Literary genre
Gospel
The Gospels are theological biographies — each selecting and arranging events to present Jesus from a distinct angle (Matthew the king, Mark the servant, Luke the savior of all, John the divine Word). Together they are four witnesses to one Lord.
How to read it
Read each Gospel on its own terms before harmonizing them; the differences are intentional emphases. Watch how every story reveals who Jesus is and what his kingdom is like, and let the passion and resurrection be the destination the whole account drives toward.
Books in this genre
New Testament
Jesus as the promised Jewish Messiah and King, the fulfillment of the Old Testament.
A fast-moving account of Jesus the suffering Servant who calls disciples to take up the cross.
Jesus the Savior for all people — the poor, the outsider, the lost — told with a historian's care.
Jesus as the eternal Word and Son of God — written so that you may believe and have life.