1
Q
The Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures, produced due to Hellenization.
A
Septuagint
2
Q
What sources did NT authors draw from?
A
Ancient Jewish literature, Greco-Roman literature, and oral culture.
3
Q
What is genre, and why does it matter in the Bible?
A
Genre = form, style, subject matter; it shapes audience expectations. The Bible includes multiple genres, not just one.
4
Q
What genre are the Gospels most likely?
A
Ancient biography.
5
Q
What are key features of ancient biographies?
A
Encourage imitation, emphasize birth & death, consult eyewitnesses, care about historicity, and organize thematically (not strictly chronological).
6
Q
What is the standard structure of a letter in the NT?
A
Prescript (sender, addressee, greeting), Proem (blessing/thanksgiving), Body, Closing.
7
Q
What does “Synoptic” mean, and which Gospels are included?
A
“With one eye” → Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
8
Q
How much of Mark is in Matthew? Luke?
A
90% in Matthew, 55% in Luke.
9
Q
Matthew & Luke used Mark + Q (sayings source) + their own material. What is this called?
A
Two-Source Hypothesis
10
Q
what is the hypothesis that says No Q. Matthew used Mark, and Luke used both Matthew and Mark.
A
Farrer Hypothesis
11
Q
Which Gospel is considered earliest, and why?
A
Mark, because of its rougher style and harder theology.
12
Q
Traditional author of Mark?
A
John Mark (companion of Peter), though anonymous in text.
13
Q
Approximate date of Mark?
A
Around 65-70 CE.
14
Q
Audience of Mark?
A
Christians under persecution (Rome or Syria).
15
Q
Purpose of Mark?
A
Announce God’s Kingdom through crucifixion & resurrection.
16
Q
Why didn’t the disciples understand the miracle of the loaves (Mark 6:51)?
A
Their hearts were hardened; they didn’t grasp the deeper meaning of Jesus’ miracles.
17
Q
What is a Markan Sandwich?
A
A storytelling technique where two stories are interwoven. Example: Bleeding woman + Jairus’ daughter → both saved by faith.
18
Q
Why could the disciples not cast out the spirit in Mark 9:26–29?
A
Jesus said, “This kind can only come out by prayer.”
19
Q
Who is the Gospel traditionally attributed to?
A
Matthew, the disciple.
20
Q
Date of Matthew?
A
70-90 CE.
21
Q
Audience of Matthew?
A
Jewish Christians in Antioch.
22
Q
Purpose of Matthew?
A
To show Jesus as Messiah fulfilling the Law and embodying God for the church.
23
Q
What OT figure does Matthew compare Jesus to?
A
Moses (pervasive Mosaic typology).
24
Q
Matthew 1:1 genealogy significance?
A
Shows Jesus as “Son of David, Son of Abraham” → connects him to Jewish hope.
25
Infancy narrative highlights?
Herod’s massacre, family’s flight to Egypt, return to Galilee.
26
What is Matthew 5:1–2 describing?
The Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus teaches the disciples.
27
What does Matthew 10:34–36 mean when Jesus says He brings a sword, not peace?
Following Him causes division, even within families.
28
What does Matthew 5:16 remind us?
Let your light shine so others may see your good deeds and glorify God.
29
What does “Synoptic” mean, and which Gospels are Synoptic?
“With one eye” → Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
30
How are the Synoptics different from John?
John presents a very different portrait of Jesus.
31
What is the Synoptic Problem?
The question of why Matthew, Mark, and Luke are so similar in wording and content.
32
How much of Mark is in Matthew and Luke?
Matthew = 90%, Luke = 55%.
33
Which Gospel do scholars think was written first?
Mark.
34
What other source did Matthew & Luke likely use?
Q (Quelle, “source”).
35
What is Q?
A hypothetical sayings collection of Jesus (225+ verses, 49 units, 7 sections).
36
Why do scholars think Q existed?
