Author: Geoff

Geoff Waugh is the founding editor of the Renewal Journal and an author of books on renewal and revival and Christian living.
Christian ministry, Christian mission, evangelism, mission, revival, revivals , , , ,

Brief Biography of Pioneer Mission

by Geoff 27 December 2025 1 Comment

Brief Biography of Pioneer Mission in PNG

And excerpts from Australia, Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Philippines, Kenya, Ghana and the South Pacific. More details in blog God’s Surprises and God’s Surprises – PDF

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Blog: Geoffrey Waugh, founding editor of the Renewal Journal

Blog: Geoffrey Waugh – Ministry & Mission CV

PDF: Brief Biography of Pioneer Mission in PNG

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Revivals Index – history’s mighty revivals

Pioneer Mission

Revival swept the highland villages in Papua New Guinea from 1973, just before and into their independence from 1975. I had the privilege of being there just before that and teaching village pastors and teachers in Bible Schools, which became part of preparing them for revival.

I landed in the 3-5,000 feet mountains of Papua New Guinea (PNG) among the Enga tribes as a raw, enthusiastic, inexperienced teacher. I had begun teaching with a class of 48 eight-year-old boys in Sydney at age 19 in 1957.

From 1965 I taught Basic English in PNG, first in mission station schools and then in village schools, less than a decade before revival transformed the church and villages there in PNG from 1973 and before PNG became independent in 1975. The Australian government poured money into PNG to raise educational and health levels to prepare them for independence.

Engas then wore nothing above the waist, and wore nets made from Pandanus fibres hung from belts made of vines or bamboo. Acquired old leather belts became popular. Now they have access to trade store clothing. More modest than many Europeans, no man would touch a woman in public including any of his wives. Big men like tribal leaders had many wives. Bride prices, given to the bride’s clan, included many pigs, maybe cows, and special shells.

The culture, wildly different from my Australian background, valued communal loyalty above individual choices. Payback, eye for eye and life for life, was not just an option but a responsibility. If someone stole from your food garden or house, you or your clan should payback the insult. That often escalated into tribal war with bows and arrows and spears.

A school I started in a remote village when I was single, the only European in that village, grew grade by grade for each of six years, adding a new grade and an indigenous teacher each year. I moved on after the first year. Someone from that village stole food from a nearby clan’s gardens, so that clan raided the village and pillaged more food. The village responded with reciprocal raids. It escalated until the nearby clan burnt down the whole school with its classrooms made of bamboo walls and thick grass roofs. The village had to rebuild the whole school.

A student I later taught in my Bible School, got involved in a fight over a tribal land border. The son of a chief, he went to prison (calaboose) for a month, building roads, along with his father and the tribal warriors. Upon release his tribal leaders re-enrolled him immediately back into Bible School, proud of his loyalty, courage, and skill. These were leaders in revival.

I accompanied two native female village teachers to an education conference via the town of Madang, using the regular Missionary Aviation Fellowship (MAF) Cessna planes. I showed the young ladies around the town. Unknown to me, local young men followed us, angry with me for taking two of their brown skinned ladies to where we stayed in a mission boarding house. They assumed I wanted sex. Fortunately the night watchman found those men creeping toward my room with knives ready to stab me. The watchman explained that we had separate rooms and I was a good man. Village teachers like them also became leaders in village revivals.

Another tribal group wanted to kill me because I had taken my school students swimming in a big pool in the river gorge nearby. But one student was washed downstream, almost drowning. His worry was not his cuts or bruises but that he had lost his school uniform sarong.  He stopped his clan from coming to attack me in payback! Tribal elders insisted that I never take students swimming again there. That student later became a pastor leading revivals in the villages.

I enjoyed teaching Basic English in many schools, and then teaching leaders in Bible Schools where I used both the national Pidgin language and the local Enga dialect. Those young leaders became village teachers and pastors. Most of them became leaders in revivals among the Engas which transformed hundreds of lives in each area.

They no longer cut a joint off a finger at the death of a close relative to show that relative’s spirit their sorrow. They no longer sacrificed to the spirits for protection but trusted God. They learned to forgive and agree on settlements instead of insisting on an eye for an eye. The first corpse I saw was a man cut in his neck with a tomahawk, lying on a hollow log bridge, because he had committed adultery. Someone in the woman’s clan had killed him.

Government law in PNG made it being illegal to stop after a vehicle accident in case of immediate payback by offended locals. By law you must not stop but report immediately to the nearest police station. Gradually life changed. Peace increased as repentance and revival spread..

Of course, like us, they were not perfect nor always Christ-like. But they learned and grew in compassion and care.

I was the only single male teacher, based in four mission stations and many villages. Twenty or so single European female teachers and nurses also lived and worked there. After three years single there (and invited to many meals with single women) I married Meg, one of the teachers. I would run from my school the three hours (usually a 5 hour trek) across high ridges to visit Meg at her school at weekends. But we did not hold hands in public. Even at night that was risky. We did that one night in the dark down a ridge track. Then I saw a low glow of a straw bundle small fire approaching in the dark (a local torch) along the track. Meg and I quickly separated.

“I see you are coming,” I said politely in the Enga dialect.

“I see you are there,” replied the school student politely, and passed us by. Next day stories circulated around the school and villages that we were caught being naughty.

I proposed to Meg there, and we married on furlough in Sydney. Then we returned to teach local leaders in Bible Schools. Our first child, born in the one-room European ward of the mission hospital, never crawled because the woven bamboo floor hurt her knees. So she held onto chairs and boxes, walking by nine months. Our homes, made from bamboo walls and floor with a thick grass roof, kept us cool in the daytime tropical heat. Village ladies passed our popular white baby from woman to woman with their unwashed breasts. Our baby caught a mild eye infection from that encounter, soon fixed with eye drops.

I was the founding principal of the full-time Bible School there where respected leaders trained to be pastors and teachers in the villages. We did not know we were preparing them to lead in village revivals, with strong Spirit-filled teaching, following God’s Word, just like in the Gospels and the life of the early church in the Book of Acts.

Here are some photos of those early pioneering days.

Village communion with bamboo cups & sweet potato

Baptisms in creek

Typical village

School student

 Bamboo and vine bridge in gorge

 

Geoff and Meg

Back in Australia I taught on renewal and revival at Trinity Theological College and Christian Heritage College in Brisbane and led many short term mission teams to around 20 countries to encourage revival.

For 20 years we have lived in an extended family in our home designed and built by my son where by 2025 we have four generations living together, still involved in ministry and mission.

Here are some excerpts from Australia, Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Philippines, Kenya, Ghana and the South Pacific. More details are in the blog God’s Surprises and in the free book God’s Surprises – PDF

Australia

Back in Australia I worked as a Baptist minister with the Methodist and then Uniting Church in Christian Education in Brisbane and Queensland, leading conferences, camps, conventions, and church services. That included united renewal conventions in the Anglican, Catholic, and Uniting Church cathedrals. I also worked part-time for two years as the inaugural Lifeline telephone counselling director in Toowoomba and a lecturer in Religious Education at the university there.

Later I taught about renewal and revival to Uniting Church (Methodist, Presbyterian, Congregational), Anglican and Catholic students at Trinity Theological College, part of the Brisbane College of Theology. Then I lectured at and became a Fellow of Christian Heritage College in Brisbane with its schools of Education, Social Sciences, Counselling, Business and Ministry.

Revival spread among Indigenous Australians from an outpouring of God’s Spirit among Elcho Island aborigines near Darwin from February 1978. That spread across northern Australia. We invited them to Pentecost weekend meetings in Brisbane and they invited us to their annual celebrations in February. God moved powerfully among them in repentance, reconciliation, conversions, baptisms, and deliverance from domestic violence and alcoholism in large numbers.

I was the founding editor of the Renewal Journal (now www.renewaljournal.com). That led to invitations to overseas short-term revival mission trips in around 20 countries including in Africa, Europe, Asia, and the South Pacific, as described in my book God’s Surprises (free on www.renewaljournal.com).

Here are highlights from a few of those revival mission trips.

Asia

Sri Lanka

We taught many overseas students in Trinity Theological College, mainly from the South Pacific but also from Asia. I conducted the impressive and totally free wedding in Brisbane of two students from Sri Lanka. Philip worked as a part-time cleaner of St Stephen’s Presbyterian (then Uniting) cathedral, so we held the wedding there for free. Church ladies freely provided flowers for the service and for the following day’s Sunday Service. The mother of a student friend at college owned a boutique clothing shop which also hired wedding clothes so she gave them free choice of impressive wedding outfits. Those students lived in a Salvation Army hostel so the hostel provided a smorgasbord wedding breakfast for them as their gift.

Philip and Dhamika’s relatives led village churches and a Bible School in the hills around Kandi in Sri Lanka. They invited us to visit and encourage them and lead revival meetings. They inherited land with fresh spring water so they built a small factory to bottle and sell the water to support their church and mission work. Our time there included dedicating their new factory for God’s kingdom purposes.

 

India

One of our teams visited Grace Bible College and school in New Delhi. It was the largest Bible College in India with 600 students. Graduates worked in many hostile regions and faced a lot of opposition and persecution. Two of their students returned to Nepal during the time of one of our visits to Nepal. Those students were shot by Maoists. They were accused of being spies.

 

Nepal

A retired friend in Brisbane worked with the government in Nepal to help with international marketing. He befriended and supported many local pastors and a young evangelist. The evangelist arranged revival meetings for us in West Nepal, East Nepal, and Kathmandu where he had started a church. That Hosanna Church grew into one of the biggest congregations in Nepal and planted many new churches, established schools, trade colleges, and Bible Schools. We saw the Lord pour out his Spirit on pastors and leaders there many times. Most pastors had been imprisoned often, and some bore scars from beatings there. If, for example, a pastor conducted a Christian wedding and relatives complained about that, the pastor could be imprisoned for a month or more for disturbing the peace.

 

Philippines

I taught on revival at a seminary in Manilla in the sweltering heat of the Philippines. My M.Th. students reported on revival and miracles. One Baptist pastor, who was also a police inspector, reported that a church he visited sent groups of young people to sing and speak at hospitals and nursing homes.

One of those teams held monthly meetings in a mental hospital. The staff said that their patients may not understand much, but those patients did enjoy the singing. More than 40 came to the first meeting. The team offered to pray for anyone who would like prayer. They prayed personally for 26 people. The next month when the team returned, all those 26 had been discharged and sent home.

Africa

 

Kenya

Francis, a Christian Heritage College graduate from Kenya began Nairobi Believers Mission (NBM) in the slums of Kibera, Nairobi, where a million people live, jammed together in small mud brick homes with rusty iron roofs.  Our mission teams visited Francis to serve leaders and speak at meetings there.  In spite of poverty and political unrest, their churches continue to grow steadily.

“Can I take some bread home?” asked a young man at our communion service in the slums of Nairobi in Kenya, East Africa. We shared real drink and some loaves of bread together among 30 people in their corrugated iron shed where I was the guest preacher.

“It’s your bread,” I answered. “You decide.” He quickly shoved a handful of bread into his pocket. Then most of the others did the same. Two weeks later, Francis, the young pastor, emailed me: “I’ve visited the slum homes of those people and they are still eating that bread. It’s still fresh.” Apparently God multiplied it.

Francis added: “Actually the miracle continued months after we began NBM and were feeding members each Saturday afternoon with tea and bread.  God continued multiplying the food and there was always enough.”

 

Ghana

A young pastor in Ghana in West Africa, invited me to hold meetings there. So I arrived with three others from Brisbane during our college break in July, forgetting it was monsoon time in Ghana. We flew into a deluge of rain on the Monday. Our hosts planned night meetings in the market from Tuesday, with morning teaching in a local church.

We drove for over an hour in pouring rain from Accra, the capital, to the town of Suhum in the hills for our first meeting on Tuesday night. The heavy rain had flooded the power station there so the whole town was in darkness. We prayed earnestly, asking God to take over. Within 15 minutes the rain stopped, the town lit up with power, and we began. The host team began excitedly shouting that it was a miracle.

Soon the musicians from one of the local churches had plugged in their instruments to the sound system.  The loudspeakers did not face the faithful Christians gathered in the fluorescent-lit open area, but pointed at the surrounding houses, the stores, and the hotel. Those excited Africans sang and danced for over two hours, attracting hundreds to the meeting.

When we invited people to respond and give their lives to Christ, they came from the surrounding darkness into the light.  Some wandered over from the pub, smelling of beer.  They kept the ministry team busy praying and arranging follow-up with their churches.

We moved about laying hands on people and praying for them.  People reported various touches of God in their lives. Church teams prayed for hundreds of people. Many were saved. Many were healed. One man testified, “I came to this meeting blind, but while you were singing I found I could see.”

Each day we held morning worship and teaching sessions for Christians in the Apostolic Church, hot under an iron roof on those clear, tropical sunny days.  During the second morning I vividly ‘saw’ golden light fill the church and swallow up or remove blackness.  At that point the African Christians became very noisy, vigorously celebrating and shouting praises to God.  A fresh anointing seemed to fall on them just then.

Although it didn’t rain the whole time we were holding meetings there, the day after our meetings finished, the torrential rains began again.  The following week we saw floods in Ghana reported on international television.  Later on we received letters telling us how the church where we held our morning meetings, and the other churches, had grown, expanded their building, and had sent out teams of committed young people in evangelism.  Through that experience, God showed us a glimpse of what he is doing in a big way in the earth right now.

 

South Pacific

We often visited the South Pacific nations close to Australia, including Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Fiji. I describe many revival movements in my book South Pacific Revivals (free on www.renewaljournal.com).

Many revival movements swept the South Pacific islands. I was blessed to see some.

God’s Spirit fell on the Law School of the University of the South Pacific just after Easter 2002. The Law School is in Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu. Many were dramatically saved and transformed. Those committed students also went on mission to other South Pacific nations and to Australia. Now they are lawyers and leaders, and a president of their Christian Fellowship became a Member of Parliament in Tuvalu.

Some of those teams came with me to Pentecost Island in Vanuatu. God has been moving there in unusual ways for a hundred years. Vanuatu people first evangelized the island, one becoming a martyr, A wife of the highest ranking chief returned to life after she died and told them that she had seen God and they should leave their heathen ways and become Christians. Many revival teams have served God there.

God poured out his Spirit on children and youth in the Western Solomon Islands from Easter 2003. They loved to sing and pray daily in the church after school. God gave them visions, revelations, words of knowledge about hidden sins and bad relationships and many other spiritual gifts such as healings and speaking and singing what God revealed.

A mother asked me what it meant when her young boy had a vision of Jesus with one foot in heaven and one foot on the earth. I immediately remembered Matthew 28:18 – All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Many youths had visions of Jesus.

We saw God touch around 1,000 youths at a Solomon Islands National Christian Youth Convention in 2006. One night at the convention they responded, running to the front of the open-air meeting. For half-an-hour their worship team sang “He is Lord” while we prayed for them. They fell like dominoes. Many testified to healings, visions and revelations. One young man returned to his village that night and found his mother ill, so laid hands on her and prayed for her. She was healed. His brother then asked for prayer and he too was healed. The young man had never done that before. A whole group from the Kariki Islands, further west, saw revival in their islands on their return. God moved powerfully in every meeting they held and in their personal prayers.

Solomon Islands transport


God’s Surprises

I will Pour out My Spirit

God’s Surprises – Blog: revival movements in 20 countries
God’s Surprises – free PDF eBook
Current movements of God’s Spirit in 20 countries

I summarized some of our revival mission trips in God’s Surprises.

See more resources on the Main Page

GENERAL BLOGS INDEX

Blogs Index 1: Revivals (briefer than Revivals Index)
Blogs Index 2: Mission (international stories)
Blogs Index 3: Miracles (supernatural events)
Blogs Index 4: Devotional (including Testimonies)
Blogs index 5: Church (Christianity in action)
Blogs Index 6: Chapters (Blogs from Books)
Blogs Index 7: Images (Photos & Videos)

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Revival among Gen Z, 18-25 years old, 2025

by Geoff 16 October 2025 No Comments

Revival among Gen Z, 18-25 years old, 2025

Joel News report, October 16, 2025

 

UK: Generation Z sparks Bible boom

UK Bible sales soar by 87% as young people rediscover faith in uncertain times.

