Luke 21

 ²And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. Here we have a poor widow that came by and dropped in two small coins for her donation.

 ³And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all. Jesus tells the people, "this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them." (She gave her last two coins).

 ⁴For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had. The others only gave a small part of their surplus money, "but this poor woman has given all she has." (I remember back in the day when we only had a few coins to give, and you would feel so bad that you could not give like the others). That is how this woman felt. But, Jesus considered her the most generous and humble, and will reward her the most in the end.

 ⁵And as some spake of the temple, how it was adorned with goodly stones and gifts, he said. Some of the disciples began talking about the majestic stonework of the temple and memorial decorations on the walls. (The building looking real good and very impressive).

 ⁶As for these things which ye behold, the days will come, in the which there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. (Mark 13). Many think this took place in 70 AD when the Roman general (Titus), seized Jerusalem. Not so... What Jesus was talking about has not come to pass yet. (The wailing wall still stands). Jesus was speaking of when He returns at the second advent. "Total destruction will leave not one brick, or stone standing."

 ⁷And they asked him, saying, Master, but when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass? What signs do we look for when all this will happen the disciples asked Him? (Matthew 24:1-8).

 ⁸And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. Many will come in the end times preaching a message from God. However, don't believe all those who are preaching traditions of man, and false doctrines. (Matthew 24:4-5, 24:11, 2 Timothy 3:13, 1 John 4:1).

 ⁹But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by. When you hear of these things don't panic, they must take place first. (Matthew 24:6). It is when all you hear is the cry for peace, peace, peace, that will be one of the signs of the end times. What are we hearing today?

 ¹⁰Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. (Mark 13:8). "It's coming soon my friend." In fact, it is happening as we speak.

 ¹¹And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven. We have more earth quakes around the world today than ever before. Countless famines and diseases. But, keep in mind... The famine of the end times is for hearing the Word of God. (Amos 8:11). There will also be signs in the heavens just before the true Christ returns. (Matthew 24:29-30). In the sixth trump, Satan will be cast out of Heaven down to earth by Michael. A serious end time sign from heaven. (Revelation 12:7-9). Do not be deceived!

 ¹²But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake. You will be delivered up if you are one of God's disciples. (Matthew 10:16-21). But, no matter what happens, we are to stand till the end. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. (Matthew 10:22). Stick with the true Christ. Fear none of these things. (Revelation 2:10). Stay working in the field; do not be deceived, or taken by antichrist. What did Christ say? "Those who endure to the end will be saved." And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations. (Revelation 2:26). (Not those who think they are getting a free flight out of here).

 ¹³And it shall turn to you for a testimony. The "Holy Spirit" will be your testimony. (Luke 12:10-12).

 ¹⁴Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer. Don't worry and think about what you will say. Again, the Holy Spirit will speak through you. (Matthew 10:19-20, Mark 13:11).

 ¹⁵For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist. God will give you a mouth of wisdom through the "Holy Spirit" that none of your opponents will be able to refute you. All will hear and understand you. (Even those of other dialects). It's called the Pentecostal tongue. (Acts 2:6-8).

 ¹⁶And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death. Put to death is "delivered up to death." Death being the devil! (Hebrews 2:14). Yes, even those closest to you will deliver you up. Your parents, brothers, sisters, relatives, and friends will betray you. Why? Because they have been deceived, and do not know any better. They think they are doing you a favor because they think they are right in their beliefs, but have been led astray.

 ¹⁷And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. Hated because of Christ and what you teach. (Stay true to Him).

 ¹⁸But there shall not an hair of your head perish. "They can't harm one hair on your head." Do you have the faith and seal of God? (Revelation 9:4).

 ¹⁹In your patience possess ye your souls. Stand firm and you will win your soul. (Let no man, or woman have control over you). You are a free agent led by God.

 ²⁰And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. You can see Jerusalem surrounded by armies now. (Luke 19:43). The coming of the desolator is near. "Satan is on his way."

 ²¹Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto. It's going down now, those in Judea and Jerusalem must flee to the hills. However, those in the country should remain there. (Matthew 24:16, Mark 13:5, Revelation 18:4).

 ²²For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. The days of God's vengeance and the prophetic words of Scripture will be fulfilled. (Luke 4:18-21). "It has come to pass." This is known as the "Gap Theory" between the first advent and the second advent. (Isaiah 61:1-3), to proclaim the "acceptable year of the Lord" and the day of vengeance of our God. The first advent is when Christ came as a babe, to "heal the broken hearted," a "lamb led to the slaughter to be crucified," for the sins of the world. (Psalms 147:3). The second advent is when He comes as "King of Kings and Lord of Lords," to rule with an iron rod of vengeance. (Malachi 4:1-3).

