The Synoptic “Problem”

Instead of seeing the synoptic gospels as a “problem,” the common word approach uses the differences in the parallel texts to extract what makes them the same, similar to the idea of the Triple Tradition.

The four gospels are differing accounts of the same events decades after the events occurred. The multiple viewpounts offer different perspectives. We have a wonderful opportunity to explore four seperate viewpoints on the same events. Although each viewpoint has its perspective, other studies explore the differences, whereas the common word approach focuses on the similarities. The four authors agreed on important parts of the message. We can assume that areas of agreement are central to the message God is sending us through Jesus.

All texts are taken equally, without consideration of any historical procedence. Many biblical scholars consider that the texts are interdependent, with Mark most likely being the first. However, the common word approach does not rely on any hypothesis of sources.