Synoptic Gospels

Definition: The Synoptic Gospels are the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. These Gospels are called synoptic (from the Greek syn- together and opsis appearance) because they can be compared column by column with each other. The three Synoptic Gospels have many parables and accounts in common, as well as a general consensus on the order of events, suggesting a common source for all three.