The Comic Book Bible - New Testament #2

THE COMIC BOOK BIBLE JESUS’ LATER MINISTRY Published by Scandinavia Publishing House 2015 Scandinavia Publishing House, Drejervej 15,3, DK-2400 Copenhagen, NV, Denmark info@scanpublishing.dk www.scanpublishing.dk Concept by Jose Perez Montero Text copyright © Ben Alex Illustrations copyright © Jose Perez Montero Design by Ben Alex Printed in China Hardcover ISBN 978 87 7132 517 1 Softcover ISBN 978 87 7132 518 8 All rights reserved

THE COMIC BOOK

BIBLE JESUS’ LATER MINISTRY

CONCEPT AND ILLUSTRATIONS BY JOSE PEREZ MONTERO TEXT BY BEN ALEX

scandinavia

Great! it’s time for a break. let’s sail to the other shore and rest.

Jesus is leaving!

There he is!

In the meantime the disciples had been preaching the good news about God’s kingdom all over Galilee. Now they returned and reported on all the great things that had happened, how the sick were healed and the demon-possessed were delivered...

Good for you. What about me?

Let’s hurry to the other side!

Look!

The crowd is following us on the shore.

They are like sheep without a shepherd.

when they arrived on the other side, Jesus taught the people many things about the kingdom of God, and they were amazed. Now it was already late in the afternoon, and they had not eaten all day. The disciples started to get worried.

Lord, people are getting hungry. There is no food to buy in this remote place. What do we do now?

You give them something to eat!

How much food do you have?

Are you serious?

How do we get food for so many people.

SUPPER FOR FIVE THOUSAND PEOPLE

Mark 6:30 – 44

Here’s a boy with five loaves of bread and two fish.

4

That’s a start. God will provide what’s needed.

Jesus blessed the food...

...and began to hand it out to the disciples who passed it on to the people.

The more they gave out...

...The more the baskets were filled.

When they had all eaten and were full, Jesus told the disciples to gather what was left.

5

This is a miracle!

Lord, there’s twelve full baskets of leftovers!

Jesus is a true prophet!

Please stay with us!

Be our king!

Get in the boat and go to the other side. I’ll follow later.

Jesus had great compassion on them, But he didn’t want to be their king on earth. he was eager to spread the message throughout Israel and beyond.

We’d better go home.

Leave me alone now.

I need rest.

After sending them off, Jesus went up on a mountain to pray.

Later that night, the wind was rising, and Jesus could see how the disciples were struggling at the oars. By now it was four o’clock in the morning...

We’re sinking!

We’re going nowhere!

I wish Jesus were here.

6

Take courage; it’s me. Don’t be afraid!

Look!

What’s that?

Master, if it’s really you, tell me to come out to you.

A ghost!

No, it’s Jesus!

Come!

Lord, save me!

What got into you? Why didn’t you trust me, Peter?

I trust you, Jesus!

As soon as Jesus and Peter got into the boat, the wind died down, and the sea grew calm.

You are certainly the son of God!

7

JESUS WALKS ON THE SEA

Matthew 14:22 – 33

Hey, Jesus is coming!

early in the morning, they landed at Gennesaret on the shore of Galilee.

Let’s spread the news.

Shortly after, people came out to meet him, and they brought all their sick with them.

I’m healed!

Jesus entered the synagogue in capernaum...

Bread from heaven?

Has he gone mad?

Isn’t he the son of Joseph? He’s not from heaven at all.

He must be on the other shore. Come!

These people are not really looking for me.

They want bread and miracles.

Please, let me only touch the edge of your cloak.

Do not seek the food that spoils.

Seek the food that endures and gives eternal life.

On the other side, the people were looking for Jesus but couldn’t find him.

How do we do that?

Those who come to me will never go hungry or thirsty, And whoever comes to me I will never turn away.

Then he added,

You seek God when you believe the one God sent to you.

I am God’s bread from heaven.

The Jews were completely confused.

How can this man give us his flesh to eat?

I am the true bread of life that has come down from heaven to give life to the world.

My life is from the heavenly father. He has sent me to you because there’s no life in you.

But if you feed on me and my words, you will live because of me.

Unless you eat my flesh and drink my blood, you have no life in you. But if you do eat and drink, I will raise you up on the last day.

JESUS, THE BREAD OF LIFE

John 6:25 – 59

8

These were harsh words.

Some of Jesus’ followers were upset.

This is the last straw. let’s find another teacher.

What about you. Are you leaving too?

Are you offended? What would happen if you saw me ascend to where I came from? That would really throw you off, wouldn’t it?

It’s not easy to follow me. In fact, no one can come to me and be my disciple unless the Father draws him.

Master, to whom would we go? You are from God, and you have the words of eternal life.

At that time many people deserted Jesus and went back to their old ways and the rules of their religious leaders. They were simply unable to understand his teaching about the kingdom of God that overruled the old ways and annulled everything they had learned about being respectable Jews.

One day, Jesus was approached by some of their leaders...

Oh, you hypocrites! Isaiah spoke about you when he said, “They honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me!”

Why are your disciples violating the rules by eating without washing their hands?

Jesus knew how the Jews were obsessed with the outward appearance instead of inner transformation.

He was simply trying to make them understand that cleansing the outside doesn’t necessarily make the inside clean. It’s the other way around.

Later, Jesus arrived at the pagan city of Tyre.

There he met a woman whose daughter was possessed by an evil spirit.

Who can heal her from this?

9

There’s a miracle-worker in town! maybe he can help.

JESUS AND TRADITION

Really?

Please Take me to him.

John 6:60 – 69; Mark 7:1–23

Jesus was staying in a house where he hoped no one could find him. Now the peace was disturbed by this mother.

