The story of Jesus, as Christians know and tell it, comes from the part of the Christian Bible called the “New Testament.” The first four books of the New Testament—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—are known as the “Gospels,” meaning “good news.” Written between about 70 and 100 CE, approximately two generations after the death of Jesus, the Gospels are based on accounts of Jesus, told and retold by his followers. Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called the “synoptic” Gospels, because they present a “common view” of Jesus through many common sayings, parables, and events. Both Matthew and Luke seem to have used Mark’s Gospel as a source in writing their own accounts. John’s Gospel has a distinctive voice, focusing more on the divinity of Christ within a cosmic worldview. The Gospels emerged out of early communities still struggling with their identity as followers of Jesus in a Jewish context. The Gospel of Matthew, for instance, is most conscious of debates within Judaism after the destruction of the Temple in 70 CE, while the Gospel of John includes signs of Christians being expelled from synagogues. Although these four Gospels differ in their accounts of Jesus’ life and ministry, sometimes in significant ways, the early church did not blend them into one account, but preserved the distinct Gospels with their differences. Together they provide four perspectives on the life and teachings of Jesus.

We thank you Lord Jesus
Amen.

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