Amazed by Jesus the Big Picture of the Life of Christ

Amazed By Jesus The Big Picture of the Life of Christ

VOLUME 1

Marc Hinds CONTENTS

Figures viii Maps ix Artwork x Photos x Acknowledgements xii Preface xiii Abbreviations xiv Analytical Outline xv

Lesson 1. Four Gospels, One Gospel 1 Lesson 2. “The Fullness of Time” (#1–3) 17

Opening Events Lesson 3. Two Miraculous Births (#4–19) 39 Lesson 4. John the Baptist’s Ministry (#20–23) 61

The Ministry of Jesus Christ (BEGINNING) Lesson 5. Jesus’ Ministry Begins (#24–30) 73 Lesson 6. Early Judean Ministry (#31–36) 91 Lesson 7. Early Galilean Ministry (#37–52) 105 Lesson 8. Middle Galilean Ministry (#53–71) 127 Lesson 9. Later Galilean Ministry (#72–95) 163

Glossary 191 General Index 198 Scripture Index 208 Ancient References Index 214 Index of Passages in the Harmony 215

Sunrise on the Sea of Galilee FIGURES Figure 1. Clear References in James’ Letter to Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount �� 5 Figure 2. References to Jesus’ Ministry in 1 Corinthians �� 6 Figure 3. Diagram of Narrative Plot Development �� 7 Figure 4. The Gospels’ Focus �� 8 Figure 5. Brief Comparison of the Synoptic Gospels �� 9 Figure 6. Matthew’s Five Major Discourses �� 10 Figure 7. Jesus’ Seven “Signs” in the Gospel of John ��12 Figure 8. A Contrast of Jewish Sects ��20 Figure 9. Three Herods ��24 Figure 10. Some of Jesus’ Descriptions of the Kingdom ��27 Figure 11. Jesus’ Genealogy in Matthew 1:1–17 �� 31 Figure 12. The Earthly Ministry of Jesus Christ ��32–33 Figure 13. Similarities Between the Songs of Mary and Hannah ��44 Figure 14. Four Songs About Jesus in Luke 1–2 ��45 Figure 15. Five Old Testament Passages Fulfilled in Jesus’ Early Life ��52 Figure 16. Seven Rulers Mentioned in Luke 3:1–2 ��63 Figure 17. John’s Signs of Fruitful Repentance ��67 Figure 18. The Devil’s Temptations of Jesus and His Response ��77 Figure 19. The First Seven Days of Jesus’ Ministry �� 81 Figure 20. The First Words of Jesus Spoken in Each Gospel . .83 Figure 21. Titles Applied to Jesus in His First Week of Ministry ��85 Figure 22. Passovers Mentioned in John’s Gospel �� 91 Figure 23. Nicodemus in the Gospels ��95 Figure 24. Jesus’ Early Travels ��96 Figure 25. The Galilean Ministry in the Gospels ��105 Figure 26. The Miracles of Jesus �� 112–113 Figure 27. A Series of Controversies with the Pharisees ��116 Figure 28. Attempts on Jesus’ Life During Feasts ��120 Figure 29. Lists of the Twelve Apostles in the New Testament ��128

viii Figure 30. Six Examples of Righteous Living ��131 Figure 31. Three Acts of Righteousness ��132 Figure 32. Jesus’ Rising Fame During the Galilean Ministry ��134 Figure 33. The Deeds of the Messiah ��136 Figure 34. Jesus’ Invitation to Accept His Wisdom ��139 Figure 35. Simon and the Sinful Woman Contrasted ��140 Figure 36. The Parables of Jesus ��144–145 Figure 37. The Parable of the Sower Explained ��146 Figure 38. The Parable of the Weeds Explained ��148 Figure 39. Military Terminology Used in the Healing of the Gerasene Demoniacs...... 153 Figure 40. Contrast in Commissions ��157 Figure 41. Entrance Into and Withdrawal From Galilee ��163 Figure 42. Jesus’ Seven “I Am” Statements in John ��169 Figure 43. Comparison of the Mirrored Feedings ��172 Figure 44. Eight Scathing Questions in Mark 8:17–21 ��174 Figure 45. The Role of the Apostles in Establishing the Church ��176 Figure 46. Jesus’ Three Predictions of His Crucifixion and Resurrection ...... 177 Figure 47. End of the Later Galilean Ministry Rearranged ��184

MAPS

Maps 1–10 © Marc Hinds (www.hindsdesign.com). Map 1. Palestine in the Time of Jesus...... 25 Map 2. Journey to Egypt ...... 51 Map 3. John’s Ministry...... 63 Map 4. Jesus’ Baptism and Temptation...... 75 Map 5. Jesus Travels with His First Disciples ...... 82 Map 6. Jesus Travels Through Samaria...... 97 Map 7. Galilee in the Time of Jesus ...... 106 Map 8. John Sends Two Disciples to Jesus...... 136 Map 9. Jesus Travels the Sea of Galilee...... 150 Map 10. Cities Along the Galilean Coast ...... 165

ix ARTWORK Herod’s Temple in the Time of Jesus, © Crossway...... 41 Gabriel’s Visit to Mary, © Kim Freitas...... 42 Stable, © Leen Ritmeyer ��47 The Magi Follow the Star, © Kim Freitas ��49 Jesus in the Temple at the Age of Twelve, © Leen Ritmeyer. . 53 Herod’s Temple Complex, © Crossway...... 54–55 John the Baptist Preaching, © Kim Freitas...... 66 John Baptizes Jesus in the Jordan River, © Kim Freitas �� 74 The Temple Mount in the Time of Jesus, © Crossway . . 78–79 The Blood of the Lamb, © Kim Freitas...... 92 Jesus and Nicodemus, © Kim Freitas...... 94 Jesus and the Samaritan Woman, © Kim Freitas ...... 98 The Synagogue and Jewish Worship, © Crossway. . . 110–111 Fishers of Men, © Kim Freitas ��114 On the Mount of Transfiguration, © Kim Freitas ...... 179