 ²³But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people. Speaking of those who are spiritually deceived by Satan. "Nursing along false teachings." Christ left us for a while, and when He returns at the second advent; He doesn't want to see you whoring around with the antichrist. (Hebrews 10:26-31, 1 Peter 4:17).

 ²⁴And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled. It will come to pass as it is written. (Revelation 11:2).

 ²⁵And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring. Strange signs in the sun, moon, and stars. (Take a good look). Here on earth, the nations will be in turmoil. (Revelation 6:12-14). Sound familiar?

 ²⁶Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. People will be terrified at what they see coming upon the earth when the powers in the heavens will be shaken. (Matthew 24:29, Mark 13:25). Satan and his fallen angels. (Revelation 12:7-9). Remember that Satan comes first at the sixth trump as antichrist.

 ²⁷And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Then the true Christ comes with power and great glory at the seventh trump. (Matthew 25:31). "All the holy angels will be with Him."

 ²⁸And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. "Your salvation is near." "Christ is our redeemer."

 ²⁹And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees. Jesus spoke about this parable of the end times. We need to learn the parable of the fig tree. (Matthew 24:32-35, Mark 13:28-30).

 ³⁰When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand. "Shoot forth," is "Proballo" Greek Strong's Concordance G4261, push to the front, to germinate. When the fig tree begins to germinate, then you know summer is near. (This is a period of time we need to understand).

 ³¹So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand. When these things take place, you know that the Kingdom of God is near. (Luke 12:51-57).

 ³²Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. What generation? The generation of the fig tree. Jeremiah 24 explains about the good and bad figs. The generation of May 15th, 1948 established the generation of the fig tree, when Judah became a nation.

 ³³Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. This heaven and "earth age" will pass away, but the earth and the Word will remain forever. (2 Peter 3:7-14). Read our newsletter titled "Three Earth Ages" for a better understanding.

 ³⁴And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. Don't let the ways of the world cloud your mind. "Always be aware." (1 Thessalonians 5:6-8).

 ³⁵For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. A trap is set for the unexpected. "The return of the antichrist." (1 Peter 5:8).

 ³⁶Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. Keep alert and be a watchmen for you and your brethren. Then you can escape these coming horrors and stand before the "Son of Man." (Luke 12:37-40).

 ³⁷And in the day time he was teaching in the temple; and at night he went out, and abode in the mount that is called the mount of Olives. Jesus taught in the temple every day, and in the evening He returned to Bethany to spend the night on the western slope of the Mount of Olives, above the valley of Kidron. "One of His favorite places." The Kidron Valley is located on the eastern edge of Jerusalem, between the Temple Mount and the Mount of Olives. (Zechariah 14:4).

 ³⁸And all the people came early in the morning to him in the temple, for to hear him. The crowds gathered at the Temple early in the morning to hear Him preach the Word.Luke 22

 ²And the chief priests and scribes sought how they might kill him; for they feared the people. The chief priests and teachers of the religious law were plotting to kill Jesus. (Matthew 21:45-46, Mark 14:1-2). This should let you know who the bad guys really are. Lets go back a little... Who was the first murderer? It was Cain. Who was Cain? The son of the devil. (Read our newsletter topic titled "Sons of Cain"). You will find that it was the sons of Cain (sons of the devil), who killed many of the prophets and plotted to kill Jesus.

 ³Then entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve. What happened to Judas? "He let his guard down and Satan entered him." (John 6:70-71, John 13:2, John 13:27). Never let your guard down when it comes to Satan. That is why we should keep the gospel armor on at all times. What is this gospel armor? "The Word of God." (Ephesians 6:11-17).

 ⁴And he went his way, and communed with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray him unto them. Judas (now controlled by Satan), went to the head priests to discuss the best way to deliver Christ up. (Matthew 26:14).

 ⁵And they were glad, and covenanted to give him money. Made a contract with Judas for thirty pieces of silver (blood money), the price of a slave. (Matthew 26:15).

 ⁶And he promised, and sought opportunity to betray him unto them in the absence of the multitude. He wanted to do it real sneaky, so the people would not know about it. (Matthew 26:16). "This way the people could not stop him."

 ⁷Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover must be killed. Festival of Unleavened Bread, when the Lamb is sacrificed. Remember that Christ became our Passover. (1 Corinthians 5:7).

 ⁸And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and prepare us the passover, that we may eat. The feast before the true Passover Lamb is sacrificed. Again, this would be the last supper.

 ⁹And they said unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare? Where should the feast take place?

 ¹⁰And he said unto them, Behold, when ye are entered into the city, there shall a man meet you, bearing a pitcher of water; follow him into the house where he entereth in. The man carrying the water would be Mark Johns father. (Acts 12:12). They met at Mark Johns house many times for prayers.

