THE FOUR GOSPEL ACCOUNTS

Matthew, Mark and Luke all take a similar approach and deal with similar content. Because of this, these three are known as the Synoptic Gospels ("synoptic" means "to view together"). The differences between them are described below. The Gospel of John takes a different (deeper and more spiritual) approach from the other three. Except for Luke, the Gospel writers did not place great emphasis on exactly when events in Jesus' ministry happened. Therefore, many of the events are not given in chronological order. See the section "Why Four Gospels?" for further discussion of the gospels as a group.

Matthew

Author : Matthew, who left his work as a tax collector to become one of the twelve apostles (Matthew 9:9-13). Matthew (Hebrew Mattityahu) means "Gift of the Lord."

Period: 4 B.C. - 30 A.D.

Summary: Matthew is aimed at a Jewish audience. Its purpose is to witness that Jesus was the promised Messiah of the Old Testament. Matthew emphasizes the words of the Lord regarding the Kingdom of Heaven. This was done to counterbalance the popular Jewish belief of the day that the Messiah would be a militant leader who would overthrow the then current Roman occupation and re-establish the throne of David. Instead, Matthew speaks of the servant role that Jesus led while on earth.

CHRIST AS KING--THE FACE OF A LION

(see faces described in Ezekiel 1:5-10, 10:20-22)

Key Verse: "The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham." Matthew 1:1

Unique Features: Matthew makes no less than sixty references to the Old Testament writings as fulfilled in Christ, so that the word "fulfilled" becomes characteristic of the book. The word "Kingdom" is met with fifty-five times; "Kingdom of Heaven" thirty-two times; "Son of David" seven times. The Jews laid great store on Scripture, and this Gospel, written particularly for them, abounds in such references.

Breakdown:

Preparation: Chapter 1:1 - 4:16

Preaching:Chapter 4:17 -18:35

TEN MIGHTY WORKS SHOWING HIS ABILITY TO RULE

There are a couple of digressions (see 8:18-22; 9:9-17), but they are related to the miracles performed. The miracles revealed physically what the Gospel can do spiritually.

What people thought: Chapter 11:1 - 18:35

TEN REACTIONS TO HIS CALL

John the Baptist in doubt: 11:1-15

Passover: Chapter 19:1 - 28:20

Mark

Author:John Mark, a young believer who assisted Paul and Barnabas in their missionary work (Acts 12:25, 13:5). The fact that Mark had two given names, one Hebrew (John) and the other Latin (Mark), may indicate that he came from a family of Hellenistic Jews.

Period: 4 B.C. - 30 A.D.

Summary:Mark describes in detail Jewish customs and is therefore thought to be aimed at an audience unfamiliar with Jewish ways (in particular, Romans). Mark describes in very lifelike terms the miracles of Jesus and great detail is given to Christ's crucifixion and death. It is thought that Mark was the first of the four gospels to be written (probably between 65 and 70 A.D). Some feel that the book was taken by dictation from the Apostle Peter because some events contained in the book are unique to Peter.

CHRIST AS SERVANT--THE FACE OF AN OX

Key verse:". . . the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." Mark 10:45

Unique Features: Originally written (as is thought) for Romans, there are very few references to the Old Testament Scriptures contained in this Gospel. Jewish words are explained (3:17, 5:41, 7:11,34, 14:36), as are Jewish customs (7:3-4, 14:12, 15:42). Latin expressions are frequently used such as Legion and Centurion. The Romans admired action, and this Gospel depicts the Lord as an active worker.

Breakdown:

Sanctification:Chapter 1:1-13

Service:Chapter 1:14 - 8:30

Sacrifice: Chapter 8:31 -15:47

Service Renewed: Chapter 16:1-20

Luke

Author:Luke, a physician and companion of the Apostle Paul in his journeys (see Colossians 4:14 and Philemon 24). Luke was almost certainly a Gentile, which would make him the only non-Jewish human author of a Biblical book. Luke's name is Greek (Loukas), and means "light bearing."

