The Greatest is the Least

The Greatest is the Least - [Animated Bible Story]

The Greatest is the Least . . .

The Greatest is Least is the story of how a man named Blastus tries to improve his standing with King Herod Agrippa by arranging a celebration with the neighbouring lands of Tyre and Sidon. Blastus is shocked to find out Agrippa is already determined he must become the supreme ruler and has decided to invade these countries. In addition to this, Agrippa has had many Christians arrested for their faith in Jesus and has had them put in prison.

Want to know what meek service looks like?It looks like Christ humbly kneeling to wash the disciples’ feet. It looks like Jesus embracing the little children. It looks like James helping a fellow prisoner.In the years following the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the disciples learned to practice His teachings. It was during these years of ministry that Jesus taught the disciples that in order to be the greatest in Heaven, one must understand what it means to be the least on earth.

“And He said: ‘I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’”
                                                          – Matthew 18:3-4 (NIV)

In the years following the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the disciples learned to practice His teachings. It was during these years of ministry that Jesus taught the disciples that in order to be the greatest in Heaven, one must understand what it means to be the least on earth.

Main Characters:
Blastus, King of Tyre, King of Sidon, James, Jeremiah, Gaius, King Agrippa, King Agrippa’s Counselor, Lysander, Vespi, John, Peter, Andrew, Jesus, and Marcus.

Scripture References:
Acts 12:1-2, 20-23; Matthew 18:1-4, 17:20; Mark 9:33-36, 10:32-45; Luke 9:46-48, 51-56; 22:24-27; John 13:4-17, 33-35

Overall Theme:
In the years following Jesus’ resurrection, the disciples learn to practice His teachings. While working at the salt mines, James witnesses two fellow prisoners fighting to be number one. He remembers being with Jesus as He embraced the children and humbly kneeled to wash the disciples’ feet. Comparing the Savior’s humility to King Agrippa, we learn that the way to greatness in His Kingdom is not found in how many serve you, but how many you serve.

The Greatest is the Least - Animated Bible Story. Mp4 DOWNLOAD
*Eng Subtitle - The Greatest is the Least (SRT)

Summary:
Want to know what meek service looks like?
It looks like Christ humbly kneeling to wash the disciples’ feet. It looks like Jesus embracing the little children. It looks like James helping a fellow prisoner.

King Agrippa’s chamberlain, Blastus, visits the Kings of Tyre and Sidon in Tyre. He bears bad news from King Agrippa – that he is upset with the two kings. King Agrippa does not feel they show him enough respect. The chamberlain explains that if they do not show proper respect to King Agrippa, there will be consequences. The Kings of Tyre and Sidon tell the chamberlain they will do anything to avoid trouble with King Agrippa.

James, one of Jesus’ disciples, is working in a field gathering stones to help Jeremiah build a well. Jeremiah tells James that, as an apostle, surely he must have more important things to do. James responds that there is nothing more important than helping each other. They marvel at their community of growing believers and how God has worked miracles.

In the meantime, King Agrippa’s chamberlain returns to his home. He summons his servant, Gaius, to wash his feet. He shares how the Kings of Tyre and Sidon have signed a proclamation that declares King Agrippa is the greatest of all kings. The chamberlain surmises that if King Agrippa is the greatest of all kings then he must be the greatest of all chamberlains.

The chamberlain goes to King Agrippa to tell him of the proclamation. However, King Agrippa is upset because he has a list of his subjects who have become Christians. The chamberlain is surprised as Jesus has been dead for 13 years. King Agrippa is angry because he believes no one’s power should be growing but his own. The chamberlain assures the king that he will take care of the problem. Before being ordered to leave, the chamberlain tries in earnest to share the news about the proclamation but to no avail. The king’s counselor interjects that the Christians are of no threat to the king. However, the king admonishes him.

In the meantime, James and Jeremiah reflect on Jesus’ words about the Samaritan woman at the well that those who drink “living water” will never thirst again. Just then, the king’s chamberlain arrives at the well and arrests James. Jeremiah tries to intervene, but James assures him that if they love one another, all will be well. The chamberlain goes to the king to tell him of the news of James’ arrest and that he is to work at the salt mines. However, King Agrippa wants him executed which the chamberlain agrees to arrange. The chamberlain seizes the opportunity to interject the news of the Kings of Tyre and Sidon’s proclamation and that they’ve come to throw the king a banquet. King Agrippa decides it will be an ideal opportunity to declare war on the two kings. His counselor advises that a great man helps those around him, not destroys them. The king admonishes the two men declaring that he will be the greatest of all kings.

