What are the gospel writers trying to accomplish?

The writers, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John are writing an account of the life of Jesus.  Matthew and Luke begin with the story of his birth.  Mark and John begin with the start of his ministry.  But, what is their goal in writing?  What do they want to accomplish?  I will suggest a couple things.

First, they want to convince you that the story of Jesus’ life really happened.  They want the reader to believe all the incredible stories of miraculous and wonderful things.  They are also writing to convince readers that Jesus really was that good, compassionate, selfless and sacrificial.  Put all of that together and the next step is to convince readers that Jesus is the promised Messiah, the prophesied King and the very Son of God.  That is why the books are so full of carefully placed pieces of evidence.

Secondly, these writers want you to realize that you should follow him.  The stories convince us to follow Jesus because of how much he cares for each and every individual, no matter who or what they are.  Follow Jesus because he can make you right with God, forgive your sins and wipe your conscience clean.  Finally, follow Jesus because he has the power to deliver on his promises – in particular, the promise of eternal life.

It is no wonder God provides for us four gospel accounts of the life of Christ.