The question that is opened out as to the composition of the Synoptics is one of great difficulty and complexity.

In any case there is a balance of probability, more or less decided, in favour of the reference to our present Gospel.
Another very similar instance occurs in the next section of the synoptic narrative, the Transfiguration.

Here again the Clementine Homilies insert a phrase which is only found in St.Matthew, [Greek: [Houtos estin mou ho huios ho agapaetos], eis hon] ([Greek: en ho] Matt.) [Greek: aeudokaesa].

Ewald and Holtzmann say nothing about the origin of this phrase; Weiss [Endnote 176:1] thinks it is probably due to the first Evangelist.

In that case there would be an all but conclusive proof--in any case there will be a presumption--that our first Gospel has been followed.
But one of the most interesting, as well as the clearest, indications of the use of the first Synoptic is derived from the discourse directed against the Pharisees.