Chapter 3 Flashcards
When was Jesus born and when did he die? Who witnessed all of this?
Jesus was born around 4 BC and was crucified in about 30 AD. The first Christians were witnesses of the Resurrection of Jesus.
When were the writings of Jesus edited into forms that are recognisable today?
Between the years 70-95 AD
The Gospels
The four gospels are our major source of information about Jesus. Although there are many similarities between them, each gospel has its own particular emphasis.
The synoptic gospels
The first three gospels, Matthew, Mark and Luke
Acts of the Apostles
The Acts of the Apostles can be read as an exciting history of the early Church. They describe the life of the first Christian community.
The letters
The New Testament contains twenty-one letters. Most of these are attributed to St Paul. Letters served many purposes - helped settle disputes, keep people informed, provide encouragement and give warnings. They were addressed to communities, individuals or no one specific.
The end of the world
The Book of Revelation is attributed to St John, although the authorship is disputed. It contains plenty of symbolism and imagery. Also called the apocalypse. Tells of the battle between Christ and the devil and how Christ will triumph at the end of time.
What was the New Testament about?
The life, death and Resurrection of Jesus as well as the experiences of the first Christians.
What did the early Christians do?
They formed communities, shared stories and sayings of Jesus. They discussed who Jesus was and his instructions to them. At first this was done verbally. Then they were written down.
What are the synoptic gospels?
Matthew, Mark and Luke
