Appreciating the Gospel Presentations of Christ
Description: Appreciating the Gospel Presentations of Christ What does the Father want us to appreciate about His Son? A Survey of the Gospels Gods good news to mankind from four unique perspectives Inspired writers: three Jews and one Greek As far
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slide1. Appreciating the Gospel Presentations of Christ What does the Father want us to appreciate about His Son?<br>
slide2. A Survey of the Gospels God’s “good news” to mankind from four unique perspectives
Inspired writers: three Jews and one Greek
As far as we know, Luke is the only Gentile writer in the entire Bible.
Deliberate variations, exclusions, and inclusions in accounts
Not a complete biography
Gaps in the Lord’s life history
What the Father wants us to know of His Son (Heb. 1:2)<br>
slide3. Why Four Gospels? Perfect representation of God’s Son through four unique vantage points.
The number four is the first number that is divisible (4 ÷ 2 = 2). But, God rarely divides four in this way to reveal divine mysteries in Scripture; He normally combines the numbers one and three to create four.
By devising a three-and-one Gospel format (the Synoptic Gospels and John), God has upheld the symbolic scriptural meanings of the numbers one and three in representing His Son to the world.
The number one represents divine unity and speaks of the Creator.
The number three signifies divine fullness and perfection.
Four is the number pertaining to earthly order. It is the best number to declare how God’s Son willingly came from heaven to the earth for the purpose of suffering and dying for others.<br>
slide4. Why Four Gospels? Four represents Earthly Order in Scripture.
Four were required to provide perfect presentation of the Son – consistent with OT presentation.
Four, in the Bible, is the number pertaining to the earth:
Four seasons (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)
Four regions and winds (north, south, east, and west)
Four divisions of day (morning, noon, evening, and night)
Four regions where creatures dwell (upon the earth, under the earth, above the earth, in the sea).
Four classes of inhabitants on earth (kindred, tongue, and people, and nation – Rev. 5:9)
Four kinds of soil in the world (hard, stony, thorny, and good – Matt. 13)
Four phases of the moon (new, half, full, half)<br>
slide5. The Gospel Application of “Four” Symbolically, four is then used to present God’s Son, coming from heaven to earth (to humanity).
One river out of Eden (God’s presence) became “four heads” upon “the whole land” (Gen. 2:10).
The four Branches
“Unto David righteous Branch, and a King” (Jer. 23:5 – Matthew’s account)
“My Servant the Branch” (Zech. 3:8 – Mark’s account)
“Behold the Man whose name is the Branch” (Zech. 6:12 – Luke’s account)
“The Branch of the Lord be beautiful and glorious” (Isa. 4:2 – John’s Account)<br>
slide6. The Gospel Application of “Four” The four faces of the Cherubim/Four Living Creatures (Ezek. 1, Rev. 4)
Lion – King Ox – Servant
Man – Humanity Eagle – Deity
The four pillars in which the inner veil of four colors hung on in the tabernacle/temple (Ex. 26:31-32)
Christ’s flesh was a veil (Heb. 10:19-20) – separated/connected God and man
Tabernacle: Transition one to four: One Holy Place, Ark, Mercy Seat to Inner veil hung on four pillars: wood (humanity) overlaid with gold (Christ’s deity).
Four: ceiling fabrics, wings, colors, posts, horns, and curtains (at entrance of the courtyard)<br>
slide7. Gospel Overview<br>
slide8. MATTHEW<br>
slide9. Matthew Why first?
Connects OT messianic promises with NT fulfillment after 400 years of silence.
Last book in Hebrew Bible is Chronicles (9 chapters of genealogies: Adam to 400 BC).
Matthew begins by completing the Messianic genealogy – concludes with Jesus Christ (1:16).
Jewish in flavor, Christ “fulfills” (occurs 16 times) OT prophecies/promises made to Israel.
Kingship stressed: Wedding Feast parable: Luke: “a certain man,” Matthew: “a certain King”<br>
slide10. Matthew - Theme Opening sentence introduces the theme, “The book of generation of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham.”
Son of David is addressed first (kingly focus), before Son of Abraham.
Son of Abraham is wider in scope: “all families of the earth be blessed” (Gen. 12:3).
David’s throne will continue forever (2 Sam. 7:13) – Jesus Christ is a descendant of David.
Ten times Jesus Christ is addressed/referred to as “Son of David” in Matthew (e.g., Mark - thrice, Luke – twice).
Matthew’s genealogy establishes the legal right of Jesus Christ to the throne through Joseph.
Luke’s genealogy provides human connection via the virgin Mary back to Adam.<br>
slide11. Matthew - Dispensational Dispensation in Content:
Matthew shows the offering of the king, Jewish rejection, Israel set aside, then grace to Gentiles.
Eastern wise men searched for the King of the Jews, but the Jews did not accompany the magi.
Herod attempted to kill the King, the King is removed to Egypt (where Israel’s history began).
Dispensational in Construction:
Note key divisions in Matthew demonstrating the offering and rejection (Luke 7:29-30):
“From that time … Repent for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt. 4:17).
“From that time forth Jesus began to show unto His disciples, that He must…suffer” (Matt. 16:21) – Transition corresponds with transfiguration.<br>
slide12. Matthew – Points of Interest Miracles (referred to as signs in Matthew) Establish Messiah’s Credentials
Jews required a sign to believe (1 Cor. 1:22, Acts 2:22).
E.g.: When John doubted, Christ said to John’s disciples, “Go and show John again…” (Matt. 11:4).<br>
slide13. Matthew – Points of Interest Unique Features of Matthew
Matthew specifically references mountains to speak of Christ’s earthly kingdom
Mountains symbolize earthly kingdoms in Scripture (e.g. Dan. 2:44-45, Micah 4:1, Rev. 17:9-10)
Matthew’s refs.: Sermon on the Mount, up to a mountain to pray, Transfiguration, Olivet Discourse, Galilee Commission
Sermon on the Mount – the manifesto of the King, the coming kingdom’s constitution
Christ speaks as one in authority (fourteen times He says, “I say unto you.”)
