Comments on Why does the Bible include three Synoptic Gospels?
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Why does the Bible include three Synoptic Gospels?
The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called the Synoptic Gospels because they obviously draw upon common source material. John, in contrast, is less similar to any of them than they are to each other. Mark is widely considered the oldest of the three, but it isn't necessarily the ultimate source.
Why did the 4th-century Council of Rome, which compiled the Biblical Canon, include three Synoptic Gospels rather than choosing the one they considered most authoritative? Having all three creates the problem of inconsistencies among them, ranging from the wording of quotes to entire events.
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Having all three creates the problem of inconsistencies among them, ranging from the wording of quotes to entire events.
While this may be seen as a problem, it is also beneficial from an investigative point of view, as it shows independent narrations and likely independent witnesses, which supports the authenticity of the main events included in the multiple gospel accounts. That is, they corroborate each other in most things; but if there had been a coordinated attempt to fabricate a story, a bit more attention to those inconsistencies could be expected. Taken this way, the inconsistencies support the veracity of these accounts.
You may be interested in further reading about the synoptic problem and corroboration of historical sources.
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