Matthew Β· Mark Β· Luke Β· John β The Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ
The word "Gospel" (Greek: Ξ΅α½Ξ±Ξ³Ξ³Ξλιον, euangelion) means "good news." The four Gospels present four portraits of Jesus ChristβHis birth, ministry, teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection. Each Gospel writer emphasizes different aspects of Jesus' identity:
Matthew presents Jesus as the promised Messiah-King. Mark shows Jesus as the Servant of God. Luke portrays Jesus as the Son of Man, the perfect human. John reveals Jesus as the Son of God, the divine Word made flesh.
The first three Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke) are called the Synoptic Gospels because they share similar content and perspective. John's Gospel is distinct, emphasizing Jesus' divine nature and containing unique discourses and signs.
Matthew (Levi) β A tax collector called by Jesus to be one of the twelve apostles (Matthew 9:9). His occupation made him skilled in record-keeping and writing. Early church fathers (Papias, Irenaeus, Origen) affirm his authorship.
AD 50β70 β Most likely written before the destruction of Jerusalem (AD 70), as Jesus' prophecy of the temple's destruction reads as future. Some scholars date it as early as the 50s.
Jewish readers β Matthew frequently quotes Old Testament prophecies (over 60 times) to demonstrate Jesus as the promised Messiah. He assumes readers know Jewish customs.
To prove that Jesus is the Messiah promised in the Old Testament, the true King of Israel, and to provide a teaching manual for the early church.
John Mark β Cousin of Barnabas (Colossians 4:10), traveled with Paul and Barnabas, later close associate of Peter. Early tradition (Papias, quoting John the Elder) says Mark was Peter's interpreter and recorded Peter's preaching.
AD 55β65 β Generally considered the earliest Gospel. Some place it in Rome during Peter's ministry there (before AD 64β68). Likely before the destruction of Jerusalem.
Roman/Gentile readers β Mark explains Jewish customs, translates Aramaic phrases, uses Latin terms (centurion, legion), and emphasizes action over teaching.
To present Jesus as the powerful Son of God and Suffering Servant who came to serve and give His life as a ransom. Written to strengthen believers facing persecution.
Luke the Physician β A Gentile doctor and companion of Paul (Colossians 4:14, 2 Timothy 4:11, Philemon 24). He is the only Gentile author of a New Testament book. Also wrote Acts as a two-volume work.
AD 59β63 β Written before Acts (which ends ~AD 62), likely during Paul's imprisonment in Caesarea or Rome. Luke conducted careful research (1:1β4).
Theophilus and Gentile readers β Addressed to "most excellent Theophilus" (possibly a Roman official). Written with literary excellence for educated Greek-speaking audience.
To provide an orderly, historically accurate account of Jesus' life, showing Him as the compassionate Savior of all people β Jews, Gentiles, poor, outcasts, and women.
John the Apostle β Son of Zebedee, brother of James, "the disciple whom Jesus loved." One of the inner circle (Peter, James, John). Also wrote 1β3 John and Revelation. Church tradition is unanimous on his authorship.
AD 85β95 β Written last among the Gospels. John likely wrote from Ephesus in his old age, supplementing the Synoptic Gospels with his unique theological perspective.
Universal β believers and seekers β Written for both Jews and Gentiles, for those who need to believe and those who already believe, to deepen faith in Jesus as Son of God.
Explicitly stated: "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name" (20:31).