“Dan Scholz offers a thoroughly readable and informative introduction to the Gospels and Acts. In this first of a two-part New Testament introduction, Scholz provides a multiangled look at these books through historical, literary, and theological lenses. Each chapter on the Gospels and Acts begins with considerations about the book’s historical setting (author, dating, sources, and audience) and moves to significant exploration of how the story is told in that particular narrative, providing insight into literary devices and themes. Additional discussions are included on the historical backdrop of these books, historical Jesus study, and noncanonical early Christian gospels.”

“Dr. Scholz’’s book fills a serious lacuna in the field, namely, a solid, up-to-date examination of the Gospels in their historical and literary context that, at the same time, is accessible to undergraduates of every age and creed. Reflecting the mainstream of modern biblical studies, this new edition is invaluable for any teacher struggling to give students a richer, more profound understanding of the multiple portraits of Jesus, within and beyond the canon, and their relevance for contemporary faith. This text, paired with Dr. Scholz’’s volume on Paul, serves as the perfect guide for an introductory course on the New Testament.”