Corinth
Carousel of images for this Bible Exhibit
The Baptism of Jesus
Jesus’ baptism is depicted in the 19th-century painting. John the Baptist is wearing traditional robes made of camel hair, pouring water over Jesus, who stands before him. The dove from heaven has descended on Jesus, representing the Holy Spirit's presence.
The Spirit Descending on Jesus
This painting from 1895 shows John the Baptist pouring water over Jesus, whose head is illuminated, representing his divine nature. The Holy Spirit, represented by the dove, is descending on Jesus.
The Baptism of Christ
This Renaissance painting from 1591 imagines the scene at the Jordan River where John the Baptizer is pouring water over Jesus as the dove descends from God the Father, pictured in the clouds.
The Baptism of Christ
This Baroque period painting from 1622-1623 imagines the scene of John pouring water over Jesus while the Spirit descends in the form of a dove.
The Baptism of Christ
This 19th-century painting depicts God’s light shining down on Jesus as he rises up out of the water.
Bethany Beyond the Jordan
The baptism site known as “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” ruins on the eastern side of the Jordan River across from Jericho. This location has been preserved as the place where John the Baptist baptized Jesus.
The Baptism Site of Jesus
This is a side view of Jesus’ baptism site, known as “Bethany Beyond the Jordan,” on the eastern side of the Jordan River, across from Jericho.
The Modern Jordan River
This picture is of the modern Jordan River near the traditional baptismal site. In Jesus' day, the river would have been significantly wider with a greater water flow.
A Monument Marking Jesus’ Baptism
A cross marking the area of Jesus' baptism site overlooking the Jordan River.
St. John The Baptist Greek Orthodox Church
This is one of several churches or chapels rebuilt in this area, marking Jesus’ baptism.
Listen to this Bible Exhibit
The ancient city of Corinth was one of the most important cities in the ancient world because of its location and played a significant role in the spread of the gospel. It was a wealthy trade center in Greece, known for its commerce, culture, and immorality. The apostle Paul spent a great deal of time in Corinth, planting a church and writing letters to encourage and correct the believers there. His letters, 1 Corinthians and 2 Corinthians, provide profound theological teaching and practical guidance for Christian living.
Corinth’s location on the narrow isthmus between mainland Greece and the Peloponnesian Peninsula made it a hub for merchants and travelers. It was famous for its grand temples, including one dedicated to Aphrodite, the goddess of love, which contributed to its reputation for immorality. The city also hosted the Isthmian Games, which was second only to the Olympic Games in importance. Many people from different backgrounds lived in Corinth, bringing a mix of ideas, religions, and moral challenges.
Paul first visited Corinth on his second missionary journey, staying for about eighteen months as he preached and built up the church Acts 18:1-11. He worked alongside Aquila and Priscilla, fellow tentmakers, and saw both Jews and Gentiles come to faith in Jesus Christ. However, the church struggled with divisions, sexual immorality, and misunderstandings about spiritual gifts and the resurrection. Paul’s letters addressed these issues, urging the Corinthians to live in unity, holiness, and love 1 Corinthians 1:10, 1 Corinthians 6:18-20, 1 Corinthians 13:1-7.
The city of Corinth reminds believers of the transforming power of the gospel. Though many of its people once lived in sin, Paul declared that in Christ, they had been washed, justified, and sanctified 1 Corinthians 6:9-11. He also emphasized that the church is the body of Christ, called to build one another up in love and serve with the gifts God provides 1 Corinthians 12:12-27. Paul’s message was that true wisdom is found not in the world’s knowledge but in Jesus Christ, who became wisdom, righteousness, and redemption for those who believe 1 Corinthians 1:30.
Today, the ruins of ancient Corinth stand as a reminder of its past glory and Paul’s ministry there. The remains include temples, fountains, and the bema, where Paul likely stood before Gallio when he was accused by the Jews Acts 18:12-17. The city’s history and biblical significance continue to inspire believers to stand firm in their faith and live in obedience to Christ. Corinth shows us that no matter how corrupt a place may seem, God’s grace is powerful enough to transform lives and establish His church.
This Bible Exhibit is one of the several hundred found on the Bible Compass within the Bible Ventures app
