present form the Gospels are relatively polished and intricate works. The consequent cohesiveness characterizes literary works in general, regardless of their more particular genre (e.g., novels, biographies, and histories).7 Audiences in the ancient Mediterranean world would appreciate such literary preparation, even for many speeches.8 Writers of Greek and Latin narratives typically began with a rough draft before producing their final work;9 Jewish writers in Greek could do the same.10 The Gospels