Period:4 B.C. - 30 A.D.

Summary:The book of Luke gives us the most complete look at the life of Jesus. It takes many of its writings from the Gospel according to Mark. Luke also uses eyewitnesses as sources for his writings. He stresses Jesus' humanity and compassion, as well as the power of the Holy Spirit and of prayer. Luke is at home in both Jewish and Gentile settings and his account of the Gospel forms a two-part work with the book of Acts.

CHRIST AS PERFECT MAN--THE FACE OF A MAN

Key Verses:"Now when the centurion saw what had happened, he glorified God, saying, 'Certainly this was a righteous Man.'" Luke 23:47

"For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost." Luke 19:10

Unique Features: It was written particularly for Greeks who delighted in wisdom, beauty and system. Luke, therefore, tells the story of Jesus, unfolding his development in a systematic manner, setting the facts in chronological order in a manner not attempted by the other writers. Luke was an artist with a pen, drawing the portrait of Jesus as the perfect man.

Breakdown:

The Son of Man in his human relationships: Chapter 1 :1- 4:13

The Son of Man as Prophet-King in Galilee:Chapter 4:14 - 9:50

The Son of Man is his Judean-Perean ministry: Chapter 9:51 - 19:27

The Son of Man rejected as Israel's King: Chapter 19:28 - 23:56

The Son of Man glorified: Chapter 24:1-53

John

Author:John, one of the twelve apostles, described as the disciple "whom Jesus loved" (John 13:23). This apostle also wrote 1, 2 and 3 John, and recorded the book of Revelation. His name (Hebrew Yochanan) means "The Lord is gracious."

Period: 4 B.C. - 30 A.D.

Summary:The book of John was written in order that men and women might believe that Jesus is the Son of God. John cites eight signs to establish and prove this point culminating in the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. John is the only book of the four Gospels that does not record any parables; instead John emphasizes Jesus as the manifestation of God. John's account of the Gospel was the last to be written, and contains much more spiritual language than the synoptics. The Bible reader, upon recognizing this, will employ additional discernment while reading the highly spiritual and metaphorical language found in John's Gospel account.

CHRIST AS THE WORD MADE FLESH--THE FACE OF AN EAGLE

Key Verse:". . . these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name." John 20:31

Unique Features: There are many key words in John's Gospel, and dominant throughout is the word "believe," which occurs over eighty times. The word, however, implies a belief that has developed into faith or conviction. As such, this Gospel was written for believers. They are enabled thereby to perceive the inner-strength of Jesus, and to see that it stemmed from a greater than he, even God. Another peculiarity is the frequent use of the word "Jew." It is only found once in Matthew, twice each in Mark and Luke, but over sixty times in John. John concerns himself more with the Judean ministry that Matthew and Mark hardly touch upon, and he records only eight miracles (which he terms "signs") that set in sequential order the whole purpose of God in Christ.

Breakdown:

From everlasting: Chapter 1:1-18

God manifest in the flesh: Chapter 1:19 -19:42

To everlasting: Chapter 20:1- 21 :25


WHY FOUR GOSPELS?

Isaiah spoke of the Messiah as the ideal Israelite (Isaiah 49:3-6), implying by this that he would manifest all the qualities of virtue to which Israel, as a nation, was called. The Israelites were taken out of Egypt to glorify God (Jeremiah 13:11; Isaiah 43:7) by manifesting His characteristics both individually and nationally. To that end they encamped around the Tabernacle and in the shadow of four standards that reproduced the faces of the Cherubim, which overshadowed the Mercy Seat in the Tabernacle. The nation of Israel was divided into four sections under the leadership of the tribes of Judah, Ephraim, Reuben and Dan with the standards of a Lion, Ox, Man and Eagle (Ezekiel 1:10), representing royalty, service, humanity and divinity.

