The Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels stands as the premier reference work for understanding the person and work of Jesus Christ as presented in the four canonical Gospels. This completely reimagined second edition represents a quantum leap forward from the groundbreaking 1992 volume, incorporating three decades of explosive growth in Gospel scholarship that has fundamentally reshaped our understanding of Jesus' identity, ministry, and the cultural world he inhabited. Under the expert editorial guidance of Joel B. Green, Jeannine K. Brown, and Nicholas Perrin—all distinguished Gospel scholars—this dictionary offers an indispensable resource for pastors, students, and serious Bible readers seeking to navigate the rich landscape of contemporary Jesus studies.

The dictionary's methodology reflects the latest developments in Gospel studies while maintaining evangelical theological commitments. With over 90% completely new content and the remainder thoroughly revised, the volume features comprehensive articles on each individual Gospel, major events in Jesus' life, key theological themes, historical background topics, and contemporary interpretive approaches. The editors have skillfully balanced giving each Gospel space to speak on its own terms while drawing out shared insights and scholarly debates that illuminate the entire Gospel tradition. Each entry combines cutting-edge academic research with clear, accessible writing that bridges scholarly depth and practical application, making complex historical and theological concepts understandable for ministry contexts.

What sets this dictionary apart is its exceptional design for contemporary ministry preparation and biblical teaching. The extensive current bibliographies accompanying each article provide reliable pathways for deeper research, while the systematic organization allows users to quickly access information for sermon preparation, Bible study leadership, or academic research. Whether exploring the historical Jesus, understanding Gospel genre and composition, or grappling with specific interpretive challenges, users will find this resource invaluable for engaging with the latest thinking in Gospel scholarship. For those committed to faithful Gospel preaching and teaching that reflects the best of contemporary evangelical scholarship, this dictionary represents an essential investment that will serve as a trusted guide for decades of fruitful Gospel ministry.