"...and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way." Luke 2:9-12 KJV

<p>Illustration of three kings, or maji, worshiping Jesus and bringing him gifts. Jesus is sitting on Mary's lap. Two kings wearing crowns stand in front of Mary while a third, without a crown, kneels. Two sheep are asleep in the corner. Joseph and a donkey stand behind a low fence. Servants and a camel stand off to the side.The star in the east shines on to the scene.

Kings from the East Worship the Baby Jesus

"...and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where…

"And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger." Luke 2: 15-16 KJV
<p>Illustration of the shepherds arriving at the stable where Jesus is lying in a manger. Mary kneels next to him and Joseph stands at the manger's side. A bull and calf are curled up in the foreground. The shepherds, young and old, arrive through an opening in a low wall and kneel before the manger. One shepherd has removed his hat and laid down his staff.

The Shepherds Arrive to Worship the Baby Jesus

"And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to…

Jesus sits at the right hand of God and a dove, the Holy Spirit, hovers above them. Gathered around them are the apostles, Moses, and the Virgin Mary. There are also several angels and cherubim surrounding and within the group.

The Apostles, Jesus, God, the Holy Spirit, and the Blessed Virgin Mary in Heaven

Jesus sits at the right hand of God and a dove, the Holy Spirit, hovers above them. Gathered around…

"And Jesus when he was baptized, went up straightway from the water: and lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove, and coming upon him; and lo, a voice out of the heavens, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." Matthew 3:16-17 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus kneeling next to John the Baptist. A ray of light, the spirit of God, descends from a dove onto Jesus' head. There is a cloud behind the dove. John the Baptist, dressed in animal skins and holding a staff with a banner that reads "Agnus", is standing next to Jesus.

The Spirit of God Descends on Jesus When He is Baptized by John the Baptist

"And Jesus when he was baptized, went up straightway from the water: and lo, the heavens were opened…

"And they were bringing unto him little children, that he should touch them: and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was moved with indignation, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me; forbid them not: for to such belongeth the kingdom of God." Mark 10:13-14 ASV
Illustration of Jesus sitting against a tree with a baby on his lap. Little children approach him and he pats one on the head. Two women sit on the ground, holding children. Two men, probably disciples, stand nearby. A small town is in the background.

Jesus Blesses the Little Children When They are Brought to Him

"And they were bringing unto him little children, that he should touch them: and the disciples rebuked…

"And they were bringing unto him little children, that he should touch them: and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was moved with indignation, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me; forbid them not: for to such belongeth the kingdom of God." Mark 10:13-14 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus, sitting on a rock, with a little child in his lap and several more clamoring to get to him. Several women usher the children to Jesus. They are carrying children in their arms. Three of Jesus' disciples watch from the side.

Jesus, a Friend to the Little Children

"And they were bringing unto him little children, that he should touch them: and the disciples rebuked…

A border with various illustrations from the Passion of Christ, including carrying the cross, washing the disciples' feet, and being laid in a tomb. A man, presumably Luke, who is often portrayed holding a book, is standing on the left side of the border holding a quill and book. The Blessed Virgin Mary is standing on the right side of the border with her arms folded on her chest. This illustration appears at the beginning of the book of Acts in a Martin Luther translation of the New Testament.

Border Illustrating the Passion of Christ

A border with various illustrations from the Passion of Christ, including carrying the cross, washing…

"And there followed him a great multitude of the people, and of women who bewailed and lamented him. But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children." Luke 23:27-28 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus carrying his cross. He is turned to the women who are weeping and following the procession. His arm is raised to them as he comforts them. A soldier walks before the cross and a soldier on horseback rides alongside. Simon takes the rope holding the cross and prepares to take the burden from Jesus. The walls of the city can be seen in the distance.

Jesus Carries His Cross and Comforts the Women Following Him

"And there followed him a great multitude of the people, and of women who bewailed and lamented him.…

"They took Jesus therefore: and he went out, bearing the cross for himself, unto the place called The place of a skull, which is called in Hebrew, Golgotha..." John 19:17 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus on his hands and knees with the cross on his back. A soldier is standing over him with a whip raised over his head. Simon of Cyrene is in the process of taking the cross from Jesus. Women have fallen on their knees in front of Jesus.

