The Gospels: A Historical and Cultural Journey - Hardcover

by Jerry Pattengale (Author)

The Perfect Gift for Pastor and Loved Ones

At the heart of the Bible--the world's most-read book--lie The Gospels, arguably the most well-loved portion. More passages are quoted each year from the Gospels than any other part of Scripture. The words of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John have shaped art, music, and literature across centuries and civilizations. But do we fully grasp the historical and cultural context behind them?

This beautifully designed gift book explores the historical and cultural background of thirty timeless moments from the Gospels, which have inspired some of the greatest masterpieces the world has ever known. Adorned with vivid imagery and specially selected verses, each page is elegantly presented, reflecting the majesty of Scripture.

Perfect for personal reflection, inspiration, or as a thoughtful gift, this book invites readers to immerse themselves in the stories of Jesus's life--from the announcement of His birth to His triumphant entry in Jerusalem to the commissioning of His disciples--stories that continue to inspire and transform the world.

Author Biography

Jerry Pattengale, PhD

Jerry Pattengale, PhD, is a founding scholar at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC where he still serves as Senior Advisor, and a distinguished professor and administrator at Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU). His influence also extends beyond academia. As a Senior Fellow with the Sagamore Institute, CSR associate publisher, JEC board member at Yale Divinity School, and a member of the National Press Club's Membership Committee, he continues to shape thought leadership on history, faith, and culture at the state and global levels.

Dr. Pattengale has authored dozens of books and hundreds of articles and columns, including in prominent publications like The Chicago Tribune, Washington Post, and The Wall Street Journal. His recent works, The New Book of Christian Martyrs (Tyndale House, 2023); The Anxious Middle (Baylor University Press, 2023); The World's Greatest Book, 2nd ed. (Tyndale House, 2023); and Habits of Hope (IVP, 2024) have received critical acclaim. He is known for his award-winning "Buck Creek" newsprint series for its engaging and insightful storytelling. His Inexplicable TV series, hosted by Dennis Haysbert, also won three Telly Awards.

Born and raised in Buck Creek, Indiana, Dr. Pattengale's journey from poverty and homelessness at the end of high school to becoming a globally recognized scholar is an inspiration. He even addressed the United Nations, attended meetings at the White House, and was interim president of Religion News Service. With the support of church members and alumni of Marion College (now IWU), he pursued higher education, serving as student body president and recognized as the outstanding graduate. Dr. Pattengale went on to earn Master's degrees at Wheaton (IL) and Miami University (Ohio). He then earned his PhD at Miami University under the eminent historian, Edwin M. Yamauchi, with perfect marks and established himself as an active voice in his field.