The Four Gospels: A Guide to Their Historical Background, Characteristic Differences, and Timeless Significance

by William S. Stob

Publisher:

Ambassador

, 2007

Overview

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. Wescott, 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.”

Contents

Top Highlights

“fourth demanding only the spiritual presence and teachings of Jesus to recognize in him the light and life” (Page 19)

“‘Israel was the people of the Sabbath, the pagans are the people of the week.” (Page 20)

“second needing to see him as the divine power in his living activity” (Page 19)

“third requiring a manifestation of God addressed to reason,” (Page 19)

Product Details

• Title: The Four Gospels: A Guide to Their Historical Background, Characteristic Differences, and Timeless Significance
• Author: William S. Stob
• Series: Ambassador Christ and the Gospels Collection
• Publisher: Ambassador
• Publication Date: 2007
• Pages: 382

About William S. Stob

William S. Stob grew up in Cicero, Illinois, and received his early education in private schools associated with the Christian Reformed Church. Later, he studied at Calvin College (A.A.), Elmhurst College (B.A.), and Concordia University Chicago (M.A.). Before moving to Michigan, Bill was a public school teacher, an officer in The Gideons, and a regular speaker at skid-row missions in Chicago. He has taught Sunday school classes in Bible and Baptist churches for over 25 years and, as an avid historian and book collector, has an extensive library with original editions dating back to 1623. Bill and his wife, Becky, were married in 1969 and have two grown daughters, Jennifer and Rachel, who were homeschooled through twelfth grade. Both graduated with honors from Bob Jones University.