The New Testament begins with four distinct accounts of the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. To some, this might seem redundant; why four biographies when one comprehensive narrative might suffice? Yet, the very presence of four Gospels is a testament to the profound wisdom and meticulous design of God, offering a multifaceted and complete revelation of His Son, Jesus Christ. Far from being superfluous, each Gospel serves a unique and indispensable purpose, contributing to a fuller understanding of the Lord Jesus Christ than any single account could provide. This divine arrangement ensures that every facet of His glorious person and work is presented for the edification and salvation of mankind.

The Principle of Multiple Witnesses

One fundamental reason for the four Gospels lies in the biblical principle of multiple witnesses. Throughout Scripture, the testimony of two or three witnesses is established as the basis for confirming truth and validating facts. This principle is found in the Old Testament law:

At the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.

Deuteronomy 19:15

And it is reaffirmed in the New Testament:

This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.

2 Corinthians 13:1

God, in His infinite wisdom, chose not one, but four independent, divinely inspired accounts to bear witness to the life of His Son. These Gospels are not contradictory but complementary, offering different perspectives and details that corroborate the central truth of Christ's identity and mission. The consistency of their core message, despite their distinct angles, powerfully validates the historical reality and divine nature of Jesus, strengthening faith and silencing doubt for all who genuinely seek the truth.

Diverse Perspectives for Diverse Audiences

Each Gospel writer, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, presented Jesus Christ with a specific emphasis and for a particular audience. This allows for a comprehensive and relatable understanding of Christ to people from various backgrounds and needs:

  • The Gospel According to Matthew: Jesus as the King and Messiah. Matthew, a tax collector and Jew, wrote primarily to a Jewish audience. His Gospel emphasizes Jesus as the long-awaited King of Israel, the Son of David, and the fulfilment of Old Testament prophecy. He meticulously records Christ's lineage through Abraham and David, demonstrating His rightful claim to the throne. Matthew's Gospel frequently uses phrases like "that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet" and includes the Sermon on the Mount, presenting Jesus as the authoritative Lawgiver and King.
  • The Gospel According to Mark: Jesus as the Servant and Son of God. Mark, traditionally associated with Peter, wrote primarily to a Roman or Gentile audience. His Gospel is characterized by action and immediacy, often using the word "straightway" or "immediately." Mark presents Jesus as the powerful Servant of God, ever active, performing miracles, and demonstrating His authority. He emphasizes Christ's deeds more than His discourses, portraying Him as the obedient Son of God who came "not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45).
  • The Gospel According to Luke: Jesus as the Son of Man and Universal Saviour. Luke, a Gentile physician and historian, wrote to a Gentile audience, most notably to "Theophilus." His Gospel presents Jesus as the perfect Son of Man, emphasizing His humanity, compassion, and universal appeal. Luke traces Christ's genealogy all the way back to Adam, signifying His connection to all humanity. He highlights Jesus's prayers, His concern for the poor, the outcast, and women, and includes parables unique to his Gospel, such as the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son, showcasing Christ's boundless love and mercy for all nations.
  • The Gospel According to John: Jesus as the Son of God and Divine Word. John, the beloved disciple, wrote to a more universal audience, particularly to believers, with the explicit purpose of leading them to faith and eternal life. His Gospel profoundly emphasizes the deity of Christ, presenting Him as the eternal Word of God who "was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). John records Jesus's "I AM" statements (e.g., "I am the bread of life," "I am the light of the world," "I am the way, the truth, and the life"), testifying to His divine attributes. His aim is clearly stated: "But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name" (John 20:31).

A More Complete Portrait of Christ

Individually, each Gospel offers a vital perspective; collectively, they paint a complete and unparalleled portrait of Jesus Christ. Imagine trying to understand a complex diamond by looking at only one facet. You would miss much of its brilliance and depth. Similarly, each Gospel highlights different aspects of Christ's person, ministry, and teachings. Matthew reveals His kingship, Mark His servanthood, Luke His perfect humanity, and John His glorious deity. Together, they form a harmonious and holistic picture:

  • He is the prophesied King who reigns in righteousness.
  • He is the humble Servant who lays down His life.
  • He is the perfect Man who identifies with our infirmities.
  • He is the divine Son of God, equal with the Father.

This fourfold presentation prevents any single, incomplete, or distorted view of Christ. It ensures that believers can grasp the full scope of His identity as both fully God and fully man, the promised Messiah, and the universal Saviour, whose life and death have profound implications for all humanity.

Divine Sovereignty and Purpose

The existence of four Gospels is not a historical accident or a mere compilation of human efforts; it is a deliberate act of divine sovereignty. God, in His infinite wisdom, orchestrated the writing of these distinct accounts through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, ensuring that His eternal purposes for humanity would be fully revealed. This divine arrangement demonstrates God's meticulous care in preserving the truth about His Son for all generations. It speaks to the richness and depth of Christ's person that no single human author, even under divine inspiration, could encapsulate all His glory in one volume.

The four Gospels stand as an enduring testament to God's desire for mankind to know Jesus Christ intimately and completely. They provide a rich tapestry of truth that invites diligent study, deep contemplation, and unwavering faith. They are not merely historical documents but living testimonies, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to draw men to the Saviour.

Conclusion

In summary, the presence of four Gospels is a profound blessing, revealing the depth of God's wisdom and His desire for humanity to fully comprehend His Son. They adhere to the biblical principle of multiple witnesses, provide diverse perspectives for varied audiences, and collectively paint a complete and magnificent portrait of Jesus Christ as King, Servant, Son of Man, and Son of God. Each Gospel is essential, not redundant, contributing unique insights that, when combined, offer an unparalleled and divinely comprehensive revelation of the Lord. Therefore, let us embrace and diligently study all four Gospels, allowing their combined testimony to deepen our understanding, strengthen our faith, and compel us to worship the One who is truly all in all.