This is an example of a question that priests will hear from their congregation but is a misperception as to what the Gospels were intended to convey along with their purpose. Each of the synoptic Gospels were written for a different specific purpose, although each for the general purpose of the salvation of souls through bringing the message of Christ to all peoples. To take the Gospel’s as literally true can best be described as “intellectual suicide” rather than faithful obedience to God’s Word. Obedience to God’s Word requires subjecting ourselves to the official interpretation given by the Magisterium of the Church as is guided by the Holy Spirit.