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The Four: A Survey of the Gospels
The Gospels are a fourfold portrait of Jesus.Deftly guiding readers through “the four,” Peter Leithart delves into both the unique perspective of each gospel and their unifying witness to Jesus. The gospels are riddled with themes and types; Leithart reveals them and explains the Old Testament prophecies that intertwine with these apostolic books, as well as their underlying literary structures. He discusses the dating of the books, showing how the timeline of the four gospels lace together, and lays out Israel's history leading up to John the Baptist's birth.For anyone navigating the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, The Four will give you your bearings.
247 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 26, 2010
100 people are currently reading
320 people want to read
About the author
Peter J. Leithart
130 books364 followersPeter Leithart received an A.B. in English and History from Hillsdale College in 1981, and a Master of Arts in Religion and a Master of Theology from Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia in 1986 and 1987. In 1998 he received his Ph.D. at the University of Cambridge in England. He has served in two pastorates: He was pastor of Reformed Heritage Presbyterian Church (now Trinity Presbyterian Church), Birmingham, Alabama from 1989 to 1995, and was founding pastor of Trinity Reformed Church, Moscow, Idaho, and served on the pastoral staff at Trinity from 2003-2013. From 1998 to 2013 he taught theology and literature at New St. Andrews College, Moscow, Idaho, where he continues to teach as an adjunct Senior Fellow. He now serves as President of Trinity House in Alabama, where is also resident Church Teacher at the local CREC church. He and his wife, Noel, have ten children and five grandchildren.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
March 15, 2011
A wonderful follow-up book to Leithart's A House For My Name, this one focusing on the gospels. I hope he plans to do a third to complete the set, focusing on a survey of the entire the New Testament as the completion of God's house.
That said, this book was a great study on the gospels, focusing on the complementary aspects of them, showing the continuity and richness of the theology contained in them. With deft and able skills, Leithart deflects the common assumptions about Jesus. His section on Matthew's Sermon on the Mount was particularly interesting. His chapter on Luke's gospel was especially good, showing how Luke and Acts are both structured identically, revealing that, for Luke, the story of Christ as head (Gospel of Luke) becomes the story of Christ the whole body, the Church (the Acts of the Apostles).
One of the best and most important sections in the book is Leithart's discussion of the Q document, the supposed intermediate gospel relied upon by Matthew and Luke. Most scholars, on the basis of the phantom Q document, argue that Mark was written first, then Matthew and Luke, who copied from Mark and Q. The only problem is that there is no such document as Q, and as Leithart points out, the Q gospel is made up mostly of the prejudices of the scholars who imagined it. As an alternative theory, Leithart shows how the theology of the Gospels answer the questions of the last. So Matthew's gospel raises questions that Mark answers, and Luke answers the questions of Mark, and John completes the picture. Thus, he shows that supposing a missing Q document is completely unnecessary, and actually destroys the theological continuity of the four as they stand. Bold, and refreshing. Highly recommended, especially by such a noted ecumenical scholar.
That said, this book was a great study on the gospels, focusing on the complementary aspects of them, showing the continuity and richness of the theology contained in them. With deft and able skills, Leithart deflects the common assumptions about Jesus. His section on Matthew's Sermon on the Mount was particularly interesting. His chapter on Luke's gospel was especially good, showing how Luke and Acts are both structured identically, revealing that, for Luke, the story of Christ as head (Gospel of Luke) becomes the story of Christ the whole body, the Church (the Acts of the Apostles).
One of the best and most important sections in the book is Leithart's discussion of the Q document, the supposed intermediate gospel relied upon by Matthew and Luke. Most scholars, on the basis of the phantom Q document, argue that Mark was written first, then Matthew and Luke, who copied from Mark and Q. The only problem is that there is no such document as Q, and as Leithart points out, the Q gospel is made up mostly of the prejudices of the scholars who imagined it. As an alternative theory, Leithart shows how the theology of the Gospels answer the questions of the last. So Matthew's gospel raises questions that Mark answers, and Luke answers the questions of Mark, and John completes the picture. Thus, he shows that supposing a missing Q document is completely unnecessary, and actually destroys the theological continuity of the four as they stand. Bold, and refreshing. Highly recommended, especially by such a noted ecumenical scholar.
February 27, 2025
I consider this a "must-read", particulary the first two chapters that set up the context of the Gospels and go into good detail about the gap between the Testaments.
September 21, 2019
Leithart's work "A House for My Name" is a survey of the Old Testament that weaves biblical theological insight throughout and helps the reader understand the scope, stories, and over-arching themes of the Old Testament. "The Four" is his Gospels-version of the same kind of work.
He begins the book reminding the reader of the end of the Old Testament, reminding us of what the people of Jesus's day had known and what they were waiting for. He even includes a history lesson for the times between testaments.
