The Passion and Crucifixion of Christ the Two Accounts

Luckily the accounts are not identical. Specifically, only thereof the four gospels are considered as synoptic which indicates that they have almost similar accounts. In this paper, we explore the differences and similarities in the account of the passion and crucifixion of Christ from the viewpoint of Mark and Luke. Historically, the book of Mark is labeled as the ancient of the two texts. It was written well before the book of Luke, and most of the observed differences are defined to be additives to the text written by Mark. Also, we find that the disciples were involved in both accounts in the preparation of the last supper. The account so far indicates a striking similarity in the description of what Jesus did in this time before his betrayal and ultimate hand over to his tormentors.

Jesus then broke the bread in both accounts and handed over his mission to them as an example (Luke 22:14-23, Mark 14:17-25, The New King James Version). It is in this event that he predicted his betrayal by one of the disciples. Then Jesus went on to Gethsemane where he prayed with his disciples. Pilate is assured of his innocence and offer to returns him to the people after a minor castigation. However, the priests convince people to clamor for Barabbas a mere thief (Luke 23:17-25, Mark 15:6-15, The New King James Version). Pilate caves and he offer Jesus over to be crucified. Along the way to Golgotha, both accounts offer the description of the Simon of Cyrene who is forced to carry the cross on Jesus behalf so that he can reach the top (Luke 23:32-33, Mark 15:22-26, The New King James Version).

When they reached the top, both accounts give the scourge of Jesus through the mockery by the soldiers. Also, during the last supper, Jesus predicts his betrayal in both accounts. However, Luke gives an account in which the disciples argue on their greatness (Luke 22:24-30, The New King James Version). The argument on who is greatest gives Jesus a chance to use humility as an indicator of their exultation in his kingdom. After the capture of Jesus, Luke gives an account in which the Chief priests and the Sanhedrin question Jesus on his self-acclaimed claim of kingship (Luke 22:66-71, The New King James Version). When Jesus confirms their questions, they use this as the basis for forwarding him to Pilate for a definitive trail that would lead to his death.

The thief on his right was remorseful and asked Jesus to remember him when he came to his kingdom. These are the accounts differences and similarities on the passion and the crucifixion of Jesus. However, although they give a well-tied account, the differences are an indicator of the historicity of the gospels. The earliest gospel was written almost a century after the resurrection of Jesus. The latter accounts were even written later which would give the range of differences. It is in this feast that he commemorated one of the most significant events which are breaking of the bread and taking of the wine which has since become symbols of many Christians faith. On the contrary, there are also differences which depart from the one account to another.