Come Let us Worship, Day 6, December 6

In Classical music, the most important combination of four instruments in performances that are regal and yet intimate is the string quartet.   String quartets most often consist of two violins, a viola, and a cello.  This expression of music comes from the 4 main registers of the human voice: soprano, alto, tenor and bass.  Individually quartet members most often have a limited range that fits well within their register and individually the sing what might be called counterpoint melodies.  Yet when combined in 4-part harmony they express a beauty and agreement that is indescribably appealing.

We know the Christmas story is one amazing story. But we also know that the Gospels in the New Testament deal with the story of the birth of Jesus in four very different – without contradicting each other. Let’s look at each of the parts:

Matthew.

Notice how Matthew starts: “The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.” (Matthew 1:1, ESV).  Matthew shows us the Savior as the fulfillment of the prophecies and hopes of the Hebrew Scriptures; and he shows us Jesus as the King of the Jews who has been given all authority in Heaven and Earth. He is Emmanuel, God with us.

Mark

Now Mark’s Gospel is different.  Mark starts with the last of the Old Testament prophets, John the Baptist.  John’s message was a message of repentance in preparation for the coming Savior.

“Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”” (Mark 1:14–15, ESV). Mark reminds us to truly understand Jesus we need to repent.

Luke

Luke’s wonderful story shows Jesus pouring Himself into humanity, born among the poor and rejected, bringing a message of hope to those who will hear.  In theology this is called the Doctrine of Kenosis.  It is represented clearly for us in Philippians2:5–8.

John

For John, the beginning for Jesus was no beginning.  Jesus started in eternity – in heaven, where there is no beginning.  Jesus, the Word was in the beginning and was God. All that is created was created through Him.

So the four Gospels are like an amazing Gospel Quartet. They sing different harmonies yet blend to a beautiful rendition of the Lord Jesus Christ. 

      ·         Matthew sings bass and we hear of Jesus as the King of the Jews worthy of obedience and worship;

      ·         Luke sings the melody and gives us a very humane Savior that brings us Good News to the poor and rejected;  

      ·         Mark sings baritone.  He reveals to us that greatness is servant.  Jesus is the prime example of service, even to the death on a Cross for the sake of others; and

      ·         John sings tenor, exalting Jesus as God, who comes as the Word become flesh and this shines in the darkness to us salvation.

Father, your Word is presented with such harmony and unity. Lord may we hear the music of the Gospel this Christmas season; and may these Voices come alive in our mediation.  May you be glorified!