Meanwhile at the salt mines, James is told to record the salt bags carried out of the mine. One of the guards, Lysander, informs the other guard, Vespi, that Marcus has been made a captain over 500 hundred soldiers. The two begin to argue over who should be his second in command. At that point, James begins to reflect on when the disciples were arguing over who should be first and second in command to Jesus. They ask Jesus which of the disciples should lead. Jesus explains that they must become humble as a child. James reflects on another time with Jesus when His disciples were turned away from a city where they had wanted Jesus to share the word of God. They asked Jesus if they should send fire from heaven and burn down the wicked city. 

Jesus explains how he had not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them. After reflecting on Jesus’ words, James explains to the guard, Lysander, that to be a leader he must first serve soldiers in his command to earn their full heart. The guard laughs at James. James then reflects on yet another time with Jesus when he spoke to the disciples of his impending crucifixion and resurrection. The disciples were perplexed as they thought Jesus was going to Jerusalem to be crowned King. James and John again ask of Jesus if they will be first and second in command to His new Kingdom. Jesus explains that God’s Kingdom is not like worldly kingdoms. Jesus goes on to say, “Whoever desires to be the greatest in the Kingdom of God, let him be the least. Whoever wants to be known as a master, let him be a servant first.”

The story returns to King Agrippa admiring new riches bestowed upon him by the Kings of Tyre and Sidon. His chamberlain, Blastus, implores him not to wage war on the two kings and their countries as they are willing to lavish him with even more gifts. King Agrippa notes that he is a rising star – the greatest of all kings.

Back at the salt mines, Marcus appears and says he won’t be able to oversee the executions the next day as he will be taking his command. He also must decide upon a lieutenant immediately. The guards, Vespi and Lysander, vie for Marcus’s lieutenant position. Lysander gets the upper hand, demonstrating his strength by being forceful with the salt mine slaves.

James reminisces about the Last Supper with Jesus. Again, the disciples argue over who should sit next to Jesus. With no servants at hand and without a word, Jesus goes and picks up a bowl of water and cloth. He then kneels at Peter’s feet to wash them much to the amazement of the other disciples. He implores them to serve one another as He has served them. Jesus gives them a new commandment “that you love another, even as I have loved you.”

James’ attention is snapped back to the present where the guard, Vespi, angry over the idea of Lysander being Marcus’s second in command, determines he will show Marcus how he can make men work. He then proceeds to whip an elderly slave. James intercedes and offers to carry the sacks of salt and allow the elderly slave to take on the role of counting. Vespi does not understand why James would do it but allows him.

King Agrippa’s chamberlain updates him on the upcoming banquet in the king’s honor. He also informs him of James’ scheduled morning execution. King Agrippa is pleased with the news and enters the banquet hall for the great feast. He proclaims a future where the kingdoms of Israel, Tyre, and Sidon stand as friends and are led by King Agrippa. The crowd cheers and proclaims him to speak with the power of a god. Just then, King Agrippa grips at his chest and drops dead.

James is led away to his execution by Lysander who mocks and ridicules him. However, James is comforted that he will now be entering the Kingdom of Heaven.

Background:
Israelites ate the Passover meal and celebrated it the next day. It was Thursday evening Jesus ate the last Passover meal. We call it also the Last Supper. According to the Jewish custom, when the master comes home, the servant must bring the water and wash the feet of the master. Since there was no servant provided, the disciples did not bother to wash their own feet.

Jesus humbled himself and served them like their servant. Though He was the Son of God, He did not claim His right. Rather He gave up His right and humbled Himself to serve the disciples. He could have claimed His right at least for this last meal, but He not only gave up His right, but He also determined to serve them humbly. He took the form of a servant and began to wash their feet one by one.

As the Master and Teacher, Jesus showed, by washing the disciples’ feet, that humble serving is true loving, and all positions are meant to serve. Jesus’ act of humble serving is the foundation of all God’s work.

With The Greatest is the Least interactive Bible video, children will learn that the way to greatness in His Kingdom is not found in how many serve you. . .but in how many you serve.

