The Four Evangelists—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—are the authors traditionally attributed to the four canonical Gospels of the New Testament. These books, titled The Gospel of Matthew, The Gospel of Mark, The Gospel of Luke, and The Gospel of John, narrate the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The evangelists are regarded as heralds of the “good news” (gospel), embodying their role as proclaimers of the Christian faith.

The Gospels: Synoptic and Johannine Accounts

The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are collectively referred to as the Synoptic Gospels due to their shared content, structure, and sequence of events. These three Gospels often recount similar stories, sometimes using identical wording, which suggests interdependence or common sources. In contrast, the Gospel of John stands apart with its distinctive theological approach and focus on the divinity of Christ.

Authorship and Historical Context

Tradition identifies the evangelists as follows:

1. Matthew: A former tax collector and one of Jesus’s Twelve Apostles.
2. Mark: A close associate of the Apostle Peter, often described as an “apostolic man.”
3. Luke: A physician, companion of Paul, and author of both the Gospel of Luke and Acts of the Apostles.
4. John: The youngest of the Twelve Apostles and a disciple deeply loved by Jesus.

Although these attributions are widely accepted in Christian tradition, modern scholarship debates their historical accuracy. The Gospels are believed to have been written between 65 and 100 CE, long after the events they describe.

Origins and Meaning of the Evangelists’ Symbols

In Christian iconography, the Four Evangelists are symbolized by four living creatures described in the visions of Ezekiel (1:10) and Revelation (4:7). These creatures, often depicted with wings, represent both the Evangelists and deeper theological truths about Christ and Christian virtues. The symbolism, codified by early Church Fathers like Jerome and Rabanus Maurus, assigns specific meanings to each figure:

1. Matthew: Represented by a winged man or angel, symbolizing reason and Christ’s human nature. Matthew’s Gospel emphasizes Jesus’s incarnation and begins with a genealogy linking Him to Abraham.
2. Mark: Represented by a winged lion, a symbol of courage and resurrection. Lions, believed to sleep with their eyes open, were associated with Christ’s triumph over death. Mark’s Gospel highlights the kingship of Christ.
3. Luke: Represented by a winged ox or bull, symbolizing sacrifice and service. The ox reflects Jesus’s role as the sacrificial lamb and high priest. Luke’s Gospel begins with the temple duties of Zechariah and underscores themes of sacrifice.
4. John: Represented by an eagle, symbolizing Christ’s divine nature and the ability to soar to heavenly heights. John’s Gospel starts with a theological prologue, focusing on the eternal nature of the Logos (Word).

These symbols, collectively known as the Tetramorph, were common in Romanesque and medieval Christian art, appearing in illuminated manuscripts, frescoes, and church architecture.

The Life of Jesus of Nazareth as described in the Gospels

The Evangelists in Art and Literature

Illuminated Manuscripts

The Four Evangelists frequently appear in illuminated manuscripts, often accompanied by their respective symbols. Examples include:

• Book of Kells: This Irish masterpiece prominently depicts the Tetramorph, highlighting the evangelists’ symbolic roles.
• Egmond Gospels: Featuring intricate portraits of the evangelists paired with their symbols.
• Codex Amiatinus: An early complete Vulgate Bible from the 8th century showcasing detailed depictions of the evangelists.

Church Architecture and Frescoes

Romanesque and Gothic churches often feature the Tetramorph in their portals, tympana, and apses. The evangelists’ symbols commonly surround Christ in Majesty, illustrating the unity of the Gospel message.

Paintings

Artists such as Peter Paul Rubens and Abraham Bloemaert created vivid depictions of the evangelists, emphasizing their humanity and divine inspiration. These works often incorporated their symbolic creatures to reinforce theological themes.

Theological and Symbolic Significance

The evangelists’ symbols serve multiple purposes:

• Representation of Christ: Each symbol reflects a different aspect of Jesus—His humanity (Matthew), kingship (Mark), sacrificial role (Luke), and divinity (John).
• Virtues for Salvation: The symbols also represent Christian virtues—reason (Matthew), courage (Mark), sacrifice (Luke), and spiritual vision (John).
• Hierarchy of Creation: Drawing on medieval cosmology, the symbols signify the highest forms of life: man (reason), lion (majesty), ox (strength), and eagle (transcendence).

These interpretations highlight the multifaceted nature of the Gospel message, integrating the human and divine.

Decline and Legacy of the Symbols

From the 13th century onward, depictions of the Tetramorph became less common. The growing emphasis on Christ’s Passion led to new representations of Jesus in art, focusing on His wounds and suffering. Despite this shift, the symbols of the Four Evangelists remain a cornerstone of Christian iconography, preserving their theological and artistic legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Synoptic Gospels, and why are they called so?

Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called Synoptic Gospels because they share similar stories, sequences, and phrasing.

What are the symbols associated with the Four Evangelists?

Matthew: Winged man/angel; Mark: Winged lion; Luke: Winged ox; John: Eagle.

What do the symbols of the Four Evangelists represent?

They symbolize aspects of Christ: human nature (Matthew), kingship (Mark), sacrifice (Luke), and divinity (John).

How are the Evangelists depicted in medieval art?

They are often shown with their symbols, with wings, in Evangelist portraits, church frescoes, and Gospel books.

What is a Tetramorph, and where is it found?

A Tetramorph depicts the four Evangelist symbols together, often surrounding Christ, and is common in Romanesque art.

What is the significance of the order of the Evangelist symbols around Christ?

The arrangement (man, lion, ox, eagle) reflects the medieval hierarchy of creatures and Ezekiel’s vision (1:10).

Which Gospel is believed to have been written first, and which last?

Mark’s Gospel is thought to be the earliest, and John’s the latest among the four.