At the conclusion of the sermon we read, “the people were astonished as His doctrine: for He taught them as One having authority, and not as the scribes” (Matt. 7:28-29).<br>
slide14. Matthew - Points of Interest Unique Features (cont.)
He commands the angels vs. the angels merely serving Him (Matt. 13:41, 24:30, 26:53).
Christ receives worship ten times in Matthew, while only once in each of the other gospel accounts.
The title “Son of David” is stressed (compare miracle accounts of Luke 11:14 with Matt. 12:22-23).
Focus on specific ministry to the lost house of Israel (Matt. 10:6, 15:22-28).<br>
slide15. Matthew - Points of Interest Unique Features (cont.)
Only Matthew references the Church (Matt. 16:18, 18:17) and only after Israel’s rejection of Christ.
Portions of the Olivet Discourse (much of Matt. 25 is unique to Matthew’s account).
The focus of two witnesses: Matt. 8:28 two possessed with demons, Matt. 9:27 two blind men, Matt. 11:2 two of John’s disciples, Pilate and his wife (Matt. 27 – proclaimed Jesus as a just man), two false witnesses.
No mention of the ascension, leaves Christ on earth and on a mount – picturing His kingdom.<br>
slide16. MARK<br>
slide17. Mark Theme and Audience
Portrays Christ as a lowly and meek servant.
Mark contains few parables (9 of 39 are mentioned), where Matthew contains many.
Mark depicts Christ ministering to the chosen people, while Matthew has Christ testing Israel.
Mark is addressed to a wider (Roman) audience, while Matthew is distinctly Jewish.
Half of the Roman Empire was composed of slaves.<br>
slide18. Mark Mark 1:1 Confronts the Current Political Ideology
Priene (ancient city in SW Turkey) Calendar Inscription:
“Divine Providence … has now set the world in perfect order by bringing into existence Augustus, whom she filled with virtue for the benefit of humanity, sending to us and to those after us a savior who ended war and put all things in order. And when he appeared, the Caesar surpassed the hopes of all those who anticipated such good news… The birthday of the god (Augustus) was for the world the beginning of the good news.”
The Roman Senate deified Julius Caesar and his nephew Augustus (30 BC–AD 14).<br>
slide19. Mark – Designed Omissions No genealogies, no mention of Christ’s birth or childhood experiences
This information is not needed to establish credentials as the Humble Servant of Jehovah
No Sermon on the Mount
in Mark, Christ is serving, not commanding
no Kingdom Manifesto.<br>
slide20. Mark – Designed Omissions (cont.) Only four parable-groups in Mark – Mark’s stories highlight activity:
E.g.: The Sower - working, The Lamp – testimony, Seed Planted – was fruitful, Planting a Vineyard (Matt. – Householder, Mark – Certain man).
Angels minister to Christ in Mark’s account (Mark 1:13), but in Matthew Christ commands the angels.
No sentence is passed on Israel, no woe message to Pharisees or Christ weeping over Jerusalem.<br>
slide21. Mark – Design Omissions (cont.) Divine and Exalted Titles are rare in Mark:
Not called “Immanuel” – “God with us.”
Referred to as the Son of David only once (Matt. – the title occurs 10 times).
No enlisting of a “King”:
Note the difference in the declarations on Triumphal Entry Sunday (compare Matt. 21:9 & Mark 11:9)
Note the difference in the Lord’s words at His transfiguration (compare Matt.16:28 & Mark 9:1)
Note the manner in which the disciples address Christ: Mark – “Master” vs. Matthew – “Lord” (Matt. 8:25 – Mark 4:38; Matt.16:22 – Mark 8:32; Matt. 26:22 – Mark 14:19).<br>
slide22. Mark – Unique Characteristics No introduction – abruptly brought to the beginning of Christ’s ministry.
Mark presents Christ as a lowly Servant, but the first verse guards against undermining His deity.
Usage of “forthwith,” “immediately,” “shortly,” “straightway.”
Eutheos (yoo-theh'-oce); adverb meaning “directly, i.e. at once or soon”
Euthus (yoo-thoos'); adverb meaning “at once.”
Occurrences: Matthew 19, Mark 46, Luke 10, John 7 – keep in mind Mark is the shortest gospel
12 of 16 chapters begin with “And” – Jesus was doing this “and” that – constantly serving.<br>
slide23. Mark – Unique Characteristics Mark contains fewer parables, but more miracles than Matthew.
Mark frequently mentions the hand of the Lord in serving; it is omitted in many other accounts:
E.g.:1:31, 1:41, 5:41, 7:32, 8:22-25, 9:27;
Touching with hands: Mt. (3), Mk. (6), Lk. (2), Jn. (0)
Mark often mentions the eyes of the Lord in seeing; it again is omitted in many other accounts. E.g.: 3:5, 3:34-35, 8:33, 10:21, 11:11<br>
slide24. Mark – How did Christ Serve? With Tenacity – “All men seek for Thee … Let us go into the next towns” (Mark 1:36-38).
Did not seek to be popular – His response to the above was “Let us go …”.
Tenderly – the healing of Simon’s wife’s mother – personal touch (Luke 4:38-39 vs. Mark 1:30-31).
Continue serving despite opposition. E.g.: 2:6-7, 2:16, 2:24, 3:2, 3:6, 3:22, 5:17, 5:40, 6:3, 6:5, 7:1.
