Reading horizontally (comparing accounts, harmonizing) has the danger of losing the contextual message of the writer, but also offers benefits in comparing the gospels. The gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) were written time, place, and purpose specific but have a message for all time with proper application. It is important to recognize context and cultures while avoiding extremes that do not harmonize with today’s world. Application to our lives must be considered in the culture in which we live, without losing the foundation of teaching presented in a different time and climate, considering each writer is likely speaking to a specific group of first century Christians. Yes, we must read, study and make appropriate application of these gems of the Holy Spirit, to our lives today. … Wayne S.