The Bible Story II:

 MATTHEW, MARK, LUKE, JOHN

St. Matthew

   In a humble stable a little baby was born to a poor couple named Mary and Joseph who were both descendants of David. The baby was named Jesus which means "God saves." Angels foretold that he would be born the Son of God. Angels announced that he was born a Savior, Christ the Lord.

St. Mark

   When Jesus was about thirty years old, he was baptized by John and began his public ministry. He called disciples and began to teach them. He chose twelve disciples to be apostles. For three years, they traveled around the Promised Land. Jesus healed the sick, raised the dead and cast out demons. He walked on water and even the wind and the waves obeyed him. He taught people about true and genuine righteousness, worship, prayer and service. His life is an example of humility, purity, friendliness, mercy and grace. Jesus said, "The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many." He said, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me."

St. Luke

   Many people followed Jesus and listened to every word. But the religious leaders hated him because he did not follow their man-made traditions. They arrested Jesus but the only charge against him was that he claimed to be the Son of God. The religious leaders turned the hearts of the people against Jesus. He was nailed to a cross until he died and he was buried.

St. John

   Early on Sunday morning, Jesus arose from the dead just as he had promised his disciples. For forty days, he appeared to them at different times and places. He told them to go into all of the world and spread the good news that he had conquered sin and death. Then Jesus ascended into Heaven. (He is now with God the Father and intercedes for mankind. His death was the perfect sacrifice for every sin, from Adam and Eve to the end of time. His shed blood established a new covenant of salvation by grace, not works. His death and resurrection opened up the door to Heaven and eternal life for everyone who trusts in him.)