PHOTOS Sunrise on the Sea of Galilee, © Ferrell Jenkins �� vii Canon Table from a Gospel Manuscript, © Freer-Sackler. . . 2 John Rylands Library Papyrus P52, recto, Public Domain. . . 5 Bronze Hanukkah Menorah, © BrAt82/AdobeStock. . . . . 19 Coast of Caesarea Maritima, © Ferrell Jenkins...... 23 River Jordan in Bethany, © Dario Bajurin/Adobe Stock . . . .64 Hatzar Sergei, © Deror Avi/Wikimedia Commons ...... 67 Rocks in Nahal Arugot, Israel, © wavemovies/Adobe Stock. . 77 Stone Water Jars from Jerusalem, © Todd Bolen...... 85 Excavations at Capernaum, © Ferrell Jenkins...... 108 Capernaum Synagogue, 4th cent. A.D., © Ferrell Jenkins. . .109 Tiberius, © suprunvitaly/AdobeStock...... 114–115 Model of the Pool of Bethesda (Israel Museum), © Ariely/ Wikimedia Commons...... 120 Model of a First Century Lamp, © Leon Mauldin...... 130

x The “Jesus Boat,” © Ferrell Jenkins ...... 151 A View of the Plain of Bethsaida, © Ferrell Jenkins...... 165 Loaves of Bread and Two Fishes in a Basket, © Magdalena Kucova/Adobe Stock...... 166 Stone Mugs, © Ferrell Jenkins...... 170 Rock-Cut Cave of Pan, © Ferrell Jenkins...... 175 House Key from the Cave of the Letters, © Todd Bolen. . . 176 Tyrian Shekel, © Ferrell Jenkins...... 182 First Century Millstone at Capernaum, © Leon Mauldin. . 183

xi PREFACE

He came from Nazareth, a small town in lower Galilee. But he was more than just a simple carpenter. Jesus was the Son of God.

No one was ever quite the same after encountering him. He just had that effect on people. He taught them, encouraged them, and challenged them. Sometimes, he made people laugh or rebuked them sharply. But after spending any amount of time with him, no one ever forgot his name: Jesus of Nazareth.

No matter what happened, he was always confident and in control, even when others challenged him. In fact, when Jesus died on a cross in Jerusalem, he knew beforehand his life would end that way. He allowed his enemies to murder him.

It wasn’t the end, though. He died and was buried in a tomb; and then, he rose again, never to die again.

Late in his ministry, the religious leaders sent the temple police to arrest him. But they came back empty-handed. Their explanation said it all: “No one ever spoke like this man!” (John 7:46).

As you study the Gospels of the New Testament, you, too, will find yourself standing amazed in the presence of Jesus the Nazarene.

Jesus! My Shepherd, Brother, Friend, My Prophet, Priest and King, My Lord, my Life, my Way, my End, Accept the praise I bring. —John Newton (1725–1807)

xiii ABBREVIATIONS

Old Testament Gen Genesis Song Song of Solomon Ex Exodus Isa Isaiah Lev Leviticus Jer Jeremiah Num Numbers Lam Lamentations Deut Deuteronomy Ezek Ezekiel Josh Joshua Dan Daniel Judg Judges Hos Hosea Ruth Ruth Joel Joel 1–2 Sam 1–2 Samuel Amos Amos 1–2 Kgs 1–2 Kings Obad Obadiah 1–2 Chron 1–2 Chronicles Jonah Jonah Ezra Ezra Mic Micah Neh Nehemiah Nah Nahum Esth Esther Hab Habakkuk Job Job Zeph Zephaniah Ps(s) Psalm(s) Hag Haggai Prov Proverbs Zech Zechariah Eccl Ecclesiastes Mal Malachi Old Testament Apocrypha Tob Tobit 1–2 Macc 1–2 Maccabees Sir Sirach New Testament Matt Matthew 1–2 Thess 1–2 Thessalonians Mark Mark 1–2 Tim 1–2 Timothy Luke Luke Titus Titus John John Phlm Philemon Acts Acts Heb Hebrews Rom Romans James James 1–2 Cor 1–2 Corinthians 1–2 Pet 1–2 Peter Gal Galatians 1–3 John 1–3 John Eph Ephesians Jude Jude Phil Philippians Rev Revelation Col Colossians Josephus Ant. Josephus, Jewish Antiquities J. W. Josephus, Jewish Wars Patristic Sources Hist. eccl. Eusebius, Church History (or Ecclesiastical History)

xiv ANALYTICAL OUTLINE FOR AMAZED BY JESUS

Section Matt Mark Luke John Page Lesson 1. Four Gospels, One Gospel 1 Lesson 2. “The Fullness of Time” (#1–3) 17 Luke’s Purpose in Writing a Gospel (#1) 28 1. Luke’s Purpose in Writing a Gospel 1:1–4 28 John’s Prologue (#2) 28 2. John’s Prologue 1:1–18 28 The Earthly Lineage of Jesus (#3) 29 3. Brief Summary of Matthew’s Genealogy 1:1–17 30 3. Brief Summary of Luke’s Genealogy 3:23b–38 31 OPENING EVENTS

Lesson 3. Two Miraculous Births (#4–19) 39 The Early Years of John the Baptist (#4–8) 39 4. John’s Birth Foretold to Zechariah (#4) 1:5–25 40 5. John and Jesus’ Birth Foretold to Mary (#5) 1:26–38 42 6. Mary Visits Elizabeth (#6) 1:39–45 43 7. Mary’s Song of Joy (#7) 1:46–56 43 8a. John’s Birth Foretold to Zechariah (#8a) 1:57–66 44 8b. Zechariah’s Prophetic Song (#8b) 1:67–79 45 8c. John’s Growth and Early Life (#8c) 1:80 45 The Early Years of Jesus Christ (#9–19) 46 9. Jesus’ Birth Explained to Joseph (#9) 1:18–25 46 10. The Birth of Jesus (#10) 2:1a 2:1–7 47 11. The Witness of the Shepherds (#11) 2:8–20 47 12–13. Jesus Presented in the Temple (#12–13) 2:21–39 48 14. Visit of the Magi (#14) 2:1b–12 49 15. Escape Into Egypt (#15) 2:13–18 50 16. Return to Nazareth (#16) 2:19–23 52 17–19. Jesus Visits Jerusalem at Twelve (#17–19) 2:40–52 53 Lesson 4. John the Baptist’s Ministry (#20–23) 61 The Ministry of John the Baptist (#20–23) 61 20. John’s Ministry Launched (#20) 1:1 3:1–2 62 21. John’s Proclamation and Baptism Ministry (#21) 3:1–6 1:2–6 3:3–6 64 22. John’s Fiery Preaching (#22) 3:7–10 3:7–14 66 23. John’s Description of the Messiah (#23) 3:11–12 1:7–8 3:15–18 67

