Synoptic Gospels

The Synoptic Gospels are where most theological students first meet Jesus in sustained detail. Matthew, Mark, and Luke tell one story with shared scenes, shared sayings, and shared structure. Then the differences appear, and many students are left asking: Why do these Gospels sound alike in places, and why do they diverge in others?

Synoptic Gospels: For Theological Students is a study guide written to help you read the first three Gospels side by side with clarity. It shows you how to follow the narrative flow, compare parallel passages without confusion, and read each Gospel on its own terms. It also introduces the Synoptic Problem in a student-friendly way, so you can understand the main scholarly proposals without losing your faith or your focus.

In this book, you will learn:

• What “synoptic” means and how to use side-by-side reading for serious study
• How Matthew, Mark, and Luke each present Jesus with a distinct aim and audience
• How to trace major themes, key turning points, and repeated patterns across the three Gospels
• How to compare parallel passages with a simple method that keeps your observations organized
• What the Synoptic Problem is, why it matters, and the leading explanations students meet in class
• How to read miracles, parables, teachings, and the passion narratives with stronger interpretation habits
• How to move from observation to meaning, and from meaning to teaching and preaching

This book is for Bible colleges, seminaries, church training programs, and serious readers who want a clean path into the Synoptic Gospels. If you want to study Jesus in Matthew, Mark, and Luke with order, confidence, and better interpretation skills, start here.