The lesson discusses the four Gospels in the New Testament, each presenting a unique portrait of Jesus Christ. Matthew emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Israel’s hope and the Davidic King. Mark portrays Jesus as the suffering servant, focusing on His actions and miracles. Luke presents Jesus as the compassionate Savior, emphasizing His humanity and the good news for all people. The Gospels provide different perspectives on the life and teachings of Jesus, collectively revealing the multifaceted nature of the Son of God.

The Gospel of John, tailored for a non-Jewish audience in a world influenced by Greek philosophy, uniquely introduces Jesus through the concept of the “Logos.” Diverging from the Synoptic Gospels in setting, chronology, and content, it underscores divine signs and seven miracles, portraying Jesus as the Miracle Worker. John emphasizes Jesus’ divine claims, revealing the fullness of the Godhead. The evangelistic focus urges readers to trust Jesus as the Son of God, Son of David, Son of Man, and Lord, ultimately aiming to bring people to faith in Christ.

The Acts of the Apostles, written by Luke, serves as a key link between the Gospels and the Epistles. Addressed to Theophilus, it continues the ministry of Christ through His followers, the apostles, who bear witness to Him in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, they spread the good news of the Kingdom of God through works of power, deeds of kindness, and words of forgiveness. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit enables believers to be powerful witnesses for Jesus Christ in this age, fulfilling the promise of the Father.

The lesson introduces the Apostle Paul, his dramatic conversion, and his mission to preach the Gospel of grace to both Jews and Gentiles. The Gospel is explained as the revelation of God’s righteousness and the gracious gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. It emphasizes that all have sinned, but through Christ’s sacrifice, believers are justified and sanctified by the Holy Spirit. The response to the Gospel of grace is described as a transformed life of obedience, serving others, and showing love. This Gospel is meant to be shared with the world, bringing inner transformation to those who believe.

Paul’s letters—1 and 2 Corinthians and Galatians—address the Gospel of Grace and church issues in Greece and Turkey. 1 Corinthians focuses on unity, purity, love, and truth, with Christ’s resurrection as the faith foundation. In 2 Corinthians, Paul defends his ministry, citing transformed lives and the role of suffering for Christ. Galatians confronts false teachings, stressing salvation through faith and the fulfillment of the law’s purpose by living in faith and the Spirit. Overall, Paul upholds the transformative power of the Gospel of Grace in believers’ lives, emphasizing faith, Christ’s resurrection, and a purposeful walk in the Spirit.

The Gospel of Grace is good news for those who acknowledge their sinfulness and need for a Savior. However, man-made systems of righteousness based on pride often oppose this Gospel. Paul, facing opposition, wrote four letters – Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon – while imprisoned in Rome. In Ephesians, he emphasizes unity and spiritual blessings in Christ. Philippians encourages rejoicing and standing firm in the face of opposition. Colossians highlights the fullness found in Christ, making philosophy and religious regulations unnecessary. Philemon addresses the transformation of slavery through Christ, urging Philemon to receive his runaway slave as a brother in Christ. These letters illustrate the transforming power of the Gospel and its significance in various aspects of believers’ lives.

This session delves into four letters by the Apostle Paul: 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, and Titus. Addressing challenges in early churches, these letters provide guidance. In 1 Thessalonians, Paul comforts believers about the Lord’s return and encourages perseverance in persecution. 2 Thessalonians corrects misconceptions about the timing, emphasizing God’s justice and salvation. 1 Timothy instructs on sound doctrine, appointing elders, and church care. Titus receives similar guidance for strengthening Cretan churches. Finally, 2 Timothy serves as Paul’s farewell, urging Timothy’s faithfulness in preaching and ministry.

This section of the New Testament, known as the “General Epistles,” addresses challenges faced by early Christian communities as the Gospel spread throughout the Roman Empire. The letters tackle issues such as persecution, false teaching, and the importance of faith and good works. The book of Hebrews emphasizes Christ as the fulfillment of the Old Covenant, while James encourages believers to live out their faith through deeds. Peter’s letters deal with suffering for righteousness, growth in grace, and false teachers. John’s letters focus on the assurance of eternal life and discerning truth from deception. Jude urges believers to contend for the faith against ungodly influences seeking division within the Church.

The Book of Revelation is a unique and powerful revelation of the Lordship of Jesus Christ. It unveils Christ as the Lord of the Church, Lord of History, Lord of Lords, and Lord God Almighty. Throughout the book, John receives divine visions, revealing the unfolding of events in heaven and on earth. The book showcases God’s righteous judgments and His triumph over evil, leading to the establishment of the New Jerusalem, where God dwells with His people in perfect harmony. The book concludes with an invitation to all to come and partake in the water of life freely, eagerly anticipating the return of the Lord Jesus Christ.