Topical Encyclopedia The term "Gospels" refers to the first four books of the New Testament: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These texts are foundational to Christian theology and practice, as they provide the primary accounts of the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Each Gospel presents a unique perspective on Jesus' life and teachings, yet they collectively affirm His identity as the Messiah and the Son of God.Matthew The Gospel of Matthew is traditionally attributed to Matthew, a tax collector and one of Jesus' twelve apostles. It is particularly noted for its emphasis on Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, presenting Him as the promised Messiah and King of the Jews. Matthew's Gospel begins with a genealogy tracing Jesus' lineage to Abraham and David, underscoring His rightful place in Jewish history. Key themes include the Kingdom of Heaven, the Sermon on the Mount, and the Great Commission. Matthew 5:17 states, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them." Mark The Gospel of Mark is the shortest of the four and is often considered the earliest written. Traditionally attributed to John Mark, a companion of the Apostle Peter, it presents a vivid and fast-paced account of Jesus' ministry. Mark emphasizes Jesus' role as the suffering servant and the Son of God, focusing on His actions and miracles. The Gospel begins with the ministry of John the Baptist and quickly moves into Jesus' public ministry. Mark 10:45 highlights Jesus' mission: "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." Luke The Gospel of Luke is attributed to Luke, a physician and companion of the Apostle Paul. It is known for its detailed and orderly account, written with a Gentile audience in mind. Luke emphasizes Jesus' compassion and concern for the marginalized, including women, the poor, and sinners. The Gospel contains unique parables such as the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son. Luke 19:10 encapsulates Jesus' mission: "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." John The Gospel of John stands apart from the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) with its distinct style and theological depth. Traditionally attributed to John, the beloved disciple, it focuses on the divinity of Christ and His pre-existence. John uses a series of "I am" statements to reveal Jesus' divine nature, such as "I am the bread of life" (John 6:35) and "I am the way and the truth and the life" (John 14:6). The Gospel begins with a profound prologue affirming the Word's incarnation: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). Theological Significance The Gospels are central to Christian faith, providing the narrative of Jesus' life and the foundation for understanding His redemptive work. They reveal the nature of God through the person of Jesus Christ and offer teachings that guide Christian living. The Gospels also serve as a source of evangelism, inviting readers to believe in Jesus as the Savior of the world. As John 20:31 states, "But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name." Historical Context The Gospels were written in the first century A.D., within a few decades of Jesus' earthly ministry. They reflect the historical and cultural context of the Roman Empire and Second Temple Judaism. The authors, inspired by the Holy Spirit, wrote to preserve the teachings and works of Jesus for future generations, addressing both Jewish and Gentile audiences. Canonical Status The Gospels hold a unique place in the Christian canon, recognized as authoritative and inspired Scripture. They are read and revered in Christian liturgy and personal devotion, forming the core of the New Testament. The early church fathers affirmed their authenticity and reliability, and they have been preserved through centuries of transmission and translation. Greek 2098. euaggelion -- good news ... Part of Speech: Noun, Neuter Transliteration: euaggelion Phonetic Spelling: (yoo-ang-ghel'-ee-on) Short Definition: the good news, the gospel Definition: the ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2098.htm - 7k Library The Sacrament of Marriage; Marriage Indissoluble; the World's Law ... The Joy of the Lord, the Strength of his People M. Anonymous. The Angel of the Lord. The Missionary Angel. A Servant of Men Who Then Can be Saved? Meditations of the Blessed State of the Regenerate Man after Death ... Christ's Cross, and Ours Philippians ii. 19-21 Preface Thesaurus Gospel's (3 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Gospel's (3 Occurrences). ... 1 Corinthians 9:23 And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you. ... /g/gospel's.htm - 7k Lands (226 Occurrences) Gossamer (1 Occurrence) Thereof (845 Occurrences) Galatians (2 Occurrences) Verily (146 Occurrences) Brethren (528 Occurrences) Thessalonians (6 Occurrences) Gospels Resources How should a Christian view politics? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of “from glory to glory” in 2 Corinthians 3:18? | GotQuestions.org What is the recapitulation theory of the atonement? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Gospel's (3 Occurrences)Mark 8:35 Mark 10:29 1 Corinthians 9:23 Subtopics Related Terms |