-
In which Gospel are the disciples portrayed most negatively?
- Mark
- Matthew
- Luke
- John
-
Why is the presentation of this scene in John’s Gospel so different from the narratives in the three Synoptic Gospels?
- The writer(s) are not working from written texts of any of the other Gospels.
- The writer(s) are uncomfortable thinking of Jesus as trying to avoid his imminent sufferings.
- The writer(s) want to emphasize the divine origins of Jesus, so they depict him as willingly submitting to those much weaker than he.
- All of the above.
-
Although Matthew mostly reiterates Mark’s presentation of the arrest scene as the abandonment of Jesus by everyone, he includes Jesus’ announcement that he could call upon twelve legions of angels. How might this relate to Matthew’s Christology?
- Since faith in Jesus should not be based on his miraculous feats, the Matthean Jesus does not invoke celestial aid, though he has the power to do so.
- Matthew wants to stress that Jesus is God’s Son and so could overpower his foes.
- This reminder of Jesus’ divine authority may reflect the Matthean idea that the Wisdom of God is usually rejected by human beings.
- By using the word “legion,” Mathew is implying that Jesus has more power than the legions of the Roman Empire.
-
How does Luke’s presentation of this scene reflect his image of Jesus as the healing or reconciling bringer of peace
- Jesus kisses Judas and calls him “friend.”
- The disciples ask if they should take up the sword, and when one of them does without permission, Jesus restores the severed ear of the servant.
- Jesus prays that if he drinks the cup peace will come into the world
- Jesus tells the arresting party that he forgives them for coming out against him with swords and clubs.
-
How is Mark’s Christology related to his depiction of the disciples in this scene?
- The disciples are overcome by sorrow and they do not run away from Jesus in his hour of need because Mark focuses on the reconciling love that Jesus inspires. )
- The disciples are shown as not having strong faith because for Mark no one can really be Jesus’ disciple unless they recognize the meaning of his death.
- Because Jesus declares that angelic legions are at his divine command, the disciples draw their swords.
- When the arresting party falls to the ground when Jesus declares, “I am he,” the disciples also fall to the ground in awe.