The Synoptic Problem: Four Views

Leading Scholars Debate a Key New Testament TopicThe relationship between Matthew, Mark, and Luke is one of the most contested topics in Gospel studies. How do we account for the close similarities--and differences--in the Synoptic Gospels? In the last few decades, the standard answers to the typical questions regarding the Synoptic Problem have come under fire, while new approaches have surfaced. This up-to-date introduction articulates and debates the four major views. Following an overview of the issues, leading proponents of each view set forth their positions and respond to each of the other views. A concluding chapter summarizes the discussion and charts a direction for further study. How do we account for the similarities - and differences - in the Synoptic Gospels? In the last few decades, the standard answers to this question have come under fire while new approaches have surfaced. Articulating the four major views, Craig Evans, Mark Goodacre, David Barrett Peabody, and Rainer Riesner set forth their positions and respond to each of the other perspectives.