Digital Logos Edition
The Life and Ministry of Jesus is a collection of lessons on the life and ministry of Christ, taking a chronological look at His miraculous existence by blending the four Gospels into a single story. Douglas Redford compiles the most insightful, most helpful portions of commentary on certain key passages that have been covered on different occasions throughout the history of the Standard Lesson Commentary. The format for each chapter has been kept purposefully simple. Under the title of each chapter is a list of the passages to be examined within that chapter. Each passage is then studied under two main headings: “Establishing the Groundwork” and “Examining the Text.” The “Groundwork” section aims to place a passage in its proper context, providing background information about the significant people, places, and events. For example, in the first volume dealing with Christ’s life, the “Groundwork” portion explains where in Jesus’ life and ministry the passage occurred, and it also seeks to provide a smooth transition between passages so that the flow of thought is maintained. The “Examining the Text” portion presents a verse-by-verse explanation of the Biblical text being considered. In some cases, two or more verses will be grouped together (for example, verses that describe something that took place within one of Jesus’ parables).
“the Jewish leaders, the words on the sign sounded more like a tribute than an accusation. They tried to persuade Pila” (Page 289)
“three questions, Jesus issued a stirring tribute to John” (Page 148)
“The gentle appearance of the Messiah-King as he came to Jerusalem riding on a donkey was meant to symbolize the peace that he would establish on the earth. In contrast, for royalty to parade on a white horse symbolized military might and a readiness to do battle with the enemy—a most appropriate symbol for Jesus’ second coming (Revelation 19:11).” (Page 240)
“Matthew’s joy at being accepted by Jesus knew no bounds, and he wanted others who faced constant scorn to have a taste of that acceptance.” (Page 129)
“emphasize with his use of Word that God is a God who communicates, who reveals, who speaks to his creation.” (Page 17)