In a striking cultural shift, Bible sales in the UK nearly doubled over five years, rising from £2.69 million in 2019 to £5.02 million in 2024. While general non-fiction sales fell, the hunger for God’s Word grew – driven especially by Generation Z.
Surveys reveal that 62% of 18- to 24-year-olds describe themselves as spiritual, compared to only 35% of those over 65. Far fewer Gen Z identify as atheists (13%) than millennials (20%) or Gen X (25%).

Publishers and ministries note that young people are picking up the Bible to find hope, identity, and guidance amid mental health struggles and post-pandemic uncertainty. “The Bible has something important to say to young people,” says Mark Woods of Bible Society.

Modern translations like the Good News Bible: Youth Edition – featuring notes, infographics, and space for reflection – have nearly doubled in sales since 2021. The NIV and Good News Bible now outsell the traditional King James Version.

Source: Bible Society

 

USA: Generation Z’s quiet turn to Jesus

“I want a god.” This striking confession from a Gen Z young adult sums up a surprising trend in the West today. After decades of growing secularism, the tide is turning – especially among the young.

New Barna data reveals two-thirds of US adults now say their commitment to Jesus remains important, marking a 12-point rise since 2021. Bible sales are also soaring – up 22% last year – driven largely by Gen Z’s curiosity about faith.
Why the shift? After years marked by loneliness, anxiety and an empty digital life, many are searching for meaning that transcends their screens. “The phone-based life produces spiritual degradation,” writes atheist Jonathan Haidt. His solution? Engage in spiritual practices.

This spiritual longing is drawing many to Scripture and to Jesus himself. The popular series The Chosen plays a key role, with a third of viewers identifying as non-believers or agnostics. By portraying Jesus and his disciples as relatable humans with divine purpose, the show invites seekers into God’s story.

John Plake from the American Bible Society puts it plainly: “Nobody becomes a Christian because they lose the argument. It’s because they’re invited on the journey.”

Source: Barna Group

 

SEE ALSO

North America – Current Revival in America’s Largest University – 2018
North America – American Revival Reports – 2023
North America – Fresh Outpouring at Asbury University – 2023
North America – A year of revival on college campuses – 2023
North America – Revivals in 2024
North America – Revival continues in Kentucky – 2025
North America – Largest baptism events in US history – May 2025
North America & Global – Revival Reports 2025
England – 2 million Brits are trying church again – 2025

RENEWAL JOURNAL

GENERAL BLOGS INDEX 

BLOGS INDEX 1: REVIVALS(BRIEFER THAN REVIVALS INDEX)

BLOGS INDEX 2: MISSION(INTERNATIONAL STORIES)

BLOGS INDEX 3: MIRACLES(SUPERNATURAL EVENTS)

BLOGS INDEX 4: DEVOTIONAL (INCLUDING TESTIMONIES) 

BLOGS INDEX 5: CHURCH(CHRISTIANITY IN ACTION)

BLOGS INDEX 6: CHAPTERS (BLOGS FROM BOOKS)

BLOGS INDEX 7: IMAGES (PHOTOS AND ALBUMS)

BACK TO MAIN PAGE

 

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The Amazing Life of Jesus – Resources

by Geoff 14 October 2025 1 Comment

The Amazing Life of Jesus – Resources

History’s Great Love Story

Free PDF eBook: The Amazing Life of Jesus

Renewal Journal Store $10.99  

Amazon $7.59 
because his love changes lives forever

Why would such a good man who loved so profoundly and helped so many people be killed? Why did he provoke opposition? If God walked among us in the person of his son, why would people want to kill him? Why did so many vehemently oppose him? In The Life of Jesus, author Rev Dr Geoffrey Waugh explores that mystery.

He provides a brief overview of history’s great love story. It gives a summary of the birth and boyhood of Jesus and describes his ministry through three Passover Festivals. It includes a detailed chronology of Jesus’ life and ministry and examines why such a popular, loving, and compassionate young leader would encounter intense hostility and opposition causing his crucifixion.

Offering fresh insights, The Life of Jesus points you to the great good news of who Jesus is and what he did.

(WestBow Press back cover)

*****

Both Books

The Amazing Life of Jesus: History’s Great Love Story
also available as:
The Life of Jesus: History’s Great Love Story

2 versions of this Maincrest Media Award Winner


The Amazing Life of Jesus, also available as
The Life of Jesus

Contents

Preface
Introduction
1 Birth and Boyhood
2 Ministry Begins
3 First to Second Passovers
4 Second to Third Passovers
5 Passover to Pentecost
Conclusion
Discussion Questions
Appendix 1: Chronology Chart
Appendix 2: The Feast Days
Appendix 3: The Gospels
Appendix 4: Alternative Chronology 
Appendix 5: The Shroud of Turin 
Appendix 6: Publications 

Renewal Journal Store

 Free eBooks on this page. Paperbacks in Renewal Journal Store

Video


Spotlight TV interview on The Life of Jesus

*****

The Amazing Life of Jesus

   

 

Free PDF eBook: The Amazing Life of Jesus

The Amazing Life of Jesus provides a brief overview of history’s great love story. It gives a summary of the birth and boyhood of Jesus and describes his ministry through three Passover Festivals. The book includes a detailed chronology of Jesus’ life and ministry and examines why such a popular, loving, and compassionate young leader would encounter intense hostility and opposition causing his crucifixion. The mystery and wonder deepen because his resurrection transformed his followers and millions of lives. We date our diaries and calendars from the time of his birth. His story is now the world’s best seller annually, translated into over 1400 different languages.

     

 

   

     

 

*****

The Life of Jesus

Also available as The Life of Jesus.

Maincrest Media Award Winner

The Life of Jesus – WestBow Press – PDF
WestBow Press version – The Life of Jesus
Amazon – paperback, hardcover, Kindle

Amazon $15.24:   

Koorong A$19.99: 
because his love changes lives forever


 

Renewal Journal – a chronicle of renewal and revival: www.renewaljournal.com
Geoff Waugh – founding editor of the Renewal Journal
Free PDF books on the Main Page
Permissions: You can reproduce any Renewal Journal resource freely, including in print.

Earlier Renewal Journal version

* I must commend the exceptional quality of this work. The depth of insight, clarity of expression, and emotional resonance are truly remarkable. It’s rare to encounter a book that not only informs but also transforms its readers. The overwhelmingly positive feedback is well-deserved, and I join others in recommending this as a valuable and impactful read. Congratulations to the author on such an inspiring and masterfully written contribution. ~ Katty Jay

* The Amazing Life of Jesus made Scripture come alive for me. The timeline and context around the Passover festivals were eye-opening. Highly recommended – order a copy and be inspired by Jesus’ life and ministry. ~ Philip Rettew

* Our team recently came across your book entitled The Life of Jesus: History’s Great Love Story, and we were captivated from start to finish. Your writing style is not only engaging but also remarkably insightful, and the story-line/topic you’ve crafted is nothing short of compelling. Its unique qualities and the emotions it evokes have the power to resonate with readers on a profound level. ~ James Mendez (Skylark)

* This book reignited my faith. Rev. Dr. Waugh writes with deep compassion and wisdom, guiding readers through the story of Jesus not just as history, but as a living reality of love and sacrifice. I loved how he addressed the question why would anyone want to kill someone so good? His reflections are both thought–provoking and comforting. It’s a short but powerful read that reminds us of the beauty of God’s redemptive plan. A treasure for any Christian library! ~ William Lawson

* The Amazing Life of Jesus is an excellent summary for the life and ministry of Christ. I especially appreciated the chronological approach and the author’s ability to make complex biblical events feel simple and relatable. Rev. Waugh’s writing is thoughtful, informative, and sincere. While it’s a concise read, it’s packed with meaningful insights that linger long after you finish. It’s a great resource for both new believers and those who’ve been walking with Christ for years. ~ James Dunkies

* Your book The Life of Jesus: History’s Great Love Story strikes that rare balance between devotional warmth and historical clarity. By framing Jesus’ ministry through Passover Festivals and mapping out a detailed chronology, you’ve created something that’s both deeply spiritual and accessible for modern readers.
It’s clear your decades of mission, teaching, and renewal work flow directly into your writing, it reads like a heartfelt invitation to rediscover Jesus’ story as both history and love in action. This feels like the kind of resource not only for individual readers, but also for Bible study groups who want structured yet personal insights. ~ Cassandra Lattmore

* I recently came across The Life of Jesus: History’s Great Love Story, and I was immediately drawn in by its clarity, reverence, and powerful simplicity. You’ve done something many attempt but few achieve. You’ve told the greatest story ever told in a way that’s accessible, inspiring, and grounded in both historical detail and deep spiritual resonance.
By structuring the narrative around the three Passovers of Christ’s ministry, you’ve not only illuminated Jesus’s life, but also offered readers a profound lens through which to understand the arc of his mission, his sacrifice, and his unshakable love. Your book is more than a biography it’s a guide, a reminder, and a call to reflection. ~ Janice M. Lovell

* I had the pleasure of reading your book last night. It is truly exceptional, providing fresh insights. The Life of Jesus effectively directs readers to the profound and uplifting news about who Jesus is and the significance of his actions. ~ Christiana Michael.

* You’ve created a powerful, accessible biography that offers readers not only a historical journey but a spiritual awakening.  The way you connect the Messiah’s earthly journey with the lasting impact of his resurrection resonates deeply. In a world increasingly searching for meaning and truth, your book feels especially vital. It’s a testament to the love story at the heart of history. ~ Susan B. Gravois

* This is a very informative, amazing, and powerful book. Thanks to the author for investing hours of research, expressed with his masterful command of language. ~ Alex Johnson (5-stars)

More review endorsements on https://renewaljournal.com

*****

GENERAL BLOGS INDEX

Blogs Index 1: Revivals (briefer than Revivals Index)
Blogs Index 2: Mission (international stories)
Blogs Index 3: Miracles (supernatural events)
Blogs Index 4: Devotional (including Testimonies)
Blogs index 5: Church (Christianity in action)
Blogs Index 6: Chapters (Blogs from Books)
Blogs Index 7: Images (Photos & Videos)

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The Life of Jesus – other translations

by Geoff 18 September 2025 No Comments

The Life of Jesus  –  other translations

 
Translator: Nabeel Sharoon
Nabeel Sharoon in Pakistan translated The Life of Jesus & The Amazing Life of Jesus into 5 languages: Hindi, Indian Punjabi, Urdu, Sindhi, & Pakistani Punjabi.
See The Life of Jesus – in 6 languages if you’d like Nabeel to translate your work.

Contact Nabeel if you can help him. His home is severely damaged in recent floods.

beel.sharoon@gmail.com

Other Translations

The Life of Jesus in Hindi, Indian Punjabi,
Urdu, Sindhi, & Pakistani Punjabi.

You can freely reproduce, translate, and print these PDF books

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Renewal Journal – a chronicle of renewal and revival: www.renewaljournal.com
Geoff Waugh – founding editor of the Renewal Journal

This book is available from WestBow Press, a division of Zondervan with this cover:


The Life of Jesus – Blog
WestBow Press version – The Life of Jesus
The Life of Jesus – WestBow Press – PDF
Amazon link – paperback, hardcover, Kindle

The Life of Jesus provides a brief overview of history’s great love story. It gives a summary of the birth and boyhood of Jesus and describes his ministry through three Passover Festivals.
The book includes a detailed chart of a chronology of Jesus’ life and ministry and examines why such a popular, loving, and compassionate young leader would encounter intense hostility and opposition causing his crucifixion.
The mystery and wonder deepen because his resurrection transformed his followers and millions of lives. We date our diaries and calendars from the time of his birth.

Contents

Preface [see below]
Introduction
1 Birth and Boyhood
2 Ministry Begins
3 First to Second Passovers
4 Second to Third Passovers
5 Passover to Pentecost
Conclusion
Discussion Questions [see below]
Appendix 1: Chronology Chart
Appendix 2: The Feast Days
Appendix 3: The Gospels
Appendix 4: Alternative Chronology 
Appendix 5: The Shroud of Turin 
Appendix 6: Publications   

Model of Jerusalem in Jesus’ time

 

Preface

Why would such a good man who loved so profoundly and helped so many people be killed? Why did he provoke opposition?

If God walked among us in the person of his Son, why would people want to kill him? Why did so many vehemently oppose him?

That puzzled me as a boy. It still does.

The greatest love story the world has ever seen led to the excruciating death of crucifixion.

Many people have given their lives for other people as soldiers do in war. They die for others, defending home and country. But Jesus’ death was different. God’s Son chose to die for us because of his immense love for us. He took our place. His death gives us life. He is the perfect, sinless, eternal sacrifice for us. His blood cleanses us from all our sin as we trust in him. We are forgiven.

But why did so many good people, good religious people, hate him? That puzzled and fascinated me, so I explore that mystery in this book. I wanted to write a summary overview that people of all ages could read.

I always believed in Jesus. Even as a small boy I loved to hear and then read stories about him. He was so unique, so different. I believed his story as a boy and trusted in him. I still do and I hope you do too.

Jesus did what was good. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, set people free from addictions and evil, performed miracles, and even raised dead people. Huge crowds followed him and wanted him to be their king.

Now billions follow him, captivated by his love, the greatest love story of all. You can do that also. I invite you to simply pray something like this: Thank you Lord for all you’ve done. Forgive me for any wrong in my life. I trust in you and give my life to you.

 

Available as both The Life of Jesus  and  The Amazing Life of Jesus

 

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Spotlight TV interview on The Life of Jesus

 

Christian leadership, Christian life, Christian ministry, Christian mission, Christian renewal, Christian revival , , ,

Geoffrey Waugh – Ministry & Mission

by Geoff 4 July 2025 2 Comments

Geoffrey Waugh – Ministry & Mission
(1937-2026)


Photos: South Pacific 2015, Brisbane 2025

 A summary overview of Geoff’s ministry and mission in Australia and internationally.
Geoff’s autobiographical ebooks, with links on the main page of this Renewal Journal,
describe his life in more detail.

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Blog: Geoffrey Waugh, founding editor of the Renewal Journal

Blog: Geoffrey Waugh – Ministry & Mission CV

See also: Brief Biography of Pioneer Mission

Geoffrey Waugh – founding editor of the Renewal Journal & Resources.
These resources are freely reproduced in many countries, including translations.
Examples on this link.

Permission: you can freely reproduce and share these resources and books, including printing (just include the source). You can print and distribute your edition of any of my books – “by all means save some” (1 Cor 9:22)

ChatGPT AI summary:

Rev. Dr Geoffrey (Geoff) Waugh is a Christian minister, theologian, author, and editor whose life and work have been shaped by a deep love for God, the Church, and the renewing work of the Holy Spirit. For many decades, his calling has been to serve the people of God through teaching, writing, and pastoral ministry, always with a heart for spiritual renewal and mission.

Geoff has taught theology and ministry at institutions such as Trinity Theological College, Christian Heritage College, and Griffith University’s School of Theology in Brisbane. His teaching flows from a conviction that theology is not merely to be studied, but lived — formed in prayer, grounded in Scripture, and expressed in faithful obedience to Christ.

As the founding editor of the Renewal Journal, Geoff has given voice to pastors, scholars, and practitioners who share a passion for the renewing presence of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Church. Through this ministry, he has helped encourage reflection on revival, mission, and the ongoing work of God in the world.

Geoff’s writing reflects a lifelong engagement with the Scriptures, the history of renewal movements, and the practical realities of ministry. His books and articles have been used widely in churches, Bible colleges, and leadership training, offering guidance and encouragement to those seeking faithful and Spirit-led service.

Beyond Australia, Geoff has shared in teaching and mission across the South Pacific, Africa, Europe, and Asia, always seeking to listen, learn, and serve alongside the global Church. His ministry stands within the evangelical and charismatic tradition, with a strong emphasis on prayer, renewal, and participation in God’s mission.

Geoff lives in Australia with his family and continues to write, mentor, and serve, trusting in the grace of God and the leading of the Holy Spirit as he seeks the renewal of the Church for the glory of Christ.


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BIOGRAPHICAL

a-gods-surprises-all
Blog: God’s Surprises – Blog
God’s Surprises – PDF
God’s surprises in 20 countries – autobiographical  reports
“I’m reading your book ‘God’s Surprises’ and I can feel the power of God and a tremendous desire for a Revival in Italy, where I live.”  Francesco Trentinella.