Jesus Falls While Carrying His Cross

"They took Jesus therefore: and he went out, bearing the cross for himself, unto the place called The…

"And after these things Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked of Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took away his body.

39 And there came also Nicodemus, he who at the first came to him by night, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds." John 19:38-39 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus lying on the ground as his mother, Mary, weeps over him. Joseph of Arimathaea is removing the crown of thorns and Nicodemus is mourning behind Jesus' head. Three other women are also on their knees, mourning Jesus' death. The ground is wet with Jesus' blood.

Jesus is Taken Down from the Cross and is Attended by Mary, Joseph of Arimathaea, and Nicodemus

"And after these things Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the…

"So they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury. Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new tomb wherein was never man yet laid. There then because of the Jews' Preparation (for the tomb was nigh at hand) they laid Jesus." John 19:40-42 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus' body being laid in the tomb after being wrapped in linens and anointed with oil and perfume. One man lowers Jesus' upper body into the tomb, while another holds a torch. Cloth is laid underneath him and flows down the sides of the sepulchre. A woman drapes herself over the body. His mother, Mary, and two other women huddle in the corner.

Jesus' Body is Prepared for Burial and Laid in a Sepulchre

"So they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as the custom of the…

"this man went to Pilate, and asked for the body of Jesus. And he took it down, and wrapped it in a linen cloth, and laid him in a tomb that was hewn in stone, where never man had yet lain." Luke 23:52-53 ASV
<p>Illustration of John, Nicodemus, Mary Magdalene, the Virgin Mary, and Joseph of Arimathea placing the body of Jesus into an open tomb.

The Body of Jesus is Placed in a Tomb

"this man went to Pilate, and asked for the body of Jesus. And he took it down, and wrapped it in a…

"and he took the seven loaves and the fishes; and he gave thanks and brake, and gave to the disciples, and the disciples to the multitudes. And they all ate, and were filled: and they took up that which remained over of the broken pieces, seven baskets full. And they that did eat were four thousand men, besides women and children." Matthew 15:36-38 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus handing out bread and fish from a basket being held by a young boy. The disciples are handing out food in the background. Numerous men, women, and children sit and stand around eating. There are several trees and mountains in the background.

Jesus Feeds More Than Four Thousand People with Seven Loaves and Two Fishes

"and he took the seven loaves and the fishes; and he gave thanks and brake, and gave to the disciples,…

"...behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son." Matthew 2:13-15
<p>Illustration of Joseph leading a donkey that is carrying Mary as she holds baby Jesus in her arms. They are travelling on a road made of stone and Joseph is carrying a staff. The donkey is laden with a basket and small container. The city of Bethlehem is in the background. An angel came to Joseph while he was sleeping and told him to flee from Herod who had ordered all of the infants in the area be killed.

Joseph Leads Mary and Jesus on the Road to Egypt as They Flee from King Herod

"...behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young…

"39 And he went forward a little, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass away from me: nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt. And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?" Matthew 26:39-40 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus praying, on his knees, hands clasped, as an angel emerges from the clouds, carrying the cross. Peter, James, and John are sleeping nearby. Soldiers are marching out of the city gate, towards the garden, in the background.

Jesus Prays in the Garden of Gethsemane - Peter, James, and John Fall Asleep

"39 And he went forward a little, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, My Father, if it be possible,…

"And immediately, while he yet spake, cometh Judas, one of the twelve, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. And he that betrayed him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he; take him, and lead him away safely. And as soon as he was come, he goeth straightway to him, and saith, Master, master; and kissed him." Mark 14:43-45 KJV

Judas Betraying Jesus with a Kiss

"And immediately, while he yet spake, cometh Judas, one of the twelve, and with him a great multitude…

"Again therefore he asked them, Whom seek ye? And they said, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus answered, I told you that I am he; if therefore ye seek me, let these go their way: that the word might be fulfilled which he spake, Of those whom thou hast given me I lost not one. Simon Peter therefore having a sword drew it, and struck the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. Now the servant's name was Malchus." John 18:7-10 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus' betrayal. Judas leans close to Jesus, having just kissed his cheek. The people, priests, and soldiers gather around, holding swords and torches. One man is tying Jesus' leg with rope. Others chase the disciples away. Peter is in the foreground with Malchus down on the ground. Peter's sword is raised.

