King James Bible - New Testament Book Notes

King James Bible - New Testament

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Author/Context

The King James' Bible is, of course, a translation of the original languages of the Bible including Aramaic, Hebrew and Greek. The Old Testament originally existed as an oral tradition. The dates for the first written copy of this tradition are incendiary and always in debate. The written text had gone through several recensions by the accepted time of birth of Jesus Christ (1 C.E.). The New Testament was composed in the decades, and centuries, following the death of Christ and during the rise of the new Christian Church. With the stratification of the Church the Bible became more uniform, yet there were always books whose origin and authenticity were called into question.

From the split of Christianity into the Roman Catholic and Greek Orthodox traditions, versions of the Bible were polarized along Latin and Greek lines. In Europe, the Latin Vulgate, prepared originally in the 4th century by St. Jerome, was the universal edition. This edition was used by the Catholic Church as the seat of religious and philosophical doxology. It was not until the Protestant Reformation that translations became common. Martin Luther made one of the first translations into German. In Switzerland, Calvinists, an early Protestant sect, made the first widely read English translation of the Bible.

England did not follow Germany into the Reformation. Henry VIII, in order to secure a divorce, ceded from the Catholic Church and made himself the head of the Anglican Church, or the Church of England. Since Theology was not his main concern, this early version of the church did not stray much from Roman Catholicism. Subsequent rulers, however, made more of an impact on the Church. Queen Elizabeth helped solidify the dogma of this institution with a series of laws and proclamations. When Queen Elizabeth died in 1603, her nephew, James VI of Scotland, became James I of England. Although derided for his sickly physical attributes, James became renowned as a 'scholar-king'. He knew Greek, Latin, and French, and was very concerned with theological debate.

The Puritans were the strongest religious force in England beside the church itself. For years they had embraced the Geneve Bible as a translation. When James I suggested that a translation may be in order, it was embraced by John Rainolds, a Puritan leader. In 1604, James' aides began gathering scholars to work on this translation. Around fifty scholars worked for the next five years. Unlike other translations at the time, this one was made from the original tongues rather than from St. Jerome's Latin Vulgate. The translations were worked together and edited for uniformity. It was published in 1610/11 with a lengthy dedication to the King of England and God.

The influence of this translation has been far-reaching. Prior to its conception, Christianity was primarily locked away in dead languages. The common people had little access to the document that was the cornerstone of their religious beliefs. The translation was also made by an array of the most able scholars and poets of the time. From its inception, the King James' Bible was intended to be a masterpiece. It has influenced generations of English speaking peoples from commoners to scholars to kings. Perhaps this is why Cleland Boyd McAffee calls it the "Greatest English Classic."

Bibliography

Goodspeed, Edgar J. How Came the Bible. Abingdon Press, New York: 1940.

McAffee, Cleland Boyd. The Greatest English Classic. Harper and Brothers, New York: 1912.

Opfell, Olga S. The King James Bible Translators. McFarland, London. 1912.

Paine, Gustavus, S. The Learned Men. Thomas Y. Crowell Company: 1834.

Plot Summary

The New Testament tells the story of Jesus' birth and life. His mother Mary conceived him through the power of the Holy Spirit. He was born in Bethlehem because his parents had traveled there for the census. Around age thirty, Jesus began to preach to the men of Judea. He gathered twelve disciples to learn his teachings and to help spread his lessons. Jesus' primary lessons were that there was only one God and the most important of his commandments was to love your neighbor as yourself. Unlike previous prophets, Jesus reached out to base people more than the virtuous. His message was that everyone could obtain salvation through God.

It revealed to some of his disciples that Jesus was the son of God. This had been prophesied in Jewish scripture. He entered the city of Jerusalem heralded as a King. In the city he continued to teach. He threw the sinners out of the Jewish Temple. On the feast of the Passover, Jesus revealed to his disciples that one of them would betray him and one would deny that he knew him three times before dawn. Jesus was betrayed by Judas and turned over to the hands of the authorities. At the request of the people, Jesus was condemned to crucifixion. He died on the cross. After three days they checked his tomb and found that he was gone. An angel reported that Jesus had risen from the dead. He appeared to some of the disciples and instructed them to spread his teaching throughout the world.

The rest of the New Testament tells the story of the Apostles and the early spread of Christianity. One of the most significant of these men was Paul. He was an Apostle who traveled to many cities and wrote letters to churches discussing faith and the doxology of the new church. These letters provided early guidance for church leaders. They discuss everything from who may follow Jesus to the importance of circumcision.

The last book of the New Testament is Revelations. It purports to be a vision from Jesus Christ given to John. It tells of the end of the world when Jesus will come back to judge men. The New Testament contains the books that provide the basis for modern Christianity.

Major Characters

Jesus Christ: The son of God born on Earth. Jesus is a teacher and a prophet. He revises the laws of the Old Testament into two primary commandments: there is only one God and love your neighbor as yourself. He caused great unrest in his time and alienated many of the Jews, the people he was sent to save. Unlike other prophets he embraced all people. He died on the cross and is said to have risen from the dead three days later. Christians believe all of this. Jews do not. Muslims believe that Jesus was a prophet.

God: The omnipotent and omniscient being who created the world. He destroyed it later because the people were wicked but preserved the animals and some of the people. He took some of these people as his chosen people and led them out of captivity. He made a covenant with them. They were to keep certain laws and he would make them prosper. When they did not keep up their half of the bargain, God punished them.

Minor Characters

Abraham: A descendant of Noah. He had no sons by his wife Sarah so he had sex with her handmaiden. His first son was Ishmael. God made a covenant with Abraham and decided to give him another son. His second son, by the long barren Sarah, was Isaac. God tested Abraham's faith by asking him to sacrifice Isaac. Abraham almost did it but God stopped him. Abraham was told by God that if he and his family were circumcised, they would remain his people

Joseph: The husband of Mary. Joseph was a carpenter. He was originally going to leave Mary when he found out about her pregnancy.

Mary: The mother of Jesus. An Angel told her about her pregnancy.

David: The second major King of the Jews. David killed the giant Goliath and followed Saul as the King. Solomon followed David.

King Herod: The King of Judea at the time of Jesus.

Peter: One of the disciples. Peter doubts Jesus when he walks on water and denies that he knows him three times.

Andrew: One of the disciples.

James: One of the disciples. He writes the Epistle of James

John: Another disciple. John is allegedly the author of the book of Revelations.

Philip: One of the disciples.

Bartholomew: Another disciple.

Thomas: The disciple who doubts that Jesus has really come back from the dead.

Matthew: A disciple.

James son of Alphaneus: Another disciple.

Simon the Canaanite: One of the disciples.

Lebbeus: One of the disciples.

Judas: The disciple who betrays Jesus for the price of thirty pieces of silver.

Jonah: The story of Jonah is described in the book of Jonah in the Old Testament. God calls him to be a prophet but he will not go without a sign. God puts him inside a whale for three days.

Moses: A son of the House of Levi, Moses was raised by a daughter of the Pharaoh. He came to talk with God and decided he must lead his people from a life of slavery in Egypt. He took them out and into the desert. In the desert he received the commandments of God and made the covenant. He made the Ark of the Covenant and led the people all the way to their promised land, Canaan. He died on a mountain before they entered the promised land.

Elias: A prophet who helped the Israelites near the time of David.

Caesar : The name Caesar comes originally from the family name of Julius Caesar. Rome ruled over Judea and Jerusalem in the time of Jesus. Augustus Caesar had become Emperor of Rome in 31 B.C.E. He reigned until 8 C.E. Subsequent emperors were also called Caesar.

Pilate: The Roman governor who condemned Jesus to crucifixion.

Barabbas: The criminal who was pardoned instead of Jesus.

Mary Magdalene: The woman who found that Jesus' body was absent from the tomb.

Joseph of Arimathea: The rich early follower of Jesus who secures his body from the executors.

Zecharias: A priest whose daughter bore John the Baptist.

Elisabeth: The mother of John the Baptist.

Devil: The antagonist of the later parts of the New Testament. In some accounts he is a fallen angel. In the second two Gospels it is said that he tempted Jesus.

Nicodemus: A Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin who meets Christ one night. He protests against the Sanhedrin's plotting against Christ and becomes a disciple.

Lazarus: The brother of Mary and Martha of Bethany. He was raised from the dead by Christ after four days in the tomb. This miracle shocked the Jews and they called for the death of both Jesus and Lazarus.

Barsabbas: One of the men who was chosen as a possible replacement for Judas. He was not actually chosen.

Matthias: One of the men who was chosen as a possible replacement for Judas. He was ultimately chosen.

Stephen: One of the early apostles. Stephen was killed for preaching about Jesus.

Philip: One of the early apostles.

Saul: Saul was an early persecutor of the Christians but he converted and became one of the foremost apostles. His name was later changed to Paul.

Cornelius: One of the early apostles.

Paul: Paul was the most prolific of the Apostles. He is the main character of Acts. He wrote Romans, Corinthians Colossians and more. Through his writings many of the customs and laws of the early church were developed.

Timotheus: Timothy was an associate of Paul and the recipient of 1 and 2 Timothy.

Titus: An associate of Paul and the recipient of Titus.

Philemon: The recipient of Philemon, an associate of Paul.

Gaius: An early Christian

Jude: The author of Epistle of Jude.

Gabriel: The angel who announced to Mary and Elisabeth that they had children coming.

Objects/Places

Holy Spirit: The spirit of The God that comes to Earth and inspires men.

Emmanuel: A name for Jesus given in the Old Testament.

Angel: An agent of God. Angels are neither men nor deities. They are often messengers but are also creatures of destruction.

Bethlehem: The city of Jesus' birth. It was also the city of David. This is why Joseph was reporting there for the census.

Jews: The chosen people of God in the Old Testament.

Judea: Although once part of Israel, Judea was split from the rest of the Jewish lands.

Centurion: A captain or officer in the Roman army.

twelve disciples: The twelve disciples were the twelve full-time attendants or follows of Jesus.

Sabbath: In Genesis, God rested on the seventh day of creation. In remembrance of this. Jews were supposed to rest on the seventh day of the week.

Gentile: A non-Jew.

resurrection: Jesus' rising from the dead.

