Matthew and Luke reinterpret Mark’s Gospel, altering narratives to fit their theological views, leading to significant differences in their accounts.

– Dr James Tabor, Professor of Ancient Judaism and Early Christianity at the University of North Carolina.

Key Insights

• 📖 Many assume the four Gospels are harmonious in early Christianity.
  
• ✍️ Mark wrote first, with Matthew and Luke heavily editing his text. Matthew alters Mark’s stories to fit his theological agenda.
  
• 📉 Luke simplifies narratives, removing elements of failure among disciples.
  
• 🧩 Rewriting vs. Harmonizing: The Gospels should be studied as independent texts that engage in intentional rewriting rather than simply harmonizable accounts of the same events.
  
• 📚 Critical study of Gospels can deepen understanding of Christian origins and the development of early theology.

Dr. James D. Tabor is Professor and Chair of the Department of Religious Studies at the University of North Carolina. He is a historian of ancient Mediterranean religions with a focus on Christian Origins, and ancient Judaism. He earned his BA in Greek and Religion from Abilene Christian University, his MA in Christian Origins from Pepperdine University, and a second MA and Ph.D. from the University of Chicago.