Jesus Took Care of Us

By Mary Vee
Mark 6, Matthew 14

From Matthew's Journal 

Sea of Galilee. Israel. Photo by Mary Vee

Jesus had asked us, his apostles, to go to cities and villages and teach his message, which is the Gospel. Before we left, He made sure we understood what to do and asked us to go in groups of two.

We've been gone for a time, and I must admit, I'm glad I went. So many men and women are anxious to hear what Jesus has to teach. So many are in need of healing. When we did as Jesus said, great miracles happened.

We returned at the appointed time and met with Jesus. We all had so much to share. Such great stories of our experiences.

There were many people coming and going around us, wanting to hear from Jesus and wanting to speak with him that we didn't get a chance to eat. I was hungry and needed a break.

Jesus noticed our need and said, "Come with me. Just you apostles. We'll go to a quiet place and get some rest." He always took care of our needs.

We climbed into a boat, just Jesus and his apostles. The water was peaceful and the sky clear. We were able to rest and talk. The ride took just enough time to restore us.

Many of the men and women whom we left on shore saw the direction we were headed. They ran on foot and told others along the way where we were going. 

The boat eased to the shore on the other side. A large crowd had gathered. They waved and called out to Jesus. I looked at him and saw the same compassion he'd showed me. These people were like sheep without a shepherd. 

We docked the boat and stepped onto shore. The crowd hushed. They were waiting for Him to speak. 

Jesus welcomed them and taught them about the kingdom of God. He healed those who needed healing. We moved to a hill so the people could sit and still hear Jesus.

The time of year was near the Jewish Passover Feast.

 Come back to read the next story.

*Author of blog's note: If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section. I will see them and will answer as best I can or direct you to a source.


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sources: 
*A Harmony of the Gospels for Historical Study, An Analytical Synopsis of the Four Gospels by William Arnold Stevens and Ernest DeWitt Burton, Charles Scribner's Sons, New York 1932
*New International Version, New King James Version. 
*My Bible College training.
*My notes and walk through classes I've taught in Children's church. Answers to student questions, etc.
*Pastoral sermons on this time
*Matthew Henry Commentary
*F. LaGard Smith Commentary
*My notes from my trip to Israel.
*Photos from my trip to Israel.

Who Ruined Herod's Birthday Party?

By Mary Vee
Mark 6

From Herod's Journal 

What remains of one of Herod's palaces - Israel
photo by Mary Vee

My name is Herod. I am a king and rule from Jerusalem. I'm not a Jew, but have been given this position from my connections in Rome.

I have heard of a man who is gaining a lot of attention in Israel. He travels through the cities and villages with his disciples healing the sick, performing miracles, and teaching about God in Heaven.

We've had many men rise up and gather followers. They usually want political power. Most of the time these groups die out, and I don't have to worry about them. If they gain too many followers, I send my army to squash them. 

This new man that has gathered many followers and has become well known in the land, is a mystery. His name is Jesus.

I called my counsel together. "Tell me about this man who has risen to such popularity."

The counsel answered, "Some say he is John the Baptist raised from the dead and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him."

Others said, "He is Elijah."

And still others claimed, "He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of long ago."

Their words upset me. "John has been raised from the dead! I beheaded John. Who then, is this man I'm hearing about?"

From that moment on I wanted to see this man called Jesus and know for myself who he really was.

I remember the day I beheaded John the Baptist. I gave orders to have him arrested. Had him bound and put in prison. I had to. I had to. John the Baptist created such a stir. He came to my palace and had the nerve to say I had done something unlawful. Well, I did. I had my brother Philip killed so that I would be king then I married his wife, Herodias. But I am king and can do as I wish.

Herodias heard about John the Baptist's accusations. From that moment on she carried a grudge so vehemately she wanted him killed. I couldn't let her do that. This man made me nervous. He said things with such authority. I protected him. I had to, he was a righteous and holy man.

Every time this man spoke his words puzzled me, yet I couldn't resist hearing what he had to say. 

