This book tells the story of Yeshua (Jesus) of Nazareth as seen through the eyes of four teenagers who lived in Capernaum during the years 27 – 30 AD. These intelligent, sometimes disbelieving, youths listen carefully to Yeshua, watch him attentively and constantly discuss his teaching so as to try and make sense of his message. They also listen to and are aware of the views and opinions of those who disagree with Yeshua and disapprove of him.

The writer feels that if the public life of Yeshua is told through the experiences of four individuals near the readers own age, it could help them to understand more clearly what Yeshua’s example and teaching means for them in their busy, everyday lives today.

The recounting largely follows the Good News translation of the Gospel of Mark up to Yeshua’s final days in Jerusalem, when all the gospel narratives are then taken into account.

A simplified Biblical map of the Holy Land is added so as to help the reader situate more clearly the many places referred to in the text.

In short, the aim of this book is well summarised in the often-quoted words from a prayer of St Richard of Chichester who lived in thirteenth century England:

O most merciful redeemer, friend and brother,

may I know thee more clearly,

love thee more dearly,

and follow thee more nearly, day by day.

Amen.