The Genesis of the New Testament- Unveiling the First Book of the Holy Scripture

What was the first book of the New Testament? This question often piques the curiosity of both believers and scholars alike. The New Testament, a collection of sacred texts revered by Christians worldwide, contains 27 books. However, determining the first book is not as straightforward as it may seem.

The New Testament begins with the Gospels, which recount the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The first Gospel traditionally attributed to the New Testament is “Matthew,” written by the apostle Matthew.

Matthew’s Gospel is believed to have been written around the year 80 AD, making it the first book of the New Testament. The author, traditionally identified as the apostle Matthew, was a tax collector before becoming a follower of Jesus. His Gospel is thought to have been written for a Jewish audience, emphasizing Jesus as the Messiah prophesied in the Hebrew Scriptures.

Matthew’s Gospel opens with a genealogy tracing Jesus’ lineage back to Abraham, establishing his Jewish heritage. The book then recounts the birth of Jesus, his baptism by John the Baptist, and his public ministry. Matthew emphasizes Jesus’ teachings, miracles, and parables, and his interactions with the disciples, opponents, and the crowds.

After Matthew, the second book of the New Testament is “Mark,” believed to have been written by John Mark, a companion of Peter. Mark’s Gospel is shorter than Matthew’s and focuses more on the actions and miracles of Jesus. It is thought to have been written around the year 65 AD, making it the second book of the New Testament.

Following Mark is “Luke,” written by the physician Luke, a companion of the Apostle Paul. Luke’s Gospel is thought to have been written around the year 80 AD, making it the third book of the New Testament. Luke’s Gospel is known for its detailed account of Jesus’ life and teachings, as well as its emphasis on the universal salvation offered through Jesus Christ.

Lastly, “John” is the fourth and final Gospel in the New Testament. Written by the Apostle John, it is believed to have been composed around the year 90 AD, making it the last book of the New Testament. John’s Gospel is distinct from the other three in its focus on the divine nature of Jesus and his role as the Word of God.

In conclusion, the first book of the New Testament is “Matthew,” written by the apostle Matthew around the year 80 AD. This Gospel sets the stage for the rest of the New Testament, providing a foundational understanding of Jesus Christ’s life and mission.