Lecture Notes: Learning the Bible in 24 Hours - Hour 15

Overview

• Focus: The Gospels in the New Testament.
• Old Testament: Ends with unexplained ceremonies, unachieved purposes, unappeased longings, and unfulfilled prophecies.
• New Testament: Completes these narratives with the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

The Canon

• Canon: Greek for rule or basis; refers to the Bible.
• Old Testament: Incomplete without the New Testament.
• Jesus' Role: According to John 5:39, the Old Testament testifies of Jesus.
• Challenge: Can Jesus be presented using solely the Old Testament? Example given: Jesus’ teaching on the Emmaus road.

Key Old Testament Prophecies Fulfilled in Gospels

• David's Lineage
• Virgin Birth
• Born in Bethlehem
• Sojourn in Egypt
• Life in Galilee
• Announced by Elijah-like Herald
• Ministry to Include Gentiles
• Healing Ministry
• Teaching Through Parables
• Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem
• Betrayal for Thirty Pieces of Silver
• Crucifixion Details: Vinegar and gall, lots for garments, pierced side, no broken bones.
• Resurrection: Foretold to rise on the third day.

Structure of the New Testament

• Historical Books: Four Gospels and Acts (Luke Volume 2).
• Interpretive Letters (Epistles): 21 letters, with 14 attributed to Paul (including Hebrews).
• Prophetic Book: Revelation.

Presentation of Jesus Across Scriptures

• Old Testament: Jesus in prophecy.
• Gospels: Jesus in history.
• Acts: Jesus in the early church.
• Epistles: Jesus in experience.
• Revelation: Jesus in coming glory.

Overview of the Four Gospels

• Design & Audience:
  • Matthew: Presents Jesus as the Messiah (Lion of Judah), written for Jews.
  • Mark: Emphasizes Jesus as a Suffering Servant, written for Romans.
  • Luke: Highlights Jesus as the Son of Man, written for Greeks.
  • John: Emphasizes Jesus as the Son of God, written for the Church.

Genealogies in the Gospels

• Matthew: Starts from Abraham, focuses on legal line.
• Mark: No genealogy as it depicts Christ as a servant.
• Luke: Starts from Adam, focuses on human aspect.
• John: Theological beginning with the pre-existent Christ.
• Blood Curse: The significance of the curse on Jeconiah’s line and its resolution through Jesus’ genealogy.

Unique Themes and Features

• Matthew: 10-fold message - Miracles and rejections.
• Mark: Focus on action, Peter’s influence.
• Luke: Detailed narratives, strong historical perspective.
• John: Mystical with in-depth personal details.

Design of the Gospels

• Old Testament Types: Prophet like Moses, priest like Melchizedek.
• Miracles and Parables: Serve as teachings and fulfillments.
• Holy Spirit's Role: Guides in truth and remembrance.

Conclusion

• Final Week of Jesus: Preview of significant events leading to crucifixion.
• Chronological Details: Discussed timing of events, emphasizing Passover and timeline of Jesus' ministry.
• Next Session: Detailed examination of Jesus' final week and crucifixion.