Introduction

Reports about Jesus Christ, the central figure of Christianity, are foundational to the Christian faith. These reports are primarily found in the New Testament of the Bible, particularly within the four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Each Gospel provides a unique perspective on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Additionally, other New Testament writings, such as the Acts of the Apostles and the Epistles, offer further insights and testimonies about Jesus. These reports are considered divinely inspired and authoritative by Christians, serving as the basis for understanding Jesus' identity and mission.

The Gospels

1. Matthew: The Gospel of Matthew presents Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, emphasizing His role as the Messiah and King. Matthew traces Jesus' genealogy to Abraham and David, underscoring His Jewish heritage and royal lineage. Key reports include the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), the parables of the Kingdom (Matthew 13), and the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). Matthew 1:22-23 highlights the fulfillment of prophecy: "All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 'Behold, the virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel' (which means, 'God with us')."

2. Mark: The Gospel of Mark is the shortest and is often noted for its immediacy and action-oriented narrative. It portrays Jesus as the suffering servant and Son of God. Mark emphasizes Jesus' authority over demons, disease, and nature, as seen in reports such as the calming of the storm (Mark 4:35-41) and the feeding of the five thousand (Mark 6:30-44). Mark 1:1 introduces the Gospel with a declaration of Jesus' divine identity: "The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God."

3. Luke: The Gospel of Luke provides a detailed and orderly account of Jesus' life, highlighting His compassion and concern for the marginalized. Luke includes unique reports such as the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) and the account of Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10). Luke 1:3-4 states the purpose of the Gospel: "Therefore, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught."

4. John: The Gospel of John focuses on the divinity of Jesus, presenting Him as the Word made flesh. John includes profound theological insights and reports such as the "I Am" statements (e.g., John 8:58) and the raising of Lazarus (John 11:1-44). John 20:31 explains the purpose of the Gospel: "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."

Acts and the Epistles

The Acts of the Apostles and the Epistles provide additional reports and interpretations of Jesus' life and work. Acts 2:22-24 records Peter's sermon on the day of Pentecost, affirming Jesus' divine mission and resurrection: "Men of Israel, listen to this message: Jesus of Nazareth was a man certified by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs, which God did among you through Him, as you yourselves know. He was delivered up by God’s set plan and foreknowledge, and you, by the hands of the lawless, put Him to death by nailing Him to the cross. But God raised Him from the dead, releasing Him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for Him to be held in its clutches."

The Epistles, written by apostles such as Paul, Peter, and John, further expound on the significance of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. For instance, Philippians 2:5-11 describes Jesus' humility and exaltation: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross. Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names."

Conclusion

Reports about Jesus in the New Testament provide a comprehensive and multifaceted portrayal of His life and mission. These accounts are central to Christian doctrine and continue to inspire and guide believers in their faith.