Passover: The portion of the year that was to be kept in remembrance of the deliverance from Egypt. Israelites were to eat no leavened bread for seven days.

Son of Man: Another name for Jesus.

census: The reason May and Joseph were going to Bethlehem. Augustus Caesar ordered a census of all Roman controlled territories.

Samaritan: A man from Samaria.

Levite: A member of the tribe of Levi. This tribe was set apart by God to be priests in the Old Testament.

Samaria: A region east of Israel.

Messiah: The savior, another name for Jesus.

Calvary: The hill on which Jesus was crucified.

Jerusalem: The chief city of Judah and seat of the House of David. Jerusalem is a chief city in modern Israel and a site of contention between Israelis and Palestinians.

Temple: The Temple was the primary place of worship for the Jews. The first was destroyed when Babylon overcame Israel. The Romans destroyed the second after Jesus.

Pharisees: Jewish law-makers and scripture interpreters.

Apostles : The original heralds of Christianity. They went from city to city speaking of Jesus.

Sadducees: Lawmakers and doctors for the Jews.

Damascus: A city in Syria.

Antioch: A city in Asia-minor.

Macedonia: A region north of Greece.

Athens: The city on Attica in Greece.

Corinth: A Greek city north of Athens.

Ephesus: A Greek city on Asia minor.

Last Supper: This occurred on the night of the Passover Feast. It is when Jesus broke bread and shared wine. It is also when he revealed that he was going to be betrayed.

Communion: A ceremony repeating Jesus' actions at the last supper. Communion is still a vital part of Christian service today.

Galatia: A city in the Aegean.

Gospel: Gospel with a capitol G is what the teachings and life of Jesus came to be known as.

Psalms: A collection of spiritual poetry in the Old Testament.

Philippi: A city in the Aegean.

Colosse: A city in the Aegean.

Thessaly: A city in Western Greece.

Twelve Tribes: These are the twelve tribes of Israel led out of Egypt by Moses. They were descended from the twelve sons of Jacob, the son of Isaac, son of Abraham.

Sodom and Gomorrah: The wicked cities destroyed by God. Lot fled from them and lost his wife when she turned to look back.

Anti-Christ: The label that came to be applied to the devil and anyone who opposed Jesus.

Israel : The region the Jews settled after they came out of Egypt.

commandments: These were ten laws given to Moses for the Jews by God. If they kept these laws they were going to be victorious and happy in their promised land.

Lord's Prayer: A prayer given by Jesus to the disciples. See quotes.

Quotes

Quote 1: "This is my son in whom I am well pleased" Matthew, 3:17

Quote 2: "the dogs eat the crumbs which fall from the master's table" Matthew, 15:27

Quote 3: "not...until seven times but until seventy times seven" Matthew, 18:22

Quote 4: "Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him the money. And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? They saith unto him Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's" Matthew, 22: 19-21

Quote 5: "And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe. And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying Hail King of the Jews!" Matthew, 27: 28-9

Quote 6: "Come ye after me and I will make you to become fishers of men" Mark, 1:17

Quote 7: "Whoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it. For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" Mark, 8:34-6

Quote 8: " Be not affrighted: ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him." Mark, 16:6

Quote 9: " It is written that man shall not live by bread alone but by every word of God" Luke, 4:4

Quote 10: "When ye pray, Say, Our father who art in Heaven hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, as in heaven so in earth. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil." Luke, 11: 2-4

Quote 11: " Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts; Which devour widows' houses, and for a shew make long prayers: the same shall receive greater damnation." Luke 20:46-7

Quote 12: "In the beginning there was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John" John, 1:1-6

Quote 13: "He that is without sin among you let him cast the first stone at her." John, 8:7

Quote 14: "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." John, 19:19

Quote 15: "Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcised also? For we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. How then was it reckoned? When he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision." Romans 4:7-10

Quote 16: "through their fall, salvation has come the Gentiles to provoke them to jealousy." Romans, 11:11

Quote 17: "When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things." 1 Corinthians, 13:11-12

Quote 18: "...the head of the body, the church; who is the beginning, the first-born from the dead; that in all things he might have the pre-eminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fullness dwell." Colossians, 1:18-9

Quote 19: "Fight the good fight of Faith" 1 Timothy, 6:12

Quote 20: "all flesh is grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away." First Epistle of Peter, 1:24

Quote 21: "six hundred six score and six" Revelations, 13:18

Topic Tracking: Faith

Matthew

Faith 1: Even in the seminal work of Christianity, faith appears as a fundamental aspect of the religion. Mary and Joseph must act entirely on faith in the birth of Jesus. Mary believes the word of God when she is told she will bear a son. Joseph believes God's messenger and does not reject his pregnant wife-to-be.

Faith 2: The incident on the water begins the testing of the disciples' faith. Throughout the New Testament, the theme of testing one's faith is prevalent. Faith is the most personal connection between a man and God. Therefore, it must be strong. Jesus tests his disciples' faith in him and in God on the water.

Mark

Faith 3: The Gospel of Mark continues the same themes of faith from Matthew. Faith is the ultimate covenant between man and God. The woman who believes that she will be healed by touching Jesus' clothes is healed by the power of her own faith. The people follow Jesus wherever he goes, believing that he will care for their needs.

Faith 4: The resurrection was witnessed by very few, according to Mark. This even became the ultimate emblem of faith. Because it remained as a central symbol of the Christian church, the resurrection evolved into the miracle of miracles and the greatest test of faith. Mary and James' mother believed, and so did the disciples. They went out into the world to preach about such an unbelievable event.

John

Faith 5: Even the disciples cannot believe in the resurrection on faith alone. Jesus must appear before them before they will believe the word. Thomas, upon seeing Jesus, still does not believe. He must put his finger into Jesus' wound before he is willing to believe it. These are the men that are to wander and spread the word of Jesus to be believed on faith alone.

Acts

Faith 6: With the passing of Jesus, faith becomes the most important element of the new religion. Although the disciples could perform some miracles, most new converts believed on faith alone. In addition the early disciples and apostles, working under tremendous duress and prejudice, must have had considerable faith in what they were doing to continue for so long.

Romans

Faith 7: Paul writes of Abraham to discuss circumcision. The gist of his argument is that Abraham had faith before he was circumcised: circumcision was the covenant that he made with God after he had already proved himself. Paul emphasizes that it is not a physical covenant that makes a man closer to God: it is spiritual faith that makes a man holy.

Faith 8: Paul continues to alter the emphasis of the Jewish tradition. He emphasizes that faith is the ultimate path to God; no man may approach God without it. Then, he shows that he subsists on faith, that his love of God is what makes him strong.

2 Corinthians

Faith 9: As the followers of Christ get further and further from the time of Christ, faith evolves into the most important facet of religion. No member of the church of Corinth has witnessed miracles or the preaching of Jesus, therefore the word of God becomes tantamount to miracles. They must believe the word because there is nothing else.

Ephesians

Faith 10: Paul takes great pains to emphasize that his Gospel comes straight from God. Other men and churches must take this on faith alone because there is no way for Paul to prove this.

Hebrews

Faith 11: In Hebrews, the founders of the early church endeavor to show that faith has been a vital part of religion throughout human memory. All of the leaders of the people had tremendous faith in order to carry out the things God asked. The Christians must have similar faith.

Topic Tracking: Gender

Matthew

Gender 1: Already, even in the beginning of the New Testament, the gender gap begins to widen. There are certain expectations for the relationship between a man and a woman. Under normal standards, Mary's pregnancy was a disgrace and grounds for calling off the marriage. The intervention of God, however, subverts this expected outcome.

Gender 2: Jesus revised faith and it seems to be more lenient on women. Harlots are said to be allowed in the kingdom of God. Divorce, however, is allowable for a woman only in the case of fornication: when a man has extra-marital sex. In heaven there is no marriage. Although the relationship between a man and a wife is fundamental on earth it is meaningless in heaven.

Gender 3: Not until the end of Matthew is there any hint that women may be a big part of Jesus' inner circle. His body is ministered to by women, a common thing at the time, but the angel appears first to Mary and tells her to speak to the disciples.

Luke

Gender 4: The Gospel According to Luke begins with two women: the mothers of John and Jesus. In the other Gospels the tales begin with the men involve;, in this one, on the other hand, the tale begins with the mothers who bore the men and how they came to learn of their pregnancies.

Gender 5: In Luke, there is more frequent mention of women. Jesus heals more women. More significantly, Mary Magdalene, a prostitute, is mentioned as his follower much earlier than in Matthew and Mark. She is healed by him and becomes his follower.

John

Gender 6: Following Luke, the Gospel of John begins to give women a more important place. In Samaria, Jesus speaks first to a woman and it is her actions that bring him followers. She brings them to him and then they hear his words.

Gender 7: The Old Testament is very harsh on a woman convicted of adultery: her punishment is death. Jesus does not deny that the woman has sinned nor that she does not deserve death. Instead, he says it is not the duty of men to judge her because they also have sin. He makes the crime of adultery between a woman and God not between a woman and man.

Acts

Gender 8: For the first time in the New Testament, a woman is baptized and taken directly into the ministry of the church. Although temporary, she carries on while Paul is in jail. This is not a common occurrence and in the development of the early church, it becomes more rare.

Romans

Gender 9: Although Paul speaks primarily of men when he is talking about redemption and relation to God, it is likely that he uses this term as a general term for all human beings. In the covenant of Abraham the contract between God and men was circumcision. Women could not be circumcised in this way. To a certain extent, this covenant excluded women. Paul writes that women may remarry when widows without sin.

1 Corinthians

Gender 10: Paul's letter to the Corinthians deals primarily with physical issues. He writes much about sex. A woman who fornicates is condemned unless she marries. He speaks of other fornicators, presumably men, with less vitriol.

Gender 11: As the church develops, the role of women becomes more limited and oppressive. Although women were followers of Jesus, in Paul's vision of the church, they are to keep their heads covered and their mouths shut in the church itself.

Ephesians

Gender 12: While Paul states merely that men must love their wives, the implied statement is that they must treat them fairly. In this is the Old Testament ideal: a woman must obey her husband because he will tell her to do what is best for her. A child must obey his parents, a wife must obey her husband, and a husband must obey God.

