Four books in the Bible as biographies of Jesus: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
Reading the Gospels from beginning to end reveals the connections between Jesus' story and the overall biblical narrative.
Understanding the Meaning of "Gospel"
Definition: The term "gospel" means "good news."
Content of the Good News: In Mark's Gospel, Jesus announces: "the time is fulfilled; God's Kingdom has come near."
The Biblical Story Leading to Jesus
Creation: God created a good world and appointed humanity as his representatives.
Human Rebellion: Humanity repeatedly rebels, causing violence and death.
God's Commitment: God chooses Abraham and his family to restart His project.
Through Moses, they are brought into a land of abundance to restore all nations.
Israel becomes a kingdom with significant figures like King David.
Prophetic Hope: Despite Israel's rebellion leading to destruction, prophets proclaim that God will restore Israel, leading to justice and peace for all nations—this is the Kingdom of God.
Jesus and the Kingdom of God
Jesus proclaims the arrival of God's Kingdom, offering a new creation that restores humanity's role.
Key Themes in Jesus' Teachings:
Liberation from death and disease.
Generosity to the poor.
Forgiveness and love for enemies.
The Gospels aim to show Jesus as the fulfillment of the biblical narrative.
Connection to Hebrew Scriptures
Gospel authors reference Hebrew Scriptures to highlight connections to Jesus.
Example: Jesus' birth in Bethlehem is linked to the prophecy of Micah.
Subtlety in Woven References:
Example: God's statement during Jesus' baptism blends phrases from three biblical texts, affirming Jesus' identity.
The Purpose of Four Gospel Accounts
Diversity Intent: Each Gospel writer emphasizes different aspects of Jesus:
Matthew: Presents Jesus as a greater Moses; organizes teachings into five blocks.
Luke: Highlights Jesus as God's royal servant bringing light to the nations.
Mark: Focuses on Jesus as a new start for humanity; the mystery of new creation.
John: Emphasizes Jesus' divinity, claiming to be Yahweh.
Unified Message: All four Gospels tell the same basic story of Jesus, who is ultimately crucified.
The Crucifixion and Resurrection
The arrival of God's Kingdom leads Jesus to the cross, where he is crowned as King.
Symbolism of the Cross: Jesus wears a robe, crown, and scepter, showing that power comes through love and self-sacrifice.
Resurrection: Signifies the dawn of new creation.
Conclusion: Invitation to Participation
The Gospels aim not only to inform about God's Kingdom but to persuade readers to trust and follow Jesus, participating in the new creation.