One year I gave a banquet and invited my high officials, military commanders, and the leading men of Galilee to celebrate my birthday. The food poured out of the kitchens. The hall decorated in all the best. Everyone had a wonderful time. At the end of the meal, I ordered the entertainment to begin.

Herodias' daughter entered the room. The music began. The next several moments voices stilled. Her dance thoroughly pleased me and my dinner guests.

I had to reward her. "Ask me for anything you want, and I'll give it to you. Whatever you ask I will give it to you, up to half of my kingdom."

"I need a moment." She met her mother at the doorway and spoke with her then returned. "I would like you to give me the head of John the Baptist on a silver platter."

I never expected her to say that. Had I known, I would have pharased my reward differently. Her request upset me terribly, but I had to honor it. I had said I would give what she asked in front of all my guests. My word must be honorable. 

My smile and pleasure in her dance had long left. I inhaled deeply and did the only thing I could. I called for an executioner to go to the prison where John had been safely protected. "Bring me back the head of John the Baptist.

The man left the room. Any celebration after that point was pure show. Happiness had completely left me. 

The executioner left the hall, beheaded John in the prison, and brought back John's head on a platter. He presented it to Herodias' daughter. She accepted the platter and took it to her mother.

John's disciples came later that evening requesting his body for burial. I, of course, had it given to them.

In the next days I wanted to find out who this Jesus really was.

 Come back to read the next story.

*Author of blog's note: If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section. I will see them and will answer as best I can or direct you to a source.


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sources: 
*A Harmony of the Gospels for Historical Study, An Analytical Synopsis of the Four Gospels by William Arnold Stevens and Ernest DeWitt Burton, Charles Scribner's Sons, New York 1932
*New International Version, New King James Version. 
*My Bible College training.
*My notes and walk through classes I've taught in Children's church. Answers to student questions, etc.
*Pastoral sermons on this time
*Matthew Henry Commentary
*F. LaGard Smith Commentary
*My notes from my trip to Israel.
*Photos from my trip to Israel.

Jesus Asked Us To Go and Tell His Message

By Mary Vee
Matthew 10

From Matthew's Journal 

Photo by Mary Vee

My name is Matthew. I am a disciple, a follower of Jesus. I and the other disciples have listened to Jesus teach for a while and have learned a lot from Him. 

Jesus spoke to the twelve of us, whom He called His closest disciples, away from the crowds many times. He taught us deep truths, their meanings, and today, He gave us warnings. 

The warnings are to prepare us for when we go out and share Jesus' teachings. Here is what He told us today: 

"Those who stand up for me and my teachings I will stand up for to my heavenly Father. Those who are embarrassed or don't stand up for me to others, I will do the same before my heavenly Father.

"If you think I came to bring peace, you're wrong. I came with a sharp sword to divide 
a man against his father
a daughter against her mother
a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law
a man's enemies will be the members of his own household

"Those who love anyone or anything more than me have nothing to do with me. Give up everything that holds your attention. Focus your thoughts and actions on me. 

"When you go out and teach people, there will be those who will accept you. Those who accept you, accept me, the One who has sent you. Those who accept Me, accept the Father who has sent Me.

"Anyone who accepts the words of a messenger of God will receive the same reward as the messenger."


And with those last words of instruction, Jesus sent us on our way. Jesus took on the same assignment as we twelve disciples: go to the towns in Israel. Teach and preach the gospel and heal people in the name of Jesus.

This was our chance to remember and show what Jesus taught us. As the days went by, the job became easier. The disciple who went with me and I figured out a system and traded duties. 

When I first listened to Jesus I was interested in learning. I didn't think I would become one who would teach others His message. But here I am. And I find I truly enjoy this work.

 Come back to read the next story.

*Author of blog's note: If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section. I will see them and will answer as best I can or direct you to a source.


*********************************************************************************************

sources: 
*A Harmony of the Gospels for Historical Study, An Analytical Synopsis of the Four Gospels by William Arnold Stevens and Ernest DeWitt Burton, Charles Scribner's Sons, New York 1932
*New International Version, New King James Version. 
*My Bible College training.
*My notes and walk through classes I've taught in Children's church. Answers to student questions, etc.
*Pastoral sermons on this time
*Matthew Henry Commentary
*F. LaGard Smith Commentary
*My notes from my trip to Israel.
*Photos from my trip to Israel.

