, here is your sum of money. I kept it <n>[safely]</n> wrapped up in a cloth,


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for I was afraid of you, knowing you are a hard man to deal with and that you pick up <n>[and keep]</n> something you did not lay down <n>[i.e., lose]</n>, and you harvest a crop that you did not plant.’


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The gentleman replied to him, ‘I will judge you <n>[based]</n> on what you <n>[yourself]</n> have <n>[just]</n> said, you evil slave. <n>[Since]</n> you knew that I am a hard man to deal with, picking up <n>[and keeping]</n> something I had not laid down, and harvesting a crop I had not planted,


