[1] 1:1 Good News In the gospels this is usually the news about the coming of God's kingdom (see above) or its representative Jesus Christ. In other places it is, more specifically, the news or message of God's grace-that he has made a way through Jesus Christ for people to be made right with him and enjoy his blessings now and forever.

[2] 1:1 the Son of God Some Greek copies do not have these words.

[3] 1:2 prophet A person who speaks a message from God. Many of the books in the Old Testament are messages spoken or written by "the prophets," who were some of those God chose to speak for him. God often used dreams or visions to tell or show his prophets what they should say.

[4] 1:4 John the Baptizer The man God chose to tell people about Christ's coming and to prepare them by warning them to change their lives and baptizing them (see "baptize") as a sign of their decision to change. Read Mt. 3; Mk. 1:1-11; Lk. 1:5-25, 57-80; 3:1-18.

[5] 1:4 baptize To perform the act of baptism. See "baptism."

[6] 1:6 locusts Insects like grasshoppers that could destroy a large crop very quickly. See Ex. 10. The law of Moses said that locusts could be eaten. See Lev. 11:21-22.

[7] 1:8 Holy Spirit Also called the Spirit of God, the Spirit of Christ, and the Comforter. In union with God and Christ, he does God's work among people in the world.

[8] 1:9 baptize To perform the act of baptism. See "baptism."

[9] 1:10 Spirit See "Holy Spirit."

[10] 1:12 Spirit See "Holy Spirit."

[11] 1:13 Satan A name for the devil meaning "the enemy," or "the accuser."

[12] 1:14 Good News In the gospels this is usually the news about the coming of God's kingdom (see above) or its representative Jesus Christ. In other places it is, more specifically, the news or message of God's grace-that he has made a way through Jesus Christ for people to be made right with him and enjoy his blessings now and forever.

[13] 1:15 God's kingdom The "reign" or "rule" of God over all humanity-a time of great blessing for those who submit to him by accepting Jesus as the Christ (appointed king), who represents God's kingdom on earth, being the perfect example of submission to the will of God. When people give control of their lives to Jesus, they become a part of God's kingdom and begin to enjoy the blessings he has promised his people from the beginning. (Note that in Matthew this term also translates the Greek phrase, "the kingdom of the heavens," which was used by Jews as a way to avoid saying the divine name.)

[14] 1:16 Simon Simon's other name was Peter. Also in verses 29, 36.

[15] 1:21 Capernaum A town on the northern shore of Lake Galilee where Jesus often spent time and taught.

[16] 1:21 Sabbath Saturday, the seventh day of the week and a special day for Israelites or Jews. By God's command it was set aside as a time for the people to rest and honor God.

[17] 1:21 synagogue A place in many cities where Jews gathered for prayer, study of the Scriptures, and other public meetings.

[18] 1:29 synagogue A place in many cities where Jews gathered for prayer, study of the Scriptures, and other public meetings.

[19] 1:32 demon An evil spirit from the devil.

[20] 1:34 who he was Meaning that the demons knew that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of God.

[21] 1:39 synagogue A place in many cities where Jews gathered for prayer, study of the Scriptures, and other public meetings.

[22] 1:39 demon An evil spirit from the devil.

[23] 1:40 leprosy A very bad skin disease. The word in the text has a broad sense, which may include many different types of skin disease.

[24] 1:44 Moses One of the most important leaders of the Israelites during the time of the Old Testament. God used him to give the people his law, which is often called "the law of Moses."

[25] 1:44 Moses commanded See Lev. 14:1-32.

[26] 2:1 Capernaum A town on the northern shore of Lake Galilee where Jesus often spent time and taught.

[27] 2:9-10 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[28] 2:15 tax collector A Jew hired by the Romans to collect taxes. Tax collectors often cheated, and the other Jews hated them.

[29] 2:16 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[30] 2:18 John See "John the Baptizer."

[31] 2:18 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[32] 2:18 fast To live without food for a time of prayer or mourning.

[33] 2:19 bridegroom A man who is getting married.

[34] 2:22 wineskin A bag made from the skin of an animal and used for storing wine.

[35] 2:23 Sabbath Saturday, the seventh day of the week and a special day for Israelites or Jews. By God's command it was set aside as a time for the people to rest and honor God.

[36] 2:24 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[37] 2:25 David King of Israel about 1000 years before Christ.

[38] 2:26 high priest The most important priest and leader of the Israelites or the Jews, God's people under the "old agreement." Under the "new agreement" the high priest for God's people is Jesus Christ. Read Heb. 7:11-8:13.

[39] 2:26 Moses One of the most important leaders of the Israelites during the time of the Old Testament. God used him to give the people his law, which is often called "the law of Moses."

[40] 2:28 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[41] 3:1 synagogue A place in many cities where Jews gathered for prayer, study of the Scriptures, and other public meetings.

