How to Read the Gospels

Often Christians, Catholics in particular, find themselves at a loss when faced with questions about the origins and meaning of the Gospels. In this handy, little book Father Harrington, a well-known expert on the bible, gives remarkably clear and complete responses to many of today's most commonly asked bible questions. Father Harrington developed his ideas for How to Read the Gospels while talking with his students at Weston and his parishioners at Saint Peters in Cambridge and Saint Agnes in Arlington. He understands that in today's society there is both a desire and a need to know what makes the Gospels so much more special than other books. In How to Read the Gospels Harrington explains among other things, who wrote the Gospels, who Jesus is, why there are four Gospels and why they are sometimes different from each other. In a straightforward and unassuming way Harrington, teacher that he is, offers a delightful instruction into the deeper realities of the Gospels in the light of faith. He confronts intriguing questions like: Are the Gospels merely history books? Did Jesus really say these things? In doing so he creates the perfect guide for reading the Gospels in the light of modern scholarship.

Harrington's introduction to the Gospels is excellent. Written on a popular level, with all technical terminology well explained, it should be a boon to all who want to learn about how to read the Gospels. His approach is sane, well established, and clearly presented, providing good suggestions about using Gospel passages in prayer, spiritual reading, and homilies. It can be used with profit by inquiring lay people, students, and pastors. It is highly recommended.

Joseph A. Fitzmyer, S.J.
Prof. Emeritus, Biblical Studies
The Catholic University of America


This is an excellent introduction. Fr. Harrington wears his vast learning lightly and writes with his characteristic clarity about the key issues in gospel interpretation today. Harrington's last chapter is especially rewarding as he guides the reader into the ways in which gospel study can be actualized in prayer, discussion groups, and liturgy. This is a best buy.

Fr. Robert J. Karris, OFM
Past President of Catholic Biblical Associates


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Daniel J. Harrington, SJ is a noted professor and lecturer of the New Testament at the Weston School of Theology in Cambridge Massachusetts. He has written fifteen books including Matthew (part of the Sacra Pagina series which he also edits) and Paul on the Mystery of Israel. His expert knowledge of the Gospels served him tremendously as general editor of New Testament Abstracts, and as a past president of the Catholic Biblical Association (CBA). Father Harrington holds a doctorate in biblical languages from Harvard University, and has both a bachelor and a master degree from Boston College.