Self-Sacrificing. Examples: 3:20, 4:35-36, 4:38, 6:31, 7:34, 8:12
Good Management: “sent them forth two by two” (6:7), “sat down in groups by 100s & 50s” (6:39)
Motivated by love: “And Jesus was moved with compassion” (1:41), also see 6:34, 8:1, 10:21
Prayer preceded service. Prayed early in the morning (1:35).
Christ labored with His disciples when He sent them out and He is still laboring today (Mark 16:20).<br>
slide25. LUKE<br>
slide26. Luke Written by a Gentile to a Gentile audience: only Gentile writer of Scripture.
Only in Luke’s account do we have a Gentile flavor:
“The Good Samaritan”
Christ words that “Jerusalem shall be trodden down by the Gentiles, until the time of the Gentiles be fulfilled” (Luke 21:24).
“Behold the fig tree, and all the trees” (Luke 21:29); Matthew only mentions the fig tree.
The Gospel is addressed to a Gentile named of Theophilus, which means “beloved of God.”<br>
slide27. Luke – The Humanity of Christ Presents Christ as “The Son of Man” – link with earth
(25 occurrences in Luke vs. 12 in John)
“Son of Man” is absent from Epistles (except Heb. 2). The Church has a heavenly vs. earthly calling
Unique conception (in the womb – Luke 1:31)
Unique birth (born of a virgin – Luke 1:27, 1:34)<br>
slide28. Luke – The Humanity of Christ Unique nature: “great is the mystery of Godliness. God was manifest in the flesh” (1 Tim. 3:16).
No definite article in Greek text, thus “God was manifest in flesh” vs. “in the flesh.”
“What the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh” (Rom. 8:3).
Unique humanity (Holy – Luke 1:35, compared to Adam who was merely innocent, Eccl. 7:29).
Unique life (in Him is no sin: 1 Jn. 3:5; He knew no sin 2 Cor. 5:21; He did no sin, 1 Pet. 2:24)<br>
slide29. Luke - Presentation Contains a Strong Personal and Human Element
Joseph received divine communication through dreams (Matt.), but Zacharias speaks to an angel (Luke)
An angel personally speaks to Mary at home; only Luke records her song of praise.
Luke’s record of miracles, teachings & parables is more personal, not abstract – “a man” vs “one”.<br>
slide30. Luke – Life of Christ Christ was Born in a Stable/Laid in a Manger (Luke 2)
“No room in the inn” – pictures the world’s estimation of Christ (its condescension)
“Laid in a manger” shows utter poverty, “through His poverty we might be rich” (2 Cor. 8:9).
The manger provided accessibility to all, even lowly shepherds (a palace would limit access)<br>
slide31. Luke – Life of Christ Christ’s Childhood
Only in Luke do we get a glimpse of Christ’s childhood.
At the temple: “sitting in the midst of the teachers, both hearing them, and asking them questions”
Parents: “He went down with them (His parents), and was subject unto them” (Luke 2:51)
Growth: “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52)
Only Luke records that the Lord was “brought up” in Nazareth (Matthew only records that they returned there)<br>
slide32. Luke – Life of Christ (cont.) The Lord’s Ministry
Only Luke gives the Lord’s age when He began His ministry (30 years old; Luke 3:23)
Luke gives the historical/relational points of human interest (Luke 3)
Luke’s order of temptations is chronological, while Matthew arranges climactically unto kingship (Luke 4:1-13).
It was His custom to go to the synagogue on the Sabbath (Luke 4:16-21).
Note, the Lord had to find the passage in Isaiah.
He read, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor…to preach the acceptable year of the Lord,” then He stopped, no day of vengeance now (i.e., two advents).<br>
slide33. Luke – Life of Christ (cont.) The Lord’s Ministry
Luke adds information to show Christ’s compassionate side:
Records the resurrection of the widow of Nain’s only son. (Luke 7:12)
Tells us that Jairus’ daughter (also resurrected) was his only daughter (Luke 8:42).
Only Luke mentions that the father of a demon possessed son, was his only child (Luke 9:38-40).
Only Luke gives the story of Lazarus/the rich man to fully manifest the state of the lost after death.
Luke portrays the Lord as a Man of Prayer (recorded praying 10 times).
Luke refers to the Lord as “the Friend” of the sinner; He often ate with them.<br>
slide34. Luke – Life of Christ (cont.) The Lord’s Suffering and Death
Only Luke records the following events associated with Gethsemane:
the Lord’s anguish in prayer “His sweat was, as it were, great drops of blood falling”
that an angel ministered to Him
that He healed Malchus’ ear
that wailing women followed Him and that He spoke to them
Only Luke describes the conversion of the dying thief.
Only in Luke do two lowly witnesses give testimony to the Lord’s human perfection:
The thief: “This Man has done nothing wrong” (Luke 23:41).
The centurion: “Certainly this was a righteous Man” (Luke 23:47).<br>
slide35. Luke – Life of Christ (cont.) The Lord’s Resurrection and Ascension
Only Luke records the long walk on the Emmaus Road while fellowshipping with two disciples.
Only Luke records that the Lord ate food after His resurrection.
Only Luke records that the Lord led His disciples out of Jerusalem and that before He departed to heaven “He lifted up His Hands, and blessed them” (Luke 24:50).
Luke closes his account with “It came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven” (Luke 24:50). Note the Son of Man did not ascend per se, but was carried up.<br>
slide36. Luke – Life of Christ (cont.) Summary
Luke focuses on the human side of the Lord’s ministry on earth, but at the same time calling our attention to human events surrounding His life, His human emotions and behavior.
Luke presents a touchable caring Savior who is willing to touch and care for others!<br>
slide37. JOHN<br>
slide38. John John’s Presentation
Presents Christ in His deity as the “Son of God.” Occurrences: John (10), Luke (7), Matthew (8), and Mark (3).
John’s audience is the whole world (3:16). Note he marks time to Roman not Hebrew reckoning.