 ¹¹And ye shall say unto the goodman of the house, The Master saith unto thee, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples? This was all pre-arranged by God.

 ¹²And he shall shew you a large upper room furnished: there make ready. Upstairs to the large room of the house where it is already set up for the meal.

 ¹³And they went, and found as he had said unto them: and they made ready the passover. They went to the city and found everything just as Jesus said. Again, all pre-arranged.

 ¹⁴And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him. They sat down together with Jesus for the Passover meal at the last supper.

 ¹⁵And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer. This would be the last Passover meal Jesus would have with the disciples. (John 31:1).

 ¹⁶For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God. Jesus explained to them that this would be the last meal with them until its meaning is fulfilled in the "Kingdom of God."

 ¹⁷And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take this, and divide it among yourselves. Then He took the "cup" of wine and gave thanks to God for it. Then He gave the "cup" to the disciples and told them to share it among themselves. This cup Jesus drank from was nothing fancy as you see in the movies. It was just a common cup used for drinking. (Probably carved from wood).

 ¹⁸For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come. The fruit of the vine is the true "Blood of Christ."

 ¹⁹And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. The true "Bread of Life." (Communion is all about the remembrance of Jesus Christ at this Passover meal). Something Christians should take part in at least once a year in His remembrance.

 ²⁰Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you. The cup of the "New Covenant." A covenant between God an His people, through the shedding of blood by His only begotten Son.

 ²¹But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table. But, here sits a friend among us that will betray Me. (Mark 14:18).

 ²²And truly the Son of man goeth, as it was determined: but woe unto that man by whom he is betrayed! Determined that the Son of Man must die, but sorrow awaits the one who betrays Him.

 ²³And they began to enquire among themselves, which of them it was that should do this thing. Which one of us would ever do such a detestable thing, the disciples asked each other?

 ²⁴And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest. Then they began to dispute among themselves; who was the greatest among them. (Mark 9:34). "Always bringing the flesh into play." Why do so many people think they are so great?

 ²⁵And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. He is saying here that the kings and great men (the leaders of the country), lord it over the people, yet they are called friends of the people. (You see it in today's world among our leaders).

 ²⁶But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. He is saying here that to be a good Christian it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant. (Matthew 23:8-12). Why? Because Christ served them as a humble servant, and He is the one who sets the example. Remember in the first advent, Christ came as a servant to the people so that they may have a chance at salvation. However, in the second advent, He will come as "King of Kings and Lord of Lords." No more playing around, this will be some serious stuff.

 ²⁷For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. In normal conditions, who is more important, the one who sits at the table, or the one who serves? "The one who sits at the table." But not here; for I am among you as one who serves. (Luke 12:37). Blessed are those servants who are doing His work when He returns.

 ²⁸Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. You were with Me in all My trials. "Speaking of those who stay till the end." (Matthew 24:13).

 ²⁹And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me. Just as My Father has granted Me a Kingdom, I now grant you the right to the Kingdom also. (Matthew 25:34, James 2:5).

 ³⁰That ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Those who overcome, remain till the end, and serve the living God. They will drink at the table in the "Kingdom of God." Those who serve Him will be sitting upon thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. (Matthew 19:28, Revelation 3:21).

 ³¹And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat. Jesus tells Peter (Simon), that Satan is going to find your weakness and twist your mind a little. (1 Peter 5:8).

 ³²But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. Christ knew He would be betrayed by Peter (Simon), and that Peter would repent when he recovered.

 ³³And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death. Peter was very sincere and meant what he said, but really had no control over what would happen. (This was an example to us to show how anyone can fall short at times when the devil comes upon us). "Be aware of Satan and his tricks of deception."

 ³⁴And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me. Christ told Peter what would happen and that he would deny Him three times. (Mark 14:30). "When Peter heard this I am sure it broke his heart."

 ³⁵And he said unto them, When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said, Nothing. When I sent you out without anything but the Word, did you need anything? "Not at all." (Matthew 10:9-10, Mark 6:8-9).

 ³⁶Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one. What Jesus is saying here is that, "if you do not have enough faith, then you better take these things with you." We need to trust in Christ, not things of the world or man. (Just as Peter, you can't even trust yourself). The sword that Christ wants us to carry, is the "Sword of the Lord." (Hebrews 4:12, Revelation 1:16).

 ³⁷For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the transgressors: for the things concerning me have an end. It is written that this prophecy about Christ will come true. (Isaiah 53:11-12).

 ³⁸And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said unto them, It is enough. We have two swords among us Lord the disciples replied. (They still did not understand what He meant). The disciples want to get ready for battle, Christ wants them to get ready for His crucifixion and what's to come.

