When beginning to compare the two gospels of Matthew and Mark it is important to note the omission of the birth narrative from Mark. Matthew 1:18 gives a detailed account of Jesus’ birth and the important role of Joseph. It also illustrates how Jesus’ birth fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah. Matthew also presents the genealogy of Jesus to show that he is almost better than David and making him the king and Son of God. In Matthew 4:3-11, which is derived from source Q, Jesus states the importance of not putting the Lord to the test. Jesus is tempted by Satan, who offers him all of the kingdoms of the world, to which Jesus adamantly denies him. This addition helps Matthew paint his image of Jesus as the exemplar for every Christian. In Matthew 3:7-10, which is also from Q, illustrates that repentance is of really no value if it is not carried out by the proper action. This again demonstrates that Marks Jesus gives examples or ways to live by to his audience.
Matthew 4:13-16, which is derived from Mark, illustrates that Jesus brings the light to the land that has been darkened and in the shadow of death. This means that those who were not enlightened or taught by Jesus will now be, and that Jesus will be covering all of the land with the proper way to follow the Lord and his way.
In Matthew 4:17 he stresses the importance of repentance putting it before “for the kingdom of heaven is near”, which is opposite that of Mark who puts repent after the description of the kingdom and he also writes “believe in the good news” reiterating the news of God and all that he encompasses for those of Galilee.
In Matthew 4:24-25, Matthew draws upon the breadth of the spread of the word of Jesus. The use of his healings has reached the other lands and drove them to come to Jesus to be apart of the teachings of God. It also incorporated that Jesus could cure all, including “demoniacs” suggesting again the extreme importance of Jesus as an outlet of the power of God. These additions reiterate Matthews overall image of a compassionate Jesus. Jesus teaches by example and Matthew also incorporates some of the healing and miracles from Mark by way of Jesus showing the people his abilities.