Shared sayings in Matthew & Luke not in Mark, evidence from Jewish tradition, Luke 1:1–4, and examples like the Gospel of Thomas.
37
What alternative theories exist?
Luke used Matthew (no Q), or Matthew came first.
38
Why are those alternatives(different hypothesis other than Q) weaker?
Doesn’t explain why Mark would omit major teachings or why Luke would leave out Matthew’s birth stories.
39
How does Q present Jesus?
As a wise teacher (sage), greater than Moses or Solomon, and God’s wisdom in person.
40
What literary type are the Gospels (except Luke–Acts)?
Ancient biographies.
41
What type of work is Luke–Acts?
An ancient historical monograph.
42
How do ancient biographies differ from modern biographies?
They are tendentious, lack psychological analysis, focus on words/deeds, broad chronology, little description, no sources, emphasize character and death.
43
Why do ancient biographies often emphasize a person’s death?
Death was seen as the ultimate revelation of true character and legacy.
44
What does the word Gospel (euangelion) mean?
“Good news.” Originally referred to oral proclamation, not a written text.
45
What was the earliest form of “Word of God” in the NT?
Oral preaching, not written documents.
46
Which NT writings were composed first?
Paul’s letters (AD 49–mid 60s).
47
Why are the Gospels placed first in the NT?
They narrate Christianity’s origin story, not because they were written first.
48
Who was Mark traditionally identified as?
John Mark, companion of Barnabas, Paul, later Peter.
49
According to Papias, what was Mark’s role in writing the Gospel?
Interpreter and companion of Peter; recorded Peter’s memories accurately but not in strict order.
50
What clue in Mark suggests it was written near AD 70?
Mark 13:14 refers to the temple’s destruction.
51
What are the 3 major sections of Mark’s Gospel structure?
(1) Who is Jesus? (ch. 1–8) (2) His Mission & predictions of suffering (ch. 8–10) (3) Passion & Resurrection (ch. 11–16).
52
What climactic confession is found in Mark 8:27–30?
Peter declares, “You are the Christ.”
53
What key verse in Mark summarizes Jesus’ mission?
Mark 10:45 → “The Son of Man came to give his life as a ransom for many.”
54
Who first mentioned Matthew as the author of Jesus’ sayings?
Papias (early 2nd century).
55
Why is Matthew considered the most Jewish Gospel?
Heavy OT quotations, emphasis on prophecy fulfillment, focus on law and Jewish imagery.
56
How is Matthew structured?
Around 5 major discourses, echoing the 5 books of Moses.
57
What are Matthew’s 5 discourses?
(1) Sermon on the Mount (5–7) (2) Mission (10) (3) Kingdom Parables (13) (4) Church Life & Forgiveness (18) (5) Eschatological Discourse (24–25).
58
What theme about Jesus is emphasized by this 5-discourse structure?
Jesus as the New Moses.
59
What unique term does Matthew use instead of “Kingdom of God”?
“Kingdom of Heaven.”
60
Which Gospel is the only one to use the word ekklesia (“church”)?
Matthew.
61
What role does Peter uniquely have in Matthew?
Given the “keys of the kingdom” (16:18–19), symbolizing leadership in the church.
62
What unique Passion detail appears in Matthew’s Gospel?
Pilate washes his hands; the crowd says, “His blood be on us and our children.”
63
What unique Resurrection detail appears in Matthew?
Guards at the tomb & the Great Commission (28:18–20).
64
How does Matthew portray Jesus in relation to Jewish tradition?
As Messiah, Son of God, fulfillment of prophecy, New Moses, and authoritative teacher.
65
Who is traditionally believed to be the author of Matthew’s Gospel?
Matthew the disciple, though actual authorship is anonymous.
66
What was Matthew’s main audience?
jewish Christians, likely in Palestine or Antioch.
67
How does Matthew begin his Gospel?
With the genealogy of Jesus, tracing Him back to Abraham and David (Matt. 1:1–17).
68
What event causes Joseph to take Mary and Jesus to Egypt?