Stands Strong Against Bullies

By Mary Vee
Matthew 10

From Matthew's Journal 

Photo by Mary Vee

My name is Matthew. I am a disciple, a follower of Jesus. I and the other disciples have listened to Jesus teach for a while. 

Jesus gathered we twelve disciples and gave us an interesting assignement. He felt we had learned what we needed to carry on this project. 

We were to go in teams to cities not yet visited by Jesus. Teach the people His teachings. Heal the sick. And help the people. In the last two posts below this one you can see what He has said to prepare us for this mission. Here is what he said next:

"People will realize you are talking about a living God and not some idol they have worshiped. They will be offended and angry. They will turn against you because you bring my message. Don't quit. Stand firm to the end. Your strength and faith will be worth all you experience in the end. You are not after success. That is God's business. You are after survival and the continued teaching of my truth. And don't worry. Before you run out of options, the Son of Man will have arrived. 

"At times this will be a difficult task for you. A student is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. All the student must do is to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. There are those who have called me Beelzebub, sadly, they will do the same to you. Don't let this stop you. Soon everyone will know the truth. Stand strong. Don't hesitate to complete this mission.

"I have taught you hidden meanings to my teachings in private. Take these and tell the people. Don't be afraid of those who threaten you. They are bullies who may even kill you. And while what the bully says and does may frighten you, the one who should be feared is the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 

"Think of a small sparrow. Two are sold for only a penny. God cares about what may happen to that bird even more than you do. So don't be intimidated by those who threaten you. You are worth more to God than many sparrows.


I thought about his warnings. What all could happen to us while we were gone. The assignment seemed scary in a way. Exciting in another. Jesus didn't send us just yet. He taught us more before we left. I'll share that next time.

 Come back to read the next story.

*Author of blog's note: If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section. I will see them and will answer as best I can or direct you to a source.


*********************************************************************************************

sources: 
*A Harmony of the Gospels for Historical Study, An Analytical Synopsis of the Four Gospels by William Arnold Stevens and Ernest DeWitt Burton, Charles Scribner's Sons, New York 1932
*New International Version, New King James Version. 
*My Bible College training.
*My notes and walk through classes I've taught in Children's church. Answers to student questions, etc.
*Pastoral sermons on this time
*Matthew Henry Commentary
*F. LaGard Smith Commentary
*My notes from my trip to Israel.
*Photos from my trip to Israel.

If Anyone Rejects You

By Mary Vee
Matthew 10

From Matthew's Journal 

Photo by Mary Vee

My name is Matthew. I am a disciple, a follower of Jesus. I and the other disciples have listened to Jesus teach for a while. After teaching the crowds, He always took us aside to explain special meanings in his message to us. Today I learned why He only explained the meanings to the disciples.

Jesus met with the twelve of us. He wanted us to go in teams to cities in Israel He hadn't visited yet. He asked us to teach the people what He'd taught. Do what He showed us. Have compassion like He had for us. 

He then said, "Whatever town or village you enter, look for a worthy person and stay at his house until you leave. Then, as you enter the home, give it your greeting. If the home is deserving, let your peace rest on it. If it is not deserving, let your peace return to you. If anyone in that home will not welcome you, leave and go to another. And if anyone in the city will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet as you leave. You know how the cities Sodom and Gomorrah have been judged, right?"

We answered yes.

"On the day of judgement, Sodom and Gomorrah will bear what happens easier than any home or city that rejects you."

While the crowds stood in the distance waiting to hear Jesus speak, He gave us more instructions.

"I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. You must be shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.

"Be on your guard against the men you meet. They will hand you over to the local councils and have you whipped in the synogogues for your words. Because of me, you will be brought before govenors and kings as witnesses to share what I've taught you. But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you."

I thought about his warnings. What all could happen to us while we were gone. The assignment seemed scary in a way. Exciting in another. Jesus didn't send us just yet. He taught us more before we left. I'll share that next time.