Colossians

Gender 13: In this letter, Paul states what he omitted when he wrote to the Ephesians. Women are supposed to submit to their husbands as their husbands submit to God. If a man walks in the way of Christ, he will guide his family well.

Timothy

Gender 14: Paul's rules about women become stricter. They are not supposed to speak in church and are to learn in silence. Young women must be kept busy because they easily turn to evil ways. Young widows are a threat to the community for this reason.

Topic Tracking: Miracles

Matthew

Miracles 1: Like earlier prophets, Jesus is endowed with the power of healing. His miracles, however, do not stop here. A large portion of the gospels retells the miracles performed by Jesus. These miracles are proof of his divine heritage and his acceptance by God. The witnessing of these miracles is given as reason for conversion and belief in the New Testament. In the Christian Church, faith in God is buttressed by belief in these miracles, recorded but not seen.

Miracles 2: Jesus gains more fame through his miracles. He heals anyone and his patients become immediate followers. He also gives his disciples the power to heal. These minor miracles will strengthen his followers.

Miracles 3: Jesus' resurrection is by far the most fundamental miracle of the Christian church. In Christian doxology, Jesus' death represents punishment for the world's sins whereas his resurrection symbolizes redemption and forgiveness. The miracle of Jesus' resurrection is not only considered a miracle of the physical but also a miracle of the spiritual.

Mark

Miracles 4: Mark repeats many of the same miracles recorded in Matthew but often in different order. Jesus performs miracles to heal the sick and feed the many that follow him. He also walks on water to confirm his powers and test the faith of his disciples.

Luke

Miracles 5: Miracles spread the fame of Jesus. It is through miracles that Jesus delivered his message to people. He ministered to a centurion's slave. He performs the ultimate miracle when he raises a dead son. Although people come to him to be healed physically, he speaks to them of their spiritual healing and gives them the space to seek it.

John

Miracles 6: Jesus continues to perform miracles. In this book he performs one of his most famous miracles. He changes water into wine. After this, however, he begins to get followers not by his miracles but by the words that come from his mouth. As this books starts, the Word is the most important thing.

Acts

Miracles 7: After the passing of Jesus, miracles continue to occur but either by the agency of a distant mysterious God or the hands of a disciple. This serves to spread the belief to people who had not witnessed the miracles of Jesus. The miracle of the disciples' ability to address any man in his own tongue is a shorthand explanation for the expeditious spread of Christianity.

Miracles 8: After the Gospels, the miracles of God tend to be less benevolent and more about revenge and caring for his followers. Peter is imprisoned, but the angels of God free him. Herod mistreats the Christians, but the Angel of God kills him in front of his own people.

Ephesians

Miracles 9: In the absence of witnessed miracles, Paul speaks of other mysteries. One miraculous event is God's revelation to Paul. Another is the mystery of how all men are connected in Christ. Finally, Paul focuses on the greatest miracle of the Christian church: the resurrection. He asserts that in Christ's death, the sinful part of everyone died and in his resurrection everyone who believed was resurrected.

Topic Tracking: Revision

Matthew

Revision 1: A theme of the New Testament is a revision of the themes of the Old Testament. In the Old Testament, prophets frequently come to men and are on a separate ground: they are above men. From the beginning, Jesus puts himself on the same level as other men. Even though John the Baptist knows who he is, Jesus asks to be baptized like all other men.

Revision 2: Jesus begins to forcibly question and challenge traditions of Judaism. First he allows his men to work on the Sabbath defending their deed by alleging that the priests of the Synagogue do worse things. After this he alleges that it is right to heal on the Sabbath. Jesus also begins to minister to Gentiles. In the Old Testament, the God of Abraham is a God almost exclusively to Jews. In the New Testament, however, the worship of this God is open to many other people.

Mark

Revision 3: Jesus continued to revise the teachings of the Old Testament. In the Old Testament there were elaborate rules for keeping a person cleansed from evil. Jesus supplants all of this with the belief that only the soul can be dirty or clean. He also begins to minister to those who are not Jewish. The acceptance of Gentiles into the Kingdom of God is a major theme of the New Testament.

Revision 4: The final major revision of Jesus was to instruct the disciples to proselytize. Spreading the word of God was not a tenet of the Old Testament. Christianity remains a religion of conversion to this day. Jesus instructs the disciples to spread the word of God and aggressively encourage enlightenment.

Luke

Revision 5: In the Old Testament the Devil, Satan, is mentioned only a handful of times. The major conflict is between the will of the people to be good and the commandments of God. In the New Testament, however, Satan begins to appear as more of an antagonist who perverts the otherwise benign wills of men.

Revision 6: Throughout these parables there is similar message. In each case there are three entities: the master, the previously favored servant, and the newly regained servant. The newly regained servant, sheep or son is always cherished more. The New Testament favors the regained people over the chosen people whereas the Old Testament is about rewarding the loyal and chosen.

Revision 7: In this Gospel, Judas does not decide himself to betray Jesus but he is forced by Satan. Also, Pilate does not want to condemn Jesus; in fact, he tries to pass it to Herod, but the people force them to crucify Jesus. At the same time, this Gospel says that evil men are influenced by Satan but reinforced the fact that Jesus was crucified not by Pilate, but by the people.

John

Revision 8: The Old Testament places great emphasis on defining sin and setting the punishment for sins. Jesus revises this idea in this simple scene. He states that it is not the place of men to judge and punish sins but is God's place. For a man would be a hypocrite to criticize the sins of others unless he were free of sin himself.

Acts

Revision 9: As the New Testament develops from the Gospels, Judaism becomes more and more foreign. The apostles of the early church are not initially concerned with preaching commandments; rather they are focused on spreading the word of Jesus' life and resurrection. As Peter continues to preach, the church becomes a little more focused on guilt and less on enlightenment.

Revision 10: Peter officially states for the first time that it is all right to allow Gentiles into the church. While the groundwork for this was partially set by Jesus a lot of this decision may have been the persecution the Christians felt they were suffering at the hands of the Jews or the resistance of the Jews to the new religion.

Romans

Revision 11: Paul revisits the discussions of earlier apostles who upheld the belief that a man needed to be circumcised. He believes that faith is more important than a physical representation of duty. In this, Paul is departing further from the traditions of Judaism. He is also making conversion more attractive to Gentiles. There are not many men who would find circumcision an attractive notion late in life.

Revision 12: As the followers of Christ become more of a religion than a movement, rules must be created for the governing of such a body. Paul is concerned with the splintering of Jesus' followers. He wants them to remain united in his message. He refines some of Jesus' teachings

Revision 13: As the church evolves, the Gospel becomes an item of worship itself. In the absence of miracles and Jesus, the word must be treated as holy so that the people will have some sort of authority. Paul emphasizes the importance of the word.

Galatians

Revision 14: Paul tries to emphasize the egalitarian nature of his vision of the new church. He views all men as equal and tries to supplant the hierarchal structure of traditional Judaism. He focuses on the deeds and faith of a man rather than a physical attribute such as circumcision. A man is circumcised generally when he is only a week old. To be faithful, one must make his beliefs part of every day.

2 Timothy

Revision 15: Even though Jesus made no correlation between serving well on earth and stature in heaven, Paul does this to comfort Timothy. The apostles suffer greatly and need some sort of comfort. Jesus said that the greatest on earth would be the least in heaven; entrance to heaven was solace enough. For Paul, however, the labors of serving God require a greater reward.

Hebrews

Revision 16: A major component of the Old Testament is instruction about correct sacrifices. This instruction takes up many verses. In these lines, the founders of the early church explain why they have given up sacrifices. This is a fundamental departure from contemporary Judaism.

The Gospel According to Matthew

The gospels are accounts of the life of Jesus.

The genealogy of Jesus follows the line of Abraham to Joseph, the man who married Mary, Jesus' mother. Fourteen generations separated Abraham from David and fourteen generations separated David from Joseph. Mary, engaged to Joseph, was made pregnant by the Holy Spirit. She was told that she would bear a son called Emmanuel. Joseph was going to leave her but an angel came to him and told him to take her as his wife.

Jesus was born in Bethlehem, in the days of King Herod. The king heard that a king of the Jews was to be born in Judea. He told wise men to follow the north star. They found the child and gave him frankincense, gold and myrrh. In a dream,God told them to hide from Herod. He also warned Joseph to keep the child from the King. Herod slew all the children in Bethlehem. When Herod died, God told Joseph to go to Israel but, fearing Herod's son, Joseph settled the family in Nazareth.

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At this time, John the Baptist was practicing in Judea. He had simple tastes and clothing. He asked the Jewish leaders, the Pharisees and Sadducees, to repent from their evil ways. Jesus came to him to be baptized but John said that he should be baptized by him instead. Jesus refused. When John had baptized him, a voice came from heaven: "This is my son in whom I am well pleased" Matthew, 3:17.

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Jesus went into the desert to be tempted for forty days. The tempter asked him to make stones into bread; he placed him on a precipice and told him to jump off and have God save him. Jesus told the devil to leave.

John was put into prison. Jesus preached for the repentance of the people. He stood before the multitudes, alleging that the weak and humble were more holy to God than others. He promised them that they would inherit the earth. The righteousness of the people must exceed that of the Pharisees. Jesus affirmed the Commandments. He gave them much advice: a man who looks after a woman with lust sins in his heart; if the right hand offends cut it off; a man should turn the other cheek when hit. He continued, telling them that they should love their neighbors and their enemy, pray in private and use the Lord's Prayer. A man could not serve two masters: God and money. Also, man should not worry about having physical things. The lilies are beautiful because God wills them to be so.

Jesus continued, saying that men should not judge, so that they will not be judged. They were to do to others as they would desire be done unto them. A house founded upon a rock does not fall; one built upon sand does. Likewise, a man founded on God will be strong.

When Jesus stopped speaking, he healed lepers and a crippled servant of a centurion. He healed the mother of Peter, one of the twelve disciples.

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Jesus went onto a ship on a lake and a great tempest arose. His disciples were afraid; he asked them why they had so little faith and then calmed the storm. On land he cleansed a city possessed by devils. Back in his own city he healed a cripple and asked a scribe why he blasphemed.