Please drive the evil spirit out of my daughter!

Master, please help me!

The woman kept begging for help.

Woman, you’re jumping the line.

You’re right.

Off you go. The evil spirit has already left your daughter.

Yes, Master, that’s true. But it’s also true that the dogs eat the crumbs that the children drop on the floor under the table.

Wait till it’s your turn.

The dogs have to wait until the children are fed.

When the woman returned to the house, she found her daughter completely well and relaxed.

Hi, Mom!

A PAGAN WOMAN’S FAITH

Mark 7:24-30

10

Jesus now left the region of Tyre and went further north to Sidon before he returned to Galilee. While teaching his disciples, he was constantly interrupted by needy people.

Master, this man is deaf and can hardly speak. Please heal him!

Jesus put his fingers into the man’s ears and put spit on his tongue.

Come with me.

Ephphatha! (which means) open up!

The man opened his mouth and...

I can hear!

I can speak!

Jesus healed me!

Jesus healed a man who was both deaf and mute!

Jesus told them to keep it quiet, but they did just the opposite...

Jesus is a trickster! he leads our people astray.

The pharisees and the religious leaders were offended-not just because Jesus didn’t seem to respect their authority but also because the people deserted them and flocked around Jesus.

Let’s find out if he can show us a real sign.

11

JESUS HEALS A DEAF AND MUTE MAN

Mark 7:31-37

Jesus, show us a sign from heaven so we may believe you.

Oh, you blind pharisees! Haven’t you seen enough already?

You easily interpret the signs in the natural world, but you’re blind when it comes to interpreting the spiritual signs of the times.

Come, Lord, let’s leave.

You wicked people want signs and miracles, But the only sign you’ll get is the sign of Jonah.

food is not the problem.

Your thinking is the problem. Don’t you understand?

Be aware of the yeast of the Pharisees and sadducees.

Why did he say that? Is it because we didn’t bring any bread to eat?

Remember the miracle of the loaves and fish? weren’t there many baskets left? so why worry about food?

THE YEAST OF THE PHARISEES

No, I wasn’t talking about bread.

I was talking about their teaching that so easily contaminates your minds.

Matthew 16:1-12

12

You still don’t get it, do you?

No, They didn’t. They could see his miracles, and they believed he was sent by God. But they didn’t quite understand his teaching that was so opposite of everything they had learned.

In Bethsaida a blind man was brought to Jesus...

Come with me.

We know you can heal him.

Please touch this man, Jesus!

Then he put spit on his fingers and touched the man’s eyes.

I see people. they look like trees walking around.

13

Jesus touched his eyes again...

When they were alone, Jesus stopped...

Open your eyes.

Do you see anything?

I can see!

I see everything clearly!

A BLIND MAN IS HEALED

Don’t go back to the village.

Mark 8:22-26

One day, as they were walking north towards the town of Caesarea Philippi, Jesus suddenly stopped and faced the disciples...

Tell me, who do people say I am?

Some say John the baptist. others say Elijah. still others say one of the prophets.

God bless you, Simon! You didn’t learn this from books or from a teacher. God himself revealed it to you.

what about you--who do you say that I am?

You are the Christ, son of the living God!

The gates of hell will never prevail against it.

You are Peter, the rock on which I will build my church.

To you I give the keys of the kingdom of heaven.

What you bind on earth will be bound in heaven; and what you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.

Jesus warned them against telling others who he was.

A few days later, Jesus called Peter, James, and his brother John aside.

Let’s go up on the hill over there..

JESUS CHRIST THE SON OF GOD

Matthew 16:13-20

14

Once on top of the hill...

Leave him alone. He wants to pray.

Suddenly Jesus’ face began to shine, and his clothes became dazzling white..

Look! He’s not alone.

The disciples realized the two strangers were Moses and Elijah.

This is my beloved son with whom I am well pleased. Obey his words!!

How wonderful!

Let’s build three huts for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah.

Yeah, if we could just stay here forever!

Look! a bright cloud!

The disciples were terrified at this sight and fell to the ground. but Jesus came over and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “don’t be afraid.”

15

JESUS’ TRANSFIGURATION

Matthew 17:1-13

When they looked up, they realized Moses and Elijah were gone.

Don’t tell anyone about what you have seen, not until I have been raised from the dead.

Come, let’s join the others.

From then on Jesus spoke more openly about his death and how he would suffer at the hands of the Jews.

I told your disciples about him, but they couldn’t heal him.

It’s my son.

He is mentally ill and in great trouble.

Bring the boy to me.

Master, please help me!

How long has he been like this?

I do believe.

Help me overcome my doubt.

Lord, do you think you can help him?

Since he was little.

You evil spirit, get out of him and never come back!

JESUS HEALS A BOY FROM AN EVIL SPIRIT

If I can?

Everything is possible for those who believe.

Oh no!

He’s dead!

Mark 9:14-27; Matthew 14:17-23

16

But Jesus lifted the boy to his feet. He was perfectly well.

Why couldn’t we heal the boy?

Because of your little faith.

If you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, nothing would be impossible for you.

After this they went back to Galilee.

On the way Jesus told them he would be betrayed and killed. This made them very sad. “But on the third day I will rise again,” he added.

UpOn their arrival in Capernaum, Simon Peter was approached by one of the temple tax officials responsible for collecting the taxes used for the upkeep of the temple. This tax was two drachmas, which equaled two days’ wages, and it was paid annually by every male over 20 years of age.

Hey you! why doesn’t your master pay the temple tax?

He does.

Simon, what do you think? Do kings tend to demand taxes from their own people or those they have conquered?

Those they have conquered.

Right. Their own people usually don’t have to.

But alright, let’s not offend anyone. Go and throw out a line. Take the first fish you catch and open its mouth.

