Jesus—The Way, the Truth, the Life
In this book, read about every event in the life of Jesus recorded in the Bible.
INTRODUCTION
The Way, the Truth, the Life
Jesus’ teachings and actions, which are found in the Gospels, can change your life.
SECTION 1
Leading Up to Jesus’ Ministry
CHAPTER 1
Two Messages From God
The angel Gabriel delivered messages that were difficult to believe.
CHAPTER 2
Jesus Is Honored Before His Birth
How did both Elizabeth and her unborn child honor Jesus?
CHAPTER 3
Someone to Prepare the Way Is Born
As soon as Zechariah miraculously regained his speech, he gave an important prophecy.
CHAPTER 4
Mary—Pregnant But Not Married
Does Joseph believe Mary when she says that she is pregnant, not by another man, but by holy spirit?
CHAPTER 6
The Child Who Was Promised
When Joseph and Mary bring Jesus to the temple as a baby, two aged Israelites prophesy about Jesus’ future.
CHAPTER 7
Astrologers Visit Jesus
Why did the star that they saw in the East initially lead them, not to Jesus, but to murderous King Herod?
CHAPTER 8
They Escape From a Wicked Ruler
Three Bible prophecies related to the Messiah are fulfilled early in Jesus’ life.
CHAPTER 10
Jesus’ Family Travels to Jerusalem
Joseph and Mary are frantic when they cannot find Jesus, while he is surprised that they did not immediately know where to look.
CHAPTER 11
John the Baptist Prepares the Way
When some Pharisees and Sadducees come out to him, John condemns them. Why?
SECTION 2
The Beginning of Jesus’ Ministry
CHAPTER 13
Learn From the Way Jesus Faced Temptations
The temptation of Jesus proves two key facts about the Devil.
CHAPTER 14
Jesus Begins to Make Disciples
What convinced the first six of Jesus’ disciples that they had found the Messiah?
CHAPTER 15
Performing His First Miracle
Jesus shows his mother that he is now being directed, not by her, but by his heavenly Father.
CHAPTER 16
Jesus Shows Zeal for True Worship
God’s Law allowed people to buy animals in Jerusalem for sacrifice, so why was Jesus upset with the merchants in the temple?
CHAPTER 18
Jesus Increases as John Decreases
The disciples of John the Baptist are jealous, even though John is not.
CHAPTER 19
Teaching a Samaritan Woman
Jesus tells her something he has apparently not yet said to anyone else.
SECTION 3
Jesus’ Great Ministry in Galilee
CHAPTER 20
Second Miracle While in Cana
From a distance of some 16 miles (26 km), Jesus heals a child.
CHAPTER 21
At the Synagogue in Nazareth
What did Jesus say that made the people of his hometown want to kill him?
CHAPTER 22
Four Disciples Will Be Fishers of Men
He invites them to give up one type of fishing and begin another.
CHAPTER 23
Jesus Performs Great Works in Capernaum
When Jesus expels demons, he stops the demons from telling people that he is the Son of God. Why?
CHAPTER 24
Expanding His Ministry in Galilee
People come to Jesus to be cured, yet Jesus explains that his ministry actually has a greater purpose.
CHAPTER 25
Compassionately Curing a Leper
With a simple yet powerful expression, Jesus proves that he really cares about those whom he heals.
CHAPTER 26
“Your Sins Are Forgiven”
What connection does Jesus show exists between sin and sickness?
CHAPTER 28
Why Do Jesus’ Disciples Not Fast?
Jesus uses an illustration about wineskins to provide the answer.
CHAPTER 29
Can One Do Good Works on the Sabbath?
Why would the Jews persecute Jesus for healing a man who had been sick for 38 years?
CHAPTER 30
Jesus’ Relationship With His Father
The Jews think that Jesus is making himself equal to God, but Jesus makes clear that God is superior to him.
CHAPTER 32
What Is Lawful on the Sabbath?
The Sadducees and Pharisees, normally at odds, unite around a common cause.
CHAPTER 33
Fulfilling Isaiah’s Prophecy
Why does Jesus order those whom he heals not to tell others who he is or what he has done?
CHAPTER 38
John Wants to Hear From Jesus
Why does John the Baptist ask whether Jesus is the Messiah? Is John having doubts?
CHAPTER 39
Woe to an Unresponsive Generation
Jesus says that on Judgment Day, it will be more endurable for the land of Sodom than for Capernaum, the city that has served as his home base.
CHAPTER 40
A Lesson in Forgiveness
By telling a woman who may have been a prostitute that her sins were forgiven, was Jesus saying it is all right to break God’s law?