Jesus sat to eat with sinners and the Pharisees asked him why he would do such a thing. He responded that the healthy have no need of a physician. He healed another sick woman and brought one back to life. He made blind men see. He also gave his twelve disciples Simon (Peter), Andrew,James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James, son of Alphaeus, Simon the Canaanite, Judas, Lebbeus the power to heal. He sent them out in order to minister to the sick, calling them sheep in the midst of wolves. He warned them that there would be trouble because he had come to cause conflict.

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The disciples picked grain on the Sabbath. The Pharisees criticized Jesus for this. Jesus retorted that the priests had already profaned the holy day. He entered the synagogue and declared that it was holy to heal on the Sabbath. Some of the Pharisees decided to destroy Jesus but he knew their thoughts. He told them that they could still be forgiven. Some of the scribes asked for a sign. Jesus said that this was unholy like Jonas.

Jesus sat by the sea and many gathered around him. He explained that when someone sows seed only the seed that falls in good ground bears fruit. God is the good ground. The Kingdom of God is like a field sowed with bad seeds in the night. The weeds and grains grow together. The Kingdom of heaven is like the mustard seed: it begins as the smallest seed but ends up being the greatest plant. A farmer weeds out the bad plants; a fisherman throws out the bad fish.

Jesus enters the synagogue but no one believes his words. Because of this, Jesus performs fewer miracles. Herod had put John the Baptist in jail because he chastised the king. John was beheaded. Jesus was upset and ministered to many in his honor. A great number of people gathered around him. There were only five loaves of bread and two fish to feed everyone. Jesus broke them, blessed them and put them into baskets. There was not only enough food for everyone but there were baskets of food left over.

Jesus and the disciples again went out to sea. Jesus walked out onto the water and asked Peter to walk out with him. Peter stepped out, but did not truly believe and began to sink into the water.

The Pharisees asked why the disciples did not wash their hands. Jesus responded by telling them that they did not follow the most important commandments. To eat with unwashed hands does not defile a man. After this, Jesus healed a gentile. Before he did this, he told the woman that he was not to give the bread of the children of God to the dogs. The woman responded that "the dogs eat the crumbs which fall from the master's table" Matthew, 15:27. He fed another multitude with seven loaves of bread.

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The Pharisees again asked for a sign from Jesus and he mentioned the baskets of food. He told them that he would build a church on a rock and give Simon (Peter) the key.

He foretold his own death and resurrection to the disciples but Peter did not want to face this. Jesus took Peter, James and John to a mountain and appeared to them talking to Moses and Elias. They were afraid but he told them not to be.

A man asked Jesus to heal his crazy son. Others asked him who was the greatest in the kingdom of heaven and Jesus said a humble child. He told them that a man who loses one of a hundred sheep will rejoice more in the one he regains than the other ninety-nine he possesses. He told them that whenever two or three are gathered in his name, God is present. When asked, Jesus told Peter that he should forgive his brother "not...until seven times but until seventy times seven" Matthew 18:22. God relates to people in this way: A master forgives his servant a large debt, but that servant throws a fellow servant in debtor's prison for a much smaller debt. The master becomes indignant with the first servant.

Jesus said that a husband and his wife should be divorced only for fornication. When asked what men should do to be good, Jesus said that they should keep the commandments. To be holy, one should sell all possessions and follow God. God is like a man who hires people to work in a vineyard all day at different hours but pays them all the same wage regardless of when they start.

Jesus arrived in Jerusalem on a donkey and people fawned on him and called him king. He entered the Temple and cast out the moneychangers and merchants. He healed many men there and told a parable. A man asked two sons to go into his vineyard. One went and one didn't. The lowly men and harlots who believe in God go to heaven before the children of Israel. The Pharisees tested Jesus again. They asked him if it was right to give tribute to Caesar. He responded:

"Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him the money. And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? They saith unto him Caesar's. Then saith he unto them. Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's." Matthew, 22: 19-21

Jesus said that there is no marriage in heaven and that the greatest commandment is to love God. The second greatest commandment is to love your neighbor as you love yourself. Jesus told them that all man are equal and the Pharisees were abasing themselves before God. He warned everyone of the blindness of the Pharisees. He warned that the Temple would fall and the world would pass but his words would remain forever.

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Jesus told the disciples that he would be crucified two days after the Passover feast. Judas went secretly to a council of priests conspiring against Jesus. He asked how much they would pay for the deliverance of Jesus. They told him thirty pieces of silver. At the dinner, Jesus announced to the disciples that one among them would betray him. Judas admitted it and departed. Jesus broke bread and said it would represent his body. He shared wine, saying that it would be his blood. After the meal they depart to a mountain and Jesus told Peter that he would deny him three times before the sun rose.

Jesus became sorrowful as his disciples went to sleep. He asked God if this burden would be taken from him. Judas led the priests to Jesus as they slept. The council sought people to testify against Jesus. Peter denied that he knew him three times. Judas committed suicide. Jesus stood before the governor Pilate for judgment. He neither confirms nor denies that he is the King of the Jews. At his feast Pilate offered the people the pardon of one of the prisoners: either the criminal Barabbas or Jesus. The people chose Barabbas and Jesus was sent to be crucified.

"And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe. And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying Hail King of the Jews!" Matthew, 27: 28-9

Jesus could not bear the weight of his cross, so a man helped him. He was crucified and hung for many hours. After he died, a wealthy man who had become a follower secured his body and had it put in a tomb. It was guarded for three days. On the third, an earthquake rolled the stone back and Jesus was gone. An angel told Mary Magdalene where to find him. Jesus rose and met with his disciples. He told them to meet him in Galilee and then to go out and minister to the world.

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The Gospel according to Mark

God said he would send a messenger. John the Baptist performed baptisms in the wilderness but prophesied that there would come one who was greater than he. When he baptized Jesus, God spoke aloud that this was his son. When John was put in jail, Jesus continued to preach for repentance. He called Simon and Andrew, fishermen, to be his disciples. He said "Come ye after me and I will make you to become fishers of men" Mark, 1:17.

Jesus healed Simon's mother and cleansed a leper in Galilee. He told the leper to reveal these deeds to a priest. Many gathered to hear Jesus preach. The Pharisees asked why he ate with sinners and he told them that the healthy do not need a physician. He called to men and told them that the kingdom of God is like a mustard seed. He sent the people away and went to the sea. A tempest came over them and he calmed it.

He met a man with an unclean spirit. The man worshiped him and Jesus cleansed him. Many spread the word of Jesus. A woman believed with all her heart that if she touched Jesus' robe she would be healed. Her belief was true. Jesus healed the leader of the Synagogue.

Jesus taught in the synagogue on the Sabbath. He preached for repentance. Herod heard of his teachings and was sure that John, whom he had beheaded, was back from the dead. Jesus went into the desert and was followed by many. When they had no food he took five loaves and two fish to feed them all. He walked upon the sea and they were all amazed.

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The Pharisees and scribes asked why Jesus and the disciples ate with unclean hands. Jesus said that sins defile a man, not unclean fingers. He explained that food leaves the body but sins do not. A Greek woman came to him asking for her daughter's health. Jesus said that miracles were for the children of Israel not for the gentiles. She asked for the crumbs from the children's table. This humility pleased Jesus. He healed another man with a speech impediment.

The great multitude following him had nothing to eat so Jesus broke loaves and fed five thousand men. Jesus asked his disciples to tell him who men think he is. They said John the Baptist, Elias or a prophet. Peter told him that he is the Christ. Jesus told him to be quiet about this. Then he said:

"Whoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it. For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" Mark, 8:34-6

After six days, they went to a high mountain and Jesus appeared talking to Moses and Elias. God spoke out and said that Jesus was his son. Many people returned and a man asked Jesus to heal his epileptic son. Jesus made the man rise and then left. He told his disciples that in heaven the first shall be last. If the right hand offends the soul, you should cut it off.

Jesus went to Judea and the Pharisees asked him if divorce ought to be legal. Jesus said only in the case of fornication. The disciples stopped children from coming to him but Jesus said they should not. He told them that it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to get in to heaven. He prophesied that he would be betrayed and killed. James and John asked to be on his right hand in heaven. Jesus told them not to ask such things because they will be given to those who deserve it.

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On the way to Jerusalem, Jesus sat upon a donkey and entered the city hailed as the king. In the Temple, he overthrew the tables of the money changers. Jesus told the disciples to have faith in God. The priests asked him where he got his authority and he told them it was from God. Jesus spoke in parables. A vineyard keeper beat the servants of his master. He killed the master's only son. The vineyard keeper represents the priest of Israel. The slave represented the people. They asked Jesus if they should pay taxes to Caesar and Jesus responded that they should give to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what belongs to God. He told them that the greatest commandments were to love God and to love your neighbor as yourself.

Jesus pointed to a widow who cast less than a farthing into the Synagogue's treasury and said that she gave more of what she had than a rich man. He told the disciples that all the buildings of Jerusalem would fall with all the nations. Only the Son of man would be able to save people. He warned them to be vigilant because God could come at any moment.

At the Passover feast a woman anointed Jesus and some of the disciples grumbled at the waste of ointment. Judas betrayed Jesus to the chief priests. Jesus called the disciples to a meal and broke bread for his body and gave wine for his blood. On the Mount of Olives he said that Peter would deny him three times before dawn. As the disciples fell asleep, Jesus prayed. Judas came with armed men. Jesus went with them and Peter followed. Men accused Jesus of saying that he could raze the temple. He did not defend himself. Some spat on him and struck him. Peter denied to the crowd that he knew Jesus three times.

In the morning, the priests took Jesus to Pilate. Pilate asked him if he was the king of the Jews. The people asked for him to be crucified. They dressed him as a king and mocked him. Over his cross hung a placard that said 'King of the Jews'. They mocked him, saying that the Son of God could not descend a simple cross. A man gave him a sponge of vinegar to drink. Jesus let out a moan and died. Mary Magdalene was there. Joseph of Arimathea, a rich man, secured Jesus' body.

After the following Sabbath, Mary and James' mother went to his tomb and found that he was gone. Only an angel remained. He said: " Be not affrighted: ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him." Mark, 16:6

The disciples were to go and preach these events to the world. Jesus appeared to two of them and told them to go into the world. They went and preached everywhere.

