What are the first three books of the New Testament?

The first three books of the New Testament are the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Together, they are often called the "Synoptic Gospels". The term "synoptic" comes from a Greek word meaning "to see together," which is fitting because these three books present very similar accounts of Jesus Christ's life and ministry, often including the same stories in a similar sequence. This has led many scholars to believe that the authors of Matthew and Luke used Mark's Gospel, which is considered the earliest, as a primary source for their own writing.

While they share a common perspective, each of the Synoptic Gospels was written for a distinct audience and emphasizes different aspects of Jesus's identity. The Gospel of Matthew, for instance, was likely written for a Jewish audience and frequently references the Old Testament to show how Jesus fulfilled the prophecies of the promised Messiah. In contrast, the Gospel of Mark is thought to have been written for a Roman or non-Jewish audience, as it explains Jewish customs and uses Latin terms. It is a concise and action-oriented account that portrays Jesus as a suffering servant and the Son of God.

The Gospel of Luke, written by a physician, is addressed to "Theophilus" and was intended for a broader Gentile or Greek readership. This account presents Jesus as the savior for all people, with a particular focus on his compassion for the poor and marginalized. Luke's Gospel is known for its detailed historical context and literary quality. Together, these three Gospels provide a multifaceted and foundational understanding of Jesus's life and teachings at the beginning of the New Testament.