IN LIGHT OF THE CROSS AND RESURRECTION
An Explanation of Mark, Matthew and Luke

This series is an intense review of what you might already know about the synoptic Gospels and an exciting challenge to your mind and spirit that will certainly deepen your understanding and appreciation of Mark, Matthew, and Luke. The complex interrelationship between the synoptic Gospel is clearly explained. The major intellectual arguments about the Gospel are dealt with and the riveting questions that the inspired writers address are presented to the listener. She defends the traditional notion that Mark was the first written Gospel and presents an image of the crucified Messiah that is riveting. The Gospel asks the question “Can flawed disciples be examples of faith?” She presents exactly how Matthew’s Gospel expands and modifies Mark by emphasizing the role of the crowds, the righteousness of Jesus, and the conflicts amongst the disciples and with other Jews. Perkins then demonstrates how Luke draws characters, emphasizes the role of the poor, challenges the wealthy and pictures salvation.
Whether a person is a student of scripture, a teacher, a preacher or a hearer of the Word, his or her own understanding of the scriptures will be deepened and with that deepening will come a greater love for the living Christ. This series of talks can form the basis for any parish adult education program on the synoptic Gospels and prove to be a vehicle for preparing people to better live the Word of God in their daily lives.