 Come back to read the next story.

*Author of blog's note: If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section. I will see them and will answer as best I can or direct you to a source.


*********************************************************************************************

sources: 
*A Harmony of the Gospels for Historical Study, An Analytical Synopsis of the Four Gospels by William Arnold Stevens and Ernest DeWitt Burton, Charles Scribner's Sons, New York 1932
*New International Version, New King James Version. 
*My Bible College training.
*My notes and walk through classes I've taught in Children's church. Answers to student questions, etc.
*Pastoral sermons on this time
*Matthew Henry Commentary
*F. LaGard Smith Commentary
*My notes from my trip to Israel.
*Photos from my trip to Israel.

Disciple Matthew: Jesus Rescued Me.

By Mary Vee
Matthew 9

From Matthew's Journal 

Photo by Mary Vee

My name is Matthew. I am a disciple, a follower of Jesus. A while back, I collected taxes. I wasn't very honest. Once I heard Jesus speak, I couldn't do that work anymore. I left that job and, with Jesus' invitation, became one of the twelve chosen disciples. 

His teachings made me think. Caused me to change my thoughts. I learned about God and what God wanted us, His creation, to do during our lives. I didn't want to miss any of Jesus' teachings. Each one spoke to my thoughts so I gladly followed Him.

After our visit to Nazareth, I felt embarrassed. The people there were so cruel to Jesus. This was his hometown! Jesus wanted to teach and heal more men and women while there, but they only laughed at Him and mocked Him.

So, we left.

The other disciples and a good number of other followers went with Jesus to many towns and villages. He preached in their synagogues, teaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. The people of Nazareth could have had this too if only they'd listened to Him.

Jesus' eyes showed his compassion on the crowds. He told us those men and women had been harassed and felt helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. It was after all of this training that He said to us, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field."

Jesus then called the twelve chosen disciples close. He asked us to go out, two by two and gave us the authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and sickness, just like He had.

The idea seemed exciting, and a bit scary.

Jesus said, "Don't go where the Gentiles live or enter any town of the Samaritans. Go to the lost sheep of Israel."

If I had to guess why He said that, I would say we understood the ways of our fellow Israelites and could relate better to them.

Jesus then said, "As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.' While you are with the people, heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give to all you meet. Don't take any gold, silver, or copper with you. Don't' pack anything for the journey including an extra tunic or sandals or staff. For as a worker, you are worth your keep. The things you need will be given to you by the people you meet."

I was excited about the idea and couldn't wait to share with my countrymen about Jesus and His teachings. He'd rescued me from a life that hurt others and accepted me. They could be rescued too.

 Come back to read the next story.

*Author of blog's note: If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section. I will see them and will answer as best I can or direct you to a source.


*********************************************************************************************

sources: 
*A Harmony of the Gospels for Historical Study, An Analytical Synopsis of the Four Gospels by William Arnold Stevens and Ernest DeWitt Burton, Charles Scribner's Sons, New York 1932
*New International Version, New King James Version. 
*My Bible College training.
*My notes and walk through classes I've taught in Children's church. Answers to student questions, etc.
*Pastoral sermons on this time
*Matthew Henry Commentary
*F. LaGard Smith Commentary
*My notes from my trip to Israel.
*Photos from my trip to Israel.

When His Hometown Rejected Him

By Mary Vee
Mark 9

From Mark's Journal 

Photo by Mary Vee
Taken in Israel

My name is Mark. I was among the crowd watching what Jesus the teacher said and did each day, standing with his close disciples, witnessing the most amazing miracles, and hearing teachings filled with such wisdom.

Only moments ago, Jesus healed some blind men. Seeing the joy fill these men, giving them new life, reminded me why I wanted to follow Jesus.

While we were going out of a house, a man was brought to Jesus, guided by others. The one who needed help was demon-possessed and could not talk.

Jesus took pity on the man and cast the demon out, freeing him of his torment. 

When the crowds witnessed this action, they said, "Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel." They longed to hear him speak and to see more miracles.

