Reading the Gospels as Christian Scripture

"A historically informed and theologically sensitive reading of the Gospels"This survey textbook offers an accessible introduction to the four Gospels in their literary, canonical, and theological contexts. Part 1 examines what the Gospels are and how we got four canonical Gospels. Part 2 explores the role history, narrative, and theology play in our reading of the Gospels. Part 3 examines each of the four canonical Gospels from the perspectives of history, narrative, and theology, particularly emphasizing the role they play in discipleship."This wide-ranging treatment of the Gospels does not suffer from bland generalities. Instead, Jipp both reiterates established teaching and offers fresh insights. An untrained reader acquires an introduction to the central issues and even complicated debates with a clear presentation of what really matters. The scholar is equipped with a pedagogical resource that makes connections to art, literature, and culture. Reading the Gospels as Christian Scripture comforts the common anxieties inherent in Gospels studies as well as sparks passion to read, understand, and live these texts. I look forward to sharing this in my parish and my classroom."--Amy Peeler, Wheaton College"Intertwining literary, historical, and theological inquiry, Jipp introduces the complexities and possibilities Christians face when reading the Fourfold Gospel. He draws on a diverse panoply of scholars and poets, theologians and activists to illuminate how these stories have transformed the world by challenging and inspiring followers of Jesus. Both accessible and challenging, this book is an ideal teaching tool for the classroom and a helpful companion for anyone looking to learn anew the shape of the gospel."--Eric D. Barreto, Princeton Theological Seminary"I can hardly wait to share this book with students in my Introduction to the New Testament course. Undergraduate and masters-level students will find it highly instructive and accessible. Jipp offers clear yet nuanced explanations of major scholarly questions and debates in Gospels studies, along with helpful comparative charts and summaries of key points that emphasize their practical implications. The best contribution of Jipp's book is the way it guides us to actually read each of the Gospels in light of their key historical, literary, and theological themes. Readers will gain 'wise sensibilities' and principles for engaging the Gospels as disciples for the purpose of being transformed."--Janette H. Ok, Fuller Theological Seminary"Jipp pursues the questions of what the Gospels are, where they come from, what they say, and, most important of all, why they still matter. Jipp provides a historically informed and theologically sensitive reading of the Gospels that is full of great quotes and amazing insights. He shows with wisdom and erudition that the Gospels are among the most transformative books in the Christian canon."--Michael F. Bird, Ridley College, Melbourne, Australia