What it means to read the Gospels "vertically."

Sample Solution

   

Reading the Gospels vertically means reading each Gospel as its own independent narrative of the life and work of Jesus Christ. This approach focuses on the unique perspective and theological emphasis of each author.

Reading the Gospels Horizontally

Reading the Gospels horizontally means reading them synoptically, comparing and contrasting the accounts of Jesus' life and work that are found in all four Gospels. This approach focuses on the common ground between the Gospels and seeks to construct a more comprehensive understanding of Jesus' life and ministry.

Full Answer Section

    The Danger of Harmonizing the Gospels Harmonizing the Gospels is an attempt to create a single, unified account of Jesus' life and work by merging the different accounts found in the four Gospels. This approach is often motivated by a desire to resolve any apparent contradictions between the Gospels. However, harmonizing the Gospels can be dangerous because it can lead to a distortion of the individual perspectives and theological emphases of the Gospel authors. Example One example of the danger of harmonizing the Gospels is the account of Jesus' resurrection. In Matthew's Gospel, the guards at Jesus' tomb are described as being overcome with fear and fainting when they see an angel roll back the stone and Jesus emerge. In Mark's Gospel, the guard is described as being so terrified that he flees. However, in Luke's Gospel, the guards are described as being simply amazed at what they see. If we try to harmonize these accounts, we might be tempted to conclude that the guards were all terrified. However, this would be a distortion of the individual perspectives of the Gospel authors. Matthew's account emphasizes the power and majesty of Jesus' resurrection, while Luke's account emphasizes the wonder and amazement that the resurrection evokes. By harmonizing the accounts, we would lose the richness and diversity of the Gospel perspectives. Conclusion Reading the Gospels both vertically and horizontally is important for a well-rounded understanding of the life and work of Jesus Christ. Reading vertically helps us to appreciate the unique perspectives and theological emphases of the Gospel authors. Reading horizontally helps us to see the common ground between the Gospels and to construct a more comprehensive understanding of Jesus' life and ministry. It is important to avoid the temptation to harmonize the Gospels, as this can lead to a distortion of the Gospel perspectives.