Near that same crowd, a group of Pharisee stood. Their faces had anger. They said, "It is by the prince of demons that he drives out demons."

Well, that just didn't make any sense. Why would the prince of demons want his own demons cast out. I laughed quietly, not wanting to stir the Pharisees' anger.

Jesus didn't comment to them this time. He often spoke to the Pharisees about their focus on themselves. He left the city and walked to his hometown, Nazareth. Those dedicated to following Jesus's teachings went with him there. 

On the Sabbath day, Jesus entered the synagogue and sat. At the time for teachings, He stood and taught the people wisdom from God. 

The people were so surprised at what He said. "Where did this man get these words? What's this wisdom that has been given to him that he even does miracles? It couldn't be true. Isn't this the carpenter? He's just a carpenter. What right does He have to speak like this? Isn't this Mary's son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon? Aren't his sisters here with us? What makes him any better than us thinking he can teach us these things?"

The people continued saying rude and offensive words about Jesus for a time. 

Jesus said to them, "Only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor." 

Although Jesus wanted to help the sick and hurting people in his hometown, he couldn't do more than put his hands on a few sick people and heal them. And even those few did not have a strong faith like Jairus, or the woman healed by touching his garment, or the blind men that he'd healed yesterday near Capernaum.

 Come back to read the next story.

*Author of blog's note: If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section. I will see them and will answer as best I can or direct you to a source.


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sources: 
*A Harmony of the Gospels for Historical Study, An Analytical Synopsis of the Four Gospels by William Arnold Stevens and Ernest DeWitt Burton, Charles Scribner's Sons, New York 1932
*New International Version, New King James Version. 
*My Bible College training.
*My notes and walk through classes I've taught in Children's church. Answers to student questions, etc.
*Pastoral sermons on this time
*Matthew Henry Commentary
*F. LaGard Smith Commentary
*My notes from my trip to Israel.
*Photos from my trip to Israel.

They Told More Friends Who Told More Friends

By Mary Vee
Mark 9

From Mark's Journal 

Photo by Mary Vee
Taken in Israel

My name is Mark. I was among the crowd watching what Jesus the teacher said and did each day.

Jesus left Jairus' home and walked farther away from the sea. I enjoyed seeing Jairus and his wife rejoice over their daughter's healing. 

Others had seen or heard what Jesus did. His miracles amazed men and women so much so, words spread far and wide, which brought many more people who traveled great distances to hear Him speak and watch him help those in need.

Shortly after we left Jairus's house, two men called out to Jesus from the back of the crowd. A few men helped make a path for these men so the could reach Jesus.

They called out, "Have mercy on us, Son of David!"

Jesus walked on until he went inside a home.

The men helping the two blind ones, encouraged them to follow Jesus.

Inside the home, Jesus said, "Do you believe that I am able to help you?"

The blind men turned toward the voice and said, "Yes, Lord."

Jesus touched their eyes and said, "According to your faith, it will be done to you."

The men blinked.

They looked at Jesus, staring at his face.

They held their hands in front of their eyes then looked at each other.

That's when they laughed. And jumped. And laughed some more.

They looked around the room, and introduced their eyes to all that was around them.

Jesus said, "See that you tell no one about this."

But they couldn't help it. They left the house and immediately shared their experience with everyone they met. They told more friends who told more friends what Jesus did for them.

 Come back to read the next story.

*Author of blog's note: If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section. I will see them and will answer as best I can or direct you to a source.


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sources: 
*A Harmony of the Gospels for Historical Study, An Analytical Synopsis of the Four Gospels by William Arnold Stevens and Ernest DeWitt Burton, Charles Scribner's Sons, New York 1932
*New International Version, New King James Version. 
*My Bible College training.
*My notes and walk through classes I've taught in Children's church. Answers to student questions, etc.
*Pastoral sermons on this time
*Matthew Henry Commentary
*F. LaGard Smith Commentary
*My notes from my trip to Israel.
*Photos from my trip to Israel.

