THE GOSPELS
Introduction
The Gospels are books written to testify about the life, work, and teachings of Jesus Christ. Their primary purpose is to affirm that Jesus is the Savior who came to redeem humanity and to encourage readers to place their faith in Him. Each Gospel is composed with the intention of helping readers understand:
- Who is Jesus?
- What did He teach?
- What works did He perform?
The Gospels and History
In addition to conveying spiritual lessons, the Gospels are also considered a form of historical record. They document the life and significant events surrounding Jesus, from His birth to His death and resurrection. This not only helps us understand Jesus better but also provides insight into important historical events of that time.
Characteristics
In the Gospels, Jesus frequently used parables in His teachings. Parables are short stories with deep meanings that convey spiritual truths. Each parable typically carries a central message that Jesus intended to impart, making it easier for the listeners to grasp what He wanted to reveal to them.
THE GOSPELS
How to understand the Gospels
Accept Jesus' Explanation
When Jesus directly explains the meaning of a parable, that explanation is the one we should adhere to. We should not add or change the meaning.
Understand Parables in Context
When studying a parable, we need to consider the context of the story Jesus told. This will clarify the purpose of the parable and help us apply it to our lives. The historical and social context, as well as the specific circumstances of the audience at the time, play important roles in interpretation.
Focus on the Main Message
We should not attempt to interpret every small detail in a parable because most parables emphasize one central message. Understanding this focus helps us grasp the profound meaning that Jesus sought to convey.
The Gospels are not only historical records but also the foundation of Christian faith. They help us better understand the path of redemption that God planned through His Son, Jesus Christ.
THE GOSPELS
How to Study the Gospel Genre
Understand the Historical and Cultural Context
When studying the Gospels, it is essential to explore the historical and cultural context of the time. This helps us gain a clearer understanding of the challenges that Jesus and His disciples faced, as well as the significance of His teachings within the Jewish and Roman societies.
Relate to Other Books in the Bible
The Gospels have many connections with the prophetic books of the Old Testament and the epistles of the New Testament. Understanding these relationships gives us a broader view of God's plan of salvation from the Old Testament to the New Testament.
Analyze Parables and Miracles
To grasp the deeper meaning of Jesus' teachings and the miracles He performed, we need to analyze each story and miracle carefully. This helps us better understand His power and the principles He wanted to communicate for our lives.
Practical Application
After fully understanding the meaning and message of the Gospels, we can apply these lessons to our daily lives. In particular, Jesus' teachings on love, forgiveness, and faithfulness still hold great value for Christians today. When reading the Gospels, we can ask ourselves questions like:
- 'What does this teach me about Jesus?'
- 'How can I apply this principle to become a better disciple?'
These questions help us better understand how to live a life of faith and become disciples of Jesus.
THE GOSPELS
Additional Information
The Teachings of Jesus
The sermons and teachings of Jesus in the Gospels are not just moral stories but invitations to return to God.
The Miracles of Jesus
The miracles that Jesus performed served to demonstrate His power and as signs that the Kingdom of God had come.
The Resurrection of Jesus
The resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of Christian faith, marking His victory over death and opening the door to eternal life for all who believe in Him.