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As I preach through the Gospel according to Mark, I will look at parallel passages to the one I am proclaiming. If Mark records an event or saying of Jesus, I will turn to Luke or Matthew to see how (and if) it is recorded there.

When I look, I am sometimes challenged by parallel passages that seem to be slightly different. If you have ever found yourself in this posisiton, my favorite Greek scholar, Rob Plummer, has written this great article. Access it be clicking --> here <-- (6 minute read) Here are his summary thoughts:

If you’re a skeptical reader of Scripture, be honest about your questions. Pray about the concern, study the text carefully, and pose questions to a trusted source. Don’t be afraid to ask honest questions of the text, and to seek help answering if you need it.

Never avoid difficulties in the text. Instead, seek the Lord and consult trusted sources.

In my experience, I have found that there are three wells you can consult. First, there are honest, scholarly, and trusted sources. Next, there are well-meaning resources that apply very little honest reason or research. They may affirm the right things about Scripture, but they apply either sloppy analysis or they miss the point altogether. Finally, there are those who look for every opportunity to destroy the inerrancy or trustworthiness of Scripture. These will seemingly apply academic thought, but their biases and presuppositions about Scripture are apparent as you critically read them. 

Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you. - James 4:8-10