Jairus's Men Reported His Daughter Was Dead

By Mary Vee
Mark 5

From Jairus's Journal 

On the Sea of Galilee facing the shore where
this story takes place.
Photo by Mary Vee

My name is Jairus. I am a Jewish ruler of the synogogue. The other rulers don't want anything to do with a man named Jesus who has been walking throughout the land and talking with crowds. They are bothered that His teachings will lead the people away from following them.

We as rulers have expanded the sacred laws written and given by God to Moses to help the people better worship God. We want to hold the people to a high standard and by doing the things we say, God will love them more.

But this man, Jesus. Though he is a Jew, he is different. I'd heard he has healed people from their diseases. My daughter is close to death. Immediately after hearing that news, I didn't care that He didn't follow our rules, I only cared that He could heal a sick person and maybe, my daughter.

I love my sweet little girl so very much. I ran from my house to the shores of the Sea of Galilee in Capernaum to watch for Jesus' return and to beg Him to come heal my daughter. 

Moments ago he returned by boat with his disciples. Shortly after they stepped onto the shore, I ran to him, fell at his feet and begged him to come heal my daughter. I offered to do whatever he asked in return. He said he would help my little girl and turned to follow me. The crowds who came to see what Jesus would say today, followed us. 

We had a slight delay on the way. A woman apparently touched Jesus' garment. He stopped walking and called out to her. She came forward. I saw nothing wrong with her. She and the people around her affirmed she'd had a blood disease for many years. When I looked at her, she seemed completly healed. That is what I want for my daughter.

While Jesus was still speaking to the woman, some men from my house ran toward us. They craned their necks to see me. I waved to them. They broked through the crowd and delivered this message: "Your daughter is dead. Why bother the teacher any more."

I'd hardly had a chance to think about their message when Jesus turned and said, "Don't be afraid. Just believe."

We walked the rest of the way to my house. Jesus stopped at the door and told the crowds who were weeping and wailing, "You must stay outside." He then said, "Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep." The crowds laughed at him as though he was crazy. Jesus only let three of his disciples, Peter, James, and John come into my house after they said that.

I led them inside. My wife was weeping. Her eyes stained red. I put my arm on her and said, "All will be well. This is Jesus." She greeted him and pointed to our daughter's room. She led the way.

Jesus turned to those weeping in our home. "Do not follow us into the child's room."

We entered my child's room. There my darling daughter lay. Only twelve years old. Her eyes closed. Pale in skin. I could not see her breathe. She appeared dead. I drew in a breath and held back tears.

Jesus reached for my daughter's hand and wrapped his around hers. He said, "Talitha koum!" These words mean, "Little girl, I say to you, get up!"

Immediately my little girl's eyes opened. She looked up at Jesus and smiled. Her color returned to her face. She allowed Jesus to help her sit up then stand, but then she slid her hand away from his and walked around the room.

My heart raced with joy! I turned to my wife and hugged her. Her eyes still wide. Her smile, more joyful than I'd seen in a long time. 

Jesus smiled too. He had such peace on his face. This man who had stopped all he planned to came to my home and showed such kindness by healing my daughter said, "Don't tell anyone about this. Get your daughter something to eat right away."

My wife hurried out of the room to get her food. While she was gone, I hugged my daughter. My sweet daughter who was healed by Jesus.

We served Jesus and his men a meal. It was the least we could do. Actually, it was nothing compared to what Jesus did for us. He saved our daughter's life, and I will never forget.

 Come back to read the next story.

*Author of blog's note: If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section. I will see them and will answer as best I can or direct you to a source.


*********************************************************************************************

sources: 
*A Harmony of the Gospels for Historical Study, An Analytical Synopsis of the Four Gospels by William Arnold Stevens and Ernest DeWitt Burton, Charles Scribner's Sons, New York 1932
*New International Version, New King James Version. 
*My Bible College training.
*My notes and walk through classes I've taught in Children's church. Answers to student questions, etc.
*Pastoral sermons on this time
*Matthew Henry Commentary
*F. LaGard Smith Commentary
*My notes from my trip to Israel.
*Photos from my trip to Israel.