Occurrence of “world”: John (80), Matthew (18), Luke (10), and Mark (5).
Written by the beloved disciple (John does not refer to himself in first person).
Jewish claims on Christ are purely fleshly, but true believers relate to Him as the Son of God.<br>
slide39. John – Uniqueness Part 1 John is vastly different than the synoptic Gospels: exalted in tone, shows the divine glory of Christ
Only in John is the “the only begotten Son” or “the only begotten of the Father” found in the Gospels and in all of the NT; except for 1 Jn. 4:9.
No Parables paroimia (par-oy-mee'-ah) proverb John 10:6 allegory
Dispensational in Content:
Jewish rejection announced in (1:11).
He is going to His Father’s house to prepare a place & then He will return (14:3)
“Other sheep I have, that are not of this fold (Jewish fold). Them also I must bring, and they shall hear My voice; and there shall be one fold (Christian fold) and one Shepherd” (10:16).<br>
slide40. John – Uniqueness Part 2 Only in John do we obtain the full relation of the Holy Spirit to believers.
Only in John is Christ revealed as “The Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world,” as the “Word of God,” and “Bread from Heaven.”
Matthew presents Christ as fulfilling OT prophecy, but John shows the fulfillment of “types”: Examples: Serpent on the pole, the Well supplying living water, Manna, the Good Shepherd, lamp lighting – “Light of the World,” The Vine supplying the branches, The Lamb of God, etc.<br>
slide41. John - Christ’s Divine Attributes Creator: “All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made” (1:3).
Omnipresent: “the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father” (1:18, also 3:15).
Omniscience: “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you” (1:48).
Jesus did not commit Himself to them, because He knew all men (2:24)
“You have had five husbands; and he whom you now have is not your husband” (4:18)<br>
slide42. John - Christ’s Divine Attributes Omnipotent: “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up” (2:19).
Miracles: walked on water, feed the multitudes, moved a boat instantaneously, raised the dead.
Equal with the Father: “I am my Father are one” (10:30)
“The Jews sought…to kill Him…God was His Father, making Himself equal with God” (5:18).
Eternal: “The same (Word) was in the beginning with God” (1:2)
“In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God.” (1:1)<br>
slide43. John - Christ’s Divine Attributes True: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life, no man comes to the Father, but by Me” (14:6).
Just: “My judgment is just” (5:30).
Holy/Sinless: “Which of you convicts Me of sin?” (8:46)
Love: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (15:13).
Grace: “we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace…” (1:14).<br>
slide44. John - Christ’s Divine Attributes Unique Son of God: John said, “this is the Son of God” (1:34).
“The only begotten of the Father” (1:14).
“He that has seen Me, hath seen the Father” (14:9).
Came from Heaven: “For the Bread of God is He which cometh down form Heaven” (6:35).
Laid Aside His glory: “Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was” (17:5).
Controlled Time/Events: “They sought to take Him: but no man laid hands on Him, because His hour was not yet come” (7:30).<br>
slide45. John - Omissions No genealogies: God is eternal.
No description of His baptism: In His baptism, Christ is condescending to identify with the needy.
No record of the temptation: John presents Christ as God and “God cannot be tempted with evil” (Jas. 1:13).
No transfiguration: Christ coming into His earthly kingdom vs. Christ’s heavenly relationship.
No appointing Apostles: In John all ministry and work is left in the hands of the Supreme Son.
No praying Jesus: He is the self-existing One. Erotao, verb that denotes “to ask from an equal.”
No “repent” or “forgive: The sinner is reckoned dead, needing rebirth (3:7) and quickening (5:21).
No parables: Parables purposely revealed/concealed divine truth from those rejecting Him (Matt. 13:10-13): Heavenly stories to connect with an earthly people.
No ascension: As Son of God He was omnipresent.<br>
slide46. John – “Sevens” Seven times “These things have I spoken unto you” appears in John.
Seven times Christ addressed the woman at the well (John 4).
Seven times Christ spoke of Himself as “The Bread of Life” (John 6).
Seven things the Good Shepherd does (John 10).
Seven times Christ made reference to “the hour” in which He would accomplish His Father’s work.
Seven times Christ instructed His disciples to pray in His name.
Seven times the word “hate” is found in John 15.<br>
slide47. John – “Sevens” Seven ministries of the Holy Spirit to the believer are noted (John 16).
Seven times Christ referred to believers as the Father’s “gift” to Him (John17).
Seven times John recorded that Christ spoke only the Word of the Father.
Seven times the writer of John (John) referred to himself but not by name.
Seven important events pertaining to Christ’s ministry appear in all four Gospels: The ministry of John the Baptist as the forerunner of Christ, the feeding of the 5000, Peter’s confession of the Lord Jesus being the Christ, the Triumphal Entry presentation of Messiah, and the crucifixion, burial and resurrection of the Lord.<br>
slide48. Who is Christ? What does the Father want us to understand? The entire Bible speaks of Christ; He is God’s personal message and invitation to mankind!
He is the spirit of prophecy (Rev. 19:10).
All promises of God are yes in Him (1 Cor. 1:20).<br>
slide49. Who is Christ? What does the Father want us to understand? The believer’s complete identity and existence abides with/in Christ.
He is our peace (Eph. 2:4), our joy (John 15:11), and our hope (Tit. 2:13).
He is the foundational Stone of our faith (1 Cor. 3:11), the Shepherd and Bishop of our souls (1 Pet. 2:25), the Head of the Church (Col. 1:18), our Great High Priest (Heb. 4:15), our Advocate with the Father (1 Jn. 2:1), and our Savior (Eph. 5:23).
He is Lord of lords and King of kings (1 Tim. 6:15), the Judge of all (Matt. 25:31-33), the Alpha and the Omega (Rev. 1:11), the Creator (Col. 1:16-17) and the only begotten Son of God (John 3:16).
