THE
TESTIMONY
OF
LUKE,
THE PREACHER OF GOOD NEWS.
[FIRST PROCLAIMED IN GREECE, A. D. 64.]
LUKE’S PREFACE.
I.–INASMUCH as many have undertaken to compose an account of those things, which have been accomplished among us, just as they who were, from the beginning, eye-witnesses, and afterwards assistants of the word, delivered them to us; I have also determined, having exactly traced everything from the first, to write a particular account to you, most excellent Theophilus; that you might know the certainty of those matters in which you have been instructed.
SECTION I.
The Annunciation.
5.–IN the days of Herod, king of Yehuda, there was a priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abijah; and his wife, named Elizabeth, was of the daughters of Aaron. They were both righteous before God, blameless observers of all the Lord’s commandments and ordinances. And they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both advanced in years.
8.–Now when he came to officiate as priest in the order of his course, it fell to him by lot, according to the custom of the priesthood, to offer incense in the sanctuary. And while the incense was burning, the whole congregation was praying outside. There appeared to him an messenger of the Lord, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And Zacharias was agitated at the sight, and in great terror. But the messenger said to him, Fear not, Zacharias; for your prayer is heard, and Elizabeth your wife shall bear you a son, whom you shall name Yohanan. He shall be to you matter of joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice because of his birth. For he shall be great before the Lord; he shall not drink wine, nor any fermented liquor; but he shall be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And many of the sons of Ysrael he shall bring back to the Lord their God. Moreover, he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Eliyah, to reconcile fathers to their children, and, by the wisdom of the righteous, to make ready the disobedient, a people prepared for the Lord. And Zacharias said to the messenger, How will I know this: for I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years? The messenger answering, said to him, I am Gabriel, who attends in the presence of God, and am sent to tell you this joyful news. But know that you shall be mute, and shall not recover your speech, until the day when these things happen, because you have not believed my words, which shall be fulfilled in proper time.
21.–Meanwhile, the people waited for Zacharias, and wondered why he stayed so long in the sanctuary. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived, that he had seen a vision in the sanctuary; for he made them understand by signs, and remained speechless. And when his days of officiating were expired, he returned home. Soon after, Elizabeth his wife conceived, and lived in seclusion five months, and said, The Lord has done this for me, purposing now to deliver me from the reproach among men.
26.–Now, in the sixth month, God sent Gabriel his messenger, to Nazareth, a city of Galilee; to a virgin betrothed (the first stage of marriage in Jewish culture, usually lasting for a year before the wedding night. More formal than engagement ) to a man called Yowceph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Miryam (Mary). When the messenger entered, he said to her, Hail, highly favored one .The Lord be with you, happiest of women! At his appearance and words she was disturbed, and considered in her mind, what this greeting could mean. And the messenger said to her, Fear not, Miryam for you have found favor with God. And behold, you shall conceive and bear a son, whom you shall name Yeshua. (Gk:Iesous, Heb: Yehoshua) He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest. And the Lord God will give him the throne of David his Father. And he shall reign over the house of Yaqob for ever: his reign shall never end. Then said Mary to the messenger, How shall this be, since I have no intimacy with a man? The messenger answering, said to her, The Holy Spirit will descend upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore the holy offspring shall be called the Son of God. And lo! your cousin Elizabeth also has conceived a son in her old age; and she who is called barren, is now in her sixth month; for nothing is impossible with God. And Miryam said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord. Be it to me according to your word. Then the messenger departed.
39.–In those days Miryam set out, and travelled quickly into the hill country, to a city of Yehuwdah; where having entered the house of Zacharias, she greeted Elizabeth. As soon as Elizabeth heard Mary’s salutation, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, and cried with a loud voice, You are the most blessed of women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. But how have I deserved this honor, to be visited by the mother of my Lord? Know, that as soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. And Blessed is she who believed, the Lord will perform the things promised her.
46.–Then Miryam said, My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; because he has looked at the low condition of his handmaid; for from now on, all generations will pronounce me blessed. For the Almighty, whose name is holy, has done wonders for me. His mercy on those who fear him, extends from generation to generation. He displays the strength of his arm, and scatters those who are proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He pulls down rulers from their thrones, and exalts the lowly. The hungry he loads with good; but the rich he sends away empty. He supports Ysrael his servant, (as he promised to our fathers,) in remembrance of His mercy as He spoke to Abraham and his seed forever. And Miryam , after staying with Elizabeth about three months, returned home.
SECTION II.
The Nativity.
57.–WHEN the time for Elizabeth to give birth came, she brought forth a son; and her neighbors and relations who heard, that the Lord had shown her great kindness, rejoiced with her. And, on the eighth day, when they came to the circumcise of the child, they would have called him by his father’s name, Zacharias. And his mother answered, saying, No; but he shall be called Yohanan. They said to her, There is no one of your kindred of that name. They asked his father by signs, how he would have him called. He, asked for a tablet, and wrote upon it, His name is Yohanan, which surprised them all. And his mouth was opened directly, and his tongue was released. And he spoke, praising God. Now all in the neighborhood were struck with fear; and the fame of these things spread throughout all the hill country of Yehuda. And all who heard these things, pondering them in their hearts, said, What will this child be? And the hand of the Lord was with him.
67.–Then Zacharias, his father, being filled with the Holy Spirit, Forthtold, saying, Blessed be the Lord, the God of Ysrael, because he has visited and redeemed his people; and (as anciently he promised by his holy forthtellers) has raised a Prince for the deliverance from our enemies, and from the hands of all who hate us; in kindness to our forefathers and remembrance of his holy covenant;–the oath which he swore to our father Abraham, to grant to us, that being rescued out of the hands of our enemies, we might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness all our days. And you, child, shall be called a Forthteller of the Most High; for you shall go before the Lord, to prepare the way, by giving the knowledge of salvation to his people, in the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God, who has caused a light to spring from on high to visit us, to enlighten those who abide in darkness and in the shades of death; and to direct our feet into the way of peace.
80.–Meanwhile the child grew, and acquired strength of mind, and continued in the deserts, until the time when he made himself known to Ysrael.
Chapter 2
II.–About that time, Caesar Augustus (Kaisar; of Latin origin; Caesar, a title of the Roman emperor) issued an edict, that all the inhabitants of the empire should be registered. (This first registration took effect, when Cyrenius was the governor of Syria.) All went to be registered, every one to his own city, Yowceph also went from Nazareth, a city of Galilee, to a city of David in Yehuda, called Bethlehem, (for he was of the house and lineage of David,) to be registered, with Miryam his betrothed wife, who was pregnant. While they were there, the time came, that she should give birth. And she brought forth her first born son, and wrapped him in swaddling cloths , and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the lodging place. (Gk:kataluma. a guest room)
8.–Now there were shepherds in the fields in that country, who tended the flocks through the night watches. Suddenly a messenger of the Lord stood by them, and a divine glory encompassed them with light, and they were greatly afraid. But the messenger said to them, Fear not; for lo! I bring you good news, which shall prove to be a matter of great joy to all the people; because today is born to you, in the city of David, a Savior, who is the Lord The Anointed. And by this you shall know him; you shall find a babe in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger. Instantly the messenger was attended by a multitude of the heavenly host, who praised God, saying, Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace, among men of good will!
15.–And when the messengers returned to heaven the shepherds said one to another, Let us go to Bethlehem, and see this which has happened, of which the Lord has informed us. And going quickly , they found Mary and Yowceph with the babe, who was laying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told to them, concerning this child. And all who heard it, wondered at the things told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept and remembered these things pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God, for all that they had heard and seen as it had been declared to them.
21.–On the eighth day, when the child was circumcised, they called him Yeshua, the messenger having given him that name, before he was conceived in the womb.
22.–And when the time of their purification was accomplished, they carried him to Yerushalem, as the law of Moses appoints, to present him to the Lord; (as it is written in the law of God, “Every male who is the first born of his mother, is consecrated to the Lord:”) and to offer the sacrifice stated in the law, a pair of turtle doves, or two young pigeons.
25.–Now there was at Yerushalem a man named Simeon, a just and devout man, who expected the comforting of Ysrael; and the Holy Spirit was upon him, and had revealed to him, that he should not die, until he had seen the Lord’s The Anointed. This man came, guided by the Spirit, into the temple. And when the parents brought in the child Yeshua, to do what the law required, he took him into his arms, and blessed God, and said, Now, Lord, in peace dismiss your servant, according to your word; for my eyes have seen the Savior, whom you have provided in the sight of all the world, a light of revelation to the Gentiles, and to be the glory of Ysrael your people. And Yowceph, and the mother of Yeshua, heard with admiration, the things spoken concerning him. And Simeon blessed them, and said to Miryam his mother, This child is destined for the fall and the rise of many in Ysrael, and to serve as a sign to be spoken against ; (yes, your own soul shall be pierced as with a sword;) that the thoughts of many hearts may be disclosed.
36.–There was also a forthtelleress, Anna, daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher, in advanced age, who had lived seven years with a husband, whom she married when a virgin; and being a widow of about eighty-four years, she did not depart from the temple, but served God in prayer and fasting night and day; she also coming in at that moment, gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke concerning Yeshua, to all those in Yerushalem who expected redemption.
39.–After they had performed everything required by the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city Nazareth. And the child grew, and acquired strength of mind, being filled with wisdom, and the favor of God was upon him .
SECTION III.
The Immersion.
41.–NOW, the parents of Yeshua went yearly to Yerushalem at the feast of the Passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went, according to the custom of the festival, and completed the days On their return, the child Yeshua stayed behind in Yerushalem, and neither Yowceph nor his mother knew it. They supposed him to be in the caravan and they went a day’s journey, and then sought him among their relations and acquaintance; but not finding him, they returned to Yerushalem seeking him. And after three days, they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all who heard him, were amazed at his understanding and answers, and they beheld him with astonishment. And his mother said to him, Son, why have you treated us this way? Behold, your father and I have sought you with sorrow. He answered, Why did you seek me? Did you not know that I must be in the courts of my Father? But they did not comprehend his answer.
51.–And he returned with them to Nazareth, and was subordinate to them. And his mother treasured up all these things in her memory. And Yeshua advanced in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.
Chapter 3
III.–Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius, Pontius Pilate being procurator of Yehuda, Herod tetrarch of Galilee, Philip his brother tetrarch of Iturea and the province of Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene; in the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to Yohanan the son of Zacharias, in the wilderness. And he went through all the country along the Yarden, preaching the immersion of repentance for the remission of sins. As it is written in the book of the Forthteller Yeshayah, “The voice of one proclaiming in the wilderness, Prepare a way for the Lord, make for him a straight path. Let every valley be filled, every mountain and hill be leveled; let the crooked roads be made straight, and the rough ways smooth, that all flesh may see the salvation of God.” Then he said to the multitudes, who flocked out to be immersed by him, Offspring of vipers, who has prompted you to flee from the impending wrath? Produce the proper fruits of repentance; and do not say within yourselves, We have Abraham for a father; for I assure you, that of these stones God can raise children to Abraham. And even now the axe lies at the root of the trees. Every tree, therefore, which does not produce good fruit, is cut down, and thrown into the fire.
10.–Upon this the multitude asked him, What must we do then? He answered, Let him who has two coats, give to him who has none; and let him who has food do the same. There came also tax collectors to be immersed, who said, Teacher, what must we do? He answered, Exact no more, than what you are ordered. Soldiers likewise asked him, And what must we do? He answered, hurt no man, either by violence, or false accusation, and be content with your rations.
15.–As the people were in expectation concerning Yohanan, every man imagining within himself, that he might be the Anointed, Yohanan addressed them all, saying, I, immerse in water; but one mightier than I comes, whose shoe strap I am not worthy to loosen; he will immerse you in the Holy Spirit and fire: his winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will thoroughly cleanse his grain; he will gather the wheat into his granary, and consume the chaff in unquenchable fire. And with many other exhortations, he preached the good news to the people.
19.–But Herod the tetrarch having been reprimanded by him, on account of Herodias his brother’s wife, and for all the crimes which Herod had committed, added this to the number, that he confined Yohanan in prison.