The book really takes off when, in chapter two, we arrive at "The Story of Jesus." That second chapter "introduces" the reader, so to speak, to who Jesus was, and is. Chapter three seeks to answer the question, "Why are there four different Gospels?" The last four chapters are a survey of each of the Gospels. Each section of each chapter is accompanied by discussion questions that help the reader, or a discussion group, interact with the material. This makes the book worth consideration for a small group, or Sunday School class.
One of the things I most appreciated about "The Four" is Leithart's discussion on the dating of the books. This is one of my greatest pet peeves with biblical scholarship. So many today speak so authoritatively on the dating of the gospels--so many with late dates such as 50-100 A.D. But Leithart helps us see how shaky the foundations are for such dates. Those that date the Gospels later, do so largely on the presuppositions of unbelieving scholars that do not believe in the authority of the Bible. Leithart summarizes John Wenham's dating methodology and it is much more satisfactory and much more respectful of the Scriptures themselves.
The main reason I read Leithart, and most likely others, though, is his ability to help his readers see the richness of the biblical text. Leithart has an uncanny ability to see themes and connections in the text that help us understand the Word better, as well as help us become more confident readers ourselves.
The book is full of insights and is written well, making it an engaging and enjoyable read. I highly recommend this as not only an introduction to the Gospels but as a re-introduction for those that want to see some of the things they've likely missed after years of reading the Gospels.
He begins the book reminding the reader of the end of the Old Testament, reminding us of what the people of Jesus's day had known and what they were waiting for. He even includes a history lesson for the times between testaments.
The book really takes off when, in chapter two, we arrive at "The Story of Jesus." That second chapter "introduces" the reader, so to speak, to who Jesus was, and is. Chapter three seeks to answer the question, "Why are there four different Gospels?" The last four chapters are a survey of each of the Gospels. Each section of each chapter is accompanied by discussion questions that help the reader, or a discussion group, interact with the material. This makes the book worth consideration for a small group, or Sunday School class.
One of the things I most appreciated about "The Four" is Leithart's discussion on the dating of the books. This is one of my greatest pet peeves with biblical scholarship. So many today speak so authoritatively on the dating of the gospels--so many with late dates such as 50-100 A.D. But Leithart helps us see how shaky the foundations are for such dates. Those that date the Gospels later, do so largely on the presuppositions of unbelieving scholars that do not believe in the authority of the Bible. Leithart summarizes John Wenham's dating methodology and it is much more satisfactory and much more respectful of the Scriptures themselves.
The main reason I read Leithart, and most likely others, though, is his ability to help his readers see the richness of the biblical text. Leithart has an uncanny ability to see themes and connections in the text that help us understand the Word better, as well as help us become more confident readers ourselves.
The book is full of insights and is written well, making it an engaging and enjoyable read. I highly recommend this as not only an introduction to the Gospels but as a re-introduction for those that want to see some of the things they've likely missed after years of reading the Gospels.
February 17, 2025
I really enjoyed The Four: A Survey of the Gospels, especially the first two chapters, which do a fantastic job of setting the historical background for the life of Jesus. Leithart's emphasis on historical and cultural context adds so much depth to understanding the Gospels.
This is a book I know I'll be returning to for insights in the years to come.
This is a book I know I'll be returning to for insights in the years to come.
May 3, 2024
Excellent. Explains the purpose and themes of each gospel as a literary work, independent of the other 3. Very engaging.
April 29, 2022
I initially gave this book 3 stars, but went back and made it 4, because you know, it's Leithart. This is a really good book, it's just also really technical. Leithart provides a lot of chiastic structures and parallel references from OT passages to the Gospels that are really insightful, just also really technical. This wasn't as fun to read as "A House for My Name." I was expecting a kind of continuation of his OT survey, but that's not really what this was.
I will say, his early chapter on the "intertestamental" period is really interesting. That chapter made me realize that I need to read more on the time period between Malachi and Matthew. A lot happened during that time, which sets the scene for the coming of the Messiah. Also, his final chapter on John is a 5 star chapter; really good stuff.
He quotes a lot from N.T. Wright's book "Jesus and the Victory of God" as well as some other works of Wright. Because of that, I will likely make my way to Wright's book soon enough. Although, I will also say, unlike Leithart, I don't particularly care for Wright's writing style. He can be very long winded and reading his ramblings can be very tedious, causing me to miss the entire point. Anyway, enough of my ramblings.
I'm of the opinion that anything by Leithart is worth reading.
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I will say, his early chapter on the "intertestamental" period is really interesting. That chapter made me realize that I need to read more on the time period between Malachi and Matthew. A lot happened during that time, which sets the scene for the coming of the Messiah. Also, his final chapter on John is a 5 star chapter; really good stuff.
