What the Gospels Meant is another thought-provoking book by Garry Wills, author of the fascinating What Jesus Meant and What Paul Meant.

With his impartial examination of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, Wills utilizes his professorship, priesthood studies and his faith to expand the understanding of the gospels. Those who consider the gospels as fact, as well as those who are not afraid to consider them not verbatim history but a compilation of word-of-mouth stories originating after the times they describe, will be invigorated by his unorthodox assessments.

As he examines each of the four gospels, it becomes obvious that they are the individual interpretation of each purported author, as each focuses on a different aspect of the traits of Jesus’ ministry. The four aspects are the selflessness of Jesus’ sacrifice, his lessons and guides for life, his peacemaker side, and his miracle production.

If you are interested in exploring your own preconceptions about the first four books of the New Testament, you must read this book. Wills has given theology and history yet another invaluable addition to scholarly and personal examination of the ultimately impenetrable questions the Gospels create.