The Gospels and
The World Around Them
Topical studies, background articles, and in-depth resources to help you understand the people, places, and prophecies of the New Testament.
Gospel Background
This page is your starting point for exploring the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—and the world around them. Whether you’re curious about who the 12 disciples were, what life was like in Capernaum, or how Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecy, these New Testament articles provide accessible, biblically rooted insights. These resources are designed for pastors, small group leaders, and curious readers alike.
Most Popular Topics
Why are Matthew, Mark, and Luke Called “The Synoptic” Gospels?
Why is Jesus Called the Son of God and the Son of Man?
23 Prophecies Fulfilled by Jesus Christ
Pontius Pilate: The Roman Governor Who Crucified Jesus – His Role in History and the Bible
The Sermon on the Mount vs The Sermon on the Plain: A Comparison
The Gospel of Luke
The Compassionate Gospel - Jesus for the Marginalized
The Gospel of John
The Revealed Christ
Jesus, the Eternal Word
More Gospel Stories and New Testament Studies
What Are the Gospels in the Bible? Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John Explained
What are the Gospels in the Bible? Learn why there are four, what makes each one unique, and how Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John reveal the life and mission of Jesus Christ.
Understanding Leprosy in the Bible
Explore the biblical understanding of leprosy, from its spiritual significance to its impact on individuals and communities. Learn about key stories like Miriam’s affliction, Naaman’s healing, and Jesus’ miracles. Discover how leprosy was viewed in ancient Israel and its relevance to faith and healing today.
The Herods of the New Testament: A Comprehensive Guide to Their Lives, Legacies, and Importance
Explore the complex world of the Herodian dynasty in the New Testament. Learn about the key figures, including Herod the Great, Herod Antipas, and Herod Agrippa, and their significance in the life of Jesus and the early church.
The Sermon on the Mount vs. The Sermon on the Plain - a Comparison
Discover the key differences and theological insights between the Sermon on the Mount and the Sermon on the Plain. Explore how Matthew and Luke present Jesus’ teachings for today.
Jesus Calms the Storm: A Comparison Across the Gospels
Compare Matthew, Mark, and Luke’s accounts of Jesus calming the storm. Discover unique details, theological insights, and what this powerful miracle means for us today.
Who Were the Twelve Disciples of Jesus?
Do you know the real stories of Jesus’ 12 disciples? Some were fishermen, one was a tax collector, and all changed history.
Capernaum in the Bible
Explore the significance of Capernaum, the ‘town of miracles,’ in the Gospels. Discover its strategic location on the Via Maris, the miracles Jesus performed there, and its role in His ministry. Learn about key biblical events like the healing of the centurion’s servant and the paralytic, and how Capernaum’s fate reflects the power of faith and rejection.
The Baptism of Jesus in the Four Gospels: A Side-by-Side Comparison
How do Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John each describe the baptism of Jesus? Explore key differences, Gospel perspectives, and what this moment reveals about Christ’s mission.
Pontius Pilate: Who He Was, Why He Crucified Jesus, and What Happened Next
Discover who Pontius Pilate was, why he sentenced Jesus to crucifixion, and what happened to him after. Explore both historical and biblical accounts, key facts, and Pilate’s legacy.
23 Prophecies Fulfilled through Jesus
Here are 23 prophecies fulfilled through the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. These prophecies guide humanity to recognize the promised Messiah and their fulfillment strengthens our faith, showing us their power and enduring importance.
Why is Jesus called Son of God and Son of Man?
Discover the meaning of Jesus as Son of God and Son of Man—titles that reveal His divinity, role in salvation, and deep connection to humanity.
Why are Matthew, Mark, and Luke Called “The Synoptic” Gospels?
The beloved gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke share a significant overlap in content, structure, and wording, yet each tells the story of Jesus in profound ways. What does synoptic mean? Why isn’t John included? It’s easier to understand than one might think. Let’s get to it!
Mary's Song and God's Heart
Mary’s Magnificat, or Mary’s Song in Luke 1 shows us God’s heart. In the incarnation of Jesus, God decided to become closely entangled in the messy affairs of humans.
What Does it Mean that Jesus is a Tabernacle?
John 1 teaches that God dwells with us in Jesus Christ. The phrase used is “he tabernacled with us” which references the Old Testament place of worship. What does it mean that Jesus is a tabernacle?
Mary and Martha
Mary and Martha love Jesus, but Martha is distracted by cares, so Jesus invites her into restful worship. How easy it is to lose sight of Jesus in our busyness!
A Full Barn and an Empty Heart Luke 12:12
In Luke 12:12 Jesus tells the story of the Parable of the Rich Fool who had enough yet built bigger barns. The text yield plentiful meaning today as we all wonder what exactly is enough?
The Genuine and True Hope of Our Prayer
Jesus teaches about prayer in Luke 11. What makes our prayer effective? On what do we place our hope when we pray? Is our prayer effective based on our effort o goodness or on something else entirely?