He quotes a lot from N.T. Wright's book "Jesus and the Victory of God" as well as some other works of Wright. Because of that, I will likely make my way to Wright's book soon enough. Although, I will also say, unlike Leithart, I don't particularly care for Wright's writing style. He can be very long winded and reading his ramblings can be very tedious, causing me to miss the entire point. Anyway, enough of my ramblings.
I'm of the opinion that anything by Leithart is worth reading.
---------------------------
Follow!
www.laymansprogress.com
https://www.instagram.com/laymansprog...
January 22, 2022
Excellent survey of the gospels. Chapter 1 on "The New Covenant" provides a great overview of the "intertestamental" period, interacting with Daniel and providing background to the setting of the gospels. Both chapter 2 on "The Story of Jesus" and chapters 4-7 on the individual gospels include lots of helpful interpretations. I especially appreciated chapter 3, where Leithart argues for very early dates of authorship, even concluding there is no reason Matthew could not have been written in the 30s AD.
February 2, 2021
Peter Leithart always provides a great theological and typological reading of Scripture. This survey is approachable and helps you to see how the gospels complete the Old Testament story of Israel. You will likely come away with new insights that you had not seen before. Leithart is both informative and devotional.
February 19, 2024
This book takes a robust biblical theology and uses that lens to walk you through all four gospels. If you struggle to see how all the supposed random stories in the gospels are interconnected then this book is for you.
March 10, 2022
Clear, concise survey of the Gospels. Peter Leithart is a capable reader with a tendency to notice things others miss. Reads with the skill of a literary master.
January 5, 2024
Excellent survey.
August 19, 2024
This is such an easy introduction to the Gospels that both an 8 year old and a seminary professor can glean from and enjoy it.
October 5, 2024
Fantastic!
July 22, 2025
He does a really good job at showing themes and connections all throughout the gospels. The book is overflowing with information and it would probably do me good to read it again but much slower.
March 11, 2024
Will come back later to review...
...aaaaand I'm back with nothing cleverer to say than that I enjoyed it. Just not as much as his OT stuff.
...aaaaand I'm back with nothing cleverer to say than that I enjoyed it. Just not as much as his OT stuff.
August 26, 2025
An excellent book for understanding the historical context of the gospels, as well as the typological significance of the many occurrences and figures in the Old Testament and the gospel accounts.
August 10, 2016
This book is a very accessible introduction to the four gospels found in the New Testament. It is, as it says, a survey; so it is a good place to start. It is also a good book for those seasoned in the scriptures as it gives a refreshing new perspective.
The gospels are seen as a symphony in four movements beginning with Matthew and ending with John. We begin with the Jews (Matthew) and Jesus as Rabbi teaching the true meaning of Torah; followed by Jesus as strong Messiah/ lion sent to spoil the house of Satan but In a surprising suffering servant way (Mark); take the gospel by the Holy Spirit to the marginalized, the poor, the women, the outcasts, and the gentiles (Luke-Acts ) and finish with the Word made flesh who exegetes the Father to us and grants us the Holy Spirit so we too may know the Father ( John). It’s quite a symphony. In the process, the ancient symbols of Matthew as Ox, Mark as Lion, Luke as Eagle, and John as man are elucidated.
Not convinced by the higher critical arguments, Leithart takes the traditional view that Matthew was written first and rejects the modern view of Mark and Q being sources for Matthew and Luke. This is an important part of the book that gives structure to the symphony idea and deserves to be read. This is covered on pages 95-109.
The book has seven chapters but is divided into two sections. The first part (chapters 1 -3) introduces us into the background of the four gospels. In the second part, he covers each gospel separately (chapters 4-7).
The introductory chapters are very important in laying down the Covenantal nature of the gospel message and should not be ignored. They also give fresh insight into the so-called intertestamental period.
The second part is the heart of the book.
The gospels are seen as a symphony in four movements beginning with Matthew and ending with John. We begin with the Jews (Matthew) and Jesus as Rabbi teaching the true meaning of Torah; followed by Jesus as strong Messiah/ lion sent to spoil the house of Satan but In a surprising suffering servant way (Mark); take the gospel by the Holy Spirit to the marginalized, the poor, the women, the outcasts, and the gentiles (Luke-Acts ) and finish with the Word made flesh who exegetes the Father to us and grants us the Holy Spirit so we too may know the Father ( John). It’s quite a symphony. In the process, the ancient symbols of Matthew as Ox, Mark as Lion, Luke as Eagle, and John as man are elucidated.
Not convinced by the higher critical arguments, Leithart takes the traditional view that Matthew was written first and rejects the modern view of Mark and Q being sources for Matthew and Luke. This is an important part of the book that gives structure to the symphony idea and deserves to be read. This is covered on pages 95-109.
The book has seven chapters but is divided into two sections. The first part (chapters 1 -3) introduces us into the background of the four gospels. In the second part, he covers each gospel separately (chapters 4-7).
