Lecture 5: The Synoptic Problem I: Introduction and Data
What is the Synoptic Problem?
The Synoptic Problem involves the study of the similarities and differences of the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) to explain their literary relationship.
These Gospels are called "Synoptics" because they can be viewed together in parallel columns in a Synopsis.
There is a mid-term task to become familiar with passages in Synopsis, e.g., the call of Matthew/Levi in Matt. 9.9, Mark 2.14, Luke 5.27.
The Synoptic Gospels often share a similar order of events and wording, unlike the Gospel of John.
Example of parallel order: Peter's Confession (Matt. 16.13-20, Mark 8.27-30, Luke 9.18-21) and other events like the Prediction of the Passion, On Discipleship, and the Transfiguration.
There is consensus on a literary relationship among the Synoptics; the similarities indicate copying among the evangelists.
Different Kinds of Material
Triple Tradition:
Common to Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
Examples include the Parable of the Sower and the Feeding of the Five Thousand.
Mark's Gospel is largely triple tradition, featuring more narrative.
Double Tradition:
Common to Matthew and Luke but not Mark.
Features more sayings than narrative.
Includes the Lord's Prayer and Beatitudes.
Special Matthew:
Unique to Matthew.
Includes stories like the Ten Virgins and the Sheep and Goats.
Special Luke:
Unique to Luke.
Includes parables like the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son.
Blurring of the Categories
Some material blurs these distinctions, such as the Temptations of Jesus which appear in all three Gospels but with variations.
There are cases where Matthew and Mark, or Luke and Mark, share material but maintain Marcan order.
Mark as Middle Term
Mark contains little special material and acts as a common denominator in triple tradition material.
Two major explanations for Mark's role:
Priority of Mark: Matthew and Luke used Mark.
Posteriority of Mark: Mark used Matthew and Luke.
The majority support the Priority of Mark, forming the basis of the Two-Source Theory and the Farrer Theory.
The Griesbach Theory (Two-Gospel Theory) suggests Mark used Matthew and Luke, a minority view.
The preference for Marcan Priority will be elaborated in further discussions.