# A Disciple of The Apostles The teachings and accounts of the Gospels have a direct lineage from the apostles, as emphasized by Irenaeus. He references a respected 'presbyter,' believed to be Polycarp of Smyrna, who was a disciple of the apostles. This presbyter reportedly received teachings from earlier sources, specifically the apostles and their disciples. Irenaeus' consistent testimonies in both [[Saint_Irenaeus_Bishop_of_Lyon_1992-op.|Against Heresies]] and the [[Schaff2017-jn.|Letter to Florinius]] further validate this claim. Moreover, Irenaeus states that it was first proclaimed publicly by the apostles and later documented in Scriptures by God's will. This chain of transmission, as highlighted by Irenaeus, affirms that the Gospels were passed down directly from the apostles, serving as the foundation of Christian faith ([[Hill2006-fo.]]).