Pauline Introduction Menu
| Pauline Introduction | |||
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{400} | Introduction/Menu | |
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{401} | Background of Paul | |
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{402} | Conversion of Paul | |
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{403} | Distinctive Emphases of Paul’s Epistles | |
Pauline Epistles Menu
| Pauline Epistles | |||
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{404} | Romans | |
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{405} | First Corinthians | |
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{406} | Second Corinthians | |
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{407} | Galatians | |
The Epistles are generally divided into the Pauline Epistles and the Non-Pauline (General) Epistles. Paul’s epistles fall into two categories: nine epistles written to churches (Romans to 2 Thessalonians) and four pastoral and personal epistles (1 and 2 Timothy, Titus and Philemon). This is then followed by eight Hebrew Christian epistles (Hebrews to Jude). Naturally, many questions would arise as to the meaning and application of the gospel for Christians. Thus, the Epistles answer these questions, give the interpretation of the person and work of Christ, and apply the truth of the gospel to believers
SHORT SUMMARY
Pauline Epistles – 13 Books
ROMANS
Nature of Christ’s Work. A systematic examination of justification, sanctification, and glorification. Examines God’s plan for the Jews and the Gentiles.
1 CORINTHIANS
Various Church Disorders. This letter deals with factions and corrections due to immorality, lawsuits, and abuse of the Lord’s Supper. Also mentions idols, marriage, and the resurrection.
2 CORINTHIANS
Paul’s Vindication of His Apostleship. Paul’s defense of his apostolic position.
GALATIANS
By Grace, Never by Law. Paul refutes the errors of legalism and examines the proper place of grace in the Christian’s life.
EPHESIANS
The Unity of the Church. The believer’s position in Christ and information on Spiritual warfare.
PHILIPPIANS
A Missionary Epistle. Paul speaks of his imprisonment, his love for the Philippians. He exhorts them to godliness and warns them of legalism.
COLOSSIANS
The Deity of Jesus. Paul focuses on the preeminence of Jesus in creation, redemption, and godliness.
1 THESSALONIANS
Jesus’s Second Coming. Paul’s ministry to the Thessalonians. Teachings on purity and mention of the return of Christ.
2 THESSALONIANS
Jesus’s Second Coming. More about the Day of the Lord.
1 TIMOTHY
The Care for the Church. Instructions to Timothy on proper leadership and dealings with false teachers, the role of women, prayer, and requirements of elders and deacons.
2 TIMOTHY
Paul’s Final Words. A letter of encouragement to Timothy to be strong.
TITUS
The Churches of Crete. Paul left Titus in Crete to care for the churches there. Requirements for elders.
PHILEMON
Conversion of a Runaway Slave. A letter to the owner of a runaway slave. Paul appeals to Philemon to forgive Onesimus.
Sources outside the New Testament that mention Paul include:
• Clement of Rome‘s epistle to the Corinthians (late 1st/early 2nd century);
• Ignatius of Antioch‘s letter To the Romans (early 2nd century);
• Polycarp‘s letter to the Philippians (early 2nd century);
• The 2nd-century document Martyrdom of Polycarp.
