The Synoptic Problem in the New Testament Gospels

The synoptic problem is the basis of historical critical scholarship of the gospels. As a result, the solution to the synoptic problem will influence "one's redaction criticism, and form criticism of the gospels as well as affect the quest for the historical Jesus, early church history, and even the text of the gospels"(Carlson). And the synoptic problem is an examination into the existence and nature of the literary interrelationship among the first three "synoptic" gospels, which are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and in the contrast with John. …