The Genesis of the New Testament- Unveiling the Starting Point of God’s Final Revelation
Where does the New Testament start? This question often arises among readers of the Christian Bible, as the New Testament is a cornerstone of Christian faith and practice. Understanding the beginning of the New Testament is crucial for grasping the historical context and the development of Christian theology. In this article, we will explore the origins of the New Testament and discuss the events that mark its starting point.
The New Testament is the second part of the Christian Bible, following the Old Testament. It primarily focuses on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as well as the early development of the Christian church. The New Testament starts with the Gospels, which are the first four books of the New Testament: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These Gospels provide different perspectives on the life and ministry of Jesus, offering valuable insights into his teachings and the events surrounding his crucifixion and resurrection.
The New Testament officially begins with the Gospel of Matthew, which is believed to have been written around 80-90 AD. Matthew’s Gospel is thought to be the first written of the four Gospels, and it is based on the teachings of Jesus, his miracles, and his parables. The book of Matthew is also unique in that it is written primarily for a Jewish audience, emphasizing Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.
Following the Gospel of Matthew, the New Testament continues with the Gospel of Mark, which is believed to have been written around 65-70 AD. Mark’s Gospel is shorter and more concise than Matthew’s, focusing on the ministry of Jesus and his miracles. It is thought to have been written for a Gentile audience, with a more straightforward narrative.
The third Gospel, Luke, is believed to have been written around 80-85 AD. Luke’s Gospel is unique in that it is the only one to include the birth and infancy narratives of Jesus. Luke’s account is also distinct in its emphasis on the universal salvation message of Jesus, reaching out to both Jews and Gentiles.
Finally, the Gospel of John is believed to have been written around 90-100 AD. John’s Gospel is the most theological of the four Gospels, focusing on the divine nature of Jesus and his relationship with God. It also includes several discourses of Jesus, which are not found in the other Gospels.
After the Gospels, the New Testament continues with the book of Acts, which was written by Luke and is believed to have been completed around 62 AD. The book of Acts tells the story of the early church, starting with the Pentecost event and the spread of the Christian faith throughout the Roman Empire.
In conclusion, the New Testament starts with the Gospels, which provide a comprehensive account of Jesus’ life and ministry. The Gospels are followed by the book of Acts, which details the early development of the Christian church. Understanding the beginning of the New Testament is essential for a deeper appreciation of Christian faith and the history of the church.