Many Bible students have long recognized that these same four aspects are exhibited in the four accounts of Christ's ministry. Matthew emphasizes his royal dignity, constantly drawing upon the prophecies of the Old Testament in confirmation of his majesty. Mark gives attention to the Lord's work of service, recording what he did for others, including the miracles and acts of love that he rendered. Luke treats his ministry from the standpoint of his humanity, tracing his genealogy back to Adam (Luke 3:23-38). John shows Christ as divine--the Word made flesh (John 1:14), the Son of God (John 20:31) and the manifestation of the Father (John 14:9)--the means by which the foundation for the righteous character he revealed was provided.

The four Gospel records, therefore, are like the four standards of Israel, exhibiting the Lord in four different aspects. The four accounts show that he rules (Matthew--the Lion), because he served (Mark--the Ox), and though he was flesh (Luke--the Man), he conquered through the spirit (John--the Eagle).

At another level, the four Gospel accounts can be distinguished by their intended readers. Matthew wrote for a Jewish audience, Mark wrote for Roman readers, Luke crafted his account for the Greek mind and John appears to have written for all believers. It is significant that these groups represent major peoples in the cosmopolitan world of the first century Mediterranean: the Gospel is for everyone, regardless of background.

Thus the four accounts of Christ's life, though not in themselves complete (see John 21:25), provide a much fuller and more balanced presentation of the Lord than would be possible in a single account. Yet at the same time, the accounts compliment, rather than contradict, each other. All this is a testimony to an important feature of inspiration. Together, the four Gospel accounts portray the Lord Jesus Christ from four perspectives as the image of God.

Acts of The Apostles

Author: Luke (see introduction to Luke)

Period: 30-60 A.D.

Summary: Acts records the foundation and activities of the first century church. It illustrates the struggles and problems that they faced as well as their solutions to overcoming the problems. It describes the power that was given to a select number of men by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost to promote the Gospel. The book also traces the missionary journeys of Paul as he helped establish Christian congregations throughout Asia Minor and Rome.

THE WITNESS TO CHRIST

Key Verse: "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." Acts 1:8

Breakdown:

Preparation for preaching: Chapter 1:1 - 2:4

In Jerusalem: Chapter 2:5 - 7:60

In Judea and Samaria: Chapter 8:1-25

The uttermost parts of the earth: Chapter 8:26 - 28:3

Romans

Author: The Apostle Paul. Paul was first known as Saul (Hebrew Sha'ul; "appointed"), but later took the Roman name Paul (Latin Paulus), which means "little."

Period: 57 A.D.

Summary: Written to the congregation at Rome by the Apostle Paul, who was instructed by the Lord Jesus Christ to be a minister to the Gentiles. Paul begins the letter by showing how all men are sinners in the eyes of God and therefore worthy of death. However, Paul explains that Jesus Christ was the "second Adam" in whom no sin was found, and is able to provide an acceptable covering for men's sin if they accept all that Jesus said and follow after him in their own lives. With this in mind, Paul explains the distinction between the Jews and the Gentiles and the final outcome of all things when the Lord Jesus returns to the earth to establish the Kingdom of God.

CHRIST: THE POWER OF GOD TO US

Key Verses: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. For in it is the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, 'The just shall live by faith.'" Romans 1:16-17

Breakdown:

Introduction: Chapter 1:1-15

Doctrinal: how the Gospel relates to salvation: Chapter 1:16 - 8:39

National: how the Gospel relates to Israel: Chapter 9:1-11:36

Practical: how the Gospel relates to conduct: Chapter 12:1 - 15:13

Epilogue: personal matters: Chapter 15:14 -16:27

1 Corinthians

Author: Paul

Period: Early 55 A.D.

Summary: Written to the congregation at Corinth by the apostle Paul. He deals with a series of problems, including the presence of sin and false teaching in the newly formed church. Most members were from a promiscuous pagan background and were exhorted to put away their previous ways. There also were difficulties with those who tried to mix the teachings of Christ with the Levitical law.

