Handbook to the Gospels is a much-needed survey of information about the four Gospels, more detailed than a general introduction, wider-ranging and more broadly usable than a verse-by-verse commentary. Well-organized and easy to use, the Handbook is a resource for both students and teachers, as well as an introduction for everyone who wants to study the Gospels for his or her own spiritual life. It is a comprehensive biblical survey for the layman.

The Handbook provides background information necessary for understanding the Gospel texts - including political movements, religious and political leaders, historical data, and patterns of daily life. It also surveys the literary aspects of the Gospels, such as authorship, composition, and literary traits.