Jesus and the Gospels: An Introduction and Survey

by Craig L. Blomberg

Jesus and the An Introduction and Survey, Second Edition [Hardcover] Craig L. Blomberg (Author)

Genres: Theology, Biblical Studies, Christian, New Testament, Nonfiction, Religion, Reference

512 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1997

About the author

Dr. Craig Blomberg joined the faculty of Denver Seminary in 1986. He is currently a distinguished professor of New Testament.

Dr. Blomberg completed his Ph.D. in New Testament, specializing in the parables and the writings of Luke-Acts, at Aberdeen University in Scotland. He received an MA from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and a BA from Augustana College. Before joining the faculty of Denver Seminary, he taught at Palm Beach Atlantic College and was a research fellow in Cambridge, England with Tyndale House.

In addition to writing numerous articles in professional journals, multi-author works and dictionaries or encyclopedias, he has authored or edited 20 books, including The Historical Reliability of the Gospels, Interpreting the Parables, commentaries on Matthew, 1 Corinthians and James, Jesus and the Gospels: An Introduction and Survey, From Pentecost to Patmos: An Introduction to Acts through Revelation, Christians in an Age of Wealth: A Biblical Theology of Stewardship, Neither Poverty nor Riches: A Biblical Theology of Possessions, Making Sense of the New Testament: Three Crucial Questions, Preaching the Parables, Contagious Holiness: Jesus' Meals with Sinners, and Handbook of New Testament Exegesis.

Reviews

[Liam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Craig Blomberg’s: Jesus and the Gospels is a masterful work of scholarship. This is the highest ranking biography of Jesus on bestcommentaries.com and it truly shows! This scholarly work integrates five different methods for studying Jesus’ life.

(1) It is a brief history of the period between Old and New Testaments as a historical backdrop for studying Jesus and first-century Israel; (2) part 2 covers the critical methods that scholars use to study documents like Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John; (3) part 3 contains an “introduction proper” to each Gospel, that is, a discussion of who wrote it, when, where, to whom, with what kind of structure, under what circumstances, and with what distinctives; (4) part 4 is more of a scholarly biography - a survey of the life of Christ, with comments on Jesus' primary teachings and actions; and part 5 (5) a synthesis of the major issues surrounding the historicity and theology of Jesus himself.

I know of no other books that cover all 5 of these aspects of the history of Christ. This was the best study of the gospels I have read.

[Claire Syers · Rating 5 out of 5]

How can I not rate my class textbook 5 stars? Don't ask me to remember everything that I read

[Samuel Kassing · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good introduction and survey to the gospels. It is comprehensive in scope and historic in its theological interpretation.

[Jonah Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Probably would give this a 3.8. Covers everything, is up to date on current textual and theological issues. Of course, I had quibbles here and there, but I can’t think of a better textbook for a class, or a better overall survey of the gospels in one single volume.

[Angela Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent introduction and overview of the history, construction, genre and content of each of the Gospels. Great insights, written in an easy to understand and follow style, while not sacrificing the scholarly value or standard. I'd recommend it to anyone interested in seriously examining the aims and claims of Jesus as laid out in the four Gospels, or anyone interested in better grasping the 1st century/2nd Temple Judaism context in which they were written.

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

An intensive guide to the gospels is accurate. Goes into a very in-depth view of the gospels comparing the four gospels, explaining differences through historicity, authorship, and various views of passages. It goes into the life and death of Jesus. Very interesting and academic read

[Daniel Supimpa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A helpful guide for the literature around the four canonical gospels, though a little dated—the Portuguese version is based on the 1997 edition. Blomberg is quite broad in his knowledge of first-century Judaism and Greco-Roman cultures, and the textual intricacies of the biblical text. It’s worth to have it in a reference library. Obs: I’ve read only 5 chapters in detail, checking the footnotes and biblical references; the other ones, I’ve skimmed through mainly. I liked what I’ve seen, though.

