The Synoptics.

      The Synoptics consist of three books which are Matthew, Mark and Luke. The similarities between these books consist of the same stories described with different details. In Matthew, Mark and Luke they all discuss Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. In my eyes, these three things are  the most important part of Synoptics. Reason being, is that it shows Jesus' life while he was here on earth. It shows us how he lived and was tempted, but yet never once did he fall into that temptation. They also show Jesus' earthly ministry all throughout whether he was actually spreading God's word, or even just living out his everyday life. It is extremely evident that Jesus is the Son of God and that He is the one that God sent to die for us on earth to fulfill a promise that no one ever could. Jesus' death is also very important because it demonstrates Him saving us from our sin. Without His death, no one would have hope in the future. Jesus was a living sacrifice who died and rose again to symbolize Gods love for us. This brings us to His resurrection. This is Jesus fulfilling God's promise and showing us that we do have hope in the future. This shows us how awesome and loving our God is. Some other similarities between the books consist of the Transfiguration, the Triumphant Entry, the call of His disciples, His miracles, and His use of miracles. The differences between the Synoptics were not as easy to find as the similarities however that does not mean there are not any. For example, Luke was a physician, therefore the details that were included more of a medical description. Whereas Matthew was a tax collecter therefore his description of events were less detailed. Another big difference between the Synoptics would be that Jesus' birth and His genealogy were only found in two of the three books. Matthew presented Jesus as king and included many of Jesus' teachings. Where Mark focused on trying to strengthen the believer during a difficult period of persecution. Luke wrote in such a way to help believers understand the Gospel of Christ. Matthew and Lukes setting were similar where as Marks setting was around the Sea of Galilee. The similarities of the Synoptics far out weigh the differences however some differences do exist.