CHAPTER 43
Illustrations About the Kingdom
Jesus gives eight illustrations to explain aspects of the Kingdom of the heavens.
CHAPTER 44
Jesus Silences a Storm at Sea
When Jesus calmed the wind and waves, he taught a vital lesson about how life would be under his Kingdom rule.
CHAPTER 46
Healed by Touching Jesus’ Garment
Jesus shows his power and compassion in this heartwarming incident.
CHAPTER 47
A Young Girl Lives Again!
People laugh at Jesus when he says that a dead girl is just sleeping. What does he know that they do not?
CHAPTER 48
Performing Miracles, But Rejected Even in Nazareth
The people of Nazareth reject Jesus, not because of his teaching or miracles, but for another reason.
CHAPTER 49
Preaching in Galilee and Training the Apostles
What does the statement ‘the Kingdom of the heavens has drawn near’ really mean?
CHAPTER 50
Prepared to Preach Despite Persecution
Why does Jesus tell the apostles to flee when they are persecuted if they are not to fear death?
CHAPTER 51
Murder During a Birthday Party
Salome’s dance so enthralls Herod that he promises to give her whatever she asks. What is her grisly request?
CHAPTER 52
Feeding Thousands With a Few Loaves and Fish
Jesus’ miracle is so significant that all four Gospels include it.
CHAPTER 53
A Ruler Who Can Control the Elements
What lessons do the apostles learn when Jesus walks on water and calms the wind?
CHAPTER 54
Jesus—“The Bread of Life”
Why does Jesus chastise people even though they made a significant effort to come to him?
CHAPTER 55
Jesus’ Words Shock Many
Jesus teaches something so shocking that many of his disciples abandon him.
CHAPTER 57
Jesus Cures a Girl and a Deaf Man
Why is a woman not offended when Jesus likens people of her nation to little dogs?
CHAPTER 58
He Multiplies Loaves and Warns About Leaven
Jesus’ disciples finally grasp the type of leaven he is talking about.
CHAPTER 60
The Transfiguration—A View of Christ in Glory
What was the transfiguration? What did it mean?
CHAPTER 61
Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Boy
Jesus says that a failed healing was caused by a lack of faith, but on whose part? The boy, his father, or Jesus’ disciples?
CHAPTER 63
Jesus Offers Counsel About Stumbling and Sin
He describes a three-step process for handling serious issues between brothers.
CHAPTER 64
The Need to Forgive
Using the illustration of the unmerciful slave, Jesus shows how seriously God views our willingness to forgive others.
CHAPTER 65
Teaching While Traveling to Jerusalem
In three brief conversations, Jesus identifies attitudes that can prevent a person from following him.
SECTION 4
Jesus’ Later Ministry in Judea
CHAPTER 66
In Jerusalem for the Festival of Tabernacles
What could make those listening to Jesus believe that he was demon-possessed?
CHAPTER 67
“Never Has Any Man Spoken Like This”
Practically the entire Jewish high court opposes Jesus, but one member dares to speak in his behalf.
CHAPTER 68
“The Light of the World”—The Son of God
Jesus said that “the truth will set you free.” Free from what?
CHAPTER 69
Their Father—Abraham or the Devil?
Jesus discusses how to identify the children of Abraham, as well as who his Father really is.
CHAPTER 70
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
The disciples ask why a man was born blind. Did he sin? Did his parents sin? People’s reactions are mixed when Jesus heals the man.
CHAPTER 71
Pharisees Confront Man Who Was Blind
The logic of the former blind man enrages the Pharisees. Just as his parents had feared, the Pharisees expel him from the synagogue.
CHAPTER 72
Jesus Sends 70 Disciples to Preach
In Judea, Jesus sends out 70 disciples as Kingdom proclaimers in teams of two. Where are the disciples to find people to preach to—in the synagogues or in people’s homes?
CHAPTER 73
A Samaritan Proves to Be a Real Neighbor
How does Jesus use the parable of the neighborly Samaritan, or the “good Samaritan,” to teach a powerful lesson?
CHAPTER 74
Lessons About Hospitality and Prayer
Jesus visits Mary and Martha at their home. What does he teach them about hospitality? And how does he later teach his disciples what to pray for?
CHAPTER 75
Jesus Reveals the Source of Happiness
Jesus answers his critics, telling them about “the finger of God” and about how the Kingdom of God has overtaken them. He also reveals how people can find true happiness.
CHAPTER 76
Dining With a Pharisee
Jesus exposes the religious hypocrisy of the scribes and Pharisees. What heavy loads do they pressure people to carry?
CHAPTER 77
Jesus Gives Counsel About Riches
Jesus gives an illustration of a rich man who built bigger storehouses. What counsel does he repeat about the dangers of seeking wealth?
