A comparative reading of the Gospels
The Gospels of Luke, Matthew, Mark, and John are the fundamental texts that recount the life, deeds, death, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the foundations of the Catholic Christian faith. Each offers a particular vision, imbued with its own style, context, and audience. Reading them together allows us to grasp the richness and depth of this unique story from several complementary perspectives. We then read not just a narrative, but a polyphony, where each Gospel adds a color, a detail, a nuance to the same divine message.
This approach promotes meditation, understanding, and nurtures personal faith in a living dialogue with the Word.
The wealth of perspectives
- THE Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke) present similar narratives, highlighting the humanity of Jesus, his actions, and his messianic teachings.
- • The Gospel of John adopts a more theological and symbolic style, highlighting the divinity of Jesus through figurative and meditative language.
Part 1: Understanding the Four Gospels
The Synoptic Gospels: Matthew, Mark and Luke
These three texts share a similar structure, which gives them the name of "synoptic" gospels (which see themselves together).
- Marc It is the oldest; it recounts the actions of Jesus in a dynamic and direct manner, presenting him as the Suffering Servant who fulfills the divine will. It also highlights his miracles, signs of his authority and divine power.
- Matthew It emphasizes the link between Jesus and Jewish tradition, showing that he fulfills the prophecies of the Old Testament and that he is the awaited Messiah-King. It insists on his teachings, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount, a true spiritual exposition.
- Luke, a doctor and companion of Paul, offers a detailed and orderly narrative, emphasizing love of Jesus for the poor, the fishermen and the excluded, as well as the universality of his message which transcends Jewish borders. He also recounts original stories (birth of Jesus, parables as the Good Samaritan).
The Gospel According to John: A Distinct Perspective
John offers a more spiritual and theological reading, primarily presenting Jesus as the eternal Word, the Light come into the world. He highlights several original discourses and powerful symbols (e.g., "I am the bread of life," "The true vine"). This perspective invites a more meditative and profound faith, oriented toward the divinity of Christ and his intimate relationship with the Father.
Part 2: Detailed Joint Reading Plan
Plan objectives
- Explore the story of Jesus according to the four gospels in parallel.
- To highlight similarities and differences.
- To engage in a spiritual and meditative reading.
Plan table
| Stage | Theme/Event | Matthew | Marc | Luke | Jeans |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prologue & Preparations | Matthew 1-2 | – | Luke 1-2 | John 1:1-18 |
| 2 | Baptism & Temptations | Matthew 3-4 | Mc 1 | Luke 3-4 | – |
| 3 | Beginning of ministry in Galilee | Matthew 4-9 | Mark 1-6 | Luke 4-9 | John 2-4 |
| 4 | Main lessons | Matthew 5-7, 13 | Mc 4 | Luke 6-8, 10 | John 6 |
| 5 | Miracles & Healings | Matthew 8-9 | Mark 5-7 | Luke 8-9 | John 5:9 |
| 6 | calling of the disciples | Mt 10 | Mc 3 | Luke 5 | John 1 |
| 7 | Conflicts with authorities | Matthew 12-23 | Mark 11-12 | Luke 11-20 | John 7-10 |
| 8 | Last week in Jerusalem | Matthew 24-27 | Mark 13-15 | Luke 21-23 | John 11-19 |
| 9 | Passion & Death | Matthew 26-27 | Mark 14-15 | Luke 22-23 | John 18-19 |
| 10 | Resurrection & Apparitions | Mt 28 | Mark 16 | Luke 24 | John 20-21 |
Part 3: In-depth analysis of differences and complementarities
Common values in synoptic tables
- Similar narrative order.
- Jesus' words and actions were often similar, with expressions that overlapped.
- Jesus is presented as the Messiah who inaugurates the Kingdom of God.
Specifics according to each gospel
- Matthew emphasizes messianic legitimacy and authority in matters of new law.
- Marc gives a more oral, lively, often dramatic style, centered on the mystery of the suffering servant.
- Luke humanizes Christ and calls for mercy, emphasizing the excluded.
- Jeans presents a lofty Christology, Jesus fully divine and light of the world, with unique texts on faith and eternal life.
Why these differences?
Each evangelist wrote for a distinct audience and at a particular historical moment. These variations enrich our understanding and maintain a dynamic in the reading and meditation of the sacred text.
Part 4: Methodology for this reading
Practical advice
- Read each passage, taking the time to observe the detail.
- Compare similar passages in other gospels to see convergences and divergences.
- Ask yourself questions about what each evangelist wants to convey.
Lectio Divina, for prayerful reading
- Lectio (reading) : Read the passage carefully.
- Meditatio (meditation) : To deepen personal meaning.
- Oratio (prayer) : Respond with prayer.
- Contemplatio (contemplation) : To dwell in the loving presence of God.
Keeping a spiritual journal to track your progress
Note down impressions, doubts, joys and messages received.
Part 5: A Spiritual Journey Through the Gospels
Having a lively encounter with Jesus
The Gospels invite us to a personal relationship with Christ, perceiving his many facets.
Example: the parable of the good shepherd
- John 10 makes Jesus the shepherd who gives his life, an explicit and profound discourse.
- Luke offers a look at mercy by searching for the lost sheep, enriching meaning.
Cultivating humility and faith in the face of evangelical pluralism
Reading together stimulates a living faith, nourished and open to mysteries.
This detailed plan can be spread over several months to allow for gradual exploration with meditations, prayers, and possible group discussions. It offers a comprehensive, structured, and user-friendly introduction to the simultaneous reading of the four Gospels, ideal for enriching the Catholic Christian faith.
Enjoy this journey of discovery, filled with richness and emotion!
