How are Discourses in the Gospels defined?

• A. Miracles performed by Jesus.
• B. Biographies of Jesus' life.
• C. Extended speeches or teachings of Jesus compiled by the Evangelists.
• D. Short parables told by the Apostles.

Answer: (C)

Discourses in the Gospels are long, formal teachings spoken by Jesus that the Evangelists gather into distinct blocks within the narrative. They’re designed to convey instruction about the kingdom of God, ethical living, and Jesus’ identity, rather than merely recounting events or telling short tales. The Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5–7 is the clearest example, presenting a sustained set of teachings rather than a single miracle or a brief story. Other important instances include longer teaching sections in Mark, Luke, and John, such as the Olivet Discourse about the end times or John’s extended dialogues like the Bread of Life discourse.

These discourses stand apart from miracles, which show Jesus’ power; from biographies, which trace events of his life without focusing on prolonged instruction; and from short parables, which are brief illustrative stories rather than extended sermons. The Evangelists present these extended teachings as central moments of Jesus’ message, sometimes shaping or arranging the material to emphasize core truths for listeners and readers. That’s why the best description is extended speeches or teachings of Jesus compiled by the Evangelists.