[42] 3:2 Sabbath Saturday, the seventh day of the week and a special day for Israelites or Jews. By God's command it was set aside as a time for the people to rest and honor God.

[43] 3:6 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[44] 3:6 Herodians Members of a Jewish political group who were supporters of Herod and cooperated with the Pharisees in finding a way to stop Jesus from teaching.

[45] 3:14 apostle A follower of Jesus chosen to represent him in a special way. During his earthly ministry, Jesus named twelve men as apostles, to whom he gave the specific responsibility and authority to represent him and proclaim his message throughout the world. Later, he appeared to Paul and gave him a similar commission, especially to non-Jewish people. Barnabas, Paul's missionary companion, and James, the brother of Jesus, are also called apostles, as well as several others in the New Testament. Some of these occurrences of the word, however, have the more general sense of "messenger" or "emissary."

[46] 3:15 demon An evil spirit from the devil.

[47] 3:18 Zealot Literally, "Cananaean," an Aramaic word meaning "Zealot" or "Enthusiast." See "Zealot" in the Word List.

[48] 3:22 Satan Literally, "Beelzebul" (the devil).

[49] 3:22 demon An evil spirit from the devil.

[50] 3:23 Satan A name for the devil meaning "the enemy," or "the accuser."

[51] 3:29 Holy Spirit Also called the Spirit of God, the Spirit of Christ, and the Comforter. In union with God and Christ, he does God's work among people in the world.

[52] 4:10 apostle A follower of Jesus chosen to represent him in a special way. During his earthly ministry, Jesus named twelve men as apostles, to whom he gave the specific responsibility and authority to represent him and proclaim his message throughout the world. Later, he appeared to Paul and gave him a similar commission, especially to non-Jewish people. Barnabas, Paul's missionary companion, and James, the brother of Jesus, are also called apostles, as well as several others in the New Testament. Some of these occurrences of the word, however, have the more general sense of "messenger" or "emissary."

[53] 4:11 God's kingdom The "reign" or "rule" of God over all humanity-a time of great blessing for those who submit to him by accepting Jesus as the Christ (appointed king), who represents God's kingdom on earth, being the perfect example of submission to the will of God. When people give control of their lives to Jesus, they become a part of God's kingdom and begin to enjoy the blessings he has promised his people from the beginning. (Note that in Matthew this term also translates the Greek phrase, "the kingdom of the heavens," which was used by Jews as a way to avoid saying the divine name.)

[54] 4:15 Satan A name for the devil meaning "the enemy," or "the accuser."

[55] 4:17 persecution The act of persecuting or being persecuted. See "persecute."

[56] 4:19 produce a crop Meaning to do the good things God wants his people to do.

[57] 4:26 God's kingdom The "reign" or "rule" of God over all humanity-a time of great blessing for those who submit to him by accepting Jesus as the Christ (appointed king), who represents God's kingdom on earth, being the perfect example of submission to the will of God. When people give control of their lives to Jesus, they become a part of God's kingdom and begin to enjoy the blessings he has promised his people from the beginning. (Note that in Matthew this term also translates the Greek phrase, "the kingdom of the heavens," which was used by Jews as a way to avoid saying the divine name.)

[58] 4:30 God's kingdom The "reign" or "rule" of God over all humanity-a time of great blessing for those who submit to him by accepting Jesus as the Christ (appointed king), who represents God's kingdom on earth, being the perfect example of submission to the will of God. When people give control of their lives to Jesus, they become a part of God's kingdom and begin to enjoy the blessings he has promised his people from the beginning. (Note that in Matthew this term also translates the Greek phrase, "the kingdom of the heavens," which was used by Jews as a way to avoid saying the divine name.)

[59] 5:9 Legion This name means very many. A legion was about 6000 men in the Roman army.

[60] 5:16 demon An evil spirit from the devil.

[61] 5:20 Ten Towns Greek, "Decapolis," an area on the east side of Lake Galilee that once had ten main towns.

[62] 5:22 synagogue A place in many cities where Jews gathered for prayer, study of the Scriptures, and other public meetings.

[63] 6:2 Sabbath Saturday, the seventh day of the week and a special day for Israelites or Jews. By God's command it was set aside as a time for the people to rest and honor God.

[64] 6:2 synagogue A place in many cities where Jews gathered for prayer, study of the Scriptures, and other public meetings.

[65] 6:2 miracle An amazing act done by the power of God.

[66] 6:4 prophet A person who speaks a message from God. Many of the books in the Old Testament are messages spoken or written by "the prophets," who were some of those God chose to speak for him. God often used dreams or visions to tell or show his prophets what they should say.