 ³⁹And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him. Jesus left accompanied by His disciples, headed to Bethany, and went as usual to the Mount of Olives. (Mark 11:11).

 ⁴⁰And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation. Pray that you can keep from temptation. (Matthew 26:41).

 ⁴¹And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed. Jesus went to pray to the Heavenly Father. (Mark 14:35).

 ⁴²Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. What was Christ praying for? Jesus may have been asking the Heavenly Father if He could do this another way. But then again, Jesus knew the crucifixion had to happen. I believe Jesus was asking to take away the "cup of wrath" that would be poured out in the end times. (Psalm 75:8, Isaiah 51:17, Jeremiah 25:15-17, Revelation 14:10, 16:19, 18:6).

 ⁴³And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him. The angel appeared to invigorate Him, giving Him strength to carry out His mission.

 ⁴⁴And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. Being in distress of mind He prayed more earnestly. "He was in acute anxiety of the spirit." (John 12:27).

 ⁴⁵And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow. He rose up from meditation and the disciples that were to be on watch were asleep. (Probably exhausted from grief).

 ⁴⁶And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. Why are you sleeping Jesus asked the disciples? Get up and pray so that you will not give into temptation. "They were supposed to be watchman, but they passed out." Jesus warns us about being good watchmen in the end times back in Luke 21. And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. (Luke 21:34).

 ⁴⁷And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and drew near unto Jesus to kiss him. As Jesus was speaking, the crowd approached Him led by Judas. Then Judas walked over and kissed Him. "The kiss of death, the kiss of a traitor." (Mark 14:10).

 ⁴⁸But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss? Would you betray the "Son of Man" with a kiss? (Proverbs 27:6).

 ⁴⁹When they which were about him saw what would follow, they said unto him, Lord, shall we smite with the sword? Should we kill them Lord, the other disciples exclaimed.

 ⁵⁰And one of them smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his right ear. But, Peter rose up and struck out at the high priest's slave, slashing off his right ear. (John 18:10-11). I believe Peter was a master swordsman to perform such a feat with expert control.

 ⁵¹And Jesus answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And he touched his ear, and healed him. But Jesus said, "No more of this." Then He touched the mans ear and healed him. Jesus wanted this to be a peaceful incident.

 ⁵²Then Jesus said unto the chief priests, and captains of the temple, and the elders, which were come to him, Be ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and staves? Jesus asked the chief priest and captains of the temple guard and the elders; "Am I some dangerous revolutionary, that you come with swords and clubs to arrest Me?" (Mark 14:48).

 ⁵³When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness. Why didn't you arrest Me in the temple Jesus asked? Jesus was betrayed to the hour of darkness. (John 12:27). They didn't arrest Him in the temple because the people would have started a riot.

 ⁵⁴Then took they him, and led him, and brought him into the high priest's house. And Peter followed afar off. They arrested Jesus and delivered Him to the high priest's home. (Matthew 26:57-58). This was probably the Jewish Sanhedrim, whose proper province it was to hold trial for those accused of being false prophets, or blasphemers. (Ecclesiastical court).

 ⁵⁵And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the hall, and were set down together, Peter sat down among them. The guards lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and Peter sat around the fire with them. (Here is where it all begins to go down hill for Peter).

 ⁵⁶But a certain maid beheld him as he sat by the fire, and earnestly looked upon him, and said, This man was also with him. A servant girl noticed Peter by the fire and said, "This man was one of Jesus' followers." (Matthew 26:69).

 ⁵⁷And he denied him, saying, Woman, I know him not. I don't even know Him Peter said to the woman. "The first denial."

 ⁵⁸And after a little while another saw him, and said, Thou art also of them. And Peter said, Man, I am not. The maid spread the information that she saw Peter with Jesus to others. (They had their own social media, called word of mouth). Then a man came forward and said, you must be one of them. "I'm not Peter replied." "The second denial."

 ⁵⁹And about the space of one hour after another confidently affirmed, saying, Of a truth this fellow also was with him: for he is a Galilaean. A little later another one came forward and said; "this man is dressed and speaks as a Galilean, he must be one of Jesus' followers." (Matthew 26:73).

 ⁶⁰And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew. Peter insisted and began to curse and swear; "I don't know the man." (Matthew 26:74). "The third and last denial." (Then the rooster crowed just as Jesus had said).

 ⁶¹And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. Then as Jesus looked over at Peter, suddenly Peter realized what had happened as the words Jesus spoke flashed through his head. "Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know Me." (Matthew 26:34). Sometimes, when the odds are against, we will say anything to save our own hides. Did Peter weaken in faith when his life was in danger, or was this all pre-arranged by God as an example to us?