21.–Now when Yohanan was immersing all the people, Yeshua was likewise immersed; and while he prayed, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in a physical form, like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, which said, You are my Son, the beloved; in you I delight. Now Yeshua was himself about thirty years when his ministry started, being (as was supposed) a son of Yowceph, son of Heli, son of Matthan, son of Levi, son of Melchi, son of Yanah, son of Yowceph, son of Mattathias, son of Amos, son of Nahum, son of Esli, son of Naggai, son of Maath, son of Mattathias, son of Shimei, son of Yowceph, son of Yehuwdah, son of Yowchanan, son of Zerubabel, son of Salathiel, son of Neri, son of Melchi, son of Addi, son of Cosam, son of Elmodam, son of Er, son of Yehowshuwa, son of Eliezer, son of Yowram, son of Matthat, son of Levi, son of Simeon, son of Yehuwdah, son of Yowceph, son of Yonan, son of Eliakim, son of Meleah, son of Mainan, son of Mattatha, son of Nathan, son of David, son of Yishay, son of Obed, son of Boaz, son of Salmon, son of Nahshon, son of Aminadab, son of Ram, son of Hezron, son of Pharez, son of Yehuwdah, son of Yaqob, son of Yitschaq , son of Abraham, son of Terah, son of Nahor, son of Serug, son of Ragau, son of Peleg, son of Eber, son of Salah, son of Cainan, son of Arphaxad, son of Shem, son of Noah, son of Lamech, son of Methueselah, son of Enoch, son of Yered, son of Mehalaleel, son of Cainan, son of Enos, son of Seth, son of Adam, the son of God.
Chapter 4
IV.–Now Yeshua, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Yarden, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where he continued forty days, and was tempted by The Accuser. Having nothing to eat all that time, when it was ended he was hungry: and The Accuser said to him, If you are God’s Son, command this stone to become bread. Yeshua answered him, saying, It is written, “Man lives not by bread alone.” Then The Accuser, brought him to the top of a high mountain, and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in an instant, and said to him, All this power and glory I will give you; for it is delivered to me, and to whom ever I will, I give it; if, therefore, you will worship me, it shall all be yours. Yeshua answering, said, It is written, “You shall worship the Lord your God, and shall serve him only.” Then he brought him to Yerushalem, and placing him in the pinnacle of the temple, said to him, If you are God’s Son, throw yourself down here; for it is written, “He will give his messengers charge concerning you to keep you; and in their arms they shall uphold your, for fear you dash your foot against a stone.” Yeshua answered, It is said, “You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.” When The Accuser ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a time.
SECTION IV.
The Entrance on the Ministry.
14.–THEN Yeshua, by the power of the Spirit, returned to Galilee, and his renown spread through the whole country, and he taught in their synagogues with universal praise.
16.– Coming to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, he entered the synagogue, as his custom was, on the Day of Rest day, and stood up to read. And they put into his hands the book of the Forthteller Yeshayah, and having opened the book, he found the place, where it was written, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor, to announce liberty to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of acceptance with the Lord.” And having closed the book, and returned it to the servant, he sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed upon him. And he began with saying to them, This very day, the scripture, which you have just now heard, is fulfilled. And all testified of him; and were astonished at the gracious words which he uttered, they said, Is not this Yowceph’s son? He said to them, You will doubtless apply to me this proverb, ‘Physician, cure yourself.’ Do great things here in your own country, as we hear you have done in Capernaum. But in fact, added he, No forthteller was ever well received in his own country. I tell you a truth, there were many widows in Ysrael in the days of Eliyah, when heaven was shut up for three years and a half, so that there was great famine through all the land; yet to none of them was Eliyah sent, but to a widow in Sarepta of Sionia. There were likewise many lepers in Ysrael, in the days of Elisha the Forthteller; and only Naaman the Syrian was cleansed. On hearing this, the whole synagogue were enraged, and breaking up, drove him out of the city, and brought him to the brow of the hill, on which their city was built, that they might throw him down headlong. But he, passing through the middle of them, went away.
31.–Then he came to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the Day of Rest. And they were struck with awe at his manner of teaching; for he spoke with authority.
33.–Now there was in the synagogue a man, possessed by the spirit of an unclean demon, who roared out, saying, Ah! Yeshua of Nazareth, what have you to do with us? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are–the Holy One of God. And Yeshua rebuked him, saying, Be silent, and come out of him. On this the demon, having thrown him into the middle of the assembly, came out without harming him. And they were all in amazement, and said one to another, What does this mean, that with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out? From that time, his fame was proclaimed in every corner of the country.
38.–When he had gone out of the synagogue, he entered the house of Simon, whose wife’s mother, had a violent fever, and they asked him on her behalf. Yeshua standing near her, rebuked the fever, and it left her, and she instantly arose, and served them.
40.–After sunset, all those who had any sickness, of whatever kind of disease, brought them to him; and he, laying his hands on every one, cured them. Demons also came out of many, crying out, You are the Son of God. But he rebuked them, and would not allow them to speak, because they knew that he was the Anointed. When it was day, he went into a desert place; and the multitude sought him out, and came to him, and urged him not to leave them; but he said to them, I must preach the good news of the Reign of God in other cities also, because for this purpose I am sent. Accordingly, he made this known in the synagogues of Galilee.
Chapter 5
V.–Now it happened, as he stood by the lake Gennesareth, the multitude was pressing on him to hear the word of God; seeing two boats aground near the shore where the fishermen landed to wash their nets, he went aboard one of them, which was Simon’s; and, desiring him to put off a little from the land, sat down, and taught the people out of the boat.
4.–When he finished speaking, he said to Simon, Launch out into deep water, and let down your nets for a catch. Simon answered, Master, we have toiled all night, and have caught nothing; nevertheless, at your word, I will let down the net. Having done this, they enclosed such a multitude of fishes, that the net began to break. And they called to their companions, in the other boat, to come and help them. And they came, and loaded both the boats, so that they were near sinking. When Simon (Heb:Shimown ; hearing) Peter (Gk:petros; piece of rock) saw this, he threw himself at Yeshua’ knees, saying, Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man. For the catch of fishes which they had taken, had filled him and all his companions with terror, particularly Yaakob and Yohanan, sons of Zebedee, who were Simon’s partners. And Yeshua said to Simon, Fear not, from now on you shall catch men. And having brought their boats to land, they left all, and followed him.
12.–When he was in one of the neighboring cities, a man covered with leprosy, happening to see him, threw himself on his face, and sought him, saying, Master, if you will, you can cleanse me. Yeshua stretching out his hand, and touching him, said, I will; be cleansed. That instant his leprosy departed from him. And he commanded him to tell no person. But go, said he, show yourself to the priest, and present the offering appointed by Moses, for notification to the people, that you are cleansed. Yet so much the more was Yeshua everywhere talked of, that vast multitudes flocked to hear him, and to be cured by him of their afflictions. And he withdrew into solitary places, and prayed.
17.–One day, as he was teaching, Pharisees, and doctors of law, who had come from Yerushalem, and from every town of Galilee and Yehuda, were sitting nearby; and the power of the Lord was exerted in the cure of the sick. And, behold, some men, carrying on a bed a man afflicted with a paralysis, endeavored to bring him in, and place him before Yeshua; but finding it impracticable by reason of the crowd, they got on the roof, and let him down through the roof tiling, with the little bed before him. Yeshua perceiving their faith, said, Man, your sins are forgiven you. On which the scribes and the Pharisees reasoned , Who is this that speaks evil? Can anyone forgive sins except God? Yeshua knowing their thoughts, addressed himself to them, and said, Why are you reasoning in your hearts? Which is easier, to say, Your sins are forgiven; or to say, Arise and walk? But that you may know, that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins, Arise, (said he to the paralyzed man,) take up your bed, and return to your house. That instant he rose in their presence, took up his bed, and returned home, glorifying God. Seeing this, they were all struck with amazement and fear, and glorified God, saying, We have seen wonderful things today.
27.–After this, he went out, and observing a tax collector, named Levi, sitting at the tax-office, said to him, Follow me. And he arose, left all, and followed him. And Levi made him a great feast in his own house, where there was a great company of tax collectors and others, at table with them. But the scribes and the Pharisees murmured, saying to his disciples, Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners? Yeshua answering, said to them, It is not the healthy, but the sick, who need a physician. I have come to call, not the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.
33.–Then they asked him, How is it that the disciples of Yohanan, and likewise those of the Pharisees, frequently fast and pray, but yours eat and drink? He answered, Would you have the sons of the bridal chamber (or attendants) fast, while the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them: in those days they will fast. He added this comparison, No person mends an old cloak with new cloth; otherwise the new will pull apart the old; besides the old and new will never suit each other. No person puts new wine into old leather bottles; otherwise, the new wine will burst the bottles, and so the wine will be spilled, and the bottles rendered useless. But if new wine be put into new bottles, both will be preserved. Besides, a man, after drinking old wine, does not call immediately for new; for he says, The old is good.
Chapter 6
VI.–On the Day of Rest, as Yeshua was passing through the grain fields, his disciples plucked the kernels of grain, and rubbed them in their hands, and ate them. And some Pharisees said to them, Why do you what is not lawful to do on the Day of Rest? Yeshua replying, said to them, Did you never read what David and his attendants did, when they were hungry; how he entered the house of God, and took and ate the loaves of the presence, and also gave of this bread to his attendants; though it cannot lawfully be eaten by any, but the priests? He added, The Son of Man is master even of the Day of Rest.
6.–It happened also on another Day of Rest, that he went into the synagogue, and taught; a man was there, whose right hand was withered. Now the scribes and the Pharisees watched to see, whether he would heal on the Day of Rest, that they might find matter for accusing him. But he, knowing their thoughts, said to the man, whose hand was withered, Arise, and stand in the middle. And he arose and stood. Then Yeshua said to them, I would ask you one thing Is it lawful on the Day of Rest to do good or evil, to save life, or to destroy? And, looking around on them all, he said to the man, stretch out your hand; and in doing this, his hand was restored like the other. But they were filled with rage, and consulted together, what they should do to Yeshua.
SECTION V.
The Nomination of Delegates.
12.–IN those days, Yeshua went to a mountain to pray, and spent the whole night in prayer. When it was day, he called to him his disciples; and of them he chose twelve, whom he named Delegates. Simon (Heb:Shimown ; hearing), whom he also named Peter (Gk: Petros, rock), and Andrew his brother, Yaakob and Yohanan, Philip and Bartholomew, Matthew and Thomas, Yaakob son of Alpheus, and Simon called the Zealous, Yehuwdah brother of Yaakob, and Yehuwdah Iscariot, who proved a traitor.
17.–Afterward, Yeshua, coming down with them, stopped on level place, where a company of his disciples, with a vast multitude from all parts of Yehuda, Yerushalem, and the maritime country of Tyre and Sidon, were there to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases. Those also who were troubled with unclean spirits, came and were cured. And every one strove to touch him, because a power came from him, which healed them all.
20.–Then fixing his eyes on his disciples, he said, Blessed are you poor, for the kingdom of God is yours! Blessed are you that hunger now, for you shall be satisfied! Blessed are you that weep now, for you shall laugh! Blessed shall you be when men shall hate you, and separate you from their society; yes, reprimand and defame you, on account of the Son of Man! Rejoice on that day, and triumph, knowing that your reward in heaven is great! for so did the fathers treat the Forthtellers. But, Woe for you rich; for you have received your comforts! Woe for you that are full; for you shall hunger! Woe for you who laugh now; for you shall mourn and weep! Woe for you, when all men shall speak well of you; for so did their fathers of the false forthtellers.
27.–But I charge you, my hearers, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who insult you. To him who hits you on one cheek, present the other; and from him who takes your cloak, do not withhold your coat. Give to everyone who asks you; and from him who takes away your goods, do not demand them back. And as you would, have men do to you, do you likewise to them. For if you love those, who love you, what thanks are you entitled to, since even sinners love those, who love them? And if you do good to those, who do good to you, what thanks are you entitled to, since even sinners do the same? And if you lend to those, from whom you hope to receive, what thanks are you entitled to, since even sinners lend to sinners, that they may receive as much in return? But love your enemies, do good and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward shall be great; and you shall be sons of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and evil. Be therefore merciful, as your Father is merciful.
37.–Judge not, and you shall not be judged; condemn not, and you shall not be condemned; release, and you shall be released; give, and you shall receive: good measure, pressed and shaken, and heaped, shall be poured into your lap; for, the very measure you give to others you yourselves shall receive.
