What is the Prologue in the Gospels?

• A. A concluding summary of the narrative.
• B. A genealogical list only.
• C. A mid-story interruption with a parable.
• D. An introductory passage that sets the theme and framework for what follows.

Answer: (D)

An introductory passage that frames the whole narrative—setting the purpose, tone, and key themes for what follows. In the Gospels, the opening material isn’t just a list of facts; it establishes why the story is being told and what shape the reader should expect. For Luke, the opening explains his goal of providing a reliable, orderly account so readers may be certain of the things they’ve been taught. For John, the opening proclaims the divine identity of Jesus and the coming of life through the Word, laying a theological groundwork for the whole Gospel. Each Gospel begins by orienting the reader to the story and its significance, rather than simply presenting a closing summary, a genealogical list by itself, or a mid-story interruption with a parable.