THE GOSPELS
STUDY GUIDE 1.2
Lesson 1: Introduction to the Gospels
Section 2: Status in the Church


OUTLINE FOR NOTES

II. Status in the Church

A. Composition

1. Similarities

  2. Theories of Composition

  3. Certainty

B. Authenticity

  1. Trustworthy Authors

  2. Apostolic Approval

  3. Witness of the Church


REVIEW QUESTIONS

1. What does the word "synoptic" mean?

2. Which of the gospels are considered "synoptic" gospels?

3. In general, what are the similarities and differences of the synoptic gospels?

4. Describe the unique way each gospel has of relating the stories and teachings of Jesus.

5. In general, how is Gospel of John different from the synoptic gospels in terms of the events that it includes?

6. Mention some key events that are included in all four gospels.

7. What theory of the composition of the four gospels is accepted by the majority of scholars?

8. By the end of the second century, had the Church agreed about all of the documents that should be included in the New Testament?

9. What do the early writings tell us about whether the four gospels were always considered by the Church as genuine documents to be included in the New Testament?

10. Eusebius quoted Origen as saying, "The four Gospels...are the only _________ ones in the Church of God under heaven."

11. Eusebius wrote that an important person approved the synoptic gospels. Who was that important person?



APPLICATION QUESTIONS

1. Why do you think it was important for God to leave us four gospels?

2. Did this lesson help build your confidence in the trustworthiness of the four gospels? Explain.