Philosophy and Theology

Volume 3, Issue 3, Spring 1989

The Two Sacraments Doctrine as a Factor in Synoptic Relationships

I argue that baptism and the Lord’s supper were two closely connected and central notions for the Gospel authors. The way in which baptism was connected to forgiveness also provides clues to interdependencies among the Gospel narratives. Following summary examination of the doctrines in Matthew and Paul, I conclude that Mark and John provide a fully developed doctrine of the two sacraments.