1. Gospels: Matthew, Luke/Acts
Some basics

2. Matthew
Tried to help new Christians see faith in terms of the Jewish faith
Quotes much from the Old Testament – 57 times
A bridge between history of Israel and the new Church
Presents Jesus as the expected Messiah – the fulfillment of the Torah
Speaks often of the Kingdom of Heaven
God as king just as in Old Testament
In Jesus, this kingdom has arrived

3. Luke/Acts Well written and detailed – 80-90 CE
Well educated- Luke was a doctor
The first church historian
Shows that the Gospel has been brought to the Gentiles
In addition to mark and Q, he uses a source called “L”
L is unique to Luke
Not sure of origin: may have been a separate source or the result of Luke’s interviews

4. Luke Luke places much emphasis on prayer
Gospel often shows Jesus at prayer
We don’t know what Jesus says – he spends time alone in prayer

5. Acts of the Apostles History of the early Church
Shows how the early Church structure developed
Shows the gentiles as more receptive of the Gospel
This is his intended audience