CHAPTER 78
Keep Ready, Faithful Steward!
Jesus expresses his interest in the spiritual well-being of his disciples. What role would a steward play in their spiritual well-being? Why is the counsel to keep ready so important?
CHAPTER 79
Why Destruction Is Ahead
Jesus says that those he is trying to help will be in line for destruction if they don’t repent. Will they learn the important lesson that Jesus tries to teach them about their standing with God?
CHAPTER 80
The Fine Shepherd and the Sheepfolds
The relationship of a shepherd and his sheep well illustrates how Jesus feels about his disciples. Will they recognize his teachings and follow his lead?
CHAPTER 81
One With the Father, But Not God
Some of Jesus’ critics accuse him of making himself equal to God. How does he masterfully refute their false charges?
SECTION 5
Jesus’ Later Ministry East of the Jordan
CHAPTER 82
Jesus’ Ministry in Perea
Jesus explains to his listeners what is needed to gain salvation. His advice was important back then. What about today?
CHAPTER 83
Invitations to a Meal—Whom Does God Invite?
While dining at the home of a Pharisee, Jesus gives an illustration about a grand evening meal. He has an important lesson for all of God’s people. What is it?
CHAPTER 84
Discipleship—How Serious?
Becoming a disciple of Christ is a serious responsibility. Jesus leaves no doubt about what is involved. Some would-be followers may be shocked by what he says.
CHAPTER 85
Rejoicing Over the Sinner Who Repents
The scribes and the Pharisees criticize Jesus for having dealings with common people. In response, Jesus uses illustrations to show how God views sinners.
CHAPTER 86
The Son Who Was Lost Returns
What lessons can we learn from Jesus’ illustration of the prodigal son?
CHAPTER 87
Plan Ahead—Use Practical Wisdom
Jesus uses an illustration of a scheming, corrupt house manager to teach a surprising truth.
CHAPTER 88
A Change for the Rich Man and for Lazarus
The key to understanding Jesus’ parable is identifying who the two main characters represent.
CHAPTER 89
Teaching in Perea on the Way to Judea
He highlights a quality that can help us to forgive even those who sin against us repeatedly.
CHAPTER 90
“The Resurrection and the Life”
What did Jesus mean when he said that those who exercise faith in him “will never die at all”?
CHAPTER 91
Lazarus Is Resurrected
Two key aspects of this event make it impossible even for Jesus’ opposers to deny the miracle.
CHAPTER 92
Ten Lepers Healed—One Shows Gratitude
The healed man shows appreciation not only to Jesus but also to someone else.
CHAPTER 94
Two Great Needs—Prayer and Humility
In his illustration of a wicked judge and a widow, Jesus stresses the value of a particular quality.
CHAPTER 95
Teaching About Divorce and Love for Children
Jesus views young children very differently than his disciples do. Why?
CHAPTER 96
Jesus Answers a Rich Young Ruler
What moves Jesus to say that it is easier for a camel to get through the eye of a sewing needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God?
CHAPTER 97
Illustration of the Workers in the Vineyard
How do the first become last and the last become first?
CHAPTER 98
The Apostles Again Seek Prominence
James and John ask for special positions in the Kingdom, but they are not alone.
CHAPTER 99
Jesus Heals Blind Men and Helps Zacchaeus
How can the seemingly conflicting Bible accounts about Jesus healing a blind man near Jericho be harmonized?
CHAPTER 100
His Illustration of Ten Minas
What did Jesus mean when he said: “To everyone who has, more will be given, but from the one who does not have, even what he has will be taken away”?
SECTION 6
Jesus’ Final Ministry
CHAPTER 101
A Meal at Simon’s House in Bethany
Mary, the sister of Lazarus, does something that stirs controversy, but Jesus defends her.
CHAPTER 103
The Temple Cleansed Again
The merchants in Jerusalem seem to be conducting legitimate business, so why does Jesus call them robbers?
CHAPTER 104
The Jews Hear God’s Voice—Will They Show Faith?
Is there a difference between putting faith in Jesus and acting on that faith?
CHAPTER 105
A Fig Tree Is Used to Teach a Lesson About Faith
Jesus teaches his disciples about the power of faith and explains the reason why God is rejecting the nation of Israel.
CHAPTER 106
Two Illustrations About Vineyards
Find out the meaning of the parables of the man who asked his sons to work in his vineyard and of the man who leased his vineyard to evil cultivators.
CHAPTER 108
Jesus Thwarts Attempts to Entrap Him
He silences first the Pharisees, then the Sadducees, and finally a coalition of his opposers.