CHRIST: THE WISDOM OF GOD TO US

Key Verses: "For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of no effect." 1 Corinthians 1:17

". . . we preach Christ crucified . . . to them who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God." 1 Corinthians 1:23-24

Breakdown:

Introduction: Chapter 1:1-9

Reproof: concerning schisms: Chapter 1:10 - 4:21

Correction: concerning inconsistencies: Chapter 5:1 - 6:20

Instruction: answers to problems: Chapter 7:1 -15:58

General matters: Chapter 16:1-24

2 Corinthians

Author: Paul

Period: Late 55 A.D.

Summary: This second letter to the congregation at Corinth was also penned by Paul. It was written after he made a "painful" and unsuccessful visit to the small church in an attempt to give instruction and guidance on several divisive issues. Upon learning that a majority of members had repented, he wrote the letter we now call 2 Corinthians. It gives encouragement, yet teaches of the suffering that each member must face for the Lord Jesus' sake. Paul concludes by surmising that it is when he is weakest that God is able to work through him most powerfully. This letter was in all likelihood written about six months after the letter we now call 1 Corinthians.

CHRIST: THE COMFORT OF GOD TO US

Key Verses: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, Who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Breakdown:

Introduction: the voice of experience: Chapter 1:1-11

Explanation: Paul the minister: Chapter 1:12 - 5:21

  • Concerning his motives: 1:12- 2:11
  • Concerning the ministry: 2:12 - 5:21

Exhortation: Paul the father: Chapter 6:1 - 9:15

  • Concerning things spiritual: 6:1 - 7:16
  • Concerning things material: 8:1 - 9:15

Vindication: Paul the apostle: Chapter 10:1 -12:18

  • The critics and their pretensions: 10:1 - 11:15
  • The apostle and his credentials: 11:16 - 12:18

Conclusion: future intentions: Chapter 12:19 -13:14

Galatians

Author: Paul

Period: Written sometime from 48 to 57 A.D.

Summary: The letter to the congregations in Galatia focuses on the divisions that Jewish-Christians were causing among new Gentile converts. These Judaizers were trying to convince the Gentiles that first, Paul's authority was given by men and not by God, and second, that they had to be circumcised and to keep the ritual law in order to be saved. Paul argues that both Jew and Gentile alike enjoy in Christ complete salvation. They are justified, adopted, renewed and made heirs according to the promises of the Abrahamic covenant. Reliance on the Law was only a bondage to death and could not produce life-giving freedom, a freedom only available in Christ. Paul was showing that all legalistic variations of the Gospel are perversions of it and should be exposed as such.

CHRIST: THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD FOR US

Key Verses: ". . . if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain." Galatians 2:21

". . . Abraham 'believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.'" Galatians 3:6

". . . if there had been a law given which could have given life, truly righteousness would have been by the law." Galatians 3:21

"We ... wait for the hope of righteousness by faith." Galatians 5:5

Breakdown:

Introduction and salutation: Chapter 1:1-5

The purpose of the epistle: Chapter 1:6-9

Narration: Personal details illustrating the authenticity of Paul's account of the gospel: Chapter 1:10- 2:21

Exposition: doctrinal--a declaration of the Gospel: Chapter 3:1 - 4:31

  • Justification by faith: 3:1-14
  • Faith's relation to the Law: 3:15-29
  • Relationship of faith to the Law illustrated: 4:1-31

Exhortation: practical--the demands of the Gospel: Chapter 5:1 - 6:10

  • The call to liberty: 5:1-12
  • Liberty in reality: 5:13-26
  • Freedom in Christ must be mutually enjoyed: 6:1-10

Concluding review: Chapter 6:11-18

Ephesians

Author: Paul

Period: c.60 A.D.

Summary: This letter is divided into two sections. The first outlines the blessings and spiritual riches in Christ; the second the walk in imitation of Christ. The intent is to illustrate the abundance of spiritual riches that Christ himself received or would receive, namely grace, glory, mercy and immortality, and to foster the incentive to walk as Christ himself did. By doing so, the believer would learn to walk worthy of his vocation; not as Gentiles who do not know God, but as children of light who show forth love and walk correctly in a righteous lifestyle until the return of the Lord Jesus. It is thought that this letter was one of several letters that were circulated to the different congregations in Asia.

