What are the Synoptic Gospels?

• A. John, Acts, and Romans
• B. The Gospels of Thomas, Peter, and Judas
• C. Matthew, Mark, and Luke, which share much of the same material, structure, and perspective
• D. Paul's epistles

Answer: (C)

The grouping called the Synoptic Gospels consists of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The term “synoptic” comes from Greek roots meaning “seen together,” reflecting how these three tell many of the same stories in a very similar order and with similar wording and emphasis. They share much of the same material—parables, miracles, and the sequence of Jesus’s ministry, passion, and resurrection—so they can be read side by side to compare parallel accounts.

Scholars often note that Matthew and Luke appear to draw on Mark for much of their content, plus another shared collection of sayings (a hypothetical source often called Q) and material unique to each gospel. This interconnected relationship explains the strong overlaps in content and structure across the three.

In contrast, John the gospel is not part of this group; it presents a different chronology, different events, and a distinct theological emphasis. And the other listed writings—Acts, Romans, or non-canonical gospels like those attributed to Thomas, Peter, or Judas—are not part of the canonical Synoptic set.

So, the Synoptic Gospels are Matthew, Mark, and Luke, distinguished by their shared material, order, and viewpoint.