The Greatest is the Least - Animated Bible Story. Mp4 DOWNLOAD
*Eng Subtitle - The Greatest is the Least (SRT)

The Messiah Comes

The Messiah Comes

The Messiah Comes . . .

Journey with the disciples as they discover Jesus’ mission—deliverance from the bondage of sin and death. Jesus cleanses the Temple. Parable of the Vineyard, healing the lame man.

"'When He came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen: 'Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!'"
                                                            – Luke 19:37-38 [NIV]

Journey with the disciples as they witness Jesus cleansing the temple, triumphantly entering Jerusalem on a colt, teaching the Parable of the Lord of the Vineyard [also known as the Parable of the Wicked Husbandmen], and healing a lame man!

Main Characters:
Jesus, Cleopas and Nicodemus

Scriptural References:
John 2: 13-23; John 3: 1-16; John 7: 50, Matthew 21: 6-11 and 23-46; Luke 19: 29-46; Luke 20: 9-19; Luke 24: 13-31

Overall Theme:
Jesus offers deliverance from the bondage of sin and death and gives hope of eternal life through His atonement.

Messiah comes - Animated Bible Story. Mp4 DOWNLOAD
*Eng Subtitle - Messiah comes (SRT)

Summary:
The Messiah Comes opens with Cleopas getting ready to go into Jerusalem for the Passover.  He is persecuted twice by Roman soldiers on his way to Jerusalem and is hopeful that the Messiah will bring them a new ruler.  Once in Jerusalem, Cleopas meets up with Nicodemus, a Pharisee, and his friend.

Jesus enters the temple and hears the noise of the busy commerce.  Two Pharisees are sent to watch over Jesus while He is in the city.  They have been told His followers claim He is the Messiah, and they do not believe it. Jesus makes His way to the money changers, begins to knock over tables, and disrupts the trading.  Jesus is upset that His Father’s house has been turned into a house of thieves. The Pharisees question His reasoning to destroy the temple.  Jesus does n’t answer at first but then answers saying, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” The Pharisees, Nicodemus and Cleopas are all confused by Jesus’ words.

The Sanhedrin is full of the governing council, the Pharisees, and they are debating Jesus’ actions, His heritage and His claim to be the Messiah. Nicodemus leaves to find Jesus. Jesus appears on the edge of a cliff and tells him that a man must be born again to be saved and have eternal life. He continues by saying that just as Moses raised the serpent, even so shall He be lifted up. The following scenes show Jesus calming the seas of Galilee at night, bringing a child back to life, raising a widow’s son from the dead, healing a crippled boy, forgiving a harlot and teaching the people to love their enemies.

Jesus returns to Jerusalem again for the Passover riding on a donkey and is surrounded by His disciples. The Pharisees question Jesus’ authority so Jesus responds with the parable of the Lord of the Vineyard which predicts His own death. Worried that the King will fear they have lost control, Jesus is arrested and judged.  Jesus crucifixion is not shown, but the three crosses are seen on the mountain top. Next, Nicodemus is seen buying spices to prepare a body for burial.

The last scene in the video is of Cleopas and a friend by the well discussing Jesus’ crucifixion.  Jesus appears asking, “Why are you sad?” Not knowing the man is Jesus resurrected, Cleopas begins to tell him about Jesus and how they thought the Messiah would come and deliver them from Rome.  Jesus tells them that the scriptures teach that the Messiah would suffer and die for our transgressions and iniquities. Cleopas, his friend and Jesus break bread together. The nail marks in His hands are noticed, and the men realize that the man is Jesus.  Jesus leaves the men, and Cleopas recognizes that three days have passed since His crucifixion.  Cleopas now knows that Jesus rose from the dead and lives!

Background:
In His final days on earth, Jesus’ disciples struggle to understand His mission.  They are blinded by their expectations of the Messiah, thinking He would deliver them from Roman rule.

The Messiah Comes! Bible video makes the message plain while teaching children that Jesus offers deliverance from the bondage of sin and death and gives hope of eternal life through His atonement.

Messiah comes - Animated Bible Story. Mp4 DOWNLOAD
*Eng Subtitle - Messiah comes (SRT)

The Lost is Found

The Lost is Found

The Lost is Found . . .