[Michael Schmid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent resource for studying the gospels. Thorough research and relevant background information and issues in textual criticism. Though academic in nature, it reads and can be understood very well.

[Adamzc · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great historical foundation provided as to the state of affairs politically, socially and religiously in Israel as Jesus comes on the scene. Thorough and exhaustively cited. Academic read.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great resource for dissecting the Gospels! It gave me great context for the next time I'm reading through them.

[Nathan Crockett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jesus and the Gospels by Craig L. Blomberg

My rating: 3.8 stars

"Jesus and the Gospels" by Craig Blomberg is an extensive and scholarly examination of the life, teachings, and significance of Jesus Christ as presented in the four canonical Gospels - Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Blomberg, a noted New Testament scholar, aims to bridge the gap between academic biblical studies and the lay Christian audience, providing a comprehensive guide to understanding Jesus within His historical and cultural context. This book is widely regarded as a valuable resource for students, pastors, and anyone interested in a deeper understanding of the Gospels.

Content and Structure

The book is meticulously structured to cover a broad range of topics related to Jesus and the Gospels. Blomberg begins with an introduction to the historical and cultural setting of the Gospels, providing readers with the necessary background to understand the world Jesus inhabited. He then moves on to discuss critical issues in Gospel studies, such as authorship, date, and historical reliability, offering a balanced perspective on the debates within biblical scholarship.

Subsequent chapters are dedicated to a detailed analysis of each Gospel, highlighting their unique perspectives and themes. Blomberg delves into the teachings, parables, miracles, and significant events in Jesus' life, such as His birth, baptism, ministry, death, and resurrection. He also tackles challenging questions about the historical Jesus versus the Christ of faith, presenting a well-reasoned argument for the reliability of the Gospel accounts.

Strengths

1. Comprehensive Coverage The book is thorough in its treatment of Jesus and the Gospels, covering historical, literary, and theological aspects.

2. Scholarly yet Accessible Blomberg presents complex scholarly discussions in a manner that is accessible to a non-specialist audience, making the book a valuable resource for a wide range of readers.

3. Balanced Approach He carefully navigates between conservative and liberal interpretations, offering a balanced view that respects the text's integrity while engaging with critical scholarship.

Weaknesses

1. Dense Material Some readers may find the book's comprehensive nature overwhelming, particularly those new to biblical studies or looking for a more introductory text.

2. Limited Engagement with Alternative Views While Blomberg offers a balanced perspective, some critics argue that he could engage more deeply with alternative scholarly views, particularly those outside the evangelical tradition.

Relevance and Audience

"Jesus and the Gospels" is an indispensable resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the New Testament's first four books and the figure of Jesus. Its academic rigor makes it suitable for undergraduate and graduate students in theology and biblical studies, while its clear and engaging style ensures it remains accessible to lay readers interested in a serious study of the Gospels.

Conclusion

Craig Blomberg's "Jesus and the Gospels" stands out as a significant contribution to New Testament studies, offering an in-depth look at the life and teachings of Jesus and the unique characteristics of each Gospel. Its comprehensive scope, scholarly insight, and accessible writing make it a valuable tool for both academic study and personal growth. Despite its dense material, the book successfully bridges the gap between academic biblical studies and the interested lay reader, affirming the historical reliability and spiritual depth of the Gospel accounts.

[Steve Irby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quarantine-Book #1:
I just finished "Jesus and the Gospels," by Craig Blomberg.

Blomberg wanted to write an entry level introductory text that covered the normal topics systematically as shown below--

Historical background: political, religious and socioeconomic.

The critical method of study: historical and literary.

Intro to the gosples:
Mk., Mt., Lk., Jn.

Survey of the life of Christ: the historical Jesus, the birth and childhood, ministry, passion

And theological synthesis: the trustworthiness of the gospels, the theology of Jesus.

I really like how this intro covers a great deal, but not so deep as to loose someone. Then he ends the chapter with introductory, intermediate and advanced options for deeper, further reading by various scholars.