Without Christ there is no solution to sin, no satisfaction of need, no salvation, no life, and no hope!<br>
slide2. A Survey of the Gospels God’s “good news” to mankind from four unique perspectives
Inspired writers: three Jews and one Greek
As far as we know, Luke is the only Gentile writer in the entire Bible.
Deliberate variations, exclusions, and inclusions in accounts
Not a complete biography
Gaps in the Lord’s life history
What the Father wants us to know of His Son (Heb. 1:2)<br>
slide3. Why Four Gospels? Perfect representation of God’s Son through four unique vantage points.
The number four is the first number that is divisible (4 ÷ 2 = 2). But, God rarely divides four in this way to reveal divine mysteries in Scripture; He normally combines the numbers one and three to create four.
By devising a three-and-one Gospel format (the Synoptic Gospels and John), God has upheld the symbolic scriptural meanings of the numbers one and three in representing His Son to the world.
The number one represents divine unity and speaks of the Creator.
The number three signifies divine fullness and perfection.
Four is the number pertaining to earthly order. It is the best number to declare how God’s Son willingly came from heaven to the earth for the purpose of suffering and dying for others.<br>
slide4. Why Four Gospels? Four represents Earthly Order in Scripture.
Four were required to provide perfect presentation of the Son – consistent with OT presentation.
Four, in the Bible, is the number pertaining to the earth:
Four seasons (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)
Four regions and winds (north, south, east, and west)
Four divisions of day (morning, noon, evening, and night)
Four regions where creatures dwell (upon the earth, under the earth, above the earth, in the sea).
Four classes of inhabitants on earth (kindred, tongue, and people, and nation – Rev. 5:9)
Four kinds of soil in the world (hard, stony, thorny, and good – Matt. 13)
Four phases of the moon (new, half, full, half)<br>
slide5. The Gospel Application of “Four” Symbolically, four is then used to present God’s Son, coming from heaven to earth (to humanity).
One river out of Eden (God’s presence) became “four heads” upon “the whole land” (Gen. 2:10).
The four Branches
“Unto David righteous Branch, and a King” (Jer. 23:5 – Matthew’s account)
“My Servant the Branch” (Zech. 3:8 – Mark’s account)
“Behold the Man whose name is the Branch” (Zech. 6:12 – Luke’s account)
“The Branch of the Lord be beautiful and glorious” (Isa. 4:2 – John’s Account)<br>
slide6. The Gospel Application of “Four” The four faces of the Cherubim/Four Living Creatures (Ezek. 1, Rev. 4)
Lion – King Ox – Servant
Man – Humanity Eagle – Deity
The four pillars in which the inner veil of four colors hung on in the tabernacle/temple (Ex. 26:31-32)
Christ’s flesh was a veil (Heb. 10:19-20) – separated/connected God and man
Tabernacle: Transition one to four: One Holy Place, Ark, Mercy Seat to Inner veil hung on four pillars: wood (humanity) overlaid with gold (Christ’s deity).
Four: ceiling fabrics, wings, colors, posts, horns, and curtains (at entrance of the courtyard)<br>
slide7. Gospel Overview<br>
slide8. MATTHEW<br>
slide9. Matthew Why first?
Connects OT messianic promises with NT fulfillment after 400 years of silence.
Last book in Hebrew Bible is Chronicles (9 chapters of genealogies: Adam to 400 BC).
Matthew begins by completing the Messianic genealogy – concludes with Jesus Christ (1:16).
Jewish in flavor, Christ “fulfills” (occurs 16 times) OT prophecies/promises made to Israel.
Kingship stressed: Wedding Feast parable: Luke: “a certain man,” Matthew: “a certain King”<br>
slide10. Matthew - Theme Opening sentence introduces the theme, “The book of generation of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham.”
Son of David is addressed first (kingly focus), before Son of Abraham.
Son of Abraham is wider in scope: “all families of the earth be blessed” (Gen. 12:3).
David’s throne will continue forever (2 Sam. 7:13) – Jesus Christ is a descendant of David.
Ten times Jesus Christ is addressed/referred to as “Son of David” in Matthew (e.g., Mark - thrice, Luke – twice).
Matthew’s genealogy establishes the legal right of Jesus Christ to the throne through Joseph.
Luke’s genealogy provides human connection via the virgin Mary back to Adam.<br>
slide11. Matthew - Dispensational Dispensation in Content:
Matthew shows the offering of the king, Jewish rejection, Israel set aside, then grace to Gentiles.
Eastern wise men searched for the King of the Jews, but the Jews did not accompany the magi.
Herod attempted to kill the King, the King is removed to Egypt (where Israel’s history began).
Dispensational in Construction:
Note key divisions in Matthew demonstrating the offering and rejection (Luke 7:29-30):
“From that time … Repent for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt. 4:17).
“From that time forth Jesus began to show unto His disciples, that He must…suffer” (Matt. 16:21) – Transition corresponds with transfiguration.<br>
slide12. Matthew – Points of Interest Miracles (referred to as signs in Matthew) Establish Messiah’s Credentials
Jews required a sign to believe (1 Cor. 1:22, Acts 2:22).
E.g.: When John doubted, Christ said to John’s disciples, “Go and show John again…” (Matt. 11:4).<br>
slide13. Matthew – Points of Interest Unique Features of Matthew
Matthew specifically references mountains to speak of Christ’s earthly kingdom
Mountains symbolize earthly kingdoms in Scripture (e.g. Dan. 2:44-45, Micah 4:1, Rev. 17:9-10)
Matthew’s refs.: Sermon on the Mount, up to a mountain to pray, Transfiguration, Olivet Discourse, Galilee Commission
Sermon on the Mount – the manifesto of the King, the coming kingdom’s constitution
Christ speaks as one in authority (fourteen times He says, “I say unto you.”)