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The Gospel According to Luke

In the days of Herod there was a priest named Zechariah who had a wife named Elisabeth but she was barren. He pleaded with God and she bore a son named John who would serve God. Gabriel instructed them in this. Gabriel also went to Mary and told her that she would bear a child to be called Jesus. Mary and Elisabeth met and spoke of their coming births. They praised God and John was born.

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Everyone had to return to the city of their family for the Census. Mary went to Bethlehem with Joseph, her husband, because he was of the house of David. There was no room in the inn so Joseph and Mary took shelter in a stable and the infant Jesus was placed in a manger. Angels told nearby shepherds of the birth and they came to the child's side. The Holy Spirit came to Simon and he came to see the child.

Jesus grew and when he was twelve he went with his parents to Jerusalem. He became separated from his parents but they found him in the temple talking with the priests.

In the fifteenth year of Tiberius Caesar, God came to John the Baptist and told him that the world was to be saved. John was to baptize men with water and give them new life. Herod shut John in prison. Jesus was about thirty when he went into the wilderness. The Devil tempted him with food while he was fasting. Jesus responded, " It is written that man shall not live by bread alone but by every word of God" Luke, 4:4. The devil tempted him to call angels to bring him down from the pinnacle of the Temple, but Jesus would not.

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Jesus read the book of a prophet and knew his place: to minister to the people. He revealed himself to some and told the story of the prophet Elias who was not accepted by his own people. They cast Jesus out. Jesus exorcized a spirit from a stricken man. He healed Simon's mother and began to make a name for himself. Jesus went out on a ship with his disciples and told them to cast out their nets. They caught more fish than the ship could carry. Jesus prayed in the wilderness. When he returned he healed a cripple.

The Pharisees asked if it was easier to forgive sins or to heal. Jesus said he did not have the power to forgive sins. They criticized him for eating with unclean men. Jesus went into the cornfields and the disciples picked corn on the Sabbath. Jesus told them that David worked on the Sabbath. On another Sabbath he taught and asked whether it was lawful to save a life on the Sabbath.

He spoke to a multitude of men and chose his twelve disciples. He announced to the people that the poor would be blessed; men should love their enemies and always give more than is asked. He asked them if it was possible for the blind to lead the blind. They were to pull the beam out of their eye before the splinter in their brother's. A man who follows God is like a man who digs deep and builds his house upon rock. Jesus entered a city and healed the servant of a Centurion. He went into another city and raised a dead son for a woman. People began to speak of him widely. John the Baptist's disciples came to find him.

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Jesus asked the people if there were anyone more holy than John the Baptist. He told them that the least in heaven is more holy than this. A woman anointed Jesus with oil and a Pharisee criticized Jesus for letting an unclean person touch him. Jesus said that a man had two debtors, one with substantially more debt than the other. Neither could pay. The man loved the debtor more whom he forgave more debt. In this way God loves more those who he forgives more. Jesus went and sent the devils out of Mary Magdalene. She began to follow him. He gave people the parable of the mustard seed. He sent devils from men into swine and the pigs stampeded into a river to drown themselves. He brought a dead girl back to life.

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Jesus gathered his disciples to him and told them to minister to the world. A multitude gathered but they had no food. He separated five loaves and two fish and fed all of them. He revealed to the disciples that he would die. Two of them witnessed him speaking with Moses and Elias. A voice broke out from heaven and declared Jesus to be his son. Jesus told the disciples that a child would be the greatest among them. He repeated that he came not to destroy but to save. He appointed seventy others to go out and preach to the world. He sent them two by two. They were to be tolerant and rejoice in God.

A lawyer asked Jesus what he could do to inherit eternal life. Jesus said he should follow the law: love God and his neighbor. The lawyer asked who his neighbor was. Jesus gave a parable. A man was hurt by thieves. A priest and a Levite ignored him but a Samaritan took pity on him and helped him. Jesus said that the Samaritan was good. Every man is your neighbor.

Jesus gave the people the words of the Lord's Prayer:

"When ye pray, Say, Our father who art in Heaven hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, as in heaven so in earth. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil." Luke, 11: 2-4

Men sought a sign from heaven from Jesus but Jesus would not humor them. He explained that anyone who was not with him was against him. He prophesied the end of the world as they knew it. A Pharisee asked him to dinner. Jesus told him to be wary of his judgments because the blood of the prophets was on their hands.

A great multitude gathered to hear Jesus and he spoke to them saying that the spirit was greater than the body. The lilies grow beautiful without work. God will clothe his people. They should seek him not money. Jesus said that fathers and sons would be divided because he has come as a new sign for men.

Jesus healed a woman in a synagogue. The priests told him that he should not heal on the Sabbath. Jesus responded that they were wrong. He warned the people that they would be punished for their wrongdoing and evil ways.

He went to the house of a Pharisee and healed a man. He told a parable of a wedding. All men are invited but only the servants came because everyone else had something to do. The master invited beggars and the poor to fill the party. This is the way of God. A man who loses one sheep delights in finding that one more than the rest of his flock. He told them that a man with two sons will rejoice when the lost one returns, even though this alienates the one who remains.

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Jesus went to a village and told the people there that a man must be rejected by his peers to be a man of God. A judge helped a widow so she would stop annoying him but God will help his people because he loves them. Jesus said that he who exalts himself will suffer. All men should follow the commandments.

Jesus told his disciples that they were to enter Jerusalem and there he would suffer. He told of a rich man who went to a foreign country and left his servants in charge of his goods. When he returned his servants had increased his wealth. One did not increase his wealth. The man gave him more as a reward for not using his money sinfully.

Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem riding on a donkey hailed as the King. He cast the moneychangers from the temple. He preached there and said that a man planted a vineyard and had another tend it. He sent for the fruit but his servant was beaten and sent back empty-handed. He sent his own son, but the vineyard-keeper killed him. What should the master do? He will destroy the vineyard keeper. In this way, God will destroy the evil leaders of men. The Pharisees feared the people after they heard this parable. Jesus warned the people to do the following:

" Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts; Which devour widows' houses, and for a show make long prayers: the same shall receive greater damnation." Luke 20:46-7

Jesus pointed to a poor widow who gave only a farthing and said that she gave more than the Rich man who gave much. He warned that nations would war and people would flee into the mountains in his name. He said that all was to fall away except God.

On the feast of the Passover Satan made Judas betray Jesus. The disciples made ready for the feast. Jesus took bread and told them to take it as his body. He passed around wine as his blood. He told them that one among them would betray him, and that Peter would deny him three times before dawn. They went to the Mount of Olives and prayed. Before dawn, Judas arrived with armed men and Jesus was taken away. Peter denied that he knew Jesus three times. Jesus was taken before Pilate, but Pilate found no fault in him. He sent him to Herod. Herod questioned him and the people mocked him. Pilate decided to release Jesus but the Priests and people called for him to be crucified. Pilate gave in to their wishes and Jesus was made to carry his own cross. A sign, in Latin, Greek and Hebrew, was placed above his head calling him the King of the Jews.

Joseph of Arimathea bought his body from Pilate. After the Sabbath they found the stone of his tomb rolled away. An angel sitting there told Mary Magdalene that Jesus had risen. The people went searching for him. He appeared to Simon and Thomas. Thomas did not believe until he touched Jesus' wounds. He told them to remember these things and spread the word.

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The Gospel according to John

The Gospel of John begins:

"In the beginning there was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John" John, 1:1-6

John baptized men with water. Jesus came to him and John recognized him. He followed him. Jesus met another man who recognized him. At a marriage, the hosts had forgotten to buy wine. Jesus told them to fill two barrels with water and it became wine. He went to Jerusalem and drove the moneychangers from the temple. Men witnessed many of his miracles. One of the Pharisees named Nicodemus was amazed by him. Jesus said that only those who believed in God would escape destruction. John the Baptist told others that Jesus was greater than he.

Jesus went to Samaria and asked a woman to draw him water from a well. He told her that whoever drank of the water of heaven would never thirst again. She asked to have a drink of this sort of water and he told her that she should worship God. He admitted that he was the Messiah. She brought more men to hear him and many believed in him. Jesus departed again for Galilee.

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A man told Jesus that his child was sick and Jesus sent him home telling him that his child was already healed. He went to Jerusalem and an Angel made a pool of holy water. Whoever drank of this water was healed. He made a lame man walk and told him to sin no more. He warned him that God would see everything. He told the men to search the scriptures in order to find eternal life because one could not believe in Jesus without first believing in God. Jesus went up onto a mountain and a multitude of five thousand followed. He fed them with a few loaves of bread and a couple of fish.

Jesus returned to Galilee because he was afraid that the people in Judea would kill him. Men criticized him for healing on the Sabbath day but he pointed out that it is not against the law to circumcise on the Sabbath. The Pharisees were angry and they sent officers to take him but they heard him speak and would not. Jesus went to a mountain and the Pharisees brought him a woman who was an adulteress, asking if they should stone her as the law said. Jesus replied: "He that is without sin among you let him cast the first stone at her." John, 8:7. The men told the woman to follow Jesus and they left. Jesus said that he would not judge because that is the office of God.

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Jesus told the people that whoever followed his word was his disciple. Jesus met a blind man and healed his sight on the Sabbath. The Pharisees, not believing the deed, openly criticized Jesus for working on the Sabbath. When they saw that the man was no longer blind, they were amazed. Jesus told the people that whoever entered the sheepfold by any route other than the gate was a thief. He said that he was the door to the fold and no man may have life unless it is given. He walked in the temple and said that the sheep hear his voice but others wouldn't.

A man named Lazarus was sick, but Jesus knew he was dead already. He went to him and told his sister that he would rise again. Jesus wept when he saw him. He called the man from his grave. The Pharisees took council against him. Mary anointed Jesus with expensive oil and Judas complained that it could have been used for the poor. Jesus said that they would always have the poor but they would not always have him.

Jesus entered Jerusalem on an ass and men laid palm fronds before him. He preached to the people. He told them that whoever loved life most would lose it and that they should walk while they had light. Before the feast of the Passover, Jesus washed the disciples' feet. He said that they should wash the feet of others because everyone is a servant. After this, he told them that one of them would betray him. He indicated Judas and Judas left. Then he said that Peter would betray him three times before dawn. Jesus told them not to be troubled but to keep his commandments. He explained that his was the vine and God the keeper. They were not his servants but his friends. He assured them that comfort would come and redeem the world. He warned that they would be in anger, but as a woman in labor forgets her pain when she sees her child, so they would heal.

