Explain what the study of the Synoptic Gospels can tell Christians today about the nature of discipleship.

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Year 10 Coursework A01

Explain what the study of the Synoptic Gospels can tell Christians today about the nature of discipleship.

In this piece of work, I am going to describe and explain what a Christian today can learn from the synoptic gospels about being a disciple.

The synoptic gospels are written by Matthew, Mark, and Luke and are found in the New Testament. The word ‘synoptic’ means ‘similar’ and the word ‘gospel’ means ‘good news’, so the synoptic gospels are similar accounts of the good news. In the synoptic gospels, there are events and parables, stories with hidden meanings, which help to explain what it means to be a disciple.

A disciple is someone who learns from another. They are faithful and loyal, and also trustworthy. In Jesus’ time, the disciples were followers of Jesus, and believed in him. They also spread the good news. To be a disciple, Certain qualities are needed, including courage, faith, hope, patience, determination, commitment and sacrifice. Importantly, the accounts of Jesus show that anyone can be a disciple, even sinners and the oppressed.

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I am going to write about some of the qualities needed to be a disciple, and explain what Christians today can learn about discipleship from the synoptic gospels. Firstly, throughout the synoptic gospels, Christians can see that the quality of faith is essential for being a disciple. For example, in Matthew 14:22-32, Jesus told Peter to walk towards him on the water. But when the wind started to blow, Peter became afraid and began to sink, because he had not had faith in Jesus. This can teach Christians today that disciples need to keep their lives and faith focused ...

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