Through three interweaving stories, this masterful tale shows how Jesus generously extends His mercy to each one back to the fold. Yhe Parable of the Lost Coin, the Parable of the Lost Sheep, and the Parable of the Two Debtors), The Lost is Found Bible video shows how Jesus generously extends His mercy to each sinner and lovingly forgives

"'What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off?'"
                                                           – Matthew 18: 12 (NIV)

Weaving together several New Testament stories [including the Parable of the Lost Coin, the Parable of the Lost Sheep, and the Parable of the Two Debtors], The Lost is Found  Bible video shows how Jesus generously extends His mercy to each sinner and lovingly forgives the repentant.

Those men and women who recognize their ownsins often rejoice that Jesus Christ would want to help anyone who islost. Three such sinners—Mathew the publican, Miriam the harlot, and asick man named Jonah—all came to Jesus in need of hope, healing andforgiveness.

Main Characters:
Jesus, Miriam, Jonah and Matthew

Scriptural References:
Matthew 9:1-13; Matthew 18: 12-13; Mark 2: 1-17; Luke 5: 17-31

Overall Theme:
Jesus uses the lives of Miriam, Jonah and Matthew along with the parables of the lost coin and the lost sheep to show how mercy, forgiveness and love are generously extended to all sinners.  One sinner’s repentance is rejoiced by many.

The lost is found - Animated Bible Story. Mp4 DOWNLOAD
* Eng Subtitle - The lost is found (SRT)

Summary:
The Lost is Found is the story of three sinners, Miriam the harlot, Jonah, a sick man, and Matthew the publican.  The parables of the lost coin and the lost sheep are weaved into these three stories to show forgiveness for all sinners who repent.

The video opens with Miriam working in a pub as a waitress and harlot.  She is trapped in this life due to debt and guilt.  A letter comes from her brother, Jonah, to the house of a scribe.  The scribe reads the letter which tells of her brother’s expected death.  The scribe does not invite Miriam inside his house because he believes a sinner should not enter the house of the righteous.  He goes to Miriam in the streets to offer her ten coins so that she might start a new life. The parable of the lost coin is weaved into the story of Miriam as she loses one coin, and all rejoice when the coin is found.  Miriam tries to escape her life only to be betrayed.

The video moves to the story of Jonah.  He is lying sick in a bed and cannot be moved, so his friends carry him on his bed to see Jesus.  They have heard of Jesus’ many miracles.  Once they are at the home where Jesus is teaching, the crowd will not allow them to enter.  The friends climb up on the roof and lower the bed with Jonah down into the house through an opening in the roof. Jesus knows of the faith of Jonah and his friends  and forgives Jonah of his sins. 

The teachers in the home think Jesus is committing blasphemy by forgiving sins. Jesus asks the teachers which is more difficult, to forgive sins or to tell the sick man to rise, take your bed and walk?  In order to show that the Son of Man has authority to forgive sins. Jesus tells Jonah to rise, take his bed and walk.  Jonah does as commanded by Jesus and thanks Him for his forgiveness.  Jonah and his friends rejoice.  Jonah leaves to find his sister, Miriam, and tell her of the miracle and the forgiveness of Jesus.

The last story is of Matthew and the tax collectors. Jesus invites Matthew to follow him.  Matthew follows Jesus and invites the tax collectors to his house to meet Jesus at a great feast.  Some teachers cannot believe that Jesus, a holy man, eats with sinners. One teacher goes up to the home and asks to see Jesus. When the teacher is inside, Jesus knows of his question and tells him that the doctor goes to the sick, and He goes to the sinners.

The video ends with the parable of the lost sheep.  This parable is weaved into the story of Jonah trying to find his sister, Miriam.  After many hardships, the boy shepherd finds his lost sheep, and Jonah finds his lost sister.  Jonah tries to persuade his sister to go and see Jesus.  At first she refuses because she thinks of her many sins.  While Jesus was having dinner at the home of a scribe whom questions Jesus actions, Miriam appears and washes Jesus’ feet with oils and her hair.  As she is crying and worshiping Jesus, the scribe wonders why Jesus does not rebuke her. Jesus tells the story of the debtors who were forgiven by the lender, and how they loved their lender for forgiving them. Miriam’s faith saved her, and her sins were forgiven. In the end, Miriam is seen traveling to Jonah’s home, free of the pub owner, and they rejoice together.

Background:
Since the beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry, people have struggled to understand Him.  Those that recognize their own sins often wonder why Jesus would want to help anyone so lost.  Through stories and parables the lesson of how all sinners may repent and receive forgiveness is taught.  Every lost person is important to Jesus and the angels rejoice when just one sinner repents.