Jesus prayed to God and told him all that he had done. He went to a brook and Judas arrived with the Pharisees. Simon drew his sword, but Jesus told him to put it away. Peter followed but denied that he knew Jesus at the door of the house. Jesus admitted his identity to a council. Peter denied that he knew Jesus two more times. The priests took Jesus to Pilate who questioned him. Pilate offered to release him but the people shouted for his crucifixion.

Jesus was made to bear his cross to Calvary. They put a sign above his head which read "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." John, 19:19 in Latin, Hebrew and Greek. After a great while, Jesus bowed his head and died. A soldier pierced his thigh. Joseph of Arimathea secured the body and they put him in a tomb. After the Sabbath, Mary Magdalene found that the body was gone. Peter and John came and they saw angels. Jesus appeared. They told this to the disciples. Thomas was met by Jesus but did not believe until he put his finger unto the wound of Jesus' thigh. Jesus showed himself again to more disciples and ate with them. He sent them out to testify about his life.

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Acts

Acts is another record of the end of the life of Jesus. It is primarily focused on the deeds of the disciples in spreading the gospels. It was written by a man named Theophilus.

Jesus spoke to the Disciples for forty days after his resurrection. He told them not to leave Jerusalem until they got a sign from God. Peter spoke to the gathered disciples. Because Judas took his own life, they needed another man to replace him. Two were called: Barnabas and Matthias. Matthias was chosen. God's spirit overtook them and they could speak to any man in his native tongue. Peter spoke and said that this was the work of God. He spoke of Jesus' resurrection and called for the gathered people to repent of their sins.

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Topic Tracking: Miracles 9

Peter and John went to the Temple and Peter made a lame man walk. Some people marveled at this deed, but Peter maintained that this was the work of God not a man. He told them to repent from them sins because through their action or inaction, Jesus died.

Topic Tracking: Revision 9

The Pharisees told Peter to stop preaching but he would not. A man sold all of his property and gave it to the apostles. Another man sold some of his possessions and gave some of his money to the apostles. Because of his pretense, the man died. When questioned, his wife maintained his guises and died in turn. The Sadducees found the apostles healing and threw them into prison. They escaped and said they would obey God. The Pharisees decided to kill the apostles because they would not stop.

The apostles picked seven of their number to deal with bureaucratic work so the rest of them could minister. One of them, Stephen, performed great miracles. Some of the synagogue set up false witnesses to claim that Stephen was a blasphemer. The high priest questioned Stephen and he said that Jesus had been among the Jews from Moses through David and that Jesus was at the right hand of God. They stoned Stephen to death.

Philip, another of the seven, went to Samaria and performed miracles. A man was amazed by the miracles of Peter. He asked how he could get such power and Peter chastised his lust for grandeur. At God's bidding, Philip went to Gaza and found a Eunuch reading a book of a prophet. He preached the word of God.

A man named Saul was persecuting the Christians. He went to Damascus and was overcome by God. He met a disciple who called him brother. Saul preached in a temple at Damascus and enraged the Jews. A man named Cornelius had a vision of God and sought Peter. He was baptized and became a disciple. The Gentiles began to hear the word of God. Peter said that it was right and they could be brought into the church.

Topic Tracking: Revision 10

The disciples moved the church to Antioch where many people from all around the world came to worship. Herod opposed them and killed many of the disciples. Peter was put in prison but angels freed him. He joined the others and Herod was irate. When King Herod went out to speak to his people, the angel of God destroyed him.

Topic Tracking: Miracles 8

The word of God spread from Antioch. Barnabas and Saul went to other cities to preach. Paul went to other synagogues and spoke the word of Jesus. He told them that with Jesus and God all things are possible. Gentiles sought Paul and asked that these words might be heard by them on the next Sabbath. The Jews spoke against this but the Gentiles believed. Paul and Barnabas were expelled. In another city both Jews and Gentiles believed the word. Some of these people were persecuted by their leaders. Paul healed a crippled woman.

A priest of Jupiter was going to to make a sacrifice to his god but Paul told him not to. Paul and Barnabas wondered if one had to be circumcised to be in the church. They argued that God chose the Jews and made them his people. They decided to tell the Gentiles to become circumcised and keep the commandments. They sent letters and messages out. A disciple named Timotheus was circumcised and went with Paul. A vision told Paul to go to Macedonia and he did. He baptized a woman who carried on their customs. Paul was put into jail. That night he prayed to God and there was an earthquake. They escaped. He preached in a synagogue. Many Gentiles believed his words but the Jews did not. They assaulted a house to find him.

Topic Tracking: Gender 8

In Athens Paul met with many philosophers. He taught them about Jesus. Many mocked him but some believed. He went to Corinth and taught many. The Jews there took him to court and told the judge that Paul was stirring up trouble. This did not move the judge. Paul left Greece.

Paul went to Ephesus and was challenged by the followers of other gods. He converted many. He returned to Macedonia and brought a boy back to life. He planned to return to Jerusalem. He preached to Greeks and told them to repent and learn the words of Jesus. He traveled to Jerusalem and said that he meant to die in Judea. Paul entered the Temple and the Jews laid their hands on him, planning to kill him. A captain let him speak. He told them in Hebrew that he was not being fairly treated. He told of Saul's conversion and overcame the people.

He asked if it was lawful for him to be put to death uncharged. The head priests called for his death. The Pharisees would not have him killed. Another group of Jews made a conspiracy. Paul heard of this and a centurion provided him with protection. More priests turned against Paul but he told them he only spoke the word of God. The governor told the centurion to guard Paul. Paul remained in this prison state for two years. Paul went to be judged in Jerusalem. He spoke to the King and said it was not lawful for him to be killed without judgment. Paul asked to appeal to Caesar. The king gave Paul license to speak freely.

Paul explained that he was accused merely for speaking the word of God. The king sent Paul to Caesar. On the boat they were becalmed without sun or stars. An angel of God told Paul not to fear. The ship sank but Paul was taken by his guard into a barbarous land. A poisonous snake bit him but it did not hurt him. Paul healed a sick man. He arrived in Rome and spoke to the chief of the Jews. He revealed to them the word of God and the life of Jesus.

Romans

Romans continues the story of Paul. Here he writes to the Romans about Jesus and God.

Paul speaks of the nature of God. He made everyone. Those who misuse his name suffer. They lose their knowledge of him as they fall to base desires. All who judge others will be condemned. No one may escape the judgment of God. The glory of God may be attained by Jews and Gentiles alike through worship and repentance. Some day to come, Jesus will return and pass judgments for God. The Jew has no advantage in this; circumcision does not guarantee holiness. Everyone sins and God will forgive everything because only he is truly good. Paul speaks of Abraham and David in describing who is holy:

"Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcised also? For we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. How then was it reckoned? When he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision." Romans, 4: 7-10

Topic Tracking: Revision 11
Topic Tracking: Faith 7

Paul asserts that the covenant was meant not just for Abraham but for anyone who keeps God's faith. Belief in Jesus is this faith. He maintains that Jesus died when they were weak in order to make them strong. Just as through the offense of one, many may die, through the death of one, many were cleansed. He says that even though God is so full of grace and forgiveness, men should abandon sin. Sin brings death whereas Jesus brings eternal life.

Law rules over men while they live. If a woman's husband dies she may marry again without sin. God will deliver all men from the sins of the body. Whoever follows Jesus will not be condemned. If this pursuit, men must abandon carnal desires. Men are merely children of God, brothers of Christ. They will be saved by hope not deeds. No one should be able to separate the people from the will of God. Paul swears that nothing will part him from his love of God. He is sorrowful that he cannot bear the pain of his brothers to make their lives easier. He recounts Moses and the deeds of God and the prophets.

Topic Tracking: Faith 8
Topic Tracking: Gender 9

Paul says that he desires his brothers to be saved because they have not upheld Moses' laws. He recognizes that the children of Israel have not been obedient to the laws. Despite sin, God has not cast away his people. Even when they killed his prophets, he forgave them. Paul addresses the Gentiles concerning the Jews, "through their fall, salvation has come to the Gentiles to provoke them to jealousy." Romans, 11:11. He tells them that the olive tree has been broken at the branches, but that these branches could be replanted. Israel will be saved; the people will turn back to the Lord.

Paul entreats the people to turn back to God's ways, to not think themselves higher than any other. They are all part of the body of Christ; their enemy is their friend. Every spirit is the servant of the higher power. They must keep God's sacraments, the commandments. God will strengthen weakness. Who serves righteousness serves God. In this way, strong men should support the weak. Gentiles should serve God just as the Jews do. Paul says it is his duty to go and inform the uninformed that they may obtain salvation. He commands the leaders of the churches to be vigilant in virtue and keep the word of God.

1 Corinthians

1 and 2 Corinthians are Paul's letters to the church in Corinth. These letters deal with the basic tenets of Christianity. He writes from captivity in Rome.

Paul beseeches the Corinthians to be united in the body of Christ. The church should not be divided because God must not be divided. Paul is there to preach the word of God to Jews and Gentiles. He says that he came after God revealed himself to him. They have the life of Christ to live by. Paul says that he can only truly speak of that which is physical not spiritual. God increases the physical world without the work of man. The only foundation for a man to build on is Christ. Whoever destroys the church will be destroyed by God. Everyone in a different sect of the Church is still a part of the whole body.

Paul says that there may be stewards of God. Stewards must be faithful. Kings may still rule with faith in God. A man may be rich as long as God is more important than money. He tells them that he sent Timotheus to teach them but he will come himself when he can. He tells them that there are fornications among them; they do not mourn their sins but exult in them. He warns the people to not keep company with the wicked.

Paul shames the sinners and tells them to remember that they are a part of the body of Christ. Hence, a harlot ought not be attached to the body. It is good for a man to be married; everyone can avoid fornication in this way. Paul says that circumcision doesn't matter, what matters is keeping the commandments of God. A virgin will be condemned for sex if she does not marry. Married people may please each other. It is still sacred to have sex when married.