[67] 6:7 apostle A follower of Jesus chosen to represent him in a special way. During his earthly ministry, Jesus named twelve men as apostles, to whom he gave the specific responsibility and authority to represent him and proclaim his message throughout the world. Later, he appeared to Paul and gave him a similar commission, especially to non-Jewish people. Barnabas, Paul's missionary companion, and James, the brother of Jesus, are also called apostles, as well as several others in the New Testament. Some of these occurrences of the word, however, have the more general sense of "messenger" or "emissary."

[68] 6:11 shake the dust off your feet A warning. It would show that they were finished talking to these people.

[69] 6:13 demon An evil spirit from the devil.

[70] 6:13 put olive oil on Olive oil was used like a medicine.

[71] 6:14 Herod (1) Herod I (the Great), king of Judea and all of Palestine (40 b.c.-4 b.c.), Mt. 2:1-22; Lk. 1:5; Acts 23:35. (2) Herod Antipas, son of Herod the Great, tetrarch (ruler) of Galilee and Perea (4 b.c.-39 a.d.), Mt. 14:1-6; Mk. 6:14-22; 8:15; Lk. 3:1, 19; 8:3; 9:7, 9; 13:31; 23:7-15; Acts 4:27; 13:1. (3) Herod Agrippa I, grandson of Herod the Great, king of Palestine (37 a.d.-44 a.d.), Acts 12:1, 6-21.

[72] 6:14 John the Baptizer The man God chose to tell people about Christ's coming and to prepare them by warning them to change their lives and baptizing them (see "baptize") as a sign of their decision to change. Read Mt. 3; Mk. 1:1-11; Lk. 1:5-25, 57-80; 3:1-18.

[73] 6:14 miracle An amazing act done by the power of God.

[74] 6:15 Elijah A very important Israelite leader and prophet who spoke for God during a 25-year period ending about 850 b.c. In the time of Jesus, the Jews were expecting Elijah to come again before the Messiah. See Mal. 4:5-6.

[75] 6:15 prophet A person who speaks a message from God. Many of the books in the Old Testament are messages spoken or written by "the prophets," who were some of those God chose to speak for him. God often used dreams or visions to tell or show his prophets what they should say.

[76] 6:17 Herod (1) Herod I (the Great), king of Judea and all of Palestine (40 b.c.-4 b.c.), Mt. 2:1-22; Lk. 1:5; Acts 23:35. (2) Herod Antipas, son of Herod the Great, tetrarch (ruler) of Galilee and Perea (4 b.c.-39 a.d.), Mt. 14:1-6; Mk. 6:14-22; 8:15; Lk. 3:1, 19; 8:3; 9:7, 9; 13:31; 23:7-15; Acts 4:27; 13:1. (3) Herod Agrippa I, grandson of Herod the Great, king of Palestine (37 a.d.-44 a.d.), Acts 12:1, 6-21.

[77] 6:20 holy Set apart or chosen for a special use; especially, belonging to God or used only for him. Also, pure or perfect, worthy of God and fit for his service. In the New Testament God's people are holy because they have been made pure through Christ and, with the help of the Holy Spirit, keep themselves from sin and live only for God.

[78] 6:24 John the Baptizer The man God chose to tell people about Christ's coming and to prepare them by warning them to change their lives and baptizing them (see "baptize") as a sign of their decision to change. Read Mt. 3; Mk. 1:1-11; Lk. 1:5-25, 57-80; 3:1-18.

[79] 6:29 tomb A grave dug in a wall of rock or a building where a dead body is buried. It can also be a small building made to show respect for important people who had died.

[80] 6:30 apostle A follower of Jesus chosen to represent him in a special way. During his earthly ministry, Jesus named twelve men as apostles, to whom he gave the specific responsibility and authority to represent him and proclaim his message throughout the world. Later, he appeared to Paul and gave him a similar commission, especially to non-Jewish people. Barnabas, Paul's missionary companion, and James, the brother of Jesus, are also called apostles, as well as several others in the New Testament. Some of these occurrences of the word, however, have the more general sense of "messenger" or "emissary."

[81] 7:1 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[82] 7:4 pots Some Greek copies add "and couches."

[83] 7:6 hypocrite A person with wrong motives who pretends to be good.

[84] 7:10 Moses One of the most important leaders of the Israelites during the time of the Old Testament. God used him to give the people his law, which is often called "the law of Moses."

[85] 7:10 Quote from Ex. 20:12; Deut. 5:16.

[86] 7:10 Quote from Ex. 21:17.

[87] 7:15 wrong Literally, "unclean" or "not pure," meaning unacceptable to God. Also in verse 20.

[88] 7:16 Some Greek copies add verse 16: "You people who hear me, listen!"

[89] 7:22 adultery Breaking a marriage promise by committing sexual sin.

[90] 7:26 demon An evil spirit from the devil.

[91] 7:31 Ten Towns Greek, "Decapolis," an area on the east side of Lake Galilee that once had ten main towns.

[92] 8:11 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[93] 8:11 miracle An amazing act done by the power of God.