CHAPTER 109
Denouncing Religious Opposers
Why does Jesus not show tolerance of religious differences?
CHAPTER 110
Jesus’ Final Day at the Temple
He uses the example of a poor widow to teach a powerful lesson.
CHAPTER 111
The Apostles Ask for a Sign
His prophecy had an initial fulfillment during the first century. Could it also have a later, larger fulfillment?
CHAPTER 112
A Lesson in Vigilance—The Virgins
Did Jesus teach that half of his disciples are foolish and the other half are discreet?
CHAPTER 113
A Lesson in Diligence—The Talents
Jesus’ parable explains his statement: “To everyone who has, more will be given.”
CHAPTER 114
Christ in Power Judges the Sheep and the Goats
Using a striking parable, Jesus explains the basis for everlasting judgment.
CHAPTER 115
Jesus’ Final Passover Approaches
Why is it significant that the religious leaders agree to pay Judas exactly 30 pieces of silver to betray Jesus?
CHAPTER 116
Teaching Humility at the Last Passover
He surprises the apostles by performing a slave’s task.
CHAPTER 117
The Lord’s Evening Meal
Jesus establishes a memorial that his followers are to hold each year on Nisan 14.
CHAPTER 118
A Dispute Over Greatness
The apostles have already forgotten the lesson that Jesus taught earlier the same evening.
CHAPTER 119
Jesus—The Way, the Truth, the Life
Jesus teaches a powerful truth about how to approach God.
CHAPTER 120
Bearing Fruit as Branches and Being Jesus’ Friends
In what way do Jesus’ disciples “bear fruit”?
CHAPTER 121
“Take Courage! I Have Conquered the World”
How can Jesus have conquered the world if the world executed him?
CHAPTER 122
Jesus’ Concluding Prayer in the Upper Room
He makes clear that he accomplished something far more important than bringing salvation to humans.
CHAPTER 123
Praying When Deeply Grieved
Why does Jesus pray: “Remove this cup from me”? Is he backing away from his role to die as a ransom?
CHAPTER 124
Christ Is Betrayed and Arrested
Judas is able to find Jesus even though it is in the middle of the night.
CHAPTER 126
Denials at the House of Caiaphas
How could Peter, a man of faith and devotion, so quickly turn his back on Jesus?
CHAPTER 127
Tried by the Sanhedrin, Then On to Pilate
The Jewish religious leaders reveal their true intentions.
CHAPTER 128
Found Innocent by Both Pilate and Herod
Why does Pilate send Jesus to Herod for judgment? Does Pilate not have the authority to judge Jesus?
CHAPTER 129
Pilate Proclaims: “Look! The Man!”
Even Pilate acknowledges the sterling qualities that Jesus displays.
CHAPTER 130
Jesus Is Handed Over and Led Away to Die
Why does Jesus tell the grieving women to weep for themselves and for their children rather than for him?
CHAPTER 131
An Innocent King Suffers on the Stake
Jesus makes a far-reaching promise to one of the criminals executed with him.
CHAPTER 132
“Certainly This Man Was God’s Son”
The miraculous daytime darkness, earthquake, and rending of the temple curtain all point to one conclusion.
CHAPTER 133
Jesus’ Body Is Prepared and Buried
Why is there such urgency to bury Jesus before sunset?
CHAPTER 134
An Empty Tomb, Because Jesus Is Alive!
After he is resurrected, Jesus first reveals himself to a female disciple rather than to his apostles.
CHAPTER 135
The Resurrected Jesus Appears to Many
How does Jesus prove to his disciples that he has been resurrected?
CHAPTER 136
On the Shore of the Sea of Galilee
Three times, Peter is reminded of how he can prove his love for Jesus.
CHAPTER 137
Hundreds See Him Prior to Pentecost
Between his resurrection and his ascension to heaven, Jesus repeatedly stresses to his disciples what they would receive and how they should use it.
CHAPTER 138
Christ at God’s Right Hand
What would Jesus do while awaiting the time to take action against his enemies?
CHAPTER 139
Jesus Brings Paradise and Finishes His Assignment
He still has much to do before he hands over the Kingdom to his God and Father.
To Imitate Jesus, Be . . .
Jesus displays eight qualities repeatedly throughout his life.
Scripture Index
Use this index to find the place in this book where each verse in the Gospels is considered.
Index of Illustrations (Parables)
Find the chapter in this book where each of Jesus’ illustrations is discussed.
Some Messianic Prophecies
Match events in Jesus’ life to the Bible prophecies that prove him to be the Messiah and to the chapters in this book where they are considered.
The Areas Where Jesus Lived and Taught
This map shows where Jesus carried out his ministry.
