What Are The Similarities And The Differences Of The Four Gospels

The four Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, are the first books of the New Testament and provide accounts of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. While they share many similarities, each Gospel also has its own unique perspective and themes.

Similarities

• All four Gospels cover Jesus' birth, ministry, death, and resurrection.
• They are all written in Greek and were composed in the decades following Jesus' death.
• The Gospels rely heavily on parables, teachings, miracles, and other events from Jesus' life as a means of conveying his message.

Differences

Matthew: Written primarily for a Jewish audience, Matthew emphasizes Jesus' role as the fulfillment of Jewish prophecy. There is a focus on the law and Jesus as the new Moses. Matthew also emphasizes the themes of repentance, forgiveness, and the eschatological judgment.

Mark: The shortest of the four Gospels, Mark's writing is believed to be the earliest of the Gospels, and was written for a Roman audience. Emphasis lays on the deeds of Jesus rather than his words or lineage.

Luke: Written primarily for a Gentile audience, Luke emphasizes the universality of Jesus' message and his compassion for the poor, outcasts and marginalized. Luke also pays attention to some of the female followers of Jesus and the role of women in Jesus' ministry.

John: Written at a later date and for a more mature and spiritual audience, John emphasizes Jesus' spiritual nature. He portrays Jesus as the Word of God, the light of the world, and emphasizes Jesus' divinity. John also includes exclusive teachings and signs not found in the other Gospels.