Similarities Between Matthew And Luke Compared To The New Testament Book Mark

The very differences and similarities between Matthew and Luke compared to the New Testament book Mark have led many scholars to understand the role of redaction criticism. Redaction criticism remains a way for many to look at these Synoptic Gospels (Mark, Luke & Matthew) to understand why the author or authors of these books may have changed, modified, added, or left certain passages the way they were. More importantly, I will be focusing on the introduction of each Gospel, as well as the middle passages that discuss the audience John speaks exclusively to emphasize their contrast. By analyzing the books in this way, scholars have the ability to comprehend the context that each author(s) has used when speaking to an audience, furthering their
In verse 2, John speaks of the Kingdom of Heaven being near. Matthew clearly is shown to have included this for various reasons. One reason may be the influence of the Essenes. The connection between Matthew, John the Baptist and the Essenes is the very theological approach they share. John the Baptist may have possibly been a member of the Essenes sect in early Judea. But it also may be that they are just similar in a messianic theology. However, this theological approach is Matthew's alone when looking at these verses. The remainder of the verses is nearly the same as Mark until it is read more closely in verses 11-12 where John is seen to have additions in his teaching. As a reminder, the verses of Mark chapter 1, 7-8 end with "I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit", but in Matthew, John is shown to preach a message that is slightly different in context to Mark's
The focus of this paper has been more so on the introduction of the Synoptic Gospels account of John. For Luke, unlike Matthew and Mark, the author has decided to inform his or her audience the various rulers of regions in Israel. He begins by stating, "In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler of Galilee..." and so forth in Luke chapter 3, verse 1. The reference first to Rome through Emperor Tiberius and then lastly the mentioning of the high priest is distinguishable. As the reader, one may question why Rome is present in the first place in these verses. Understanding the history of Jerusalem and the surrounding regions, we can see how powerful Rome was. Luke essentially tells his audience the chain of command from Rome and eventually