Which version do you like ?

The 4 Gospels can give differing accounts of the same story….either adding details or omitting details. In contrast the OT does not usually have different books reporting the same story. Therefore the Gospels can present a challenge. How do we understand or interpret what seem to be discrepancies ?

One such story that is of interest to me involves the crucifixion story. The Matthew and Mark versions have both of the criminals that were being crucified alongside of Jesus as both mocking him. The Luke version, however, has only one mocking Jesus. Luke 23:40…”But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence ? We are punished justly, for we are getting what we deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.”

Of course, assuming we have a choice I prefer the Luke version. Furthermore v. 43 has Jesus promising that criminal…”today you will be with me in paradise”. A number of things to unpack here….first the criminal uttering ‘God’…..and then this being an example of repentance and forgiveness.

Finally it reminds me of Peter answering the question of Jesus….who do you say that I am ? Peter identified Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God. Jesus then noted that man had not revealed this to Peter but that it had been by the Father of Christ in heaven…..Matthew 16:13-20.

I like to think that the criminal’ answer was also given by revelation from God…..any thoughts ?