[94] 8:15 yeast The part of bread dough that makes it rise. Sometimes it is used as a symbol of bad influence.

[95] 8:15 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[96] 8:15 Herod (1) Herod I (the Great), king of Judea and all of Palestine (40 b.c.-4 b.c.), Mt. 2:1-22; Lk. 1:5; Acts 23:35. (2) Herod Antipas, son of Herod the Great, tetrarch (ruler) of Galilee and Perea (4 b.c.-39 a.d.), Mt. 14:1-6; Mk. 6:14-22; 8:15; Lk. 3:1, 19; 8:3; 9:7, 9; 13:31; 23:7-15; Acts 4:27; 13:1. (3) Herod Agrippa I, grandson of Herod the Great, king of Palestine (37 a.d.-44 a.d.), Acts 12:1, 6-21.

[97] 8:28 John the Baptizer The man God chose to tell people about Christ's coming and to prepare them by warning them to change their lives and baptizing them (see "baptize") as a sign of their decision to change. Read Mt. 3; Mk. 1:1-11; Lk. 1:5-25, 57-80; 3:1-18.

[98] 8:28 Elijah A very important Israelite leader and prophet who spoke for God during a 25-year period ending about 850 b.c. In the time of Jesus, the Jews were expecting Elijah to come again before the Messiah. See Mal. 4:5-6.

[99] 8:28 prophet A person who speaks a message from God. Many of the books in the Old Testament are messages spoken or written by "the prophets," who were some of those God chose to speak for him. God often used dreams or visions to tell or show his prophets what they should say.

[100] 8:29 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[101] 8:31 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[102] 8:33 Satan Name for the devil meaning "the enemy." Jesus means that Peter was talking like Satan.

[103] 8:34 cross The wooden post that Romans used to execute criminals. It is a symbol of shame, suffering and death. Just as Jesus was willing to suffer death on a cross for all people, so he asks his followers to be willing to give up their lives for him.

[104] 8:35 Good News In the gospels this is usually the news about the coming of God's kingdom (see above) or its representative Jesus Christ. In other places it is, more specifically, the news or message of God's grace-that he has made a way through Jesus Christ for people to be made right with him and enjoy his blessings now and forever.

[105] 8:38 I Literally, "the Son of Man" (Jesus).

[106] 8:38 glory A word that refers to the special qualities of God. Often it means brightness, referring to the way he appears to people. Sometimes it means majesty or power, referring to a kind of greatness that cannot be compared to anything in human experience. It can also include the ideas of honor, fame or respect, especially in expressions of praise.

[107] 8:38 holy Set apart or chosen for a special use; especially, belonging to God or used only for him. Also, pure or perfect, worthy of God and fit for his service. In the New Testament God's people are holy because they have been made pure through Christ and, with the help of the Holy Spirit, keep themselves from sin and live only for God.

[108] 9:1 God's kingdom The "reign" or "rule" of God over all humanity-a time of great blessing for those who submit to him by accepting Jesus as the Christ (appointed king), who represents God's kingdom on earth, being the perfect example of submission to the will of God. When people give control of their lives to Jesus, they become a part of God's kingdom and begin to enjoy the blessings he has promised his people from the beginning. (Note that in Matthew this term also translates the Greek phrase, "the kingdom of the heavens," which was used by Jews as a way to avoid saying the divine name.)

[109] 9:4 Elijah A very important Israelite leader and prophet who spoke for God during a 25-year period ending about 850 b.c. In the time of Jesus, the Jews were expecting Elijah to come again before the Messiah. See Mal. 4:5-6.

[110] 9:4 Moses One of the most important leaders of the Israelites during the time of the Old Testament. God used him to give the people his law, which is often called "the law of Moses."

[111] 9:9 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[112] 9:11 Elijah must come See Mal. 4:5-6.

[113] 9:12 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[114] 9:29 prayer Some Greek copies have "prayer and fasting."

[115] 9:31 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[116] 9:33 Capernaum A town on the northern shore of Lake Galilee where Jesus often spent time and taught.

[117] 9:35 apostle A follower of Jesus chosen to represent him in a special way. During his earthly ministry, Jesus named twelve men as apostles, to whom he gave the specific responsibility and authority to represent him and proclaim his message throughout the world. Later, he appeared to Paul and gave him a similar commission, especially to non-Jewish people. Barnabas, Paul's missionary companion, and James, the brother of Jesus, are also called apostles, as well as several others in the New Testament. Some of these occurrences of the word, however, have the more general sense of "messenger" or "emissary."

[118] 9:38 demon An evil spirit from the devil.

[119] 9:41 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[120] 9:42 millstone A large, round stone used for grinding grain.

[121] 9:44 Some Greek copies add verse 44, which is the same as verse 48.

[122] 9:46 Some Greek copies add verse 46, which is the same as verse 48.