When Peter opened its mouth, a fourdrachma coin fell out.

17

This should be enough for both Jesus and me.

THE TEMPLE TAX

Matthew 17:24-27

Jesus watched the disciples. he knew they still had lots to learn. Their conduct had improved, but their minds and hearts still needed some changing.

What were you arguing about?

We were discussing who is the greatest in God’s kingdom.

Come, my friend!

What about someone who does us harm?

Should we treat him nicely too?

Yes, go and settle your disagreement with him. If he listens to you, you have won him over. If he doesn’t, take some witnesses with you.

This child is the greatest. You can’t even get close to God’s kingdom unless you change and become like this child.

If he still refuses to listen, then bring your case to the community.

GREATNESS IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD

Don’t look down on anybody, not even the children. they have angels who represent them in heaven. Whoever welcomes a little child welcomes me.

And whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in God’s kingdom.

I assure you, whatever two or three agree to ask for here on earth, my Father in heaven will give it to you.

For where two or three gather together in my name, there I will be among them.

Matthew 18:1-9, 15-20; Mark 9:33-37

18

Again and again, Jesus had impressed on the disciples the necessity of unconditional love for everyone, not just for one’s friends but for one’s enemies and persecutors as well. Yet it still hadn’t dawned on the disciples what he really meant.

Master, forgive me, but exactly how much should I forgive someone who constantly No, Simon, sins against me? multiply it by is seven times seventy, and that enough? wouldn’t even be enough.

This servant still owes me 10 million dollars.

You still don’t understand what the kingdom is like, do you? Then hear this story: There once was a king...

...who decided to update his accounts.

Sir, please have mercy on me.

I promise I’ll pay it all back.

Sell him and his wife and children as slaves so his debt can be paid.

Your debt is cancelled!

I feel pity for you. I forgive you.

Please have mercy on me. I’ll pay you back.

On his way home this servant ran into a man who owed him 2,000 dollars...

Hey, wait up!

You owe me money!

But the creditor wouldn’t wait.

He prosecuted his debtor and had him put in prison until the debt was paid in full.

The other servants in the king’s court were disgusted over this and told the king about it.

19

You wicked servant...

FORGIVENESS

Matthew 18:21-35

This is what God will do to you unless you truly forgive those who do you wrong.

Then The unforgiving servant was thrown in jail. ...I forgave you much, but you wouldn’t even forgive a little.

One day Jesus gathered seventy of the disciples and sent them out to preach.

I’m sending you out like lambs among wolves.

Later...

Even the evil spirits obeyed us!

He told them to bring nothing with them and to waste no time along the way.

Thank you, Father, for hiding these things from the worldly wise!

And Thank you for revealing them to the minds of simple people!

Don’t worry about demons.

Rejoice that your names are registered in heaven.

On his way south on the border between Samaria and Galilee, Jesus met ten lepers...

Master, have pity on us!

Go to the priests, and tell them you are healed.

Thank you! This is a miracle.

Praise God!

JESUS SENDS OUT THE SEVENTY

They didn’t hesitate for a moment.

Look, we are cleansed!

Weren’t all ten men healed? Only this Samaritan returned to give praise to God. Where are the nine?

Luke 10:1-12

Stand up and go home.

It was your faith that made you well.

THE TEN LEPERS

Luke 17:11-19

20

The Jewish Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem was near. The Jews expected Jesus at the festival since everyone wanted to see his miracles. So Jesus’ brothers urged him to go with them. At first Jesus said no, but after they left he decided to go in secret.

I do not teach my own ideas or yours.

My teaching comes from God who sent me. I don’t seek my own glory but God’s. Why do you then want to kill me?

Halfway through the feast Jesus entered the temple and began to teach in public.

Some thought Jesus was sent by God; others thought he was a fake.

They say Jesus is here. But where is he?

Amazing! Where did this Jesus get his learning from? He didn’t go to our schools.

He’s a good person. How can you say he’s a madman?

When The priests and the pharisees heard about the riot, they sent the temple guards to arrest Jesus.

I know God, but you don’t. I came from him. He approves of me.

Who wants to kill you? He thinks he’s the Messiah.

He’s possessed.

When the Messiah comes, will he do more miracles than this man?

But most of the common people believed him.

I think he’s the Christ indeed.

If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, streams of living water shall flow from his inmost being.

The soldiers returned...

Let’s get out of here.

Where’s Jesus?

You were supposed to arrest him!

We’ve never heard anybody speak like him.

So he led you astray too?

Take it easy!

It isn’t legal to convict a man without trying him first.

But he’s from Galilee.

Doesn’t Scripture say that the messiah will come out of David’s family and town?

21

JESUS TEACHES IN THE TEMPLE

John 7:1-52

Nicodemus, why are you defending him? Are you from Galilee too?

No, but why are you condemning him?

After this incident the crowd was dismissed and sent home.

But Jesus went to the mount of Olives to spend the night there.

Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery.

Early the next morning, Jesus returned to the temple where a crowd had gathered to hear him speak.

Jesus, look!

The law commands us to stone such a woman. What is your opinion?

Jesus didn’t have just opinions but relied on the truth instead. He sat down and began writing in the sand.

The accusers were confused. finally they let go of their rocks and slipped away, one by one, the older ones first.

Who of you have never sinned?

Let him throw the first stone.

Where are your accusers?

Has no one comdemned you?

Neither do I. Go and sin no more.

No one, sir.

THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS

John 8:1-11

22

One day when Jesus was teaching in the temple, a law expert wanted to test him.

Teacher, what must I do to have eternal life in heaven?

Listen carefully to this story...

What does the law say?

You’re right. Do this and you will live.

But who is my neighbor?

A man was traveling from here to Jericho.

