Christology and the Synoptic Problem
An Argument for Markan Priority

The first thorough scholarly treatment of the christological argument for Markan priority.

Peter M. Head (Author)

9780521584883, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 3 July 1997

356 pages
21.6 x 14 x 2.4 cm, 0.6 kg

"It will be an important acquisition for libraries and interested specialists." Daniel A. Smith, Religious Studies Review

This book makes a major contribution to the ongoing debate about the synoptic problem, especially concerning the question of which gospel was written first. The scholarly consensus, developed over two hundred years of discussion, has favoured Markan priority and the dependence of both Matthew and Luke upon Mark. In an ongoing contemporary revival of the Griesbach hypothesis, some scholars have advocated the view that Mark used, conflated and abbreviated Matthew and Luke. The author explores the role played by arguments connected with christological development in support of both these views. Deploying a comparative redaction-critical approach to the problem, Dr Head argues that the critical basis of the standard christological argument for Markan priority is insecure and based on anachronistic scholarly concerns. Nevertheless, in a through-going comparative reappraisal of the christological outlooks of Matthew and Mark the author finds decisive support for the hypothesis of Markan priority, arguing that Matthew was a developer rather than a corrector of Mark.

Preface
Abbreviations
1. Introduction and a history of research
2. Method and approach
3. The rich young ruler (Matthew 19. 16-22
Mark 10. 17-22
Luke 18. 18-23)
4. Jesus's rejection at Nazareth (Matthew 13. 53-38
Mark 6. 1-6a)
5. Walking on water (Matthew 14. 22-33
Mark 6. 45-52)
6. Arguments concerning Jesus's emotions, 'inability' and questions
7. The worship of Jesus and the passion narratives
8. Christology and titles: Jesus as teacher and Lord
9. Jesus as messiah
10. Jesus as Son of God
11. Jesus as 'the Son of Man'
12. The messianic secret
13. Conclusion
Bibliography
Index.

Subject Areas: Biblical studies & exegesis [HRCG]