The purpose of Christ's earthly ministry was to make an atoning sacrifice of himself for our sins and to establish a spiritual kingdom. God "has blessed us with all spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ." (Ephesians 1:3) The writings of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are called the four gospels, because they report the good news of the life of Christ. After teaching us the way to live, he died for our sins, and he rose from the dead. He now is reigning in heaven and providing forgiveness and eternal life for us.