A little later a priest came by.

He saw the man...

But suddenly he was attacked by bandits.

Then they left him half dead on the roadside.

The bandits stripped him of his clothes and beat him up.

23

It says, Love God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind, and love your neighbor as yourself.

...and passed by.

Then came a levite.

He also passed by.

THE GOOD SAMARITAN

Luke 10:25-37

Finally, a man from samaria came by.

...and cared for him all night.

When he saw the man, he felt pity for him.

He washed and bandaged his wounds.

Then he told the inn-keeper, Take good care of him. When I come back, I will reimburse you for your expenses.

Then he sat him on his donkey and took him to the nearest inn...

Now, who of the three men do you think was a neighbor to this poor man?

The one who showed pity.

Right.

Now go and do like him!

Outside Jerusalem Jesus and the disciples entered the village of Bethany where Martha and her sister Mary lived. Martha invited Jesus into their home.

Why doesn’t mary help me instead of just sitting there listening to Jesus?

Good to see you again, Martha. How are you?

Very well.

Sit down and rest while I prepare some food.

JESUS VISITS MARTHA AND MARY

Luke 10:38-42

Martha, why are you so concerned?

There’s only one thing to be concerned about, and Mary has discovered it.

24

Once when Jesus came back from one of his prayer retreats, a disciple asked him, ”Lord, teach us to pray!”

Jesus told this story: Imagine a man who is a friend.

It’s midnight; everyone is asleep.

Suddenly, there’s a knock on the door.

Open the door! A friend has just arrived, and I have no food to serve him.

k oc Kn ck o kn

Go away! we’re asleep. I can’t help you now.

Please, Loan me some bread!

Please!

ck

o Kn

This is what prayer is. keep on Asking, and you’ll receive.

I tell you, if he won’t listen because he’s his friend, then he’ll listen because of the man’s persistence.

keep on searching, and you’ll find.

keep on knocking, and the door will be opened.

God is your loving father. He won’t give you a snake if you ask for a fish.

And He will give the holy spirit to those who ask.

One day they met a man on the road who had been blind since birth.

This started a discussion among the disciples about why some people seem to suffer unjustly.

Jesus spat on the ground...

Master, why was he born blind?

IS this a punishment? Who sinned--he or his parents?

No, this is an opportunity for God to demonstrate his power.

...and made mud from the spit and dirt.

Then he smoothed it over the man’s eyelids.

I’m the light of the world. I’ll give you light.

Now go and wash your eyes in the pool of Siloam.

the blind man trusted Jesus and went to the pool of Siloam...

25

JESUS TEACHES ABOUT PRAYER

Luke 11:5-13

Slowly he worked his way to the edge of the pool and bent down...

I can see!

What do you mean, you can see?

It’s a miracle!

He sure looks like the blind beggar we know.

What happened?

Jesus put mud on my eyes and made me see!

I am the same man.

Jesus healed me!

Now all this happened on a sabbath.

This Jesus can’t be from God if he works on the sabbath.

Who do you think Jesus is?

I think he’s a prophet of God.

We’d better take you to the pharisees.

There’s something odd about this. Let’s ask his parents.

But how can an ordinary man work miracles?

Can you verify that your son was born blind?

Yes, sir, absolutely, and we have no idea how this happened. Ask our son. he can speak for himself.

Now, tell us the truth! did this sinner heal you?

All I know is that I can see.

Why do you keep asking?

Do you also want to follow him?

Don’t be so brash! We follow Moses not someone we don’t know anything about.

That’s your problem.

I know he healed me; AND IF HE HEALED ME, HE MUST be FROM GOD. You sinner! are you trying to teach us?

Get out of here!

JESUS HEALS A BLIND MAN

John 9:1-34

26

WHEN JESUS HEARD HOW THEY HAD TREATED THE MAN, HE WENT OUT TO find HIM.

My friend, do you believe in the son of man?

I came into the world to give sight to the blind and to strike with blindness those who claim to see.

Master, I believe!

What? Are we blind?

Sure! who is he?

I’m he.

Rumors about Jesus’ miracles and healings spread all over the land. Most people believed he was a prophet of God. but Jesus didn’t just want them to believe in him, he wanted them to understand his teaching which he often veiled in simple stories.

Here’s ...other than by the gate is a thief. a story in which Jesus wanted to expose the Pharisees.

Anyone who enters the sheepfold ...

But whoever enters through the gate is a true shepherd.

The sheep recognize his voice and come to him.

they won’t follow a stranger.

They will flee from him because they don’t trust his voice.

He calls them by name and leads them out. They trust his voice and follow him.

I am the gate.

Those who go in through me will be saved.

Yes, but you claim you can see, and that is your sin.

Jesus realized they had no idea what the story meant.

A bad shepherd will run away when he sees the wolf coming. The wolf attacks and scatters the flock.

And I’m the good shepherd who risks his life for the sheep.

I have other sheep in other sheepfolds, too. I will bring my But I’m the sheep together so there will be one flock and one shepherd. good shepherd who knows my sheep, No, He’s and they know me. a maniac!

The Father loves me, and in his love I risk my life.

The people were divided He’s a true in their opinions about prophet! him, But Jesus continued to speak what his father had commanded him to say.

27

JESUS THE GOOD SHEPHERD

John 9:35-10:21

You are not among my sheep. My sheep listen to my words and follow me. I give them eternal life, and I will never betray them.

How long will you keep us in suspense? Tell us, are you the Christ?

the festival of dedication was approaching, and Jesus spent much time in the temple. but he kept a low profile.

Then One day he was attacked by a group of angry Jews...

I already told you, but you didn’t believe me.

Yes. the father and I are one.

The father has given them to me. No one can snatch them from me.

Are you calling God your father?

