I went to Israel with Moody Bible Institute a few years ago. I didn’t know what to expect when I agreed to go. How could being in the land where the Bible took place enrich a book full of such spiritually enriching truths. I thought that the geographical setting would be somewhat underwhelming. How wrong I was! Being in the places where the stories of the Bible took place gave me a refreshed love for the narrative.
My church, The Chapel ( www.chapel.org ) is focusing on the town of Capernaum. I didn’t know which book of the Bible to study after 1 Corinthians because (a) I delegated leadership of the Skinner Small Group whilst we do a series called The Stranger which is rooted in Capernaum (b) A number of the gospels talk about Capernaum.
Which gospel do you think that we should study?
Whilst you are thinking that one over, let’s look at Capernaum.
Capernaum
Synagogue
Grinding Stone
Town of Capernaum
Peter's House
St. Peter's Fish
Lake Galilee Fishing Boat
What do these pictures show you about the town where Jesus chose to live?
I vote to study Luke next – thanks, Peter!
When we went to Israel, I think I expected some sort of “spiritual high.” And there were a few of those moments. Worshipping on a boat on the Sea of Galilee. Communion at the garden tomb. Watching Peter baptize members of our bus in the Jordan River.
However, rather than a “high” experience, it was more of a grounding experience. Literally and spiritually. It placed my faith firmly in the dust and hills and history of that place. I hope everyone has the opportunity to go sometime.
As far as a next book to study, I think I would vote for Matthew.