The lost is found - Animated Bible Story. Mp4 DOWNLOAD
* Eng Subtitle - The lost is found (SRT)

The Parables of Jesus

The Parables of Jesus - [Animated Bible Story]

The Parables of Jesus . . .

Three of the best loved parables, The Talents, The Rich Man and Lazarus, and the Two Sons, are presented together to reinforce important principles.

"The disciples came to him and asked, 'Why do you speak to the people in parables?' 'This is why I speak to them in parables: Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand.'" – Matthew 13:10, 13 (NIV) Jesus often taught His followers using stories called parables. 

Three of the best-loved parables—the Parable of the Talents, the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus, and the Parable of the Two Sons—are presented together to reinforce important principles. They teach us how to be good stewards of our time and of the things that we have been given. In a world of self-centeredness, these timeless truths help us to focus on our faith in God and on His power to help us live our lives in accordance with His teachings. 

Did You Know?

•  The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus has been called the most vivid account of the afterlife to be found in the New Testament!

“The disciples came to him and asked, ‘Why do you speak to the people in parables?’ ‘This is why I speak to them in parables: Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand.’”                                    – Matthew 13:10, 13 (NIV)

Main Characters:
Jesus, the two sons, Lazarus, the rich man and the three servants 

Scriptural References: 
Matthew 13: 11-17; Matthew 21: 28-32; Matthew 25: 14-30; Luke 16: 19-31

Overall Theme: 
The video reinforces the principles of forgiveness, compassion and stewardship.  The parables teach us to be good stewards of our time and the things we have been given.

The parables of Jesus - Animated Bible Story. Mp4 DOWNLOAD

Summary: 
The Parables of Jesus includes three of the most loved parables: The Two Sons, The Rich Man and Lazarus and The Talents. 

The video begins with Jesus telling the story of the two sons. It is harvest time and the two sons cannot be found.  Their father searches out to find his sons so the harvest would not be lost.  The oldest son, who is suppose to inherit the vineyard, is found relaxing by the shore and promises to come help but does not. The younger son is frustrated about doing all the work since his brother will inherit the land.  He refusing to come help, but changes his mind and returns to the vineyard to ask his father for forgiveness and to help with the harvest. In the end, the father rewards the youngest son with the vineyard because he was always there for him and used his time wisely. 

Next, the parable of The Rich Man and Lazarus is told by Jesus. Lazarus is very poor and is searching for food in front of a rich man’s house.  He begs for the scraps from the rich man’s plate.  The rich man refuses to help Lazarus.  Both Lazarus and the rich man die and find themselves in two very different places. Father Abraham welcomes and comforts Lazarus while the rich man is in torment because of his actions on earth. 

The last parable, The Talents, is a teaching about the Kingdom of Heaven. A master is preparing to go on a long  journey and leaves his three servants entrusted with his property and money.  He instructs them to multiply their coins and that there will be an accounting upon his return.  All will receive the same reward if they do their best. Two of the three use their time wisely, multiply their coins and help others while investing their money.  The third servant does not use his time wisely nor invest his money. Upon the master’s return, he rewards the two servants whom used their time wisely and for the good of others, while the third is not rewarded because he did not use the talents that he was given. 

Did You Know? 
The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus has been called the most vivid account of the afterlife to be found in the New Testament!

The parables of Jesus - Animated Bible Story. Mp4 DOWNLOAD

Lazarus Lives

Lazarus Lives - [Animated Bible Story]

Lazarus Lives . . .

Lazarus is resurrected after four days and life is restored. Martha, Mary and the others receive Jesus’ promise for eternal life.

Mortals' greatest fear is death. The story Lazarus Lives gives assurance that Jesus has all power over death. This is miraculously shown when the Master calls and Lazarus comes forth after lying dead in a tomb for four days. When Jesus comes to Beathany to meet Lazarus' sisters, Martha and Mary, He doesn't perform this intense, personal miracle immediately. First, He mourns with them and His friends witness the deep love He has for His friends. Martha and Mary's tears of sorrow are changed instantly to joy when their brother Lazarus' life is restored and they received Jesus' Promise of eternal life.


“.  .  . Jesus called in a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come out!’”
                                                                  – John 11:43 (NIV)

The Lazarus Lives Bible video gives assurance that Jesus Christ has power over death!

