By Dr. Randall Smith
Courtesy of Christian Travel Study Programs, Ltd.
Though Jesus grew up in Nazareth, he chose to move His teaching and healing ministry to the shores of the Sea of Galilee. At that time that Jesus stayed primarily in the village of Capernaum on the shores of the Sea. In this village, Jesus attended synagogue and performed many miracles such as the cure of the man possessed by an evil spirit (Mark 1:23-26); the cure of Peter?s mother in law, (Mark 1:29-31); and taking the money for taxes from the mouth of a fish (Matthew 17:24). Jesus frequented the village so much that Matthew 9:1 calls it His “own town.
A magnificent 4th-century synagogue was uncovered here during excavations carried out by the Franciscans.
Also found in the ancient town was an octagonal church from the 5th century which many believe was built above the home of the Apostle Peter?s mother in law.
Remains of village farm implements – including a flour mill and oil press carved out of basalt rock ? were also revealed at the site, and are now displayed in a lovely garden setting.
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