39.–He also used this comparison: Can the blind guide the blind? Will not both fall into a ditch? The disciple is not above his teacher; but every finished disciple shall be as his teacher. And why do you observe the speck in your brother’s eye; but do not perceive the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, Brother, let me take out the speck, which is in your eye, not considering that there is a log in your own eye? Pretender!, first take the log out of your own eye: then you will see to take out the speck, which is in your brother’s eye. There is not a good tree, which yields bad fruit; nor a bad tree, which yields good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit. Figs are not gathered off thorns; nor grapes off a bramble-bush. The good man, out of the good treasure of his heart, brings that which is good: the bad man, out of the bad treasure of his heart, brings that which is bad; for it is out of the fullness of the heart, that the mouth speaks.
46.–But why do you, in addressing me, cry, Master, Master, and do not obey my commands! Whoever comes to me, and hears my precepts, and practices them, I will show you whom he resembles: he resembles a man, who built a house, and digging deep, laid the foundation upon the rock: and when an flood came, the torrent broke upon that house, it could not shake it; for it was founded upon the rock. But he who hears, and does not practice, resembles a man, who, without laying a foundation, built a house upon the earth: which, when the torrent broke against it, fell, and it became a great pile of ruins.
Chapter 7
VII.–When he had finished his message in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. And a centurion’s slave, who was dear to his master, was sick, and in danger of dying. And the centurion, having heard about Yeshua, sent to him Jewish elders, to ask him to come and save his slave. When they came to Yeshua, they promptly asked him, saying, He is worthy of this favor; for he loves our nation; and it was he, who built our synagogue. Then Yeshua went with them;; and when he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him to say, Master, do not trouble yourself; for I am not worthy, that you should come under my roof; nor, did I think myself entitled to come into your presence: say but the word, and my slave will be healed. For even I, who am under the authority of others, having soldiers under me, say to one, Go, and he goes; to another, Come, and he comes; and to my slave, Do this, and he does it. Yeshua, hearing these things, admired him, and turning, said to the multitude which followed, I assure you, I have not found such great faith, even in Ysrael. And those who had been sent, having returned to the house, found the slave well.
11.–The day following, he went into a city called Nain, accompanied by his disciples and a great crowd. As he approached the gate of the city, the people were carrying out a dead man, the only son of his mother, who was a widow; and many of the citizens were with her. When the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said to her, Do not weep. Then he advanced, and touched the coffin (the bearers stopping) and said, Young man, arise, I command you. Then he, who had been dead, sat up, and began to speak, and he delivered him to his mother. And all present were struck with awe, and glorified God, saying, A great Forthteller has arisen among us; and, God has visited his people. And this report, concerning him, spread through Yehuda and all the neighboring country.
18.–Now Yohanan’s disciples had informed him of all these things, and he called two of them, whom he sent to Yeshua to ask him, Are you He who comes, or must we expect another? When they came him, they said, Yohanan the Immerser has sent us to ask you, Are you He who comes, or must we expect another? At that very time, Yeshua was delivering many from diseases and afflictions, and evil spirits, and giving sight to many, who were blind. And he returned this answer, Go, and report to Yohanan, what you have seen and heard: the blind are made to see, the lame to walk, the deaf to hear; the leprous are cleansed, the dead are raised, glad news is brought to the poor. And Blessed is he, to whom I shall not prove a stumbling block.
24.–When Yohanan’s messengers departed, Yeshua said to the multitude concerning Yohanan, What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? But what did you go out to see? A man in soft garments? It is in royal palaces, that they, who wear splendid apparel, and live in luxury, are found. What then did you go to see? a Forthteller? yes, I tell you, and something superior to a forthteller. For this is he, concerning whom it is written, “Behold, I send my messenger before you, who shall prepare your way.” For I declare to you, among those who are born of women, there is not a greater forthteller, than Yohanan the Immerser; yet, the least in the Reign of God is greater than he. All the people, even the tax collectors, who heard Yohanan, have, by receiving immersion from him, honored God; whereas, the Pharisees and the lawyers, in not being immersed by him, have rejected the counsel of God with regard to themselves.
31.–To what shall I compare the men of this generation? Whom are they like? They are like children in the market place, of whom their companions calling say, We have played to you upon the flute, but you have not danced; we have sung mournful songs to you, but you have not wept. For Yohanan the Immerser came, abstaining from bread and wine; and you say, He has a demon. The Son of Man came, using both; and you say, He is a lover of banquets and wine, an associate of tax collectors and sinners. But wisdom is justified by her children.
SECTION VI.
Signal Miracles and Instructions.
36.–NOW one of the Pharisees asked Yeshua to eat with him: and he went into the Pharisee’s house, and placed himself at table. And, behold, a woman of the city who was a sinner, knowing that he eating at the house of the Pharisee, brought an alabaster box of perfume, (myrrh) and standing behind at his feet weeping, bathed them with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the perfume. The Pharisee, who had invited him, observing this, said within himself, If this man were a forthteller, he would have known, who this woman is, that touches him, and of what sort; for she is a sinner. Then Yeshua said to him, Simon, I have something to say to you. He answered, Say it, Teacher. A certain lender had two debtors; one owed five hundred denarii (500 days wages), the other fifty. But not having the means to pay, he freely forgave them both. Say then, which of them will love (agape) him most? Simon answered, I suppose the one to whom he forgave most. Yeshua replied, You have judged right. Then turning to the woman, he said to Simon, Do you see this woman? When I came into your house, you gave me no water for my feet; but she has washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with her hair. You gave me no kiss; but she, since she entered, has not ceased kissing my feet. You did not anoint my head with oil; but she has anointed my feet with perfume. Therefore, I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven; therefore, her love (agape) is great. But he to whom little is forgiven, has little love (agape). Then he said to her, Your sins are forgiven. Those, who were at table with him, said within themselves, Who is this, that even forgives sins? But he said to the woman, Your faith has saved you, go in peace.
Chapter 8
VIII.–Afterwards he travelled through cities and villages, proclaiming the good news of the Reign of God, being attended by the twelve, and by certain women, who had been delivered from evil spirits and sickness: Mary, called Magdalene, out of whom went seven demons; Yoanna, wife of Chuza, Herod’s manager; Susanna, and several others, who assisted him with their property.
4.–Now, when a great multitude was assembled, and the people were flocking to him, out of the cities, he spoke by a comparison. The sower went out to sow his grain: and in sowing, part fell by the way side, and was crushed under foot, or picked up by the birds; part fell upon a rock, and when it sprung up, withered away for lack of moisture; part also fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it; and part fell into good soil, and sprung up, and yielded an increase, a hundred fold. Having said this, he called out, Whoever has ears to hear, let him hear.
9.–And his disciples asked him, saying, What does this comparison mean? He answered, It is your privilege to know the secrets of the Reign of God, which to others are couched in comparisons; that, though they look, they may not perceive; though they hear, they may not understand.
11.–Now, this is the meaning of the comparison. The seed is the word of God. By the way side is meant those hearers, out of whose ears The Accuser comes and takes away the word, so that they will not believe and be saved. By the rock is meant those, who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; yet not having it rooted in them, are temporary believers; for in the time of trial they fall off. By the ground with thorns, is meant those hearts, who are entangled in the business, and pursuits, and pleasures of life; which stifle the word, so that it brings no fruit to maturity. But by the good soil, is meant those, who, having heard the word, retain it in a good and honest ears, and with patient enduring bringing forth good fruit.
16.–A lamp is never lit to be covered with a vessel, or put under a bed; but to be set on a stand, that those who enter may see the light. For there is no secret, which shall not be discovered; nor any thing concealed, which shall not be known, and become public. Take care, therefore, how you listen; for to him who has, more shall be given; but from him who has not, shall be taken, even that which he seems to have.
19.–Then his mother and brothers came to speak to him; but could not get near him because of the crowd. And it was told him by some people, Your mother and your brothers are outside, desiring to see you. But he answering, said to them, My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God, and obey.
22.–One day Yeshua having gone into a boat with his disciples, said to them, Let us cross the lake. Accordingly, they launched out. But while they sailed, he fell asleep; and there blew such a storm upon the lake, as to fill the boat with water, and endangered their lives. And they came to him, and awakened him, saying, Master, Master, we perish! Then he arose and rebuked the wind, and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm. And Yeshua said to them, Where is your faith? But they said one to another, with fear and admiration, Who is this that commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him? And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is opposite to Galilee.
27.– Having come ashore, a man of the city met him, who had been long possessed by demons; and who wore no clothes, and had no home but the tombs. When he saw Yeshua, he roared out, and threw himself at his feet, crying, What have you to do with me, Yeshua, Son of the Most High God? I implore you, do not torment me. (For he had ordered the unclean spirit to come out of the Man; for it had frequently seized him, so that when he was chained and bound, he broke his bonds, and was driven by the demon into the wilderness.) Then Yeshua asked him, saying, What is your name? He answered, Legion; because many demons had entered into him. And they asked him, that he would not command them to go into the bottomless deep (Gk:abussos, or abyss); but as there was a numerous herd of swine, feeding on the mountain, that he would permit them to enter into the swine. And he permitted them. Then the demons, having left the man, entered into the swine; and the herd rushed down a high overhang into the lake, and were drowned.
34 The herdsmen, seeing this, fled, and spread the news through the city and villages. And the inhabitants flocked out to see what had happened. Having come to Yeshua, and finding the man, of whom the demons were removed, sitting at the feet of Yeshua, clothed, and in his right mind, they were afraid. But having been informed by the spectators, in what manner the man possessed had been delivered, all the people of the country of the Gadarenes, asked him to leave them; for they were struck with terror. Accordingly, he re-entered the boat and returned. Now, the man, out of whom the demons were gone, asked his permission to attend him. But Yeshua dismissed him, saying, Return home, and relate what great things God has done for you. Then he departed, and preached through all the city, what great things Yeshua had done for him. Yeshua, at his return, was welcomed by the crowd, who were all waiting for him.
41.–Meantime a man named Jairus came, a ruler of the synagogue, who, throwing himself at the feet of Yeshua, sought him to come into his house; for he had an only daughter, about twelve years old, who was dying.
43.–As Yeshua went along, the people crowded him; and a woman, who had been twelve years afflicted with an discharge of blood, and had consumed all her living upon physicians, none of whom could cure her, came behind, and touched the tuft of his cloak; upon which her discharge stopped. Then Yeshua said, Who touched me! When everybody denied it; Peter, and those with him, answered, Master, the multitude crowds and presses you. Yeshua replied, Some person has touched me; for I know, that my power was just now exerted. Then the woman, perceiving that she was discovered, came trembling, and having thrown herself prostrate, declared to him, before all the people, why she had touched him, and how she had been immediately healed: and he said to her, Daughter, take courage, your faith has cured you; go in peace.
49.–While he was yet speaking, one came from the house of the director of the synagogue, who said, Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the Teacher. Yeshua hearing this, said to Jairus, Fear not; only believe, and she shall be well. Coming to the house, he allowed no person to enter with him, except Peter, and Yohanan and Yaakob, and the girl’s father and mother. And all wept, and mourned for her. But he said, Do not weep ; she is not dead, but asleep. And they laughed to scorn at him, knowing that she was dead. But he, having made them all go out, took her by the hand, and called, saying, Child, arise. And her spirit returned, and she arose immediately, and he commanded to give her some food. And her parents were astonished, but he charged them, not to mention to any person, what had happened.
Chapter 9
IX.–He assembled the twelve and gave them power and authority over all the demons, and to cure diseases; and sent them to proclaim the Reign of God, and to heal the sick. And he said to them, Provide nothing for your journey; or staffs, or bag, nor bread, or silver, or two coats a-piece: and continue to stay in whatever house you are received into, until you leave the place. And wherever they will not receive you, shake the dust of your feet, as a testimony against them. They accordingly departed, and travelled through the villages, preaching the good news, and performing cures everywhere.
7.–Now, Herod the tetrarch, having heard of all that Yeshua had done, was perplexed; because some said, Yohanan is risen from the dead; some said Eliyah has appeared; and others, one of the ancient Forthtellers is risen again. And Herod said, Yohanan I beheaded; but who is this, of whom I hear such things? And he desired to see him.
10.–Now, the Delegates having returned, reported to Yeshua all they had done: and taking them with him, he went privately to the city of Bethsaida. But the multitude, having known it, followed him; and he, receiving them, spoke to them concerning the Reign of God; and he healed those who had need of healing.
