The Synoptic Gospels

What is the message of the Gospel of Matthew?

Jesus is Israel's long-awaited Messiah-King.

What key feature emphasizes the fulfillment of the Old Testament in Matthew?

Emphasis on Christ’s Fulfillment of the OT.

How is the Gospel of Matthew structured?

Topically arranged around five speeches/sermons.

What significant commission is found in the Gospel of Matthew?

The Great Commission.

What does Matthew 1:1 state about Jesus?

This is the genealogy of Jesus, the Messiah, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham.

What does Matthew 5:17 say about Jesus and the Law?

Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.

What declaration does Simon Peter make in Matthew 16:16?

You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.

What is the core message of the Gospel of Mark?

Jesus, the Son of God, became a servant and a ransom for sin.

What is a distinctive feature of the Gospel of Mark regarding the narrative?

Quick moving narrative.

What concept does Mark reference with the term 'messianic secret'?

Jesus's identity as the Messiah is often kept secret.

What does the term 'Markan Sandwiches' refer to?

A literary technique where a story is interrupted by another story.

What is noted as a feature of Mark's ending?

False Ending.

What does Mark 1:1 declare?

The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God.

What does Mark 10:45 convey about Jesus's purpose?

For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

What is the main message of the Gospel of Luke?

Jesus is the Savior of all people, especially the marginalized.

Which groups does Luke emphasize in his Gospel?

Outsiders, the Poor, Sinners, Samaritans, Gentiles, and Women.

What significant aspect does Luke highlight after Jesus's ascension?

Emphasis on Jesus’s Present Reign Following His Ascension.

What does Luke 1:3 state about the writing of his account?

I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus.

What does Luke 19:10 say about Jesus’s mission?

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.

What is the message of the Gospel of John?

Jesus is the Word made flesh to reveal the Father and provide eternal life to all who believe.

What aspect of Jesus does John emphasize through 'I AM' statements?

Jesus’s Divinity.

What central theme is highlighted in the Gospel of John?

Centrality of Belief/Eternal Life.

What literary themes are prominent in John’s Gospel?

Spiritual Dualism, Irony & Symbolism.

What promise is made regarding the Holy Spirit in John?

The Promised Holy Spirit.

What does John 1:14 convey about Jesus?

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.

What does John 3:16 express about God's love?

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

What is the significance of the genealogy in Matthew 1:1?

It establishes Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of David, and the Son of Abraham.

How does Matthew's Gospel portray Jesus in relation to Jewish law?

As a fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets.

What is the relationship between Jesus and the marginalized in Luke's Gospel?

He is depicted as the Savior of all people, especially those who are marginalized.

What narrative style is noted for the Gospel of Mark?

It is characterized by a quick-moving narrative.

What is the key theme of the Gospel of John that distinguishes it from the Synoptic Gospels?

Emphasis on the spiritual understanding and the divinity of Christ.

What critical verse in Luke emphasizes the orderly account of Jesus's life?

Since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning.

What does the term 'Synoptic' refer to in the context of the Gospels?

It refers to the three Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke) that can be viewed together for comparison.

What is one characteristic of John's Gospel that is different from the Synoptic Gospels?

It focuses more on the spiritual and theological implications of Jesus's ministry.

How is the relationship between Jesus and the Father depicted in John’s Gospel?

It emphasizes Jesus as the revelation of the Father.

What does the phrase 'The Great Commission' refer to in Matthew?

Jesus’s instruction to his disciples to spread the gospel and baptize all nations.

What aspect of Jesus's ministry is reflected in Luke's focus on outsiders?

His inclusivity and concern for the oppressed and marginalized.

What juxtaposition is highlighted in the 'Markan Sandwiches' technique?

The interruption of one narrative by another to highlight a theme or message.

What does the 'messianic secret' in Mark suggest?

The notion that Jesus's messianic identity is revealed subtly and only to certain individuals.

What role does the Holy Spirit play in John's Gospel?

Promised as a helper and guide for believers after Jesus's departure.

In what way does Luke's Gospel address social justice?

By emphasizing Jesus's care for the poor and marginalized.

What is one example of irony found in John's Gospel?

The irony of Jesus being rejected by those he came to save.

What are the 'I AM' statements in John used for?

To reveal Jesus’s divine nature and identity.

What is the significance of the term 'Son of Man' in Mark?

It emphasizes Jesus's humanity and servanthood.

How does Matthew structure his Gospel with respect to teachings?

By organizing it around five major speeches or sermons of Jesus.

What does Luke's narrative style suggest about his audience?

It indicates a thoughtful and educated audience who seeks a comprehensive understanding.

Which Gospel is known for its theological depth and symbolism?

The Gospel of John.

In Mark, what does the term 'quick-moving narrative' imply about the storytelling?

Events unfold rapidly, emphasizing urgency in Jesus's ministry.

What does Jesus's title as 'Messiah' say about his expected role in Jewish belief as portrayed in Matthew?

He is the anointed one expected to save the people.

How does John's portrayal of Jesus differ from the other Gospels?

He focuses more on the divine and spiritual aspects rather than just the historical.

What crucial aspect does Matthew highlight concerning the relationship between Jesus and Jewish tradition?

His role in fulfilling the prophecies and law of the Old Testament.

How does the Gospel of Luke illustrate Jesus's compassion?

Through parables and interactions with marginalized individuals.

What key theme is explored in John regarding belief?

Belief in Jesus as the pathway to eternal life.

How does Jesus's role as a servant manifest in Mark's Gospel?

Through his actions and teachings that emphasize serving others.

What profound truth is expressed in John 3:16 regarding salvation?

Faith in Jesus as the key to eternal life.

What did Jesus mean by saying he had come to 'fulfill' the law in Matthew?

To bring to completion and realization, rather than to abolish it.

How are women treated in the Gospel of Luke?

They are highlighted and given significant roles in Jesus's ministry.

What literary device does John frequently use to convey deeper meanings?

Irony and symbolism.

What does the Gospel of Mark denote about Jesus's mission to serve?

Service is central to the understanding of his role as the Messiah.

How do the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke differ from John's Gospel?

Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called the Synoptic Gospels, focusing on similar stories, while John has a distinct theological perspective.

In what way does John's opening verse about the Word become significant?

It states the incarnation of Jesus as God's revelation to humanity.

What significance does Jesus's genealogy hold in Matthew's narrative?

It establishes Jesus's royal lineage and fulfills Jewish expectations.

What promise does Jesus make about eternal life in John's Gospel?

That all who believe in him shall not perish.

How does Mark's use of a 'false ending' challenge readers?

It may leave them questioning and searching for deeper meaning beyond the narrative.

What does Luke's care for marginalized groups reveal about his theological focus?

A commitment to inclusiveness and social justice.

What central theological claim is made in John regarding Jesus's identity?

Jesus is the divine Word, co-existent with God.