Although we are not certain who wrote the Gospels, Tradition gives the credit to Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These men are called the Evangelists, which means “proclaimers of the Good News.” The Gospel of Mark was probably the first to be written. The writers of the Gospels of Matthew and Luke most likely drew their material from Mark and from another source that biblical scholars call “Q.” Because the Gospels of Mark, Matthew, and Luke are so much alike, they are called synoptic. Synoptic means “same view.” John’s Gospel, the last to be written, has the style of a deep, religious poem and contains discourses (long speeches) and stories not found in the other Gospels.
the Church that Jesus founded, enlightening us so we may know the meaning of Scripture. Did you ever wish that you were alive when Jesus was so you could know him better? Actually, because of the Gospels, we probably understand Jesus more than his friends and neighbors did.
A Moment with Jesus Each of the Evangelists—Mark, Matthew, Luke, and John—paint a unique portrait of Jesus in a way that their readers will understand him more easily.
The Gospels were written after Jesus sent the Holy Spirit. As Jesus had promised, the Spirit instructed the apostles and reminded them of all Jesus had taught. With the help of the Holy Spirit, the writers of the Gospels understood Jesus better than the people who knew him when he was living on earth. Through the help of the same Holy Spirit, Jesus is alive for us today. The Holy Spirit continues to be with
MARK .. 63–70
Take a moment now to silently read the Portrait of Jesus in the table below. Then pause and think about which descriptions of Jesus are important to highlight for people today. Ask Jesus to help you proclaim the Good News through your words and actions.
MATTHEW .. 80–100
LUKE .. 70–90
JOHN .. 90–100
Traditional Evangelist
Mark, companion of Peter
Matthew, apostle
Luke, Greek doctor, Gentile, companion of Paul
John, apostle
Symbol from the Opening
Lion (John’s voice in the wilderness)
Man (the human ancestry of Christ)
Ox (Zechariah offering sacrifice)
Eagle (the Divine Word, thoughts soaring above Earth)
Main Audience
Persecuted Christians
Jewish converts
Gentile (non-Jewish) Christians
Christians defending their faith
Characteristics
Short, fast-moving
Quotations from Hebrew Scriptures Five sermons
Infancy stories Warm, human portraits
Poetic, symbols Reflective discourses
Portrait of Jesus
Man of action Man of suffering
Teacher New Moses
Savior and friend of all: sinners, the poor, women, Samaritans
Son of God Giver of life
CHAPTER 3
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