When the Master travels to Bethany to meet Lazarus’ sisters (Martha and Mary), we see that Lazarus has lain dead in the tomb for four days. Weeping, the Savior mourns the death of His dear friend. He also admonishes Martha and says that “if [she] believe[s], [she] will see the glory of God” (John 11:40). Martha and Mary’s tears of sorrow turn into shouts of joy when their brother Lazarus is awakened! By Jesus’ raising Lazarus from the dead, those present come to understand the Savior’s promise of eternal life to all who believe in Him.

Main Characters:
Simon of Bethany, Simon’s daughter – Sarah, Daniel, Lazarus, Mary, Martha, Jordan, Jesus, Peter, the disciples

Scripture:
John 5:13, 25-29, 10:17-18, 11:1-3, 7-8, 14-15, 17, 20-32, 34, 39-41, 42-44, 16:14; Luke 9:22; 10:30, 39-42, 11:29-30, 18:31-34; Mark 8:31-33, 10:32-34; Matthew 12:30, 12:39-40, 16:4, 21-23, 20:17-19

Overall Theme:
A powerful lesson in life after death — through Jesus we have power over the grave.

Lazarus lives - Animated Bible Story. Mp4 DOWNLOAD

Summary:
The story opens in a cave — a Leper colony. One of its members, Simon, has a daughter, Sarah, who is also afflicted and gravely ill. Simon is a friend of Lazarus and was his previous business partner before he took ill.

Meanwhile, Lazarus and his sister, Mary, prepare care packages for Simon and the others at the Leper colony. Mary has made a special doll for Sarah. They go to visit the Leper colony to deliver the care packages, including the doll. When they arrive, they receive the news that Sarah has died from her leprosy.

Stricken with grief, Lazarus and Mary return to their home. Lazarus then goes to town and delivers letters from the Lepers to their families and friends who are not afflicted. While in town, Lazarus witnesses Jesus healing a sick woman. Moved by the experience, Lazarus rushes home to tell his two sisters. He gathers his belongings and goes to his friend, Simon, at the Leper colony.

He finds Simon and then takes him to town to see Jesus. Christ heals the afflicted Simon of his leprosy. In thanksgiving and appreciation, Mary invites Jesus back to their home for dinner and rest. When Jesus leaves, he asks if He may return and visit some day.

On one trip to Lazarus’s house, Jesus visits with Mary and Martha as Lazarus is in Jerusalem with Simon. Mary kneels at Jesus’ feet to listen to His words while Martha serves. Jesus encourages Martha to join them and partake of what is more important —  fellowship and a lesson about God’s glory through victory over death.

In Jerusalem, Lazarus takes ill and Simon brings him home to his sisters. Martha beckons Simon to go and bring Jesus back. The story cuts to a scene where Jesus and some of His disciples are met on the streets by some skeptics. They inquire whether or not He is truly God’s son. They want Him to prove it. Jesus responds by sharing the story of Jonah who lay three days in the belly of a whale and then was set free.

The disciples are confused about the story of Jonah and ask Jesus to explain further. He foretells of His own crucifixion, death, and resurrection on the third day. Peter challenges Jesus — not understanding the necessity of Jesus’ own death and resurrection for the salvation of mankind. Jesus’ power over death is the ultimate glory to God.

Simon finds Jesus and the disciples and beckons Jesus to come to His friend, Lazarus, who is gravely ill. Jesus explains that Lazarus is already dead but goes to him in order to show the disciples and the others of His power over death. When Jesus arrives, Martha explains that Lazarus has been dead for four days. He instructs Martha to get Mary and come to Lazarus’ tomb.

When they arrive at the tomb, He directs that the stone should be removed from the tomb much to the astonishment of Lazarus’ sisters and His own disciples. As the stone is removed, Jesus calls out “Lazarus come forth.” Jesus explains that He has done this so that all may truly believe that He, the son of God, has power over death.

Background:
The story of Lazarus is recorded for us in John, chapter 11. In this powerful story Jesus demonstrates through the raising of Lazarus from the dead the various issues regarding the raising of each of us from the dead.

In this story Jesus is careful to teach that there is both an important, immediate, component which we receive from following him and another deferred component which we will each experience at the end of the age.

