Why was Jesus' public ministry so short?
Jesus called disciples and taught in the area of Israel for about three and a half years, a seemingly short period of time.Ultimately, the length of Jesus' time in ministry was determined by God. It is clear from the Gospels that Jesus' ministry began and ended when God decided. When His mother wanted Him to perform a miracle at the wedding in Cana, He told her it wasn't time to reveal Himself (John 2:4). In John 10:18, Jesus said, "No one takes [my life] from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father." From a human perspective, Jesus' ministry was cut short by the crucifixion. But in reality, He was in control of the timing.
Jesus knew He came to die for the sins of people, to rise from the dead defeating death (Mark 8:31–32; 9:31; 10:33), then ascend into heaven to prepare a place for His followers (John 14:1–3).
There were many times the religious leaders and crowds attempted to kill Jesus (Matthew 26:59; Mark 14:55; John 10:30–33), but they failed until He determined the time was right (John 12:20–36). The crucifixion was the end of Jesus' public ministry, but also His intention all along.
Jesus' ministry was short because He accomplished what He came to do at precisely the time He determined to do it. He followed the Father's will (John 4:34; 6:38; 7:28; 12:49; 14:10). On the cross, Jesus declared, "It is finished" (John 19:30). Jesus' public ministry did not come to a premature conclusion. Rather, it was precisely what God determined it needed to be. Jesus fulfilled the Law and the Prophets (Matthew 5:17), redeemed mankind (John 3:16–18), and has promised to return (John 14:3; Acts 1:6–11).
What was the length of Jesus' public ministry?
What were the key events in the life of Jesus?
What are the main points of Jesus' teaching?
Who is Jesus Christ?
What is the difference between knowing about Jesus and actually knowing Him?
Truth about Jesus Christ