His intertestamental coverage was illuminating; he keeps reflecting on its influence throughout the book along with other extracanonical works. For instance, because of these works we know the picture of a marriage banquet would have read with extreme messianic tones to the Jews of the first century based off of intertestamental and OT writings.

There is so much here. I wish I would have read this work before I read Blombergs Interpretation of the Parables. His coverage of Higher and lower criticisms is great and he neatrly lays it out in a way that allows my mind space to categorize the methods. Also, I have to say, that he covers higher criticism well but conservatively.

His survey of the life of Christ is very good. He covers this vast area of scripture while maintaining enchantment; he affirms God working metanormally.

[Edit: I Blomberg clarified below in the comments with "I wasn't saying we should love enemies only within the church. I was saying we can expect only Christians to love enemies. It wasn't necessarily a mandate for governments and hence a prooftext for pacifism." For the sake of history I've left my proof of misreading--following--unchanged.] I have to admit that I bristled at his final analysis of the sermon on the Mt. It read like Jesus Lite (the sermon ethic is for inner-Family or Church relationships). This is something for me to look into deeper. Though I have to say that if enemy love is only applicable in the Church then we are not any better than the pagans. #Yoder

"The gospel calls us to confront all tribalism, nationalism, or ethnocentrism that would value allegiance to human groups above cross-cultural AGAPE for all people especially all fellow Christians," p 389.

Absolutely wonderful introductory book on Jesus and the gospels.

[Pat Baird · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the longest book that I have finished in quite some time.

Dr. Craig Blomberg in Jesus and the Gospels takes a comprehensive and scholarly look at the person and work of Christ. This book took me about 8 weeks to read as I read it along side my course material for a NT survey class.

I think that anyone who teaches the Bible (pastors, bible teachers, Sunday school leaders, disciplers, etc.) should have this book on their shelf for reference alone. The graphs, theological conversations, hermeneutical commentary, and historical analysis are the strengths of the volume. I see myself referring back to it often in my ministry. This is a scholarly work, but it is defiantly and approachable work. The best thing I can compare it to in the approachability sense is Wayne Grudem’s Systematic Theology. This is not a systematic theology oy but the approachability reminded me a lot of Grudem’s writing.

Practically speaking this work did a lot of different things for me. First, it gave me a robust understanding of each gospel writers’ emphasis in their book and how the nuances of that emphasis comes through in their writing. Second, I learned a plethora of historical nuggets that have elevated my understanding and awe around a variety of different gospel stories I was very familiar with. Third, the book has a bunch of outlines and theological / exegetical graphs that explain really complex topics simply. Fourth, Blomberg acts as a robust conversation partner because every word of the gospels is commented on.

As I think about (Lord willing) going into a pastorate, this work gave me a renewed desire to preach through a gospel. There were moments in this book that I wanted to sing to Christ because of the elements of his ministry I would learn about in this work.

For the Christian reading this review it is a true 5/5. But this is not a sit down and read it through recommendation. Take this review as a friend encouraging you to have it for reference on your shelf.

Personal anecdote: the utilization of Christian art throughout is always a plus. It is a pretty book.

[Eric Yap · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite a good introductory textbook to the canonical gospels, especially the first part on the socioeconomic, cultural, and political context of the intertestamental times leading up to the 1st century, as well as the second part forming the introduction to the various critical methods (form criticism, source criticism, redaction criticism and etc) and the rebuttal of the more radical versions by liberal scholarships. The third part, which is the overview of structure, context, authorship, dating and theology of each canonical gospel is succinct and on point. The fourth part where he tries to survey and harmonize the canonical gospels by breaking them down to narrative episodes seems rather belaboured though, and it struck me as being quite an awkward tension between being too detailed or just a brief introduction, like trying to be an academic/scholarly commentary but lacking in exegetical depth as in commentaries. What was extremely repetitive (and I think unnecessary) across the eight chapters in part four was Blomberg actually making each case specifically for the authenticity and historicity of each narrative episodes, but the conclusion and the reasoning all end up somewhat similar, like "it would look bad on the apostles hence it cannot be a false account" or reasonings along the same vein, over and over again in each narrative episode.