[123] 9:47 God's kingdom The "reign" or "rule" of God over all humanity-a time of great blessing for those who submit to him by accepting Jesus as the Christ (appointed king), who represents God's kingdom on earth, being the perfect example of submission to the will of God. When people give control of their lives to Jesus, they become a part of God's kingdom and begin to enjoy the blessings he has promised his people from the beginning. (Note that in Matthew this term also translates the Greek phrase, "the kingdom of the heavens," which was used by Jews as a way to avoid saying the divine name.)

[124] 9:49 Some Greek copies add, "and every sacrifice will be salted with salt." In the Old Testament salt was put on sacrifices. This verse could mean that Jesus' followers will be tested by suffering and that they must offer themselves to God as sacrifices.

[125] 10:2 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[126] 10:3 Moses One of the most important leaders of the Israelites during the time of the Old Testament. God used him to give the people his law, which is often called "the law of Moses."

[127] 10:4 "Moses . certificate of divorce" See Deut. 24:1.

[128] 10:6 Quote from Gen. 1:27; 5:2.

[129] 10:8 Quote from Gen. 2:24.

[130] 10:11 adultery Breaking a marriage promise by committing sexual sin.

[131] 10:14 God's kingdom The "reign" or "rule" of God over all humanity-a time of great blessing for those who submit to him by accepting Jesus as the Christ (appointed king), who represents God's kingdom on earth, being the perfect example of submission to the will of God. When people give control of their lives to Jesus, they become a part of God's kingdom and begin to enjoy the blessings he has promised his people from the beginning. (Note that in Matthew this term also translates the Greek phrase, "the kingdom of the heavens," which was used by Jews as a way to avoid saying the divine name.)

[132] 10:19 adultery Breaking a marriage promise by committing sexual sin.

[133] 10:19 Quote from Ex. 20:12-16; Deut. 5:16-20.

[134] 10:23 God's kingdom The "reign" or "rule" of God over all humanity-a time of great blessing for those who submit to him by accepting Jesus as the Christ (appointed king), who represents God's kingdom on earth, being the perfect example of submission to the will of God. When people give control of their lives to Jesus, they become a part of God's kingdom and begin to enjoy the blessings he has promised his people from the beginning. (Note that in Matthew this term also translates the Greek phrase, "the kingdom of the heavens," which was used by Jews as a way to avoid saying the divine name.)

[135] 10:29 Good News In the gospels this is usually the news about the coming of God's kingdom (see above) or its representative Jesus Christ. In other places it is, more specifically, the news or message of God's grace-that he has made a way through Jesus Christ for people to be made right with him and enjoy his blessings now and forever.

[136] 10:30 persecution The act of persecuting or being persecuted. See "persecute."

[137] 10:32 apostle A follower of Jesus chosen to represent him in a special way. During his earthly ministry, Jesus named twelve men as apostles, to whom he gave the specific responsibility and authority to represent him and proclaim his message throughout the world. Later, he appeared to Paul and gave him a similar commission, especially to non-Jewish people. Barnabas, Paul's missionary companion, and James, the brother of Jesus, are also called apostles, as well as several others in the New Testament. Some of these occurrences of the word, however, have the more general sense of "messenger" or "emissary."

[138] 10:33 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[139] 10:38 cup A symbol of suffering. Jesus used the idea of drinking from a cup to mean accepting the suffering he would face in the terrible events that were soon to come. Also in verse 39.

[140] 10:38 baptized with the same baptism Baptism, which usually means to be immersed in water, has a special meaning here-being immersed or "buried" in troubles. Also in verse 39.

[141] 10:45 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[142] 10:47 Son of David A name for the Christ (Messiah) because it was prophesied that he would come from the family of David. See "David."

[143] 11:1 Mount of Olives A hill east of the city of Jerusalem from which one could see the Temple area.

[144] 11:9 Praise Literally, "Hosanna," a Hebrew word used in praying to God for help. Here, it was probably a shout of celebration used in praising God or his Messiah. Also in verse 10.

[145] 11:10 David King of Israel about 1000 years before Christ.

[146] 11:11 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[147] 11:11 apostle A follower of Jesus chosen to represent him in a special way. During his earthly ministry, Jesus named twelve men as apostles, to whom he gave the specific responsibility and authority to represent him and proclaim his message throughout the world. Later, he appeared to Paul and gave him a similar commission, especially to non-Jewish people. Barnabas, Paul's missionary companion, and James, the brother of Jesus, are also called apostles, as well as several others in the New Testament. Some of these occurrences of the word, however, have the more general sense of "messenger" or "emissary."

[148] 11:15 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[149] 11:17 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[150] 11:17 Quote from Isa. 56:7.

[151] 11:17 Quote from Jer. 7:11.

[152] 11:26 Some early Greek copies add verse 26: "But if you don't forgive others, then your Father in heaven will not forgive your sins."

