Gospel Parallels, NRSV Edition: A Comparison of the Synoptic Gospels

This is an important reference book for those who are interested in the differences and parallels one finds in the three synoptic Gospels. This book has a wealth of knowledge one may not have known without it!

It is a very useful resource for comparing and contrasting the synoptic gospels.

This is a tool, and as every tool it will be only as good as the user. the best part is the Index, which allows the reader to have the wider spectrum all at once.

One of the best recommended methods for studying the synoptic gospels is to underline a parallel version or harmony using different colors to show where the text is parallel word for word, partially, not at all, or where there is material that is unique just to that gospel. I used an earlier edition of "The Gospel Parallels" in a college class about 19 years ago. The fact that it is still a popular choice for serious study of the gospels is a testimony to its great usefulness and enduring scholarship. This latest edition includes references to other canonical writings that are not as accessible to all students, which makes it even more valuable. The footnotes have been enhanced, and all material that appears "out of order" is printed in italics which is yet another outstanding tool. When I began to rebuild my personal library after having sold or given away most of my books when I had moved, "The Gospel Parallels" was very high on my list of essential references. Highly recommended.

I never before saw the books this way. Where there is no parallel text the adjoining gospel is left blank. It makes word for word comparison easy. It is extremely easy to read and has references [including the variations of the text] to various other religious/biblical text containing the same or similar text. It also breaks it down into what particular manuscript contains what and allows you to look at the differences within the various early manuscript of the Bible. John has very few parallels in common and is referenced where needed. In fact the differences in John are even more striking after having read this book.