Reception of the Twelve in Matthew and Luke: Comparing the Current Synoptic Hypotheses

Abstract

On the Markan priority, the portrayal and development of the Twelve belong to the most iconic improvements of Matthew and Luke over Mark’s gospel. Going back to the 19th century, proponents of Matthew’s and Luke’s independence have pointed out Luke’s non-use of Matthean additions to Mark, including such passages as Matthew 9:9; 14:28-31; 16:17-19; 17:24-27. In recent decades, defenders of the Farrer hypothesis (Luke’s use of Matthew) have attempted to explain Luke’s failure to take over Matthew’s changes of Mark in these instances with a range of proposals. This article takes up the debate, responding to the arguments of the Farrer scholars and engaging the recently resurgent Matthean Posteriority hypothesis (Matthew’s use of Luke) which, it will be suggested, faces a similar set of issues.