[153] 11:27 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[154] 11:30 baptize To perform the act of baptism. See "baptism."

[155] 11:32 prophet A person who speaks a message from God. Many of the books in the Old Testament are messages spoken or written by "the prophets," who were some of those God chose to speak for him. God often used dreams or visions to tell or show his prophets what they should say.

[156] 12:1 vineyard A garden or farm where grapes are grown.

[157] 12:1 winepress A place dug in rock used to mash grapes and collect the juice for making wine.

[158] 12:10 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[159] 12:10 cornerstone The first and most important stone of a building.

[160] 12:13 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[161] 12:13 Herodians Members of a Jewish political group who were supporters of Herod and cooperated with the Pharisees in finding a way to stop Jesus from teaching.

[162] 12:14 Caesar The name or title given to the emperor (ruler) of Rome.

[163] 12:15 silver coin Or denarius, a Roman coin that was the average pay for one day's work.

[164] 12:18 Sadducees A leading Jewish religious group. They accepted only the first five books of the Old Testament and believed that people will not live again after death.

[165] 12:19 Moses One of the most important leaders of the Israelites during the time of the Old Testament. God used him to give the people his law, which is often called "the law of Moses."

[166] 12:19 if . dead brother See Deut. 25:5, 6.

[167] 12:24 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[168] 12:26 burning bush See Ex. 3:1-12.

[169] 12:26 Abraham The most respected ancestor of the Jewish people. Through him God promised to make a great nation and bless all the people of the earth. Read Gen. 12:1-3.

[170] 12:26 Isaac The son of Abraham and one of the most important ancestors of the Israelites or Jews.

[171] 12:26 Jacob Another name for Israel. (See Gen. 32:22-28.) He was an important ancestor of the Israelites or Jews, the father of twelve sons from whom the twelve tribes of Israel descended.

[172] 12:26 Quote from Ex. 3:6.

[173] 12:28 Sadducees A leading Jewish religious group. They accepted only the first five books of the Old Testament and believed that people will not live again after death.

[174] 12:28 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[175] 12:29 Israel The Israelite nation, descendants of the twelve sons of Jacob, who was also called "Israel."

[176] 12:30 Quote from Deut. 6:4-5.

[177] 12:31 your neighbor Or, "others." Jesus' teaching in Lk. 10:25-37 makes clear that this includes anyone in need.

[178] 12:31 Quote from Lev. 19:18.

[179] 12:34 God's kingdom The "reign" or "rule" of God over all humanity-a time of great blessing for those who submit to him by accepting Jesus as the Christ (appointed king), who represents God's kingdom on earth, being the perfect example of submission to the will of God. When people give control of their lives to Jesus, they become a part of God's kingdom and begin to enjoy the blessings he has promised his people from the beginning. (Note that in Matthew this term also translates the Greek phrase, "the kingdom of the heavens," which was used by Jews as a way to avoid saying the divine name.)

[180] 12:35 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[181] 12:35 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[182] 12:35 David King of Israel about 1000 years before Christ.

[183] 12:36 Holy Spirit Also called the Spirit of God, the Spirit of Christ, and the Comforter. In union with God and Christ, he does God's work among people in the world.

[184] 12:36 control Literally, "feet."

[185] 12:39 synagogue A place in many cities where Jews gathered for prayer, study of the Scriptures, and other public meetings.

[186] 12:41 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[187] 12:41 collection box A special box in the Jewish place for worship where people put their gifts to God.

[188] 13:1 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[189] 13:3 Mount of Olives A hill east of the city of Jerusalem from which one could see the Temple area.

[190] 13:9 synagogue A place in many cities where Jews gathered for prayer, study of the Scriptures, and other public meetings.

[191] 13:10 Good News In the gospels this is usually the news about the coming of God's kingdom (see above) or its representative Jesus Christ. In other places it is, more specifically, the news or message of God's grace-that he has made a way through Jesus Christ for people to be made right with him and enjoy his blessings now and forever.

[192] 13:11 Holy Spirit Also called the Spirit of God, the Spirit of Christ, and the Comforter. In union with God and Christ, he does God's work among people in the world.

[193] 13:14 'the terrible thing . destruction' See Dan. 9:27; 12:11 (also Dan. 11:31).

[194] 13:21 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[195] 13:22 false prophet A person who claims to speak for God but does not really speak God's truth.

[196] 13:22 miracles and wonders Here, amazing acts done by Satan's power.

[197] 13:25 See Isa. 13:10, 34:4.

[198] 13:26 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[199] 13:26 glory A word that refers to the special qualities of God. Often it means brightness, referring to the way he appears to people. Sometimes it means majesty or power, referring to a kind of greatness that cannot be compared to anything in human experience. It can also include the ideas of honor, fame or respect, especially in expressions of praise.