Topic Tracking: Gender 10

Paul reports that sacrifices given to idols may be touched as long as the one's heart belongs to God. Paul affirms that he is an apostle. He says that God cares for the apostles. A man who preaches the Gospel must live by it. Paul says that he is weak and therefore preaches to the weak. He begs the followers of Christ to keep the commandments. Idols mean nothing but sacrifices should not be made to them. Whoever makes such sacrifices should be shunned. Gentiles and Jews are to be treated the same. They should follow Paul as he follows Christ. The Lord of every man is Jesus. A woman is to pray with her head covered.

Paul remains concerned about divisions in the church. He recounts the process of the Last Supper and Communion. This is how people may become one with God. A man may speak of God or Jesus but they all speak of the same. Everyone is a part of the same body.

Men and women of the church should work according to their ability. Charity is good and not in vain. Everyone should be charitable. "When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things." 1 Corinthians, 13:11-12. Paul says this to show that now that the people know of Christ, they should act differently than they did when they were ignorant. Prophets speak to men of the things that will improve them. Men should speak only what is pure, like the prophets. The church should come together. Women should be silent in church; everything should be performed decently.

Topic Tracking: Gender 11

The Gospel must be declared to all people. There were many apostles before Paul and he declares that he is the last and the least. Everyone will be redeemed in Christ. All flesh in the world is different but all flesh of men is the same. Paul promises that he will come to Corinth. He salutes them and ends his letter.

Topic Tracking: Revision 12

2 Corinthians

Paul writes again to the Church at Corinth and speaks of Christ. Jesus must be understood with simplicity. Paul says that he has not come to Corinth but calls on God to witness his soul. He apologizes that he will not be coming soon but asks them to be happy in God. He asks them to command themselves. They should understand that the testament of God is written by the spirit of God rather than ink. God makes them all ministers of his word. They should open their hearts to the spirit. By hiding the Gospel, they deprive the ignorant of salvation. They must keep it alive. Although they are troubled, they are not distressed because God watches out for them.

Topic Tracking: Faith 9
Topic Tracking: Revision 13

Everything may be lost in the future but heaven still remains. Men should be persuaded to know the truth of God and the terror. Love for Jesus will save men; he died so that everyone may live. Paul beseeches them not to receive the word of God in vain. Men should not give offence; the temple should not accept idols.

Whoever keeps the promises will be received by God. Paul says he does not reprimand them for their sins but rejoices that they have the conscience to feel bad. The grace of God is given to the churches because they give themselves to God. Whoever gathers much gathers nothing without God. He says it is superfluous to write of the saints but he who sows sparingly reaps sparingly. Every man should work according to his lot. Paul says that it is not a shame to terrify them with his letters because it is important to be in word as you would be in deed. He is like a parent who wishes to marry them to God as virgins without sin.

Paul promises he will not stop speaking the truth of God. He has been whipped, beaten and hit with stones for doing so. He has suffered for the work of God but escaped his jailers. He tells them that he knew a man of the church who spoke of heaven and glory. He said that the grace of God was not enough for a man. Paul says that the man became a fool in glorifying God but overcame this.

Paul writes that he fears when he comes to them he will not find them as he wants them to be. He promises, however, that he will come. The only proof he can give that he speaks the word of God may be found in their hearts.

Galatians

The rest of the New Testament consists of letters between the heads of the Church. Galatians is a letter from Paul to Galatia.

Paul tells the people of Galatia that anyone who speaks of a Gospel other than his ought to be cursed and avoided. He promises that his words come from God and no other source. Paul went to Jerusalem with Barnabas and Titus. There, Titus was compelled to be circumcised. The Gospel of circumcision was given to him. He was told to remember the poor. Gentiles do not need to act as Jews, in reference to circumcision, as long as they believe in Christ.

Paul calls the Galatians foolish because they ignore the works of Christ. He redeemed men from the curse of law. Jesus supersedes the law. In Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek; all men are part of Christ. The heirs of Christ are not different: they are like children or slaves before a master. Paul writes that he is afraid for the Galatians because they do not understand the truth of Christ. Circumcision does not keep a man out of the body of Christ. Law is fulfilled only in following the Lord. He tells them to share each other's burden. Everyone must keep the laws whether circumcised or not. Circumcision does not make one holy.

Topic Tracking: Revision 14

Ephesians

Paul writes a letter to the Church at Ephesus.

Paul writes of Christ because he has heard of the Ephesians' faith in God. He is impressed. He tells them that Jesus has brought them back to life because once they were dead in sin. He speaks again of circumcision. He emphasizes that what is most important is that which a person believes. The laws of God must be kept in order for men to be holy.

Paul tells them that he is a prisoner for the sake of the Gentiles. He writes so that they might know the mystery of God. He was made a minister to spread the word. He spreads the word of God, not man. He calls them to recognize that there is only one body of Christ. They should walk not as Gentiles or Jews but as members of the united Body of God. They should follow the commandments and keep no room for the Devil. In leisure men should not talk of sin but they should take comfort in the psalms and songs. Husbands must love their wives. The great mystery of God is that everyone is a member of his body. It is right for children to obey their parents and know their betters.

Paul asks the Ephesians to be in the Church of God, united with other churches.

Topic Tracking: Miracles 9
Topic Tracking: Faith 10
Topic Tracking: Gender 12

Philippians

Paul and Timotheus write to the church at Philippi.

Paul and Timotheus tell the Philippians to pray and be filled with righteousness. To live in Christ and die in his name is to gain the Kingdom of heaven. Their speech should be dedicated to God and nothing else. They should not be frightened because they will receive salvation. Every tongue should speak to glorify God. Paul says that he sent them his brother to ensure this. He is sick with longing for them. They are to be wary of evil and follow the words of God. They should follow him and find their end in Christ. He entreats them to follow the words of God and then rejoices in Christ. He says that they may only know good and evil through God. He tells them that if they speak of the Gospel first, God will provide them with everything they need.

Colossians

Paul writes to Colosse to speak of Christ.

Paul wishes to help the Colossians walk better in the image of Jesus. Jesus is:

"...the head of the body, the church; who is the beginning, the first-born from the dead; that in all things he might have the pre-eminence. For it pleased that Father that in him should all fullness dwell." Colossians, 1:18-9

The Colossians have been alienated occasionally by their sins. Paul wants to lead them back to the Church. He feels great conflict; he wants them to be rooted in Christ so that no man may lead them astray with beguiling words. They have been oppressed by some but this should keep them together. Paul calls on them to rise with Christ and keep others to his commandments. Woman should submit to their husbands, children to their parents. Everyone should submit to God. He asks them to continue praying. He speaks of his friends in the region and salutes them all.

Topic Tracking: Gender 13

1 Thessalonians

Paul writes a letter to the Church in Thessaly with Timotheus.

Paul and Timotheus call on the Thessalonians to keep the word of Jesus in Macedonia. They tell them that they will come and exhort them to follow Jesus truly. They ask them to remember the lengthy labor of God's prophets. Jews struck the prophets down just as they struck down Jesus. They speak of the end of Timotheus' trip to Athens. There, he preached the devotion of the Thessalonians. They beseech them to walk in the way of God and keep the commandments. God has called them into holiness not sin.

They recount the sins they should not commit and encourage them to learn the commandments so that they may not transgress through ignorance. They remind them that God will come and they will receive salvation through his light not the darkness of ignorance.

2 Thessalonians

Paul and Timotheus write again to Thessaly. They begin by thanking God and warn of the forming vengeance against those who do not see the light of Christ. They beseech the Thessalonians to not be deceived by unrighteous men. Whoever opposes God does the work of the Devil. All who are deceived will be damned. They give thanks to God and tell the Thessalonians to comfort their hearts. They end by praying that God will stay them from evil. All the Thessalonians must do is follow God and the word. Any man who does not know the word should be enlightened.

1 Timothy

Paul writes to Timothy.

Paul asks Timothy to go to Ephesus and teach while he stays in Macedonia. They are spreading the word of God to counter the Blasphemers. They must have faith and follow the words of Christ. Paul asks for prayers for men that they learn the words of Jesus. He wants all men to pray and women to learn in silence and subjugation.

Paul gives rules for the servants of the church. A bishop must be blameless, and follow all the commandments. A bishop's wife must be faithful. A deacon must have only one wife. Paul hopes to come to Timothy soon. He says that some will depart from the faith and must be separated from the faithful. Good men should seek little profit. Timothy should not teach this but be an example for others. He should not rebuke the elders but treat all men as brothers. Younger women should not be idle because they will turn to evil young widows and will lead people astray.

Topic Tracking: Gender 14

Elders should be accused only in front of two or three witnesses. Sins and good works may be secret or overt. Masters should treat servants well. Anyone who teaches otherwise is wrong. Wealth can be a snare for good men. Timothy must "Fight the good fight of Faith" 1 Timothy, 6:12. Paul charges him to not lead men astray. He is to embrace good men and admonish the wicked.

2 Timothy

Paul writes again to Timothy.

Paul desires to see Timothy. He tells him not to be ashamed of the word of God. He should clutch to the word. He asks for mercy for those who turn away from him. He tells Timothy to be strong. The man who labors hard will partake in the first fruit. This is reason Paul labors so arduously for God. If they suffer, they will reign with God. Men should purge themselves from evil and embrace good. Timothy must flee lust and sin and dodge the shafts of the Devil.

The last days will be perilous. There will be many men who persecute the good but God will deliver them. All this scripture comes from God so that a man who follows him may be more perfect. Paul charges Timothy to preach the word and teach men to endure. There are those who will turn from the truth but Timothy must continue to fight the good fight. He sends some of the apostles to help him. He prays that God will deliver him and asks Timothy to come before winter.

Topic Tracking: Revision 15

Titus

Paul writes to Titus about God.

Paul left Titus in Greece. He tells him that a Bishop must be blameless. He warns that many of those who are circumcised are deceivers. Titus should rebuke even those who pay no heed. He should speak the Gospel and teach right behavior so men may eschew their worldly lusts. Paul tells Titus to instruct the men to be subordinate to their leaders and speak evil of no one. He will be saved not because of his works but because of God's mercy. He plans to send men to him but wants to meet Titus in the winter.

Philemon

Paul writes a letter to Philemon from captivity.

Paul tells Philemon to keep the ways of God. Paul suffered imprisonment for the sake of God. He tells him to minister to the Lord. Paul says that even in prison he rejoices in God. He asks him to prepare a lodging for his release.

