The Gospels of Jesus are all unique inspired books of the bible that together tell us the good news of Jesus’ life, death, resurrection, and ascension.  These books are situated after the Old Testament and preceding the New Testament.  This is because they show how Jesus fulfills the covenant promises of the Old Testament and ushers in a new covenant that undergirds the rest of the New Testament.  The Gospels continue the redemptive story of Scripture and introduce us to Jesus, the Messiah and Son of God.  Each book has been placed in the Bible Cannon in its order for a reason and develops understanding as you move from Matthew to John.  Many of the stories are remarkably similar, yet our view of Jesus would be incomplete without the whole of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

The Gospels are theological and biographical accounts about Jesus.  Each account has its own author with a unique perspective.  They represent the same teachings of Jesus in different ways, weaving together unique details to reveal who Jesus is.  Author’s of the Gospels realized that people do not just hear new information and automatically believe it.  Because of this they do not write a list of facts or a persuasive essay.  Instead, they craft their writings to develop themes and invite someone to believe the truth about Jesus and enter into the new kingdom he is creating.  Here is a basic way to understand the different Gospel perspectives as you read.

Reveals that Jesus is the promised Messiah (Savior) of humanity.

Matthew was a disciple of Jesus and eyewitness to his life and ministry.  Matthew was a jewish tax collector transformed by knowing Jesus.  This gospel was written from a very jewish perspective, frequently using quotations of direct fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, types, patterns, and figures to show how Jesus is the promised Messiah.  Much of Matthew deals with understanding “the kingdom of God” and explains the significance of Jesus’ death on the cross and resurrection for the forgiveness of sins.  This is done through narrative stories, parables, and teachings.

Intro to Matthew

Reveals that Jesus is the Christ and Son of God who suffers for sins.

Mark is often thought to be an eyewitness disciple of Jesus mentioned in Mark 14:51-52.  Early church writers affirm that Mark’s Gospel was written by mark and informed by the apostle Peter.  Mark’s purpose is understood in the first verse: “the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.”  Mark provides a sober picture of what it means to follow Jesus Christ in making disciples of all nations.  Mark comments on dealing with hardship and suffering, even ending the Gospel without explicitly commenting on Jesus’ resurrection or ascension.   Mark prepares the Christian to expect to suffer as Jesus did.  The reader should count the cost of “making disciples of all nations” as stated in Mathew.  3x in Mark, Jesus predicts his death and resurrection, the disciples fail to understand, and Jesus responds by teaching them of suffering and sacrifice.  (8:33-38; 9:35-37; 10:42-45).  A disciple should count the cost of following Jesus.

Intro to Mark

Reveals God’s faithfulness in history to save all people (poor, oppressed, marginalized, outsiders, etc.) by Jesus’ sacrificial work and the Holy Spirit’s power.

Luke is often thought to be written for the purpose of challenging the misconceptions of unbelievers, especially those from a Greek background. Luke’s focus on injustice to the poor, oppressed, and marginalized beg the question, “Who will make up the kingdom of God?”. Luke is also the longest, most orderly, and most sophisticated of the Gospels. Luke is placed 3rd in the Gospels despite its connection with Acts. This may be due to the way it develops on the work of the Holy Spirit and arrival of God’s kingdom rule on earth. Luke prepares the reader to actualize being a disciple and see the need for spiritual renewal through trusting Jesus.

Intro to Luke

Reveals Jesus’ identity and character. Grapples with the personal side of obeying Jesus examples of love and self-sacrifice.

John is the only Gospel not called a “synoptic” Gospel. This is because John is 90% unique material whereas Matthew, Mark, and Luke are remarkably similar. John’s purpose is clearly stated in John 20:31 - “but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” John frequently uses “knowing” and “believing” to invite the reader to consider their own belief. John contains long discourses, extensive symbolism, and conversations with those surrounding Jesus. John takes a reflective posture on the Life of Jesus and what it means to be a disciple. Prominent in these teachings are the 7 “I AM Statements” - bread of life; light of the world; door of the sheep; good shepherd; resurrection and life; the way, the truth, and the life; and the true vine. There are also 7 progressively revealing signs - Changing water into wine, healing the royal official’s son, healing the man at Bethesda, feeding the 5,000, walking on water, healing the man born blind, and raising Lazarus from the dead. These all help us reflect and believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.

Intro to John

Sometimes called “the 5th Gospel”

This is due to the amount of messianic references and the descriptions of Jesus’ Birth (Isaiah 7-9), John the Baptist (Isaiah 40), Miracles (Isaiah 35), Teachings (Isaiah 55), Sufferings (Isaiah 52-53), and Resurrection/New Kingdom (Isaiah 61-66).

Isaiah 52:7 says "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news (Gospel), who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!"