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0 0 Jurney M2
Journey into Mission – Blog
Journey into Mission – PDF
Biographical mission adventures
“I have read many similar stories, but this one exceeds them all. … Geoff has done well to not only be in so many places and seeing God at work but also writing a book about it all.”  ~ Barbara Vickridge

Journey into Ministry & Mission – Blog
Autobiographical memoirs – condensed

Looking to Jesus: Journey into Renewal & Revival – Blog
Autobiographical memoirs

 

Education and Employment

1955-1956  Teachers College, Newcastle, NSW
1957-1959  Primary School teaching, NSW
1960-1963  Baptist Theological College of NSW (Now Morling College)
1961-1962  Student Pastor, North Epping Baptist, Sydney
1963  Student Pastor, Narrabeen Baptist, Sydney
1964  Pastor, Ariah Park Baptist, NSW
1965-1970  School Teacher & Bible School Teacher, Baptist Mission PNG (ABMS)
1971-1976  Christian Educator, Methodist Church, Queensland
1975-1976   Religious Education Lecturer, part-time (now Uni of Southern Qld)
1975-1976   Director of Life Line, Toowoomba, part-time.
1977-1985  Alcorn College Lecturer, Uniting Church, Brisbane – Lay Ministry
Also team ministry at Kangaroo Point Uniting Church & renewal ministries
with Dr Col Warren & Rev Wal Gregory, and worship with Bill Clark & team.
1986-1993  Trinity Theological College, Uniting Church, Brisbane – Ministry
Distance Education Director (B.Th & Dip.Min teaching)
Also leading the Renewal Fellowship in Trinity College chapel with Hilary Mackerras
1994-2002   Christian Heritage College, School of Ministries, Brisbane – Ministry
Distance Education Co-ordinator (B.Min & Dip.Min teaching)
2002-2013   Christian Heritage College, School of Ministries, part-time (retired).
2025   Fellow of Christian Heritage College
1995-present:   Voluntary Short Term Mission teaching and preaching

 

Academic Summary

Rev Dr Geoffrey Waugh, D.Miss., M.Th.Miss., B.Ed.St., Dip.Div., Dip.R.E.

Graduate, Newcastle Teachers’ College, NSW, 1956
Graduate, Baptist Theological College, NSW, 1963
Diploma in Religious Education, Melbourne College of Divinity, 1967
Diploma in Divinity, Melbourne College of Divinity, 1975
Bachelor of Educational Studies, University of Queensland, 1976
Master of Theology in Missiology, Fuller Theological Seminary, 1987
Doctor of Missiology, Fuller Theological Seminary, 1989
Member of the Australian Institute of Human Relations, 1971-1975
Member of the Australian College of Education (MACE), 1976-1995
Fellow of Christina Heritage College

 

Graduate Research

A-grade research for M.Th.Miss and D.Miss:
Majors: Leadership, Church Growth, Theology
Minors: History, Anthropology, Religions, Evangelism
Units: Theology of Mission, Pauline Theology & Mission, Contextualization of Theology,
Anthropology, Anthropological Basis of Leadership, Strategy of Missions,
Historical Development of the Christian Movement, History of Evangelical Awakenings,
Principles & Procedures in Church Growth, Topics in Church Growth, Church Renewal,
Healing & Church Growth, Leadership Training Models, Training the Ministry,
TEE (Theological Education by Extension) Research, Foundations of TEE,
TEE Readings, Projects in TEE.
M.Th.Miss. Thesis: Liberate Leadership: An Innovative Model of TEE.
D.Miss. Dissertation: Multiply Ministry. Published as Body Ministry.

 

Publications

Ern Sipp, Brisbane (Methodist Church)
1971,  Charisma (ed.).
1972,  The Jesus Revolution (ed.).

University Microfilms International, Ann Arbor, USA
1984 Liberate Leadership: An Innovative Model of Theological Education by Extension
          Th.M. Thesis, Fuller Theological Seminary.
1984 Multiply Ministry: Charismatic Christian Ministry Foundations for Innovative
Theological Education by Extension. D.Miss. Dissertation, Fuller Theological Seminary.
Adapted into Body Ministry: The Body of Christ alive in His Spirit 2011.

Renewal Journal Editor
1993-2002, Renewal Journal, two a year, Brisbane.

1998, Flashpoints of Revival. 2nd expanded edition published by Destiny Image, North Charleston, USA. 2009

2004, Flashpoints of Revival (Korean)
Grace Publishers, Seoul, Korea, in Korean

2006, Revivals Awaken Generations: A History of Church Revival
Translation of Flashpoints of Revival in Korean
David W Kim’s Ministries, Sydney, Australia, in Korean

2011, Revival Fires. Flashpoints of Revival adapted with endnotes.
The Apostolic Network of Global Awakening, Mechanisburg, USA

2022,  The Life of Jesus: History’s Great Love Story
WestBow Press, a division of Thomas Nelson & Zondervan, Bloomington, USA

2023, The Queen’s Faith in Czech: Vira kralovny Alzbety II
KatMedia, Czechoslovakia, in Czech

Joint Board of Christian Education, Melbourne (JBCE, Uniting Church)
Reproduced by Renewal Journal (2009-2010) – www.renewaljournal.com
1977, Keeping Faith Alive Today, with 2 others
1987, Living in the Spirit: The Holy Spirit and the Christian Life
1989, The Leader’s Goldmine: Ideas for Christian Groups
1990, Kingdom Life in Mark
1991, Kingdom Life in Luke
1991, Church on Fire (ed.)
1992, Kingdom Life in Matthew
1992, Fruit and Gifts of the Spirit

 Renewal Journal.   www.renewaljournal.com
Trinity Theological College, Brisbane, then
School of Ministries, Christian Heritage College, Brisbane
1993-2002, Editor of Renewal Journal, Issues 1-20

20 Renewal Journals – with links
1 Revival,1993
2 Church Growth,1993
3 Community,1994
4 Healing,1994
5 Signs & Wonders,1995
6 Worship, 1995
7 Blessing, 1996
8 Awakening, 1996
9 Mission, 1997
10 Evangelism, 1997
11 Discipleship, 1998
12 Harvest, 1998
13 Ministry, 1999
14 Anointing, 1999
15 Wineskins, 2000
16 Vision, 2000
17 Unity, 2001
18 Servant Leadership, 2001
19 Church, 2002
20 Life, 2002
See Prayer & Miracles

Renewal Journals – in 4 volumes:
Vol. 1 (1-5) Revival, Church Growth, Community, Signs & Wonders
Vol. 2 (6-10) Worship, Blessing, Awakening, Mission, Evangelism
Vol. 3 (11-15) Discipleship, Harvest, Ministry, Anointing, Wineskins
Vol. 4 (16-20) Vision, Unity, Servant Leadership, Church, Life

  Renewal Journal Publications, Brisbane
Now Blogs on www.renewaljournal.com
1993-2002, Editor of Renewal Journal, Issues 1-20

2009,  Looking to Jesus: Journey into Renewal and Revival

2009,  Light on the Mountains: Pioneer Mission in Papua New Guinea

2009,  South Pacific Revivals. 3rd expanded edition, 2012

2011,  Revival Fires, Apostolic Network of Global Awakening

2011,  Exploring Israel.  2nd expanded edition 2015

2011,  Inspiration (ed.)

2011,  Kingdom Life in John. Compiled from 3 Kingdom Life books

2011,  A Preface to The Acts

2011,  Renewal and Revival, Compiled from Renewal Journal articles

2011,  Body Ministry: the Body of Christ Alive in His Spirit

2011,  Your Spiritual Gifts to serve in love

2011,  Best Revival Stories, and
2011,  Transforming Revivals, compiled into
2011,  Great Revival Stories, compiled from the 2 books

2011,  King of the Granny Flat, by Dante Waugh (biographical)

2013,  Christian Passover Service. Christian Haggadah

2014,  You Can Publish for Free

2015,  Jesus on Dying Regrets

2015,  Learning Together in Ministry

2015,  The Lion of Judah. Compiled from 6 books

2015,  Signs and Wonders: Study Guide, with Cecilia E Oliver

2015,  Jesus the Model for Supernatural Mission, and
2016,  Teaching Them to Obey in Love, compiled into
2016,  Great Commission Mission, compiled from the 2 books

2016,  Kingdom Life in the Gospels. 4 Kingdom Life books in one

2016,  A Preface to The Acts

2016,  Holy Week: Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday
2016,  Risen: 12 Resurrection Appearances. 2 editions
2016,  Holy Week, Christian Passover, & Risen

2016,  Discovering Aslan, compiled from 7 books:
2016,  Discovering Aslan in The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe
2016,  Discovering Aslan in Prince Caspian
2016,  Discovering Aslan in the Voyage of the ‘Dawn Treader’
2016,  Discovering Aslan in the Silver Chair
2016,  Discovering Aslan in the Horse and his Boy
2016,  Discovering Aslan in the Magician’s Nephew
2016,  Discovering Aslan in the Last Battle
2017,  Discovering Aslan, 2nd Edition

2017,  Annual Journal and Planner

2017,  The Christmas Message, 2 editions, updated annually

2017,  The Queen’s Christmas Message (Holy Fire Publications)

2018,Study Guide: The Holy Spirit in Ministry, with Peter Earle
2018,Study Guide: Holy Spirit Movements through History, with Sam Hey
2018,Study Guide: Renewal Theology 1, with Paul Grant
2018,Study Guide: Renewal Theology 2, with Paul Grant
2018,Study Guide: Revival History
2018,Study Guide: Ministry Practicum

2018,  Journey into Mission,  Autobiographical

2018,  Journey into Ministry and Mission,  Autobiographical

2019,  Crucified and Risen

2019,  Bible Story Pictures & Models,  children’s pictures and models

2020,  100 Bible Quotes

2020,  The Queen’s Christmas & Easter Messages (Holy Fire Publications)

2020,  EnCOURAGE

2020,  Journal & Planner

2020,  Perpetual Diary

2021,  The Queen’s Faith

2022,  The Life of Jesus (WestBow Press)

2023,  The Queen’s Faith in Czech: Vira kralovny Alzbety II

2024,  The Amazing Life of Jesus

 

International teaching and preaching

1965-1970  School Teacher & Bible School Teacher, Baptist Mission PNG (ABMS)
1965-1968  Teaching primary schools in English
1968-1969  Teaching short term Bible Schools in Enga and Pidgin.
1969-1970  Teaching Enga Baptist Bible School in Enga and Pidgin.

Short Term Missions [Described in the book God’s Surprises

1981 Dec 19 – Jan 20, Israel, Egypt, family visit staying at Jerusalem and Tiberias.

1994 March 8-13, Elcho Island, revival meetings, with Hills, Hilary, Meryl, Unkles.

1994 May 4-21, Philippines, Teaching M.Th. Revival, at Asian Theological Seminary.

1994 July 3-12, Solomon Islands, Teaching, men’s conference, with Meg, Melinda, Hills.

1995 May 27 – June 16, Philippines, Teaching M.Th. Signs & Wonders, at ATS.

1995 June 19-26, Ghana, Revival, teaching & crusades, with Meg & Hills (No rain!)

1996 Nov 17 – Dec 10, Nepal, India, Sri Lanka, Teaching Revival to pastors and leaders.

1998 Nov 18 – Dec 11, Nepal, India, Sri Lanka, Teaching Revival, with Meg, Hills.

2000 April 14-28 , Nepal, India, Teaching Revival to pastors and leaders.

2002 Nov 11 – Dec 10, Australia, hosted South Pacific law student mission team of 11.

2003 Nov 18 – Dec 22, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Revival meetings and teaching.

2004 April 9-26, Vanuatu, Revival meetings on 3 islands.

2004 Sept 9-27, Nepal, Revival meetings and teaching.

2004 Oct 15-31, Dec 1-20, Vanuatu, Bible College Revival teaching and village meetings.

2005 Feb 2-22, Kenya, Revival meetings and teaching.

2005 March 25 – April 24, June 10 – July 6, Vanuatu, Revival teaching at Bible College.

2005 July 7-18, Fiji, Revival meetings.

2006 June 12 – July 10, Fiji, Kenmore Baptist Church mission team.

2006 Sept 22 – Oct 16, Vanuatu, Revival village meetings and teaching.

2006 Nov 10-15, Australia, hosting Vanuatu team of 6 in Brisbane

2006 Nov 16 – Dec 13, Solomon Islands, hills & conference, Vanuatu team, Grant, Jesse.

2007 Feb 1-21, Kenya, Revival meetings and teaching, with Joy, Alan,Pat, Jmes.

2007 June 20 – July 17, Fiji, Kenmore Baptist Church mission team, with Mathias.

2007 Sept 2-30, Solomon Islands, Revival village meetings and teaching, with Grant.

2007 Oct 23-39, China, house church leaders Revival teaching, with Grant.

2008 Jan 23 – Feb 12, Atlanta USA, Caribbean cruise, Toronto Church, with Grant

2008 June 1-22, Brazil, Sentinel Group conference with George Otis, visited revival towns.

2008 Sept 19 – Oct 7, Fiji, revival meetings.

2008 Dec 26 – Jan 19, Myanmar/Burma, with Jonathan’s mission team, Revival teaching.

2009 June 25 – July 6, Alaska cruise, Toronto Church meetings.

2009 July 7-14, Fiji, Revival meetings, with KY.

2010 April 13-21, Malaysia, Revival church meetings and teaching, KY, Julian & June.

2010 June 22 – July 19, Vanuatu, Revival village meetings with Ben, Heidi.

2011 Jan 1-9, Myanmar/Burma, Son’s team, Revival teaching for pastors and leaders.

2011 Jan 10-31, Thailand, Revival meetings in Baptist Churches and renewal groups.

2011 June 20 – July 6, Vanuatu, Revival village meetings.

2012 Jan 5-18, Myanmar/Burma, Son’s team, Revival teaching for leaders.

2012 March 2-14, Caribbean cruise, Toronto Church meetings with Joel, Candice, Jim.

2012 June 22 – July 18, Vanuatu, Revival village meetings with Andrew.

2012 Nov 5-20, Indonesia, Bali Church Growth Conference, Luis Bush.

2013 June 11 – July 1, Vanuatu, village meetings with Joel, Candice, Aggie, Hannah.

2013 July 16 – Aug 4, Germany, churches revival meetings.

2013 August 5-9, Israel visit, Christ Church hospice in Old City, Jerusalem.

2013 Oct 108, Fiji, wedding and revival groups.

2014 July 15-30. Vanuatu, Revival village meetings with Andrew.

2014 Aug 16-24, Nepal, Bible School Holy Spirit in Ministry teaching with Andrew.

2014 Aug 25 – Sept 4, Thailand, Baptist Churches meetings and teaching with Andrew.

2015 June 26 – July 19, Vanuatu, Revival village meetings with Andrew, Noel, Ben.

2015 Aug 14-25, Solomon Islands, Revival church meetings.

2016 June 24 – July 11, Vanuatu, village meetings with Dante, Andrew, Noel, Stan.

2017 Jan 9-31, Australia, hosting Vanuatu team of 5 in Brisbane and Rockhampton.

2017, June 12-24, Vanuatu, Revival village meetings with Dante, Emily, Daphne & Stan

2017-2018, Dec 26-Jan 3, Myanmar, with Jonathan & Melinda & families

2018, June 24-July 9, Vanauatu, with Dante, Ben, Scott, Sergie, Blake, Dylan,

2018, October 1-31, Bicton Uniting Church, WA, Living in the Spirit

2019, Sept 24 – Oct 8, Vanuatu, Pentecost with Christine & Robert

2023, Sept 12-28, Vanuatu, Pentecost with David Scarlett

2024, Feb 4 – March 13, Bali, Kuta Church (KICC), with Lyn & Phil

2025, Jan 28–Feb 12, May 22-June 13, Bali, Kuta Church Feb 2, June 8, November 16.

