Word: Synoptic Gospels
Definition: The term "Synoptic Gospels" refers to the first three books of the New Testament in the Bible: Matthew, Mark, and Luke. These gospels tell the story of Jesus Christ’s life and teachings from similar perspectives, making them easier to compare and study together.
Usage Instructions: - You can use "Synoptic Gospels" when discussing the Bible, Christianity, or religious studies. - It is usually capitalized because it refers to a specific term in Christian theology.
Example: - "In my Bible study class, we learned about the Synoptic Gospels and how they each portray the life of Jesus."
Advanced Usage: - Scholars often analyze the Synoptic Gospels to understand the similarities and differences in the narratives of Jesus's life. - The term "Synoptic" comes from a Greek word meaning "seen together,” which emphasizes how these gospels can be read in parallel.
Word Variants: - "Synoptic" (adjective): relating to the Synoptic Gospels. - Example: "The synoptic accounts of the feeding of the 5,000 show both similarities and unique details."
Different Meanings: - Outside of religious context, “synoptic” can refer to any summary or overview of information. For example, a "synoptic report" in business gives a brief summary of findings.
Synonyms: - There aren't direct synonyms for "Synoptic Gospels," but you might use "the first three gospels" in a more general sense.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs related to "Synoptic Gospels," but you might encounter phrases like "the Big Picture," which refers to understanding something in a broad context, similar to how one might understand the Synoptic Gospels together.
Conclusion: The Synoptic Gospels are an important part of Christian teachings and provide a way to study the life of Jesus Christ through similar stories told in the books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.