At the conclusion of the sermon we read, “the people were astonished as His doctrine: for He taught them as One having authority, and not as the scribes” (Matt. 7:28-29).<br>
slide14. Matthew - Points of Interest Unique Features (cont.)
He commands the angels vs. the angels merely serving Him (Matt. 13:41, 24:30, 26:53).
Christ receives worship ten times in Matthew, while only once in each of the other gospel accounts.
The title “Son of David” is stressed (compare miracle accounts of Luke 11:14 with Matt. 12:22-23).
Focus on specific ministry to the lost house of Israel (Matt. 10:6, 15:22-28).<br>
slide15. Matthew - Points of Interest Unique Features (cont.)
Only Matthew references the Church (Matt. 16:18, 18:17) and only after Israel’s rejection of Christ.
Portions of the Olivet Discourse (much of Matt. 25 is unique to Matthew’s account).
The focus of two witnesses: Matt. 8:28 two possessed with demons, Matt. 9:27 two blind men, Matt. 11:2 two of John’s disciples, Pilate and his wife (Matt. 27 – proclaimed Jesus as a just man), two false witnesses.
No mention of the ascension, leaves Christ on earth and on a mount – picturing His kingdom.<br>
slide16. MARK<br>
slide17. Mark Theme and Audience
Portrays Christ as a lowly and meek servant.
Mark contains few parables (9 of 39 are mentioned), where Matthew contains many.
Mark depicts Christ ministering to the chosen people, while Matthew has Christ testing Israel.
Mark is addressed to a wider (Roman) audience, while Matthew is distinctly Jewish.
Half of the Roman Empire was composed of slaves.<br>
slide18. Mark Mark 1:1 Confronts the Current Political Ideology
Priene (ancient city in SW Turkey) Calendar Inscription:
“Divine Providence … has now set the world in perfect order by bringing into existence Augustus, whom she filled with virtue for the benefit of humanity, sending to us and to those after us a savior who ended war and put all things in order. And when he appeared, the Caesar surpassed the hopes of all those who anticipated such good news… The birthday of the god (Augustus) was for the world the beginning of the good news.”
The Roman Senate deified Julius Caesar and his nephew Augustus (30 BC–AD 14).<br>
slide19. Mark – Designed Omissions No genealogies, no mention of Christ’s birth or childhood experiences
This information is not needed to establish credentials as the Humble Servant of Jehovah
No Sermon on the Mount
in Mark, Christ is serving, not commanding
no Kingdom Manifesto.<br>
slide20. Mark – Designed Omissions (cont.) Only four parable-groups in Mark – Mark’s stories highlight activity:
E.g.: The Sower - working, The Lamp – testimony, Seed Planted – was fruitful, Planting a Vineyard (Matt. – Householder, Mark – Certain man).
Angels minister to Christ in Mark’s account (Mark 1:13), but in Matthew Christ commands the angels.
No sentence is passed on Israel, no woe message to Pharisees or Christ weeping over Jerusalem.<br>
slide21. Mark – Design Omissions (cont.) Divine and Exalted Titles are rare in Mark:
Not called “Immanuel” – “God with us.”
Referred to as the Son of David only once (Matt. – the title occurs 10 times).
No enlisting of a “King”:
Note the difference in the declarations on Triumphal Entry Sunday (compare Matt. 21:9 & Mark 11:9)
Note the difference in the Lord’s words at His transfiguration (compare Matt.16:28 & Mark 9:1)
Note the manner in which the disciples address Christ: Mark – “Master” vs. Matthew – “Lord” (Matt. 8:25 – Mark 4:38; Matt.16:22 – Mark 8:32; Matt. 26:22 – Mark 14:19).<br>
slide22. Mark – Unique Characteristics No introduction – abruptly brought to the beginning of Christ’s ministry.
Mark presents Christ as a lowly Servant, but the first verse guards against undermining His deity.
Usage of “forthwith,” “immediately,” “shortly,” “straightway.”
Eutheos (yoo-theh'-oce); adverb meaning “directly, i.e. at once or soon”
Euthus (yoo-thoos'); adverb meaning “at once.”
Occurrences: Matthew 19, Mark 46, Luke 10, John 7 – keep in mind Mark is the shortest gospel
12 of 16 chapters begin with “And” – Jesus was doing this “and” that – constantly serving.<br>
slide23. Mark – Unique Characteristics Mark contains fewer parables, but more miracles than Matthew.
Mark frequently mentions the hand of the Lord in serving; it is omitted in many other accounts:
E.g.:1:31, 1:41, 5:41, 7:32, 8:22-25, 9:27;
Touching with hands: Mt. (3), Mk. (6), Lk. (2), Jn. (0)
Mark often mentions the eyes of the Lord in seeing; it again is omitted in many other accounts. E.g.: 3:5, 3:34-35, 8:33, 10:21, 11:11<br>
slide24. Mark – How did Christ Serve? With Tenacity – “All men seek for Thee … Let us go into the next towns” (Mark 1:36-38).
Did not seek to be popular – His response to the above was “Let us go …”.
Tenderly – the healing of Simon’s wife’s mother – personal touch (Luke 4:38-39 vs. Mark 1:30-31).
Continue serving despite opposition. E.g.: 2:6-7, 2:16, 2:24, 3:2, 3:6, 3:22, 5:17, 5:40, 6:3, 6:5, 7:1.
Self-Sacrificing. Examples: 3:20, 4:35-36, 4:38, 6:31, 7:34, 8:12
Good Management: “sent them forth two by two” (6:7), “sat down in groups by 100s & 50s” (6:39)
Motivated by love: “And Jesus was moved with compassion” (1:41), also see 6:34, 8:1, 10:21
Prayer preceded service. Prayed early in the morning (1:35).
