The Synoptic Gospels Overview

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the key details, authors, characteristics, unique parables, and portrayals of Jesus in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.

Gospel of Matthew - Author

Matthew (Levi), a former tax collector and apostle.

Gospel of Matthew - Genealogy

Traces Jesus' lineage through Abraham and David in Chapter 1.

Gospel of Matthew - Resurrection Narrative

Mary Magdalene and the other Mary discover the empty tomb guarded by an angel.

Gospel of Luke - Author

Luke, a Gentile physician and traveling companion of Paul.

Theophilus

The target audience of the Gospel of Luke.

Gospel of Luke - Genealogy

Traces Jesus' lineage back through David, Abraham, and all the way to Adam.

Gospel of Luke - Unique Parables

Includes the Good Samaritan, Prodigal Son, Rich Man and Lazarus, and the Pharisee and the Tax Collector.

Gospel of Luke - Passion Narrative Trial

Features a trial before both Pilate and Herod Antipas.

Gospel of Mark - Author

Traditionally associated with John Mark, a companion of the apostle Peter.

Euthys

Greek word meaning 'immediately/at once', used 40+ times in Mark to create urgency.

Sandwich Technique (Intercalation)

A literary technique in Mark where one story starts, is interrupted by another story, and then returns to the first story, using the middle story to help explain the outer story.

Mark 16:9–20

A section generally considered a later addition by early scribes to give a more traditional account of Jesus' resurrection appearances.

Matthew's Portrayal of Jesus

Presents Jesus as the Messianic King and New Moses, the lawful heir to David's throne and authoritative teacher of the law.

Mark's Portrayal of Jesus

Presents Jesus as the Suffering Servant, highlighting actions, human emotions, power over evil, and giving His life as a ransom.

Luke's Portrayal of Jesus

Presents Jesus as the Universal Savior, focusing on compassion for outcasts, the poor, women, tax collectors, and Gentiles.

Synoptic Gospels

The term given to Matthew, Mark, and Luke, derived from the Greek word 'synoptic,' which means 'seen together.'