A thorough introduction to the four biblical Gospels and their subject—the life and person of Jesus. Like different artists who render the same subject using unique styles and points of view, the Gospels paint four distinctive portraits of the same Jesus of Nazareth. To Christians worldwide, he is the centerpiece of history, the object of faith, hope, and worship. Even those who do not follow him admit the vast influence of his life. With clarity and insight, biblical scholar Mark Strauss illuminates these four books, addressing the following important areas: The nature, origin, methods for study, and historical, religious, and cultural backgrounds of each of the Gospels. A closer study of the narratives and themes found in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John; and their contribution to our understanding of Jesus. A detailed examination of what the Gospels teach about Jesus' ministry, message, death, and resurrection—with excursions into the quest for the historical Jesus and the historical reliability of the Gospels. For anyone interested in knowing more about Jesus, study of the four biblical Gospels is essential. This fully-updated textbook—together with its workbook, video lectures, and laminated sheet—gives students everything they need for a thorough and enriching study of Jesus and the Gospels.