Jesus and Simon met a merchant from Damascus in Philadelphia, forming a strong bond that led to an invitation to visit the man's headquarters in Jerusalem. [1] Philadelphia was the largest congregation of believers with a feud with Jerusalem. [2] Jesus arrived in Philadelphia with over 600 followers, while Simon Peter and Andrew returned to Pella to instruct the multitude. [3]
Abner's teachings in the Philadelphia synagogue attracted a diverse group of Jews and gentiles, rich and poor, leading many to embrace the teachings of the seventy and enter the kingdom of heaven. [4] Philadelphia, center of the Abnerian kingdom of heaven, faithfully held to Jesus' teachings better than the Jerusalem brethren. [5] The unfriendly Pharisee, chief ruler of the synagogue in Philadelphia, was deposed for criticizing Jesus on the Sabbath. [6] Lazarus, treasurer of the church at Philadelphia, escaped persecution and found a home alongside Abner and David in Philadelphia. [7] The synagogue in Philadelphia, never subject to Jerusalem, remained open to the teachings of Jesus and his associates. [8] David oversaw large interests of the kingdom in Philadelphia, after becoming the financial overseer and settling there with Abner and Lazarus. [9] Jesus' 10th appearance at Philadelphia brought peace and a message of love and unity to his followers. [10]
David Zebedee left Bethany with Martha and Mary for Philadelphia after marrying Ruth, Jesus' youngest sister, joining Lazarus's sisters and their waiting family of Jesus in about one week. [11] Nathaniel lived in Philadelphia for over a year before going on to preach his understanding of the gospel beyond Mesopotamia. [12]
See also: UB 167; UB 128:3.2; UB 152:7.1; UB 159:5.1; UB 165:0.1; UB 186:3.2-3; UB 190:1.8.