MEN & WOMEN IGNATIAN – Although the Passion Narratives of all four Gospels are similar in many ways, there are significant differences among them. While the three Synoptic Gospels agree with each other (since Matthew and Luke are almost certainly based on Mark), John’s account is quite different. Though Matthew and Mark are nearly identical, Luke differs from them and is much closer to John’s account. What does each of the four Evangelists stress the most in the Passion narrative?

Mark emphasizes the suffering of Jesus, how he was tragically rejected, unfairly condemned, viciously beaten, horribly insulted, and cruelly mistreated by multiple groups.

Matthew speaks about the kingship of Jesus, how the de-facto ruling powers conspired to get rid of someone they saw as a political threat.

Luke insists on the innocence of Jesus.

John stresses the exaltation of Jesus, how he remains in control, completing the will of the Father, and being glorified as he is lifted up. What does Jesus’ death mean for us? Where do we see ourselves along way of the Cross today?

Facilitated by Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB