Irenaeus Defends the Fourfold Gospel

Full Account

Writing against Gnostic teachers, Irenaeus appealed repeatedly to the Old Testament, four Gospels, Acts, Paul's letters, First Peter, First John, Revelation, and other apostolic writings.

His insistence on exactly four Gospels reflects reception already shared across distant churches. Irenaeus had links with Asia Minor, lived in Gaul, and knew traditions associated with Rome, making his testimony geographically important.

Historical Significance

Irenaeus demonstrates that the four-Gospel collection and a broad New Testament core were recognized well before fourth-century councils.

People, Places and Sources

• Key people: Irenaeus of Lyons; Matthew; Mark; Luke; John
• Key places: Lyons; Asia Minor; Rome
• Languages: Greek, Latin
• Scripture: Matthew 1:1
  Mark 1:1
  Luke 1:1-4
  John 20:30-31