Judas Betrays Jesus and Peter Cuts Off the Ear of Malchus

"Again therefore he asked them, Whom seek ye? And they said, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus answered, I told…

"But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he was moved with compassion, and came to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring on them oil and wine; and he set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him." Luke 10:33-34 ASV
<p>Illustration of a man lying in the road, his head bound and covered by a cloth. A Samaritan kneels over him, pouring ointment in his wounds. He is wearing a head covering and a hat. His donkey is standing behind him and is laden with his things. Two men can be seen walking away in the distance.

A Good Samaritan Helps a Man Who Was Attacked on the Road

"But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he was moved with…

"They said therefore unto him, How then were thine eyes opened? He answered, The man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to Siloam, and wash: so I went away and washed, and I received sight." John 9:10-11 ASV
<p>Illustration of a blind man washing the clay from his eyes at the Pool of Siloam. There is a fountain with a stream of water coming out of it. The blind man is kneeling and holding his walking stick.

A Blind Man Washes His Eyes in the Pool of Siloam

"They said therefore unto him, How then were thine eyes opened? He answered, The man that is called…

"When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and anointed his eyes with the clay, and said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam (which is by interpretation, Sent). He went away therefore, and washed, and came seeing." John 9:6-7 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus leaning over and touching the blind man's eyes. The blind man is sitting on a rock under a tree, holding on to a walking stick. Several men are standing behind Jesus.

Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind

"When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and anointed his eyes…

"for an angel of the Lord went down at certain seasons into the pool, and troubled the water: whosoever then first after the troubling of the waters stepped in was made whole, with whatsoever disease he was holden. And a certain man was there, who had been thirty and eight years in his infirmity. When Jesus saw him lying, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wouldest thou be made whole?" John 5:4-6 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus healing a man in one of the five porches at the pool at Bethesda. The lame man is reclining and Jesus is praying over him. Several men, including disciples, stand around and watch the healing. On the other side of a wall, the pool is visible and an angel is hovering over it and reaching a staff down into the waters. A woman with a child waits near the pool. A man walking with crutches wades into the pool. A woman places a baby into the pool in the background.

Jesus Heals a Paralytic Man at the Pool at Bethesda While an Angel Troubles the Waters

"for an angel of the Lord went down at certain seasons into the pool, and troubled the water: whosoever…

"And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go and show yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, with a loud voice glorifying God; and he fell upon his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan." Luke 17:14-16 ASV
<p>Illustration of the healed Samaritan leper, on his knees, thanking Jesus. His staff is leaning on his shoulder. Jesus gestures to him to go and be healed. Two disciples are standing behind Jesus.

Jesus Heals Ten Lepers and Only the Samaritan Returns to Give Thanks

"And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go and show yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass,…

"When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and anointed his eyes with the clay, and said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam (which is by interpretation, Sent). He went away therefore, and washed, and came seeing." John 9:6-7 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus healing a blind man. Jesus is reaching out and touching the eyes of the man. The man is kneeling in front of Jesus and the disciples. Three disciples are standing with Jesus. Two Pharisees stand in the background. There is a large column on the left.

Jesus Puts Clay on a Blind Man's Eyes and He Is Healed

"When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and anointed his eyes…

"And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, who stood afar off: and they lifted up their voices, saying, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go and show yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, with a loud voice glorifying God; and he fell upon his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan." Luke 17:12-16 ASV
<p>Illustration of a man on his knees at the feet of Jesus. A group of men can be seen standing in the background.

One of Ten Healed Lepers Returns to Praise Jesus

"And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, who stood afar off:…

"And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, who stood afar off: and they lifted up their voices, saying, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go and show yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, with a loud voice glorifying God; and he fell upon his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan." Luke 17:12-16 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus speaking to ten lepers. One is on his knees. His head is glowing and he is pointing with his left hand.