xv Section Matt Mark Luke John Page MINISTRY OF JESUS CHRIST

Lesson 5. Jesus’ Ministry Begins (#24–30) 73 The Baptism and Temptation of Jesus (#24–25) 74 24. Jesus’ Baptism by John 3:13–17 1:9–11 3:21–23a 74 25. Jesus’ Temptation in the Wilderness 4:1–11 1:12–13 4:1–13 76 The First Week of Jesus’ Ministry (#26–30) 81 26 –27. The Testimony of John the Baptist 1:19–34 81 28. Jesus’ First Followers 1:35–51 82 29. Jesus’ First Miracle 2:1–11 85 30. Jesus’ First Stay in Capernaum 2:12 86 Lesson 6. Early Judean Ministry (#31–36) 91 The First Passover of Jesus’ Ministry (#31–32) 92 31. First Cleansing of the Temple 2:13–22 92 32a. Early Response to Jesus’ Miracles 2:23–25 94 32b. Nicodemus’ Interview with Jesus 3:1–21 94 John Superseded by Jesus (#33) 96 33. John Superseded by Jesus 3:22–36 96 Jesus Travels Through Samaria (#34–36) 96 34. Jesus Departs from Judea 4:12 1:14a 3:19–20; 4:1–4 97 4:14a 35a. Discussion with a Samaritan Woman 4:5–26 98 35b. Challenge of a Spiritual Harvest 4:27–38 100 35c. Evangelization of Sychar 4:39–42 100 36. Arrival in Galilee 4:43–45 100 Lesson 7. Early Galilean Ministry (#37–52) 105 The Galilean Ministry Begins (#37–40) 107 37. The Nature of the Galilean Ministry 4:17 1:14b–15 4:14b–15 107 38. Jesus Heals a Child From a Distance 4:46–54 108 39. Ministry and Rejection at Home 4:16–31a 109 40. Move to Capernaum 4:13–16 110 Ministry In and Around Capernaum (#41–48) 112 41. The Call of the Four 4:18–22 1:16–20 5:1–11 113 42. Teaching in the Synagogue and a Healing 1:21–28 4:31b–37 114 43. Peter’s Mother-in-Law and Others Healed 8:14–17 1:29–34 4:38–41 115 44. Tour of Galilee 4:23–25 1:35–39 4:42–44 115 45. Cleansing of a Leper and Much Publicity 8:2–4 1:40–45 5:12–16 116 46. Forgiving and Healing of a Paralytic 9:1–8 2:1–12 5:17–26 117 47. The Call of Matthew (or Levi) 9:9–13 2:13–17 5:27–32 118 48. Jesus Defends His Disciples for Feasting 9:14–17 2:18–22 5:33–39 118

xvi Section Matt Mark Luke John Page Sabbath Controversies (#49–52) 119 49. Jesus Heals an Invalid on the Sabbath 5:1–47 119 50. Jesus Defends Picking Grain on the Sabbath 12:1–8 2:23–28 6:1–5 120 51. Healing of a Man’s Hand on the Sabbath 12:9–14 3:1–6 6:6–11 121 52. Withdrawal to the Sea of Galilee 12:15–21 3:7–12 122 Lesson 8. Middle Galilean Ministry (#53–71) 127 Twelve Apostles Chosen (#53) 127 53. Twelve Apostles Chosen 3:13–19 6:12–16 127 The Sermon on the Mount (#54) 129 54a. Setting of the Sermon 5:1–2 6:17–19 129 54b. The Beatitudes 5:3–12 6:20–26 130 54c. Salt of the Earth and Light of the World 5:13–16 130 54d. Law, Righteousness, and the Kingdom 5:17–20 130 54e. Righteousness and Observance of the Law 5:21–48 6:27–30, 131 32–36 54f. Righteousness and Hypocrisy 6:1–18 132 54g. Righteousness and Our Trust in God 6:19–7:12 6:31, 133 37–42 54h. Application and Conclusion 7:13–27 6:43–49 133 54i. Reaction of the Crowds 7:28–8:1 133 Jesus Grows in Fame (#55–59) 134 55. A Centurion’s Faith Leads to a Healing 8:5–13 7:1–10 134 56. A Widow’s Son Raised at Nain 7:11–17 135 57. John the Baptist’s Relationship to the Kingdom 11:2–19 7:18–35 135 58. Jesus as God’s Wisdom 11:20–30 138 59. Jesus in the Home of Simon the Pharisee 7:36–50 139 First Public Rejection (#60–63) 141 60. A Tour with the Twelve and Other Followers 8:1–3 141 61. Blasphemous Accusation by the Pharisees 12:22–37 3:20–30 141 62. Request for a Sign Refused 12:38–45 142 63. Announcement of New Spiritual Kinship 12:46–50 3:31–35 8:19–21 143 Kingdom Parables to the Crowds (#64a–f) 143 64a. Setting of the Sermon of Parables 13:1–3a 4:1–2 8:4 144 64b. The Parable of the Sower 13:3b–23 4:3–25 8:5–18 145 64c. The Parable of the Seed’s Spontaneous Growth 4:26–29 147 64d. The Parable of the Weeds 13:24–30 147 64e. The Parable of the Mustard Tree 13:31–32 4:30–32 148 64f. The Parable of the Leavened Loaf 13:33–35 4:33–34 148 Kingdom Parables to the Disciples (#64g–k) 148 64g. The Parable of the Weeds Explained 13:36–43 148 64h. The Parable of the Hidden Treasure 13:44 149 64i. The Parable of the Pearl of Great Price 13:45–46 149 64j. The Parable of the Dragnet 13:47–50 149 64k. The Parable of the Master of a House 13:51–53 149

xvii Section Matt Mark Luke John Page Continuing Opposition (#65–69) 150 65. Crossing the Lake and Calming the Storm 8:18, 4:35–41 8:22–25 150 23–27 66. Healing the Gerasene Demoniacs 8:28–34 5:1–20 8:26–39 152 67. Two Daughters Healed 9:18–26 5:21–43 8:40–56 153 68. Two Blind Men and a Demoniac Healed 9:27–34 155 69. Final Visit to Unbelieving Nazareth 13:54–58 6:1–6a 155 Final Galilean Campaign (#70–71) 155 70a. Shortage of Workers 9:35–38 6:6b 156 70b. The Limited Commission 10:1–42 6:7–11 9:1–5 156 70c. Workers Sent Out 11:1 6:12–13 9:6 157 71. Flashback: John’s Imprisonment and Death 14:1–12 6:14–29 9:7–9 157 Lesson 9. Later Galilean Ministry (#72–95) 163 “I Am the Bread of Life” (#72–76) 164 72a–b. The Crowds Chase Jesus 14:13–14 6:30–34 9:10–11 6:1–3 164 72c. Feeding of the 5,000 14:15–21 6:35–44 9:12–17 6:4–13 164 73. A Premature Attempt to Make Jesus King 14:22–23 6:45–46 6:14–15 166 74. Walking on the Water During a Storm 14:24–33 6:47–52 6:16–21 167 75. Healings at Gennesaret 14:34–36 6:53–56 168 76a. Discourse on the True Bread of Life 6:22–59 168 76b. Defection Among the Disciples 6:60–71 169 “Beware of the Leaven” (#77–81) 169 77. Conflict Over Ritual Purity 15:1–20 7:1–23 7:1 170 78. The Faith of the Syrophoenician Woman 15:21–28 7:24–30 171 79a. Healings in Decapolis 15:29–31 7:31–37 172 79b. Feeding of the 4,000 15:32–38 8:1–9a 172 80. The Pharisees and Sadducees Test Jesus 15:39– 8:9b–12 173 16:4 81a. “Beware of the Leaven” 16:5–12 8:13–21 173 81b. Healing a Blind Man at Bethsaida 8:22–26 174 The Turning Point (#82–86) 175 82. “You Are the Christ” 16:13–20 8:27–30 9:18–21 175 83. Jesus’ First Direct Prediction of His Death 16:21–26 8:31–37 9:22–25 177 84. Coming of the Son of Man and Judgment 16:27–28 8:38–9:1 9:26–27 178 85. The Transfiguration 17:1–8 9:2–8 9:28–36a 179 86. Coming Down the Mountain 17:9–13 9:9–13 9:36b 180 Lessons on Responsibility to Others (#87–92) 181 87. Healing of the Demoniac Boy 17:14–21 9:14–29 9:37–43a 181 88. Jesus’ Second Direct Prediction of His Death 17:22–23 9:30–32 9:43b–45 181 89. Payment of the Temple Tax 17:24–27 182 90. Rivalry over Greatness in the Kingdom 18:1–5 9:33–37 9:46–48 182 91. Warning Against Causing Believers to Sin 18:6–14 9:38–50 9:49–50 183 92. A Lesson on Forgiveness 18:15–35 183

