The Four Gospels have been read and studied for nearly 2,000 years. As early as the second century Irenaeus, Church father and martyr, declared that four accounts of the life of Christ were needed - no more and no less! Yet many Christians, in spite of the numerous and excellent commentaries available today, cannot answer the question, “Why four Gospels?” This in-depth volume, which took 20 years to research and 10 years to write, clearly reveals the necessity of a four-fold portrait of Christ. Selected excerpts from some of the most celebrated writers of the past, such as A. Edersheim, Chas. Erdman, F. W. Farrar, Edw. Gibbon, F. L. Godet, D. S. Gregory, F. W. Krummacher, H. H. Milman, G. Campbell Morgan, Arthur Pink, Sir Wm. Ramsay, Chas. Rollin, R. C. Trench, B. F. Westcott, and scores of others, are incorporated throughout the book in order to explain and substantiate the historical background and characteristic differences of the Four Gospels. This work is an excellent reference for teachers, students, and historians, but is designed for Christians in all walks of life. A homeschooling mother stated that the “work is quite readable (even by a pressured mom) and very worthwhile. I especially like the organization of the book, which helped me keep my bearings. The history is fascinating and helpful.”

The Four Gospels have been read and studied for nearly 2,000 years. As early as the second century Irenaeus, Church father and martyr, declared that four accounts of the life of Christ were needed--no more and no less! Yet many Christians, in spite of the numerous and excellent commentaries available today, cannot answer the question, "Why four Gospels?"This in-depth volume, which took 20 years to research and 10 years to write, clearly reveals the necessity of a four-fold portrait of Christ. Selected excerpts from some of the most celebrated writers of the past are incorporated throughout the book in order to explain and substantiate the historical background and characteristic differences of the Four Gospels. This work is an excellent reference for teachers, students, and historians, but is designed for Christians in all walks of life. A homeschooling mother stated that the "work is quite readable (even by a pressured mom) and very worthwhile. I especially like the organization of the book, which helped me keep my bearings. The history is fascinating and helpful."This book is a revision and abridgment of the author's earlier work of the same title, now in an easier-to-read format. The main points remain unchanged, however, and the primary focus is on the characteristic differences of the four Gospels.The nature and needs of the particular audience to which each book is addressed, a major theme of each Gospel, and how Christ is portrayed in His various offices as Prophet (Servant of God), Priest (Son of man), and King (Son of David) are variously explained.The preparation of the world for the reception of the Gospel message, as well as the common testimony of the four accounts are also covered, with major additions and deletions made to the former subject.

For the evangelists and for Paul, the gospel is both narrative and proclamation.