 ⁶²And Peter went out, and wept bitterly. Peter left the courtyard weeping bitterly. How he must of felt after this experience. He just betrayed all that he believed in. (Satan was rejoicing over this one). If you let Satan in, he will break you down.

 ⁶³And the men that held Jesus mocked him, and smote him. Then those who were holding Jesus began mocking and beating Him.

 ⁶⁴And when they had blindfolded him, they struck him on the face, and asked him, saying, Prophesy, who is it that smote thee? Then they blindfolded Jesus and started taking turns slapping Him on the face saying; "who hit you this time prophet?" (Matthew 26:59-68). "He knew who they were; their time will come in the end if they do not repent."

 ⁶⁵And many other things blasphemously spake they against him. They hurled all sorts of terrible insults at Him. "They will treat you the same way if you are one of those who will be delivered up before anti-christ." (Mark 13:9-11).

 ⁶⁶And as soon as it was day, the elders of the people and the chief priests and the scribes came together, and led him into their council, saying. At daybreak Jesus was led before the high council. (For more questioning).

 ⁶⁷Art thou the Christ? tell us. And he said unto them, If I tell you, ye will not believe. If I tell you this, "you won't believe Me anyway."

 ⁶⁸And if I also ask you, ye will not answer me, nor let me go. And if I ask you a question, "you won't answer Me."

 ⁶⁹Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of the power of God. "From now on, the "Son of Man" will be seated in the place of power at the right hand of God." (Psalm 110:1, Revelation 3:21). They didn't like hearing this.

 ⁷⁰Then said they all, Art thou then the Son of God? And he said unto them, Ye say that I am. Are you claiming that you are the Son of God they asked? Jesus replied, "You say I am." (Mark 15:2). They were the ones who really said it.

 ⁷¹And they said, What need we any further witness? for we ourselves have heard of his own mouth. They heard nothing; their minds were dull to the truth. "People only hear what they want to hear." (Mark 14:63-64). Jesus would be condemned to death.

Luke 23

 ²And they began to accuse him, saying, We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to give tribute to Caesar, saying that he himself is Christ a King. They charged Jesus with "leading people astray," "telling them not to pay their taxes," and "claiming He is the Messiah, a king." (Three charges against Him that were not true). How they love to accuse the innocent. People today thrive on accusing others when they don't believe as they do. Just turn on the News, or the Views of meaningless morning talk shows and their Political Correct agendas.

 ³And Pilate asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And he answered him and said, Thou sayest it. Pilate asked Jesus if He was king of the Jews? "You said it, Jesus replied."

 ⁴Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I find no fault in this man. Pilate didn't find anything wrong with Jesus; it was the council that wanted Him dead. (Bunch of hypocrites).

 ⁵And they were the more fierce, saying, He stirreth up the people, teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning from Galilee to this place. He's causing trouble throughout Judea with His teachings. (They couldn't handle the truth). They also didn't like the fact that Jesus was drawing followers right from their own churches. (You will get this reaction when you teach the truth).

 ⁶When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilaean. "Is He a Galilean?"

 ⁷And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time. When they said that He was, Pilate sent Him to Herod Antipas because Galilee was under his jurisdiction, and he happened to be in Jerusalem at the time. "Remember that Herod liked John the Baptist and loved to hear him teach." (It was Herod's wife that wanted him beheaded).

 ⁸And when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad: for he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him; and he hoped to have seen some miracle done by him. Herod was delighted at the opportunity to see Jesus, because he had heard of Him. (Herod was amazed by the Word).

 ⁹Then he questioned with him in many words; but he answered him nothing. Herod asked Jesus many questions, but Jesus did not answer. (Isaiah 53:7).

 ¹⁰And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused him. Here comes the leading priests and teachers of religious law who stood there shouting their false accusations. (Acts 24:5).

 ¹¹And Herod with his men of war set him at nought, and mocked him, and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate. They began to mock and ridicule Jesus. Then they put a royal robe on Him and sent Him back to Pilate, with no compassion.

 ¹²And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for before they were at enmity between themselves. Herod and Pilate who had been enemies before, became friends that day. I wonder who helped arranged that? (It was Satan and the Son's of Cain, the Kenites).

 ¹³And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people. Then Pilate called the leading priests, religious leaders, and the people together.

 ¹⁴Said unto them, Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the people: and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him. "Here's the verdict." I find no fault in Him with these trumped up charges. "He is innocent!"

 ¹⁵No, nor yet Herod: for I sent you to him; and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto him. Herod came to the same conclusion Pilate said and sent Him back to us.

 ¹⁶I will therefore chastise him, and release him. I will have Him flogged and then release Him.