Jesus gets Martha to recount both components. The first is the resurrection of the dead on the “last day”. The other is what happens to us now when we put our belief in Jesus. Jesus takes us and raises us to a new life even now as we await that eventual resurrection later.

Lazarus lives - Animated Bible Story. Mp4 DOWNLOAD

The Kingdom of Heaven

The Kingdom of Heaven

The Kingdom of Heaven . . . 

In simple language, this series of favorite parables explains Heaven to a child and how to get there. “Parable of the Sower and the Seed,” the “Parable of the Wheat and the Tares,” the “Parable of the Pearl,” and the “Parable of the Ten Virgins.”

"Jesus told them another parable: 'The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field.'"
                                                                —Matthew 13:24 [NIV]

If Jesus used parables to teach about truth, we would do well to follow His example!

As Jesus teaches the people each parable, some begin to understand what the Kingdom of Heaven is like and accept Christ's gift of eternal life. Unfortunately, others have"ears that will not hear" and are not willing to become followers of the Savior.

Main Characters:
Jesus and the Disciples; the doubters: Boaz, Jeremiah and David; The Planter of Wheat; The Merchant of the Pearl; Leah and the Maidens

Scriptural References:
Matthew 13:3-30, Matthew 13:40, Matthew 12:45-46, Matthew 25:1-13 & Matthew 25:34-40

Overall Theme:
Jesus uses the parables of the Wheat and the Tares, the Merchant and the Pearl, and the Ten Maidens to describe our relationship to the Kingdom of Heaven.  How His listeners respond to His stories tells us much about whether they will be included in the Kingdom of Heaven.

The Kingdom of Heaven - Animated Bible Story. Mp4 DOWNLOAD
*Eng Subtitle - The Kindom of Heaven (SRT)

Summary:
The Kingdom of Heaven is a series of short stories including the Sower and the Seed, the Wheat and the Tares, and the Parable of the Ten Virgins.  As Jesus teaches the people each parable, some begin to understand what the “Kingdom is Heaven” is like.  Unfortunately, some have “ears that will not hear” and are not willing to become followers of the Savior.  At the Second Coming they will not be counted as His own. be counted as His own.

A group of early disciples listens to Jesus tell the inspiring stories of the Kingdom of Heaven.  He explains that the Kingdom of Heaven is like a man who has planted a field of wheat.  We see an enemy at night, scattering bad seed—the seed of the weed-like tare—among the good seed planted in the man’s field of wheat.  As a result, the wheat and tares grow up intermingled.  Harvest is the time of reckoning.  The farmer tells his men to gather first the tares and then the wheat.  The unwanted tares are cast into a fire.  Jeremiah, one of the listeners, begins to understand the meanings behind Jesus’ words, but his faith is shaken by Boaz, who declares that Jesus blasphemes.

In the parable of the pearl,  a wealthy merchant discovers a perfect pearl and willingly gives all he has for the beautiful pearl.  A young man, David, decides that he can no longer listen to Jesus.  David cannot bear to give up all the things he has worked for in this world in exchange for the Kingdom of Heaven.

Jesus then tells the Ten Maidens parable.  Five of the ten maidens waiting for the wedding feast of Judah have come unprepared, with no oil for their lamps.  Arriving at night, they ask to be let in but no one has extra oil for them.

Drawing on the meaning of the parables, Jesus explains to His followers that there are those who hear the word of God but refuse to understand it.

Background:
The gift of eternal life is not accepted by everyone.  These parables give examples how we, like the characters in the stories, may be distracted by the “thing” of the world and not accept the joy Jesus has to offer.

The Kingdom of Heaven - Animated Bible Story. Mp4 DOWNLOAD
*Eng Subtitle - The Kindom of Heaven (SRT)

Lord I Believe

Lord I Believe

Lord I Believe . . .

Lord, I Believe is a collection of three stories where Jesus teaches His disciples the power of faith. First, a kind Roman centurion kneels before the Master and pleads for his dying servant. The servant is healed because he asked in faith nothing doubting. Saying “weep not,” Jesus raises the son of the poor widow of Nain. Lastly, a man with weak faith begs the Master to make his son whole. Jesus answers, “ all things are possible to the one who believes,” and heals the child.