12.–When the day began to decline, the twelve came to him, and said, Dismiss the people, that they may go to the nearest towns and villages, and provide themselves lodging and food; for we are here in a solitary place. He answered, Supply them yourselves with food. They replied, We have only five loaves and two fishes; unless we go and buy food for all this people. For they were about five thousand men. Then he said to his disciples, Make them recline in parties; fifty in a party. And they did so, making them all recline. Then he took the five loaves and the two fishes; and looking up to heaven, he blessed and broke them, and gave them to his disciples, to set before the multitude. And they all ate, and were satisfied; and took up twelve baskets full of fragments.
SECTION VII.
The Transfiguration.
18.–AFTERWARDS, Yeshua having withdrawn from the multitude to pray, with his disciples, asked them, saying, Who do people say that I am? They answered, Yohanan the Immerser; others say, Eliyah; and others, that one of the ancient Forthtellers is risen again. He said to them, But who do you say that I am? Peter answered, The Anointed of God. Then, having strictly charged them, he prohibited them from telling this to any person; adding, The Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and rise again the third day.
23.–Moreover, he said to all the people, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take his cross daily, and follow me. For whoever would save his life, shall lose it; and whoever will lose his life for my sake, shall save it. What will it profit a man to gain the whole world, with the forfeit or ruin of himself? For whoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words; of him will the Son of Man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in that of the Father, and of the holy messengers. I assure you, that there are some standing here, who shall not taste death until they see the Reign of God.
28.–About eight days after this message, he took with him Peter (Gk:Petros a piece of rock), and Yohanan, and Yaakob, and went up on a mountain to pray. While he prayed, the form of his appearance was changed, and his clothes had a dazzling radiant whiteness. And, behold, two men Moses and Eliyah of a glorious appearance conversed with him, and spoke of the departure, which he was to accomplish at Yerushalem. Now, Peter, and those that were with him, were overpowered with sleep; but when they awoke, they saw his glory, and the two men, who stood with him. As these were leaving Yeshua, Peter said to him, not knowing what he said, Master, it is good for us to stay here: let us, then, make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Eliyah. While he was speaking, a cloud came and covered them, and the disciples were afraid as they entered the cloud.–From the cloud a voice came, which said, This is my Son, the beloved: hear him. When the voice was uttered, Yeshua was found alone. And this they kept secret, telling no person, in those days, anything of what they had seen.
37.–The next day, when they came down from the mountain, a great multitude met him. And one of the crowd cried out, saying, Teacher, I implore you, take pity on my son; for he is my only child. But lo! a spirit seizes him, making him instantly cry out, and fall into convulsions, so that he foams; and afterwards he is very bruised and it hardly leaves him. And I sought your disciples to expel the demon; but they were not able. Then, Yeshua answering, said, O faithless and perverse generation! how long shall I be with you, and endure you? Bring your son into. And, as he was coming, the demon dashed him down in convulsions. And Yeshua rebuked the unclean spirit, and having cured the child, delivered him to his father. And they were all amazed at the great power of God.
44.–While all were admiring everything, which Yeshua did; he said to his disciples, Set in place these words, the Son of Man is to be delivered into the hands of men. But they did not understand this language; it was veiled to them, that they might not understand it; and they were afraid to ask him concerning it.
46.–And there arose a debate among them, as to which of them might be the greatest. But Yeshua, who perceived the thought of their hearts, took a child, and placing him near himself, said to them, Whoever shall receive this child for my sake, receives me; and whoever shall receive me, receives him who sent me: for he who is least among you all, this person shall be great.
49.–Then Yohanan replied, Master, we saw one expelling demons in your name, and we forbade him, because he does not follow along with us. Yeshua answered, Do not forbid him ; for whoever is not against us, is for us.
51.–Now, as the time for him to be received up approached, he set out resolutely for Yerushalem, and sent messengers before, who went into a village of the Samaritans to make preparation for him. But they would not admit him; because they perceived he was going to Yerushalem. His disciples, Yaakob and Yohanan, observing this, said, Master, shall we call down fire from heaven to consume them, as Eliyah did? But he turned and rebuked him, saying, You do not know what kind of spirit you are of; 56 for the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them. Then they went to another village.
57.–As they were on the way, one said to him, Master, I will follow you where ever you go. Yeshua answered, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have places of shelter; but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.
59.–He said to another, Follow me. He answered, Sir, permit me first to bury my father. Yeshua replied, Let the dead bury their dead; but go and preach the Reign of God.
61.–Another likewise said, I will follow you, sir; but first permit me to say good-bye to my family. Yeshua answered, No man, who having put his hand to the plough, looks behind him, is fit for the kingdom of God.
Chapter 10
X.–Afterwards the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two and two before him, into every city and place Where he intended to go. And he said to them, The harvest is plentiful, but the reapers are few: pray therefore, the Lord of the harvest, that he would send laborers to reap it. Go then; behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves. Carry no purse, nor bag, nor shoes; and Greet no person by the way.–Whatever house you enter, say, first, Peace be to this house. And if a son of peace is there, your peace shall rest upon him; if not, it shall return upon yourselves. But remain in the same house, eating and drinking such things as it gives you; for the workman is worthy of his wages: do not go from house to house. And whatever city you enter, if they receive you; eat such things as are set before you; cure the sick, and say to them, The Reign of God comes upon you. But whatever city you enter, if they do not receive you; go out into the streets, and say, The very dirt of your streets, which clings to us, we wipe off against you; know, however, that the Reign of God draws near to you. I assure you, that the condition of Sodom shall be more tolerable on that day, than the condition of that city.
13.–Woe, for you, Chorazin! Woe, for you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles which have been performed in you, had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have reformed long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. Therefore, the condition of Tyre and Sidon shall be more tolerable, in the judgment, than yours. And you, Capernaum, which has been exalted to heaven, shall be thrown down to Hades (the realm of the dead). He that hears you, hears me; and he that rejects you, rejects me; and he that rejects me, rejects him who sent me.
17.–And the seventy returned with joy, saying, Master, even the demons are subject to us, through your name. He said to them, I beheld The Adversary falling like lightning from heaven. Lo! I empower you to tread on serpents, and scorpions, and all the might of the enemy; and nothing shall hurt you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you; but rejoice that your names are enrolled in heaven.
At that time, Yeshua was joyful in spirit, and said, I adore you, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth; because, having hidden these things from the wise and the learned, and you have revealed them to babes. Yes, Father; because this is your pleasure. My Father has imparted everything to me; and no one knows, who the Son is except the Father; or, who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him. Then turning, he said, to his disciples: Blessed are the eyes, which see what you see. For I assure you, that many forthtellers and kings have wished to see the things which you see; but have not seen them: and to hear the things which you hear; but have not heard them.
25.–Then a lawyer stood up, and said, testing him, Teacher, what must I do, to obtain eternal life? Yeshua said to him, What does the law prescribe? What do you read there? He answered, “You shall love the Lord your God, with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” Yeshua replied, You have answered right. Do this, and you shall live. But he, desiring to appear blameless, said to Yeshua, Who is my neighbor? Yeshua said, in return, A man of Yerushalem, travelling to Yericho, fell among robbers; who, having stripped and wounded him, went away, leaving him half dead. A priest by chance going that way, and seeing him, passed by on the far side. Likewise a Levite, on the road, when he came near the place, saw him, and passed by on the far side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion, and went up to him; and having poured wine and oil into his wounds, he bound them up. Then he set him on his own beast, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. On the next day, when he was going away, he took out two denarii (each a day’s wages), and giving them to the host, said, Take care of this man, and whatever more you spend when I return, I will repay you. Now which of these three, do you think, was neighbor to him who fell among the robbers? The lawyer answered, He who had compassion on him. Then said Yeshua, Go you and do in like manner.
38.–And, as he traveled, he went into a village, where a woman named Martha, received him at her house. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the feet of Yeshua, listening to his word: but Martha, who was distracted about serving preparations, came to him and said, Master, do you not care that my sister leaves me to serve alone? Tell her, therefore, to assist me. Yeshua answering, said to her, Martha, Martha, you are anxious, and trouble yourself about many things. One thing only is necessary. And Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken from her.
Chapter 11
SECTION VIII.
The Character of the Pharisees.
XI.–IT happened, that Yeshua was praying in a certain place; and when he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, Master, teach us to pray, as Yohanan also taught his disciples. He said to them, When you pray, say, Father, your name is holy; may your Reign come; give us each day our daily bread; and forgive us our sins, for even we forgive all, who offend us; and lead us not into temptation.
5.–Moreover, he said to them, Should one of you have a friend, and you go to him at midnight, and say, Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has come off the road to see me, and I have nothing to set before him; and he, from within, should answer, Do not disturb me; the door is now locked; I and my children are in bed; I cannot rise to give you. I tell you, though he will not rise and supply him, because he is his friend; yet he will, because of his shamelessness, get up, and give him as much as he wants. I likewise tell you, ask, and you shall obtain; seek, and you shall find; knock, and the door shall be opened to you: for, whoever asks, obtains; whoever seeks, finds; and to everyone who knocks, the door is opened. What father among you would give his son a stone, when he asks for bread; or, when he asks a fish, would, instead of a fish give him a serpent; or, when he asks an egg, would give him a scorpion? If you bad as you are, can give good things to your children; how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit, to those that ask him?
14.–Again, he was expelling a demon, which caused muteness; and when the demon was gone out, the person spoke, and the people marveled. Some, however, said, He expels demons by Beelzebub, the prince of the demons. Others, to test him, asked of him for a sign from heaven. But he, knowing their thoughts, said to him, Any kingdom divided can be laid waste; a house against a house falls. Now, if there is division in the kingdom of The Adversary; how can that kingdom continue? for you say, that I expel demons by Beelzebub. Moreover, if I by Beelzebub expel demons; by whom do your sons expel them? Therefore they shall be your judges. But if I, by the finger of God, expel demons, the Reign of God has come upon you. When the strong one armed, guards his palace; his property is secure. But if he, who is stronger, attacks and overcome him, he will strip him of his armor, on which he relied, and divide his spoils. He, who is not for me, is against me; and he, who gathers not with me, scatters.
24.–The unclean spirit, when he is gone out of a man, wanders over parched deserts, in search of a resting place. But not finding any, he says, I will return to my house, from where I came. Arriving, he finds it swept and in proper order. Then he goes, and brings seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and having entered, they dwell there; and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first.
27.–While he was saying these things, a woman raising her voice, cried to him from among the crowd, Blessed is the womb which bore you! and the breast which nursed you! He replied rather say blessed are those who hear the word of God, and obey.
29.–When the people crowded together, he said, This is an evil generation. They demand a sign; but no sign shall be given them, only the sign of Yonah. For as Yonah was a sign to the Ninevites; so shall the Son of Man be to this generation. The queen of the south country will arise in the judgment against the men of this generation, and cause them to be condemned; because she came from the extremities of the earth, to hear the wise messages of Solomon: and, behold, here is something greater than Solomon. The men of Ninevah will stand up in the judgment against this generation, and cause it to be condemned; because they reformed, when warned by Yonah: and behold, here is something greater than Yonah.
33.–A lamp is lit, not be concealed, or put under a vessel, but on a stand; that those, who enter, may have light. The lamp of the body is the eye: when, your eye is sound, the whole body is enlightened; but when your eye is bad, your body is in darkness. Take care, then, in fear the light which is in you be darkness. If your whole body is full of light, having no part dark; the whole will be so enlightened, as when a lamp brightly illuminates you by its flame.
37.–While he was speaking, a Pharisee asked him to dine with him. And he went, and placed himself at table. But the Pharisee were surprised to observe, that he did not wash before dinner. Then the Lord said to him, as for you Pharisees, you cleanse the outside of your cups and dishes; while you yourselves are inwardly full of robbery and wickedness. Mindless men! did not he, who made the outside, make the inside also? Only in what you have give as compassionateness (a donation to the poor) , and all things shall be clean to you.
42.–Woe, for you! Pharisees! because you pay the tithe (a tenth) of mint and rue, and of every kind of herb, and neglect justice and the love of God. These things you ought to have practiced, not omitting the others.
43.–Woe, for you! Pharisees! because you love the most conspicuous seats in synagogues, and greetings in public places.
44.–Woe, for you! because you are like concealed graves, over which people walk without knowing it.
45.–Here one of the lawyers replied, said, By speaking this, Teacher, you insult us also. He answered, Woe, for you! lawyers! also; because you laden men with intolerable burdens–burdens which you yourselves will not so much as touch with one of your fingers.
47.–Woe, for you! because you build the tomb monuments of the Forthtellers, whom your fathers killed. Certainly you are both witnesses and approve the deeds of your fathers; for they killed them, and you build their tomb monuments.
49.–Therefore, so says the wisdom of God, I will send them Forthtellers and Delegates: some of them they will kill, others they will banish; so that the blood of all the Forthtellers, which has been shed since the formation of the world, shall be required of this generation; from the blood of Abel, to the blood of Zachariah, who perished between the altar and the house of God. Yes, I assure you, all shall be required of this generation.
52.–Woe, for you! lawyers! because you have carried off the key of knowledge; you have not entered yourselves, and those, who were entering, you hindered.
53.–While he spoke these things, the scribes and the Pharisees began vehemently to press him, with questions, on many points; laying snares for him, in order to draw, from his own mouth, a matter of accusation, against him.
Chapter 12
XII.–Meantime, while the crowd in thousands flocked about him, so that they stepped one upon another, he said, addressing his disciples, Above all things, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is pretending like an actor. For there is nothing covered, that shall not be detected; nothing secret that shall not be made known. What you have spoken in the dark, shall be reported in the light; what you have whispered in the closet, shall be proclaimed from the housetop. But I charge you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that can do no more; but I will show you, whom you ought to far; fear him, who, after he has killed, has the power to cast into hell (Gk:gehenna, valley of (the son of) Hinnom; ge-henna (or Ge-Hinnom), a valley of Yerushalem used a awful garbage dump, used (figuratively) as a name for the place of everlasting punishment:). I repeat to you, Fear him. Are not five sparrows sold for two coins (Gk: assarion, 1/10 of a drachma which was a day’s wage)?–Yet not one of them is forgotten by God: yes, the very hairs of your head are all numbered: fear not for; you are much more valuable than sparrows. Moreover, I say to you, whoever shall acknowledge me before men, the Son of Man will acknowledge before the messengers of God; but whoever denies me before men, shall be disowned before the messengers of God. And whoever shall speak against the Son of Man, may obtain forgiveness; but for him who speaks evil about the Holy Spirit, there is no forgiveness. And when you are brought before synagogues, and governors, and rulers; do not be worried how or what you shall answer, or what you shall say: for the Holy Spirit will teach you, in that moment, what ought to be said.
13.–Then one said to him out of the crowd, Teacher, order my brother to divide the inheritance with me. He answered, Man, who appointed me your judge or arbitrator? And he said to them, Be on your guard against greed; for in whatever abundance a man has, his life depends not on his possessions.
16.–He used also this example, A certain rich man had lands which was very productive. And he reasoned so with himself, What shall I do? for I have nowhere to store my crop. Then he said this is what I will do; I will pull down my storehouses, and build larger ones, and there I will have storage for all my produce, and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have plenty of goods laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, enjoy yourself. But God said to him, Fool! this very night your soul is required of you. Whose then shall those things be, which you have provided? So is it with him, who stores up treasure for himself, but is not rich towards God.
22.–Then he said to his disciples. For this reason I charge you, be not anxious about your life, what you shall eat; or about your body, or what you shall wear. Life is a greater gift than food, and the body more than clothing. Consider the ravens: they neither sow or reap; neither do they have storehouses or barns; but God feeds them. How much more valuable are you than birds? Besides, which of you can, by his anxiety, prolong his life one hour? If, therefore, you cannot do even the very little things why are you anxious about the rest? Consider the lilies. How do they grow? They do not toil ; they do not spin; yet I affirm, that even Solomon, in all his glory, was not equally adorned such as one of these. If, then, God so arrays the vegetation, which today is in the field, and the next day is cast into the oven; how much more will he cloth you, O you distrustful? Do not ask, therefore, what you shall eat, or what you shall drink; and do not live in anxious suspense. For all these things the nations of the world seek; whereas, your Father knows that you need them. But seek you the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be super-added to you. Fear not, my little flock, for it has pleased your Father to give you the kingdom. Sell your goods, and give compassionateness (alms); provide yourselves purses which do not wear out; treasure inexhaustible in heaven, where no thieves approach, where nothing is spoiled by worms. For where your treasure is, your heart will likewise be.
35.—Be dressed in readiness, and keep your lamps burning; and be like those, who waiting for their master’s return from the wedding; that when he comes and knocks, they may immediately let him in. Blessed are those slaves, whom their master, at his return, shall find watching. I say to you, that he will gird himself (to fasten ones belt), and having placed them at table, will attend and serve them. And whether he comes in the second watch, or in the third, if he find things this way, Blessed are those slaves. You are certain, that if the master of the house knew, at what hour the thief would come, he would watch, and not allow him to break into his house. Be you, then, always prepared; because the Son of Man will come at an hour, when you are not expecting him.
41.–Then Peter said to him, Master, is this comparison directed to us alone, or to all? The Lord said, Who, now, is the discreet and faithful manager, whom the master will set over his household, to dispense regularly the allowance of grain? Blessed is that slave, if his master, at his arrival, shall find him so employed. I tell you truly, he will entrust him with the management of all his estate. But as to the slave who shall say within himself, My master delays his return, and shall beat the men and the women servants, and shall feast, and drink, and be drunken; the master of that slave will come, on a day, when he is not expecting him, and at an hour in which he is not looking, and not aware of him, and He will assign him his portion with the faithless. And that slave who knew his master’s will, yet did not make himself ready, or execute his orders, shall receive many lashes; and he who did not know it, but did things deserving blows, shall receive few: for much will be required of every one, to whom much is given; and the more a man is entrusted with, the more will be exacted from him.
49.–I came to throw fire upon the earth; and would I wish that it were already kindled? I have an immersion to undergo; and how pressed am I, until it be accomplished? Do you imagine, that I am came to give peace to the earth? I tell you, No: but division. For, From now on, five in one family will be divided; three against two, and two against three: father against son, and son against father; mother against daughter, and daughter against mother; mother-in-law against daughter-in-law, and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.
54.–He said also to the people, When you see a cloud rising in the west, you say, It will rain immediately, and so it happens; and when the south wind blows, you say, It will be hot, and it happens accordingly. Pretenders, can you judge of what appears in the sky, and on the earth; how is it, that you cannot judge the present time? and why do you not, even of yourselves, discern what is just?
58.–When you go with your adversary to the magistrate (Gk:archon a first (in rank or power):, make an effort on the road to be released from him, or he will drag you before the judge, and the judge consign you to the officer, and the officer commit you to prison: I assure you, you will not be released, until you have paid the last cent.( Gr:lepton; 1/128 of a denarius a day’s wage))
Chapter 13
SECTION IX.
The Nature of the Kingdom.
XIII.–THERE were then some present, who informed Yeshua of the Galileans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. Yeshua answering, said to them, Do you think that these Galileans were the greatest sinners in all Galilee, because they suffered such a fate? I tell you, No: but unless you reform you shall all likewise perish;–or those eighteen, upon whom the tower of Siloam fell, and slew them; do you think that they were the greatest culprits in Yerushalem? I tell you, No: but unless you reform, you shall all likewise perish.
6.–He also spoke this comparison: A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and came seeking fruit on it, but found none. Then he said to the vine-dresser, This the third year, that I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree, without finding any. Cut it down: why should it use up the ground? He answered, Sir, let it alone one year longer, until I dig around it, and manure it; perhaps it will bear fruit: if not, you may afterwards cut it down.
10.–On the Day of Rest, as he was teaching in a synagogue, a woman was present, who, for eighteen years, had a spirit that caused weakness, by which she was bowed down, that she could not so much as look up. Yeshua, perceiving her, called her to him, and laying his hands on her, said, Woman, you are delivered from your weakness. Immediately she stood upright, and glorified God. But the director of the synagogue, moved with indignation because Yeshua had performed a cure on the Day of Rest, said to the people, there are six days for working; come, on those days and be healed, and not on the Day of Rest day. To which the Lord replied, Stage actors! who is there among you, that does not, on the Day of Rest, release his ox or his donkey from the stall, and lead him away to water? And should not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom The Adversary has kept bound, lo! these eighteen years, be released from this bond on the Day of Rest day? On his saying this, all his opposers were ashamed; but the whole multitude was delighted, with all the glorious actions performed by him.
18.–He said, moreover, What does the kingdom of God resemble? To what shall I compare it? It resembles a gain of mustard seed, which a man threw into his garden; and it grew, and became a great tree, and the birds of the air took shelter under its branches.
20.–Again he said, To what shall I compare the kingdom of God? It resembles leaven, which a woman mingled in three measures of flour, until the whole was leavened.
22.–And he took a journey to Yerushalem; teaching as he passed through cities and villages: and one asked him, Master, are there but a few who shall be saved? He answered, Fight to enter through the narrow gate; for many, I assure you, will request to be admitted, who shall not be able. If once the master of the house shall have risen and locked the door, and you standing outside and knocking, say, Master, Master, open to us; he will answer, I know not who you are. Then you will say, We have eaten and drank with you, and you have taught in our streets. But he will answer, I tell you, I know not who you are: depart , all you workers of unrighteousness. Then there will be weeping, and gnashing of teeth, when you shall see Abraham, and Yitschaq , and Yaqob, and all the Forthtellers received into the kingdom of God, and yourselves excluded: No, people will come from the east, from the west, from the north, and from the south, and will place themselves at table in the kingdom of God. And, behold, they who are last, who shall be first; and they who are first, who shall be last.
31.–The same day, certain Pharisees came to him, and said, Get away; depart here, for Herod intends to kill you. He answered, Go tell that fox, Today and tomorrow I expel demons and perform cures, and the third day my goal will be completed. Nevertheless, I must walk about today and tomorrow, and the day following; for it cannot be, that a Forthteller should be cut off any where, but in Yerushalem. O Yerushalem! Yerushalem! that kills the Forthtellers, and stones those whom God sends to you! how often would I have gathered your children together, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings; but you would not have it! Quickly shall your house be deserted; for I say to you, you shall not again see me, until the time when you shall say, Blessed be He, who comes in the name of the Lord!
Chapter 14
XIV.–It happened on a Day of Rest, when he was gone to eat at the house of one of the rulers, who was a Pharisee, that, while the Pharisees were observing him, a man who had a edema stood before him. Then Yeshua addressing himself to the lawyers and Pharisees, said, Is it lawful to cure on the Day of Rest? They being silent, he took hold of the man, healed and dismissed him. Then resuming his message, he said to them, Who among you, if his donkey or his ox falls into a pit on the Day of Rest day, will not immediately pull him out. And to this they were not able to make a reply.
7.–Observing how eager the guests were to possess the higher places at the table, he gave them a comparison saying , When you are invited to a wedding, do not occupy the highest place at table, so if one more valued than you is called, and he who invited you both, comes and says to you, Give this place to this man; and you should then rise, with shame, to take the lowest place. But when you are invited, go to the lowest place, that when he who invited you comes, he may say to you, Friend, go up higher; for that will do you honor before the company. For whoever exalts himself, shall be humbled; and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.
12.–He said also to him who had invited him, When you give a dinner or a supper, do not invite your rich friends, brothers, cousins, or neighbors, so that they also invite you, in their turn, and you be repaid. But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the broken, the lame, the blind; and you shall be blessed: for they do not have the means to repay you, you shall be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.
15.–One of the guests, hearing this, said to him, blessed is he, who shall feast in the Reign of God. Yeshua said to him, A certain man made a great supper, and invited many. And at supper time he sent his slaves, to tell those who had been invited to come for all was ready now. But they all, without exception, made excuses. One said, I have purchased a field, which I must go and see; I request you have me excused. Another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, which I am going to test; I request you have me excused. A third said, I have married a wife, and, therefore, I cannot go. The slave returned, and related all to his master. Then the master of the house was enraged, and said to his slaves, Go immediately into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in here the poor, the broken, the lame, and the blind. Afterwards the slave said, Sir, your orders are executed, and still there is room. The master answered, Go out into the highways and along the fences, and compel people to come, that my house may be filled: for I declare to you, that none of those who were invited, shall taste my supper.