xviii Section Matt Mark Luke John Page The Journey to Jerusalem Begins (#93–95) 184 94. Jesus Is Ridiculed by His Half-Brothers 7:2–9 184 95. Rejection at Samaria 9:51–56 7:10 185 93. Jesus’ Challenge: “Follow Me” 8:19–22 9:57–62 185

CONTINUED IN VOLUME 2

xix LESSON 4 LESSON 5 LESSON 6 LESSON 7 LESSON 8 LESSON 9 LESSON 10 LESSON 11 LESSONS 12 15 MINISTRY EARLY EARLY MIDDLE L ATER L ATER OF JOHN OPENING EVENTS JUDEAN GALILEAN GALILEAN GALILEAN JUDEAN PEREAN 8 Months 8 Months 6 Months 10 Months 6 Months 3 Months 3½ Months #20–23 #24–30 #31–36 #37–52 #53–71 #72–95 #96 –111 #112–127 #128–184

.. 26 .. 27 .. 28 .. 29 .. 30

Passover #1 Passover #2 Passover #3 Passover #4

LESSON 1 Four Gospels, One Gospel

ach of the first four books of the New Testament records the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. These four Ebooks—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—are more accurately called Gospels.

The word gospel literally means “good news.” Shortly before the birth of Jesus, gospel was used by the Roman Empire to an- nounce the new reign of its first emperor, Caesar Augustus. Later, when Jesus began his ministry by telling people they needed to “repent and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15), they were already familiar with this term.

Throughout the New Testament, the apostles described the message of God’s saving grace in Christ as “the gospel.” For example, Paul wrote, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God to salvation to everyone who believes” (Rom 1:16).

Though we may refer to Matthew, Mark, Luke and John as Gospels, there is really only one gospel. That is why in our English Bibles, each of these four books begins with “the gospel according to . . .” its respective author. “The Gospel According to Matthew” means this is the apostle Matthew’s account of the one true gospel about Jesus. Amazed By Jesus: Lesson 1 | 2

Combining the Four Gospels Gospel or Gospels? Because they all focus on Jesus and his ministry, the four Gospels Gospel is used in two different often overlap in their contents, recording many of the same senses in this survey. events. For example, they each culminate in the crucifixion of Jesus and thus contain similar details about his death and burial. Early on, their similarities were observed by ancient readers of When spelled with a lowercase the Gospels and were called parallel passages. Soon after the four “g ,” gospel will denote the collective beliefs and teachings about Jesus. Gospels were circulated, Christians began to catalog them. When spelled with an uppercase Eusebian Canons “G ,” Gospel will refer to one of One of the earliest attempts to systemize these parallels was by the first four books of the New Eusebius (A.D. 263–339), a church historian who lived and worked Testament and often be plural. in Caesarea Maritima in the third century A.D. He divided each Gospel into sections and then cross-referenced them into a series of 10 tables he called canons.

▶ The first table (Canon 1) identified the shared material from all four Gospels. ▶ Other tables listed only those sections shared by three of the four Gospels (Canons 2–4) or just two (Canons 5–9). ▶ The final table (Canon 10) had four parts, list- ing the sections unique to each Gospel.

Known as the Eusebian Canons, this cross-reference system became so popular that it was included at the beginning of many ancient copies of the Gospels. A medieval Christian fortunate enough to have a Greek or Latin copy of the Gospels could use these tables to locate and find the parallel accounts.

Gospel Harmonies Attempts were also made to harmonize the parallel passages, smoothing out their differences or, at the very least, assessing and accounting for them. In Gospel harmony, details mentioned in one account are then added to the others and either printed in A canon table of an 11th-century parallel columns or combined into a single narrative. Gospel har- copy of the Gospels. monies typically include detailed notes or commentary.

Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Smithsonian Institution, The earliest harmony of the Gospels was by the ancient writer, Washington, D.C.: Purchase—Charles Tatian (ca. A.D. 120–180). He took the four Gospels and com- Lang Freer Endowment, F1947.4 bined them into a single narrative. Tatian called his harmony the Four Gospels, One Gospel | 3

Diatessaron, which literally means “through the four.” It was extremely popular in the mid-second century A.D. and beyond.

Following Tatian’s lead, modern Gospel harmonies try to present a seamless chronological arrangement of Jesus’ life and ministry. Because each Gospel does not always follow a strict chronological order, Bible verses are sometimes rearranged. As a result, a Gospel harmony does not present the story of Jesus in the exact order of each Gospel account.

A. T. Robertson’s Harmony One of the most popular Gospel harmonies was written by A. T. Robertson (1863–1934). Dividing the Gospels into 184 sections, A Harmony of the Gospels attempts to provide a chronological arrangement of the ministry of Jesus. At times, this requires the re- arrangement of material, especially in Matthew’s Gospel, which often presents events of Jesus’ ministry topically rather than chronologically. Numerous notes are included in his Harmony to help explain the rationale for the rearrangements and address The NIV Harmony of the Gospels by other critical issues regarding the chronology of Jesus’ ministry. Drs. Thomas and Gundry (Harper Collins, 1988) uses the 184 sections Thomas and Gundry’s Harmony of A. T. Robertson’s Harmony of the Over the last century, Robertson’s Harmony has been frequently Gospels. Their base text is the 1984 revised and improved upon. One such revision is by Drs. Robert edition of the NIV. Thomas and Stanley Gundry. In their 1988 publication, The NIV Harmony of the Gospels, they retain Robertson’s 184 sections by subdividing many of them into smaller sections.

