Investigating Jesus through the Gospels

Some say the story of Jesus can not be correct because the Gospels seem to contradict each other.  As you look at the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, think of yourself as a detective.  When a detective interviews multiple people, he expects to get bits and pieces from which he can build the whole story of what happened.  This is the same with the Gospels, each disciple shares the story of Jesus from their unique perspective.  One may leave out a point they either think is not important or are not aware of, whereas another may go into greater detail on something totally different.

"Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? 

Who hath gathered the wind in his fists? 

Who hath bound the waters in a garment? 

Who hath established all the ends of the earth? 

What is his name, and what is his son's name,

 if thou canst tell?" - Proverbs 30:4 (KJV)

What parts of Jesus life do the Gospels cover?

Matthew (28 chapters) emphasizes Jesus as King and Messiah: 

• presents royal genealogy from King David 
• notes Jesus as prophesied Messiah from Old Testament and shows proof via (Christmas) birth and visit by the wise men 
• flight to Egypt and return to Nazareth 
• Jesus as a young man baptized and tempted
• most quotes from Jesus ministry including the Sermon on the Mount (aka Kingdom Laws, Beatitudes) and 14 Parables 
• examples of healing and miracles
• Jesus instructing and sending disciples 
• Christ's transfiguration followed by Easter details of: Last Supper, Gethsemane, betrayal, psalm parade, trial, crucifixion, burial, and resurrection

Mark (16 chapters) emphasizes Jesus as Servant and Teacher:

• covers Jesus' adult ministry, choosing disciples, baptism, plus Easter details 
• shares the most miracles and healing
• gives few parables- scattered seeds, lamp, growing seed, mustard seed, evil tenants

Luke (24 chapters) emphasizes Jesus as the Son of Man

• presents earthly genealogy from 1st man Adam
• most read Christmas story of Jesus birth with angels, shepherds, and prophecies
• Jesus as a child and adult ministry
• birth and ministry of John the Baptist
• Jesus selecting, instructing, and sending disciples 
• examples of healing (including on the Sabbath), parables, and miracles
• portion of the Sermon on the Mount
• calming the storm at sea
• warnings against hypocrisy and greed
• Jesus meets Zacchaeus 
• Easter details of: donkey, betrayal, Last Supper, Mount of Olives prayer, trial, crucifixion, burial,  resurrection, appearance to disciples, and ascension

John ( 21 chapters) emphasizes Jesus as the Son of God 

• covers Jesus' adult ministry, choosing disciples and washing their feet
• John the Baptist testifies of Jesus
• Jesus meets Nicodemus
• examples of healing and miracles
• teaching at and clearing the temple,
• warnings against unbelief
• the raising of Lazarus
• Jesus as the only way to the Father and as the true vine
• introduces Holy Spirit
• repeated and additional Easter details and multiple appearances after death

"That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, 

and things in earth, and things under the earth;\

And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,

 to the glory of God the Father." - Philippians 2:10-11 (KJV)

Every Christian should read God's word for themselves. Reading the Bible helps Christians learn and mature as they go deeper into the Word. All Christians need to plan to read completely through the Bible and pray over what they read.  For new Christians, this could prove a daunting task, so they may want to begin with a study guide or devotional ideas from this blog.  The life of Christ is presented via two Easter and one Christmas devotionals featuring the Gospels on this blog.  Alternatively, newer Christians can ask their pastor or a mature Christian for reading recommendations.