GLOBAL JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HUMAN RELATIONS

The Synoptic Problem refers to the scholarly challenge of explaining the literary relationship between the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, which share significant similarities in content, structure, and wording yet exhibit notable differences. This study seeks to explore the origin, development, and interdependence of these three Gospels. Through a comparative lens, this study examines the so-called “triple tradition” (material common to all three Gospels), the “double tradition” (material shared by Matthew and Luke but absent in Mark), and the distinct elements of each Gospel. The two-source hypothesis, which posits that Mark was the first Gospel written and was used as a source by both Matthew and Luke, along with a hypothetical second source (Q) for their shared material, is critically examined alongside alternative theories, such as the Farrer hypothesis and the Griesbach hypothesis. The study further investigates the theological, cultural, and stylistic motivations behind the authors’ choices, with a particular focus on how each Gospel reflects its audience’s needs and the theological emphasis of its author. Mark’s succinct, action-oriented narrative is compared with Matthew’s more structured and Jewish-centric account, while Luke’s focus on universality and inclusiveness offers a different perspective on the life and mission of Jesus. By evaluating the synoptic parallels and divergences, this comparative study aims to shed light on the complex interplay of oral traditions, editorial redactions, and theological intentions that shaped the Synoptic Gospels, contributing to the ongoing conversation on the historical reliability and theological significance of these foundational Christian texts. In conclusion, this paper highlights the significance of the Synoptic Problem not only for biblical scholarship but also for understanding early Christian communities’ diverse expressions of faith, as reflected in the unique portrait each Gospel paints of Jesus Christ. 

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