SYNOPTICS

The term "synoptic" derives from the Greek word sunoptikos, which means "seeing the whole together." The word is used to describe the first three Gospel narratives -- Matthew, Mark, and Luke -- because these records are viewed as portraying the life of Jesus from a rather common vantagepoint. (John's Gospel account is more topically structured and universally directed.) The "synoptic" theme also deals with the relationship of the documents to one another and their different points of emphasis. For example, Matthew writes principally for the Jews. He frequently quotes the O.T. Scriptures, and he emphasizes the kingly authority of Christ. Mark writes for the Romans. He stresses the deeds of Christ and focuses upon the Lord as the ideal servant who carries out the Father's will with urgency. Luke directs his message to the Greeks and his emphasis is upon the manhood of Jesus; he also heralds the international thrust of the gospel. While there are comparative differences in the synoptic accounts (each containing some material peculiar to it), they do not contradict one another. The records supplement each other, and the differences reveal a lack of collusion. The early church considered all three narratives to be inspired of God and authoritative as historical records.