 ¹⁷(For of necessity he must release one unto them at the feast.) It was common practice to release one of the prisoners during the Passover celebration. "Kind of like a pardon at the time." (Mark 15:16, John 18:39).

 ¹⁸And they cried out all at once, saying, Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas. Then the crowd shouted, "Kill Him" and release Barabbas. (Matthew 27:16-23), One of the worst sinners. Are you beginning to see who was behind all this?

 ¹⁹Who for a certain sedition made in the city, and for murder, was cast into prison. Barabbas was in prison for taking part in an insurrection in Jerusalem against the government, and for murder.

 ²⁰Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spake again to them. Pilate argued with them, because he knew Jesus was innocent and wanted to release Him. (John 19:12).

 ²¹But they cried, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. The crowd did not want to hear it and wanted to crucify Jesus. (These were mainly the "Kenites," those who claimed to be Jews, but were of the synagogue of Satan). Read our newsletter topic titled "Sons of Cain" if you are not familiar with the Kenites.

 ²²And he said unto them the third time, Why, what evil hath he done? I have found no cause of death in him: I will therefore chastise him, and let him go. Pilate was doing his best to save Jesus, but the misled crowd wanted Him crucified. (See how a few Kenites and a nudge from Satan can stir up the crowd).

 ²³And they were instant with loud voices, requiring that he might be crucified. And the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed. The mob shouted louder and louder, demanding that Jesus be crucified. (Satan incited the people just as he does today when we have radical protests).

 ²⁴And Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they required. Pilate gave into the people and gave the sentence for Jesus to die. Political correctness; give the people what they want whether it is right or wrong.

 ²⁵And he released unto them him that for sedition and murder was cast into prison, whom they had desired; but he delivered Jesus to their will. As the people requested, Pilate released Barabbas and turned over Jesus to them as they wished. "The very Passover Lamb Himself." (Matthew 27:26, Mark 15:15).

 ²⁶And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus. As Jesus was led away, there was a man from Cyrene named Simon who happened to be coming down from the countryside. The soldiers seized him and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus. (An example to us that we must carry the cross daily to follow after Jesus). (Luke 9:23, 14:27). "There will be times when the cross gets heavy, but we must remain strong till the end." How do we do that? "By staying in the Word."

 ²⁷And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him. The large crowds followed behind, including many grief stricken women. (Matthew 27:55, Mark 15:40).

 ²⁸But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children. Jesus turned to the daughters of Jerusalem and said, don't weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children.

 ²⁹For, behold, the days are coming, in the which they shall say, Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the paps which never gave suck. We can get a better understanding in Matthew 24 and Mark 13. And woe unto them that are with child , and them that give suck in those days. (Matthew 24:19). Jesus was speaking of those who fall for false teachings, traditions of men, and the false messiah. People today love to nurse along false teachings because they cannot except that they may have been deceived. (No one wants to admit they were wrong).

 ³⁰Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us. People will beg the mountains to fall on them because of shame. (Revelation 9:6). Because they follow after false teachings and the antichrist. Do not be deceived!

 ³¹For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry? If the righteous and the teachers do these things and are scarcely saved, what will happen to the ungodly and sinners. (1 Peter 4:17-18). Here is a fact many priests and preachers will not like; "Judgment begins at the pulpit."

 ³²And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death. Two criminals were led out to be executed with Jesus.

 ³³And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. The one malefactor on the right will have eternal life, while the malefactor on the left gets hell. Why? The malefactor on the right acknowledged he was a sinner and repented. (He gets eternal life). The malefactor of the left could care less with no repentance. (He gets eternal damnation). Make sure you are on the right side.

 ³⁴Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. He forgave them for their ignorance. (Acts 3:17). This was written in the old testament; they parted His raiment and cast lots. (Psalm 22:18). Written 1,000 years before the crucifixion.

 ³⁵And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God. The people watched as the leaders scoffed. "Let Him save Himself if He is really the Messiah." (Psalm 71:11, Isaiah 53:3).

 ³⁶And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar. The soldiers mocked Him too, by offering Him vinegar (poor mans wine), to drink. (Mark 15:36). We called it Boones Farm or Ripple back in the 70's.

 ³⁷And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself. They called out to Him; "Save yourself if you are King of the Jews." They were talking to the "King of the World." (Wouldn't want to be in their shoes come judgment day).

 ³⁸And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. A sign hung above Him saying; "THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS." (John 19:19-22).

 ³⁹And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. The one malefactor hanging to the left of Jesus scoffed saying; "If your the Messiah, save yourself and us also to prove it." (We spoke of this guy earlier).

 ⁴⁰But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? The malefactor hanging to the right of Jesus rebuked the other malefactor saying, "Don't you fear God even when you have been sentenced to die?" (This guy repented and was on the right track).