Not Even the prophets said such things. This is blasphemy!

Haven’t I done many good things for you? Which one are you killing me for?

Haven’t you read in the scriptures that we are all gods?

Stone him!

Before they could arrest him, he walked away and went across the Jordan river where John was first baptizing people. Those who followed him said, “John was right in everything he said about this man.”

Master!

Please come right away! your friend Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha, is very sick.

So Jesus didn’t go right away.

He stayed where he was for another couple of days. Then...

let’s go back to Judea.

His sickness isn’t fatal; It’s for the glory of God and me.

Master, just a few days ago, the jews in Judea were trying to kill you.

Why go to Judea and risk it again?

Let’s risk it.

On the way we’ll visit Lazarus and wake him up from his sleep.

What about Lazarus?

By “sleep” Jesus meant “dead.” he wanted to raise lazarus from the dead to strengthen their faith.

Martha!

Jesus is coming!

THE JEWS BEGIN TO OPPOSE JESUS

John 10:22-42

Jesus, where have you been?

28

Lord, if you had been here, Lazarus wouldn’t have died.

Your brother will rise again.

I am the resurrection and the life.

Whoever believes in me will never ever die.

Martha ran back to the house that was full of mourners.

I believe you are Christ, the son of God.

Mary, Jesus is here. He wants to see you.

I believe he will rise on the last day.

Mary hurried out to meet Jesus.

If you had been here, my brother wouldn’t have died.

Go meet him.

Lord!

Where did you put him?

Jesus loved his friend Lazarus and Lazarus’ sisters very much.

Look, Jesus is crying.

Lazarus had already been buried.

Roll the stone aside!

he could easily have prevented Lazarus’ death.

29

But Lord, he has been dead for four days.

The smell will be really bad.

I told you that you will see the power of God if you believe.

JESUS RAISES LAZARUS FROM THE DEAD

Father, thank you for always hearing my prayers.

John 11:1-44

Unwrap him, and let him go!

Lazarus, come out!

Because of this miracle, many more Jews believed in Jesus. Others were offended and told the pharisees and the priests what had happened. the high council was summoned.

What shall we do? If this gets out of hand, the Romans may close down our temple and eventually destroy our nation.

Caiaphas’ words were more prophetic than he himself would know. By this he was saying that Jesus would die for his country -- and not only for a nation but for all people around the world so they might come together as one people under one shepherd.

THE PLOT TO KILL JESUS

Caiaphas, the high priest, rose to his feet...

It seems better to me that one man dies for the people than a whole nation perish for one man.

From that day the Jewish leaders seriously plotted to kill Jesus. So he stopped moving about publicly and withdrew to a village near the desert.

John 11:45-54

30

Woman, you Far from the high are released council in a small from your galilean village, disease!

Jesus was teaching in the local synagogue. It was Sabbath, the day of rest.

Among the listeners Jesus spotted a crippled woman.

She told him she had suffered from her disease for over 18 years.

Praise God, I’m healed!

But you are indifferent to a poor Jewish woman whom Satan has held in bondage for 18 years.

O you men of double standard!

You care for your animals even on the sabbath.

Lord, will many or only a few get saved?

Heaven’s gate is narrow.

Many will try to enter after it is too late.

There are six days for work. Why don’t you come and get healed on those days?

Once again Jesus had silenced his adversaries.

They will knock and plead...

Go away! I don’t know you.

Lord, open the door!

Although they claim to believe in God, he will send them to a place of severe suffering.

q

ck

Kno

People from the far corners of the earth will come and enter the gate, And all the patriarchs and prophets will be there...

Once Jesus was invited for dinner at a prominent Pharisee’s house. Among the guests was a man with a strange disease...

It was the sabbath, but again, this didn’t seem to make a difference to Jesus.

... to welcome Them to the banquet.

But those who were highly esteemed here will be seated lowest there.

Jesus’ host was offended but didn’t comment on it.

Be healed!

If any of you had a child or an animal that happened to fall in a well, wouldn’t you immediately pull them out even on a sabbath?

the Pharisees didn’t know what to say.

31

MORE HEALINGS

Luke 13:10-17; 14:1-6

THE NARROW GATE

Luke 13:23-30

When you are invited to a wedding feast, don’t choose the best place to sit.

Once at a dinner, Jesus noticed how some of the guests were quick to choose the best places near the host.

Someone more important may This seat is have been reserved invited too. for this man.

Please leave it for him.

Instead, choose the lowest place...

...so that your host will come and say, “Please, come to a better place!”

This will bring you honor in the presence of the other guests.

And you, my host, when you give a dinner, don’t just invite those who can invite you back.

Hear this story: A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many people.

Then he sent out his servant...

No, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. This may not bring you honor, but it will bless you so much more.

Please come to my master’s banquet!

But they gave all kinds of excuses.

Sorry, I’m busy.

I can’t come.

One said he’d just bought a new field, another that he’d just bought new livestock, a third that he’d just got married...

Master, no one could come to your banquet.

Well then, hurry out into the streets and alleys of the town and invite the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame!

Finally, the house was full.

And so he did.

Master, there’s still room for more people.

Very well then, go out on the highways and byways, and invite everyone you meet.

I tell you, none of those who were first invited will taste a bite of the great dinner that has been prepared in the kingdom of God.

THE GREAT FEAST

Luke 14:7-24

32

More and more people crowded around Jesus.

One day he turned to the crowd and told them what it really meant to be a disciple...

Master, didn’t you make a budget?

No.

That’s how the world works. but those who follow me must obey my words not their reasoning.

And when you find it, you carry it home...

You cannot be my disciple unless you love me more than you love yourself and your own family.

First, you must Take up your cross and follow me.

Right.

It takes trust...