Jesus Speaks to Ten Lepers

"And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, who stood afar off:…

"And when he was entered into a boat, his disciples followed him. And behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the boat was covered with the waves: but he was asleep." Matthew 8:23-24 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus asleep in the bow of a boat while a tempest rages around him. His disciples are in the boat with him. Four disciples pray to Jesus, the rest are trying to keep the boat from sinking in the waves. The boat has one mast with a collapsed sail.

Jesus Sleeps Through a Storm at Sea

"And when he was entered into a boat, his disciples followed him. And behold, there arose a great tempest…

"And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the apostles with him. And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer:" Luke 22:14-15 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus sitting at a table with the twelve disciples at Passover. Jesus is at the center and the disciples are gathered around him. The men are not pictured as sitting all on the same side of the table.

Jesus Communes with His Disciples at the Last Supper

"And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the apostles with him. And he said unto them, With desire…

"So when he had washed their feet, and taken his garments, and sat down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you?" John 13:12 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus, kneeling at his disciples' feet, washing them over a basin. The disciples hands are open in a questioning gesture. Other disciples sit at the banquet table and watch the scene. Judas looms in the shadows in the background. Arched windows and drapery decorate the room.

Jesus Washes the Disciples' Feet to Show the Importance of Baptism and Penance

"So when he had washed their feet, and taken his garments, and sat down again, he said unto them, Know…

"Then he poureth water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded. So he cometh to Simon Peter. He saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt understand hereafter. Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me." John 13:5-8 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus kneeling at Simon Peter's feet and washing his feet with a basin and towel. Simon Peter's left hand is raised. The other disciples are watching in the background.

Jesus Washes the Feet of the Simon Peter at the Last Supper

"Then he poureth water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with…

"And when he had thus spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth. He that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with grave-clothes; and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go." John 11:43-44 ASV
<p>Illustration of Lazarus rising from his tomb. Jesus is standing over him with raised arm. Lazarus is bound in linens. Several people are gathered behind Jesus.

Jesus Resurrects Lazarus of Bethany

"And when he had thus spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth. He that was dead came…

"And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at the Lord's feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving; and she came up to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister did leave me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. But the Lord answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art anxious and troubled about many things: but one thing is needful: for Mary hath chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her." Luke 10:39-42 ASV
<p>Illustration of Mary sitting at Jesus feet, listening to him speak, while her sister Martha runs around the house, serving people. Martha is on the left, holding a tray. Three men and one woman stand behind columns and listen to Jesus. There is a small table with cups and a pitcher on it.

Jesus Tells Martha to Stop Worrying and Be More like Mary

"And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at the Lord's feet, and heard his word. But Martha was…

"And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at the Lord's feet, and heard his word." Luke 10:39 ASV
<p>Illustration of Mary, Martha's sister, kneels at Jesus' feet and listens to him speak. Jesus is sitting on a bench against a wall and a woman can be seen working in a kitchen in the background.

Mary Sits and Listens at Jesus' Feet

"And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at the Lord's feet, and heard his word." Luke 10:39…

"Mary therefore took a pound of ointment of pure nard, very precious, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odor of the ointment." John 12:3 ASV
<p>Illustration of Mary anointing Jesus' feet with perfume. The disciples stand in the background, some looking irritated.

Mary Anoints Jesus at Bethany

"Mary therefore took a pound of ointment of pure nard, very precious, and anointed the feet of Jesus,…

"Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the Wise-men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the male children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the borders thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had exactly learned of the Wise-men." Matthew 2:16 ASV
<p>Illustration of Herod's soldiers murdering baby boys as their mothers weep. One soldier wrenches a boy away from his mother as a young girl tries to stop him. Mothers cry over and hold their murdered babies. The city walls and stairways are visible in the background.

