Jesus and the Gospels
Craig Blomberg's comprehensive textbook emerged from his years teaching New Testament studies at Denver Seminary, addressing the need for an academically rigorous yet accessible introduction to Gospel studies that takes seriously both critical scholarship and evangelical convictions. Written during a period of intense scholarly debate over the historical Jesus and Gospel origins, the work seeks to equip students with tools for responsible biblical interpretation while defending the fundamental reliability of the Gospel accounts.
Blomberg methodically examines each Gospel individually, analyzing its distinctive theological emphases, literary structure, and historical context, before addressing broader questions of Gospel relationships, dating, and authorship. He engages extensively with source criticism, form criticism, and redaction criticism, demonstrating how these methods can illuminate rather than undermine Gospel reliability when applied judiciously. The work tackles thorny issues including the Synoptic Problem, the quest for the historical Jesus, and apparent contradictions between Gospel accounts, consistently arguing that careful analysis reveals complementary rather than conflicting perspectives. Blomberg's treatment of miracle narratives, parables, and passion accounts shows particular sophistication in balancing historical-critical insights with theological affirmation.
The book has remained influential in evangelical academic circles for its demonstration that serious engagement with critical scholarship need not compromise commitment to Scripture's authority and reliability. Its careful methodology and comprehensive scope have made it a standard textbook in evangelical seminaries and Christian colleges for over two decades, while its irenic tone toward critical scholarship has facilitated dialogue across theological divides.
Who should read this: Students beginning serious study of the Gospels who want both critical awareness and evangelical perspective will find this indispensable, as will pastors seeking to strengthen their apologetic foundation. Readers looking for devotional material or simple introductions should look elsewhere.