...not calculation because you will not be able to foresee the consequences. If someone wants to build a tower, he will count the cost...

Those are harsh words, Master.

Sorry, we’re out of money!

God cares for you. He’s like a shepherd who cares for his flock.

Our army is too small.

Let’s send messengers to negotiate for peace instead.

Or imagine a king who wants to go to war. before he does he figures out how many soldiers are needed.

Suppose you had a hundred sheep, and one got lost.

Wouldn’t you leave the 99 and go out to SEARCH for your lost sheep?

In the same way, heaven will rejoice more over a sinner who changeS his ways than over 99 good people who think they don’t need to change.

...and say to your friends, “Rejoice with me! I found my lost sheep.”

God is like a woman who lost a precious coin.

Immediately she lit a light and searched for it until...

...she found it.

“Come rejoice with me,” she said. “I found the coin that was lost.”

I tell you, in the same way, the angels of heaven will rejoice over one sinner who is found and wants to change.

33

THE COST OF BEING A DISCIPLE

Luke 14:25-33

LOST AND FOUND

Luke 15:4-10

HERE’S ANOTHER STORY: A MAN HAD TWO SONS.

So the father divided his property between his sons...

ONE DAY THE YOUNGER SON came to his father...

FATHER, PLEASE GIVE ME MY SHARE OF THE inHERITAncE.

...and the young son took off in search of fortune in a distant country.

There he wasted all his money in wild living.

Later, the land was struck by a bad famine.

Get out!

We can’t help you.

I’ve no more money, and My friends are gone. I’ll have to beg.

Cheers!

Later, he was able to find a job.

Sir, I’ll do whatever you want me to.

So he was sent to the pigs.

I’m so hungry I could eat pig food.

his misery finally brought him to his senses.

My father’s hired men have plenty to eat, and here I am starving to death.

I want to go home!

So he got up and went home to his father.

THE LOST SON WHO RETURNED HOME

Luke 15:11-28

34

When he was still far away, his father saw him coming...

My son! ...and ran out to welcome him back home.

But the father called his servants...

Father, I have sinned against God and done wrong to you.

I no longer deserve to be called your son.

Hurry! Bring out the best coat and put it on him. put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet.

the older son returned from the field. As he approached the house, he heard loud music...

What’s going on?

Your brother has come home!

Father, listen to me!

I have served you faithfully all these years, but you didn’t give me even a single goat to celebrate with my friends.

Also Prepare a delicious meal. we must celebrate that my son who was dead has come back to life.

But when this son of yours came back after having squandered your money, you happily serve the best food for him!

My son, you are with me every day, and Everything I have is yours. But shouldn’t we celebrate that your brother who was lost has now been found?

35

Here’s another story Jesus told. It’s about Lazarus, a beggar who was lying outside a rich man’s house.

The rich man could eat everything he desired, while Lazarus had to eat the leftovers from his table. Lazarus’ body was covered with sores, and the wild dogs were licking the sores.

...and went to the place of death.

From there he could see Lazarus and Abraham far off.

Father Abraham, I’m in great pain.

Please help me!

Send Lazarus over so he can dip his finger in water and cool my tongue.

One day Lazarus died, and the angels of God carried him away and laid him in Abraham’s arms.

Also, between you and us is a huge pit that no one can cross.

Son, in life you had your time of luxury and fun.

Now it’s Lazarus’ time to enjoy eternal life.

The rich man also died...

Then please send Lazarus to my five brothers to warn them so they won’t end up in this place of suffering.

son, If they won’t listen to the scriptures, a messenger from the dead will not convince them either.

They already have the law of Moses and the writings of the prophets. Let them listen to them.

No, Father, they may only listen and repent if someone came from the dead and warned them.

THE RICH MAN AND LAZARUS

Luke 16:19-31

36

The pharisees wanted to know more about god’s kingdom...

When the son of man returns, there will be no doubt about it. You will know.

When Jesus was alone with his disciples, he told them not to be led astray but to watch for the signs of his coming back to earth.

How and when will it come?

It’s here, but you can’t see it.

People will say, “It’s here!” or “There it is!”

No, The kingdom of God is within.

But first he must suffer and be rejected by this age.

People will be like they were at the time of the great flood in Noah’s days...

And then, when he comes back, he will return in splendor and glory. It will be as visible as lightening flashing across the sky.

...and they all drowned.

Or in the days of Lot when fire consumed the city of sodom.

...when they were eating and drinking and partying until the moment God closed the ark’s door...

This is how it will be when the son of man returns. Two people will work in the field.

One will be left; the other will not even have time to go home and pack his things.

Two people will be sleeping in the same bed. One will go; the other will be left behind.

Two women will work together.

One will go; the other will be left behind.

Remember what happened to lot’s wife. Whoever wants to secure his life will lose it; but whoever lets go of his life will secure it.

37

The disciples were shocked by Jesus’ words. they wanted to know more about when and where all these things would happen.

But Jesus’ only answer was: “When you see a vulture, you know where the carcass is.”

THE COMING OF GOD’S KINGDOM

Luke 17:20-37

Jesus told them another story about how they should pray...

In a town lived a judge who didn’t care about God or what others thought of him.

In the same town lived a widow who kept coming to him to speak up for her rights.

After a while, the judge was sick of her pestering...

I’m being cheated by my adversary.

Please grant me justice!

Now, Don’t you think God is more merciful than a bad judge? won’t He grant his people their right when they cry out to him day and night? I wonder if the son of man will find faith like this when he comes back.

Here’s what you want. Now Please go and leave me alone.

I’d better grant her justice. Otherwise, she’ll bother me forever.

The pharisees were always around when Jesus was teaching. They wanted to gather evidence to have him arrested.

Rabbi, can a man divorce his wife for no particular reason?

