What did Jesus say about Israel

In exploring what Jesus said and did in Israel, we can find numerous instances throughout the Gospels where His actions and teachings are documented. Here are three Bible verses that highlight significant aspects of Jesus’ ministry in Israel:

1. Acts 2:22-24: “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know—this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it” . This passage underscores Jesus’ miracles, His crucifixion, and His resurrection, all pivotal to Christian faith.
2. Luke 24:19-24: The disciples recount, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel” . This reflection by Jesus’ followers highlights their initial hope in Him as the redeemer of Israel and their struggle to understand His crucifixion and the events surrounding His resurrection.
3. Matthew 4:17: “From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand'” . This statement marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry in Galilee, emphasizing the central message of repentance and the imminent arrival of God’s kingdom.

Three Main Takeaways:

1. Jesus’ Ministry Was Characterized by Miracles and Signs: Jesus’ time in Israel was marked by miraculous deeds that attested to His divine authority and mission. These acts were not just displays of power but were deeply tied to His teachings about the Kingdom of God.
2. The Crucifixion and Resurrection Are Central to the Christian Faith: The events of Jesus’ death and resurrection are foundational to Christianity. They signify God’s plan for redemption, the defeat of death, and the promise of eternal life for believers.
3. Jesus Called for Repentance and the Coming of God’s Kingdom: Throughout His ministry, Jesus preached the need for repentance and the nearness of the Kingdom of Heaven. His message was one of turning away from sin and embracing the transformative power of God’s rule.