-
Jesus cries out with a loud voice and then dies
Mark records Jesus crying out with a loud voice and then immediately dying.
Reference: Mark 15:37
Comparisons:
- Matthew also records a loud cry, framed alongside accompanying signs (Matthew 27:50).
- Luke records Jesus’ final words of trust before His death (Luke 23:46).
- John records Jesus’ final declaration, “It is finished,” emphasizing completion (John 19:30).
-
The tearing of the Temple veil
Luke places the tearing of the Temple veil before Jesus’ death. Matthew and Mark place the tearing after Jesus dies.
References: Luke 23:45–46; Matthew 27:51; Mark 15:38
Omission: John does not mention the veil.
-
Additional signs at Jesus’ death
Only Matthew records additional signs such as an earthquake and the opening of tombs.
Reference: Matthew 27:51–53
Omissions: Mark, Luke, and John do not record these phenomena.
-
Joseph of Arimathea as a secret disciple
John alone identifies Joseph of Arimathea as a secret disciple of Jesus.
Reference: John 19:38
Other descriptions:
- Matthew describes him as a rich man and disciple (Matthew 27:57).
- Mark emphasizes his courage in approaching Pilate (Mark 15:43).
- Luke notes his goodness and dissent from the council’s decision (Luke 23:50–51).
-
Pilate surprised at Jesus’ death
Only Mark records Pilate expressing surprise that Jesus had already died.
Reference: Mark 15:44
-
Women observing the burial
Matthew, Mark, and Luke record women observing where Jesus was laid.
References: Matthew 27:61; Mark 15:47; Luke 23:55
Notes:
- Mark and Luke name specific women, including Mary Magdalene.
- Matthew mentions women observing with fewer names.
- John records the burial but does not emphasize women as witnesses to the location (John 19:38–42).
-
Burial described with greatest detail
John provides the most detailed burial account, noting linen cloths, spices, the presence of Nicodemus, and preparation according to Jewish burial customs.
Reference: John 19:39–42