Lesson 4: Period of Criticism and Revision (Part 2)

Lesson 4 Part 2 Slides

Last night we concluded our investigation around the nature the four gospels. (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John)   What we discovered is that these four writings are THE sources unanimously referenced and used by the early church prior to the councils of AD 325 or 397.  In fact, we read the source material which clearly delineated these four, which have their origin within the 1st century (and most likely before AD 70), as the sources to be used for the study of Christ's life and ministry.  That is not to say other New Testament writings were not unanimously accepted by the early church.  There were many others, all of which we have in our modern translations.  However, we did see that a few of the New Testament writings endured a period where they were "disputed" as to their being God-given.  That is a question we will need to explore at a later time.

Here are the conclusions we reached based on the content of our study together.

1. Our objective at this time is not to determine “Revelation” or “Inspiration” of the gospel accounts, but to determine historical trustworthiness by applying the same tests of historical reliability applied to all historical documents.
2. Authors from the period before Constantine identified the gospels as authoritative and universally accepted.
3. The fact that the gospels were being read and before AD 100 by those who were contemporaries of the Apostles and disciples proves they were written during their era.
4. Other of our New Testament writings were considered authoritative and universally accepted, but some were considered "disputed" for a time.
5. The universal acceptance of the four gospels was established WELL BEFORE Constantine, the Council of Nicaea (AD325) or the Council of Carthage (AD397).

All of these conclusions stand in direct contrast to the arguments given, and generally accepted, by those who have not done their own homework.

Our next endeavor is to understand why we believe we have the original wording of the gospels.  This will be difficult.  At some point we will have to place faith in those who know the material.  But we will do our best to fully understand the arguments and evidence given on both sides of the discussion.

Blessings!

Ricky

worldviewstudy@gmail.com