The life of Jesus is the most talked-about life in human history. Countless movies and documentaries depict how He lived. You might think that you already know everything there is to know about Him. However, some surprising and less-discussed aspects of His life and teachings offer deeper insights.
Here, we will explore 19 teachings and intriguing aspects of Jesus’ life that go beyond the common narratives.
Child Prodigy
At the young age of 12, Jesus astonished the teachers in the temple with His profound understanding and deep interest in learning about various teachings. This remarkable story of young Jesus’ wisdom is discussed in Luke 2:46-47.
Jesus’ Birthplace
Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, has been associated with the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecy that the future ruler of Israel will come from Bethlehem, Ephrathah (Micah 5:2).
Jesus’ Hometown
Before He was called the Son of God, people used to address Him as Jesus of Nazareth. The little town where Jesus came from has a questionable reputation, making it hard for people to believe that He was the Messiah. In John 1:46, Nathaneal’s remark, “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” reflects his skepticism about Jesus’ hometown.
John The Baptist
While Jesus’ and John the Baptist’s relationship is not explicitly labeled in the Bible as cousins, the familial bond between Mary, mother of Jesus, and Elizabeth, mother of John, indicates that they are related by blood. Moreover, aside from baptizing Jesus, John The Baptist played a very significant role in preparing the people for the coming of the Messiah.
Jesus’ Short-lived Ministry
Jesus’ ministry only lasts for three and a half years. Despite the short term of His public ministry, Jesus accomplished His mission of teaching, healing, and ultimately sacrificing Himself for the salvation of humanity.
The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard
This parable, as told in Matthew 20:1-16 is one of the lesser-known parables in the Bible that provide impactful lessons. It is one of the many stories that describe Jesus’ unconventional ways of delivering important insights about the Kingdom of God.
Jesus’ Regard for Women
In ancient Rome, women are viewed as second-class citizens, holding lesser value than men. However, in Matthew 19:4, Jesus made it clear men and women are both created in the image of God and therefore, should be given equal intrinsic value. Jesus’ high regard for women can be seen in both His life and teaching.
Jesus Was an Introvert
While it can be seen that Jesus spent a lot of time teaching and engaging with a crowd, there are various accounts in the Bible when He would pull away, isolate Himself, and pray. One example is from Mark 1:34–35. Jesus is God who took on human form, and in His humanness, the way He has to have some time away to recharge, He may be considered an introvert.
Washing His Disciples’ Feet
In the Bible, the act of washing somebody else’s feet is the work of the lowest of servants. Jesus demonstrated profound humility by taking on this humble task. He wanted to set an example to His disciples of what true leadership and servanthood mean.
Jesus Did Not Want to Die
Perhaps another one of His more human sides is His fear of a harsh death. With the knowledge of His impending death, Jesus expressed His sorrow (Mark 14:34). But as an obedient Son of God, He said, “Not my will, but yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)
Supernatural Events on Jesus’ Death
The phenomenon that happened during the last three hours of Jesus’ life (Matthew 27:45) is what we describe today as a total solar eclipse. In ancient times, this was considered as a sign of judgment. At the same time, a massive earthquake occurred (Matthew 27:51) and ancient Jewish saints rose from their graves (Matthew 27:52-53). These supernatural events are a testament to the divine power and significance of Jesus’ crucifixion, affirming His identity as the Son of God and the fulfillment of prophecy.
Jesus Wept
John 11:35 is the shortest verse in the Bible. This illustrates a more human side of Jesus where He displayed pain and sorrow. This verse, albeit short, shows how Jesus can empathize with us in times when we feel sadness and grief.
Donkey Ride to Jerusalem
Jesus’ act of riding a donkey to Jerusalem as accounted in Zechariah 9-10 is symbolic of His peaceful and humble nature. This act demonstrated his mission to bring peace and salvation, fulfilling the prophecy from the Old Testament.
The Last Supper
The recent controversy during this year’s Paris Olympics opening ceremony brought the Last Supper into the spotlight. What most people do not know about the Last Supper, though, is that it was a fulfillment of a prophecy from the Old Testament, proving that Jesus is the Messiah.
Jesus 40-Day Fast
After His baptism, Jesus was immediately tested by the Holy Spirit, leading Him into the wilderness where He would fast for 40 days and nights (Matthew 4:1). This period is what prepared Jesus for His ministry that would later on change the entire world.
Lazarus’ Resurrection
You might have been aware of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, but have you wondered why Jesus waited for two days before going to Bethany to resurrect him? The timing of this miracle is essential for the people to witness and understand the greatness of God’s powers in Jesus.
Appearance After Resurrection
In the Bible, after His resurrection, there are at least eight accounts that Jesus appeared before His disciples 40 days before He ascended into heaven. These appearances affirmed His victory over death.
Burial by His Opponents
Traditionally, those who were crucified are not buried. They are left for the animals to be feasted on. But in Luke 23:50-53, Joseph of Arimathea, a member of the Council but a secret disciple of Jesus, asked Pilate if he could take away the body of Jesus. Together with Nicodemus, they took away His body and buried it.
The High Priestly Prayer
John 17 holds the record for the longest and greatest prayer that Jesus prayed in any of the Gospels. The key points of His prayer included praying for Himself, His disciples, and all His believers. This prayer illustrated Jesus’ intercession for the unity and protection of His followers.
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Vidivir is a dedicated high school teacher and a loving mother of three. With over a decade of experience as a blogger and article writer, she has honed her craft in storytelling. As a devoted church lector and servant of God, she combines her passion for writing with her faith, aiming to inspire others through her words.