King Herod’s massacre of the infants in Bethlehem (Matt. 2:13–18).
69
What teaching of Jesus is found in Matthew 5–7?
he Sermon on the Mount, including the Beatitudes.
70
What prayer does Jesus teach His disciples in Matthew 6?
The Lord’s Prayer (“Our Father in heaven…”).
71
In Matthew 16, what does Peter confess about Jesus?
“You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (Matt. 16:16).
72
What happens at the Transfiguration (Matt. 17)?
Jesus’ appearance changes; Moses and Elijah appear with Him; God’s voice declares Jesus His beloved Son.
73
In Matthew 18, what does Jesus teach about forgiveness?
To forgive “seventy-seven times” (or “seventy times seven”) — limitless forgiveness.
74
What does Jesus ride into Jerusalem on in Matthew 21?
A donkey, fulfilling prophecy.
75
At Jesus’ death in Matthew 27, what miraculous events occur?
Earthquake, temple curtain torn, tombs open, saints raised to life.
76
What command does the risen Jesus give His disciples in Matthew 28?
The Great Commission: to make disciples of all nations, baptize them, and teach them.
77
How does Mark begin his Gospel?
With John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus (Mark 1:1–8).
78
What is Jesus’ first miracle in Mark?
Driving out an unclean spirit in a synagogue (Mark 1:21–28).
79
In Mark 2, why do some criticize Jesus for healing the paralyzed man?
Because He forgave the man’s sins, claiming authority that belonged to God.
80
What does Jesus calm in Mark 4:35–41?
A storm on the Sea of Galilee.
81
Who immediately recognizes Jesus in Mark 5, unlike the disciples?
Demons (the Gerasene demoniac).
82
What miracle occurs within the “Markan sandwich” of Jairus’ daughter?
A bleeding woman is healed by touching Jesus’ cloak.
83
What key question does Jesus ask His disciples in Mark 8:29?
“Who do you say I am?”
84
How does Peter respond in Mark 8:29 to Jesus asking his disciples who do you say I am?
“You are the Messiah.”
85
What happens at the Transfiguration in Mark 9?
Jesus’ glory is revealed; Moses and Elijah appear; God’s voice affirms Him.
86
In Mark 15, who recognizes Jesus as God’s Son at the crucifixion?
A Roman centurion.
87
How does Mark’s Gospel originally end (shorter ending)?
With the women fleeing the empty tomb, afraid and silent (Mark 16:8).
88
Around what year was Jesus executed, and what charge led to his death?
Around 30 CE; he was executed for claiming to be “King of the Jews,” a political threat to Rome.
89
Who were executed alongside Jesus?
Two brigands (rebels/insurrectionists).
90
Which Gospel is the longest by word count?
Luke.
91
What did Luke write in addition to his Gospel?
A sequel, Acts of the Apostles.
92
What do scholars call the two volumes together?
Luke–Acts
93
Do most scholars see Luke and Acts as one work or two?
One two-volume project.
94
Where does Acts directly link back to Luke?
acts 1: “In my first volume, Theophilus…”
95
How much of the New Testament is made up by Luke–Acts?
About one-third.
96
How does Luke’s Gospel read compared to ancient biography?
More like ancient history.
97
What genre is Acts considered?
A historical monograph.
98
What evidence shows Luke and Acts have the same author?
Linguistic, grammatical, thematic, and theological similarities.
99
Who argued Luke–Acts forms a single continuous story?
R. Tannehill.
100
Who highlighted the patterns, echoes, and interlocking themes? in acts and luke
P. Borgman.
101
About how many words could one papyrus roll hold?
19–20k words.
102
How long is Luke’s Gospel and Acts in words and roll length?
Luke: 19,404 words (35-foot roll); Acts: 18,374 words (32-foot roll).
103
Why couldn’t Luke–Acts be written on one roll?
Each was too long; together, too big for one roll.
104
What symmetry exists between Luke and Acts?