Most trips involved teams from Brisbane working with local teams.
Photo Albums of many of these mission trips are on Facebook albums:
https://www.facebook.com/geoff.waugh1/photos_albums

Web Links:

Renewal Journal – www.renewaljournal.com

Facebook – www.facebook.com/geoff.waugh1

Photo Albums –
https://renewaljournal.wordpress.com/2016/03/06/facebook-album-index/

Topics Index

Authors Index

Revivals Index

General Blogs Index

Blogs Index 1: Revivals (briefer than Revivals Index)
Blogs Index 2: Mission (international stories)
Blogs Index 3: Miracles (supernatural events)
Blogs Index 4: Devotional (including testimonies)
Blogs index 5: Church (Christianity in action)
Blogs Index 6: Chapters (blogs from books)
Blogs Index 7: Images (photos & videos)

Christian ministry, church, church growth, evangelism, revival , ,

2 Million Brits are trying church again

by Geoff 19 May 2025 1 Comment

2 Million Brits are trying church again

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2 million Brits are trying church again
Renewal Journal – Revivals Index: https://renewaljournal.com/revivals-index/
Permissions: You can reproduce any Renewal Journal resource freely, including in print.

SEE ALSO:
Revival hits army base – 2018
Revivals Across the South of USA – 2018
Revival in America’s Largest University – 2018
A ‘surprising work of God’ in Asbury chapel – 2023
Fresh Outpouring at Asbury University – 2023
American Revival Reports – 2023
A year of revival on college campuses – 2023
Revivals in 2024
Largest baptism events in US history – May 2025
UK – revival among gen z, 18-25-years-old, 2025
Revival Reports 2025

Revival reports – including 21st century

“You Won’t Believe Why 2 Million Brits Are Trying Church Again – And It’s Not What You Think”

Church in the UK is having a surprise comeback. In fact, church attendance has jumped by 50% in the last six years, and around 2 million people have tried going recently (yes, really – YouGov says so!). Curious why? Here are six eye-opening reasons people are giving church another go – and maybe why you should too.

1. People Are Happier There – No Joke
Feeling a bit lost, lonely or low? You’re not alone. But here’s something interesting: 71% of churchgoers say they’re happy with life right now, and 75% feel their life has real meaning. That’s miles ahead of people who don’t go. Especially for young women, going to church is linked to feeling less anxious or depressed. Jesus once said he came to give “life in all its fullness” – sounds like he might’ve been onto something.

2. It’s Where People Ask the Big Stuff
Where did I come from? Why am I here? What’s the point of it all? If those questions have been rattling around your brain, you’re not alone – loads of people are heading to church to explore life’s biggest questions. And it’s totally okay not to have the answers. Most churches run chilled, friendly courses like Alpha or Christianity Explored, where you can bring your doubts and chat honestly.

3. It’s Not About the Building – It’s About Belonging
One big surprise? Church is actually full of people – real, supportive, diverse, messy people. And research shows it’s helping people, especially young adults, feel more connected. Over 60% of young churchgoers say they feel close to their community, compared to just 25% of non-churchgoers. Whether you’re an introvert, extrovert, thinker, feeler, young, old – there’s room for you.

4. You Get to Be Part of Something Bigger
We all want to feel like we matter – like we’re making a difference. Church helps with that too. It’s not about watching from the sidelines – it’s about joining in. Churchgoers are way more likely to volunteer, support charities, and give to food banks. If you’ve been craving purpose or a chance to help, church might surprise you.

5. It Gives You Space to Breathe
Life moves fast – too fast. But church is one of the few places that actually invites you to pause. To pray. To think. To be still. And guess what? More and more young adults are turning to spiritual practices like prayer to cope with stress. Church isn’t a magic fix, but it is a place to take a breath and bring your worries to a God who listens.

6. It’s Actually a Celebration
Why all the singing on Sundays? Because church is celebrating something huge: Jesus’ resurrection – the moment Christians believe changed everything. It’s about joy, not just ritual. Jesus claimed to bring forgiveness, freedom, and eternal life – and that’s something worth singing about. Church won’t solve all your problems. But it might just connect you with the One who can.

So… maybe it’s time to give church a try.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. You don’t even need to believe yet. But you might just find more than you expected. (Via Tev Tim Yau)

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Revival stirs in UK

May be an image of 4 people and text that says "CP) UK Churches Experience Surge in New Commitments to Christ Since the Pandemic"
The Christian Post  May 2025
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New research reveals that twice as many people in the UK are committing to follow Christ compared to five years ago. Both large and small churches are seeing spiritual growth, with a notable rise in young people exploring faith. Despite changing attendance patterns, churches are adapting and confidently sharing hope, fueling a quiet revival across the nation.

UK churches see twice as many people commit to following Christ since pandemic: research

By Christian Daily International , 

Churches are seeing twice as many people committing to following Jesus Christ compared to five years ago, according to the latest research report titled “Changing Church” published by the Evangelical Alliance in the United Kingdom.

The findings reinforce related research disclosed recently in “The Quiet Revival” Report by the Bible Society showing an increase in young men becoming Christians.

Danny Webster, director of advocacy for the U.K. Evangelical Alliance, commented in a news update that “more people are approaching churches and exploring the Christian faith — and in this area smaller churches are seeing salvation at a comparable rate to large churches.”

“What I’m seeing as I travel around the country are churches that are adapting well to the landscape, serving their communities wholeheartedly and growing numerically as they confidently share the hope of Jesus with those around them.

“There’s an openness to the Christian faith, especially among young people, which is reflected in our new Changing Church report. The next few years may well be even more dramatic in this time of spiritual openness.”

The data showed that average church attendance has been upsurging by 13% since January 2020, which is still considered an “underestimate of what’s happening across the U.K.” by Webster.

Larger churches have grown at the same time as smaller churches shrunk, he said, meaning that “the overall attendance change across all the churches surveyed was 22%, with larger churches seeing significant growth disproportionately contributing to that number.”

Churches with 47 or fewer members dipped by 15%, but a quarter of churches with more than 165 members grew by 21%.

The Evangelical Alliance had anticipated a decline in weekly church attendance, a trend now confirmed by data showing a drop from 90% in 2020 to 78% in 2025. However, most respondents who no longer attend weekly still participate in church gatherings about three times per month.

“The changes to church life we are witnessing are not evenly distributed, and beyond the findings of this research more is needed to understand how different denominations are faring, how churches in different parts of the country are growing or declining,” wrote Webster.

“What is clear is that in the UK people are coming to know Jesus as His good news is confidently shared. It is an encouragement for us to continue to follow Him, and help others come to know Him.”

See the full report here.

This article was originally published by Christian Daily International. 

SEE ALSO

Revivals Index – history’s mighty revivals

Revival hits army base – 2018
Revivals Across the South of USA – 2018
Revival in America’s Largest University – 2018
A ‘surprising work of God’ in Asbury chapel – 2023
Fresh Outpouring at Asbury University – 2023
American Revival Reports – 2023
A year of revival on college campuses – 2023
Revivals in 2024
Largest baptism events in US history – May 2025
UK – revival among gen z, 18-25-years-old, 2025
Revival Reports 2025

England – 2 million Brits are trying church again – 2025

Revival Blogs

Blogs Index 1: Revivals

GENERAL BLOGS INDEX

BLOGS INDEX 1: REVIVALS (BRIEFER THAN REVIVALS INDEX)

BLOGS INDEX 2: MISSION (INTERNATIONAL STORIES)

BLOGS INDEX 3: MIRACLES (SUPERNATURAL EVENTS)

BLOGS INDEX 4: DEVOTIONAL (INCLUDING TESTIMONIES)

BLOGS INDEX 5: CHURCH (CHRISTIANITY IN ACTION)

BLOGS INDEX 6: CHAPTERS (BLOGS FROM BOOKS)

BLOGS INDEX 7: IMAGES (PHOTOS AND ALBUMS)

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Baptisms, Christian ministry, church growth, revival , , , , ,

Largest baptism events in US history – May-June 2025

by Geoff 19 May 2025 2 Comments

Largest baptism events in US history
May-June 2025

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Largest baptism events in US history – May 2025
MORE REVIVAL REPORTS
North America – Current Revival in America’s Largest University – 2018
North America – American Revival Reports – 2023
North America – Fresh Outpouring at Asbury University – 2023
North America – A year of revival on college campuses – 2023
North America & Europe – Revivals in 2024
Revival Reports – 2025 – https://renewaljournal.com/2025/05/14/revival-reports-2025/

Renewal Journal – a chronicle of renewal and revival: www.renewaljournal.com

Over 7,750 Baptized at Huntington Beach in Largest Single-Day Baptism in US History

More than 7,750 people were baptized in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Huntington Beach, California, in an event organizers say marked the largest single-day baptism in American history. Hosted by Oceans Church and led by Pastor Mark Francey, the event dubbed “Baptise California” drew approximately 30,000 attendees from more than 300 churches across the state. Participants of all ages publicly professed their faith through baptisms, either in the ocean or in portable baptisteries positioned along the beach. You were part of the largest water baptism in American history,” Francey told the crowd. “Who thinks that God could do it in the other states of America?” The mass baptism, now in its second year, exceeded last year’s turnout of 6,000 and is seen by organizers as a spiritual catalyst for an even larger national event planned for next month. Called “Baptize America,” the initiative aims to unite thousands of churches across the United States in what is described as “the largest synchronized baptism in history.”

The next event will be held on June 8 and falls on Pentecost Sunday, a date that commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles in the Christian tradition. Organizers believe the timing is symbolic and strategic, pointing to revival and national spiritual renewal. “We’re going to flood local churches in every single one of our states, and we’re going to see a mass water baptism across our land,” Francey said. The Baptize America campaign seeks to unite churches from diverse backgrounds around a common theological practice: the public declaration of faith through water baptism. Its website states, “This is not about any single church. It’s about churches across the nation united, pursuing the fulfillment of the Great Commission.” The event also featured worship performances from prominent Christian artists, including Bethel Music, Kari Jobe and Cody Carnes. Among those baptized was a 71-year-old woman named Joanne, who shared with organizers that she had considered baptism for four decades but never followed through.

Organizers hope the June event will signal a growing movement of national repentance and unity in the Church, with the website declaring, “If God can do it in California, He can do it in any state. And if He can do it in America, He can do it in any other nation in the world.” The Baptize America team is recruiting churches across the U.S. to join the June 8 movement. “Join the movement today,” the site urges. “Our nation and the nations of the earth will bear witness that God is not done with America. It will be saved.” In a previous interview with the Christian Post, Francey said he hopes to take Baptise California not only across America but around the world. “I think that when God wants to do something, he kind of creates the right atmosphere and ecosystem for it to happen,” he said. Francey said he got a vision from God to promote baptism to help the local church about two years ago while praying. “I don’t know where God wants us to go. But we’re kind of prepared for whatever He wants us to do,” the pastor said.

“Ultimately, our desire is to make the Day of Pentecost the day that Christendom celebrates water baptism,” he said. “I think it happens organically every once in a while, but the Book of Acts was obviously started with a prayer meeting that led to bold preaching in the public square, then to a public declaration of faith that 3,000 believed, and then were baptized.” Each person baptized at the events hosted by Baptize California will be provided with resources from an online database to help them connect with a local church of their choice, he added. “This isn’t like a parachurch organization that’s going to kind of blow in and blow out, just get a crowd and just trying to get people hyped. Our heart was to unite the local church, to work together, to really reach our world, and then to build a kingdom by connecting all of these people that are making a decision to get connected to the local church,” Francey said. “For us, the win isn’t the count of how many got baptized, really, it’s going to be how that translates into how we are getting people connected to the local church.”

Source: Christian Post

 

Baptize California saw 12,000 baptized in 2 days

https://reachfm.ca/articles/god-lit-a-match-baptize-california-saw-12000-baptized-in-2-days

A crowd that gathered at Huntington Beach for the ‘Baptize California’ event on May 18 and 19, 2024. (Baptize California/Facebook)

A total of 12,000 people were recently baptized over two days in California in what is being called the nation’s largest baptism event to date.

“You can smell another Great Awakening in the air like rain before it hits,” Pastor Mark Francey, founder of the event, shared in an interview with CBN. “God lit a match yesterday! If God can do this in the church in California, it can — and it will — happen in the rest of America!”

The event was called ‘Baptize California’ and was held on May 18 and 19. The biggest service happened at Huntington Beach where 6,000 people were baptized, many in the ocean.

Across the state, a host of other churches also participated and collectively baptized an additional 6,000 people.

Pastor Francey leads Oceans Church in California. Last year he hosted the event ‘Baptize SoCal’ which led to 4,200 people being baptized. The event held in 2023 was at the infamous Pirate’s Cove, the same place many were baptized during The Jesus Movement in the 60s and 70s, portrayed in the recent film The Jesus Revolution.

“My wife, Rachelle, and I could hardly sleep thinking about how God could be so kind to let us be a part of the largest baptism in the history of America,” Francey said. “We are proof that God really can use anybody.”

The event lasted over 5 hours and included an evening concert on the beach.

“We saw hearts healed, lives changed, and many souls committing themselves to Christ, and getting baptized,” says Rachelle, Francey’s wife, on Instagram. “This is a testament to God’s enduring love for California and His unyielding desire to see His people renewed and restored.”

June 8, Pentecost Sunday 2025

26,000 Baptized across U.S. in Historic One-Day Event

Revival swept the nation as thousands declared Jesus as Lord. Pentecost Sunday made history once again.
Michael Foust
 Jun 09, 2025

26,000 Baptized across U.S. in Historic One-Day Event

More than 26,000 individuals across the United States were baptized Sunday in what is believed to be the largest synchronized baptism event in the nation’s history. Dubbed “Baptize America,” the one-day initiative saw 26,657 individuals baptized and 6,445 salvations recorded across 1,080 baptism events hosted by 650 churches in all 50 states, according to preliminary numbers. Organizers on Sunday night said about 10 percent of churches had yet to report.  

The baptisms took place in a wide variety of areas — from small rural churches to outdoor locations like Pirates Cove in Corona del Mar, Calif. In Colorado Springs, Zeal Church held baptisms indoors at Citadel Mall, with hundreds of onlookers. 

It was the brainchild of Oceans Church (Calif.) Pastor Mark Francey, who previously helped organize three other mass baptism events: 2023’s Baptize SoCal, 2024’s Baptize California and another Baptize California event this year. Those gatherings, like this year, saw thousands baptized.

“This wasn’t just about a moment in the water; it was about launching people into a life with Jesus, surrounded by a community that can help them grow,” Francey said Sunday. “We witnessed countless personal transformations and families baptized together; it was a movement of hope.”

Francey announced on Sunday that Baptize America will become an annual event held each year on Pentecost Sunday. 

“This is just the beginning,” Francey said. “We believe Pentecost Sunday will be marked yearly by revival, renewal, and restoration across America.”