For example, the Sermon on the Mount, as recorded in Matt 5–7 and Luke 6:17–49, originally received only one section number in the Robertson Harmony (#54). But in the Thomas and Gundry Harmony, the Sermon on the Mount is divided into nine sections. Designated with a lower-case letter (e.g., #54a, #54b, #54c, etc.), these smaller sections make the comparison of parallel passages much more manageable.* Steven L. Cox and Kendell H. Easley’s Harmony of the Gospels * Gospel harmonies typically use the symbol § to identify a section (e.g., uses the 184 sections of A. T. §1 or §§1–2). This survey, however, will use the more conventional num- Robertson (Holman Bible ber sign (#) throughout (e.g., #1 or #1–2). Publishers, 2007). Amazed By Jesus: Lesson 1 | 4

Gospel Surveys In addition to a harmony of the Gospels, another way to analyze the ministry of Jesus is called a gospel survey. Often built on the shoulders of a gospel harmony, a gospel survey presents a general view of Jesus’ life and analyzes the contents of the Gospels.

In this gospel survey, Amazed By Jesus, we will take in the big picture of “all Jesus began to do and teach” (Acts 1:1). Although no one may know with absolute certainty when every event in Jesus’ ministry occurred, we will follow the Thomas and Gundry Harmony with its section numbers.

These 184 section numbers are arbitrary and only serve as a use- ful reference system. Because the numbers are unfamiliar to us, they will be supplemented with the Bible’s own reference system of chapters and verses when appropriate (e.g., John 2:13–22, #31; Matt 21:12–13, #129b). And so, although these section numbers appear throughout the following pages and are designed to aid you in locating parallel passages, please feel free to disregard them, if you find them distracting. The Origins of the Gospels Apocryphal Gospels These four books are the earliest and most reliable records of Jesus’ life. They were greatly cherished by the early Christians. But Spurious and fanciful accounts who wrote them? Most of the New Testament letters (Romans– about Jesus appeared as early Jude) identify their authors, but the Gospels never actually do. as the second century A.D. Around A.D. 240, the Christian theologian Origen (A.D. 184–253) Apocryphal “Gospels” were named these four men—Matthew, Mark, Luke and John—as the circulated, but never considered authors of the Gospels. Origen further attested that these are the to be authentic. Unlike the four authoritative accounts of Jesus’ life, identifying them as “the only Gospels, apocryphal Gospels were indisputable ones in the Church of God under heaven” (quoted written long after Jesus’ ministry and include few geographical references. by Eusebius, Hist. eccl., 6.25.4).

The most famous apocryphal Matthew and John were apostles of Jesus (see Figure 29 on page Gospel is the Gospel of Thomas, 128) and thus eyewitnesses to many of the events they record. dated no earlier than A.D. 140. It contains a collection of sayings. Mark was not an apostle, but he was an early Christian and pro- tégé of the apostle Peter (cf. 1 Pet 5:13). It is believed his Gospel Four Gospels, One Gospel | 5

is based on the testimony of Peter (Eusebius, Hist. eccl., 3.39.15, quoting Papias, A.D. 70–163). “Peter’s” Gospel Luke’s Gospel and the book of Acts are companion volumes (cf. Mark became Peter’s interpreter Luke 1:1–4; Acts 1:1–2). The “we” sections of Acts (cf. Acts 16:4) and wrote accurately all were written by a lifelong companion of Paul (see Luke 10:7; that he remembered. 1 Tim 5:18). For this and many other reasons, the early Christians believed Luke to be the author. He is the only Gentile author of —Eusebius, Hist. the New Testament. eccl., 3.39.15 Dating of the Gospels When the Gospels were written is not known. But, they were Eusebius is quoting Papias’ penned soon after the events they record, placing them close to writings from around A.D. 110. A.D. 30, which is the year Jesus completed his ministry. This as- sessment is not commonly held by modern scholarship, however. The earliest manuscript copy of the New So, why should we believe the Gospels can be dated much ear- Testament is called P52 lier than they normally are? Tatian based his mid-second century and is dated to around Gospel harmony on these books (see pages 2–3), a ccepting these A.D. 125. Measuring only four books—and only these four—as authoritative. Copies of 3½” × 2½”), it has sections of John 18 on its front the Gospels had to have adequate time to circulate and be accept- side and reverse. ed by Christians, many of whom lived in Asia and Africa.

Also, the letter of James, the half-brother of Jesus (cf. Matt 13:55; James 1:1), was likely written prior toA.D. 50. (James was mar- tyred around A.D. 62.) James’ letter contains nearly 20 citations to Jesus’ Sermon the Mount (Figure 1). Clear References in James’ Letter to Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount James Jesus . . . that you may be perfect and complete. James 1:4 “You must be perfect.” Matt 5:48 . . . let him ask God, who gives generously. James 1:5 “Ask, and it will be given to you.” Matt 7:7–11 Be doers of the word, not hearers only. James 1:22 “Everyone who hears these Matt 7:24–25 words . . . and does not do them . . .” Do not swear . . . but let your “yes” be James 5:12 “Do not take an oath at all . . . Let Matt 5:34–37 yes and your “no” be no. what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No.’ ” Figure 1. Amazed By Jesus: Lesson 1 | 6

Paul the apostle also refers to numerous events from Jesus’ ministry in 1 Corinthians (Figure 2). This letter is considered by lib- eral scholars to have been written by Paul around A.D. 57. This indicates people were immediately writing about the events sur- rounding Jesus’ life and death soon after they had occurred.

References to Jesus’ Ministry in 1 Corinthians Event Citation Refers to Jesus as “Lord,” “Christ,” “God’s Son” 1 Cor 1:7–9 Jesus was crucified 1 Cor 1:23; 2:2 Alludes to Jesus’ teachings on marriage 1 Cor 7:10, 12 Makes reference to Jesus’ half-brothers 1 Cor 9:5 Recites the institution of the Lord’s Supper 1 Cor 11:23–26 Summary of Jesus’ ministry 1 Cor 15:3–4 Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances to 1 Cor 15:5–7 Peter, the apostles, James, and the 500 Figure 2. How the Gospels Are Similar The Gospel authors were inspired by God (cf. 2 Tim 3:16–17), but they also used literary artistry to construct their accounts. Filled with numerous literary features such as drama, humor, irony, and foreshadowing, the Gospels are great literature. Yet, they are far Pericope more: They are about Jesus, the very Word of God (John 1:1). His Another term for a passage life and ministry are all about how God wants to transform us of Scripture is pericope into the image of his Son (Rom 8:29) by saving us from ourselves (pronounced puh-RICK-uh-pee) and our self-destructing sin (1 Tim 1:15).