[Tim Conder · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is good in parts, but suffers from trying to do too much (a typical error in a first year text), particularly where the author reaches into areas where he is not an expert.

The historical context presented at the beginning of the book is oversimplified and suffers from repeated errors (calling Julius Caesar the first emperor of Rome as an example). For readers wanting a history of the ancient near East or Roman Empire, there are a number of better resources, even amongst Christian literature, that ought to be preferred.

When the authors moves to principles of exegesis (a topic where he has written whole books) the content is much better and much more engaging. This is where I found the greatest level of value in the book.

The apologetics questions of historicity are simultaneously too much and too little. The author insists on addressing historicity repeatedly and for every portion of the gospels, meaning it takes up a lot of the content of the book. However after the initial discussion of the topic, no new material is added in repeated discussions, raising the question of why it needs to be discussed again. For those looking to persuade or be persuaded this book adds little to a well established debate.

The core of the book is it’s survey of the gospels which is good but not excellent. The author presents good summaries of the individual gospels which are insightful, but the analysis on pericopes through the book are relatively shallow. This is partly due to the length of the book, but in places is notable.

The largest flaw in the book is the lack of overarching structure. The preliminary materials are written in encyclopaedic fashion, which is fine as they would make an adequate reference text for pastors in most places (history and historicity excluded). However, the survey portions become difficult to read because there is no attempt to structure the chapters beyond putting items in narrative order. As a book for learning, this makes it difficult for the student to absorb the conclusions of the book particularly in self study. Effectively it descends into a brief commentary, but for a survey text, such a structure is not conducive to learning.

[Matthew C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an assigned reading for a Life of Christ course that I attended this year. One of the consistent remarks among us students was how tremendously well-read Blomberg is in the field of Gospel studies. In propounding his various conclusions, Blomberg always takes into account the entire breadth of historical and contemporary hypotheses as a groundwork for reasoning for his own position. In this way, the book has a Thomistic framework. Even in the rare positions where I ended up disagreeing with him, I respected his reasoning.

Blomberg tows no lines and is not slavishly dependent on any interpretive tradition, and it shows. I especially appreciated his take on parables, wherein each parable contains one lesson per actor, which I had not heard of previously. I could of course go on with praises of his insights, but this is such a monumental work that I don't know where to start. All said, this is a fantastic introduction to the canonical gospels and the historical life of Christ.

[Jeremy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is intended to be a thorough introduction to the Gospels. One of my favorite parts of the book was the introduction to the world that is the setting for the Gospels. It truly situates them and gives background for many passages. I also enjoyed the section on the historicity of the Gospels, and the chapter on the theology of Jesus. These were great summaries, and well worth the read. The harmony of the Gospels and commentary on each section was a little underwhelming, and I felt my time might have been better spent looking at a variety of commentaries on the passages, but it did allow for some brief comparisons between accounts in different Gospels. All in all, a good addition to my library. Blomberg's style was not stilted, and was readable. If not for the lengthy harmony section, this would be a four-star book.

[Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an excellent academic study on the life of Jesus as recorded in the Gospels. Even though it is somewhat of an academic read I felt the writing style was such that the material was quite easy to understand. There is a broad range of issues that he deals with and he deals with the apologetics of many subjects. I normally do not like or read for fun academic books, however I was able to tolerate this one quite well. It is very thorough and has great footnotes and bibliography for further study that you can take as far as you want.

[Brenna Simpson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lot of good information. Just be prepared that the chapters are insanely long and the language is lofty and academic. Very dry read. However, it’s good content and very helpful to better understanding the text. I enjoyed the content far more than the average textbook. Would recommend to anyone looking to academically depend their knowledge. If someone was looking for a good content book in layman’s terms, this would not be a good fit at all. Specific audience in mind for sure.