PERSISTENT PRAYER

What does the law of Moses say?

That it is legal if he first writes a certificate of divorce.

Luke 18:1-8; Mark 10:1-9

Sorry, I can’t help you.

What God has joined together, no one should separate.

Yes, but that’s not the ideal. God made man and woman to become one.

Therefore, Whoever divorces his or her spouse and marries again has committed adultery.

38

While Jesus was teaching, some women and their children came along.

What are they doing here?

Simon, what are you doing?

Let the children come to me, and never ever stop them.

Please go away. The master is busy.

I said, Go away!

Are you deaf?

God’s kingdom belongs to people like them. Yes, I tell you, you must receive the kingdom just like little children. Otherwise, you won’t be able to enter it at all.

Come closer.

Jesus will bless your children.

39

JESUS BLESSES THE CHILDREN

Mark 10:13-16

Rabbi!

A few minutes later, a young man came running and bowed down before Jesus...

Don’t call me good.

Only God is If you good. want eternal life -- keep the commandments Good of Moses. teacher, what must I do to have eternal life?

The rich young man turned around and went away sad.

It’s very hard for a rich person to enter God’s kingdom. It’s easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle.

There’s still one thing you must do. Go and sell all you own, and give the money to the poor.

I have kept them all since childhood.

Then come and follow me.

For man this is impossible. But with God everything is possible.

Who will then be saved?

Master, we already left everything to follow you. what about us?

Don’t worry.

Everyone will have their chance. Hear this story and you’ll better understand how God works.

THE RICH YOUNG MAN

You will get a hundred times more than you left in this life -- and receive eternal life.

A LANDOWNER WENT OUT EARLY iN THE MORNiNG TO HiRE WORKERS FOR HiS ViNEYARD. He agreed to pay each a silver coin for one day’s work.

Matthew 19:16-30

40

The workers began to work...

...while the landowner went back to town. It was now 9 o’clock in the morning.

I have work for you.

At the end of the day, the owner called his foreman...

At the marketplace he found other people looking for work. He also hired them and sent them to his vineyard. This happened again at 12 noon and 3 pm.

Finally, at 5 pm he went to the marketplace for the last time. There were still workers looking for work...

Those who were hired at 5 pm were paid one silver coin and so were all the others, even those who had worked since early morning.

That’s not fair!

Now Pay the workers, and start with those I hired last.

Why did you hang about all day?

No one hired us.

I’ll hire you.

Why not? Didn’t I pay you what we had agreed upon? why are you envious because I am generous?

In God’s kingdom the last will be the first, and the first will be the last.

Jesus was heading for Jerusalem.

He knew his mission was about to be over.

In Jerusalem the son of man will be handed over to the chief priests and the experts of the law who will sentence him to death.

Right then, the mother of James and John came and bowed down before Jesus. She wanted to ask him a favor...

The Romans will crucify him, but he will be raised to life on the third day.

What do you want?

Please let my sons sit next to you in your kingdom!

41

Master, are you serious? what are you talking about?

You don’t know what you’re asking.

Can you endure the sufferings that I must endure?

THE WORKERS IN THE VINEYARD

Yes, we can!

Matthew 20:1-16; 17-19; 20-28

You will share in my sufferings, but it’s not up to me to decide who will sit at my side. My father will decide.

Listen! You all know how the rulers of this world love to show their power.

Don’t fall into this trap.

Who do they think they are?

Whoever wants to be a true leader must learn to serve.

Follow my example.

I came to serve and to give my life as a ransom for many.

What about us?

Outside the city of Jericho, Jesus noticed a blind man, Bartimaeus, who was sitting at the roadside begging.

It’s Jesus, the healer from Nazareth. He’s coming this way!

What’s all the noise about?

Hush!

Not so loud.

Son of David, Please help me!

Jesus, Son of David, Please help me!

He sees you!

Your faith has healed you!

I can see!

Immediately, Bartimaeus got up and followed Jesus.

Praise God, He has healed me!

He has given me back my sight!

What do you want me to do for you?

I want to see!

JESUS HEALS A BLIND MAN

Luke 18:35-43

42

Zacchaeus, a short man who was hated by the townspeople because of his lucrative job as the town’s chief tax collector, also wanted to see Jesus.

Jesus was entering Jericho. Everyone wanted to see Jesus do miracles, so the streets were crowded with people.

I’ll climb this tree so I can better see Jesus.

But people were complaining. They were disappointed Jesus seemed to accept a man who was cheating them.

I’ll give half of what I own to the poor!

Zacchaeus, come down!

I want to visit you.

Zacchaeus was excited. Jesus had even called him by name!

By now Jesus was near Jerusalem where the religious leaders wanted him arrested and charged with blasphemy. He still wanted his disciples to understand that he wasn’t going to establish any kingdom on earth until A man was going on a journey. But before he left he told his three servants to take care of his property.

After some time the man came back and called for his three servants.

What did you do with the money I entrusted to you?

And I earned two more!

...and to another one silver coin.

...to another two silver coins...

Take his coin, and give it to the one who earned five coins. Then throw him out into the darkness, a place of regret.

Well done!

Well done!

Sir, I was afraid to lose your money. So I hid my coin in the ground.

Here it is!

You lazy servant! You could at least have deposited it in a bank and earned interest on it.

43

The son of man has come to seek out the lost and save them from sin.

his mission had ended. This meant they had to be able to manage Jesus’ vision after he was gone. So he told them this story:

To one he entrusted five silver coins...

Master, you gave me five coins. I put your money to work and have earned another five!

Today is the day of salvation for this man and his household.

JESUS VISITS ZACCHAEUS

Luke 19:1-11

God will treat you the same way. when it’s time to settle the accounts, he’ll give more to those who spent what they had and take everything away from those who held on to what they had.