 ⁴¹And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. "We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man hasn't done anything wrong." (1 John 1:8-9). "This malefactor was defending Jesus and repented of his sins."

 ⁴²And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. Remember me when You come into Your Kingdom the malefactor said to Jesus. "He wanted forgiveness for his sins." (Romans 10:9-10).

 ⁴³And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise. "Today you shall be with Me in paradise, Jesus said to the repenting malefactor." (2 Corinthians 5:8).

 ⁴⁴And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. Darkness fell across the whole land from 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. (Amos 8:9, Mark 15:33).

 ⁴⁵And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst. As the sun was darkened, the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn down the middle from top to bottom. (Matthew 27:51, Mark 15:38). "No more separation between you and God." (You can go directly to Him with all your prayers and requests). "Forget man as your go between."

 ⁴⁶And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost. Then Jesus shouted; "Father, I entrust My Spirit into Your hands!" His inner Spirit, "The Holy Spirit."

 ⁴⁷Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man. The centurion saw what had happened and worshipped God saying, "Surely this Man was innocent." (Matthew 27:54, Mark 15:39).

 ⁴⁸And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned. The people (the believers), that were present and saw the crucifixion went home in deep sorrow. (Acts 2:37).

 ⁴⁹And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things. All Jesus friends and family and all who followed Him stood at a distance watching. (Psalm 38:11).

 ⁵⁰And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counsellor; and he was a good man, and a just. A righteous man named Joseph who was a member of the Jewish high council.

 ⁵¹(The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God. This man was Joseph of Arimathaea, Jesus uncle. "The kinsmen redeemer." Jesus traveled with him when He was a boy. He was known as "Joseph the tin-man" because he dealt in metals.

 ⁵²This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Joseph went to Pilate and asked for Jesus body. (Again, kinsmen redeemer).

 ⁵³And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid. Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a long linen cloth, and laid it in his own tomb. (John 19:38-42).

 ⁵⁴And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on. Christ was crucified on a Wednesday between 12 noon and 3:00p.m. then put in the tomb on Wednesday at sundown. Wednesday at sundown to Thursday at sundown was (1) day. Thursday at sundown to Friday at sundown was (2) days. Friday at sundown to Saturday at sundown was (3) days, and He arose sometime during Saturday night. (Saturday being the Sabbath day).

 ⁵⁵And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was laid. The women were eye witnesses to His burial.

 ⁵⁶And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment. The woman went home and prepared spices and ointments to anoint His body. But by the time they had finished, the Sabbath had begun, so they rested as required by law. (Mark 16:1).

Luke 24

 ²And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. The stone entrance was moved. (Matthew 28:2). It is believed that this huge stone was rolled away by an Angel of the Lord.

 ³And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. They entered but the Lord Jesus was gone. "He Has Risen!"

 ⁴And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments. The two beings that appeared (looked like men), were "Angels of the Lord." (John 20:11-12).

 ⁵And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? Why are you looking among the dead when He is alive, "the Angels of Lord said." (Matthew 28:3-5, Mark 16:5-6).

 ⁶He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee. Remember that Jesus told you how it would happen.

 ⁷Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again. Again, He rose from the dead after three days, sometime in the night on the Sabbath. (Matthew 20:18-19, Mark 9:31-32, Luke 24:44-46, Matthew 12:40).

 ⁸And they remembered his words. Then they remembered what He had said.

 ⁹And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest. The disciple John remained, and the women rushed back to the other eleven disciples to tell them what had happened. (Mark 16:7-8).

 ¹⁰It was Mary Magdalene and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles. These were the women that went to tell the disciples what had happened.

 ¹¹And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not. When the men were told, they thought these women were crazy and did not believe them. (Lot of wives tales going on in those days). More going around today.

 ¹²Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass. Peter checked it out and saw that there was an empty linen wrappings in the tomb and wondered what had happened. John arrived there first, but Peter was the first to go inside the tomb. (John 20:3-10). Now... Why was Jesus crucified between two malefactors and buried in a rich mans tomb? (Isaiah 53:3-12). To destroy him that had the power of death, that is the devil. (Hebrews 2:14).

 ¹³And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs. Two of Jesus' followers were walking to the village of Emmaus. (Emmaus meaning warm springs).

 ¹⁴And they talked together of all these things which had happened. They talked about what had happened in detail. (This was quite the experience they just witnessed).

 ¹⁵And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. As they were walking and talking about what had happened, Jesus appeared and began walking with them. Wow! Can you imagine Jesus appearing right beside you. (Don't be surprised if it happens in the near future).

 ¹⁶But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. It was God that kept them form recognizing Him. (Mark 16:12).

 ¹⁷And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad? As they were walking along Jesus asked them, "What are you discussing and why are you so sad?"

