The Gospels

Explore the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John and discover their distinctive approaches to the life, ministry and message of Jesus.

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About this Lesson Series

Instructor: Multiple Instructors-GOS
Discipline: New Testament
Course Group: Gospels and Acts
Download: Course Materials, Academic Packets

The first four books of the New Testament - Matthew, Mark, Luke and John - are commonly known as "the Gospels." These books explain the life and ministry of Jesus, and are the basis for most of the distinctive doctrines of Christianity.

Series Goals:

  • Introduce viewers to the background and primary message of the Gospels.
  • Summarize the structure, content, original meaning and modern application of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.
  • LessonForum
    1

    The Gospels: Introduction to the Gospels

    Explores the literary character of the Gospels, their status in the Church, and their unity and variety.

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    2

    The Gospels: The Gospel According to Matthew

    Matthew wrote the first gospel to explain that Jesus was the king of Jews that brought the kingdom of heaven, even though Jesus didn't arrive in the way people expected.

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    3

    The Gospels: The Gospel According to Mark

    The persecution of Christians was on Mark's mind as he wrote the second Gospel. Mark told the story of Jesus' life in ways that strengthened the faith of early Christians and encouraged them to persevere through suffering.

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    4

    The Gospels: The Gospel According to Luke

    Luke described Jesus Christ as the one who saves. Humanity is lost and desperate, without help or hope, in need of salvation. The third gospel reminds us that Jesus died to save us.

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    5

    The Gospels: The Gospel According to John

    John wrote the fourth gospel to assure persecuted Jewish believers that Jesus was the fulfillment of God's ancient promises to the Jews that Jesus really is the Christ, the Son of God. John wanted to make sure that they would remain faithful to Jesus and enjoy abundant life in him.