 

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Largest baptism events in US history – May 2025
MORE REVIVAL REPORTS
North America – Current Revival in America’s Largest University – 2018
North America – American Revival Reports – 2023
North America – Fresh Outpouring at Asbury University – 2023
North America – A year of revival on college campuses – 2023
North America & Europe – Revivals in 2024
Revival Reports 2025 – https://renewaljournal.com/2025/05/14/revival-reports-2025/

Renewal Journal – a chronicle of renewal and revival

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Revival Reports, 2025

by Geoff 14 May 2025 5 Comments

Revival Reports, 2025

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Revival Reports 2025 – https://renewaljournal.com/2025/05/14/revival-reports-2025/
SEE ALSO:
North America – Current Revival in America’s Largest University – 2018
North America – American Revival Reports – 2023
North America – Fresh Outpouring at Asbury University – 2023
North America – A year of revival on college campuses – 2023
North America & Europe – Revivals in 2024
North America – Revival continues in Kentucky – 2025
North America – Largest baptism events in US history – May 2025
North America & Global – Revival Reports 2025
England – 2 million Brits are trying church again – 2025
UK & USA – Revival among Gen Z, 18-25 year old – 2025

Renewal Journal – a chronicle of renewal and revival: www.renewaljournal.com

 

Reports from England & Europe

Something wonderful seems to be stirring…

📷 Snapshot #1: Friday
In Hackney, East London hundreds of young people from three local churches stay up all night to pray and seek God. Al Gordon writes “I’ve never seen anything like it. There’s a remarkable sense of consecrating love setting apart the young, calling them to holiness.”
📷 Snapshot #2: Saturday
In Trafalgar Square thousands gather to hear the gospel. Many healed and saved. Evangelist Daniel Chand sums it up in one word: “Historic”.
📷 Snapshot #3: Sunday
St Aldates, Oxford where George Whitfield gave his life to Christ, is overflowing. So many young people give their lives to Christ they lose count. Steven Foster says: “It broke our systems. From the start of the service it felt like literally anything could happen and probably would. It was mostly Gen Z responding but also prison leavers and people in recovery.”
Jesus tells us to be alert to the signs of the times, but then again we need hope not hype.
And so, after 25 years of 24-7 Prayer, contending non-stop for the tide to turn, refusing to believe for anything less than revival, I am hesitant even to type these words: something seems to be shifting at last. Just when it felt like failure. When in our darkest moment we found ourselves wondering if it had all been a waste of time.
I dare to believe because this last weekend is just the latest iteration of something bigger that seems to be happening. Over Easter
– many churches reported bumper attendances.
– 12000 were baptised in France one of the most secular nations on earth
– 419 were baptised by our friends at New Life Church in Colorado Springs.
– 469 gave their lives to Christ at Audacious church in Manchester
– 116 got saved at Soul Church in Norwich
And meanwhile – beyond events, programmes, conferences and successful services – the long-term societal markers also seem to be shifting.
– Public intellectuals from Tom Holland to Jordan Peterson to Ayaan Hirsi Ali are arguing for faith in God.
– Influencers with millions of followers are professing faith – some even getting baptised.
– Columns in the Wall Street Journal and the London Times are reporting a return to religion amongst the young. The Spectator even using the (over-excited) headline ‘Revival’.
– More than 7000 school classrooms have now been turned into prayer rooms thanks to Prayer Spaces in Schools
– 25% of Australians are saying they’d accept an invitation to church and 70% that they talk to the God they’re no longer supposed to believe in!
Now if you’re reading this and thinking ‘it doesn’t feel like that where I live,’ all I can say is this:
Firstly, let’s pray! It doesn’t matter how small the spark, if you pour petrol on it you can start a fire. Pray on your own. Pray with others. Set up a 24-7 Prayer Room.
Secondly, let’s be confident in sharing our faith. There are clear signs of a growing spiritual hunger in the land – people are more open than they were to the Lord. These things always begin in certain hotspots before they spread out.
Thirdly, let’s invest in young people. The turning is most marked among Gen Z. Let’s not miss this moment of opportunity.
(2024 report)
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Revival stirs in the UK

May be an image of 4 people and text that says "CP) UK Churches Experience Surge in New Commitments to Christ Since the Pandemic"
The Christian Post  May 2025
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New research reveals that twice as many people in the UK are committing to follow Christ compared to five years ago. Both large and small churches are seeing spiritual growth, with a notable rise in young people exploring faith. Despite changing attendance patterns, churches are adapting and confidently sharing hope, fueling a quiet revival across the nation.

UK churches see twice as many people commit to following Christ since pandemic: research

By Christian Daily International , 

Churches are seeing twice as many people committing to following Jesus Christ compared to five years ago, according to the latest research report titled “Changing Church” published by the Evangelical Alliance in the United Kingdom.

The findings reinforce related research disclosed recently in “The Quiet Revival” Report by the Bible Society showing an increase in young men becoming Christians.

Danny Webster, director of advocacy for the U.K. Evangelical Alliance, commented in a news update that “more people are approaching churches and exploring the Christian faith — and in this area smaller churches are seeing salvation at a comparable rate to large churches.”

“What I’m seeing as I travel around the country are churches that are adapting well to the landscape, serving their communities wholeheartedly and growing numerically as they confidently share the hope of Jesus with those around them.

“There’s an openness to the Christian faith, especially among young people, which is reflected in our new Changing Church report. The next few years may well be even more dramatic in this time of spiritual openness.”

The data showed that average church attendance has been upsurging by 13% since January 2020, which is still considered an “underestimate of what’s happening across the U.K.” by Webster.

Larger churches have grown at the same time as smaller churches shrunk, he said, meaning that “the overall attendance change across all the churches surveyed was 22%, with larger churches seeing significant growth disproportionately contributing to that number.”

Churches with 47 or fewer members dipped by 15%, but a quarter of churches with more than 165 members grew by 21%.

The Evangelical Alliance had anticipated a decline in weekly church attendance, a trend now confirmed by data showing a drop from 90% in 2020 to 78% in 2025. However, most respondents who no longer attend weekly still participate in church gatherings about three times per month.

“The changes to church life we are witnessing are not evenly distributed, and beyond the findings of this research more is needed to understand how different denominations are faring, how churches in different parts of the country are growing or declining,” wrote Webster.

“What is clear is that in the UK people are coming to know Jesus as His good news is confidently shared. It is an encouragement for us to continue to follow Him, and help others come to know Him.”

See the full report here.

This article was originally published by Christian Daily International. 

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UK: Generation Z sparks Bible boom

UK Bible sales soar by 87% as young people rediscover faith in uncertain times.

In a striking cultural shift, Bible sales in the UK nearly doubled over five years, rising from £2.69 million in 2019 to £5.02 million in 2024. While general non-fiction sales fell, the hunger for God’s Word grew – driven especially by Generation Z.
Surveys reveal that 62% of 18- to 24-year-olds describe themselves as spiritual, compared to only 35% of those over 65. Far fewer Gen Z identify as atheists (13%) than millennials (20%) or Gen X (25%).

Publishers and ministries note that young people are picking up the Bible to find hope, identity, and guidance amid mental health struggles and post-pandemic uncertainty. “The Bible has something important to say to young people,” says Mark Woods of Bible Society.

Modern translations like the Good News Bible: Youth Edition – featuring notes, infographics, and space for reflection – have nearly doubled in sales since 2021. The NIV and Good News Bible now outsell the traditional King James Version.

Source: Bible Society

Joel News, October 16, 2025

UK: Churches lead 420 projects transforming Bristol’s communities

Across Bristol, churches are stepping up with hundreds of projects tackling deep needs – from warm spaces for the lonely to support for children, refugees, and the homeless.

A new report reveals 427 active church-led initiatives across the city, run by 195 churches. These include children’s programs, mental health support, community cafés, and food insecurity relief. Many are part of the Warm Welcome Campaign, offering free entry, warmth, listening ears, and practical help to thousands.
The study, by Good Faith Partnership and Christian Action Bristol, found two-thirds of churches run social action projects, with 75% focusing on children or community hubs. Almost 70% work with local charities to tackle homelessness, addiction, and refugee integration.

Church leaders emphasised that collaboration is key. “Inter-church partnerships are working well, both locally and across the city,” the report notes. “Churches are more than places of worship – they’re vital contributors to a thriving Bristol,” says Alisha Cole of Good Faith Partnership.

The authors highlight a biblical vision: “If the Church is the body of Christ, made to reflect Him, then it has a radical mission to contribute to the flourishing of the places it exists in.”

Source: Good Faith Partnership, Christian Action Bristol

Joel News, October 16, 2025

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IRAN

Two thousand Iranians turning to Jesus every day

By Charles Gardner —
underground church Iran

The Bible Society, which operates around the globe, reports that more than 2,000 Iranians are turning to Jesus every single day! One 92-year-old believer, whenever she’s on a bus, pulls out a small book and asks her neighbor to help her read the tiny font.

In fact, she is secretly getting strangers to read the gospels. Every time she does it, the person sitting next to her ends up taking a New Testament home.

This is brave work in a land where leaving Islam is potentially punishable by death. But the Iranian revival is good news for Israel – and the Jews! For these dear people have been taught by their government and mullahs that Israel is their archenemy.

But now that they have opened their lives to Jesus, the Jewish Messiah, they find they are also growing to love the Jewish people, longing and praying for a restoration of the peace that the two nations once enjoyed.

This is profoundly good news for those who have eyes to see the bigger picture. For the strict Islamic state of Iran, whose rulers want to wipe out the Jewish people just as Hitler did and who are chief sponsors of monstrous terrorist groups like Hamas, is now the focus of a Christian revival where some two million people have discovered that Jesus, the Jew, is the Savior of the world.

As the mosques shut down in great numbers, passionate Christians are filling the vacuum, though of necessity staying ‘underground’ for now, out of sight of the religious police.

The Islamic foundations are crumbling for the chief sponsors of terrorism, a fact graphically prophesied by the psalmist thousands of years ago when he wrote of them: “Come,” they say, “let us destroy them as a nation, so that Israel’s name is remembered no more. With one mind they plot together, forming an alliance against you.” (Psalm 83:4f)

Among the enemies named are ‘Ishmaelites’ and people from Philistia (Gaza) and Tyre (Lebanon), with Assyria (covering parts of Iran, Iraq, Syria and Turkey) joining them. Does this ring any bells?

Yet the psalmist (Asaph) is not vindictive. He calls on the Lord to bring shame on them so that they will know “that you alone are the Most High over all the earth”. And we are hearing that many in the Muslim/Arab world, even in the strictest of regimes, are indeed discovering the truth of Yeshua.

In the UK too, where Jews feel increasingly threatened and pro-Palestinian marchers are allowed to call for Israel’s demise on the streets of our cities, there is a revival of Christianity, which gives us hope.

After conducting a thorough survey, the Bible Society reports a remarkable fourfold increase in young men aged 18-24 attending church over the last six years.

Amid rumors that Donald Trump is about to announce recognition of a Palestinian State (albeit without Hamas), here in the UK we are hearing reports of a recruiting campaign for Islam within the National Health Service. And even Conservative MPs and peers are making previously unheard-of calls for recognition of ‘Palestine’.

A British TV program has just been rightly lauded for exposing a shocking miscarriage of justice against a host of sub-postmasters wrongly convicted of theft, false accounting and fraud when in fact it was due to a faulty computer system.

But I also believe the monumental miscarriage of justice of modern times has been the grossly misleading narrative – through media, parliament and elsewhere – of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Restored to their ancient land through internationally recognized treaties, not to mention God’s law – their ultimate title deed – they are constantly subjected to a host of lies and propaganda accusing them of stealing what is their own property.

It’s important that we see the big picture of the unfolding spiritual warfare taking place. When Jesus sent out the 72 disciples to spread the gospel (as recorded in Luke 10:19,21), he told them he had given them authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy.

And he was full of joy through the Holy Spirit because God had hidden these things from the wise and learned and revealed them to babes.

It is not the proud and arrogant who will inherit the earth, but the meek and humble. And the latter will also be granted a clear-sighted vision of what is really happening amidst the turmoil of these terrible times which are surely preparing the way for our Lord Yeshua’s return.

As the darkness deepens around the world, especially in the Middle East, the light of Christ is shining ever brighter. It must be tempting for Israelis to feel greatly perplexed.

The psalmist assures us: “Do not fret because of those who are evil… for like the grass they will wither… A little while, and the wicked will be no more… but the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity.” (Psalm 37:1f, 10f)

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Afghanistan
Audio and simple acts of courage

In a bustling Afghan marketplace, a rug vendor was handed a small mp3 player filled with Scripture and devotions in his own language. As he listened to the message of Jesus, tears streamed down his face. Having lost friends and family for questioning Islamic teaching, he now found unexpected hope.

That rug vendor wasn’t just a merchant – he was a tribal chief. He immediately requested a player for each family member. A simple act of evangelism became the start of gospel witness to an entire tribe.
This is just one story from a growing underground movement. Over the past two years, more than 3,000 audio Scripture devices have been distributed across Afghanistan through a partnership between FMI and Keys 4 Kids Ministries.

“Afghanistan is a battleground for extremist ideologies,” says FMI leader Nehemiah. “But in the midst of fear and darkness, the gospel cannot be silenced.”

Despite Taliban control and ongoing threats from jihadist groups, Afghans are responding to the Word. Nehemiah calls believers worldwide to pray – for new listeners, for new believers, and even for the militants themselves. “God is moving in powerful ways,” he says. “Even here.”

Source: FMI, Keys 4 Kids Ministries

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America

California May 3, 2025 – 7,750 baptized

May be an image of text that says "CP) CP) History Made: Over 7, 750 Baptized in Huntington Beach's Record- Record-Breaking Day of Faith"
On May 3, more than 7,750 people from all walks of life were baptized in the Pacific Ocean at Huntington Beach, California, marking the largest single-day baptism in U.S. history. Hosted by Oceans Church and Pastor Mark Francey, the “Baptize California” event united over 300 churches and drew 30,000 attendees for a powerful day of worship, public faith declarations, and spiritual renewal. This historic moment is just the beginning-organizers are now inviting churches nationwide to join “Baptize America” on June 8, aiming for the largest synchronized baptism ever and a wave of revival across the country. If God can do it in California, He can do it anywhere!
A crowd that gathered at Huntington Beach for the ‘Baptize California’ event on May 18 and 19, 2024. (Baptize California/Facebook)

A total of 12,000 people were recently baptized over two days in California in what is being called the nation’s largest baptism event to date.

“You can smell another Great Awakening in the air like rain before it hits,” Pastor Mark Francey, founder of the event, shared in an interview with CBN. “God lit a match yesterday! If God can do this in the church in California, it can — and it will — happen in the rest of America!”

The event was called ‘Baptize California’ and was held on May 18 and 19. The biggest service happened at Huntington Beach where 6,000 people were baptized, many in the ocean.

 

Across the state, a host of other churches also participated and collectively baptized an additional 6,000 people.

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The Return to Religion is a Turn to Jesus

According to Barna’s latest data, two-thirds of all U.S. adults say, “they have made a personal commitment to Jesus that is still important in their life today,” marking a 12-point increase since 2021, a clear indication of “meaningful spiritual renewal in the United States.”

Two significant indicators show how this trend is playing out in the lives of these younger adults, and both are at the heart of exactly how people are seeking answers in religion in general, and Christianity in particular.

Increase in Bible reading

The first is an increase in Bible reading. “For the first time since 2021, we’re seeing an increase in both Bible use and scripture engagement, particularly among younger adults and in men,” says John Plake, the Chief Innovation Officer for American Bible Society. “People are curious about the Bible and Jesus.” As you might expect, this curiosity in Bible reading is leading to a tangible trend: Bible sales. According to data collected by BookScan, sales of Bibles rose 22% last year, a startling statistic considering that most other categories of book sales were flat. And just who is driving this dramatic increase in Bible sales and reading?  Gen Z.

Spiritual longing

The other indicator isn’t as measurable as Bible sales, but it is perhaps even more dramatic. Younger adults are looking for meaning and hope in something that transcends their everyday lives, something Lauren Jackson calls “spiritual longing.”

And just where do people go when confronted with this longing? Jackson says: “I want a god.” This desire for a god follows decades of loneliness, anxiety and growing dissatisfaction amid rising secularization. The rise of the “nones” — those who claim to have no religious affiliation — has made headlines for a long time now, while those who found meaning in religion shrank in numbers and influence. At least it seemed that way, as belief in God was overshadowed by the so-called “New Atheists,” epitomized by Richard Dawkins in his 2008 book, The God Delusion. “America’s secularization,” writes Lauren Jackson in a New York Times op-ed piece, “was an immense social transformation.” By 2021, nearly a third of Americans identified as “nones.” But this shift didn’t lead to more satisfying lives. Quite the opposite. Research shows that those who are less religious “rank lower on key metrics of well-being” than those who have some kind of belief. “They feel less connected to others, less spiritually at peace and they experience less awe and gratitude regularly,” writes Jackson.

Especially among Gen Z — those born between 1997 and 2012 — the rates of loneliness and anxiety have skyrocketed. As Jonathan Haidt concludes in The Anxious Generation, social media bears much of the blame for this “epidemic of mental Illness.” Although Haidt is a self-described atheist, he uses spiritual terms to describe both the impact of and the solution for this destructive trend. “The phone-based life produces spiritual degradation,” he writes, “not just in adolescents, but in all of us.” And what does he suggest anxious and lonely people do to reverse this trend and improve well-being? Engage in “certain spiritual practices.” And more people are engaging in spiritual practice — and becoming genuinely curious about Jesus.

Return to Jesus

One of the places people are apparently looking to satisfy this longing is the multi-season television series called The Chosen. In fact, one-third of all people who have viewed at least a portion of an episode are not believers at all. But they are curious about a show that is telling the greatest story about the greatest person in history.

Reports indicate that people who may have left the Christian faith are returning, partly as they’re “re-exploring Christianity” through The Chosen. Others are agnostics or even atheists who are seeking answers and appreciate the way the show portrays Jesus. By portraying Jesus and his chosen followers as real people with human traits we can identify with, The Chosen is introducing the faithful and curious alike to Jesus by simply inviting them into the story of God’s beautiful plan to offer hope to people living in a time when anxiety, loneliness, and despair are everywhere in our world. And this introduction comes at a critical time: A moment when more and more people desire and seek precisely such an invitation. “Nobody becomes a Christian because they lose the argument,” John Plake posted on his social media page. “It’s because they’re invited on the journey.” That’s what this “return to Jesus” is all about. People are curious, people are watching, and people are joining the journey Jesus invites us to take.