25.–As great multitudes travelled along with him, he turned to them, and said, If any man comes to me, and does not hate his father and mother, and wife and children, and brothers and sisters; No, and himself too, he cannot be my disciple. And whoever does not follow me, and carrying his cross, cannot be my disciple. For, which of you intending to build a tower, does not first, by himself, compute the expense, to know whether he have the means to complete it; in case having laid the foundation, and being unable to finish, he becomes the mockery of all who see it; who will say, This man began to build, but was not able to finish. Or what king going to engage another king, with whom he is at war, does not first consult, by himself, whether he can, with ten thousand men, encounter him who comes against him with twenty thousand; that if he cannot, he may, while the other is at a distance, send a delegation to ask for peace. So then, none of you can be my disciple who does not say goodbye to all his own possessions. Salt is good; but if the salt become tasteless, with what shall it be seasoned? It is fit neither for the land, or for the garbage pit, but is thrown away. Whoever has ears to hear, let him hear.
Chapter 15
SECTION X.
Comparisons.
XV.–NOW all the tax collectors and the sinners came to Yeshua, to hear him. But the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, This man admits sinners, and eats with them.
3.–Then he addressed this comparison to them: What man, among you, who has a hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the desert, to go after that one which is lost, until he finds it? And having found it, does he not joyfully lay it on his shoulders, and when he comes home, calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost? So, I assure you, there is greater joy in heaven, for one sinner who reforms, than for ninety-nine righteous persons, who need no repentance.
8.–Or what woman, who has ten drachmas (each a day’s wage), if she lose one, does not light a lamp, and sweep the house, and search carefully until she find it? And having found it, does she not assemble her female friends and neighbors, saying, Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin which I had lost? Such joy, I assure you, have the messengers of God when any sinner reforms.
11.–He said also, A certain man had two sons. And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me my portion of the estate. And he allotted to them his livelihood. Soon after, the younger son gathered everything together, and travelled into a distant country, and there wasted his estate in unrestrained living. When he had spent all, a great famine came upon that land, and he began to be in need. Then he joined himself in service to one of the inhabitants of the country, who sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he desired to satisfy his hunger with the husks, on which the swine were feeding; for no person gave him anything. At length, coming to himself, he said, How many hired servants has my father, who all have more bread in abundance, while I perish with hunger! I will arise, and go to my father, and will say to him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and you, and am no longer worthy to be called your son, make me one of your hired servants. And he arose, and went to his father. When he was yet far off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and threw himself upon his neck, and kissed him. And the son said, Father, I have sinned against heaven and you, and am no longer worthy to be called your son. But the father said to his slaves, Bring the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his finger, and shoes on his feet: bring also the fattened calf, and kill it, and let us eat and rejoice; for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. So they began to be merry.
25.–Now his elder son was in the field, walking home. And as he drew near the house, he heard music and dancing. He, therefore called one of his slaves, and asked the reason of this. He answered, your brother is returned, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him in good health. And he was angry, and would not go in; therefore his father came out, and asked him. He answering, said to his father, These many years have I served you, without disobeying your command in anything; yet you never gave me a kid goat, that I might entertain my friends; but no sooner did this your son return, who has squandered your living on prostitutes, than you killed for him the fattened calf. Son, replied the father, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours: it was but we had to rejoice and be merry; because this your brother was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.
Chapter 16
XVI.–He said likewise to his disciples, A certain rich man had a manager, who was accused to him of wasting his possessions.–Having, therefore, called him, he said, What is this that I hear of you? Render an account of your management, for you shall be manager no longer. And the manager said within himself, What shall I do? My master takes from me the management; I cannot dig, and am ashamed to beg. I am resolved what to do, when I am discarded, there may be some, who will receive me into their houses. Having, therefore called on all his master’s debtors, he asked one, How much do you owe my master? He answered, A hundred measures of oil. Take back your bill, said the manager, sit down directly, and write fifty. Then he asked another, How much do you owe? He answered, A hundred measurers of wheat. Take back your bill, said he, and write eighty. The master commended the prudence of the unjust manager; for the children of this world are more prudent, in conducting their affairs, than the children of light. Therefore, I say to you, with unjust wealth procure to yourself friends, who when it fails, may receive you into the eternal dwelling places.10.–Whoever is faithful in little, is faithful also in much: and whoever is unjust in little, is unjust also in much. If, therefore, you have not been honest in the deceitful riches, who will entrust you with the true? And if you have been unfaithful managers for another, who will give you anything to manage for yourselves? A slave cannot serve two masters: for either he will hate one, and love the other; or, at least, will attend one, and neglect the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.
14.–When the Pharisees, who loved money, heard all these things, they ridiculed him. But he said to them, As for you, you make yourselves justified before men but God knows your hearts; for that which is admired of men, is abhorred of God.
16.–You had the law and the forthtellers until the coming of Yohanan, since whose time, the kingdom of God is announced, and every occupant enters it by force. But sooner shall heaven and earth perish, than one tittle of the law shall fail.
18.–Whoever divorces his wife, and takes another, commits adultery; and whoever marries the divorced woman, commits adultery.
19.–There was a certain rich man, that wore purple and fine linen, and feasted splendidly every day. There was also a poor man, named Lazarus, covered with sores, that was thrown down at his gate, and who desired to feed on the crumbs, which fell from the rich man’s table: yes, even the dogs came, and licked his sores. It happened that the poor man died, and was conveyed, by messengers, to Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried. And in Hades (the realm of the dead), being in torment, he looked up, and saw Abraham far off, and Lazarus in his bosom, and cried, saying, Have pity on me, father Abraham, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tortured in this flame. Abraham answered, Son, remember that you, in your lifetime, you received good things, and Lazarus received bad things; but now he is in joy, and you are in torment. Besides, there lies a huge gulf between us and you, so that those who would pass here to you, cannot: neither can they pass to us, who would come there. The other replied, I ask you, then, father, to send him to my father’s house; for I have five brothers, that he may admonish them, in fear they also come into this place of torment. Abraham answered, They have Moses and the Forthtellers, let them hear them. No, said he, father Abraham, but if one went to them from the dead, they would reform. Abraham replied, if they do not hear Moses and the Forthtellers, neither will they be persuaded, though one should rise from the dead.
Chapter 17
SECTION XI.
Instructions and Warnings.
XVII.–THEN Yeshua said to his disciples, It is impossible to exclude snares entirely; but Woe for him who ensnares! It would be better for him to have an upper mill stone fastened to his neck, and to be thrown into the sea, than to ensnare one of these little ones.
3.–Take care to yourselves: if your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he reforms, forgive him; and if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day return, saying, I repent, you shall forgive him.
5.–Then the Delegates said to the Lord, Increase our faith. He answered, If you had faith, though it were but as a grain of mustard seed, you might say to this sycamore fig tree, Be uprooted and planted in the sea, and it would obey you.
7.–Would any of you, who has a slave ploughing or tending a flock, say to him, on his return from the field, Come, immediately, and place yourself at the table; and not rather say to him, Make ready my supper; cloth yourself, and serve me, until I have eaten and drunk; afterwards you may eat and drink? He does not thank that slave for obeying his orders? I suppose not. In like manner you say when you have done all that is commanded you say, We your slaves, are unworthy; we have done only our duty.
11.–Now, in travelling to Yerushalem, he passed between Samaria and Galilee; and being about to enter a certain village, he met ten lepers, who stood at a distance, and cried out, Yeshua, Master, take pity on us. When he saw them, he said to them, Go, show yourselves to the priests. And as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them perceiving that he was healed, turned back, glorifying God aloud. Then throwing himself prostrate at the feet of Yeshua, he gave him thanks. Now this man was a Samaritan. Yeshua said, Were not ten cleansed? Where, then, are the other nine? Have none returned glory to God, except this alien? And he said to him, Arise, go your way; your faith has cured you.
20.–Being questioned by the Pharisees, when the Reign of God should begin, he answered, The Reign of God is not coming with observed evidence; nor shall people say, Lo, here! or Lo, there! for behold the Reign of God is within you.
22.–Then he said to his disciples, The time will come, when you shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and shall not see it. But when they say to you, Lo, here! or Lo, there! Do not go out to follow them. For as the lightning flashes in an instant from one extremity of the sky to the other, so will the appearance of the Son of Man be in his day. But first he must suffer much, and be rejected by this generation. And, as it happened in Noah’s days, it will also happen in the days of the Son of Man. They ate, they drank, they married, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, when the deluge came, and destroyed them all. In like manner, as it was in the days of Lot, they ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built; but on the day that Lot left Sodom, it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, which destroyed them all; so will it also be on the day, when the Son of Man shall appear. On that day, let not him who shall be on the housetop, having his goods in the house, come down to take it away. Let not him who shall be in the field, return home. Remember Lot’s wife. Whoever shall seek to save his life, shall lose it; and whoever shall lose his life, shall preserve it. I tell you, there will be two men, that night, in one bed; one will be seized, and the other will be left. Two women will be grinding together; one will be seized, and the other will be left. Then they asked him, Where, Master? He answered, Where the body is, the eagles will be assembled.
Chapter 18
XVIII.–He also showed them, by a comparison, that they ought to persist in prayer, without growing weary. He said n a certain city, there was a judge, who neither feared God, nor respected man. And there was a widow in that city, who came to him, saying, Do justice for me on my adversary. For some time he refused: but afterwards he argued with himself, although I neither fear God, nor respect man; yet, because this widow bothers me, I will vindicate her cause; or else she will come continually, and annoy me (hit under the eye). Hear, said the Lord, what the unjust judge determined. And will not God avenge his chosen, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay in their cause? I assure you, he will suddenly give justice for them. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find the faith upon the earth?
9.–Then addressing some who trusted in themselves, as being righteous, and despised others, he proposed this example:–Two men went up to the temple to pray; one a Pharisee, the other a tax collector. The Pharisee standing by himself, prayed this way:–O God, I thank you that I am not as other men, greedy, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a-week. I give tithes (one tenth) of all I possess. But the tax collector standing at a distance, and not daring so much as to lift up his eyes to heaven, struck upon his breast, and cried, God, be merciful to me a sinner. I assure you, that this man returned home more approved than the other: for whoever exalts himself, shall be humbled; but whoever humbles himself, shall be exalted.
15.–Then they presented babes to him, that he might touch them: the disciples observing it, forbid them. But Yeshua calling them to him, said, Permit the children to come to me, and do not forbid them; for such as these is the kingdom of God. I say to you, whoever will not receive the kingdom of God as a child, shall never enter it.
18.–Then a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Teacher, what good shall I do to obtain eternal life? Yeshua answered, Why do you call me good? God alone is good. You know the commandments: Do not commit adultery; do not commit murder; do not steal; do not give a false testimony; honor your father and your mother. He replied, All these I have observed from my childhood. Hearing this, Yeshua said to him, Yet in one thing you are deficient: sell all that you have, and distribute to the poor, and you shall have treasure in heaven: then come and follow me. When he heard this, he was exceedingly sorrowful; for he was very rich.
24.–Yeshua perceiving that he was very sorrowful, said, How difficult will it be for men of riches to enter the kingdom of God. It is easier for a camel to pass through a needle’s eye, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. The hearers said, Who then can be saved? Yeshua answered, Things impossible to men, are possible to God.
28.–Then Peter said, Lo! we have forsaken all, and followed you. Yeshua answered, I say to you, that there is none who shall have forsaken his house, or parents, or brothers, or wife, or children, on account of the kingdom of God; who shall not receive manifold more, in return, in this world, and in the future, eternal life.
31.–Then Yeshua taking the twelve aside, said to them, We are now going to Yerushalem, where all, that the Forthtellers have written, shall be accomplished on the Son of Man. For he shall be delivered to the Gentiles, and ridiculed, and insulted, and spit on. And after scourging, they will kill him; and he shall rise again the third day. But they understood none of these things: this message was concealed to them; they did not comprehend its meaning.
35.–When he came near Yericho, a blind man, who sat by the way side begging, hearing the crowd pass by, inquired what it meant. And being told that Yeshua the Nazarene was passing by, he immediately cried, saying, Yeshua, Son of David, have pity on me. They, who went before, charged him to be silent; but he cried still the louder, Son of David, have pity on me. Yeshua stopped, and commanded them to bring the man to him. And when he was near, he asked him, saying, What do you wish me to do for you? He answered, Master, to give me my sight. And Yeshua said to him, Receive your sight; your faith has cured you. Instantly he received his sight, and followed him, glorifying God; and all the people saw it, and praised God.