The Slaughter of the Innocents - Herod Has All of the Baby Boys Killed

"Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the Wise-men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and…

"And when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Put out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. And Simon answered and said, Master, we toiled all night, and took nothing: but at thy word I will let down the nets. And when they had done this, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes; and their nets were breaking..." Luke 5:4-6 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus standing in a boat as the disciples catch a multitude of fish. There are two boats with two disciples in each. The boats and nets are overflowing with fish. Several people can be seen watching from the shore in the background.

The Miraculous Catch of Fish - Jesus Fills the Disciples' Boats with Fish

"And when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Put out into the deep, and let down your nets for…

"Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: the same came unto him by night, and said to him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that thou doest, except God be with him. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except one be born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God." John 3:1-3 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus sitting in bed and Nicodemus standing next to him. Jesus has his left arm raised. Nicodemus is clothed in robes.

Jesus Teaches Nicodemus about the Kingdom of Heaven

"Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: the same came unto him…

"Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: the same came unto him by night, and said to him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that thou doest, except God be with him. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except one be born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God." John 3:1-3 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus sitting on the edge of a bed and Nicodemus sitting at a table at night. Jesus is gesturing towards heaven and Nicodemus is leaning in intently. Curtains drape the room behind them.

Jesus Teaches Nicodemus

"Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: the same came unto him…

"Another parable set he before them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man that sowed good seed in his field: but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares also among the wheat, and went away." Matthew 13:24-25 ASV
<p>Illustration of a man and his servants sleeping under a tree after having sown a field with good wheat. The man's enemy walks through the field (left) and tosses bad seed, tares, in with the wheat. An axe, a pitcher, and a bag of seed is sitting in the foreground.

The Parable of the Tares - the Enemy Sows Bad Seed Among the Wheat

"Another parable set he before them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man that sowed…

"And he said unto them, Take heed, and keep yourselves from all covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth." Luke 12:15 ASV
<p>Illustration of a greedy man, lying on a bed and watching over a box full of coins. An angel hovers in the window, reaching out to the man and showing him an hourglass.

A Greedy Man Guards His Treasure

"And he said unto them, Take heed, and keep yourselves from all covetousness: for a man's life consisteth…

"And when there had been much questioning, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Brethren, ye know that a good while ago God made choice among you, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel, and believe. And God, who knoweth the heart, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Spirit, even as he did unto us; and he made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith. Now therefore why make ye trial of God, that ye should put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that we shall be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in like manner as they." Acts 15:7-11 ASV
<p>Illustration of Peter, standing before the rest of the apostles, explaining to them that Jesus made no distinction between Jew and Gentile and that all should be saved by their belief and not by their adherence to the old law. The apostles and the ancients at the council decided that circumcision would no longer be required.

Peter and the Apostles Decide Not to Impose Circumcision on Christians

"And when there had been much questioning, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Brethren, ye know that…

Peter preaches to a group of people of different ages, genders, and backgrounds. There are men, children, and women, There are soldiers, common men, Jews, and Gentiles. Peter is informing them that all can become Christians through baptism and the Holy Spirit.

Peter Preaches to Jews and Gentiles

Peter preaches to a group of people of different ages, genders, and backgrounds. There are men, children,…

"And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jonah: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father who is in heaven." Matthew 16:16-17 ASV
<p>Illustration of Peter kneeling before Jesus. Jesus is telling Peter that he will build his church upon Peter and Peter will have the keys to heaven. Jesus is handing Peter a key with a cross on it. Six other disciples are standing to the side, watching. The dome of St. Peter's Basilica glows in the distant background. This scene is commonly referred to as the Confession of Peter.

Peter Publicly Professes that Jesus is Christ, the Son of God

"And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered…

Illustration of Jesus preaching to a crowd of people. One man is sitting on the ground. Jesus' left arm is lifted and he is standing in front of a large tree.

Jesus Preaches to a Crowd

Illustration of Jesus preaching to a crowd of people. One man is sitting on the ground. Jesus' left…

"On that day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side. And there were gathered unto him great multitudes, so that he entered into a boat, and sat; and all the multitude stood on the beach. And he spake to them many things in parables..." Matthew 13:1-3 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus sitting in the stern of a small fishing boat, reaching out to the people on shore and teaching in parables. A man sits in the bow on a fishing net. Several people stand on shore. One woman holds a baby and has a small child standing beside her. Another woman is sitting on the shore. There are mountains in the background and a single tree in the center of the image.

