Comparative Study: Luke vs. John

(5–8 minutes, easy setup)
Learners will discuss the differences in the Resurrection accounts recorded in Luke and John.

Express that the gospels of Luke and John present the resurrection in different lights. Invite a volunteer to read Luke John 20:1-10. Remind learners that Luke discussed multiple women who came to the tomb while John focused most of his writing on Mary Magdalene’s experience. Lead learners to discuss the following:

Why do you think John focused on Mary Magdalene’s experience?
Why do you think Luke focused on the experience of the collected group of women?
How is Luke’s description of the resurrection different from John’s?

After discussion, share that, within the four gospels, we see a complete picture of what happened that early morning after Jesus’ crucifixion. State that Luke explained what had happened by including the message of the angel, while John showed the grief and joy experienced at the site of the empty tomb.