Why Four Gospels?: The Historical Origins of the Gospels

This succinct but comprehensive treatment of the Synoptic Problem provides a broadly understandable look at the Markan priority debate regarding the historical origin of the gospel writings and offers in its place the "fourfold gospel hypothesis." By taking into account data within the gospels themselves and evidence from the early church fathers, Dr. Black affirms the traditional view that Matthew was the first gospel written, and suggests that Luke was written as its Gentile counterpart. Peter, whose recollections form the basis of Mark, provided the apostolic stamp of approval for Luke's gospel by drawing from both prior sources and bridging the gap between the two books.