Jesus Teaches the Multitude on the Shore While He Sits in a Boat

"On that day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side. And there were gathered unto him…

"And seeing the multitudes, he went up into the mountain: and when he had sat down, his disciples came unto him: and he opened his mouth and taught them..." Matthew 5:1-2 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus sitting on a mountainside in front of a multitude of people. His arms are raised as he preaches. A sheep is sleeping and a goat is feeding in the foreground. Jesus is teaching about the Beatitudes.

Jesus Teaches the Sermon on the Mount, the Beatitudes

"And seeing the multitudes, he went up into the mountain: and when he had sat down, his disciples came…

"And when Jesus heard it, he said unto him, One thing thou lackest yet: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me." Luke 18:22 ASV
<p>Illustration of the rich man walking away after Jesus told him that in order to go to heaven he has to sell everything, give to the poor, and follow Jesus. Jesus sits under a curtained window and is looking at a man kneeling next to him. There is another man sitting on a low wall and a man standing nearby with a staff. The rich man can be identified by his decorated robe. He looks downcast as he walks away.

Jesus Tells the Rich Man to Sell All of His Possessions, Give to the Poor, and Follow Him

"And when Jesus heard it, he said unto him, One thing thou lackest yet: sell all that thou hast, and…

"And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel." Luke 2: 25-32 KJV <p>Illustration of Simeon holding Jesus in his arms and prophesying. Mary and Joseph stand next to him. Joseph is holding a cage with two turtle doves inside. A prophetess named Anna stands next to Simeon. A domed arch frames Simeon. Onlookers stand to either side.

Simeon Prophesies When Jesus is Presented at the Temple

"And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout,…

"And he arose, and came to his father. But while he was yet afar off, his father saw him, and was moved with compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him." Luke 15:20 ASV
<p>Illustration of a son returning home to his family. He has fallen on his knees in front of his father. His mother emerges from the home. A man with a pick-ax over his shoulder and a shepherd stand nearby. A dog lingers behind the son.

The Prodigal Son Returns to His Family

"And he arose, and came to his father. But while he was yet afar off, his father saw him, and was moved…

"Now when he drew near to the gate of the city, behold, there was carried out one that was dead, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her. And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not. And he came nigh and touched the bier: and the bearers stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise." Luke 7:12-14 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus touching the hand of the dead son of a widow at Nain. The young man is lying in a coffin with his mother and family around him as they carry him through the streets. Two men are kneeling at the foot of the coffin, lowering it to the ground. Jesus holds the hand of the dead man. The town walls frame the image.

Jesus Raises the Son of the Widow of Nain

"Now when he drew near to the gate of the city, behold, there was carried out one that was dead, the…

"Now they were Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James: and the other women with them told these things unto the apostles. And these words appeared in their sight as idle talk; and they disbelieved them. But Peter arose, and ran unto the tomb; and stooping and looking in, he seeth the linen cloths by themselves; and he departed to his home, wondering at that which was come to pass." Luke 24:10-12
<p>Illustration of Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and Peter marveling at Jesus' death linens in his empty tomb. The entrance to the cave can be seen behind the group.

Peter Finds the Tomb of Jesus Empty

"Now they were Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James: and the other women with them…

"And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus.

4 And it came to pass, while they were perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel:

5 and as they were affrighted and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead?" Luke 24:3-5 ASV
<p>Illustration of three women finding an empty tomb when they come to see Jesus. One woman carries a jar. Another leans slightly over the empty tomb. Two angels stand at the end of the tomb, one holding an olive branch. The opening to the cave is uncovered and the lid to the tomb is off.

