The Fourth Pope: Evaristus and His Context in Early Christianity

In early Christian history, the roles of the early bishops of Rome, including the fourth pope, Evaristus, were significant in shaping the foundational doctrines and practices of the Church. According to historical records, Evaristus followed Linus and Cletus, two of the earlier popes mentioned by Irenaeus in Adversus Haereses. Evaristus succeeded Clement, who is also considered one of Rome's prime early bishops, and his tenure is marked by important traditions and letters sent to Corinth.

Early Bishops of Rome

Irenaeus, a prominent early Christian writer of the 2nd century, provides one of the earliest known lists of the bishops of Rome in his work Adversus Haereses. In Book III, Chapter 3 of his epistle, he lists the succession of the bishops of Rome beginning with the apostles Peter and Paul. Here is the list according to Irenaeus:

Peter (1st pope) Paul (2nd pope) Linus (3rd pope) Cletus (4th pope) Clement (5th pope) Evaristus (6th pope)

Enudit itaque Apostolorum apostolos [Peter et Paulom] ut regnum Christi funderent, et ex eo Ecclesiam construunt, Linum ab eis episcopatum impegit, cui Linus in epistula Timotheo optime testimonium datur. Cui Postea succedit Anacletus, cui successit in tertio Clementis locus ab Apostolis Romam devolutus. ... From this document, we can learn that there was a significant dissension in the Corinthian community, the Church in Rome dispatched a powerful letter to the Corinthians in the time of Clement, exhorting them to peace and declaring the tradition received from the apostles.

The Role of Evaristus

Evaristus, the sixth from the apostles, succeeded Clement. His role in the early Christian community was crucial in maintaining the apostolic traditions and reinforcing the faith among the believers. The document mentioned by Irenaeus, written during the time of Clement, provides a detailed insight into the apostolic traditions and the belief in the one God, the Father of Lord Jesus Christ.

These traditions were passed down through the succession of bishops, ensuring the preservation and continuation of the truth. His reign saw the maintenance of unity within the Church, particularly in addressing the dispute in Corinth and reaffirming the apostolic teachings.

Significance and Legacy

The importance of understanding the early bishops like Evaristus lies in their role in preserving and passing down the apostolic traditions. Their legacy is not just a matter of historical interest but also serves as a reminder of the importance of continuity and tradition in Christian faith and practice. This is evident in the manner in which the early Church addressed internal disputes and maintained loyalty to the teachings of the apostles.

Conclusion

The fourth pope, Evaristus, holds a significant place in the early Christian history. His reign marks a period of importance in the development of the Roman Church and the preservation of apostolic traditions. Through the document written by Clement, we gain insight into the early Christian faith and the roles of the early popes in maintaining it. By understanding these early figures, we can better grasp the roots of Christian doctrine and the importance of the early Church's teachings.