c. AD 60 – c. 130

Papias of Hierapolis

He is the earliest named source for the origins of the Gospels of Mark and Matthew.

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Location
Hierapolis in Phrygia (Asia Minor)
Role
Bishop and collector of oral traditions about the Apostles
Major writings
  • Exposition of the Sayings of the Lord (fragments)
Teachings
  • Preference for living oral testimony over books
  • Early witness to Gospel authorship
Connection to apostolic Christianity
Irenaeus calls him a hearer of John and a companion of Polycarp, placing him one step from the apostolic circle.

Quotations with references

Mark, having become Peter's interpreter, wrote down accurately whatever he remembered of the things said or done by the Lord.

Papias, in Eusebius, Church History 3.39.15

Sources and References