[Wes F · Rating 4 out of 5]

Used this book in preparation for teaching a 3-day intensive course--Introduction to the Gospels & the NT--and found it to be very useful. Lots of documentation on background info and solid, biblical exegesis.

[Austin W Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deeper Understanding of The Gospels

If you’re looking to increase your knowledge of the gospels, the history behind them, and the authors that wrote them, this book is an excellent place to start. A deep book that is still within the grasp of most readers. Highly recommended.

[Josiah Richardson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Blomberg gives a general introduction into the major themes and issues in the four Gospels. Used for NT1 at SBTS.

[justin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read it for a class

The first couple chapters were pretty dry. Once it got into the meat of the subject it was very enjoyable.

[Craig Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Found it a fascinating inside to Jesus through the gospels and it was not as deep theologically as I thought.

[Os;AnfW EWF · Rating 4 out of 5]

good entry

[Reid Williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Main text for Gospels class this year. Good introduction and apologetic tool for the 4 Gospels with updated scholarship. Useful resource.

[John Kight · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jesus and the Gospels: An Introduction and Survey by Craig Blomberg has long been praised as one of the best resources available for a serious, well-rounded study of the subject. The first edition was highly acclaimed and received a Gold Medallion Award from the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association. This second edition builds on the success of the prior edition by bringing updated and additional material on sociology and social-scientific criticism, literary criticism, the Gospel of John, the apocryphal and Gnostic Gospels, and issues related to the historicity of the Gospels. The footnotes and bibliography have also been substantially updated to reflect the most recent scholarship, debate, critical methods, as well as the ongoing quest of the historical Jesus.

Jesus and the Gospels is divided into five major sections: (1) Historical Background for Studying the Gospels, (2) Critical Methods for Studying the Gospels, (3) Introduction to the Four Gospels, (4) A Survey of the Life of Christ, and (5) Historical and Theological Syntheses. The reader is certain to appreciate Blomberg’s overall organization as it builds a foundation for the study therein. Section one guides the reader through the political, religious, and socioeconomic background of the Gospels. Blomberg is consistently helpful in this regard and has provided a number of charts and tables throughout to help the reader better grasp the timeline of events and material presented. Section two introduces the reader to historical and literary criticism of the Gospels. This is an excellent introduction for the reader to wrestle with the issues surrounding the Synoptic Problem, Markan Priority, Q-Hypothesis, Redaction Criticism, the formation of the canon, narrative criticism, etc. This section is fairly brief, but comprises some of the best material in the book—especially by way of introduction.

Section three begins the examination of the Four Gospel and provides the reader with the typical introductory material, such as authorship, structure, date, theology, etc. Section four delineates a survey of the life of Jesus. This section starts with an excellent treatment of the issues surrounding the quest for the historical Jesus and subsequently guides the reader through the life of Christ in the gospel narrative. Apart from referencing specific passages in the Gospels, Blomberg has also included the section numbers from the widely used Synopsis of the Four Gospels by Kurt Aland—making it helpful for the reader to cross-reference within the Synoptics and beyond. This section comprises the majority of the book and for good reason. Section five rounds out the investigation with a healthy discussion concerning the trustworthiness of the Gospels—a subject that Blomberg had published on between the first and second editions of this work—and the theology of Jesus found in the Gospels.

Even seven years after the second edition of Blomberg’s Jesus and the Gospels there is still good reason to praise this volume as one of the best resources available on the subject. The reader will consistently be helped by Blomberg’s keen ability to introduce and guide them through some of the murkiest of Gospel waters. This is a book that should be read cover-to-cover, but it is also an extremely useful reference work. The latter is seen most clearly in the abundance of helpful graphs, charts, and tables that are littered throughout, as well as the curated bibliographies that conclude each chapter for further study. Moreover, because of the unique accessibility of this volume, this is also a book that I foresee being useful for laity, and possibly even the basis for an Adult Education or Sunday school course.