Source: CBNNews  (,  May 18, 2025)

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June 8, Pentecost Sunday 2025

26,000 Baptized across U.S. in Historic One-Day Event

Revival swept the nation as thousands declared Jesus as Lord. Pentecost Sunday made history once again.
Michael Foust
 Jun 09, 2025

26,000 Baptized across U.S. in Historic One-Day Event

More than 26,000 individuals across the United States were baptized Sunday in what is believed to be the largest synchronized baptism event in the nation’s history. Dubbed “Baptize America,” the one-day initiative saw 26,657 individuals baptized and 6,445 salvations recorded across 1,080 baptism events hosted by 650 churches in all 50 states, according to preliminary numbers. Organizers on Sunday night said about 10 percent of churches had yet to report.  

The baptisms took place in a wide variety of areas — from small rural churches to outdoor locations like Pirates Cove in Corona del Mar, Calif. In Colorado Springs, Zeal Church held baptisms indoors at Citadel Mall, with hundreds of onlookers. 

It was the brainchild of Oceans Church (Calif.) Pastor Mark Francey, who previously helped organize three other mass baptism events: 2023’s Baptize SoCal, 2024’s Baptize California and another Baptize California event this year. Those gatherings, like this year, saw thousands baptized.

“This wasn’t just about a moment in the water; it was about launching people into a life with Jesus, surrounded by a community that can help them grow,” Francey said Sunday. “We witnessed countless personal transformations and families baptized together; it was a movement of hope.”

Francey announced on Sunday that Baptize America will become an annual event held each year on Pentecost Sunday. 

“This is just the beginning,” Francey said. “We believe Pentecost Sunday will be marked yearly by revival, renewal, and restoration across America.”

 

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45,000 worship in Angel stadium, July 19, 2025

More than 45,000 people packed Angel Stadium, Anaheim, Los Angeles in California, on Saturday night July 19 for the annual Harvest Crusade, an evangelistic event led by pastor Greg Laurie, with another 200,000 tuning in online and over 500 radio stations broadcasting live across the U.S.

The event featured prominent Christian artists Cody Carnes, Kari Jobe Carnes, Chris Tomlin, Brooke Ligertwood, and We The Kingdom. A highlight of the evening came when the crowd joined in singing “The Blessing” with Kari Jobe and Cody Carnes, a moment Laurie called “truly a taste of Heaven” in a social media post.

In what organizers described as one of the largest responses in the 35-year history of the Harvest Crusades, more than 6,500 people made professions of faith in Jesus Christ. So many individuals came forward during the invitation to follow Christ that the fire marshal was forced to stop the flow of people onto the stadium field, Laurie shared on X (formerly Twitter).

A packed Angel Stadium crowd worships together during the 2025 Harvest Crusade in Anaheim, where more than 45,000 gathered for music, prayer, and a gospel message from Pastor Greg Laurie.
A packed Angel Stadium crowd worships together during the 2025 Harvest Crusade in Anaheim, where more than 45,000 gathered for music, prayer, and a gospel message from Pastor Greg Laurie. Greg Laurie X account

“We prayed this would be one of the greatest Harvest Crusades in our history—and God did exceedingly, abundantly above all we could ask or think,” Laurie posted, paraphrasing from the Bible. He called the moment when he led the crowd in what is often called “the sinner’s prayer” a “holy moment” as thousands filled the aisles.

 

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September 9, 2025, at Oklahoma

Over 1,000 commit to Jesus
May be an image of 2 people, crowd and text that says "CBN NEWS Revival Hits Again! 9,000 at U of Oklahoma, Plus Ohio State Football Players Reach 1,000+ for Jesus"
CBN News
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Revival has hit again! This time at the University of Oklahoma and at Ohio State:
On Tuesday night September 9, 9,000 students gathered to seek God together at the University of Oklahoma’s basketball arena.
And in an event at Ohio State, members of the national champion football team led their second Fall Kickoff event called “An invitation to Jesus.”

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Wednesday, September 10, Charlie Kirk shot

Jesus defeated death
May be a black-and-white image of 1 person and text that says ""Jesus defeated death so you can live" -Charlie Kirk 1993-2025 The Beloved"
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He posted this on X (formerly Twitter) Saturday, September 6, one of his final public messages before he was tragically shot and killed on September 10. He founded Turning Point USA. They arranged his Memorial Service, Wednesday, September 21 at the packed State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, with thousands more in an adjacent stadium.
.
May be an image of 1 person and text that says "Choose prayer. Choose courage. Choose beauty. Choose adventure. Choose family. Choose a life of faith. Most importantly, choose Christ. -ERIKA KIRK FOXLOCAL LOCAL"
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Erika Kirk, the widow of Charlie Kirk, forgave her husband’s accused killer while speaking at his memorial service. His life and bold faith continue to impact millions.

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September 12-13, 2025  Faith Fest, North Carolina

 

‘Changed for Eternity’: 1,000+ Choose Christ at Massive FaithFest 2025 Gathering

Tens of thousands of people gathered recently under a 110-foot cross to seek Jesus Christ at FaithFest in Wilkesboro, NC.  Official numbers have not been released, but reports indicate more than 1,000 attendees made decisions to give their lives to Christ, and approximately 100 were baptized on the spot.

FaithFest reported on Saturday night, September 13, “Closing in on 100 baptisms and more to go! Praise Jesus!”

Organizers stated, “We are still speechless after FaithFest 2025. For the first time ever, we completely sold out – but even greater than that, we saw eternal impact. Salvations. Rededications. Baptisms. Restoration. Revival. The Lord’s Spirit swept through this venue in a way we will never forget. Praise Jesus!”

Pastor Greg Laurie preached at the two-day, weekend event, sharing how God had saved his life when he was a young man, confused and searching for truth.

“Franklin Graham called and asked me to speak at FaithFest in North Carolina. He spoke at it last year and loved it – so I said yes. And what a blessing it was!” Laurie stated Facebook.

“There must have been over 50,000 people over the two nights I had the privilege of speaking. At least 1,000 made commitments to follow Christ—though it’s hard to count precisely, because we weren’t able to have them come forward. Instead, they stood where they were, and we brought New Believers’ Bibles to them—over 1,000 given out! A big thank you to Craig Church for the invitation. And yes… I enjoyed more than my fair share of fried chicken and Southern specialties while I was there!”

 

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September 2025,  Revival stirs in Tennessee

Revival now, not just in history.
May be an image of 1 person and text that says "CBN NEWS 'Blown Away': Hundreds Saved and Baptized as 8,000 Students Seek Jesus at University of Tennessee"
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More than 8,000 college students gathered together to seek God and worship Jesus on Tuesday night at the University of Tennessee for the UniteUS campus event, the ministry reports.
UniteUS is an evangelistic outreach geared toward GenZers that has been presenting the Gospel on multiple college campuses. Their latest stop was the Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.
The ministry reports that approximately 500 students responded to the salvation message, and many were baptized right outside of the arena.

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September 2025,  Students and youth in Florida

University of South Florida, in Tampa.
Evangelism & revival spread.
May be an image of 1 person, crowd and text that says "7000 Students Worship together, 1000 Received Jesus, 300 Baptized: 'God Is Raising Up An '"
More student commitments
May be an image of 2 people and text that says "CBN NEWS UniteUs in Tampa Sees Former Satan Worshipper Baptized, 1,000+ Choose Christ as Lord"

Follow Jesus

CBN News

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The Spirit of God is moving once again in the hearts of thousands of college students, this time at the University of South Florida in Tampa.
Nearly 7,000 young people filled the Yuengling Center to worship Jesus on Thursday night, while hundreds publicly declared their faith at the UniteUS campus event, according to the ministry.
Leaders reported to CBN News that the event saw over 1,000 decisions for Christ and more than 300 water baptisms.
“WHAT A NIGHT TAMPA! There is a move of God happening in Gen Z and we got to witness just a glimpse of it tonight. Thank you, Jesus.” Unite US wrote on Instagram.
“This generation won’t be silenced! Revival at the Yuengling Center on the campus of the University of South Florida….God is raising up an army!” Pastor Travis Johnson said.

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September 21, Sunday in one church in Texas.

“Never seen that before.”  God’s Spirit impacting them.
May be an image of ‎1 person and ‎text that says "‎NEW @BN ש 682 BAPTISMS DEAD. BURIED. RAISED. 'Caught in a Hurricane of Grace': Nearly 700 Baptized at Texas Church During Sunday Service‎"‎‎
CBN News
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A Texas church is celebrating how “God is changing lives in miraculous ways,” after nearly 700 people were baptized and hundreds more responded to the Gospel message during a powerful Sunday service.
Josh Howerton, senior pastor at Lakepointe Church in Rockwall, Texas, recently reflected on what took place during a September 21 service where hundreds of people showed up to hear the Word of God.
“Never seen anything like today. Stairs filled with people with Bibles on their laps bc seats were full,” he wrote on Facebook. “Almost SEVEN HUNDRED PEOPLE baptized this weekend at Lakepointe. Hundreds responding on the spot. The tide is turning.”

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October 2025  Bring your Bible to School Day

Bring your Bible to School Day, USA, involved more than 50,000 schools, with participation planned in all 50 states. The 2025 event was held on Thursday, October 2.
Millions were involved.
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USA: Generation Z’s quiet turn to Jesus

“I want a god.” This striking confession from a Gen Z young adult sums up a surprising trend in the West today. After decades of growing secularism, the tide is turning – especially among the young.

New Barna data reveals two-thirds of US adults now say their commitment to Jesus remains important, marking a 12-point rise since 2021. Bible sales are also soaring – up 22% last year – driven largely by Gen Z’s curiosity about faith.
Why the shift? After years marked by loneliness, anxiety and an empty digital life, many are searching for meaning that transcends their screens. “The phone-based life produces spiritual degradation,” writes atheist Jonathan Haidt. His solution? Engage in spiritual practices.

This spiritual longing is drawing many to Scripture and to Jesus himself. The popular series The Chosen plays a key role, with a third of viewers identifying as non-believers or agnostics. By portraying Jesus and his disciples as relatable humans with divine purpose, the show invites seekers into God’s story.

John Plake from the American Bible Society puts it plainly: “Nobody becomes a Christian because they lose the argument. It’s because they’re invited on the journey.”

Source: Barna Group

Joel News, October 16, 2025
SEE ALSO

North America – Current Revival in America’s Largest University – 2018
North America – American Revival Reports – 2023
North America – Fresh Outpouring at Asbury University – 2023
North America – A year of revival on college campuses – 2023
North America – Revivals in 2024
North America – Revival continues in Kentucky – 2025
North America – Largest baptism events in US history – May 2025
North America & Global – Revival Reports 2025
England – 2 million Brits are trying church again – 2025

RENEWAL JOURNAL

GENERAL BLOGS INDEX 

BLOGS INDEX 1: REVIVALS(BRIEFER THAN REVIVALS INDEX)

BLOGS INDEX 2: MISSION(INTERNATIONAL STORIES)

BLOGS INDEX 3: MIRACLES(SUPERNATURAL EVENTS)

BLOGS INDEX 4: DEVOTIONAL (INCLUDING TESTIMONIES) 

BLOGS INDEX 5: CHURCH(CHRISTIANITY IN ACTION)

BLOGS INDEX 6: CHAPTERS (BLOGS FROM BOOKS)

BLOGS INDEX 7: IMAGES (PHOTOS AND ALBUMS)

BACK TO MAIN PAGE

 

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Revival Reports 2025 – https://renewaljournal.com/2025/05/14/revival-reports-2025/
SEE ALSO:
North America – Current Revival in America’s Largest University – 2018
North America – American Revival Reports – 2023
North America – Fresh Outpouring at Asbury University – 2023
North America – A year of revival on college campuses – 2023
North America & Europe – Revivals in 2024

North America – Revival continues in Kentucky – 2025
North America – Largest baptism events in US history – May 2025
UK & USA – Revival among Gen Z, 18-25 year old – 2025
North America & Global – Revival Reports 2025

Renewal Journal – a chronicle of renewal and revival

Bible guidance, Bible prophecies, Bible Study, Christian life, Christian ministry, crucifixion, Geoff Waugh, Jesus, Jesus Christ , ,

Prophecies Fulfilled

by Geoff 29 April 2025 1 Comment

Prophecies Fulfilled

Appendix 6 in The Story of Jesus

The Story of Jesus – free PDF eBook
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The Story of Jesus

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The Story of Jesus

Appendix 6:  Prophecies Fulfilled

Summary

Then he said to them, ‘Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! 26 Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?’ 27 Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures.  …

 ‘These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you—that everything written about me in the law of Moses, the prophets, and the Psalms must be fulfilled.’ Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, 46 and he said to them, ‘Thus it is written, that the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem.

(Luke 24:25-27, 44-47)

  

Prophecies Jesus Fulfilled

44 Prophecies Jesus Christ Fulfilled
Prophecies About Jesus Old Testament
Scripture		 New Testament
Fulfillment
1 Messiah would be born of a woman. Genesis 3:15 Matthew 1:20
Galatians 4:4
2 Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. Micah 5:2 Matthew 2:1
Luke 2:4-6
3 Messiah would be born of a virgin. Isaiah 7:14 Matthew 1:22-23
Luke 1:26-31
4 Messiah would come from the line of Abraham. Genesis 12:3
Genesis 22:18		 Matthew 1:1
Romans 9:5
5 Messiah would be a descendant of Isaac. Genesis 17:19
Genesis 21:12		 Luke 3:34
6 Messiah would be a descendant of Jacob. Numbers 24:17 Matthew 1:2
7 Messiah would come from the tribe of Judah. Genesis 49:10 Luke 3:33
Hebrews 7:14
8 Messiah would be heir to King David’s throne. 2 Samuel 7:12-13
Isaiah 9:7		 Luke 1:32-33
Romans 1:3
9 Messiah’s throne will be anointed and eternal. Psalm 45:6-7
Daniel 2:44		 Luke 1:33
Hebrews 1:8-12
10 Messiah would be called Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14 Matthew 1:23
11 Messiah would spend a season in Egypt. Hosea 11:1 Matthew 2:14-15
12 A massacre of children would happen at Messiah’s birthplace. Jeremiah 31:15 Matthew 2:16-18
13 A messenger would prepare the way for Messiah Isaiah 40:3-5 Luke 3:3-6
14 Messiah would be rejected by his own people. Psalm 69:8
Isaiah 53:3		 John 1:11
John 7:5
15 Messiah would be a prophet. Deuteronomy 18:15 Acts 3:20-22
16 Messiah would be preceded by Elijah. Malachi 4:5-6 Matthew 11:13-14
17 Messiah would be declared the Son of God. Psalm 2:7 Matthew 3:16-17
18 Messiah would be called a Nazarene. Isaiah 11:1 Matthew 2:23
19 Messiah would bring light to Galilee. Isaiah 9:1-2 Matthew 4:13-16
20 Messiah would speak in parables. Psalm 78:2-4
Isaiah 6:9-10		 Matthew 13:10-15,34-35
21 Messiah would be sent to heal the broken hearted. Isaiah 61:1-2 Luke 4:18-19
22 Messiah would be a priest after the order of  Melchizedek. Psalm 110:4 Hebrews 5:5-6
23 Messiah would be called King. Psalm 2:6
Zechariah 9:9		 Matthew 27:37
Mark 11:7-11
24 Messiah would be praised by children. Psalm 8:2 Matthew 21:16
25 Messiah would be betrayed. Psalm 41:9
Zechariah 11:12-13		 Luke 22:47-48
Matthew 26:14-16
26 Messiah’s price: money would be used to buy a potter’s field. Zechariah 11:12-13 Matthew 27:9-10
27 Messiah would be falsely accused. Psalm 35:11 Mark 14:57-58
28 Messiah would be silent before his accusers. Isaiah 53:7 Mark 15:4-5
29 Messiah would be spat upon and struck. Isaiah 50:6 Matthew 26:67
30 Messiah would be hated without cause. Psalm 35:19
Psalm 69:4		 John 15:24-25
31 Messiah would be crucified with criminals. Isaiah 53:12 Matthew 27:38
Mark 15:27-28
32 Messiah would be given vinegar to drink. Psalm 69:21 Matthew 27:34
John 19:28-30
33 Messiah’s hands and feet would be pierced. Psalm 22:16
Zechariah 12:10		 John 20:25-27
34 Messiah would be mocked and ridiculed. Psalm 22:7-8 Luke 23:35
35 Soldiers would gamble for Messiah’s garments. Psalm 22:18 Luke 23:34
Matthew 27:35-36
36 Messiah’s bones would not be broken. Exodus 12:46
Psalm 34:20		 John 19:33-36
37 Messiah would be forsaken by God. Psalm 22:1 Matthew 27:46
38 Messiah would pray for his enemies. Psalm 109:4 Luke 23:34
39 Soldiers would pierce Messiah’s side. Zechariah 12:10 John 19:34
40 Messiah would be buried with the rich. Isaiah 53:9 Matthew 27:57-60
41 Messiah would resurrect from the dead. Psalm 16:10
Psalm 49:15		 Matthew 28:2-7
Acts 2:22-32
42 Messiah would ascend to heaven. Psalm 24:7-10 Mark 16:19
Luke 24:51
43 Messiah would be seated at God’s right hand. Psalm 68:18
Psalm 110:1		 Mark 16:19
Matthew 22:44
44 Messiah would be a sacrifice for sin. Isaiah 53:5-12 Romans 5:6-8

