Die Königsmacher

Jesus is the only true king and shall be recognised as such. The synoptic gospels intend to convince their ancient readers of this - well justified. They legitimate Jesus as king in a literary way - and at the same time distance him from possible competitors. Apart from the consensus in all three gospels the readers find specific strategies for legitimation (Mark: aretalogical-charismatic; Mathew: genealogical-dynastic; Luke: religious-theocratic). The synoptic gospels intervene in ancient power-political discourses and run "election campaigns" for Jesus. In the ancient universe of rulers with its competing candidates they clearly take side for their favourite candidate Jesus and therefore take an important part in the "concert" of the "ancient king makers".