[200] 13:29 time The time Jesus has been talking about when something important will happen. See Lk. 21:31, where Jesus says that this is the time for God's kingdom to come.

[201] 14:1 Passover A very important holy day for the people of Israel and their descendants. They ate a special meal on this day every year to remember that God freed them from slavery in Egypt in the time of Moses. The name may come from the word in Ex. 12:13, 23, 27 that means "to pass over" or "to protect."

[202] 14:1 Festival of Unleavened Bread An important holiday week for the people of Israel and their descendants. In the time of the Old Testament it began the day after Passover, but by New Testament times the two holidays had become one. To prepare for it the people threw out all their yeast and ate only bread without yeast for seven days.

[203] 14:3 leper A person who has leprosy. See "leprosy."

[204] 14:3 alabaster A beautiful kind of stone that can be carved.

[205] 14:3 nard Very expensive oil from the root of the nard plant. It was used as a perfume.

[206] 14:5 a full year's pay Literally, "300 denarii (silver coins)." One coin, a Roman denarius, was the average pay for one day's work.

[207] 14:7 You will . with you See Deut. 15:11.

[208] 14:9 Good News In the gospels this is usually the news about the coming of God's kingdom (see above) or its representative Jesus Christ. In other places it is, more specifically, the news or message of God's grace-that he has made a way through Jesus Christ for people to be made right with him and enjoy his blessings now and forever.

[209] 14:10 apostle A follower of Jesus chosen to represent him in a special way. During his earthly ministry, Jesus named twelve men as apostles, to whom he gave the specific responsibility and authority to represent him and proclaim his message throughout the world. Later, he appeared to Paul and gave him a similar commission, especially to non-Jewish people. Barnabas, Paul's missionary companion, and James, the brother of Jesus, are also called apostles, as well as several others in the New Testament. Some of these occurrences of the word, however, have the more general sense of "messenger" or "emissary."

[210] 14:12 Festival of Unleavened Bread An important holiday week for the people of Israel and their descendants. In the time of the Old Testament it began the day after Passover, but by New Testament times the two holidays had become one. To prepare for it the people threw out all their yeast and ate only bread without yeast for seven days.

[211] 14:12 Passover A very important holy day for the people of Israel and their descendants. They ate a special meal on this day every year to remember that God freed them from slavery in Egypt in the time of Moses. The name may come from the word in Ex. 12:13, 23, 27 that means "to pass over" or "to protect."

[212] 14:17 apostle A follower of Jesus chosen to represent him in a special way. During his earthly ministry, Jesus named twelve men as apostles, to whom he gave the specific responsibility and authority to represent him and proclaim his message throughout the world. Later, he appeared to Paul and gave him a similar commission, especially to non-Jewish people. Barnabas, Paul's missionary companion, and James, the brother of Jesus, are also called apostles, as well as several others in the New Testament. Some of these occurrences of the word, however, have the more general sense of "messenger" or "emissary."

[213] 14:21 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[214] 14:21 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[215] 14:24 agreement A contract or agreement from God to his people. The agreement that God gave his people at Mount Sinai, based on the law of Moses, became the most important for the Israelites or Jews. It replaced or incorporated all other agreements, such as that given earlier to Abraham. In the New Testament it is referred to as the "old" or "first" agreement. After Jesus Christ came and offered his life as payment for the sins of all people, God was able to offer a "new" and "better" agreement based on Christ's sacrifice.

[216] 14:25 God's kingdom The "reign" or "rule" of God over all humanity-a time of great blessing for those who submit to him by accepting Jesus as the Christ (appointed king), who represents God's kingdom on earth, being the perfect example of submission to the will of God. When people give control of their lives to Jesus, they become a part of God's kingdom and begin to enjoy the blessings he has promised his people from the beginning. (Note that in Matthew this term also translates the Greek phrase, "the kingdom of the heavens," which was used by Jews as a way to avoid saying the divine name.)

[217] 14:26 Mount of Olives A hill east of the city of Jerusalem from which one could see the Temple area.

[218] 14:27 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[219] 14:36 Abba An Aramaic word that was used by Jewish children as a name for their fathers.

[220] 14:36 cup A symbol of suffering. Jesus used the idea of drinking from a cup to mean accepting the suffering he would face in the terrible events that were soon to come.

[221] 14:41 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[222] 14:43 apostle A follower of Jesus chosen to represent him in a special way. During his earthly ministry, Jesus named twelve men as apostles, to whom he gave the specific responsibility and authority to represent him and proclaim his message throughout the world. Later, he appeared to Paul and gave him a similar commission, especially to non-Jewish people. Barnabas, Paul's missionary companion, and James, the brother of Jesus, are also called apostles, as well as several others in the New Testament. Some of these occurrences of the word, however, have the more general sense of "messenger" or "emissary."

[223] 14:44 Judas Literally, "the one who handed him over."

