The Jimmy Akin Podcast
#028 Why Are the Gospels Called “Gospels”? - Jimmy Akin
Apr 7, 2025
Discover why the New Testament writings are called 'Gospels' instead of biographies. Dive into the historical significance of their naming conventions and how these titles shape our understanding of Jesus's life. Explore the emergence of the term 'Gospel,' especially in connection with Mark, and see how early Christian figures influenced its use. This engaging discussion reveals the layers of meaning behind these texts and their pivotal role in conveying God's message.
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Quick takeaways
- The Gospels are specialized biographies emphasizing the divine relationship between God and Jesus, rather than traditional human life stories.
- The term 'gospel' likely originated from Mark's Gospel, shaping how subsequent Gospels were titled and understood within the early church.
Deep dives
The Nature of the Gospels
The Gospels are often referred to as biographies of Christ, yet they are distinct in their purpose and naming conventions. Unlike typical biographies that center on the subject's life story, the Gospels emphasize the relationship between God and Jesus, framing the narrative around the divine rather than solely human aspects. This reclassification reveals that the primary aim of the Gospels is to convey the message of the good news, or 'euangelion,' which centers on Jesus's mission and ministry rather than a straightforward account of his life. This makes them a specialized form of biography that upholds theological significance over mere historical recounting.