CHRIST: THE RICHES OF GOD TO US

Key Verses: ". . . the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places." Ephesians 1:18-20

Breakdown:

Our wealth in Christ: Chapter 1 - 3:21

Our walk in Christ: Chapter 4:1- 6:20

Philippians

Author: Paul

Period: c.61 A.D.

Summary: The tone of this letter is more personal in nature than most of Paul's letters. Paul outlines his own beliefs and explains that believers must not be self-centred in their own lives. Each believer must look to Christ for an example of self-sacrifice and unity in purpose. Paul further contrasts enemies of the cross with those who are friends of the Lord Jesus and the cross. It is thought that Paul wrote this epistle while he was in prison at Rome.

CHRIST: THE SUFFICIENCY OF GOD TO US

Key Verses: "But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. But indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ . . ." Philippians 3:7-8

"Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."Philippians 3:13-14

Breakdown:

Christ our life: Chapter 1:1-30

Christ our mind: Chapter 2:1-30

Christ our goal: Chapter 3:1 - 4:1

Christ our strength: Chapter 4:2-23

Colossians

Author: Paul

Period: c.60 A.D.

Summary: The letter to the congregation at Colossi was written in response to heresy and Judaizing that had been brought to Paul's attention. The major errors that had crept into the church were 1) the exaltation of angels or other "elemental spirits," 2) the emphasis on ascetic or liturgical practices thought to produce spirituality and, 3) those in error claimed a special knowledge beyond that found in the Gospel of Christ. Paul states that these are philosophies based on human knowledge and tradition and are therefore worthless. He teaches love, humility, submission to authority and finally prayer to establish a believer in the wisdom of God.

CHRIST THE FULLNESS OF GOD TO US

Key Verses: "Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power." Colossians 2:8-10

Breakdown:

Introduction: Chapter 1:1-14

Doctrinal--'That you may be filled:' Chapter 1:15 - 2:23

Practical--'Seek those things above:' Chapter 3:1 - 4:6

Personal--'That you may know our estate:' Chapter 4:7-18

1&2 Thessalonians

Author: Paul

Period: c.51-52 A.D.

Summary: The main focus in these letters is the state of those who have died in Christ. It deals with their resurrection and the future of the Kingdom of God. Paul appears to have written these letters due to the large amount of newly baptized believers in Thessalonica. He was forced out of the city by jealous Jews. The occurrence of the statement "you know" in the letters indicates that the teachings were begun but were interrupted and therefore Paul wishes to solidify the subject matter. Further encouragement is given in the second letter regarding the punishment of those wicked men who were persecuting them.

1 THESSALONIANS

CHRIST AS OUR HOPE

Key Verses: ". . . you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come." 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10

Breakdown:

Looking back: how they were called: Chapter 1:1 - 3:13

Looking on: how they should live: Chapter 4:1-18

Looking forward: watching and waiting: Chapter 5:1-28

2 THESSALONIANS

CHRIST AS OUR VICTORY

Key Verses: ". . . to give you who are troubled rest with us when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels . . . when He comes, in that Day, to be glorified in His saints and to be admired among all those who believe . . ." 2 Thessalonians 1:7,10

Breakdown:

Consolation from the fact of Christ's coming: Chapter 1:1-12

Caution: instruction on the time of Christ's coming: Chapter 2:1-17

Command: injunctions in view of Christ's coming: Chapter 3:1-18

1&2 Timothy

Author: Paul

Period: c.63-65, c.67 A.D

Summary: Both letters were written by Paul from Rome during his imprisonments. Paul gives Timothy encouragement and reminds him of the work at hand. He reveals his fears to Timothy of the dangers within the church and lends advice for godly conduct of all individuals. The two letters to Timothy, along with Paul's letter to Titus, are often called the Pastoral Epistles due to the nature of their material.

