The Christ Commission Ch 5

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Questions and Answers

What initial impression did Matthias have of James?

He was disappointed by James's unimpressive appearance. (correct)

He viewed James as a wise and learned individual.

He found James to be a powerful and charismatic figure.

He believed that James was busy with important matters.

What physical attributes describe James?

Short with unkempt hair and a frayed tunic. (correct)

Tall stature with well-groomed features.

Average height with meticulously styled hair.

Robust build with a clean-shaven face.

How did James respond to Matthias upon their first meeting?

By giving him advice on his historical writing.

By questioning Matthias about his work.

With a brief embrace and a cordial greeting. (correct)

With indifference and no engagement.

What does Matthias realize about James despite initial misconceptions?

James was both powerful and knowledgeable about history. Signup and view all the answers

What indicates James's level of exhaustion during the encounter?

He frequently blinked and had bloodshot eyes. Signup and view all the answers

What was James' response to Matthias' inquiries about Jesus?

He agreed to share his knowledge and sit down to talk. Signup and view all the answers

How did James describe their family's life while growing up?

They were happy and had enough to eat despite being materially poor. Signup and view all the answers

What did James mention about the family's profession?

Their father was a builder who worked with wood and stone. Signup and view all the answers

What was James' perception of how people in Jerusalem viewed the Galileans?

They thought nothing good could come from Galilee. Signup and view all the answers

At what age did formal education begin for children in their community?

Six years old. Signup and view all the answers

What primary responsibility did Jesus assume after his father's death?

He assumed the role of head of the family. Signup and view all the answers

How did Jesus interact with the infirmities or diseases in his village during his early years?

He behaved like everyone else, offering no special help. Signup and view all the answers

What notable incident occurred when Jesus was twelve years old?

He participated in the holy ceremonies at the Temple. Signup and view all the answers

How long did it take for Jesus' parents to find him after they left Jerusalem?

Three days. Signup and view all the answers

What phrase did Jesus reportedly use in response to his mother's concern for him?

Did you not know I must be in my Father's house? Signup and view all the answers

What did James recall about the way Jesus viewed the ceremony of sacrificial lambs?

He expressed great sadness and distaste for the entire ceremony. Signup and view all the answers

What significant aspect of Jesus' behavior was highlighted in relation to his visits to the Temple?

He felt compelled to be there, as if under a mandate. Signup and view all the answers

How did Jesus compare the sacrificial lamb to the Messiah according to Isaiah's prophecy?

Both experienced oppression without protest. Signup and view all the answers

What reaction did James have when discussing his brother's views and feelings?

He broke down in tears, showing deep emotion. Signup and view all the answers

What rationale did Jesus provide regarding his bachelorhood when questioned by the village elders?

He believed he would face punishment for choosing a wife. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary task that Jesus asked of his brother regarding their family?

To look after their mother and sisters Signup and view all the answers

What role did John the Baptist play in the context of the Kingdom of Heaven?

He was considered a prophet who proclaimed the coming of the Kingdom. Signup and view all the answers

What specific instruction did John the Baptist give to those coming to him for baptism?

To repent and change their ways. Signup and view all the answers

Which description best fits the state of Jesus upon his return after his time in the wilderness?

He appeared exhausted and disheveled. Signup and view all the answers

What was John's reaction when he saw Jesus among the crowd?

He pointed him out as the Lamb of God. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Matthias and James

Matthias is a Roman writer, working on a history of the Eastern Provinces.
Matthias meets James, the brother of Jesus, and is immediately struck by his unkempt appearance.
James is exhausted from a long sermon to the people.
James is suspicious of Matthias's interest in Jesus.
James is open to talking to Matthias, despite his initial skepticism.

Jesus's Early Life

James and Jesus were both apprentices to their father, a carpenter.
James provides details of their childhood, including their daily lives, their family's beliefs, and Jesus's education.
James remembers an incident where, at twelve years old, Jesus spent a long time in the Temple with rabbis and teachers.
James believes this event was pivotal, and that Jesus's words and actions about his Father were unsettling for their parents.

Jesus' Relationships

James states that, at twelve years old, Jesus showed a distinct aversion to the sacrificial ceremonies observed in the Temple.
Although never marrying, Jesus often joked that he was already "wed" to his family.
James recounts his own experience with the crucifixion of a rebel in Capernaum and its effect on him and Jesus.

The Revelation

James remembers Jesus's fascination with Isaiah’s prophecy about the Messiah, and his own realization that the prophecy resonated with the experience of the crucifixion he and Jesus had witnessed.
This realization evokes a profound emotional response from James.

### Jesus's Early Life and Ministry

Jesus lived in Nazareth with his family.
He was a carpenter by trade.
He traveled to Bethabara to hear John the Baptist preach.
Jesus was baptized by John in the Jordan River.
After his baptism, Jesus spent 40 days in the wilderness.
He experienced a period of intense spiritual reflection and temptation.
Jesus returned to the Jordan River and was acclaimed by John as "the Lamb of God."

Jesus's First Public Appearance in the Synagogue

Jesus returned to Nazareth and attended the Sabbath service in the synagogue.
He read a passage from Isaiah, proclaiming that the prophecy had been fulfilled in his life.
The people reacted with anger and attempted to throw Jesus from a cliff.

Jesus's Relationship with His Family

Jesus's family was initially skeptical of his claims.
They were concerned for his safety and well-being.
Jesus's brothers, including James, were initially critical of his ministry.
They believed he was deluded by his time in the wilderness.

### James's Perspective on Jesus's Ministry

James did not believe Jesus was the Messiah.
He believed Jesus violated sacred Jewish laws.
He did not witness any miracles performed by Jesus.
He was ashamed of Jesus and did not join his followers during his lifetime.

### James's Conversion

James became a follower of Jesus after his death.
He preached Jesus's teachings publicly, despite the risk of persecution.
He was a leader of the early Christian community.
He is described as experiencing a significant transformation in faith.

Matthias and the Grilling

Matthias is fatigued, but shows no anger or hate towards the speaker.
Matthias believes the speaker's questions are not for a history book.
Matthias believes the speaker's own peace of mind and soul depend on Matthias' reply.
The speaker feels the blood pounding in their temples.
Matthias intends to question others about Jesus.
Matthias wants to meet with the speaker again.
Matthias believes the speaker will understand more by then and be better prepared for his answer.
Matthias kisses the speaker on the forehead and embraces Joseph.
Matthias shouts "Mizpah!" before leaving.

Mizpah

The word "Mizpah" refers to a Hebrew word meaning "watchtower.”
It is often invoked as a prayer for protection and guidance.
The speaker is emotionally drained.

Joseph of Arimathea

The speaker requests Joseph, the old man from Arimathea, to take them home.

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Description

Explore the fascinating insights into Jesus's early life and his relationships with family, especially his brother James. This quiz delves into their childhood experiences, the family's beliefs, and significant moments that shaped Jesus's character. Test your knowledge on the formative years of Jesus and the dynamics with those closest to him.