Chapter 19
XIX.–When Yeshua had entered, and was passing through Yericho, behold a man named Zaccheus, a rich man, and chief of the tax collectors, endeavored to see what sort of person he was, but could not because of the crowd, and being of low stature. Therefore, running ahead, he climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him; having observed that he was going that way. When Yeshua came to the place, he looked up, and seeing him, said, Zaccheus, hurry and come down, for today I must stay at your house. And he hurried, and came down, and received him joyfully. When the multitude perceived this, they said, murmuring, He has gone to be a guest with a sinner. But Zaccheus presenting himself before Yeshua, said, Master, half of my goods I will give to the poor; and if in any thing I have wronged any man, I will restore fourfold. And Yeshua said, concerning him; Today salvation has come to this house; seeing that he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and recover, that which was lost.
11.–As the people were hearing , he added this comparison, because he was near to Yerushalem, and they thought the Reign of God would immediately commence. A certain nobleman went abroad to procure for himself a realm, and then return; and having called ten of his slaves, and delivered to them ten minas,(100 days wages each) he said, Improve these until I return. Now his citizens hated him; and sending an delegation after him, protested, We will not have this man for our king. When he returned, vested with royal power, he commanded those slaves to be called to whom he had committed the money, that he might know, what everyone had gained. Then the first came, and said, My Lord, your mina has gained ten minas. He answered, Well done, good slave; because you have been faithful in a very small matter, receive the authority over ten cities. And the second who came, said, My Lord, your mina has gained five minas. He answered, Be you also have authority over five cities. Another came, saying, My Lord, here is your mina, which I have kept laid up in a towel; for I was afraid of you, because you are a hard master; you exact what you did not give, and reap what you did not sow. He answered, Out of your own mouth, you evil slave, I will condemn you. You knew that I am a hard master, exacting what I did not give, and reaping what I did not sow? Why then did you not put my money into the bank (GK:trapezitees, a money-changer, broker, banker, one who exchanges money for a fee, and pays interest on deposits); that, at my return, I might have received it with interest? Then he said to his attendants, Take the mina from him, and give it to him, who has ten minas. He replied, I tell you, that, to everyone who has, more shall be given; but from him who has not, even that which he has shall be taken. But as for those my enemies, who would not have me for their king, bring them here, and slay them in my presence.
SECTION XII.
The Entry into Yerushalem.
28.–AFTER this message, Yeshua walked, travelling towards Yerushalem. When he approached Bethphage and Bethany, near the mountain called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, saying, Go to the village ahead of you, where as you enter you will find a colt tied, on which no man ever rode; release him, and bring him. If anyone asks why you release him, you shall answer, Because the Master needs him. Accordingly they, who received this order, went and found everything as he had told them. As they were releasing the colt, the owners said to them, Why are you freeing the colt? They answered, The Master needs him. So they brought him to Yeshua, and having thrown their cloaks upon the colt, set Yeshua on it. As he went, the people spread their cloaks in the road before him. When he was near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God in loud acclamations, for all the miracles which they had seen; saying, Blessed be the King who comes in the name of the Lord! In heaven peace and glory in the highest ! Upon this, some Pharisees in the crowd said to him, Teacher, rebuke your disciples. He answered, I tell you that, if these were silent, the stones would cry out.
41.–When he came near and beheld the city, he wept over it, saying, O that you had known, at least in this your day, the things which concern your peace! But now they are hidden from yours eyes: for the days are coming upon you, when yours enemies will surround you with a rampart, and enclose you, and shut you up on every side; and will level you with the ground, you and your children, and will not leave you one stone upon another, because you did not know the time when you were visited.
45.–Afterwards he went into the temple, and drove out those who sold, and those who bought in it, saying to them, It is written, “My house is a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of robbers.”
47.–And he taught daily in the temple, while the chief priests and the scribes, and persons of principal note, sought his destruction; but could not devise how to do it: for all the people heard him with the greatest attention.
Chapter 20
XX.–One of those days, as he was teaching the people in the temple, and preaching the good news, the chief priests and the scribes, with the elders, confronted him, saying, Tell us by what authority you do these things; or, who is he that empowered you? He answering, said to them, I also have a question to put to you. Tell me then, Was the commission which Yohanan had to immerse, from heaven or from men? But they reasoned among themselves, If we say, From heaven, he will reply, Why then did you not believe him? And if we say, From men, all the people will stone us; for they are persuaded that Yohanan was a Forthteller. They therefore answered, that they could not tell where. Yeshua replied, Neither do I tell you, by what authority I do these things.
9.–Then he spoke to the people this comparison: A man planted a vineyard, and farmed it out, and having travelled, continued abroad a long time. At the proper tine, he sent a slave to the vine-growers, to receive of the fruit of the vineyard; but they beat him, and sent him back empty. Afterwards he sent another slave, whom they, having beaten, and treated shamefully, and also sent away empty. He, afterwards, dispatched a third to them. Him likewise they wounded and drove away. Then the owner of the vineyard said. What shall I do? I will send my beloved son; they will certainly respect him, when they see him. But when the vine-growers saw him, they reasoned among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be our own. And having thrust him out of the vineyard, they killed him. What, therefore, will the owner of the vineyard do to them? He will come and destroy those vine-growers, and give the vineyard to others. And some of the hearers said, may it never be.
17.–Yeshua, looking on them, said. What then is the meaning of that expression of scripture, “A stone which the builders rejected, is made the head of the corner. Whoever shall fall upon that stone, shall be bruised; but on whomever it shall fall, it will crush him to pieces.” At that time, the chief priests and the scribes, knowing that he had spoken this comparison against them, would have laid hands on him, but they feared the people.
20.–And they watched him, and sent spies on him, instructing them to impersonate righteous men, and catch him in his words, that they might deliver him to the power and authority of the governor. These asked him this question, Teacher,, we know that you speak and teach uprightly, and that, without respect of persons, you faithfully teach the way of God. Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not? He perceiving their trickery, answered, Show me a denarius.(worth one days wage) Whose image and inscription has it? They answered, Caesar’s. (Kaisar; of Latin origin; Caesar, a title of the Roman emperor) He replied, Give therefore, to Caesar, that which is Caesar’s, and to God, that which is God’s. So they could not catch him in his messages before the people; Therefore, admiring his answer, they kept silent.
27.–Afterwards, some of the Sadducees, who deny a resurrection, came to him with this question: Teacher, Moses has told in his writings, that a man whose brother dies childless and outlived by his wife, shall marry the widow, and bring forth seed for his brother. Now there were seven brothers, the first of whom having taken a wife, died childless; the second married the widow, also died childless; the third married her, and did likewise as the rest; and all the seven died leaving no children. Last of all the woman also died. To which of them, therefore, will she be a wife at the resurrection; for she has been married to all the seven? Yeshua answering, said to them, The children of this age marry, and are given in marriage; but, among them who shall be honored to share in the resurrection, and the other world, there will be neither marrying nor are given in marriage; for they cannot die anymore; because, like the messengers, they are children of God, being children of the resurrection. But that the dead are raised, even Moses has suggested, calling the Lord who appeared in the bush, the God of Abraham, and the God of Yitschaq , and the God of Yaqob. Now he is not a God of the dead, but of the living; for they are all alive to him. Then some of the scribes said to him, Teacher, you have spoken well. After that, they did not dare to ask him any more questions.
41.–And he said to them, Why is it said that the Anointed must be a son of David? Yet David himself says in the book of the Psalms, “Yahweh (Gk:The Lord) said to my Lord, Sit at my right hand, until I make your foes they footstool.” As David so calls him his Lord, how can he be David’s Son?
45.–Then, in the hearing of all the people, he said to his disciples, Beware of the scribes, who love (phileo) to walk in robes, and love (phileo) greetings in public places, and the chief seats in the synagogues, and the uppermost places at feasts; who devour the homes of widows, and make long prayers for a show. These shall suffer the severest punishment.
Chapter 21
XXI.–As Yeshua was observing the rich throwing their gifts into the treasury, he saw a grieving widow throw in two lepta.(1/64 of a day’s wage) And he said, I tell you truly, that this poor widow has cast in more than any of them; for all of these, out of their superabundance , have thrown into the offering: whereas, she has thrown in, all the little that she had.
SECTION XIII.
The Last Things.
5.–SOME remarked, that the temple was adorned with beautiful stones and gifts, he said, The time will come, when these things which you see, shall be so demolished, that one stone will not be left upon another. Then they asked him, saying, Teacher, when will these things be: and what will be the sign when they are about to be accomplished? He answered, Take care that you are not seduced: for many will assume my name, saying, I am the person, and as the time approaches; therefore, do not follow them. But when you shall hear of wars and instability, do not be terrified: for these things must first happen; but the end will not immediately follow.
10.–He added, Then nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there shall be great earthquakes in various places, and famines, and pestilences; there shall be also frightful appearances and great miracles in the sky. But, before all this, you shall be apprehended and prosecuted, and delivered to synagogues, and imprisoned, and dragged before kings and governors, because of my name: and for your testimony. Be, therefore, resolved not to prepare what defense you shall make; for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries shall be able to refute or resist. And you shall be given up even by parents, and brothers, and kinsmen, and friends; and some of you will be put to death. And, on my account, you shall be universally hated. Yet not a hair of your head shall be lost. Save your souls by your patient enduring.
20.–Now, when you shall see Yerushalem surrounded with armies, know that its desolation is near. Then let those in Yehuda flee to the mountains; let those in the city make their escape, and do not let those in the country enter the city: for these will be days of vengeance, in which all the scriptures shall be accomplished. But Woe, for the women with child, and for those who nurse in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon the people. They shall fall by the sword; they shall be carried captive into all nations; and Yerushalem shall be trampled by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles is over. And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth nations will be distressed and perplexed; with roaring’s in the seas and floods; men expiring with the fear, and apprehension of those things, which are coming on the world: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. Then they shall see the Son of Man coming in a cloud, with great glory and power. Now when these things begin to be fulfilled, look up, and lift up your heads; because your deliverance approaches.
29.–He spoke to them this comparison: Consider the fig tree, and the other trees. When you observe them shooting forth, you know, yourselves, that the summer is near. In like manner, when you shall see these events, know that the Reign of God is near. I say to you, that this generation shall not pass away, until all be accomplished. Heaven and earth shall pass away; but my words shall not pass away. Pay attention, to yourselves, in case your hearts are weighed down with hang overs, and drunkenness, and worldly cares, and that day comes upon you unaware: for as a net, it shall enclose all the inhabitants of the earth. Be vigilant, therefore, praying, on every occasion, that you may be counted worthy to escape all these approaching evils, and to stand before the Son of Man.
37.–Then Yeshua taught in the temple by day, and went at night to the mountain, called the Mount of Olives. And every morning the people returned early to the temple to hear him.
Chapter 22
XXII.–Now the feast of unleavened bread, called the Passover, being near, the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might kill him; for they feared the people. Then The Adversary entered into Yehuwdah, surnamed Iscariot, who was of the number of the twelve. And he went and discussed with the chief priests and officers, how he might deliver Yeshua into their hands. And they were glad, and agreed to give him a certain sum; so Yehuwdah having accepted, watched an opportunity to deliver him up away from the crowds.
7.–Now, the day of unleavened bread came, on which the Passover was sacrificed, Yeshua sent Peter (Gk:Petros a piece of rock) and Yohanan, saying, Go and prepare for us the Passover, that we may eat it. They asked him, Where shall we prepare it? He answered, When you enter the city, you will meet a man carrying a pitcher of water; follow him into the house, which he shall enter, and say to the master of the house, The Teacher asks you, Where is the guest-chamber, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples? And he will show you a large upper room, furnished; make ready there. So they went, and, having found everything as he had told them, prepared the Passover.
14.–When the hour had come, he placed himself at table, with the twelve delegates, and said to them, I have longed to eat this Passover with you, before I suffer: for I declare to you, that I will never partake of another, until it is accomplished in the kingdom of God. Then, taking a cup, he gave thanks, and said, Take this, and share it among you; for I assure you, that I will not again drink of the fruit of the vine, until the Reign of God comes. Then he took bread, and having given thanks, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in commemoration of me. He likewise gave the cup, after supper, saying, This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.
21.–Behold, however, that the hand of him who betrays me, is on the table with mine. The Son of Man is going away, as has been determined: nevertheless, Woe, for that man by whom he is betrayed! Then they began to inquire among themselves, which of them it could be, that would do this.
