The 4 Gospel Writers

What are specific things that you learned about the Gospel Writers from the group presentations?

Some specific things that I learned about the Gospel writers would include that all of the original writings were written in Greek! I found that to be particularly interesting, especially considering their location in Jerusalem. Also, three of the four writers' symbols include a winged something. For example, Matthew's symbol is a winged man, Luke's is a winged ox, and Mark's is a winged lion. However, the Gospel Writer John's symbol is an eagle... I wonder why John's was different? When listening to other presentations, I learned that Matthew, Mark, and Luke's Books are all loose synoptics of Jesus' life. John's Book, on the contrary, explains more in depth the faith and personal opinion/belief in Go'd message and in Jesus.

Based on class discussion, what were similarities you saw within the 4 Gospel readings?

Some similarities that I found within the four Gospel Books would include the fact that all of the original books were written in Greek. I thought that was impressive... Other similarities would be that they all have a symbol of some type of creature. Matthew, Mark, and Luke all have symbols consisting of winged creatures, whereas John has the symbol of a soaring eagle. For the most part, these books were written within a century of each other. This makes all the history connections similar, if not the same.

This image represents the symbol of each of the Gospel writers. I find it relevant and an easily comprehensive image to view for better understanding.

Based on class discussion, what were differences you saw within the 4 Gospel readings?

Some differences within the presentations included the dates and timezones when all of the different books were written. Also, the audience for whom the authors were writing to/for were mostly different. Some were Christians, some were Gentiles, others Jews. I found that fascinating how people of the same faith, with mostly the same message, would want to preach to so many different kinds of people within the same century! Other differences would include the symbols, which I mention previously (twice). Something else, that kind of has ties with the timezones would be that all of the Writers had different connections and relationships with Jesus. Some of them didn't even know him or were alive when he was.

From information you gathered from the presentations and class discussions, which Gospel would you prefer to read and why? (Think about time period, first or second hand account, purpose, etc.)

From these presentations, I think I would want to read the Book of John. First, the other three Books seem very historical, even though some were not exactly written during the time of Jesus' life. The Book of John seems more like a spiritual Book. It goes more in depth about self thought and a deep connection with Jesus. Yes, it describes Jesus' life, but in a way that makes it easy to follow and want to be like. I preferred the message of the Book of John for these reasons, but also because it stands out. This Gospel does not (when grouped with the others) "blend in with the crowd".This Book appealed to me for its uniqueness and through a deeper way of reflection.

september 30

works cited

“Book of John.” Google, Google, 28 Sept. 2017, drive.google.com/file/d/0B2dWNn4Tp-mOcGQxT0FudTNuNmM/view.

“Book of Matthew.” Google, Google, 28 Sept. 2017, drive.google.com/file/d/0B7_Ih2hJqKdvSVlMb2ZxRGh2bWs/view.

Davenport, Derek R. “Christian Symbols | Four Gospels.” PreachingSymbols, www.preachingsymbols.com/the-four-evangelists.html.