The Gospels: Synoptic and John

These flashcards cover the key aspects of the four Gospels, their authors, audiences, themes, and the concepts surrounding the Synoptic Gospels.

The Gospel according to Saint Mark

Written by John Mark, this gospel emphasizes Jesus' humanity and is known as the 'Distilled Gospel' and 'Gospel of Action.'

Portrait of Jesus in Mark

Seen as the Suffering Servant, highlighting His humanity and suffering.

The Gospel according to Saint Matthew

Authored by Matthew the Apostle, it emphasizes Jesus as the Promised Messiah, with a genealogy tracing back to Abraham.

Key Themes in Matthew

The Kingdom of God is for all and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.

The Gospel according to Saint Luke

Written by Luke, it stresses Jesus' humanity and is known as 'Mary's Gospel'.

Portrait of Jesus in Luke

Described as the Compassionate One, focusing on His compassion and strength.

The Gospel according to Saint John

Authored by John the Apostle, this gospel emphasizes Jesus' divinity and portrays Him as God Incarnate.

Key Themes in John

Faith in Jesus leads to eternal life, and Jesus is the Son of God.

Synoptic Gospels

Matthew, Mark, and Luke, called 'synoptic' because they share similarities in content and narrative structure.

The 'Synoptic Problem'

The challenge of explaining the similarities and differences among the synoptic gospels.

Q-Source Theory

The theory proposing that Matthew and Luke used a common source (Q) for material not found in Mark.

4-Source Theory

Implies that multiple sources were used to compile the synoptic gospels.