24.–There arose also a quarrel among them, as to which of them should be accounted the greatest. And he said to them, The kings of the nations exercise lordship over them; and they who control are called benefactors. But, with you, it must be otherwise: no, let the greatest among you be as a younger one; and him who governs, as he who serves. For, which is greater, he who is at table, or he who serves? Is it not he that is at table? Yet I am among you as he who serves. You are those who have continued with me in my trials. And I grant to you (as my Father has granted me a kingdom) to eat, and to drink at my table, in my kingdom, and to sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Ysrael.
31.–The Lord said also, Simon, Simon, The Adversary has obtained permission to sift you as wheat; but I have prayed for you, that your faith will not fail, therefore, when you have recovered yourself, strengthen your brethren. He answered, Master, I am ready to accompany you, both to prison and to death. Yeshua replied, I tell you, Peter, the cock shall not crow today, before you have three times denied, that you know me.
35.–Then he said to them, When I sent you without purse, and bag, and shoes, did you lack anything? But now, said he, let him that has a purse, take it, and likewise his bag; and let him who has no sword, sell his cloak, and buy one; for I tell you this scripture, “He was ranked among the lawless (or transgressors),” is now to be accomplished in me: for the things relating to me must be fulfilled. They said, Master, here are two swords. He replied, It is enough. Then he went out, as he was accustomed, to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him.
40.—When he arrived at the place, he said to them, Pray that you may not enter into temptation. Then, being withdrawn from them about a stone’s throw, he knelt down and prayed, saying, Father, if you will, take this cup away from me; nevertheless, not my will, but yours be done. And there appeared to him a messenger from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony of grief, he prayed more fervently, and his sweat fell like large drops blood to the ground. Having arisen from prayer, and returned to the disciples, he found them sleeping from sorrow; and said to them, Why do you sleep? Arise and pray, that you may not enter into temptation.
47.–Before he was done speaking, he saw a multitude; and he who was called Yehuwdah, one of the twelve, walked before them, and came up to Yeshua, to kiss him. Yeshua said to him, Yehuwdah, do you betray the Son of Man with a kiss? Now, those who were with him, seeing what would happen, said to him, Master, shall we strike with the sword? And one of them struck the slave of the high priest, and cut off his right ear. Yeshua said, Let this suffice; and, touching his ear, he healed him. Then Yeshua said to the chief priests, and the officers of the temple-guard, and the elders, who came to apprehend him, Do you come with swords and clubs, as in pursuit of a robber? While I was daily with you in the temple, you did not attempt to arrest me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.
SECTION XIV.
The Crucifixion.
54.–THEN they seized him, and led him away to the high priest’s house. And Peter (Gk:Petros a piece of rock) followed, at a distance. When they had kindled a fire in the middle of the court, and were sitting round it, Peter sat down among them. And a girl servant, having observed him sitting by the fire, looked at him intently , said, This man also was with him. But he denied him, saying, Woman, I do not know him. A little while after, another seeing him, said, “You also, are one of them. Peter answered, Man, I am not. About an hour after, another insisted the same thing, saying, It is true this man was certainly with him, for he is a Galilean. Peter answered, Man, I know nothing of this matter. And just as he spoke the word, a cock crowed. Then the Lord, turning, looked upon Peter, and Peter called to mind the word which the Lord had said to him, Before the cock crows, you will disown me three times. And he went out and wept bitterly.
63.–Those who held Yeshua, mocked and beat him; and, having blindfolded him, struck him on the face, and asked him, saying, forthtell who is it that struck you. And many other evil words they spoke against him.
66.–As soon as it was day, the Sanhedrin (Gk:sunedrion, any assembly or the great council at Yerusalem), with the chief priests and scribes, were assembled, and had him brought into their council-chamber, said to him, If you are the Anointed, tell us. He answered, If I tell you, you will not believe: and if I ask a question, you will neither answer me. Hereafter the Son of Man shall be seated at the right hand of the power of God. They all replied, You are, then, the Son of God? He answered, you say that I am. Then they cried, What further need have we of evidence? We have heard enough ourselves, from his own mouth.
Chapter 23
XXIII.–And the assembly broke up, and conducted Yeshua to Pilate: and they accused him, saying, We found this man corrupting the nation, and forbidding the giving of tribute to Caesar (Kaisar; of Latin origin; Caesar, a title of the Roman emperor), calling himself The Anointed the King. Then Pilate, asking him, said, You are the King of the Jews? He answered, So you say. Pilate said to the chief priests and the multitude, I find nothing criminal in this man. But they became more vehement, adding, He raised revolt among the people, by the teaching which he spread through all Yehuda, from Galilee, where he began, to this place. When Pilate heard them mention Galilee, he asked, whether the man was a Galilean. And finding that he belonged to Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who was also then at Yerushalem.
8.–And Herod was very glad to see Yeshua: for he had long desired; having heard much about him, and hoping to see him perform some miracle. He, therefore, asked him many questions, but Yeshua returned him no answer. Yet the chief priests and the scribes, who were present, accused him with eagerness. But Herod and his military troop despised him: and in mocking clothed him in a splendid robe, sent him back to Pilate. On that day Pilate and Herod became friends; for before, they had been hostile.
13.–Pilate, having assembled the chief priests, the governors, and the people, said to them, You have brought this man before me, as one who excites the people to revolt; yet, having examined him in your presence, I have not found him guilty of any of those crimes, of which you accuse him. Neither has Herod; for I referred you to him. Be assured, then, that he has done nothing to deserve death. I will therefore discipline him, and release him. Then all cried out together, Away with this man, and release to us Barabbas. Now Barabbas had been imprisoned for raising revolt in the city, and for murder. Pilate, called to them again willing to release Yeshua. But they cried, saying, Crucify! crucify him! A third time he repeated, Why? What evil has this man done? I do not find him guilty of any crime worthy of death; I will therefore discipline him, and release him. But they persisted, demanding, with much outcry, that he be crucified. At last their out cries, and those of the chief priests, prevailed: and Pilate pronounced sentence, that it should be as they desired. Accordingly, he released a man, who had been imprisoned for revolt and murder, and gave up Yeshua to their will.
26.–As they led him away, they laid hold of Simon, a Cyrenian, coming from the country, and laid the cross on him, that he might bear it after Yeshua. And a great multitude followed him, among who were many women, who beat the breast and bewailed him. But Yeshua turning to them, said, Daughters of Yerushalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children: for the days are coming, in which they shall say, Blessed are the barren, the wombs which never bear, and the breasts which never nursed! Then they shall cry to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us: for if it is so with the green tree, how shall it be with the dry? And two criminals were also led with him to take away. (or kill).
33.–When they came to the place called Golgotha, they nailed him to a cross, and the criminals also; one at his right hand, the other at his left. And Yeshua said, Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do. And they distributed his garments by lot. While the people stood gazing, even their rulers joined them in sneering, and saying, This man saved others: let him save himself, if he is the Anointed, the elect of God. The soldiers also mocked him, coming and offering him vinegar, and saying, If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself. There was also an inscription over his head in Greek, Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. (Ioudaios)
39.–Now, one of the criminals who hung with him, spoke evil to him, saying, If you are the Anointed, save yourself and us. The other, rebuking him, answered, Have you no fear of God, you who are undergoing the same punishment? And we justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man has done nothing out of place. And he said to Yeshua, Remember me when you come into your kingdom. Yeshua answered, I say to you, Today you shall be with me in paradise.(a park of happiness)
44.–And, about the sixth hour, there was darkness over all the land, which lasted until the ninth. The sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was split in the middle. And Yeshua said with a loud voice, Father, into your hands I commit my spirit; and having said this, he expired. Then, the centurion, observing what had happened, gave glory to God; saying, Assuredly, this was a righteous man. Now, all the people who were present at this spectacle saw what passed and returned, beating their breasts. And all his well known acquaintances, and the women who had followed him from Galilee, standing at a distance, saw these things.
SECTION XV.
The Resurrection.
50.–NOW, from Arimathea, a city of Yehuda, there was a member of the Sanhedrin, named Yowceph, a good and just man, who had not agreed to the purpose and practice of the rest; and who, himself, also expected the Reign of God. This man went to Pilate, and asked the body of Yeshua. And having taken it down, he wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a tomb cut in stone, in which no man had ever been deposited. Now that day was the preparation, and the Day of Rest approached. And the women, who had accompanied Yeshua from Galilee, followed Yowceph, and observed the tomb, and how the body was laid. Then they returned, and prepared aromatic spices and myrrh, and then observed the Day of Rest, according to the commandment.
Chapter 24
XXIV.—Now on the first day of the week, they went at day-break, with some others, to the tomb, carrying the spices which they had prepared, and found the stone rolled away from the tomb; and having entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Yeshua. While they were perplexed on this account, behold, two men stood by them, in robes of a dazzling brightness. The women were terrified, and bowing down their faces to the ground. They (the two men) said to them, Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen; remember how he spoke to you, before he left Galilee, saying, The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinners, and be crucified, and the third day rise again. Then they remembered his words.
9.–On their return from the tomb, they reported the whole matter to the eleven, and to all the other disciples. It was Mary Magdalene, and Yowchanan, and Mary the mother of Yaakob, and other women with them, who told these things to the Delegates: but their account appeared to them as idle tales; and they did not believe them. Peter, however, arose and ran to the tomb; and stooping down, saw nothing there but the linen bandages by themselves. And he went away, marveling on what had happened.
13.–The same day, as two of the disciples were travelling to a village named Emmaus, 7 miles from Yerushalem, they talked together about all these events. While they were conversing and reasoning, Yeshua himself joined them, and went along with them. But their eyes were so affected, that they did not know him. And he said to them, What subjects are these, about which you confer together? and why are you dejected? And one of them, named Cleopas, answered, are you only a stranger in Yerushalem, and do not know the things which have happened there lately? What things? said he. They answered, the things of Yeshua the Nazarene, who was a Forthteller, powerful in word and deed, before God and all the people; how our chief priests and governors have delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. As for us, we trusted that it had been he, who should have redeemed Ysrael. Beside all this, today being the third day since these things happened, some women among us have astonished us; for having gone early to the tomb, and did not find his body, they came and told us, that they had seen a vision of messengers, who said that he is alive. And some of our men went to the tomb, and found matters exactly as the women had related; but they did not see him.
25.–Then he said to them, O thoughtless men, and backward to believe things which have been all predicted by the Forthtellers! Ought not the Anointed so suffer, and enter into his glory? Then beginning with Moses, and proceeding through all the Forthtellers, he explained to them all the passages relating to himself. When they came near the village, Where they were travelling, he seemed as intending to go farther; but they compelled him, saying, Remain with us, for it grows late, and the day is almost gone. And he went to stay with them. While they were at table together, he took the bread, and blessed and broke it, and distributed it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he disappeared. And they said one to another, Did not our hearts burn within us, while he talked with us on the road, and opened to us the scriptures?
33.–Immediately they arose, and returned to Yerushalem, where they found the eleven, and the rest of their company assembled, who said, The master is truly risen, and has appeared to Simon. These also recounted what had happened on the road, and how he was made known to them in breaking the bread.
36.–While they talking in this manner, he stood in the middle of them, and said, Peace be to you. But they were amazed and frightened, imagining that they saw a spirit. And he said to them, Why are you agitated? And why does questioning arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet; it is I myself; handle me and be convinced; for a spirit has no flesh and bones as you see I have. Saying this, he showed them his hands and his feet. Yet they could hardly believe due to joy and amazement. He said to them, Have you anything to eat? And they gave him a piece of broiled fish, which he took and ate in their presence. And he said to them, This is what I told you while I remained with you, that all the things which are written concerning me, in the law of Moses, and in the Forthtellers, and in the Psalms, must be accomplished. Then he opened their minds, that they might understand the scriptures; and said to them, So it is written, and so it was required that the Anointed suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; and that repentance, and the remission of sins, should be proclaimed, in his name, among all nations, beginning at Yerushalem. Now you are witnesses of these things; and behold I will send you that which my Father has promised; but you are to wait in this city, until you have been invested with power from above.
50.–He then led them out as far as Bethany, and lifted up his hands, and blessed them. And while he was blessing them, he was departed from them, and carried up into heaven. And having worshiped him, they returned to Yerushalem with great joy; and were constantly in the temple, praising and blessing God.