The introductory chapters are very important in laying down the Covenantal nature of the gospel message and should not be ignored. They also give fresh insight into the so-called intertestamental period.
The second part is the heart of the book.
July 2, 2011
Leithart is always a fascinating read. Very clear writing—so winsome. This isn't an exhaustive survey of the gospels (see Carson & Moo, or Blomberg). But Leithart gives us a sense of the gospels that stick. This is classical, theological writing that reflects on the text. His exegesis flows (though, sometimes questionable) from his reflections, not the other way around.
Leithart is one of the best writers in evangelicalism. He has very simple prose, but very beautiful. It is a delight to read. Very pastoral and very hard to put down. He allows you to taste the truth as it foes by.
Leithart is one of the best writers in evangelicalism. He has very simple prose, but very beautiful. It is a delight to read. Very pastoral and very hard to put down. He allows you to taste the truth as it foes by.
January 22, 2015
I highly recommend it. It is giving me a sharper understanding of the life and times surrounding what happened to Jesus Christ.
Provides a basis for understanding the 4 Gospels in context
is a tremendous springboard for discussion and study and is terrific for group like our men's group.
Provides a basis for understanding the 4 Gospels in context
is a tremendous springboard for discussion and study and is terrific for group like our men's group.
May 7, 2016
This is book was packed full of biblical-theological insights. While I did not agree with every connection that he made, I always gain at least some new insight from Leithart's works. My understanding of the Gospels has been enriched from this book. Highly recommended!
February 28, 2016
It isn't a House for My Name II, but it does include a lot of good stuff. The inter-testamental summary is a really nice, concise resource just to have on the shelf. Very fun.
June 30, 2014
By far the clearest survey of the gospels that I have read. Not comprehensive, but he states that at the outset. Great book for family readings.
April 27, 2024
A follow up to A House for My Name: A Survey of the Old Testament, Leithart turns his attention to surveying The Gospels in The Four: A Survey of The Gospels. Just as in A House for My Name, Leithart does an excellent job walking through The Gospels by writing not as an academic, which he can certainly do, but as a Bible teacher revealing the historical significance of Christ birth and ministry, as well as, each authors synoptic writing style.
I thoroughly enjoyed Leithart’s chapter on the Intertestamental period, where the Maccabean story gives an understanding as to the Jews archetypal presumption of what the Messiah would be like. He also explains the division of Sadducees, Essenes, and Pharisees leading up to the start of Matthew.
Overall, another great book one can add to their library or study of the Gospels.
I thoroughly enjoyed Leithart’s chapter on the Intertestamental period, where the Maccabean story gives an understanding as to the Jews archetypal presumption of what the Messiah would be like. He also explains the division of Sadducees, Essenes, and Pharisees leading up to the start of Matthew.
Overall, another great book one can add to their library or study of the Gospels.
February 18, 2025
Excellent overview of the gospels. He spared no harsh words for revisionists and scholars that want to mess with the dating of these books. It was quite technical at times, so it wasn't quite as easy to read as A House for My Name, but it was still very good. As usual, I was amazed at how he connects seemingly random stories. One connection that stood out to me was the Apostles being sent without food or scrip, and then coming back to the feeding of the 5000 and wondering where the provision would come from, as if they completely missed the lesson of where the provision comes from. Then add the contrast of Herod, the king that beheads, and Jesus, the king that feeds. I always benefit from reading Leithart, and I'm sure to come back to this one again, especially next time I read through the gospels.
February 28, 2025
Leithart at his best - succinct, but not lacking in depth. Wasn't a page too long. Addresses textual/historic issues, broad overview of the content of the gospels, the story of Israel, the story of Jesus, the purpose of parables, and the particular emphases of the four gospels. Lots of insights previously unknown to me. A few times I feel like he was reaching (in typical Leithart fashion), but overall very helpful book - one I'll refer to fairly often.
October 31, 2023
This will now be my top recommendation for an “intro to the gospels” when asked. Leithart briefly covers the intertestamental period before giving a chapter to each gospel. While each of these chapters are short, they contain the perfect balance of literary features and topological musings. Leithart’s prose always leaves me wondering at the beautiful of scripture. Read this book!
February 5, 2024
I love reading Leithart but this was disappointing. It swayed unpredictably from technical to accessible and was highly dependent upon NT Wright and Leithart’s idiosyncracities. That said, even a disappointing book from Leithart still contains gems, and this was no exception
September 13, 2017
Great in two major respects: the overall view of the Four as an organic whole and the distinct contributions of each gospel. Very helpful!
December 19, 2018
The Son exegetes the Father, and Leithart in this survey of the Gospels exegetes the Son. The introduction on Christology alone is worth the price of admission.
June 1, 2021
A really good intro to the Gospels imho.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews