of Mark’s gospel, believing that both Matthew and Luke borrowed heavily from Mark. But the evidence put forward for the priority of Mark is not as strong as many would suggest.9 There is strong evidence from the church fathers for the priority of Matthew. Their testimony is quite clear that Matthew was the first gospel written, followed by Mark, Luke, and John. Also, it is logical that Matthew would be written early (and possibly first), because there was an immediate need for a gospel that was directed
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