Jesus is the hero of the story. All four Gospels tell us about his You could, for example, refer to Luke 5:1–11 as a: earthly ministry and what it means for us today. And because all four Gospels have the same main subject, there are many points ▶ Narrative of similarity among them. ▶ Passage (of Scripture) ▶ Pericope ▶ The Gospels are all narrative literature. ▶ Scripture ▶ They mphasizee the last 40 days of Jesus’ life. ▶ Story ▶ Matthew, Mark, and Luke use much of the same language, dub- ▶ Text bing them the Synoptic Gospels (which means “seen together”). Four Gospels, One Gospel | 7

The Gospels Are Narratives Jesus the Hero: “Tell me a story.” We all love to hear exciting stories. That’s ex- A Guided Literary actly what the Gospels are: stories about Jesus. Many Christians, Study of the Gospels by Leland however, are leery of referring to the Gospels as stories, because Ryken is the fourth “story” is often used to describe fictional literature. But, the book in a six-part Gospels are both true (the events they record really happened) series entitled and contain the elements of a story such as plot development, set- “Reading the Bible ting, and characters. They are non-fictional narratives filled with as Literature.” exciting drama. Dr. Ryken has spent a lifetime Plot. In his work Poetics, the Greek philosopher, Aristotle (384– distilling the literary features of the 322 B.C.) identifies the key to all good stories: plot. Though it may Bible in an understandable way seem obvious, all good stories have a beginning, a middle, and an (Weaver Book Company, 2016). end. Throughout a story’s plot, there is a conflict which the reader anticipates will be resolved.

In a story, there is always a sense of progression, which keeps the action moving toward a climax. The denouement (day-nou-MAH, French for “the untying of a knot”) is the author’s explanation or resolution of the plot (Figure 3). Universally, an unresolved story is extremely unsatisfying. The Gospels contain numerous stories about Jesus, which are skillfully written, using all these elements of good story telling. If you look for these, your understanding of the Gospels will be greatly enhanced.

Diagram of Narrative Plot Development

Climax

Rising action Falling action Problem

Se ing and Denouement characters

Figure 3. Amazed By Jesus: Lesson 1 | 8

Setting. Setting includes not only location such as Galilee (the Early Historical Jordan River, a prison cell, etc.), but also what characters are Synoptic References to Jesus wearing (a garment of camel’s hair, a crown of thorns, etc.). Literally means “same view.” Several ancient historians This is a collective term that Characters. Who are the main players in the story? What is their made references to Jesus is applied to Matthew, Mark, social status, and how does that relate to how the author presents and Luke without John. them? For example, in the parable of the Good Samaritan, who Tacitus ...... A.D. 64 is the hero, was on the bottom of the social order, yet, he is the Christus . . . suffered the parable’s main character. The Synoptic Gospels focus on extreme penalty . . . at the hands Jesus’ Galilean Ministry, while of one of our procurators, The Gospels Emphasize the Last Forty Days John’s Gospel does not. Pontius Pilatus (Annals, 15.44) The Gospels are not like modern-day biographies. If they were, John’s Gospel is written in a Josephus...... A.D. 100 they would have provided more information about Jesus’ for- different literary style than mative years. Instead, we know little about his life before he was the first three Gospels. Jesus, who was called 30 years old. In fact, only Matthew’s and Luke’s accounts record Christ (Ant., 20.200) anything about his birth or early childhood (Matt 1:18–2:23; Pliny the Younger. . . .A.D. 110 Luke 2:1–52, #9–19). To Emperor Trajan: Though it is true the Gospels focus on Jesus’ 3½-year ministry They [the Christians] recited a hymn to Christ as (their) God and bound (#20–127), they disproportionately focus on the last 40 days of Figure 4 * themselves with an oath not to his life (#128–184; see ). This helps emphasize the su- commit any crime (Letters, 10.96) preme significance of Jesus’ death, resurrection, and post-resurrection appearances. The Gospels’ Focus Gospel 33+ Years (#1–127) 40 Days (#128–184) Matthew 65% (Matt 1–20) 35% (Matt 21–28) Mark 63% (Mark 1–10) 37% (Mark 11–16) Luke 78% (Luke 1:1–19:28) 22% (Luke 19:29–24:52) John 58% ( John 1:1–11:54) 42% ( John 11:55–21:25) Figure 4.

The Synoptic Gospels Three of the four Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—are often referred to as the Synoptic Gospels, which means they can

* The Gospels especially focus on the last week leading up to the crucifixion. This last week is discussed in detail in Lesson 12, “The Final Week” (#128–152). Four Gospels, One Gospel | 9

Setting. Setting includes not only location such as Galilee (the be seen together easily. That’s because, in writing about similar Early Historical Jordan River, a prison cell, etc.), but also what characters are events, they often use much of the same language Figure( 5). Synoptic References to Jesus wearing (a garment of camel’s hair, a crown of thorns, etc.). Literally means “same view.” Brief Comparison of the Synoptic Gospels Several ancient historians This is a collective term that Characters. Who are the main players in the story? What is their Gospel Quotation made references to Jesus is applied to Matthew, Mark, social status, and how does that relate to how the author presents Matt 22:28 “ In the resurrection, therefore, of the seven, and Luke without John. them? For example, in the parable of the Good Samaritan, who whose wife will she be? For they all had her.” Tacitus ...... A.D. 64 is the hero, was on the bottom of the social order, yet, he is the Mark 12:23 “ In the resurrection, when they rise again, whose Christus ...suffered the parable’s main character. wife will she be? For the seven had her as wife.” The Synoptic Gospels focus on extreme penalty...at the hands Jesus’ Galilean Ministry, while Luke 20:33 “ In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife will John’s Gospel does not. of one of our procurators, The Gospels Emphasize the Last Forty Days the woman be? For the seven had her as wife.” Pontius Pilatus (Annals, 15.44) The Gospels are not like modern-day biographies. If they were, Figure 5. John’s Gospel is written in a Josephus...... A.D. 100 they would have provided more information about Jesus’ for- different literary style than mative years. Instead, we know little about his life before he was John’s Gospel is quite different, however. Not only is the narrative the first three Gospels. Jesus, who was called 30 years old. In fact, only Matthew’s and Luke’s accounts record style of John simpler and unique, but many of the events in the Christ (Ant., 20.200) anything about his birth or early childhood (Matt 1:18–2:23; Synoptic Gospels are not included in John’s (and vice versa). Pliny the Younger. . . .A.D. 110 Luke 2:1–52, #9–19). Accounting for these differences has given rise to what is called To Emperor Trajan: Though it is true the Gospels focus on Jesus’ 3½-year ministry the Synoptic Problem. Although important, we will not address They [the Christians] recited a hymn * to Christ as (their) God and bound (#20–127), they disproportionately focus on the last 40 days of this text-critical issue. Figure 4 * themselves with an oath not to his life (#128–184; see ). This helps emphasize the su- commit any crime (Letters, 10.96) preme significance of Jesus’ death, resurrection, and post-resur- How Each Gospel Is Unique rection appearances. Each Gospel has its own unique features and perspectives. Just as the letters of Paul were written to various churches, the Gospels The Gospels’ Focus were intended for different audiences. They have unique ways of Gospel 33+ Years (#1–127) 40 Days (#128–184) presenting much of the same material with divergent points of Matthew 65% (Matt 1–20) 35% (Matt 21–28) emphasis along the way. As a result, we are blessed with a four- Mark 63% (Mark 1–10) 37% (Mark 11–16) dimensional portrait of Jesus and his amazing life. Luke 78% (Luke 1:1–19:28) 22% (Luke 19:29–24:52) John 58% ( John 1:1–11:54) 42% ( John 11:55–21:25) The Gospels were written as complete accounts and were not necessarily intended to be combined or even compared with one Figure 4. another. As we go through this survey, keep in mind we are com- The Synoptic Gospels bining these four beautiful documents together. Three of the four Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—are of- Briefly consider a handful of characteristics about each Gospel, ten referred to as the Synoptic Gospels, which means they can including their overall structure.

