The early life of Jesus is a topic of great interest to many people around the world, especially Christians. However, there are some discrepancies in the chronology of Jesus’ early life that can be confusing and difficult to understand. In this article, we will explore what is the correct chronology of the early life of Jesus.
Birth and Childhood
The most widely accepted account of Jesus’ birth and childhood is found in the New Testament. According to this account, Jesus was born in Bethlehem to Mary and Joseph. The birth occurred during the reign of King Herod the Great, who ruled Judea from 37 to 4 BC.
After his birth, Jesus was visited by shepherds who were told by angels about his arrival. Later on, he was also visited by three wise men who had followed a star to find him.
When Jesus was still an infant, his parents fled with him to Egypt because Herod had ordered the execution of all male infants in Bethlehem. They returned to Nazareth when it was safe for them to do so.
Early Ministry
The next major event in Jesus’ life was his baptism by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. This event marked the beginning of his public ministry and his identification as the Son of God.
After his baptism, Jesus spent 40 days in the desert fasting and being tempted by Satan. He then began preaching throughout Galilee and performing miracles such as healing the sick and feeding large crowds with only a few loaves of bread and fish.
Teachings and Miracles
As Jesus traveled around preaching and teaching about God’s love for humanity, he continued to perform miracles such as healing people with various illnesses, casting out demons from possessed individuals, and even raising people from the dead.
One particularly significant moment in Jesus’ ministry occurred when he went up onto a mountaintop with his disciples and gave what is now known as the Sermon on the Mount. In this sermon, he taught about humility, love for others, and the importance of following God’s laws.
Death and Resurrection
The final events in Jesus’ life are perhaps the most well-known. Jesus was arrested by Roman soldiers and sentenced to death by crucifixion. He died on a Friday, which is now celebrated as Good Friday by Christians around the world.
However, three days later, Jesus rose from the dead in what is known as the Resurrection. This event is considered by many to be proof of Jesus’ divinity and an affirmation of his teachings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there may be some discrepancies in the chronology of Jesus’ early life, there are certain events that are generally accepted as fact by most Christians. These events include his birth in Bethlehem, his baptism by John the Baptist, his teachings and miracles throughout Galilee, and his death and resurrection. By understanding these key moments in Jesus’ life, we can gain a deeper appreciation for his teachings and their relevance to our lives today.