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New Testament

Books that discuss the life of Jesus and letters from early church leaders- the official canon scripture of Christianity.

The New Testament is a collection of religious texts that form the second part of the Christian Bible, following the Tanach, or Hebrew Bible. It holds a central place in Christianity and is considered by believers to be the authoritative scripture that contains the teachings and life of Jesus Christ. Comprising 27 books, the New Testament has four main parts: the Gospels, the Acts of the Apostles, the Epistles, and the Book of Revelation.

The Gospels, namely Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, provide accounts of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus. These narratives serve as foundational sources for Christian doctrine and belief. The Acts of the Apostles follows the disciples of Jesus, particularly the apostles, as they spread the message of Christianity after his death and ascension.

The Epistles, are letters from early important figures such as Paul, Peter, James, and John, and form a significant portion of the New Testament. These letters address theological issues, ethical guidance, and practical matters within the early Christian communities.

The final book, Revelation, is an apocalyptic. It presents visions of the future, including the ultimate triumph of good over evil and the establishment of God's kingdom.

The New Testament emerged over a period of several decades in the first century CE. The process of canonization- determining which books would be included in the New Testament- occurred over time, with widespread agreement on the core texts beginning early, but solidifying by the 4th century. The New Testament has played a crucial role in shaping Christian theology, ethics, and worship, influencing the development of Christianity as a major world religion.

Structure of the New Testament

27 Total books - 7,958 Verses - 180,382 Words

The Gospels[]

The four stories of Jesus' life, and the Book of Acts, which covers immediately after Jesus' life.

#1.

Matthew
A comprehensive account of the life, teachings, and miracles of Jesus. It includes the Sermon on the Mount, parables, and focuses on demonstrating Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecies, concluding with his crucifixion, resurrection, and sending out the apostles.

#2.

Mark
Fast-paced narrative that emphasizes Jesus' actions and miracles. It portrays Jesus as a dynamic figure, revealing his teachings, healings, and the unfolding events of his ministry, leading ultimately to his crucifixion and resurrection.

#3.

Luke
A detailed and compassionate account of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. It showcases a particular emphasis on Jesus' concern for the marginalized and his universal message of salvation.

#4.

John
A unique account of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. It emphasizes religious themes, presenting Jesus as a divine being who came to Earth. It includes distinctive teachings and miracles not found in the other books.

#5.

Acts
Follows the early history of the Christian Church after the ascension of Jesus. It chronicles the apostles' missionary journeys, the spread of Christianity, and the establishment of Christian communities, highlighting key events like Pentecost and the conversion and travels of Paul.

The Writings of Paul[]

All of the Apostle Paul's letters that were included in the New Testament.

The Pauline Church Letters[]

Open letters written by the Apostle Paul to churches and whole groups of people.

#1.

Galatians
Paul writes about his key points regarding his own background, the theology of the Laws of Moses, how to know what to do and what is right.

#2.

1 Thessalonians
Paul's letter to the persecuted church in Thesselonica that goes into the apocalypse.

#3.

2 Thessalonians
Things don't get better for the Thessalonians, so Paul writes a letter about the endtimes and standing strong.

#4.

1 Corinthians
Paul calls out the church in Corinth and teaches how to be a good person.

#5.

2 Corinthians
Things escalated with Corinth, and Paul backs off a bit and makes ammends (kind of).

#6.

Romans
Paul's longest letter- a big summary of a lot of Christian theology in regards to Jewish theology.

#7.

Philippians
Suffering and freedom

#8.

Colossians
Divinity of Christ, law interpretation

#9.

Ephesians
General advice, rules, and "relationships"

The Pauline Pastoral Letters[]

Unlike the Church Letters, these are the few letters of Paul that were written to specific people with specific advice.

#1.

Philemon
Paul writes a letter to an old friend asking him to look after another friend while he's in jail.

#2.

1 Timothy
Written to Paul's pastor Timothy about the role of women, widows, elders, and slaves in the church.

#3.

2 Timothy
Paul writes a letter to Timothy urging him to come visit him on his deathbed, and includes a little bit of advice and theology along the way.

#4.

Titus
Paul writes a letter to Titus to guide Titus in becoming in a teacher.

The Canon Epistles[]

All letters officially included in the New Testament that weren't written by Paul.

#1.

Hebrews
A open letter that frames Jesus to a Jewish audience, going into Jesus' role as Eternal High Priest and Ultimate Sacrifice.

#2.

James
The brother of Jesus writes down a bunch of his own wisdom and teachings.

#3.

1 Peter
Be good people and make sure you're getting in trouble for the right reaons

#4.

2 Peter
Endtimes, threats and punishment if you don't

#5.

1 John
Letter from John building a few theological ideas about God.

#6.

2 John
A short letter warning about early heretics.

#7.

3 John
A short letter commending someone on their hospitality towards strangers, and shares some opinions about conflicts happening.

#8.

Jude
A short letter calling out people in the church. Has a lot of references to past people and events.

#9.

Revelation
The infamous book which describes the chaotic end of the world.