What stories are in all four gospels?

The four Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—each offer unique accounts of the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. While they share many stories, each Gospel has its distinct audience, style, and theological emphasis. However, some narratives are so central to the message of Jesus that they appear in all four accounts. These shared stories highlight key aspects of His life and ministry, providing insights into His character and the nature of His mission. Let’s explore the significant stories that are found in all four Gospels.

The Baptism of Jesus

One of the most foundational stories included in all four Gospels is the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. This event marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and signifies His willingness to identify with humanity. The Gospels depict the moment when Jesus emerges from the water, and the heavens open, with the Spirit descending like a dove and a voice proclaiming, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17, NIV).

This powerful moment encapsulates several theological themes, including the affirmation of Jesus’ divine sonship and the significance of baptism in the life of a believer. The baptism serves not only as a preparatory act before His ministry begins but also as an example for all who seek to follow Him. In reflecting on this story, we are reminded of our own call to repentance and the new beginnings that come through spiritual rebirth.

The Feeding of the 5,000

Another remarkable story that appears in each Gospel is the feeding of the 5,000. This miracle, where Jesus multiplies five loaves of bread and two fish to feed a vast crowd, is a testament to His compassion and divine provision. The details may vary slightly across the accounts, but the overarching narrative remains consistent: Jesus feels compassion for the hungry crowd, performs a miracle, and instructs His disciples to distribute the food.

This miracle not only demonstrates Jesus' power over nature but also serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual nourishment. The episode calls attention to the themes of trust and reliance on God’s provision. As we reflect on this story, we are reminded of the ways God meets our needs, encouraging us to share generously with others, just as the disciples did in distributing the food.

The Triumphal Entry

The Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem is another significant event recorded in all four Gospels. This moment occurs shortly before Jesus’ crucifixion and is characterized by Jesus riding into the city on a donkey while the crowds shout hosannas, laying down palm branches in His path. This scene fulfills Old Testament prophecy and symbolizes Jesus as the humble king who comes to save.

Each Gospel presents unique details; for example, Matthew and John emphasize the prophetic fulfillment aspect, while Mark and Luke highlight the reactions of the crowd. The act of Jesus entering Jerusalem in humility provides a stark contrast to the expectations of a reigning Messiah. In reflecting on this story, we observe the importance of humility, service, and the radical nature of Jesus’ kingdom compared to worldly standards.

The Crucifixion and Death of Jesus

The crucifixion of Jesus is the most pivotal event in Christian theology and is narrated in all four Gospels with varying emphases on different aspects. Each Gospel recounts Jesus’ trial, His journey to Golgotha, the mocking and suffering He endured, and His final words before His death. This event is central to the Christian faith, as it embodies the sacrificial love of Jesus and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.

While the Gospels provide differing details about the events surrounding the crucifixion, such as the specific individuals involved and the accompanying signs, they all stress the significance of Jesus’ death for the salvation of humanity. This story challenges believers to consider the depth of Christ’s love and the lengths He went to reconcile humanity with God. It invites reflection on themes of sacrifice, forgiveness, and the incredible grace that flows from the cross.

The Resurrection

The resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of Christian belief and is, understandably, present in all four Gospels. This critical event recounts how, three days after His crucifixion, Jesus rises from the dead, defeating sin and death. Each Gospel presents unique details regarding the discovery of the empty tomb and the appearances of the resurrected Christ.

In Matthew, the focus is on the angel’s announcement and the Great Commission that follows. Mark presents a shorter, more ambiguous account, while Luke includes the Emmaus road story that highlights Jesus’ interaction with His followers. John emphasizes the personal encounter between the risen Jesus and Mary Magdalene. The resurrection narrative is a profound declaration of hope and the promise of eternal life for all who believe. It invites us to reflect on the transformative power of resurrection, both in the life of Jesus and in our own spiritual journeys.

Conclusion

The stories that appear in all four Gospels—Jesus’ baptism, the feeding of the 5,000, the Triumphal Entry, the crucifixion, and the resurrection—each contribute to a richer understanding of who Jesus is and what He accomplished during His time on Earth. These narratives invite believers to engage with the core tenets of faith, encouraging reflection on themes of humility, compassion, sacrifice, and hope.