Jesus Preaches In Galilee – Where Did Christ’s Ministry Begin?
In this Bible study lesson from Matthew 4:12-17, we take a look at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. After John the Baptist baptized Jesus, he was taken into custody, Jesus traveled to Galilee, where He began preaching a message of repentance and hope. Though His ministry lasted only three short years, the movement blossomed–and transform the world forever.
What Did Jesus Preach in Galilee?
Now when Jesus heard that John had been taken into custody, He withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth, He came and settled in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali.
This was to fulfill what was spoken through Isaiah the prophet:
“The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali,
By the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—
“The people who were sitting in darkness saw a great Light,
And those who were sitting in the land and shadow of death,
Upon them a Light dawned.”
From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” – Matthew 4:12-17 NASB
The Ministry of Christ – Jesus Goes to Galilee
Can you imagine going to church this Sunday and seeing Jesus in the pulpit? He might speak about love, compassion, and forgiveness, urging everyone to treat one another with kindness and understanding. Jesus might direct us to help those in need and live a life of humility and service. His words would inspire us to build a community rooted in faith and empathy. If Jesus were here, it would truly be a holy day, filled with joy and love. Ahh, but He is here!
Fulfillment of Prophecy
Zebulun and Naphtali as mentioned in the prophecy were two of the original 12 tribes of Israel located in the same region of Galilee as Capernaum. So, it fulfilled the sayings of Isaiah 9:1.
This verse states the Messiah will go to these places. And the people of darkness will see a “great light“, Christ.
The “great light” in the prophecy symbolizes the arrival of Jesus as a beacon of hope and salvation for those living in spiritual darkness. His teachings guided people towards righteousness and divine truth. By showing the way to God, Jesus offered a new beginning for humanity. In other words, He fulfilled the ancient promise of redemption and grace.
“Kingdom of Heaven is Near”
The “kingdom of heaven” Jesus mentions in verse 17 has the same meaning as the “kingdom of God” used by Luke and Mark.
At any rate, Christ preached repentance just as John The Baptist did before Him and proclaimed that the “kingdom of heaven is at hand”.
That was then but what about now? Is the “kingdom of God” still near? In a word, yes.
The reason? Through Christ, the kingdom of God resides in our hearts and minds through the Holy Spirit, placed within us when we accept Jesus as our personal Savior.
Have you accepted Christ as your Savior? Today is a good day to let Him change your life forever.
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you would like to learn more about how to experience the love of Jesus Christ for yourself, please take a moment to read John 3:16 and get more information.