The lesson discusses the four Gospels in the New Testament, each presenting a unique portrait of Jesus Christ. Matthew emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Israel’s hope and the Davidic King. Mark portrays Jesus as the suffering servant, focusing on His actions and miracles. Luke presents Jesus as the compassionate Savior, emphasizing His humanity and the good news for all people. The Gospels provide different perspectives on the life and teachings of Jesus, collectively revealing the multifaceted nature of the Son of God.

The Gospel of John, written in a world influenced by Greek philosophy, sets out to communicate the story of Jesus Christ to a non-Jewish audience. It differs from the Synoptic Gospels in setting, chronology, and content. John’s unique approach begins with the concept of the “Logos,” appealing to the Greek mind. The Gospel emphasizes divine signs and seven miracles that point to Jesus as the Miracle Worker, inviting people to put their trust in Him. John presents Jesus’ divine claims and purpose to reveal the fullness of the Godhead. Ultimately, the Gospel is evangelistic, urging readers to believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, Son of David, Son of Man, and Lord. The primary aim is to bring people to faith in Christ Jesus.

The book of Acts, written by Luke, serves as a key link between the Gospels and the Epistles. Addressed to Theophilus, it continues the ministry of Christ through His followers, the apostles, who bear witness to Him in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, they spread the good news of the Kingdom of God through works of power, deeds of kindness, and words of forgiveness. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit enables believers to be powerful witnesses for Jesus Christ in this age, fulfilling the promise of the Father.

The lesson introduces the Apostle Paul, his dramatic conversion, and his mission to preach the Gospel of grace to both Jews and Gentiles. The Gospel is explained as the revelation of God’s righteousness and the gracious gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. It emphasizes that all have sinned, but through Christ’s sacrifice, believers are justified and sanctified by the Holy Spirit. The response to the Gospel of grace is described as a transformed life of obedience, serving others, and showing love. This Gospel is meant to be shared with the world, bringing inner transformation to those who believe.

The three letters, 1 & 2 Corinthians and Galatians, written by the Apostle Paul to churches he founded in Greece and Turkey, discuss the Gospel of Grace and address various issues within these congregations. In 1 Corinthians, Paul addresses unity, purity, love, and truth, emphasizing Christ’s resurrection as the foundation of their faith. In 2 Corinthians, he defends his call and ministry, highlighting the evidence of transformed lives and the role of suffering for Christ. In Galatians, Paul confronts false teachings and emphasizes salvation through faith in Christ, reminding believers that living by faith and walking in the Spirit fulfill the true purpose of the law. Throughout these letters, Paul upholds the Gospel of Grace and its transformative power in the lives of believers.

The Gospel of Grace is good news for those who acknowledge their sinfulness and need for a Savior. However, man-made systems of righteousness based on pride often oppose this Gospel. Paul, facing opposition, wrote four letters – Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon – while imprisoned in Rome. In Ephesians, he emphasizes unity and spiritual blessings in Christ. Philippians encourages rejoicing and standing firm in the face of opposition. Colossians highlights the fullness found in Christ, making philosophy and religious regulations unnecessary. Philemon addresses the transformation of slavery through Christ, urging Philemon to receive his runaway slave as a brother in Christ. These letters illustrate the transforming power of the Gospel and its significance in various aspects of believers’ lives.

This session covers four letters written by the Apostle Paul: 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, and Titus. These letters address various challenges faced by early churches and provide instructions for strengthening and guiding them. In 1 Thessalonians, Paul offers comfort and assurance regarding the Lord’s return and encourages steadfastness in the face of persecution. 2 Thessalonians corrects misunderstandings about the timing of the Lord’s return and emphasizes God’s justice and salvation for believers. In 1 Timothy, Paul instructs Timothy on sound doctrine, appointing elders, and caring for the Church. Titus receives similar instructions to strengthen the churches in Crete. Lastly, 2 Timothy serves as Paul’s final words to Timothy, urging him to be faithful in preaching and ministry.

This section of the New Testament, known as the “General Epistles,” addresses challenges faced by early Christian communities as the Gospel spread throughout the Roman Empire. The letters tackle issues such as persecution, false teaching, and the importance of faith and good works. The book of Hebrews emphasizes Christ as the fulfillment of the Old Covenant, while James encourages believers to live out their faith through deeds. Peter’s letters deal with suffering for righteousness, growth in grace, and false teachers. John’s letters focus on the assurance of eternal life and discerning truth from deception. Jude urges believers to contend for the faith against ungodly influences seeking division within the Church.

The book of Revelation is a unique and powerful revelation of the Lordship of Jesus Christ. It unveils Christ as the Lord of the Church, Lord of History, Lord of Lords, and Lord God Almighty. Throughout the book, John receives divine visions, revealing the unfolding of events in heaven and on earth. The book showcases God’s righteous judgments and His triumph over evil, leading to the establishment of the New Jerusalem, where God dwells with His people in perfect harmony. The book concludes with an invitation to all to come and partake in the water of life freely, eagerly anticipating the return of the Lord Jesus Christ.