Meet Jesus in the Gospels

The four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John — tell the story of Jesus through his words, actions, relationships, death and resurrection.

You do not need to read them all at once. You can begin with a few short passages and notice what each one reveals about the kind of person Jesus is.

When two people first approached him, Jesus gave them a simple invitation:

“Come, and you will see.”

John 1:39

Jesus invites people to follow him

Read Mark 1:14–20. Jesus meets ordinary people during their daily work and invites them into a new way of life. Notice that they are not chosen because they already understand everything.

Jesus welcomes those who feel unworthy

Read Mark 2:13–17. Jesus shares a meal with people whom others avoided or condemned. Consider what this shows about who is welcome to approach him.

Jesus shows us the mercy of God

Read Luke 15:11–32. In the story often called the parable of the prodigal son, Jesus describes a father who welcomes his lost child home. Notice the father’s patience, compassion and joy.

Jesus serves others

Read John 13:1–17. Jesus washes his disciples’ feet, taking the place of a servant. Ask what this reveals about the way he understands leadership, love and greatness.

Jesus responds to doubt

Read John 20:24–29. Thomas finds the resurrection difficult to believe. Jesus does not dismiss him, but meets him in his uncertainty and allows him to see.

Jesus reveals himself to those who seek him

As you read these passages, you might ask: What does Jesus care about? How does he treat people? What surprises or challenges me? What might he be inviting me to understand?

You do not need to reach a conclusion after every passage. Read slowly, notice what stands out and allow yourself time to become familiar with Jesus.

Getting to know someone happens gradually. You might begin with one passage today and return to another when you feel ready.