synoptic gospels
The Synoptic Gospels: The Baptism of Jesus Should one fully read the opening three gospels of the new testament, he or she can find many similar patterns of literature and themes. This is what someone such as Merriam Webster would define as the "Synoptic Gospels". So, what are and how can we explain the differences and similarities among Synoptic authors Matthew, Mark, and Luke? ... The phenomenon and mystery of these similar but unique Synoptic Gospels has for centuries challenged some of the best minds of academia and the church, stirring up much scholarly controversy; and baffling students alike. To completely understand the similarities and differences between these Synoptic Gospels we must first be acquainted with the authors of them; we ought to discern the background of their life, academic qualifications, experiences, literature styles, and occupations. ... THEORIES How does one explain the high degree of similarity in the structure and wording of the gospels? In the "oral theory," similarities among the Synoptic Gospels are attributed to the fact that all three Gospels draw heavily on the durable oral traditions originating from the early Christian community in Jerusalem. ... Matthew wrote an expanded version and Luke used both earlier Gospels. ... The existence of Q explains the Matthewean, Lukean agreements and the exact order and wording found in the Gospels. ... Many copies of these Gospels were in circulation and not as much as Lukes Gospel and hardly any of Marks. Early Statements about the Gospels Some ancient authors have commented on the composition of the Gospels. ... Augustine and Griesbach both agree that the order of the Gospels are: Matthew, Mark and then Luke. ... Ultimately, their methods differ, we see a very similar use of the baptism story among the authors of the Gospels.