"'Immediately the boy's father cried out and said, 'I do believe; help my unbelief!'"
– Mark 9:24 [NASB]

The award-winning Lord, I Believe DVD is a Christian video that contains several stories about Jesus teaching His disciples about the power of faith. First, a kind Roman Centurion kneels before the Master and pleads for his dying servant. Secondly, Jesus raises the son of the poor widow of Nain. Thirdly, Jesus heals the blind men. Lastly, a man with weak faith begs the Master to make his son whole.

Main Characters:
Jesus, a Roman centurion, Flavis, Joel and his son, Caleb, and the two blind men, Izzy and Ben

Scriptural References:
Matthew 8: 5-10; Luke 7: 12-15; Matthew 10: 1-9; Matthew 17: 14-18; Matthew 9: 27-30; Matthew 17: 20

Overall Theme:
Jesus uses three inspiring stories to teach the power of faith. Jesus teaches that if our faith is only the size of a tiny mustard seed, nothing shall be impossible.

Lord, I believe - Animated Bible Story. Mp4 DOWNLOAD

Summary:
Lord, I Believe combines three stories to teach the magnificent power of faith.   In this video, Jesus is teaching His disciples through word and deed that nothing shall be impossible for those that believe in Him.

In the beginning, a Roman centurion, Flavis, is imprisoning men who could not afford to pay their taxes, while Jesus helps those in need. Later, Flavis asks his servant, Licea, about the man named Jesus. Licea tells him that Jesus is the Messiah, Lord.  Suddenly Licea, falls ill and collapses.  A doctor tells Flavis that his servant will not live until morning, so Flavis runs to see Jesus and bows before Him asking Jesus to help his servant, his friend. Jesus says He will come and heal him.  The centurion says he is not worthy to have Jesus in his home, and if Jesus says it is so, then it will be so. Jesus speaks of the centurion’s great faith and tells Flavis that his servant is healed. Flavis returns home to find his servant healed.  They both rejoice and thank Jesus.  This story ends with the centurion freeing those in jail.

The next story is of a boy, Caleb, who is uncontrollable and possessed.  A doctor says there is no cure.  Joel, Caleb’s father, tries paying many preachers to heal his child with no success. Joel does not believe that his son can be healed through preachers.

Next a scene of Jesus teaching his disciples appears.  In this scene, Jesus tells Peter that faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains. Then Jesus sees a grieving widow woman with her dead son.  Jesus places His hands on the boy and tells him to arise.  He gets up, and the woman and the boy rejoice and praise Jesus.  A scene of Jesus teaching His twelve disciples follows, and Jesus gives them the power to heal, cast out demons and raise the dead.  He tells them to go and do as they have seen for no money; for that which was received freely should be given freely. He reminds them that all things are possible to those that believe.

Next, the story of the two blind men, Ben and Izzy, begins.  It shows them making a doll for Joel’s son Caleb and begging for pennies to eat. They do not receive any money, so they go to the house of Joel who gives them food. While they are eating some bread, Joel’s wife, Corrine, runs home and tells of a Rabbi named Jesus that raised a boy from the dead, and that Jesus has given His powers to twelve of His disciples.  Joel says he does not have any more money for preachers.  Corrine tells him that these twelve do not take money. They take Caleb to see Peter, one of the twelve disciples.  Peter tries twice to heal Caleb, but the boy remains uncontrollable. Joel calls them fakes and leaves.  The two blind men are searching for the twelve disciples also in hopes of being cured. A man takes them to Jesus who has just entered the city.  Jesus asks them if they believe He can heal.  They both answer with a definite yes.  

According to their faith, Ben and Izzy can see and begin rejoicing and praising Jesus.  Jesus tells them to leave and tell no one of this miracle. After helping others in need, they go to the house of Joel.  Joel questions them about how they can see, and they say nothing.  Corrine recognizes that the miracle was from Jesus. As Jesus and His disciples were leaving town, Joel appears carrying Caleb and asks Jesus for help. Jesus says that all is possible for those that believe. Joel asks the Lord to help him in his unbelief.  Jesus commands the evil spirits out of the boy and he is healed. Joel rejoices and thanks Jesus.

Background:
Jesus teaches His twelve disciples through words and deeds about the magnificent power of faith.  His disciples witness many miracles and see that through the power of faith, all things are possible, giving hope to anyone willing to say, “Lord, I believe.” Jesus teaches that if our faith is only the size of a tiny mustard seed, nothing shall be impossible.

Lord, I believe - Animated Bible Story. Mp4 DOWNLOAD