GOSPELAUTHORAUDIENCE WRITTEN TOMAJOR THEOLOGICAL THEMES MatthewJewish-Christian scribeJewish-ChristiansJesus is the fulfillment of Judaic prophecies; he is the new Moses imparting the new Law of Love. MarkPerhaps John-Mark, missionary helper of Paul/PeterA suffering Christian community, perhaps in RomeJesus is the Suffering Servant Messiah; imitate Jesus’ fidelity by not losing heart; the way to glory is through the cross LukeGentile companion of Paul; a doctor; also wrote ActsA Gentile-Christian church, perhaps in southern GreeceJesus’ salvationis open to everyone, especially the oppressed, poor, despised; Jesus is the universal savior JohnA disciple of the “beloved apostle,” JohnSeveral Christian churches around the Roman Empire have been suggested—notably Ephesus, but also Antioch in Syria and AlexandiraMost theologically sophisticated of all the gospels: Jesus is the eternal Word of God, God’s Son who came as Bread for our eternal salvation; He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life Jewish leaders tried Jesus and accused him of blasphemy because he claimed to be God’s Son. They turned him over to the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, who tried, scourged, and crucified him as a seditionist, a so-called “King of the Jews.”At first, Jesus’ humiliating and painful death on the cross made him appear to be a failure. The disciples were disillusioned; their faith shattered; until resurrection took place…then a new hope began!After Jesus’ resurrection, he gave his followers the gift of the Holy Spirit. Through the Spirit, the apostles and disciples began to discover the true meaning of Jesus’ life. Their lives became joyful celebrations of the risen Lord present in their midst.All of above from:Pennock, Michael. Living the Message of the New Testament. Ave Maria Press, Notre Dame, Indiana, 1992.King, Christ asIn Old Testament prophecy:Judah’s tribe…...
