The Gospels – The Life, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ
Series Overview
We’re taking a journey through all 66 books of the Bible in 8 parts, getting a clear view of how the entire Bible fits together. Today we are in the Gospels!
Each section helps us understand God’s plan of redemption. From creation, through the cross, to eternity.
Whether we’re new to Scripture or seasoned in it, the goal is the same: to love God more by knowing His Word more.
Bible Breakdown: The 66 Books in 8 Sections
- The Law (Genesis – Deuteronomy)
- The History (Joshua – Esther)
- The Wisdom Books (Job – Song of Solomon)
- The Major Prophets (Isaiah – Daniel)
- The Minor Prophets (Hosea – Malachi)
- The Gospels (Matthew – John)
- The Church History and Epistles (Acts – Jude)
- Prophecy (Revelation)
Grand Overview: The Bible’s Unified Story
The Bible is the true story of God’s love and justice. It tells us how sin entered the world, how God prepared a way to redeem us, and how Jesus Christ fulfilled that promise. It’s not a random collection of stories—it’s one message with one Savior at the center.
“Search the scriptures… they are they which testify of me.” — John 5:39 (KJV)
Part 6: The Gospels (Matthew – John)
The Gospels are the centerpiece of the Bible. They tell the story of Jesus—His birth, life, ministry, death, and resurrection. These books don’t just inform us—they transform us. They invite us to know Jesus personally and follow Him as Lord and Savior.
Each Gospel tells the same story from a unique perspective, highlighting different themes and audiences.
Matthew – Jesus Is the Promised King
Matthew was written primarily for a Jewish audience and shows how Jesus fulfills Old Testament prophecies. Over and over, Matthew points back to what was “spoken by the prophet” to prove that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah.
“All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet…” — Matthew 1:22 (KJV)
Matthew highlights Jesus as the King of the Jews, the Son of David, and the rightful heir to the throne.
Mark – Jesus Is the Servant and Savior
Mark is the shortest Gospel and moves quickly. It was likely written for Roman readers and emphasizes Jesus’ actions more than His words. You’ll see “immediately” or “straightway” used often.
“For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” — Mark 10:45 (KJV)
Mark shows Jesus as a servant who suffers and saves. It’s a Gospel of urgency and power.
Luke – Jesus Is the Savior for All
Luke was a doctor and historian. His Gospel is detailed, orderly, and written for a Gentile audience. He emphasizes Jesus’ compassion, especially toward outcasts, women, and the poor.
“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” — Luke 19:10 (KJV)
Luke presents Jesus as the Son of Man who came for all people—Jews and Gentiles alike.
John – Jesus Is the Son of God
John takes a more theological approach. Instead of starting with Jesus’ birth, he begins in eternity past—“In the beginning was the Word.” John’s purpose is clear: to show that Jesus is the divine Son of God, and to invite readers to believe in Him for eternal life.
“These are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.” — John 20:31 (KJV)
John is full of rich imagery: light, life, bread, water, shepherd, vine, and deep teaching about the nature of Jesus and His relationship with the Father.
Themes Across the Gospels
Though each Gospel is unique, they all agree on the essential truths:
- Jesus was born of a virgin
- He lived a sinless life
- He performed miracles and taught with authority
- He died on the cross for our sins
- He rose from the dead on the third day
- He is the only way to God
These books aren’t just ancient records. They are life-changing invitations to trust in Jesus Christ.
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” — John 14:6 (KJV)
Why This Matters to Us
The Gospels are where the promises of the Old Testament are fulfilled. Jesus isn’t just a wise teacher. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. If we miss Jesus, we miss the heart of Scripture.
Reading the Gospels helps us see how to live, love, serve, and sacrifice. More than that, they show us who to trust; Jesus, our Savior and King.
What’s Next
In Part 7, we’ll look at the Church History and Epistles from Acts to Jude. These books show how the early church began, how the gospel spread, and how believers are called to live in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Until then, let’s keep our eyes on Jesus; the author and finisher of our faith.
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