The Spirituality of the Gospels

Probably no other works of ancient literature have had a greater influence on religious life and thought than the Four Gospels. Certainly no other works have been the subject of such intense study by those determined to learn more about the Gospels' central, often enigmatic, figure. And yet, despite the bewildering variety of scholarly approaches, few have sought to interpret the Gospels in terms of the distinctive spirituality that each contains and seeks to evoke in its readers. That is the aim of this important new book — to help today's readers explore what each Gospel has to offer when viewed by its own right as a classic of Western spirituality. Written in a clear, non-technical style, the fresh perspectives this work presents will open new vistas on the familiar stories about the life, teaching, and ultimate significance of Jesus. Stephen C. Barton is a native of Sydney, Australia, and is currently Reader in the Department of Theology and Religion at Durham University, Durham, England. He is the author of 'Life Together: Family, Sexuality and Community in the New Testament and Today' (2001) and 'Discipleship and Family Ties in Mark and Matthew '(2003) and editor of 'The Cambridge Companion to the Gospels' (2006).