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Part 4
Jesus' Life and Ministry
A life and Ministry That Lasted 33 Years
Jesus' life and ministry spanned approximately 33 years, and his impact continues to be felt to this day.The story of his life and ministry is the central narrative of Christianity, recorded in the New Testament of the Bible.
Jesus was born in Bethlehem to Mary and Joseph. His birth was announced by angels and marked by the visit of the wise men, who followed a star to find him. His family fled to Egypt to escape King Herod's order to kill all male infants.
The Beginning of Public Ministry
At around the age of 30, Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. As he came out of the water, the Holy Spirit descended upon him, and God declared him to be his beloved Son. Jesus then spent 40 days fasting in the wilderness, where he was tempted by Satan but resisted temptation.
After his baptism, Jesus began his public ministry by calling disciples to follow him. He taught about repentance, the Kingdom of God, and the fulfillment of Scripture. Jesus performed numerous miracles, including healing the sick, casting out demons, feeding thousands with a few loaves of bread and fish, and even raising the dead.
Jesus taught using parables, which were stories with moral lessons, to convey spiritual truths. He emphasized love for God and others, forgiveness, humility, and the importance of living a righteous life. Jesus also challenged religious leaders and confronted societal injustices.
The Death and Resurrection of Jesus
Jesus shared a final meal with his disciples, known as the Last Supper, during which he instituted the sacrament of Communion. Later that night, he was betrayed by Judas Iscariot and arrested. Jesus endured trials before religious and political authorities, eventually being sentenced to death by crucifixion.
Jesus was crucified at Golgotha, where he died and was buried in a tomb. However, on the third day, he rose from the dead, demonstrating victory over sin and death. He appeared to his disciples and others, offering them peace and commissioning them to spread his teachings to all nations.
Forty days after his resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven in the presence of his disciples. He promised to send the Holy Spirit as a helper and comforter to empower his followers. This event is known as the Ascension.
The story of Jesus' life and ministry continues to inspire and guide Christians worldwide. His teachings of love, forgiveness, and salvation, along with his sacrificial death and resurrection, form the foundation of the Christian faith.