Both cover ~30 years and both end with trials (Jesus’ and Paul’s).
105
Which promise in Luke 24 is fulfilled in Acts 2?
Promise of the Spirit’s power.
106
Which Gentile theme is foreshadowed in Luke but fulfilled in Acts?
Light to the Gentiles (Luke 2:32; 3:6).
107
Where is Peter’s prophecy (Luke 22:33) fulfilled?
In Acts (prison and trials).
108
Which group has a positive role in both Luke and Acts?
Samaritans.
109
How does Luke treat John the Baptist compared to Acts?
Luke clarifies he is not the Messiah (Luke 3:15 → Acts 13:25, 19:5).
110
According to Luke 1:1–4, what was Luke’s method?
Acting like a Greek historian: consulted eyewitnesses and wrote an orderly account.
111
What was Luke’s goal?
Chronicle Jesus’ life and the rise of “the Way” (early Christianity).
112
Who was Theophilus?
A high-status Gentile Christian, likely Luke’s patron.
113
What does “Most noble Theophilus” suggest?
He was a patron of Luke, not a symbolic name for “lovers of God.”
114
What role did Theophilus play?
Sponsored Luke, funded copying/distribution, and circulated the writings.
115
What broader concern does Luke address for Theophilus’ audience?
Christianity’s relationship to Rome and citizenship.
116
Which canon calls Luke “the physician and companion of Paul”?
Muratorian Canon (c. 170–80 CE).
117
Which Church Father affirmed Luke’s authorship?
Irenaeus.
118
What is Luke called in Colossians 4:14?
“The beloved physician.”
119
What are the “we passages” in Acts?
Sections where the author writes as a companion of Paul (Acts 16, 20, 21, 27–28).
120
When was Luke–Acts likely written?
In the 80-90 CE (after Mark, Q, Matthew).
121
What are Jesus’ last words in Matthew?
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (27:46).
122
What are Jesus’ last words in Mark?
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (15:34).
123
What are Jesus’ last words in Luke?
“Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” (23:46).
124
What are Jesus’ last words in John?
“It is finished.” (19:30).
125
What is the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20)?
Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything He commanded.
126
What does Immanuel mean in Matthew 1:23
“God with us.”
127
: How does Matthew emphasize Gentile inclusion?
Gentiles are included in the genealogy (Tamar, Rahab, Ruth), the Magi visit Jesus, and the Great Commission commands outreach to all nations.
128
How does Matthew emphasize Gentile inclusion?
Gentiles are included in the genealogy (Tamar, Rahab, Ruth), the Magi visit Jesus, and the Great Commission commands outreach to all nations.
129
What is a key theme of the Gospel of Matthew?
Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and Prophets; presenting Jesus as the new Moses and teacher.
130
Where does Jesus deliver the Sermon on the Mount?
On a mountainside, sitting as a teacher, addressing His disciples and the crowds (5:1–2).
131
Beatitude: Who are “poor in spirit”?
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (5:3).
132
: Beatitude: Who are “the meek”?
“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth” (5:5).
133
Beatitude: Who are “persecuted because of righteousness”?
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (5:10).
134
What does Jesus say about the Law in Matthew 5:17–18?
He did not come to abolish the Law or Prophets but to fulfill them. Not the smallest letter will disappear until all is accomplished.
135
How does Jesus intensify the command against murder?
Anger and insults are also subject to judgment (5:21–22).
136
How does Jesus intensify the command against adultery?
Lustful thoughts are equivalent to adultery in the heart (5:27–28).
137
What does Jesus teach about divorce?
Anyone who divorces, except for sexual immorality, causes adultery (5:31–32).
138
What does Jesus teach about vows?
Do not swear oaths at all; simply let your “Yes” be “Yes” and “No,” “No” (5:33–37).
139
What does Jesus teach about retaliation?
Do not resist an evil person; turn the other cheek, go the extra mile (5:38–42).
140
What does Jesus teach about love of neighbor?
Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you (5:43–44).
141
What are the 3 main hypotheses for the Synoptic Problem?
1. Markan Priority + Q Source (Mark + Q used by Matthew and Luke).
2. Luke used Matthew directly (no Q).
3. Matthew came first (Mark and Luke copied Matthew).
142
General themes of the Synoptic Gospels?
Matthew = Jewish Messiah, fulfillment of prophecy.
Mark = Suffering Messiah, discipleship through suffering.
Luke = Universal Savior, compassion, inclusion, Gentiles, poor.
143
What passage in Luke introduces Jesus’ mission and angers his audience?
Luke 4:16–30 → Jesus reads Isaiah 61 (“Spirit of the Lord is upon me”), alludes to Jubilee year, emphasizes inclusion of Gentiles.
144
Why were people angered in Luke 4:16–30?
Because Jesus applied God’s blessings to Gentiles as well as Jews.
145
In Luke 16:19–31, who are the two main figures in the parable?
Lazarus (poor man at the gate, in paradise after death) and the Rich Man (lived in luxury, tormented after death).
146
Why is Lazarus unique among Jesus’ parables?
He is the only named character in any parable.
147
What happens to the “gate” in the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus?
It becomes an impassable chasm after death, symbolizing eternal separation.
148
What unique words does Jesus say from the cross in Luke?
* “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (23:34).
* “Truly I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise” (23:43).
* “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit” (23:46).
149
How does Luke emphasize Jesus’ innocence?
A centurion says: “Certainly this man was innocent” (23:47).
150
What is the Road to Emmaus story (Luke 24)?
Two disciples walk with Jesus unknowingly. He explains scripture about himself. They recognize him only in the breaking of bread.
151
What do the Emmaus disciples say that shows their expectation?
“We had hoped he was the one to redeem Israel.”
152
How does Luke describe the Ascension?
Jesus explains the scriptures, ascends to heaven, takes his throne as Messiah, and reigns over the cosmos.
153
After the Ascension, where do the disciples go?
Back to the Temple to worship, linking Jesus to Jewish tradition.
154
Who is traditionally thought to be the author of the Gospel of John?
John, the son of Zebedee.
155
Who does internal evidence in the Gospel point to as the “Beloved Disciple”?
Lazarus, whom Jesus loved and raised from the dead.
156
Why did some early Christians think the Beloved Disciple would not die again?
Because Jesus had already raised Lazarus once and hinted “if it is my will that he remain until I come.”
157
Who likely finalized and assembled the Gospel after the Beloved Disciple’s death?
John the Elder (possibly the same as John of Patmos), from the Johannine community in Ephesus.
⸻
158
How does John’s Gospel differ from Matthew, Mark, and Luke?
It focuses on Judean and Samaritan ministry, not Galilee; has no exorcisms; few parables; and includes unique stories (like Lazarus).
159
Which special Zebedee stories are missing from John’s Gospel?
The call of the Zebedees, the Transfiguration, Jairus’s daughter, and the request for seats of honor.
160
Why might John’s Gospel emphasize Jesus as resurrection and life?
Because the Beloved Disciple (possibly Lazarus) experienced being raised from the dead himself.
⸻
161
What is the overall structure of John’s Gospel?
Prologue, Book of Signs, Book of Glory, Epilogue.
162
How many “I Am” sayings are in John, and why is that number important?
Seven — symbolizing perfection in Judaism.
163
Name two “I Am” sayings.
“I am the bread of life” (John 6:35) and “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25).
164
How does John present Jesus in relation to Jewish traditions?
Jesus fulfills them—he is the Passover Lamb, the true Temple, the manna from heaven, and the new wine.
165
Who is the Gospel of John traditionally attributed to?
John the Apostle. (But authorship is anonymous; some suggest John the Elder, the Johannine community, or Lazarus.)
166
When was the Gospel of John likely written?
60-90 CE
167
Who was John’s audience?
Jewish Christians facing synagogue exclusion and non-Christians curious about the faith.
