Discrepancies in Scripture Require Discerning Analysis

The presence of alleged discrepancies in the Gospels should not be dismissed as trivial without careful examination. It is essential to recognize that while the synoptic Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—often recount the same events, they may do so with varying orders and details that can create apparent contradictions. A rigorous approach acknowledges that not all differences undermine the truth of the Bible; instead, one must distinguish between what is essential and what is merely incidental. The guidance from the Second Vatican Council emphasizes that only those assertions made by the writers are inspired by the Holy Spirit, encouraging a focus on the core messages rather than auxiliary information.