Audience Analysis of the Four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John

The four Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—were written with distinct audiences in mind. This article explores the settings and intended recipients of each gospel, shedding light on the strategic and literary choices made by the authors.

Gospel of Matthew

The Gospel of Matthew is uniquely positioned to address the needs of its primary audience, which included non-Christian Jews who needed to understand why Jesus was worthy of following. This gospel extensively references the Old Testament, making implicit arguments that were familiar to its audience.

By drawing upon the traditions and scriptures of the Hebrew Bible, Matthew successfully communicated why Jesus was the promised Messiah. This strategy was crucial in convincing a religious and culturally specific audience to make disciples for His movement.

Gospel of Mark

The Gospel of Mark appears to target a more diverse audience, comprising both Jews and pagans. Notably, some narrative details in the Gospel of Mark parallel ancient Greek stories. This literary technique may be attributed to the prominent role of Peter, as church tradition suggests. Given the mixed nature of the Galilee region, where Peter was active, it's plausible that Christians needed a gospel that resonated with the local religious context.

Gospel of Luke

Consistent with Luke's dedication to a man named Theophilus, the Gospel of Luke was written to serve a broader audience. The term 'Theophilus' likely holds a double meaning: not only a real person but also a symbolic representation of 'any friend of God.' This designation suggests an audience that extends beyond a single individual.

Further evidence points to a potential link between Luke and The Apostle Paul. Paul refers to 'my Gospel' in his epistles, and there are instances where his language aligns with the Gospel of Luke. It is quite possible that Luke wrote this gospel specifically for the Christian congregations Paul visited across the Roman Empire, aiming to provide a spiritual foundation for their faith.

Gospel of John

The Gospel of John was intended to reassure Christians and those considering conversion. As Christians faced persecution and uncertainty, John's gospel provided not just a narrative but a deeper, spiritual understanding of Jesus and His teachings. This gospel is characterized by its focus on Jesus' role as the Word of God and His ultimate mission of salvation.

John's gospel is particularly suited for individuals seeking a more profound connection with Christ, as well as for established believers needing encouragement and guidance in their faith.

Conclusion

All of the traditional gospels, while primarily aimed at Christian audiences, had broader implications. The Christian religion, as a whole, promotes the concept of proselytizing and spiritual salvation, making these gospels accessible to a wide range of people. Understanding the intended audience for each gospel provides insight into the strategic decision-making by the authors and highlights the diversity of Christian communities during the time of the New Testament.