The Synoptic Gospels are the accounts of Jesus’ life written by Matthew, Mark, and Luke but not the gospel of John. The word ‘synoptic’ comes from the Greek sunoptikos which means ‘to view together’. These three gospel accounts share much of the same content and wording, although careful study will show that even in accounts that appear similar, there are subtle stylistic differences (for example compare Matthew 8:2-3, Mark 1:40-42, Luke 5:12-13). John’s Gospel stands out as a markedly different account, both in its construction and writing style.