1 TIMOTHY

GUARD WHAT WAS COMMITTED TO YOUR TRUST

Key Verses: "This charge I commit unto you, son Timothy . . . that . . . you may wage a good warfare." 1 Timothy 1:18

"O Timothy! Guard what was committed to your trust." 1 Timothy 6:20

Breakdown:

Introduction: Chapter 1:1-20

Congregational conduct: Chapter 2:1 - 3:16

Congregational problems: Chapter 4:1-16

Personal admonition: Chapter 6:11-21

2 TIMOTHY

STIR UP THE GIFT OF GOD

Key Verses: "Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you . . ." 2 Timothy 1:6

". . . the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also." 2 Timothy 2:2

". . . perilous times will come." 2 Timothy 3:1

". . . the time of my departure is at hand." 2 Timothy 4:6

Breakdown:

Hold on to the charge: Chapter 1:1-18

Encourage others to take up the charge: Chapter 2:1-26

Guard the charge in the face of apathy: Chapter 3:1-17

Preach the charge in all seasons: Chapter 4:1-8

Paul's final words: Chapter 4:9-22

Titus

Author: Paul

Period: c.67 A.D

Summary: This letter was written by Paul from Rome to Titus, who was teaching the churches on the island of Crete. The letter provides Titus with instruction and advice for his conduct, as well as guidance for dealing with the believers in Crete.

WHAT A CHURCH MUST AIM FOR

Key Verse: ". . . set in order the things that are lacking."Titus 1:5

Breakdown:

An orderly church: Chapter 1:1-16

A sound church: Chapter 2:1-15

A practical church: Chapter 3:1-15

Philemon

Author: Paul

Period: c.60 A.D

Summary: In this letter Paul writes to Philemon whose slave, Onesimus, had run away to Rome where he met Paul and became a Christian. Paul sends him back to his rightful owner with his personal letter of recommendation to accept him back with love and charity.

REFRESH MY HEART IN THE LORD

Breakdown:

Responsibilities in Christ

Hebrews

Author: Probably Paul; others have suggested Barnabas or Apollos.

Period: Probably in the 60s A.D., but before A.D. 70.

Summary: This letter persuasively presents the distinctiveness of Jesus Christ as the Son of God. The letter is primarily written to Jewish Christians who were wavering between Judaism and Christianity. Its primary message is to prove that Jesus Christ was the fulfilment of Old Testament prophecy and symbol. With Christ as the fulfilment, there was no longer a need to make the animal sacrifices required under the Mosaic Law. Christ is the High Priest and mediator of all believers in all ages who look for the redemption of God.

CHRIST: THE NEW AND LIVING WAY

Key Verses: "Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:19-25

Breakdown:

Christ the Son: better than his predecessors: Chapter 1:1 - 7:28

Christ the sacrifice: confirming a better covenant: Chapter 8:1 -10:18

Christ and faith: the true and better way: Chapter 10:19 -13:25

Final words: Chapter 13:22-25

James

Author: James (the half-brother of Jesus, and leader of the Jerusalem council; see Acts15)

Period: c.43-50 AD

Summary: The letter of James contains practical information pertaining to every day life as a Christian. It is not directed at any church in particular, but rather to Jewish believers, revealing their responsibilities to the principles of the Law as manifested in Christ. It focuses on real faith and shows that there is a need to develop faith as an energizing power that finds its out-working in a changed life; therefore, the epistle dwells on practice and not doctrine.

FAITH IN ACTION

Key Verse: "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." James 2:26

Breakdown:

How faith can triumph over trials: Chapter 1:1-27

How faith can govern actions towards others: Chapter 2:1-26

How faith can discipline the tongue: Chapter 3:1-18

How faith can purify character: Chapter 4:1-17

How faith can create confidence in God: Chapter 5:1-20

1 Peter

Author: The Apostle Peter

Period: c.60 A.D.