THE TEN TALENTS

Matthew 25:14-30

On his way to the passover feast in Jerusalem, Jesus came by Bethany where his friend Lazarus and his two sisters, Mary and Martha, lived.

What’s Mary up to?

Judas, leave her alone. By doing this she has prepared me for my burial.

It smells good!

Look! she’s pouring expensive oil on Jesus’ feet.

Judas didn’t really care for the poor. He was in charge of the money, and he used to put aside some for himself.

As it got around that Jesus was staying in Bethany at the house of Lazarus whom he had raised from the dead, many Jews came out to see him.

Because of Lazarus, many people believed in him, so the priests plotted to kill both Lazarus and Jesus.

I will soon leave you, but the poor will always be among you.

The next day, Jesus and the disciples set out for Jerusalem Outside the village of Bethphage...

Hey, what are you doing?

Master, this is a waste of money. The oil could be sold and the money given to the poor.

Go into town. There you will find a donkey with her colt.

Bring them to me.

This must be the one.

If anyone asks, just tell them, “The Lord needs them!”

Jesus mounted the donkey and entered Jerusalem on the first day of passover.

The Lord needs it.

Master, here’s your donkey!

JESUS’ WAY TO THE CROSS

What’s going on?

Who’s this?

John 12:1-11; Matthew 21:8-11

44

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!

Son of David! Hosanna!

Teacher, tell your disciples to stop this noise!

If they are quiet, the stones will cry out instead.

Praise God!

Jesus finally entered the city.

We’re getting nowhere. The people are on his side.

Someday your enemies will build a wall around you and encircle you on every side. Then You will be destroyed because you didn’t know your day of salvation.

O Jerusalem!

If you could just see what will bring you peace! But now it’s hidden from your eyes.

Look, he’s crying!

After Jesus had inspected the temple, he went...

45

...back to Bethany with his disciples for the night.

JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM

Luke 19: 39-44; Mark 11:8-11; John 12:12-19

The next day, Jesus went back to the temple where he intended to teach the people who had come for the festival.

Are you mad?

This is not a marketplace. Get out of here!

What’s all this?

Haven’t the prophets said, “My temple will be called a house of prayer?”

Out!

Why have you then turned it into a hangout for thieves?

Master, will you heal our sick?

Clean up the house of the lord!

I will.

Come in!

It’s so inappropriate for children to shout in the temple.

I can see!

I can walk!

Teacher, stop this screaming!

Why? Haven’t you read this: “From the mouths of children and babies will come praise?”

Hosanna!

B Then why do you want them to be quiet?

He is dangerous.

We must find a way to get rid of him.

JESUS CLEARS THE TEMPLE

It won’t be easy. people are wild about him.

Matthew 21:12-16; Mark 11:17-18

For a long time, the pharisees, the chief priests, and the law experts had been trying to silence Jesus. nothing had worked so far. But their net was slowly closing in on him.

46

I will answer your question if you will answer mine. tell me, From where did John the baptist get the authority to baptize people?

THE FOLLOWING DAY, JESUS RETURNED TO THE TEMPLE AREA to teach. Again The Jewish leaders were there, and this time they had changed their tactics...

If we answer, “From God!” he will say, “Why didn’t you then believe him?”

And if we say, “From man!” the people will go against us for They think John was a prophet of God.

Rabbi, tell us! from where did you get the authority to clear the temple yesterday?

Hear this story instead: A man had two sons. To both of them he said, “Go and work in my vineyard!”

The first son said No but went after all, while the other said yes but didn’t go.

They accepted John and repented, But you didn’t although you knew he was from God.

We don’t know.

Then I won’t answer you either.

Now, which son obeyed his father?

Correct! But you are like the other son. You say yes to God, but your behavior betrays your words.

The first, of course.

Are you saying we sin against God?

Then he went on a trip.

Let me tell you another story: a vineyard owner leased his vineyard to others.

When it was time for harvest, he sent his servants to collect his share of the grapes.

Take good care of my vineyard while I’m gone!

The servants were beaten badly...

Go away!

q

47

I’m telling you that sinners will enter God’s kingdom ahead of you.

JESUS AFFIRMS HIS AUTHORITY

These are our grapes!

Matthew 21:23-46

Later, the owner sent more servants, But they were treated just like the others.

There comes the owner’s son!

How terrible!

I’ll have to send my son.

They will respect him.

Let’s kill him and steal his inheritance!

Get out of here!

Then they dragged him out...

...and killed him.

he will Kill them and lease his vineyard to other tenants.

Now, what will the owner do to those people?

Exactly!

In case you still didn’t get it, let me tell you another story...

The religious leaders knew that Jesus was talking about them, so they discussed ways to have him arrested and sentenced to death. But they also knew they had to wait until the right moment when his popularity had died down.

When the feast was ready, The king sent out his servants to invite the guests to come.

Have you ever read this scripture, “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone?”

I tell you, God’s kingdom will be taken away from you and given to other tenants.

Others grabbed the servants and killed them.

Sorry, I have more important business to do.

God’s kingdom is like a wedding feast that a king prepared for his son.

Sorry, I’ll be busy in my field.

What have they done to my servants?

Then the king sent out soldiers to kill the murderers.

Now, go out in the streets, and invite whomever you meet.

He even burned down their cities.

All kinds of people came, But When the king entered the banquet hall, he noticed a man who wasn’t wearing proper wedding clothes.

THE WEDDING BANQUET

Friend, How did you get in without wedding clothes on?

Ehh...

Matthew 21:33-46; 22:1-14

That’s what God will do to those who are not prepared.

Servants, Tie him, and throw him out in the dark!

For Many are invited, but only a few are chosen.

48