Mary Magdalene, Mary the Mother of James, and Salome Find Jesus' Empty Tomb

"And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 And it came to pass, while they were…

"And behold, two of them were going that very day to a village named Emmaus, which was threescore furlongs from Jerusalem. And they communed with each other of all these things which had happened. And it came to pass, while they communed and questioned together, that Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. But their eyes were holden that they should not know him." Luke 24:13-16
<p>Jesus walks with two disciples, one named Cleopas, on the road to Emmaus. Two of the men hold walking sticks. There are two palm trees along the road.

Jesus Appears on the Road to Emmaus

"And behold, two of them were going that very day to a village named Emmaus, which was threescore furlongs…

"And it came to pass, when he had sat down with them to meat, he took the bread and blessed; and breaking it he gave to them. And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight." Luke 24:30-31 ASV
<p>Jesus sits at a table with two men. He is glowing and one man is throwing his hands up in surprise. There are three plates and bread on the table. The men are Cleopas and another disciple who traveled on the road to Emmaus with Jesus.

Jesus Appears to Cleopas and Another Disciple at Dinner

"And it came to pass, when he had sat down with them to meat, he took the bread and blessed; and breaking…

"And afterward he was manifested unto the eleven themselves as they sat at meat; and he upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them that had seen him after he was risen." Mark 16:14 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus standing just inside a room, clothed in a robe over his shoulder, left hand raised, head glowing. Ten of the disciples sit and stand around the room and at a table. One of these has a book in front of him on the bench. One disciple kneels at Jesus' feet and stares up at him. One disciple peers through a curtain at the back of the room

Jesus Appears to Eleven of the Disciples

"And afterward he was manifested unto the eleven themselves as they sat at meat; and he upbraided them…

"Now when he was risen early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons." Mark 16:9 ASV
<p>Illustration of Mary, fallen on her knees, at Jesus' feet as He rounds a corner and walks towards her. Two angels holding olive branches, sit behind her, at the entrance to the empty tomb. Rays of light emanate from Jesus' head. He is carrying the banner of the cross.

Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene After His Resurrection

"Now when he was risen early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from…

"And they constrained him, saying, Abide with us; for it is toward evening, and the day is now far spent. And he went in to abide with them. And it came to pass, when he had sat down with them to meat, he took the bread and blessed; and breaking it he gave to them. And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight." Luke 24:29-31 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus sitting at a table with two disciples. He is handing them some bread and they are looking at him in awe as they realize he is their risen Lord. One is kneeling, the other is leaning towards Jesus. There is a goblet on the table and a window behind the table. An arch with floral decorations frames the scene.

Jesus Appears to Two of His Disciples and Has Dinner with Them at the Town of Emmaus

"And they constrained him, saying, Abide with us; for it is toward evening, and the day is now far spent.…

"And when he had said this, he showed unto them his hands and his side. The disciples therefore were glad, when they saw the Lord." John 20:20 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus showing his pierced hands to the disciples. One disciple is kneeling, while six others stand behind him.

Jesus Shows His Wounds to the Disciples

"And when he had said this, he showed unto them his hands and his side. The disciples therefore were…

"Jesus answered and said unto unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water." John 4:10 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus sitting on a stone bench next to a well. His left arm is raised. A woman at the well has drawn up the pail. Several people are coming up the road towards the well. The ruins of a wall stand in the background.

Jesus Offers Living Water to the Woman at the Well

"Jesus answered and said unto unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to…

"and Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat thus by the well. It was about the sixth hour. There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink." John 4:6-7 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus speaking to a Samaritan woman at a well. Jesus is standing, a halo around his head, and the woman is sitting on the edge of the well, resting her arm on a water pot. A group of men stand in the background, pointing at Jesus. Two palm trees and some cacti are growing next to the well.

Jesus Speaks to the Samaritan Woman at the Well

"and Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat thus by the well.…

"And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan, and was led in the Spirit in the wilderness during forty days, being tempted of the devil..." Luke 4:1-2 ASV
<p>Illustration of Jesus standing on a hill with the devil, overlooking a city. Jesus has a halo behind his head and his left arm is lifted. The devil appears as a man with horns, wearing a toga-like robe and leaning towards Jesus.

The Temptation of Jesus by Satan

"And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan, and was led in the Spirit in the wilderness…