gospels

Everyday

1. (Bible) The Gospels are the first four books of the New Testament, by Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, which tell the life and teaching of Jesus. tree →
2. (church) The gospel is the Christian message, the «good news» about Jesus. tree →
3. Gospel (music) is a lively style of Christian singing from African American churches. tree →
4. (informal) «Gospel» or «gospel truth» means something completely true. tree →

In the lessons

In religious education pupils compare the four Gospels and read stories such as the parables and the Nativity. In music lessons, gospel choirs sing with clapping and strong voices. In everyday talk «take it as gospel» means believe it totally. Phrases: «the four Gospels», «the Gospel of Luke», «gospel choir», «the gospel truth», «take something as gospel».

Examples

• The four Gospels tell the story of Jesus. tree →
• The Gospel of Luke has the story of the Good Samaritan. tree →
• The priest read from one of the Gospels. tree →
• Our school has a gospel choir. tree →
• «Gospel» comes from an old word meaning «good news». tree →
• Don't take everything online as gospel. tree →
• Matthew, Mark, Luke and John are called the Gospels. tree →

Note

Usually capital G when it names the books: the Gospels; plural of «gospel». Uncountable when it means the music or the message. A «gospel truth» is a strong saying, not always literally true.