 

Reference: About.com Christianity

 

A list of 100 fulfilled prophecies

SUBJECT OT Prophecy NT Fulfilment
As the Son of God Ps 2:7 Lk 1:32,35
As the seed of the woman Ge 3:15 Ga 4:4
As the seed of Abraham Ge 17:7 22:18 Ga 3:16
As the seed of Isaac Ge 21:12 Heb 11:17-19
As the seed of David Ps 132:11 Jer 23:5 Ac 13:23 Ro 1:3
His coming at a set time Ge 49:10 Da 9:24,25 Lk 2:1
His being born of a virgin Isa 7:14 Mt 1:22,23 Lk 2:7
His being called Immanuel Isa 7:14 Mt 1:22,23
His being born in Bethlehem of Judea Mic 5:2 Mt 2:1 Lk 2:4-6
Great persons coming to adore him Ps 72:10 Mt 2:1-11
The slaying of the children of Bethlehem Jer 31:15 Mt 2:16-18
His being called out of Egypt Ho 11:1 Mt 2:15
His being preceded by John the Baptist Isa 40:3 Mal 3:1 Mt 3:1,3 Lk 1:17
His being anointed with the Spirit Ps 45:7 Isa 11:2 61:1 Mt 3:16 Jn 3:34 Ac 10:38
His being a Prophet like to Moses De 18:15-18 Ac 3:20-22
His being a Priest after the order of Melchizedek Ps 110:4 Heb 5:5,6
His entering on his public ministry Isa 61:1,2 Lk 4:16-21,43
His ministry commencing in Galilee Isa 9:1,2 Mt 4:12-16,23
His entering publicly into Jerusalem Zec 9:9 Mt 21:1-5
His coming into the temple Hag 2:7,9 Mal 3:1 Mt 21:12 Lk 2:27-32 Jn 2:13-16
His poverty Isa 53:2 Lk 6:3 Lk 9:58
His meekness and want of ostentatious Isa 42:2 Mt 12:15,16,19
His tenderness and compassion Isa 40:11 42:3 Mt 12:15,20 Heb 4:15
His being without guile Isa 53:9 1Pe 2:22
His zeal Ps 69:9 Jn 2:17
His preaching by parables Ps 78:2 Mt 13:34,35
His working miracles Isa 35:5,6 Mt 11:4-6 Jn 11:47
His bearing reproach Ps 22:6 69:7,9,20 Ro 15:3
His being rejected by his brethren Ps 69:8 Isa 63:3 Jn 1:11 7:3
His being a stone of stumbling to the Jews Isa 8:14 Ro 9:32 1Pe 2:8
His being hated by the Jews Ps 69:4 Isa 49:7 Jn 15:24,25
His being rejected by the Jewish rulers Ps 118:22 Mt 21:42 Jn 7:48
That the Jews and Gentiles should combine against Him Ps 2:1,2 Lk 23:12 Ac 4:27
His being betrayed by a friend Ps 41:9 55:12-14 Jn 13:18,21
His disciples forsaking him Zec 13:7 Mt 26:31,56
His being sold for thirty pieces silver Zec 11:12 Mt 26:15
His price being given for the potter’s field Zec 11:13 Mt 27:7
The intensity of his sufferings Ps 22:14,15 Lk 22:42,44
His sufferings being for others Isa 53:4-6,12 Da 9:26 Mt 20:28
His patience and silence under suffering Isa 53:7 Mt 26:63 27:12-14
His being smitten on the cheek Mic 5:1 Mt 27:30
His visage being marred Isa 52:14 53:3 Jn 19:5
His being spit on and scourged Isa 50:6 Lk 14:65 Jn 19:1
His hands and feet being nailed to the cross Ps 22:16 Jn 19:18 20:25
His being forsaken by God Ps 22:1 Mt 27:46
His being mocked Ps 22:7,8 Mt 27:39-44
Gall and vinegar being given him to drink Ps 69:21 Mt 27:34
His garments being parted, and lots cast for his vesture Ps 22:18 Mt 27:35
His being numbered with the transgressors Isa 53:12 Lk 15:28
His intercession for His murderers Isa 53:12 Lk 23:34
His Death Isa 53:12 Mt 27:50
That a bone of him should not be broken Ex 12:46 Ps 34:20 Jn 19:33,36
His being pierced Zec 12:10 Jn 19:34,37
His being buried with the rich Isa 53:9 Mt 27:57-60
His flesh not seeing corruption Ps 16:10 Ac 2:31
His resurrection Ps 16:10 Isa 26:19 Lk 24:6,31,34
His ascension Ps 68:18 Lk 24:51 Ac 1:9
His sitting on the right hand of God Ps 110:1 Heb 1:3
His exercising the priestly office in heaven Zec 6:13 Ro 8:34
His being the chief corner-stone of the Church Isa 28:16 1Pe 2:6,7
His being King in Zion Ps 2:6 Lk 1:32 Jn 18:33-37
The conversion of the Gentiles to him Isa 11:10 42:1 Mt 1:17,21 Jn 10:16 Ac 10:45,47
His righteous government Ps 45:6,7 Jn 5:30 Re 19:11
His universal dominion Ps 72:8 Da 7:14 Php 2:9,11
The perpetuity of his kingdom Isa 9:7 Da 7:14 Lk 1:32,33

From Believe Religious Information Source:  http://mb-soft.com/believe/txh/proph.htm

 

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* Our team recently came across your book entitled “The Life of Jesus: History’s Great Love Story”, and we were captivated from start to finish. Your writing style is not only engaging but also remarkably insightful, and the storyline/topic you’ve crafted is nothing short of compelling. Its unique qualities and the emotions it evokes have the power to resonate with readers on a profound level. ~ James Mendez (Skylark)

* Impressive! This book is truly outstanding! Congratulations on this remarkable accomplishment. Keep up the exceptional work! ~ Rachael Diaz  * This is a very informative, amazing, and powerful book. Thanks to the author for investing hours of research, expressed with his masterful command of language. ~ Alex Johnson (5-stars)

* Be enriched. A most helpful telling of the life of Jesus using the biblical text and adding some background and charts. Anyone using this book will be enriched. ~ Rev Dr John Olley (Amazon 5-stars)

* This is a wonderful book and can be read over and over. Thank you. ~ Kerry Rawson
* Geoff Waugh has written a very helpful devotional book about the Saviour of the world who is also the loving presence in believers. Having known Geoff for over sixty years I can testify that every word written proceeds from his own heart of love for Jesus and for all God’s children. Geoff has avoided trying to manufacture some theory or new twist to make the book more colourful. He has used Scripture as his main source and has been faithful to both the divinity and humanity of Jesus as expressed in the Gospels. His use of chronology for headings and the many sub-headings makes the book simpler to absorb, even for an enquirer or new believer. It reminds me a little of Leon Morris’s beautiful book The Lord from Heaven. I warmly commend this book. ~ Rev Dr Tony Cupit, Former Director of the Baptist World Alliance.
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The Life of Jesus provides a brief overview of history’s great love story. It gives a summary of the birth and boyhood of Jesus and describes his ministry through three Passover Festivals.
The book includes a detailed chart of a chronology of Jesus’ life and ministry and examines why such a popular, loving, and compassionate young leader would encounter intense hostility and opposition causing his crucifixion.
The mystery and wonder deepen because his resurrection transformed his followers and millions of lives. We date our diaries and calendars from the time of his birth.

Contents

Preface
Introduction
1 Birth and Boyhood
2 Ministry Begins
3 First to Second Passover
4 Second to Third Passover
5 Passover to Pentecost
Conclusion
Discussion Questions
Appendix 1: Chronology Chart
Appendix 2: The Feast Days
Appendix 3: The Gospels
Appendix 4: Alternative Chronology 
Appendix 5: The Shroud of Turin 
Appendix 6: Prophecies Fulfilled
Appendix 7: Publications   

Model of Jerusalem in Jesus’ time

GENERAL BLOGS INDEX

Blogs Index 1: Revivals (briefer than Revivals Index)
Blogs Index 2: Mission (international stories)
Blogs Index 3: Miracles (supernatural events)
Blogs Index 4: Devotional (including Testimonies)
Blogs index 5: Church (Christianity in action)
Blogs Index 6: Chapters (Blogs from Books)
Blogs Index 7: Images (Photos & Videos)

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The Amazing Life of Jesus – Geoffrey Waugh

by Geoff 6 April 2025 No Comments

The Amazing Life of Jesus  –  Geoffrey Waugh

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* Our team recently came across your book entitled The Life of Jesus: History’s Great Love Story, and we were captivated from start to finish. Your writing style is not only engaging but also remarkably insightful, and the story-line/topic you’ve crafted is nothing short of compelling. Its unique qualities and the emotions it evokes have the power to resonate with readers on a profound level. ~ James Mendez (Skylark)

* This is a very informative, amazing, and powerful book. Thanks to the author for investing hours of research, expressed with his masterful command of language. ~ Alex Johnson

* I recently spent time with The Life of Jesus: History’s Great Love Story and was deeply moved by its clarity, structure, and spiritual resonance. By framing Jesus’ life and ministry around three Passover Festivals, you offer readers not only a historical overview but a fresh, accessible way to engage with the heart of the Gospel story.
Your ability to trace Jesus’ legacy his profound influence, his suffering, and his resurrection invites readers to reflect not just on a distant past, but on the living power of a story that continues to transform lives. Given that this is the world’s most translated and best-selling narrative, your work stands as a relevant and much-needed companion for both seasoned believers and curious seekers.  ~  Carol Daniel

* Your book The Life of Jesus: History’s Great Love Story strikes that rare balance between devotional warmth and historical clarity. By framing Jesus’ ministry through Passover Festivals and mapping out a detailed chronology, you’ve created something that’s both deeply spiritual and accessible for modern readers.
It’s clear your decades of mission, teaching, and renewal work flow directly into your writing, it reads like a heartfelt invitation to rediscover Jesus’ story as both history and love in action. This feels like the kind of resource not only for individual readers, but also for Bible study groups who want structured yet personal insights. ~ Cassandra Lattmore

* The Life of Jesus by Rev. Dr. Geoffrey Waugh is a beautifully written, deeply reflective, and spiritually enriching work that invites readers to encounter Jesus not merely as a historical figure, but as the living embodiment of divine love, courage, and truth. With clarity, scholarship, and heartfelt reverence, Dr. Waugh guides readers through the mystery of why a man who loved so completely and served so selflessly would face such intense opposition and ultimately be crucified.
  What makes this book especially compelling is its balance between historical insight and spiritual depth. Dr. Waugh presents a concise yet meaningful overview of Jesus’ birth, boyhood, and public ministry, structured around the three Passover festivals that frame His mission. This approach helps readers see the unfolding of Jesus’ life with greater coherence and purpose, illuminating how His message challenged not only individuals but entire systems of power, tradition, and fear.  ~ Patricia R. (GoodReads)

* The Life of Jesus: History’s Great Love Story by Rev. Dr. Geoffrey Waugh is a thoughtful and inspiring exploration of Jesus’ life, ministry, and the mystery of why a man defined by love and compassion faced such intense opposition. With clear historical context, a well-structured chronology, and fresh insights, Waugh presents the Gospel story in a way that is both accessible and deeply meaningful. This book invites reflection, strengthens faith, and reminds readers why the life of Jesus continues to transform hearts across generations. Highly recommended.  ~ Debbie Bosch (GoodReads)

* The Life of Jesus: History’s Great Love Story by Rev. Dr. Geoffrey Waugh is a beautifully written, insightful, and spiritually enriching book that invites readers to see Jesus not only as a historical figure, but as the embodiment of radical love, courage, and truth. From the very first pages, this book draws you into a story that is as compelling as it is timeless.
Rev. Dr. Waugh approaches the life of Jesus with clarity, reverence, and intellectual depth, asking questions many readers have wondered about but rarely see addressed so thoughtfully: Why would a man who loved so deeply and helped so many be met with such hostility? Why would goodness provoke such opposition? These questions are explored with care, historical context, and spiritual insight, making the book both accessible and profound.  ~ Mary Haynes (GoodReads)

* Be enriched. A most helpful telling of the life of Jesus using the biblical text and adding some background and charts. Anyone using this book will be enriched. ~ Rev Dr John Olley

* Geoffrey Waugh has written a very helpful devotional book about the Saviour of the world who is also the loving presence in believers. His use of chronology for headings and the many sub-headings makes the book simpler to absorb, even for an enquirer or new believer. I warmly commend this book. ~ Rev Dr Tony Cupit

* Impressive! This book is truly outstanding! Congratulations on this remarkable accomplishment. Keep up the exceptional work! ~ Rachael Diaz

* I had the pleasure of reading your book last night. It is truly exceptional, providing fresh insights. The Life of Jesus effectively directs readers to the profound and uplifting news about who Jesus is and the significance of his actions. Thank you so much for this blog site about Jesus’ Life. ~ Christiana Michael.

* A great read that gives a fresh and interesting perspective. Mel.
* This is a wonderful book and can be read over and over. Thank you. ~ Kerry Rawson
* I keep this book with my Bible. It is especially helpful when reading through the Gospels. ~ Cathy Hartwig
* This is a great read. Simple and easy language that even my children can read as a guide, and have a better understanding of the Life Journey of Christ, as they read it in the Gospels. Thank You. ~ Florence
* The book is beautifully written and I have learned and understood a lot. I am recommending this book. ~ Kattie Mayson

* I experienced enrichment through this profound portrayal of Jesus’s life. A compelling read with straightforward and accessible language. This remarkable book is a true gem, deserving to be revisited time and again. ~ Henry
* I was going through a tough time. This book saved my life! ~ Danielle Davis
* I have found this book to be extremely powerful and effective in my life. Highly recommended. ~ Eileen Marks
* A big life saver. I am very grateful to the author for writing this book. ~ Regina Cruz
* I really enjoyed reading this. It was quite inspirational and remarkable. What an epic journey! I look forward to reading more from this author in the future. ~ Alan Harlow
* A BIG thumbs up to the author for writing it. ~ Constance Morgan

* Your book cover looks fantastic! Your writing style is exceptional, and I loved how the story unfolded, keeping me captivated. ~ Solomon Emordi
* What a captivating cover! There’s such an art to capturing a story visually, and this one does it so well. Wishing you all the best with the release! ~ Habeeb Ayomide
* Beautiful cover art and a captivating title!   Already hooked. Your book is fantastic! Sending you best wishes for its success. ~ Enny Precious
* I’m blown away by your book cover – it’s stunning! And the title is pure genius, it’s got me intrigued from the very start! ~ Jennifer Mary
* The concept sounds absolutely fascinating, and the cover art is stunning—it really draws you in!  ~ Chamberlain Payne
* Your book looks amazing! Its potential to captivate readers is truly inspiring.  ~ Shavon Thompson

* This is amazing. Your books are educational and captivating. It brings true memories and happiness. You’re such a brilliant book author, you truly have extensive knowledge of how to catch attention and engage the audience.  ~ Patricia Donald
* The passion and dedication you’ve invested in every page are truly inspiring! Now that this exceptional book has come to fruition, what’s your vision for its next great milestone?  ~ Ayo J. Olaniyi
* Offering fresh insights, The Life of Jesus points you to the great good news of who Jesus is and what he did. ~ Back cover

* I read your book last night. This is a great book. Thanks for writing this for all of us. ~ Nabeel Sharoon in Pakistan, translated it into five languages: Hindi, Indian Punjabi, Urdu, Sindhi, & Pakistani Punjabi.
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The Amazing Life of Jesus provides a brief overview of history’s great love story. It gives a summary of the birth and boyhood of Jesus and describes his ministry through three Passover Festivals.
The book includes a detailed chronology of Jesus’ life and ministry and examines why such a popular, loving, and compassionate young leader would encounter intense hostility and opposition causing his crucifixion.
The mystery and wonder deepen because his resurrection transformed his followers and millions of lives. We date our diaries and calendars from the time of his birth. His story is now the world’s best seller annually, translated into over 1400 different languages.