 ¹⁸And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days? Cleopas replied, You must be the only person in Jerusalem who hasn't heard about all the things that happened here in the last few days.

 ¹⁹And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people. What things Jesus asked? "The things that happened to Jesus the man form Nazareth they replied." He was a prophet of God who did mighty miracles. (Acts 2:22, 10:38).

 ²⁰And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. Our chief priests and religious rulers handed Him over to be crucified they continued.

 ²¹But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done. We had hoped He was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel. This all happened three days ago.

 ²²Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulchre. The woman who visited His tomb early this morning made an amazing discovery.

 ²³And when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive. They said that His body was missing and they had seen angels who told them Jesus is alive.

 ²⁴And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said: but him they saw not. Then some of the men went out to see His body and it was gone just as the women said. (John 20:1-10).

 ²⁵Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken. You foolish people Jesus replied; "you find it so hard to believe what the prophets wrote in the scriptures."

 ²⁶Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? Wasn't it made clear in the scriptures and predicted that the Messiah would have to suffer all these things before entering His glory. (Isaiah 53:1-12).

 ²⁷And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. Then Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets explaining the things concerning Him. (Genesis 3:15, 26:4, 49:10, Deuteronomy 18:15, Isaiah 7:14, 9:6).

 ²⁸And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further. After walking 7-1/2 miles towards Emmaus and teaching them, Jesus acted as if He were moving on. Why? Because they still didn't realize who He was.

 ²⁹But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them. But they begged Jesus to stay the night with them and Jesus went home with them to pray.

 ³⁰And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them. As they sat down to eat, Jesus took bread and blessed it. Then He broke it and gave it to them. (Acts 27:35).

 ³¹And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight. Suddenly their eyes were opened, and they recognized Jesus. But, at that moment, He disappeared! (Jesus disappeared in a transfigured body). "The Spirit body."

 ³²And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures? They said among themselves; didn't our hearts burn within us as He talked with us on the road explaining the scriptures?

 ³³And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them. Then within the hour they were on their way back to Jerusalem and found the disciples and others who gathered with them.

 ³⁴Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon. They were saying that, "The Lord has really risen." "He appeared to Peter."

 ³⁵And they told what things were done in the way, and how he was known of them in breaking of bread. Then the two from Emmaus told their story of how Jesus had appeared to them as they were walking along the road. And how they recognized Him as He broke bread with them. (Mark 16:12-13).

 ³⁶And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. Just as they were talking about it, Jesus Himself was suddenly standing there among them. "Peace be with you," He said. Jesus appeared again in His transfigured body. "Whether He is visible to us or not is up to God." (Some may actually see Jesus, some may not).

 ³⁷But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. But the whole group was startled and frightened, thinking that they had seen a ghost.

 ³⁸And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Why are you frightened Jesus asked? Why are your hearts filled with doubt?

 ³⁹Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. Look at My hands and My feet. You can see that it is really Me. Touch Me and make sure that I am not a ghost. (Again, He was in a transfigured body).

 ⁴⁰And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet. Then Jesus showed them His hands and feet. (He showed them that they were pierced).

 ⁴¹And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat? While they stood there in disbelief, He asked them, "Do you have anything here to eat?"

 ⁴²And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb. They gave Him a piece of broiled fish and honey.

 ⁴³And he took it, and did eat before them. He ate it as they watched.

 ⁴⁴And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. Then Jesus said to them, when I was with you before, I told you that everything written about Me in the scriptures must be fulfilled. The question is; did they read it?

 ⁴⁵Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures. Then Jesus opened their minds to understanding the scriptures. "Ask for understanding when studying the scriptures and He will open your eyes." (Acts 26:18).

 ⁴⁶And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day. It was written and came to pass. (Psalms 22, written 1,000 years before the crucifixion).

 ⁴⁷And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. "Written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of His name to "all nations," that there is forgiveness of sins for all who repent." (All people of every race).

 ⁴⁸And ye are witnesses of these things. You are witnesses to all these things.

 ⁴⁹And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. I will send you the "Holy Spirit" just as My Father promised. (Joel 2:28-32, John 14:26, 16:7-16, Acts 1:8, 2:1-21).

 ⁵⁰And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. Then Jesus led them to Bethany on the mount of olives to bless them. The same place where He will return at the second advent. (Zechariah 14:4).

 ⁵¹And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. While He was blessing them, He left them being taken up to heaven. (Ephesians 4:8-10).

 ⁵²And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. All who were present worshipped Him and returned to Jerusalem filled with great joy.

 ⁵³And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen. "They spent all their time in the temple, praising God." Amen! (Meaning That's That).

click here to return to books

Keep The Faith,
Bart