Christ labored with His disciples when He sent them out and He is still laboring today (Mark 16:20).<br>
slide25. LUKE<br>
slide26. Luke Written by a Gentile to a Gentile audience: only Gentile writer of Scripture.
Only in Luke’s account do we have a Gentile flavor:
“The Good Samaritan”
Christ words that “Jerusalem shall be trodden down by the Gentiles, until the time of the Gentiles be fulfilled” (Luke 21:24).
“Behold the fig tree, and all the trees” (Luke 21:29); Matthew only mentions the fig tree.
The Gospel is addressed to a Gentile named of Theophilus, which means “beloved of God.”<br>
slide27. Luke – The Humanity of Christ Presents Christ as “The Son of Man” – link with earth
(25 occurrences in Luke vs. 12 in John)
“Son of Man” is absent from Epistles (except Heb. 2). The Church has a heavenly vs. earthly calling
Unique conception (in the womb – Luke 1:31)
Unique birth (born of a virgin – Luke 1:27, 1:34)<br>
slide28. Luke – The Humanity of Christ Unique nature: “great is the mystery of Godliness. God was manifest in the flesh” (1 Tim. 3:16).
No definite article in Greek text, thus “God was manifest in flesh” vs. “in the flesh.”
“What the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh” (Rom. 8:3).
Unique humanity (Holy – Luke 1:35, compared to Adam who was merely innocent, Eccl. 7:29).
Unique life (in Him is no sin: 1 Jn. 3:5; He knew no sin 2 Cor. 5:21; He did no sin, 1 Pet. 2:24)<br>
slide29. Luke - Presentation Contains a Strong Personal and Human Element
Joseph received divine communication through dreams (Matt.), but Zacharias speaks to an angel (Luke)
An angel personally speaks to Mary at home; only Luke records her song of praise.
Luke’s record of miracles, teachings & parables is more personal, not abstract – “a man” vs “one”.<br>
slide30. Luke – Life of Christ Christ was Born in a Stable/Laid in a Manger (Luke 2)
“No room in the inn” – pictures the world’s estimation of Christ (its condescension)
“Laid in a manger” shows utter poverty, “through His poverty we might be rich” (2 Cor. 8:9).
The manger provided accessibility to all, even lowly shepherds (a palace would limit access)<br>
slide31. Luke – Life of Christ Christ’s Childhood
Only in Luke do we get a glimpse of Christ’s childhood.
At the temple: “sitting in the midst of the teachers, both hearing them, and asking them questions”
Parents: “He went down with them (His parents), and was subject unto them” (Luke 2:51)
Growth: “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52)
Only Luke records that the Lord was “brought up” in Nazareth (Matthew only records that they returned there)<br>
slide32. Luke – Life of Christ (cont.) The Lord’s Ministry
Only Luke gives the Lord’s age when He began His ministry (30 years old; Luke 3:23)
Luke gives the historical/relational points of human interest (Luke 3)
Luke’s order of temptations is chronological, while Matthew arranges climactically unto kingship (Luke 4:1-13).
It was His custom to go to the synagogue on the Sabbath (Luke 4:16-21).
Note, the Lord had to find the passage in Isaiah.
He read, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor…to preach the acceptable year of the Lord,” then He stopped, no day of vengeance now (i.e., two advents).<br>
slide33. Luke – Life of Christ (cont.) The Lord’s Ministry
Luke adds information to show Christ’s compassionate side:
Records the resurrection of the widow of Nain’s only son. (Luke 7:12)
Tells us that Jairus’ daughter (also resurrected) was his only daughter (Luke 8:42).
Only Luke mentions that the father of a demon possessed son, was his only child (Luke 9:38-40).
Only Luke gives the story of Lazarus/the rich man to fully manifest the state of the lost after death.
Luke portrays the Lord as a Man of Prayer (recorded praying 10 times).
Luke refers to the Lord as “the Friend” of the sinner; He often ate with them.<br>
slide34. Luke – Life of Christ (cont.) The Lord’s Suffering and Death
Only Luke records the following events associated with Gethsemane:
the Lord’s anguish in prayer “His sweat was, as it were, great drops of blood falling”
that an angel ministered to Him
that He healed Malchus’ ear
that wailing women followed Him and that He spoke to them
Only Luke describes the conversion of the dying thief.
Only in Luke do two lowly witnesses give testimony to the Lord’s human perfection:
The thief: “This Man has done nothing wrong” (Luke 23:41).
The centurion: “Certainly this was a righteous Man” (Luke 23:47).<br>
slide35. Luke – Life of Christ (cont.) The Lord’s Resurrection and Ascension
Only Luke records the long walk on the Emmaus Road while fellowshipping with two disciples.
Only Luke records that the Lord ate food after His resurrection.
Only Luke records that the Lord led His disciples out of Jerusalem and that before He departed to heaven “He lifted up His Hands, and blessed them” (Luke 24:50).
Luke closes his account with “It came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven” (Luke 24:50). Note the Son of Man did not ascend per se, but was carried up.<br>
slide36. Luke – Life of Christ (cont.) Summary
Luke focuses on the human side of the Lord’s ministry on earth, but at the same time calling our attention to human events surrounding His life, His human emotions and behavior.
Luke presents a touchable caring Savior who is willing to touch and care for others!<br>
slide37. JOHN<br>
slide38. John John’s Presentation
Presents Christ in His deity as the “Son of God.” Occurrences: John (10), Luke (7), Matthew (8), and Mark (3).
John’s audience is the whole world (3:16). Note he marks time to Roman not Hebrew reckoning.
Occurrence of “world”: John (80), Matthew (18), Luke (10), and Mark (5).
Written by the beloved disciple (John does not refer to himself in first person).