Hebrews

God once spoke to men through the prophets. Then he spoke through his son. He asked for everyone to worship him as the only God. All who do not will perish. Men ought to give more heed to these words. God speaks through angels and miracles. Man is a little lower than the angels and so was Christ as a man. Men should trust in him. His suffering and temptation made salvation possible for men. Jesus is worthy of more glory than Moses. Men should not have hard hearts but they should avoid evil. Moses grieved with the sinners for forty years and did not abandon them.

Men should fear being left alone by God; they should truly hear the Gospel. They should rest on the seventh day. The word of God is quick and no creature may deceive him. Jesus knew personally the temptation of sin but resisted it. Priests must have compassion for the ignorant. Jesus was not a priest but he showed others the way of righteousness. In the doctrines of Christ, men move closer to perfection. God made a covenant with Abraham. The order of priests follows ancient rules. Abraham made a King the first priest. The priesthood was given a tenth of everything just like the Levites. The priesthood has changed since that time because Jesus came out of a tribe other than Levi. The new order of priests is like the ancient: they are made not born like the Levites.

Jesus is the highest priest. He was ordained by God like Moses. New covenants are made and old commands fade away. The first covenant had a holy sanctuary. The new one does also, but without the sacrifices. Moses blessed the commandments with blood sacrifices. Jesus enters not into a man-made sanctuary but the sanctuary of heaven. He sacrificed himself not an animal. The sacrifice of bulls and goats cannot take away sins. Jesus was the ultimate sacrifice. Men have been consecrated by his flesh; they should make no other sacrifice.

Faith is the most important substance of religion. All of the ancient leaders had faith in God. So did the great prophets. The people must have faith in Jesus. Men ought not to sell their birthright for food. They should not let themselves be deceived. Jesus is the mediator of the new covenant. His words are the vessel. Men should continue to love their brothers, remain subjects to their masters, avoid strange doctrines, follow God, pray, and God will make them more perfect.

Topic Tracking: Revision 16
Topic Tracking: Faith 10

Epistle of James

James writes to the Twelve Tribes of Israel.

James exhorts the twelve tribes to work in patience: that the high be made low and the low be made high. The man who endures temptation is blessed. Every man is tempted. He who is tempted usually sins. God granted them truth. Men should not show wrath because rage is not righteous. A man who hears the word but does not act is bad. A man who merely speaks religion, speaks in vain.

If a rich man and a poor man comes to their home and the rich man is treated well they are partial. Therefore, they are judges with evil thoughts. Who keeps all the law except for one part transgresses against it all. Faith should be evident in works. In this way, a man may be more perfect. There are no masters but only servants of the same body. A man's tongue can be more evil than a deed. A wise man must prove his wisdom with wise works.

The people war and fight and ignore the scriptures. They must submit themselves to God. He who knows what is good but does not do it sins. Riches are corrupt. Rich men live in pleasure on earth but will be condemned in death. Men should not have grudges against each other. They should not swear by heaven. The afflicted should pray. The merry should celebrate God. Men should count their faults. Whoever converts a sinner from error saves his soul from damnation.

First Epistle of Peter

First Epistle of Peter

Peter writes to strangers throughout the world to be obedient to Christ.

Whoever follows the ways of Jesus will inherit salvation. Faith is more precious than gold. These things have been revealed and must be passed on. They should be holy like Christ. Jesus died and rose so that they would believe. If they are born again in him they will be incorruptible. The word endures forever but "all flesh is grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away." First Epistle of Peter, 1:24.

Men should lay aside all malice and be as newborn babes. Jesus is the cornerstone of their homes. They should be people of God and speak out against evildoers. Men should submit to their leaders and use what liberties they have for God's will. Who does no sin is guileless. When a sheep goes astray, God is the shepherd. Wives should submit to their husbands. Men and women should be of one mind together. Christ died for their sins and is the right hand of God in heaven. They should honor Christ and not sin. Charity should be practiced and men should minister to the ignorant.

Men should delight if they are reproached for speaking the words of Christ. They should not suffer for sins but for righteousness. Peter exhorts the city to lead their flocks well and follow the Lord.

Second Epistle of Peter

Peter writes to the world and praises the knowledge given to it by Jesus. They should embrace this knowledge but be tempered. Whoever lacks knowledge is blind. They should follow God not fables. There are false prophets and many follow their evil ways. God will not spare them just as he did not spare Sodom and Gomorrah and evil angels. Whoever is unrighteous receives the rewards of unrighteousness. Sins are wells without water. The second epistle is to remind the people to be aware of the prophets and not ignorant of God. God will come again and bring salvation. Men should avoid error and sin.

First Epistle of John

John writes to those who have already heard the words of Christ.

All men sin; all men can do is confess their sins. If anyone says that he has not sinned, he is a liar. With Jesus, man may really move away from sin. They must keep his commandments. Who does not keep all the commandments is in the dark. All must live as brothers. The world passes away but God does not. The Antichrist will come. There are many Antichrists. Men must avoid them and embrace God to receive eternal life. God has given love to men and they should keep this by avoiding sin. The Devil is the father of sin. Sons of God do not sin. Whoever hates is a murderer. Men should sin neither in word nor in deed.

Jesus' one commandment is that men should love one another. They should not believe false spirits but hear the Gospel of God. God is love. Whoever loves knows God. Whoever hates his brother cannot be one with God. Men should keep God's laws. John beseeches them to stop sinning and stop the sins of their brothers. Men should stay away from idols.

Second Epistle of John

John loves those who know the truth. Love is the commandment of God. There are many deceivers in the world who say that Jesus did not rise from the dead. They are Antichrists. Whoever sins does not follow Christ. Whoever will not follow Christ should not be tolerated.

Third Epistle of John

Third Epistle of John

John writes to Gaius wishing him to prosper. He rejoices that he walks in the truth. They should receive all men who walk in truth.

Epistle of Jude

Jude, a brother of James, writes to all those who are sanctified by God. He tells them to contend for faith because there are those who try to undermine it. Those who undermine it will be destroyed like Sodom and Gomorrah. They should not execute judgment on anyone beside themselves. Wisdom comes only from God.

Revelations

The book of Revelations is allegedly the revelation of Jesus as given to John by an angel.

Whoever reads this book is blessed. Jesus is the beginning and the end. He saw seven golden candlesticks, one like a man with white hair and brass like feet. Jesus imagined seven stars in his right hand. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches. The candlesticks are the seven churches. Jesus turns to the seven churches. He knows the works of one. He asks them to repent. He knows the words of another and asks them to be faithful. In another church some sin: they keep idols and fornicate. He promises that whoever is righteous will be clothed in white raiment. Whoever hold the key of David opens the door that never shuts. Jesus will make those who overcome sin pillars of the church. He promises that he will spit out those who are lukewarm. He warns people to hear his voice.

Jesus looks and sees a door in heaven. A throne made of jasper and sardine stone. He sees twenty-four seats and twenty-four elders with a sea of crystal before the throne. There are four beasts of eyes before it. One is a calf, another a lion, a third has a fist of a man and the fourth is an eagle. They all sing to God. There is a book with seven seals. No one is worthy to look in it. Jesus comes to look in it. The lamb has seven horns and seven eyes. He opens the book and everyone sings. The first seal opens with thunder. A white horse appears, a conqueror. The second seal yields a red horse. In the fifth there is death; souls are slain for the word of God. Each receives white robes. The sixth brings an earthquake. The world crashes together; the sky falls. There is a great day of wrath to come.

Four angels stand on the four corners of the earth. The winds stop. They say not to hurt the earth. 144,000 of the tribes of Israel sit around. Behind them is a multitude crying out to God. The seventh seal brings a half hour of total silence. Seven angels stand before God with trumpets. Incense is burned. Angels sound the trumpets and bring death and destruction everywhere. The fifth angel brings a bottomless pit into which everything falls. The four angels are loosed to slay a third of men. Beasts accompany them. The men who survive this do not repent. Another angel descends and roars. A voice speaks and asks for these things to be sealed in a book and the book was given to John.

A rod is given to measure the altar and temple. The seventh angel sounds his horn and the elders give thanks. The temple of God is opened in heaven. A woman appears with child. A seven-headed dragon is ready to devour the child. The angels fight the dragon because it is the Devil. They overcome it and cast it into the earth. Because of this, it persecuted the woman and all of her daughters.

On the sea a beast, part leopard, dragon, lion and bear, rises up. Some men worship the beast. Another beast rises with two horns. It speaks and does great wonders. It deceives men. Its number is "six hundred six score and six" Revelations, 13:18. Jesus sees a lamb on a mountain. Angels sing to worship it. Angels sing of his power. One angel thrusts his sickle into the earth. Wine presses press blood.

Seven angels have seven plagues. They sing of Moses. One of the four beasts gives the angels seven vials of God's wrath. A great voice tells the angels to go pour their vials out. They do this and destroy men and their kingdoms. With the seventh, a voice comes out of heaven and says that everything is done. The angels take him to see a woman dressed in purple. She is tattooed with the words "Babylon, mother of Harlots". The seven hands of the great beast are seven mountains. Seven Kings sit on them. Five have fallen, one exists and one is to come. There are ten kings without kingdoms. The woman is the city that reigns over the earth.

Another angel comes down and says that Babylon has fallen. The merchants of the earth weep. Fine gods go to ruin. All that will remains is truth and righteousness. The twenty-four elders fall on their knees and worship God. Jesus falls on his knees and worships. He sees an Angel in the sun. All the armies of the world gather to make war against the beast. It is defeated.

An angel comes down from heaven and casts Satan into the bottomless pit. The dead live again after a thousand years. Satan will be loosed out of his prison and deceive the nations. There is a great white throne. All the dead stand before God. He judges every man. Who is not judged good is cast into the fire.

After this, John sees a new city. It was prepared for the righteous. God tells him to write down all these words for the faithful. The city is made of precious metals and stones. There are three gates on each side. There is no temple because God and Jesus are the temple. John sees a pure river of water coming from the throne of God. After the fall there will be no more curse. Whoever keeps the prophecy of this book is blessed. If it is not kept, man will lose the book of life. Jesus promises to come again soon.