Summary: This letter was written to Christians in Asia Minor to help establish a joyful hope in the face of coming persecution. Peter sternly warns that persecution would come and that each individual must stand fast against it. He also illustrates man's relation to God as well as to mankind.

TRIUMPH IN TRIBULATION

Breakdown:

Introduction: Chapter 1:1-2

The call and what it involves: Chapter 1:3 - 2:10

The pilgrim life and how to live it: Chapter 2:11 - 4:11

The fiery trial and how to bear it: Chapter 4:12 - 5:11

Final words: Chapter 5:12-14

2 Peter

Author: Peter

Period: c.65-68 A.D.

Summary: The theme of this letter is true knowledge. The newly formed church was threatened by false teachers and therefore Peter exhorts the Christians to be aware of this danger. Peter explains that false teachers had crept in and were secretly subverting the true doctrine of the Gospel.

THE TRUE KNOWLEDGE AND THE SURE HOPE

Breakdown:

Divine revelation: antidote to moral corruption: Chapter 1:1-21

Divine revelation: antidote to doctrinal corruption: Chapter 2:1-22

Divine revelation: antidote to political corruption: Chapter 3:1-18

1,2&3 John

Author: The Apostle John

Period: c.85 -100 A.D.

Summary: This letter was written to a community that faced an early form of Gnostic heresy. John teaches how to walk in the light and also to keep in their remembrance the sacrifice that the Lord Jesus Christ made for them.

THE TRUTH AND THE CHURCH

Breakdown:

Introduction: why the epistle was written: Chapter 1:1-4

God is light: Chapter 1:5- 2:29

God is love: Chapter 3:1 - 4:21

God is life: Chapter 5:1-21

2John

Author: John

Period: c .85 -100 A.D.

Summary: The letter is addressed to "an elect lady" who is advised to have minimal fellowship with unbelievers. The ideas of love, truth, and obedience are emphasized.

THE TRUTH AND THE HOME

Breakdown:

Introduction: Verses 1-4

Exposition--love defined: Verses 5-6

Exhortation: Verses 7-9

Application--false charity to be avoided: Verses 10-11

Information: Verses 12-13

3 John

Author: John

Period: c .85 -100 A.D

Summary: This letter commends the believer Gaius for his piety and charity by allowing Christian teachers use of his home and financial means. He is urged to receive only good men who were known by their works and to shun evil men.

THE TRUTH AND THE INDIVIDUAL

Breakdown:

Gaius: sincere, dedicated, beloved: Verses 1-8

Diotrephes: domineering, self-assertive, arrogant: Verses 9-11

Demetrius: of good repute to all: Verse 12

Last words from John: Verses 13-14

Jude

Author: Either Judas the half-brother of Jesus or Judas the apostle (not Iscariot).

Period: c.65 - 80 A.D

Summary: The primary message Jude is trying to relate is the danger of the false teachers who have "slipped in" unawares by the newly converted Christians. Jude further outlines the past judgments upon evil men who forsook the Word of God and perverted it into the traditions of men.

CONTENDING EARNESTLY FOR THE FAITH

Breakdown:

Introduction: Verses 1-2

The need to contend--apostate teachers: Verses 3-16

The way to contend--available resources: Verses 17-25

Revelation

Author: The Apostle John

Time: c.95 A.D

Summary: The book of Revelation, also called the Apocalypse, is the final book of the New Testament and the Bible as a whole. John, one of the apostles, is given the Revelation of Jesus Christ pertaining to the events of Christ's return and the establishment of the Kingdom of God. The vision is highly symbolic and signifies the apostasy of the church as well as the judgments of those who are held accountable.

THE UNVEILING OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST

Key Verse: "The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants --things which must shortly take place. And He sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John." Revelation 1:1

Breakdown:

Jesus Christ and the redeemed: Chapter 1:1-20

Jesus Christ and the Church: Chapter 2:1 - 3:22

Jesus Christ and the Kingdom: Chapter 4:1 - 22:21


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