If you are looking for an introduction to the Gospels and/or a survey of the life of Christ, I can’t think of a better place to look than Craig Blomberg’s Jesus and the Gospels. Blomberg will provide you with seasoned guidance and deliver the information that you need to know to better grasp the scholarly conversations and issues that surround the Gospels and Jesus, and thus comes highly recommended!

I received a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

[Greg Baughman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a useful resource for the pastor or lay reader. While expansive in its breadth, it is suggestive in its depth. Blomberg does not (or better, could not have in a single volume) delve deeply into any of the topics covered in "Jesus and the Gospels", but his bibliographies at the end of each chapter and the excellent footnotes give the curious reader a very firm direction to head in for further study.

The book is divided into five parts. The first two are largely historical in nature covering the world of the first century (political, social, and religious climate), and the historical/critical approach to the Gospels themselves. Part three is an overview of each of the Gospels highlighting their themes and structure. Part four reads like a cross between the notes one would find in a study Bible and popular level commentary, but arranged more or less chronologically across all the Gospels (almost like a commentary on the Diatesseron?). This is an excellent section, to be sure, and he well highlights (or reminds the reader) of the distinct approach of each Gospel writer. The book concludes with two shorter chapters addressing the historical reliability of the Gospels and the Theology of Jesus.

This is really an excellent book, and I'm sure I will be pulling it off of my shelf as a reference tool. Perhaps only the serious student or most voracious of lay leaders will plow through it cover to cover, but it is a great starting place for almost any topic related to the Gospels. Again, the bibliography and foot notes give solid direction for further study from a wide range of scholars in the field. All of the information in the book can be found in other places, but Blomberg has done anyone interested in Jesus, Christian or not, a great service by pulling it all together into a coherent, (relatively) concise (it is a 500 page book), readable volume. For anyone interested in the study of Jesus, I say "tolle lege."

[Jimmy Reagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

When it comes to New Testament Introduction, the Gospels are so critically important that they are definitely worth a whole volume to themselves. Blomberg has supplied that need as well as any. I read the first edition years ago and was particularly enriched by it. The second edition here is not an extensive revision, though that is a good thing as there are many things too helpful to be changed. The extra material is mostly scholarly developments over the decade between editions.

Part One is outstanding on the historical background including political, religious, and socioeconomic information. He related what you need to step back into that day. Part Two had two chapters on historical and literary critical methods. That was the weakest section to me as there are many elements of that I simply can’t agree with. Still, it was a thorough explanation for what has gone on in the scholarly world involving the Gospels.

Part Three gives a chapter each to specific Introduction for each Gospel. That was likely the section of greatest value for this book. His section on the life of Christ also integrates the individual Gospels approach to it. The final part on historical trustworthiness and theology round out the fine volume.

The book has won awards in the past and this reviewer finds them to be well deserved.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Reid · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fairly readable introduction and commentary on Jesus in the Gospels.
I found it written for the lay person (myself) and a bit stretching, just in the sheer volume. I appreciated the issues he covered in five parts:
1. Historical Background for Studying the Gospels
- political, religious, socioeconomic
2. Critical Methods for Studying the Gospels
- historical criticism, literary criticism
3. Introduction to the Four Gospels
- Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John
4. A Survey of the Life of Christ
5. Historical and Theological Syntheses
- historical trustworthiness of the Gospels, the theology of Jesus.

From the internet blurb:
"This second edition of Jesus and the Gospels prepares readers for an intensive study of Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and the events they narrate. Craig Blomberg considers the historical context of the Gospels and sheds light on the confusing interpretations brought forth over the last two centuries. The original 1997 book won a Gold Medallion Award from the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association, and this updated version, factoring in new scholarship, debate, critical methods, and the ongoing quest of the historical Jesus, ensures the work will remain a top tool for exploring the life of Christ through the first four books of the New Testament."