[224] 14:47 high priest The most important priest and leader of the Israelites or the Jews, God's people under the "old agreement." Under the "new agreement" the high priest for God's people is Jesus Christ. Read Heb. 7:11-8:13.

[225] 14:49 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[226] 14:49 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[227] 14:53 high priest The most important priest and leader of the Israelites or the Jews, God's people under the "old agreement." Under the "new agreement" the high priest for God's people is Jesus Christ. Read Heb. 7:11-8:13.

[228] 14:58 this man That is, Jesus. His enemies avoided saying his name.

[229] 14:58 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[230] 14:61 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[231] 14:62 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[232] 14:65 prophet A prophet often knows things that are hidden to other people.

[233] 14:66 high priest The most important priest and leader of the Israelites or the Jews, God's people under the "old agreement." Under the "new agreement" the high priest for God's people is Jesus Christ. Read Heb. 7:11-8:13.

[234] 14:68 Some Greek copies do not have "and a rooster crowed."

[235] 15:1 Pilate See "Pontius Pilate."

[236] 15:6 Passover A very important holy day for the people of Israel and their descendants. They ate a special meal on this day every year to remember that God freed them from slavery in Egypt in the time of Moses. The name may come from the word in Ex. 12:13, 23, 27 that means "to pass over" or "to protect."

[237] 15:23 myrrh Sweet-smelling sap from the bark of trees or other plants that was used for perfume and also to prepare bodies for burial. Mixed with wine, it was probably used to relieve pain (Mk. 15:23).

[238] 15:28 Some Greek copies add verse 28: "And this showed the full meaning of the Scripture that says, 'They put him with criminals.'"

[239] 15:29 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[240] 15:32 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[241] 15:32 Israel The Israelite nation, descendants of the twelve sons of Jacob, who was also called "Israel."

[242] 15:34 Quote from Ps. 22:1.

[243] 15:35 He is calling Elijah" The word for "My God" (Eli in Hebrew or Eloi in Aramaic) sounded to the people like the name of Elijah, a famous man who spoke for God about 850 b.c.

[244] 15:38 curtain The curtain that separated the inner sanctuary (Most Holy Place) from the front room in the Tabernacle (See "Holy Tent") and in the Jerusalem Temple. It represented the spiritual barrier that kept people from entering God's presence. When Jesus died, the curtain was torn open (Mt. 27:51), which was a symbol to show that in the heavenly temple the way into God's presence had been opened. See Heb. 10:19, 20.

[245] 15:38 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[246] 15:39 army officer A centurion, a Roman army officer who had authority over 100 soldiers.

[247] 15:42 Sabbath Saturday, the seventh day of the week and a special day for Israelites or Jews. By God's command it was set aside as a time for the people to rest and honor God.

[248] 15:43 God's kingdom The "reign" or "rule" of God over all humanity-a time of great blessing for those who submit to him by accepting Jesus as the Christ (appointed king), who represents God's kingdom on earth, being the perfect example of submission to the will of God. When people give control of their lives to Jesus, they become a part of God's kingdom and begin to enjoy the blessings he has promised his people from the beginning. (Note that in Matthew this term also translates the Greek phrase, "the kingdom of the heavens," which was used by Jews as a way to avoid saying the divine name.)

[249] 15:44 army officer A centurion, a Roman army officer who had authority over 100 soldiers.

[250] 15:46 tomb A grave dug in a wall of rock or a building where a dead body is buried. It can also be a small building made to show respect for important people who had died.

[251] 16:1 Sabbath Saturday, the seventh day of the week and a special day for Israelites or Jews. By God's command it was set aside as a time for the people to rest and honor God.

[252] 16:2 tomb A grave dug in a wall of rock or a building where a dead body is buried. It can also be a small building made to show respect for important people who had died.

[253] 16:8 Some of the oldest Greek copies end the book here. A few later copies have this shorter ending: "But they soon gave all the instructions to Peter and those with him. After that, Jesus himself sent them out from east to west with the holy message that will never change-that people can be saved forever."

[254] 16:9 demon An evil spirit from the devil.

[255] 16:15 Good News In the gospels this is usually the news about the coming of God's kingdom (see above) or its representative Jesus Christ. In other places it is, more specifically, the news or message of God's grace-that he has made a way through Jesus Christ for people to be made right with him and enjoy his blessings now and forever.

[256] 16:16 baptize To perform the act of baptism. See "baptism."

[257] 16:17 demon An evil spirit from the devil.

[258] 16:20 Good News In the gospels this is usually the news about the coming of God's kingdom (see above) or its representative Jesus Christ. In other places it is, more specifically, the news or message of God's grace-that he has made a way through Jesus Christ for people to be made right with him and enjoy his blessings now and forever.

[259] 16:20 miracle An amazing act done by the power of God.

© Copyright 2004 World Bible Translation Center.