Jewish claims on Christ are purely fleshly, but true believers relate to Him as the Son of God.<br>
slide39. John – Uniqueness Part 1 John is vastly different than the synoptic Gospels: exalted in tone, shows the divine glory of Christ
Only in John is the “the only begotten Son” or “the only begotten of the Father” found in the Gospels and in all of the NT; except for 1 Jn. 4:9.
No Parables paroimia (par-oy-mee'-ah) proverb John 10:6 allegory
Dispensational in Content:
Jewish rejection announced in (1:11).
He is going to His Father’s house to prepare a place & then He will return (14:3)
“Other sheep I have, that are not of this fold (Jewish fold). Them also I must bring, and they shall hear My voice; and there shall be one fold (Christian fold) and one Shepherd” (10:16).<br>
slide40. John – Uniqueness Part 2 Only in John do we obtain the full relation of the Holy Spirit to believers.
Only in John is Christ revealed as “The Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world,” as the “Word of God,” and “Bread from Heaven.”
Matthew presents Christ as fulfilling OT prophecy, but John shows the fulfillment of “types”: Examples: Serpent on the pole, the Well supplying living water, Manna, the Good Shepherd, lamp lighting – “Light of the World,” The Vine supplying the branches, The Lamb of God, etc.<br>
slide41. John - Christ’s Divine Attributes Creator: “All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made” (1:3).
Omnipresent: “the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father” (1:18, also 3:15).
Omniscience: “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you” (1:48).
Jesus did not commit Himself to them, because He knew all men (2:24)
“You have had five husbands; and he whom you now have is not your husband” (4:18)<br>
slide42. John - Christ’s Divine Attributes Omnipotent: “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up” (2:19).
Miracles: walked on water, feed the multitudes, moved a boat instantaneously, raised the dead.
Equal with the Father: “I am my Father are one” (10:30)
“The Jews sought…to kill Him…God was His Father, making Himself equal with God” (5:18).
Eternal: “The same (Word) was in the beginning with God” (1:2)
“In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God.” (1:1)<br>
slide43. John - Christ’s Divine Attributes True: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life, no man comes to the Father, but by Me” (14:6).
Just: “My judgment is just” (5:30).
Holy/Sinless: “Which of you convicts Me of sin?” (8:46)
Love: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (15:13).
Grace: “we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace…” (1:14).<br>
slide44. John - Christ’s Divine Attributes Unique Son of God: John said, “this is the Son of God” (1:34).
“The only begotten of the Father” (1:14).
“He that has seen Me, hath seen the Father” (14:9).
Came from Heaven: “For the Bread of God is He which cometh down form Heaven” (6:35).
Laid Aside His glory: “Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was” (17:5).
Controlled Time/Events: “They sought to take Him: but no man laid hands on Him, because His hour was not yet come” (7:30).<br>
slide45. John - Omissions No genealogies: God is eternal.
No description of His baptism: In His baptism, Christ is condescending to identify with the needy.
No record of the temptation: John presents Christ as God and “God cannot be tempted with evil” (Jas. 1:13).
No transfiguration: Christ coming into His earthly kingdom vs. Christ’s heavenly relationship.
No appointing Apostles: In John all ministry and work is left in the hands of the Supreme Son.
No praying Jesus: He is the self-existing One. Erotao, verb that denotes “to ask from an equal.”
No “repent” or “forgive: The sinner is reckoned dead, needing rebirth (3:7) and quickening (5:21).
No parables: Parables purposely revealed/concealed divine truth from those rejecting Him (Matt. 13:10-13): Heavenly stories to connect with an earthly people.
No ascension: As Son of God He was omnipresent.<br>
slide46. John – “Sevens” Seven times “These things have I spoken unto you” appears in John.
Seven times Christ addressed the woman at the well (John 4).
Seven times Christ spoke of Himself as “The Bread of Life” (John 6).
Seven things the Good Shepherd does (John 10).
Seven times Christ made reference to “the hour” in which He would accomplish His Father’s work.
Seven times Christ instructed His disciples to pray in His name.
Seven times the word “hate” is found in John 15.<br>
slide47. John – “Sevens” Seven ministries of the Holy Spirit to the believer are noted (John 16).
Seven times Christ referred to believers as the Father’s “gift” to Him (John17).
Seven times John recorded that Christ spoke only the Word of the Father.
Seven times the writer of John (John) referred to himself but not by name.
Seven important events pertaining to Christ’s ministry appear in all four Gospels: The ministry of John the Baptist as the forerunner of Christ, the feeding of the 5000, Peter’s confession of the Lord Jesus being the Christ, the Triumphal Entry presentation of Messiah, and the crucifixion, burial and resurrection of the Lord.<br>
slide48. Who is Christ? What does the Father want us to understand? The entire Bible speaks of Christ; He is God’s personal message and invitation to mankind!
He is the spirit of prophecy (Rev. 19:10).
All promises of God are yes in Him (1 Cor. 1:20).<br>
slide49. Who is Christ? What does the Father want us to understand? The believer’s complete identity and existence abides with/in Christ.
He is our peace (Eph. 2:4), our joy (John 15:11), and our hope (Tit. 2:13).
He is the foundational Stone of our faith (1 Cor. 3:11), the Shepherd and Bishop of our souls (1 Pet. 2:25), the Head of the Church (Col. 1:18), our Great High Priest (Heb. 4:15), our Advocate with the Father (1 Jn. 2:1), and our Savior (Eph. 5:23).
He is Lord of lords and King of kings (1 Tim. 6:15), the Judge of all (Matt. 25:31-33), the Alpha and the Omega (Rev. 1:11), the Creator (Col. 1:16-17) and the only begotten Son of God (John 3:16).
Without Christ there is no solution to sin, no satisfaction of need, no salvation, no life, and no hope!<br>