168
What is the stated purpose of John’s Gospel?
“That you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God.” (John 20:31)
169
What did Clement of Alexandria call John’s Gospel?
The “Spiritual Gospel.”
170
How does John’s prologue (1:1–18) begin?
With echoes of Genesis 1:1.
171
What are the 4 attributes associated with the Word in John’s prologue?
Word, God, Life, Light.
172
How is John’s view of Jesus described compared to the Synoptics?
: Exalted, with a “High Christology” — overt focus on divinity.
173
What key theological concept is introduced in John’s prologue?
The Incarnation (“The Word became flesh”).
174
How is John’s Gospel structured?
Two “books”: Book of Signs (1–12) and Book of Glory (13–21).
175
How do John’s miracles differ from the Synoptics?
Called “signs” instead of “deeds of power,” highlighting meaning and revelation.
176
What does John the Baptist deny being in John 1:19–34?
Elijah.
177
How does John the Baptist describe Jesus?
“The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.”
178
vHow do the first disciples recognize Jesus in John 1:35–51?
As Rabbi, Son of God, and King of Israel.
179
What name does Simon receive at his calling?
Cephas (Peter).
180
What is the first “sign” in John’s Gospel?
Turning water into wine at Cana (John 2:1–12).
181
What does Jesus’ miracle at Cana symbolize?
He fulfills and reorients Jewish purification practices — He becomes the new means of purification.
⸻
182
What temple event occurs in John 2:13–22?
The temple cleansing (but placed at the start of Jesus’ ministry).
183
Why might John place the temple cleansing differently than the Synoptics?
To make a theological point, or perhaps Jesus cleansed the temple twice.
184
Who is traditionally believed to have written the Acts of the Apostles?
It’s anonymous, but traditionally attributed to Luke, a companion of Paul.
185
Who was the audience of Acts?
Theophilus, who likely helped publish the work.
186
What is the main purpose of the Book of Acts?
To narrate the birth and expansion of the church by the power of the Holy Spirit.
187
Who are considered the main human characters in Acts?
Peter dominates the first half, and Paul the second half.
188
What is the true main character or focus of Acts according to most scholars?
The Holy Spirit, which empowers people throughout the book.
189
Why do people think Luke wrote Acts?
Because of the “we passages” that indicate the author was present during some of Paul’s missionary journeys.
190
In Acts 1:8, what key message outlines the structure of the whole book?
The gospel will spread from Jerusalem to Judea, to Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
191
How is Jesus’ ascension described in Acts 1?
As His heavenly enthronement, showing His authority and glory.
192
How was Matthias chosen as an apostle?
The apostles cast lots to replace Judas, and Matthias was chosen.
193
What festival were Jews celebrating during Pentecost in Acts 2?
The Festival of Weeks, held 50 days after Passover and linked to the giving of the Law on Mount Sinai.
194
What does Pentecost represent in Acts?
The giving of the Holy Spirit, seen as the fulfillment of the Law and possibly a reversal of Babel.
195
What miraculous signs accompany the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost?
A violent wind from heaven and tongues of fire appearing over each person.
196
How many people joined the church after Peter’s sermon at Pentecost?
3,000 people.
197
What prophecy does Peter quote during his Pentecost sermon?
From Joel, saying the Spirit will be poured out on men and women, sons and daughters, slaves and free.
198
What does Acts 2:21 promise?
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
199
What phrase in Acts 2:38 summarizes Peter’s call to the people?
“Repent and be baptized… so that your sins may be forgiven, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
200
What economic system did early Christians practice according to Acts 2 and 4?
Voluntary communalism, where believers shared all things in common and gave to those in need.
201
Who models the “ideal Christian way” of giving in Acts 4?
Barnabas, who sold his field and gave all the proceeds to the apostles.
202
Who are the negative examples of lying to God in Acts 5?
Ananias and Sapphira, who lied about their donations and were struck dead.
New Testament
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