Gospels

The Gospels are the first four books of the New Testament in the Christian Bible, and they are central to the Christian faith. These books—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—narrate the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Each Gospel offers a unique perspective on Jesus's life and message, reflecting the concerns and contexts of their respective authors and audiences.

Origins and Authorship

The Gospels were written in the latter half of the first century AD, with Mark generally accepted as the earliest, written around AD 65-70, and John the latest, written around AD 90-100. The authors of the Gospels are traditionally identified as:

• Matthew, a tax collector and one of the twelve Apostles
• Mark, a follower of Peter
• Luke, a companion of Paul and a physician
• John, the "beloved disciple" of Jesus

Scholarship in the past few centuries, however, has often moved away from these traditional attributions, focusing instead on the texts' theological, literary, and historical contexts.

Content and Structure

Each Gospel has its own structure, but they all cover the life and teachings of Jesus. Mark, Matthew, and Luke are known as the "Synoptic Gospels" due to their similar content, order, and narrative, while John presents a significantly different account.

1. 1. 1. Matthew

Matthew is structured around five major discourses, including the Sermon on the Mount, and it emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.

1. 1. 1. Mark

Mark is the shortest Gospel and is characterized by its dynamic narrative and sense of immediacy. It focuses on the deeds of Jesus, portraying him as a tireless servant of God.

1. 1. 1. Luke

Luke is notable for its detailed narrative style and its emphasis on the universality of Jesus's message, highlighting themes of mercy and social justice.

1. 1. 1. John

John is structured around seven signs that affirm Jesus's divine nature and includes long, reflective discourses that explore the nature of God and the meaning of faith.

Theological Themes

The Gospels present a range of theological themes such as the Kingdom of God, salvation, the role of Jesus as the Messiah, and the importance of faith and repentance. They also offer teachings on ethics, the nature of God, and the end times.

Historical and Cultural Context

The Gospels were written in a period of religious and political turmoil. The Roman occupation of Judea and the complex interactions among different Jewish sects provided a backdrop against which the story of Jesus was articulated. Understanding this context is crucial for interpreting the texts' messages and their reception in the first century.

Impact and Legacy

The Gospels have had a profound impact on Christian theology, art, and culture. They have been the subject of countless commentaries, artistic representations, and theological debates throughout the centuries. Their messages continue to resonate in Christian communities around the world.

See Also

• Acts of the Apostles
• Epistles
• Christianity
• Biblical canon