Gospel Formation and Context

Chapter 01: Questions: 1. What do we mean when we say the gospels are not “biographies” of Jesus but something more? 2. What are the three stages in the formation of the gospels? And why are these important for understanding the nature and purpose of a gospel? 3. What role did the church play in the formation of the gospels? And why is that important for us as we set out to read and reflect on the gospels? Chapter 02: Questions: 1. Why is some knowledge of the land and circumstances of first century Palestine helpful in reading the gospels? Consider how the context of your own “world” has shaped your life. 2. What do you consider some of the most important facts about the political and economic situation in which Jesus grew up? 3. The gospels portray the Pharisees in almost totally negative terms. What historical circumstances do we need to keep in mind accessing this image today?