Also available in earlier versions as The Life of Jesus.

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This PDF is an expanded version of The Life of Jesus with extra Bible passages included.
The same Contents and Chapters with more detail added.
Page 4 of the PDF lists some of the additional passages

An expanded version of The Life of Jesus
with extra biographical Bible passages added

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The Amazing Life of Jesus: History’s Great Love Story
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The Life of Jesus: History’s Great Love Story

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Contents

Preface [see below]
Introduction [see below]
1 Birth and Boyhood
2 Ministry Begins
3 First to Second Passovers
4 Second to Third Passovers
5 Passover to Pentecost
Conclusion
Discussion Questions [see below]
Appendix 1: Chronology Chart
Appendix 2: The Feast Days
Appendix 3: The Gospels
Appendix 4: Alternative Chronology 
Appendix 5: The Shroud of Turin 
Appendix 6: Publications 

Other Translations

The Life of Jesus in Hindi, Indian Punjabi, Urdu, Sindhi, & Pakistani Punjabi.

 

Preface

Why would such a good man who loved so profoundly and helped so many people be killed? Why did he provoke opposition?

If God walked among us in the person of his Son, why would people want to kill him? Why did so many vehemently oppose him?

That puzzled me as a boy. It still does.

The greatest love story the world has ever seen led to the excruciating death of crucifixion.

Many people have given their lives for other people as soldiers do in war. They die for others, defending home and country. But Jesus’ death was different. God’s Son chose to die for us because of his immense love for us. He took our place. His death gives us life. He is the perfect, sinless, eternal sacrifice for us. His blood cleanses us from all our sin as we trust in him. We are forgiven.

But why did so many good people, good religious people, hate him? That puzzled and fascinated me, so I explore that mystery in this book. I wanted to write a summary overview that people of all ages could read.

I always believed in Jesus. Even as a small boy I loved to hear and then read stories about him. He was so unique, so different. I believed his story as a boy and trusted in him. I still do and I hope you do too.

Jesus did what was good. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, set people free from addictions and evil, performed miracles, and even raised dead people. Huge crowds followed him and wanted him to be their king.

Now billions follow him, captivated by his love, the greatest love story of all. You can do that also. I invite you to simply pray something like this: Thank you Lord for all you’ve done. Forgive me for any wrong in my life. I trust in you and give my life to you.

 

Introduction

The year on our calendar or diary reminds us of when Jesus was born, approximately. We count the years from his arrival. So when you look at your diary or calendar you can be reminded again of Jesus.

They called him Yeshua (Joshua/Jesus) of Nazareth, the same name as Moses’ famous general who led God’s people into their Promised Land. Yeshua means God saves, or God is salvation.

That name comes to us in English through many translations from Yeshua or Y’shua in Hebrew and Aramaic, then translated into Iesous in Greek, then to IESVS in Latin and later as IESUS as printed in the first edition of the King James Bible in 1611. Later that century ‘J’ replaced the ‘I’ so the English name became Jesu (vocative) and Jesus (nominative) but eventually just Jesus in English. Other languages have translations such as Jesu, Yesu, and Isa.

English translations of the Bible used the name Jesus for Joshua/Jesus of Nazareth, and the name Joshua for others with that same name.[1]  So in English, the name Jesus became unique and sacred for Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of God, the Saviour of the world. The angel Gabriel announced his name before his birth to both Mary his mother and to Joseph who married Mary.[2] Gabriel explained that Yeshua (Joshua/Jesus) had that name because he would save his people from their sins.

The great love story had begun. Jesus came to save us and give us eternal life.

His followers recorded that story of his life and his love in the good news of the four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The rest of the New Testament explores the mystery and wonder of that amazing life and love.

Scholars have a bewildering array of theories about the Bible and about who wrote what, and when, and where, and why. I’m content to run with traditional explanations that have been used throughout most of history.

Jesus’ unique and wonderful life, his brutal death for us, and his powerful resurrection, all reveal his and God’s eternal love for us all. You could pause and thank him right now even as you read this.

John’s Gospel emphasizes God’s eternal love revealed in Jesus. It includes the most famous passage in the Bible:

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 

For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. (John 3:16-17, NKJV).

That love, powerfully shown on the cross, has transformed billions of lives, restoring believers to an intimate and eternal relationship with God and with others.

Three physical metaphors help me to be constantly aware of, and grateful for, God’s presence with us always:

(1) Light surrounds you. By it you can read this. The sun always shines, even when it’s hidden from us. Light shines around us though we may be unaware of it. God is light and in him there is no darkness at all. We can live in his light.

(2) Blood pumps through your body right now, cleansing and healing. We may be unaware of it until reactions like alarm alert us to our beating heart. Jesus’ blood cleanses from all sin, always. We can trust him for he is with us.

(3) We may breathe without being aware of it, or we can be aware and take deep breaths, as you may have done just now! Breath purifies our lungs and body. God is Spirit and like breath or fresh breeze, he can purify us.

May the light of God’s love breathe life in you right now.

We’ve been made in God’s image to have an eternal, loving relationship with him that even transcends death. We can know and experience God’s unconditional love no matter how far we stray from him. Those who stray most are often the most grateful for his forgiveness and love. We all stray in many ways and we all need forgiveness and we can and should be truly grateful.

God knows and loves us as we are. That makes praying or talking to him easy because he already knows our failures and struggles and welcomes us just as we are. The more honestly we come to him the more he can transform us.

If we have trouble believing we can at least say, “God, if you’re there, help me.”

Some thoughts may get in the way when we pray or want to talk to God. Just give him those thoughts. He already knows all about it and loves us as we are.

If we reject God’s love and mercy by ignoring him and going our own way, we condemn ourselves to eternal darkness away from his light and love.

If we accept his love and forgiveness by believing in him, by trusting him, he gives us life, his eternal life. That makes us new. We are transformed.

Vast numbers of people worldwide of all faiths, and of none, have prayed the prayer in the popular hymn by Charlotte Elliot, ‘Just as I am’ which includes these adapted verses:

Just as I am, without one plea
But that Your blood was shed for me
And that You bid me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, though tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fighting and fears within, without,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

God welcomes us and we can all pray that prayer. A title for Jesus, as in that song, is the sacrificial Lamb of God who takes away our sin.

The Life of Jesus is a vast topic with millions of books written about it. I hope my small contribution gives you a helpful overview. I quote from the New Revised Standard Version unless indicated otherwise, and include many footnotes that you can explore to discover more.

Best of all, of course, are the inspired Gospels now in over 700 different languages in Bible translations and a further 3,500 languages have Bible portions, especially the Gospels. Read and respond to those Gospels.

[1] Iesous (Yeshua) is translated as Joshua in these verses: Luke 3:29; Acts 7:45; Hebrews 4:8.

[2] Luke 1:31; Matthew 1:21.

 

Start of Chapter 1

It began at the beginning, this great love story, for “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”[1]

Why did he do that?  For us.

He did it for you. He loved you so much he created you to know and enjoy him now as you read this, and forever. He offers you intimate, infinite love. He created you through the wondrous union of your parents’ ecstasy.

He made the earth for us to inhabit and care for and rule. He made the heavens (plural) for us to inherit, the physical firmament and also the realms of vast, eternal glory prepared especially for us.[2]

He created us free to accept or reject his astounding love. Sadly we went our own way. We all, like sheep, went astray. We all turned to our own way. So God laid on his Servant, his Son, all our iniquity.[3] God saves us through his Son in their great love for us all. You could pause and thank him now as you read this.

In the beginning, Adam and Eve enjoyed intimate, unashamed relationship with God and each other. Then, like us, they believed lies and went their own way, losing Paradise. But God still blessed and sustained them and their descendants who chose to love him and live for him. Sadly only a few did.

Noah and his family loved and obeyed God and he rescued them from the great flood. People ridiculed him for obeying God and building a huge boat on dry ground – not even in a dry dock. The rainbow became the sign of God’s covenant to Noah and his descendants including us.

Abram, a wealthy sheik from the wide fertile Tigris and Euphrates valleys in western Asia, north-west of the Arabian Peninsula (now Iraq), loved and obeyed God. Renamed Abraham (God’s friend) he journeyed to the Promised Land, now called Israel, from the name given to his grandson who wrestled with an angel or with the Lord.[4] Circumcision became the covenant sign for them and for their descendants through whom God would provide his salvation for us all.

Abraham and his descendants walked that verdant Promised Land, as did Jesus and his followers. So did our family for a month in December-January, 1981-82.[5]

King David reigned there for 40 years from around 1000 BC, described as a man after God’s own heart who would do what God wanted.[6] That’s an amazing picture of God’s love and grace for flawed people like David. His descendants ruled from his capital, Jerusalem, till the fall of their kingdom to Babylon. The human Jesus was descended from David through Mary, as was Mary’s husband Joseph, also a descendant of the royal line of David.

God blessed his people through history when they remained faithful to him but sadly, like us, they often went their own way, not God’s way. The northern kingdom of Israel fell captive to Assyria by 722 BC, as did the southern kingdom of Judah to Babylon from 597 BC. Then Cyrus of Persia allowed the exiles in captivity to return from 538 BC. Babylonian armies took captives in waves of exiles, and the exiles returned in various groups, then speaking Aramaic, a Semitic language similar to their Hebrew Scriptures. Their temple in Jerusalem lay in ruins for 70 years, from 586 BC to 516 BC. The returning exiles became known as Jews, a term derived from the former kingdom of Judah.

Alexander the Great’s conquests established Greek culture and language in Israel from around 333 BC, eventually sparking the Maccabean revolt from 165 BC with the Jews gaining independence from 134 BC.

Their independence lasted less than a century till 63 BC when warring brothers appealed to Rome, and Roman armies then invaded and killed 12,000 people, including temple priests, in the siege of Jerusalem. Rome then ruled its province of Judea, also named from the previous kingdom of Judah.

Those searing memories simmered strong in the Israel of Jesus’ day when Jews longed for their Messiah to deliver them. Radicals often attacked the Roman occupying armies. Rome retaliated swiftly and brutally. Their armies slaughtered thousands, with hundreds nailed to crosses as in a rebellion led by Judas the Galilean in AD 6 when Jesus was a boy.[7]

Jesus’ elderly relatives the old priest Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth lived near Jerusalem, and Zechariah had been literally dumfounded while offering incense in the temple during his roster when the angel Gabriel told him they would have a son to be named John. Zechariah spoke again nine months later at his son’s birth when he announced that the boy’s name was John.[8]

Six months after that temple encounter, Gabriel appeared again, this time to Mary in the northern hills of Nazareth. He announced that Mary would conceive by the Holy Spirit and her son would be called Yeshua (Joshua/Jesus), meaning ‘God saves’ or ‘God is salvation.’

Mary’s pregnancy created a problem for her espoused husband-to-be Joseph. Being a good man he decided to separate or divorce quietly and not make a fuss now Mary was pregnant. An angel intervened in a dream and explained about the miraculous pregnancy and that Mary’s son would be named Yeshua (Joshua/Jesus) because he would save his people from their sins. Matthew wrote that it fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy:

‘Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,
and they shall name him Emmanuel’
which means, ‘God is with us.’  (Matthew 1:23; Isaiah 9:6)

The great love story burst into history through that holy, miraculous conception. Excited at her news, Mary journeyed about 100km (64 miles) south to visit her relatives Elizabeth and Zechariah near Jerusalem. Old Elizabeth declared that her baby John leaped in her womb when she heard Mary’s news.[9] Mary stayed with Elizabeth and her dumb husband for three months till John was born (when Zechariah spoke again). They believed Gabriel’s word that John would, in the spirit of Elijah, announce the coming of the Lord. Those two women, supernaturally blessed, carried the wonder of God’s loving purposes in their wombs.

This came in the fullness of time.[10] Previous history pointed to Jesus’ coming as the Messiah, the Christ, God’s Son. We now date history from that birth.

[1] Genesis 1:1.

[2] John 14:1-6; 1 Corinthians 2:9.

[3] Isaiah 53:6. See Isaiah 52:13-53:12, the fourth Servant Song, along with Isaiah 42:1-4; 49:1-6; 50:4-7.

[4] Genesis 17:5; 32:28; 35:9-10.

[5] See Exploring Israel in General Books and Biography on renewaljournal.com

[6] 1 Samuel 13:13-14; Acts 13:22

[7] Acts 5:36-37.

[8] Luke 1:5-24.

[9] Luke 1:26-45.

[10] Galatians 4:4; Ephesians 1:10.

Conclusion

The life of Jesus is history’s great love story. The overview in this brief book points you to the great good news of who Jesus is and what he did. That story is told best in the Bible, God’s inspired word.

I hope this brief commentary points you again to that God-breathed living word. It gave me fresh insights as I researched the harmonized story of these gospels.

Many writers discuss the popular five love languages: affirmation, service, gifts, time, and touch. Jesus demonstrated all these in various ways.

He affirmed and admired faith, especially faith in him for healing and help.
He served daily and showed it dramatically by washing his disciples’ feet.
He gave his life for us and ultimately he gives eternal life to all who believe.
His three years of quality time with his followers prepared them to serve.
His touch brought physical and spiritual healing and freedom to multitudes.

I love the way John summed up the reason for writing his Gospel: “Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.” (John 20:31)

That is my prayer for you, my reader. Here is my echoing sonnet, penned over fifty years ago.

Sin stalks the soul, and permeates the whole
Of life lived here where we, while bound by fear,
Hunt far and near for freedom to appear
From pole to pole with our minds in control.
That worthy goal seems mockery.  Sin stole
Our freedom dear, left pain and woe to sear
Each life, a mere heartache, or sob, or tear,
Like a lost mole, blind, dirty in its hole.
God’s love stepped in to fight and conquer sin
Through Christ who bled and died and rose as Head
Supreme of all who claim Him Lord.  Our fall,
Clamour and din may end in Him.  We win
Release from dread, freedom, life from the dead,
Unbound from gall, in answer to His call.

        

 

Map in the book

See also Devotional Books

A 7 Lion
(7) The Lion of Judah – Blog
The Lion of Judah – PDF
6 books in one volume

* Looking for a great book to help you meditate on the wonder of Jesus in all his richness and grandeur and love? Geoff Waugh has helpfully and thoughtfully brought together wide-ranging biblical passages… Read this book prayerfully and you will not be the same! ~ John Olley.
* This book is full of information, biblical information. I have learned so much from it … If you want to learn more from the Bible, this is the book to read.  ~ A. Aldridge

*
Crucified and Risen – Blog
Crucified & Risen – PDF
The Easter Story

A Holy Week, Passover & Resurrection All1
Holy Week, Christian Passover & Resurrection – Blog
Holy Week, Christian Passover & Resurrection – PDF
3 books in 1

A Christian Passover All
Christian Passover Service – Blog
Christian Passover Service – PDF
A Retelling of the Last Supper


RISEN: long version – Blog
Risen! –_PDF
12 resurrection appearances

0 A Mysterious Month All3
Mysterious Month – Blog
Mysterious Month – PDF
Jesus’ resurrection appearances & our month in Israel

A Kingdom Life
Kingdom Life in The Gospels – Blog
Kingdom Life in The Gospels – PDF
4 books in 1

Popular Books – by Geoff Waugh

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Renewal Books – gift ideas

General Books – gift ideas

Devotional Books – gift ideas

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