Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which gospel has the most extensive narrative in the New Testament?
Which gospel has the most extensive narrative in the New Testament?
Which gospel is the only one that includes an account of the Ascension?
Which gospel is the only one that includes an account of the Ascension?
Which gospel is described as having a more theological and philosophical approach?
Which gospel is described as having a more theological and philosophical approach?
What is the primary focus of John's gospel, compared to the synoptic gospels?
What is the primary focus of John's gospel, compared to the synoptic gospels?
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What do the synoptic gospels share in common, according to the passage?
What do the synoptic gospels share in common, according to the passage?
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Which term best describes the reason why Matthew, Mark, and Luke are referred to as synoptic gospels?
Which term best describes the reason why Matthew, Mark, and Luke are referred to as synoptic gospels?
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What is one common characteristic of Matthew, Mark, and Luke as outlined in the text?
What is one common characteristic of Matthew, Mark, and Luke as outlined in the text?
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Which gospel is often considered the shortest and most concise among the synoptic gospels?
Which gospel is often considered the shortest and most concise among the synoptic gospels?
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What distinguishes Mark's gospel from the other synoptic gospels as mentioned in the text?
What distinguishes Mark's gospel from the other synoptic gospels as mentioned in the text?
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When was it believed that Matthew, one of the synoptic gospels, was written?
When was it believed that Matthew, one of the synoptic gospels, was written?
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Who is traditionally attributed as the author of Luke among the synoptic gospels?
Who is traditionally attributed as the author of Luke among the synoptic gospels?
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Study Notes
Synoptic Gospels
The term synoptic gospels refers to the first three books of the New Testament: Matthew, Mark, and Luke. These gospels share similarities in their accounts of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, which is why they are referred to as "synoptic," meaning "seen together." While each gospel has its unique elements, these similarities demonstrate the interdependence between them. Here is a closer look at each of the synoptic gospels:
Matthew
Matthew is traditionally attributed to the apostle Matthias, who was chosen by lot to replace Judas Iscariot after his betrayal of Christ. Matthias wrote the gospel with a Jewish audience in mind. It begins with Jesus' genealogy, emphasizing His divine lineage from Abraham through King David. Many scholars believe that Matthew was written before AD 80, making it one of the earliest surviving records of Jesus' teachings.
Mark
Mark is traditionally ascribed to John Mark, a relative of Barnabas and an associate of Paul in his missionary journeys. It is believed that Mark was written around AD 60-70. Mark focuses on action rather than doctrine, presenting Jesus as a miracle worker. This gospel is often considered the shortest and most concise of the four gospels, likely due to its intended purpose of being used as a teaching tool for oral proclamations.
Luke
Luke is traditionally attributed to Luke the Evangelist, a physician and companion of Paul. It was written around AD 80-90. Luke's gospel has the most extensive narrative in the New Testament and includes detailed accounts of Jesus' birth, His teachings, and His death and resurrection. It is also the only gospel that includes an account of the Ascension, in which Jesus is taken up into heaven.
Comparison with John
John is the fourth gospel, and unlike the synoptic gospels, it is not concerned with Jesus' life and teachings in detail. Instead, it focuses on His divinity and His relationship with God the Father. John's gospel has a more theological and philosophical approach, emphasizing Jesus' divine nature and His role as the Word made flesh.
In conclusion, the synoptic gospels provide a comprehensive account of Jesus' life, teachings, and mission. They are unique in their perspectives and emphases, yet they share a common basis in the historical Jesus and His message of love, forgiveness, and salvation.
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Description
Learn about the synoptic gospels which include Matthew, Mark, and Luke in the New Testament. Explore the unique characteristics and similarities of these three books that provide a detailed account of Jesus' life, teachings, and mission.
