In this Bible class, Jared Street explores the beginning of Jesus earthly ministry, highlighting His baptism by John, His 40 days of temptation in the wilderness, and the calling of His first disciples. The class discusses how Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecy, demonstrated submission to God, overcame Satan through Scripture, and established the necessity of a spiritual community.

Building on previous studies of Old Testament prophecies regarding the coming Messiah, Jared Street transitions into examining the life and ministry of Jesus Christ on Earth. Using key passages from the Gospels, the lesson focuses on three foundational events that launched Jesus public ministry:

1. His Baptism (Matthew 3:13-17): The class analyzes why Jesus, being sinless, submitted to baptism, highlighting it as an act of righteousness, submission to the Father, and a unifying moment between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
2. His Temptation (Matthew 4:1-11): After fasting in the wilderness for 40 days, Jesus faced direct temptation from Satan. The class explores Jesus physical vulnerability, His reliance on God's Word to defeat temptation, and how His victory contrasts with Adam's failure in Genesis.
3. Calling the Disciples (Luke 6:12-16, Matthew 4:18): Instead of following the traditional Jewish custom where students seek out a rabbi, Jesus intentionally chose His apostles from diverse backgrounds. The discussion emphasizes why Jesus built a core group—to prepare them to spread the gospel and to model our need for a supportive spiritual community.

I. Introduction and Purpose of Jesus' Ministry
* The Anticipation vs. Reality: Comparing earthly expectations and hype to the reality of Jesus coming, which far exceeded all Old Testament buildup.
* Bearing Witness to Truth: Examining John 18:37, where Jesus tells Pilate His primary purpose for entering the world was to bear witness to the truth.

II. The Baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:13-17)
* Fulfilling All Righteousness: Discussion on why a sinless Jesus sought baptism from John.
* Key Observations:
* John's recognition of Jesus' superiority.
* Jesus demonstrating an act of complete submission to the Father.
* The heavenly affirmation: The Holy Spirit descending and God declaring, "This is my beloved Son."

III. The Temptation in the Wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11)
* Physical vs. Spiritual State: Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights, leaving Him physically depleted but spiritually prepared.
* Significance of Satan's Attacks:
* Satan strikes when physical weakness is highest.
* Jesus as the "Second Adam"—overcoming temptation where humanity originally failed.
* Utilizing Scripture ("It is written") rather than divine privilege to resist the devil.

IV. The Calling of the Disciples (Luke 6:12-16 / Matthew 4:18)
* Reversing Cultural Norms: Rabbis usually waited for students to apply; Jesus actively sought and chose His followers.
* Why Jesus Chose Apostles:
* To train and prepare leaders to carry on the mission after His resurrection.
* To reach diverse groups of people through individuals from varied backgrounds.
* To create a genuine, personal relationship with His followers.

V. Practical Application: The Need for Spiritual Community
* Avoiding Isolation: Satan often targets individuals when they are isolated; community provides accountability and strength (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12).
* Following Christ's Model: If Jesus prioritized a close-knit group for support and mission, believers today need a spiritual community (the church) to grow and withstand spiritual warfare.