* The Gospels especially focus on the last week leading up to the crucifix- * A well-known example of the Synoptic Problem can be seen by com- ion. This last week is discussed in detail in Lesson 12, “The Final Week” paring Matthew and Luke’s accounts of Jesus’ three temptations, which (#128–152). have them in different orders (see Figure 18 on page 77). Amazed By Jesus: Lesson 1 | 10

Unique Features of Matthew Evangelist Jesus is called “Immanuel” at the beginning of Matthew, which Literally means “one who means “God is with us.” At the end of this Gospel, Jesus tells his preaches the gospel.” disciples, “I am with you” (Matt 1:23; 28:20). This concept pur- posefully binds together the entire Gospel of Matthew. The authors of the Gospels are often referred to as evangelists. For Quotations from the Old Testament and their fulfillment play a example, “John the evangelist.” prominent role in Matthew’s Gospel. The expression, “this took place to fulfill . . .” or something similar is used numerous times. Matthew views Jesus’ story as the continuation of ancient Israel’s.

The Gospel of Matthew alternates among five major discourses (Figure 6). Each one ends with the expression, “When Jesus had finished these sayings . . .” (Matt 7:28; 11:1; 13:53; 19:1; 26:1). Matthew’s Five Major Discourses Action Taken Citation Section 1. Sermon on the Mount Matt 5–7 #54 2. Commissioning of the Twelve Matt 10 #70b 3. Parables of the Kingdom Matt 13 #64 4. Church Life and Discipline Matt 18 #90–92 5. Woes and the Olivet Discourse Matt 23–25 #137–139 Figure 6. Unique Features of Mark Throughout the second Gospel, the utter astonishment of the people who interact with Jesus is emphasized as Mark uses several different terms to describe their various reactions to him, including astonished, amazed, and marveled.

Mark emphasizes the strong emotions of Jesus. At times, he is filled with compassion or becomes angry at unbelief. There is a sense of urgency in Jesus’ ministry, which is expressed by the re- peated use of the adverb immediately or something similar, which occurs over 40 times in Mark’s Gospel.

Mark’s Gospel consists of two major parts: chs. 1–8 and chs. 9–16. Mark 1:1 declares Jesus is both the “Christ” and the “Son of God.” At the end of the first half, Peter confesses Jesus is the Christ Four Gospels, One Gospel | 11

(Mark 8:29). And, at the end of the second half, a Roman centurion acknowledges Jesus is the Son of God (Mark 15:39) as he witnesses Jesus die on the cross.

Unique Features of Luke Only Luke’s Gospel has a companion volume, which is the book of Acts (cf. Luke 1:1–4, #1; Acts 1:1–2). The ministry of Jesus serves as the first half of the gospel story while the ministry of the apostles and the Holy Spirit is the second half, which is recorded in Acts.

Luke includes several parables that the others do not, including the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30–35, #103). This gospel emphasizes Jesus’ teachings on prayer, the dangers of worldliness and loving possessions over God. The faithful service of several wom- en to Jesus and his ministry is prominently displayed as shining examples throughout Luke. In Luke’s Central Section (Luke 9:51–19:44), Jesus journeys toward Jerusalem (cf. Luke 9:51; 13:22; 17:11; 18:31; 19:11, 28) where he will die on the cross.

Unique Features of John Though the first three Gospels share similar language and focus on Jesus’ Galilean Ministry, the Gospel of John stands apart from them in both respects. For example, the opening chapters (John 1–4) preclude the Galilean Ministry. The Gospel of John also contains no parables and tends to record several long discourses by Jesus not included in the Synoptic Gospels.

The Gospel of John begins with a prologue (John 1:1–18) and ends with an epilogue (John 21). In addition, John’s Gospel consists of two main parts, chs. 1–12 and chs. 13–20.

John 1–12 is called the Book of Signs because it contains seven miracles referred to as “signs” (Figure 7). There are seven “I am” statements, which Jesus makes throughout, all of which are sig- God said to Moses, nificant (seeFigure 42 on page 169). This expression, “I am,” “I AM WHO I AM.” alludes to God’s declaration of his name and eternal nature in —Ex 3:14 Ex 3:14. When Jesus uses the expression, “I am . . .,” he is claiming the status of God and describing lofty attributes about himself. (John 13–20 is often called the Book of Glory.) Amazed By Jesus: Lesson 1 | 12

Jesus’ Seven “Signs” in the Gospel of John Action Taken Citation Section 1. Water to wine John 2:1–11 #29 2. Child raised from deathbed John 4:46–54 #38 3. Paralytic healed John 5:1–9 #49a 4. Feeding of the 5,000 John 6:1–14 #72c 5. Crossing the sea John 6:16–21 #74 6. Blind man receives sight John 9:1–12 #100 7. Lazarus raised from the dead John 11:1– 44 #118 Figure 7.

