Lecture Notes

Jesus' Visit to Hometown

• Jesus returns to his hometown with his disciples.
• Begins teaching in the synagogue on the Sabbath.
• People are amazed by his wisdom and miracles but skeptical due to his familiar background as a carpenter and Mary's son.
• Jesus remarks that a prophet is often without honor in his own town and family.
• Limited miracles performed due to lack of faith among locals.

Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Disciples

• Jesus travels and teaches from village to village.
• Sends his twelve disciples out in pairs.
• Gives them authority over impure spirits.

Instructions for the Disciples

• Take nothing for the journey except a staff.

• No bread, bag, or money.

• Wear sandals, but no extra shirt.

• Stay in one house per town.

• If unwelcome, leave and shake dust off feet as a testimony.

• Disciples preach repentance.

• Successfully drive out demons and heal sick by anointing with oil.

King Herod and John the Baptist

• King Herod hears of Jesus' growing fame.
• People speculate Jesus might be John the Baptist raised from the dead, Elijah, or another prophet.
• Herod believes John, whom he beheaded, is resurrected.

Background on John the Baptist's Death

• Herod had John arrested for criticizing his marriage to Herodias, his brother Philip's wife.
• Herodias held a grudge against John, wanting him dead.
• Herod, although puzzled, liked John and protected him knowing his righteousness.

Herod's Banquet and John the Baptist's Execution

• An opportune moment arises at Herod's birthday banquet.
• Herodias' daughter dances, pleasing Herod and guests.
• Herod offers the dancer anything she wishes, up to half the kingdom.
• At her mother's prompting, she asks for John the Baptist's head on a platter.
• Herod, distressed but bound by oath, orders John's execution.
• John's head presented to the girl, then to her mother.
• John's disciples retrieve and bury his body.