Understanding the Four Gospels

What Does “Gospel” Mean?

The word Gospel comes from the Greek word εὐαγγέλιον (euangelion), which means “good news”. In the context of the New Testament, this “good news” refers to the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ—the fulfillment of God’s plan to redeem humanity from sin. The Gospels proclaim this message, not merely as a historical account, but as divine truth meant to bring salvation to those who believe (Romans 1:16).

Why Only Four Gospels?

The New Testament contains four canonical Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—because these books provide a complete, Spirit-inspired, and trustworthy testimony of Jesus Christ from different perspectives. Though other writings were circulating in the early church (some of which were rejected due to theological error or lack of apostolic authority), the early church recognized these four as uniquely authoritative and consistent with apostolic teaching. Their inclusion was affirmed through careful discernment by the early Christian community under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

What Are the Synoptic Gospels?

The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called the Synoptic Gospels. The word “synoptic” comes from the Greek συν (syn) meaning “together” and ὄψις (opsis) meaning “view”. So, “synoptic” means “seeing together.” These three Gospels share a similar structure, many of the same stories, and often use nearly identical wording. It is likely that Mark is the earliest written and serves as a primary source for Matthew and Luke.

Order and Authorship of the Gospels

Although Matthew is placed first in the New Testament canon, most scholars agree that Mark was the earliest Gospel written, likely around AD 60–70. It is also the shortest Gospel and is characterized by its fast-paced narrative and emphasis on Jesus' actions.

• Mark: Traditionally, it is agreed that John Mark is the author. He was a companion of Apostle Peter. This Gospel presents Jesus as the Suffering Servant and the Son of God.

• Matthew: Written by the apostle Matthew (a former tax collector), his gospel emphasizes Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah and focuses on His teachings, especially through discourses like the Sermon on the Mount.

• Luke: Written by Luke, a physician and companion of Paul, it presents a careful, orderly account of Jesus’ life and focuses on His compassion, ministry to the marginalized, and role as the Savior for all people.

• John: Written by the apostle John, this Gospel stands apart in style and content. It focuses deeply on Jesus’ divine identity as the Son of God, with theological reflections not found in the Synoptics. It includes seven “I Am” statements and highlights Jesus’ deity and glory.

  
  

The Gospels as Reliable Historical Testimony

All four Gospels were written in the first century, within a few decades of Jesus’ earthly ministry. This close proximity to the events they describe makes them historically credible. Their authors were either eyewitnesses or closely connected to eyewitnesses, and they wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20–21).

These Gospel accounts give us the most accurate and authoritative record of Jesus’ life, teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection. Through them, we come to know who Jesus is—not only as a historical figure but as the Savior and Lord.

Why the Gospels Matter

The Gospels are foundational to the Christian faith. They:

• Reveal the person and work of Jesus Christ.

• Preserve His teachings and commandments.

• Testify to His death and resurrection—the core of the Gospel message.

• Provide the model for Christian living and discipleship.

• Fulfill the promises of the Old Testament, showing that Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.

  
  

In reading and studying the Gospels, believers grow in their understanding of God’s character, the nature of salvation, and the call to follow Christ in obedience and faith.

The four Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—form the heart of the New Testament. Together, they proclaim the one Gospel of Jesus Christ from four Spirit-guided perspectives. Though written by different men with unique styles and emphases, they unite in testifying to the same truth: Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, and through Him alone is eternal life (John 20:31).