Conclusion The four Gospels are the centerpiece of the entire Bible. There were many promises made to God’s covenant people in the Old Testament, leading up to the arrival of Jesus. Through his earth- Church Fathers ly ministry, Jesus will fulfill all of these promises, including the Very early Bible scholars establishment of a new covenant with the world (cf. Gen 12:3; who lived in the first few Jer 31:31–34). centuries after the apostles The four Gospels have much in common. A harmony of the This lesson mentions four scholars Gospels divides their contents into manageable, numbered sec- who wrote about the Gospels tions and arranges them chronologically. These numbers, derived in the early centuries A.D. from Thomas and Gundry’s Harmony of the Gospels, will serve as the foundational reference system for this survey. They will help Papias. . . . .A.D. 70–163 us see the overall story of Jesus’ life and ministry. Tat i a n . . . . .A.D. 120–180 Origen. . . . A.D. 184–253 Jesus is the hero of the Gospels. In every situation, he is in absolute control. No one ever gets the better of him, including his Eusebius. . . A.D. 263–339 captors who crucified him. Jesus let that happen because it was why he came to live among humanity. He came “to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matt 20:28).

No one, after encountering Jesus, ever remained the same. People stood amazed in his presence as he performed remarkable miracles. His compassion for others was moving. His preaching mes- merized his audiences as he spoke gracious words of wisdom. And though his life and teachings have made their mark on the annals of history, his death on the cross and his resurrection saved us from our sins. Four Gospels, One Gospel | 13

WHAT DID YOU LEARN IN Lesson 1?

Match the key concept in the numbered list below with the letter of the phrase that best describes it. Answers appear upside-down at the bottom of the page.

Key Concepts Descriptions 1. Gospel A. The ompanionc volume to the Gospel of Luke. 2. Gospel Harmony B. A term that describes the phenomenon of different words 3. Gospel Survey being used to record the same events in the first four books of the New Testament. 4. Eusebian Canons C. A term that literally means “good news” and is also used 5. Acts to refer to the first four books of the New Testament 6. Denouement (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John). 7. Plot D. The postlea who may have assisted Mark in writing his Gospel. 8. Synoptic Gospels E. The ainm events of a story that are devised and presented in 9. Synoptic Problem a sequential and interrelated order. 10. Diatessaron F. A text or group of verses about Jesus’ life and ministry that 11. Peter are similar to another text or group of verses. 12. Parallel passage G. A work that combines the first four books of the New Testament into one seamless story. H. A way derived by ancient Christians to reference similar passages found about Jesus’ life. I. An early attempt to harmonize the records of Jesus’ life contained in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. It literally means “through the four.” J. A literary term that refers to how a story’s loose ends are resolved at the end. K. A term that refers to Matthew, Mark, and Luke apart from the Gospel of John. It literally means “same view.” L. A book that presents a general view of Jesus’ ministry.

Answers 1C, 2G, 3L, 4H, 5A, 6J, 7E, 8K, 9B, 10I, 11D, 12F 11D, 10I, 9B, 8K, 7E, 6J, 5A, 4H, 3L, 2G, 1C, 14 | Amazed By Jesus: Lesson 1

WHAT DID YOU LEARN IN Lesson 1? Do your best to answer the following questions. Some answers can be found in the text of Lesson 1, but not all of them. For others, you will be asked to look up passages in your Bible to find them.

Fill in the Blanks. 1. Name the author of the following books.

1. Matthew: Was he an apostle?

2. Mark : Was he an apostle?

3. Luke : Was he an apostle?

4. John : Was he an apostle?

5. Acts : Was he an apostle?

2. Mark’s gospel is possibly based on the eyewitness testimony of which apostle?

3. What event in Jesus’ life is the main focus of all four Gospels?

4. List some of the earliest attempts to harmonize the gospels.

5. Name three important elements common to stories and narrative literature.

Four Gospels, One Gospel | 15

Multiple Choice. Circle the correct answer.

1. The term gospel literally means . . . A. Good news. B. The message about Jesus. C. Christ. D. God with us. 2. The New Testament letter written by James quotes frequently from which famous sermon by Jesus? A. The Sermon the Mount. B. The Sermon of Parables. C. The Upper Room Discourse. D. The Olivet Discourse. 3. Which gospel records seven “signs” and seven “I am” statements by Jesus? A. Matthew. B. Mark. C. Luke. D. John. 4. What is the key to all good stories? A. Brevity. B. Humor. C. Plot. D. Violence. 5. Jesus’ ministry likely ended in what year? A. 27 B.C. B. A.D. 1 C. A.D. 30 D. A.D. 70 6. What event do the gospels focus on more than any other? A. The birth of Jesus. B. The parable of the Good Samaritan. C. The Lord’s Supper. D. The crucifixion and resurrection. 16 | Amazed By Jesus: Lesson 1

APPLICATION OF Lesson 1. For Discussion. 1. What is the advantage of having four Gospels and not just one?

2. Highlight the similarities among the following parallel accounts from the ESV (blue = all three; yellow = Matthew and Mark only; green = Mark and Luke only). Sec. 48 Jesus defends his disciples for feasting instead of fasting with three parables —Capernaum— Matthew 9:14–17 Mark 2:18–22 Luke 5:33–39 14 Then the disciples of John 18 Now John’s disciples and the 33 And they said to him, “The came to him, saying, “Why do we Pharisees were fasting. And peo- disciples of John fast often and of- and the Pharisees fast, but your ple came and said to him, “Why fer prayers, and so do the disciples disciples do not fast?” do John’s disciples and the disci- of the Pharisees, but yours eat and ples of the Pharisees fast, but your drink.” disciples do not fast?” 15 And Jesus said to them, “Can 19 And Jesus said to them, “Can 34 And Jesus said to them, the wedding guests mourn as the wedding guests fast while the “Can you make wedding guests long as the bridegroom is with bridegroom is with them? As long fast while the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when as they have the bridegroom with them? the bridegroom is taken away them, they cannot fast. 20 The days 35 The days will come from them, and then they will will come when the bridegroom when the bridegroom is taken fast. 16 No one puts a piece of un- is taken away from them, and then away from them, and then they shrunk cloth on an old garment, they will fast in that day. will fast in those days.” for the patch tears away from the 21 “No one sews a piece of un- 36 He also told them a parable: garment, and a worse tear is made. shrunk cloth on an old garment. If “No one tears a piece from a new 17 Neither is new wine put into old he does, the patch tears away from garment and puts it on an old gar- wineskins. If it is, the skins burst it, the new from the old, and a ment. If he does, he will tear the and the wine is spilled and the worse tear is made. 22 And no one new, and the piece from the new skins are destroyed. But new wine puts new wine into old wineskins. will not match the old. 37 And no is put into fresh wineskins, and so If he does, the wine will burst the one puts new wine into old wine- both are preserved.” skins—and the wine is destroyed, skins. If he does, the new wine and so are the skins. But new wine will burst the skins and it will be is for fresh wineskins.” spilled, and the skins will be destroyed. 38 But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. 39 And no one after drinking old wine desires new, for he says, ‘The old is good.’ ”