INT

Famous motif seen in Mark?

Messianic secret

What are central concerns in the Revelation and what do they tell us about circumstances of Christian community?

The Book of Revelation is strikingly different from the rest of the New Testament. It is populated by winged and wild creatures, locust plagues, and seven-headed beasts. Revelation is filled with obscure and fantastic symbolism, and it teems with mystical references. However, it lacks any real internal structure. Unlike the other New Testament books, which tend to mix narrative with sermon-style preaching, Revelation is essentially a long, uninterrupted record of a mystical vision, offering little interpretation for its intricate symbols. Revelation has been read for thousands of years as a code that, properly interpreted, can reveal the secrets of history and the end of the world. The numbers and symbols in Revelation have been read into any number of traumatic events in ancient and modern history. Revelation was a product of this time of early growth and confusion, but also of a long Jewish tradition of apocalyptic literature. The Old Testament books of Ezekiel and Zechariah contain long apocalyptic segments. The most famous Old Testament apocalypse, the Book of Daniel, was written circa 165 b.c. The apocalyptic genre became more popular after 70 a.d., when the apocryphal apocalypses, 2 Baruch and 4 Ezra, were written in response to the destruction of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem by Roman armies. There is enough apocalyptic literature that it can be classified as a genre of its own, with its own particular characteristics. Some of these common features are revelations made to a human emissary through a supernatural agency, heavy symbolism, numerology with obscure significance, extravagant imagery, and concern about a cataclysmic day of judgment or the end of the world. Apocalyptic literature tends to take a deterministic view of history—that is, apocalypses are generally driven by the belief that history inexorably follows a set path ordained by God. All of these characteristics of the apocalyptic genre are present in Revelation. It is an example of apocalyptic literature which is Greek for revelation, an unveiling or unfolding of things not previously known and is characterized by cataclysm events. Written during times of persecution- judgement is imminent- deliberate in the way that makes it seem as though the end is near despite Christ already dying for the salvation of humankind. People have fear and terror but also still believe that God will save them. Jezebel and the Great Heriot symbolizes Babylon - used as a symbol for suppressors are the Romans. Stories are told that are expressing what will happen at the end of time- hold fast to your faith and reject Paganism. Son of man symbol seen often in here. The speeches at the end with heavenly symbols and colors as well. Given the vision of Heaven → Earth→ Hell, symbols of animals who further have evangelical hearing. There are four plagues in this chapter. Revelation and Ezekiel have many common themes.

Who is Peter

. Peter serves as the leader of the apostles and the small congregation of the faithful in Jerusalem.

Who's the writer of 1, 2, and 3 John? What are the concerns of John 1?

1 John- first John does not follow Greco- Roman literary- significant portion of Johannine community is gone and remaining members are sad in their departure, alternates between a tone that is pastoral and polemical. Follows similar structure to Gospel of John, each part begins with the phrase "this is the message". Early Christian traditions identified this work as a letter of John the apostle because it resembles his gospel, work of Johannine Christianity(- the purpose of the letter is to combat certain ideas, specifically about Jesus- author affirms that authentic Christian love, ethics and faith that only take place within historical revelation and sacrifice of of Jesus Christ- the straightforward language is also repetitious. General Epistle (Apostolic Letter). It is written by the Disciple/Apostle John around 85-95 A.D. probably from Ephesus. The key personalities are the Apostles Peter and Paul. Its purpose was to warn about the increasing threat of false teachings and to reassure Christians of their faith and love in Jesus Christ. It was written to combat false teachings that had to do with the denial that Jesus had a genuine human body (1:1). This Gnostic view of matter as being evil led to two responses, asceticism or licentiousness. He very clearly writes to give the true tests of a true Christian. These tests also contradicted the Gnostic licentious approach to Christianity. He gives several means to measure the reality of one's conversion experience. Chapters 1-2, John reassures believers explaining, "God is Light and in Him is no darkness at all" (1:5). He wrote that if sins were confessed He would cleanse them, because Jesus is the propitiation for "the whole world" (2:2). Because John was aware of the continuing attack of false teachings, he then urged believers not to love and follow after the world because it was not of the Father, and would ultimately pass away. Discernment is necessary to thwart the constant attacks of heresy. In chapters 3-4, He teaches about the love of God and that through His love He sent Jesus, "To destroy the works of the devil" (3:8). Therefore, believers should love each other not only with words but also, "in deed and truth" (3:18), as Jesus commanded. Chapter 5, John exhorts Christians to live by faith because through our faith in Christ we overcome the wickedness of the world. In addition, John writes one of the most powerful and assuring statements concerning the work of Jesus on the cross, "These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life" (vs. 13). John wanted all believers to know 100%, that because of their faith and trust in Jesus Christ they would spend all of eternity with Him.

Who is Matthias?

13th apostle, chosen by vote after Judas' suicide

What are the chief concerns of 2 and 3 John?

2 John- 2 John provides the reader with an example of a typical Hellenistic letter- demonstrates its Christian origin by recipients and himself by invoking "grace, mercy and peace", the author hints at what made him want to write the letter- "truth and love". Reiterates the commandment of "love one another". These deceivers must be rejected by members of the community if they encounter them so they do not become contaminated by false teachings and thinkings. This author forbids his listeners to offer them hospitality of their homes- they brought a reverse kind of evangelization and preach a deficient and dangerous form of Christianity. Members of John's community, such as the Twelve of Matthew, they must protect their peace and shake off others. In each letter the writer calls himself the Presbyter- writes to the chosen Lady and to her children who he loves, stresses the commandment of love one another. Many deceivers have gone out in the world- who don't recognize Jesus as have been living in the flesh 3 John- The situation the reader encounters in John 3 seems to be the opposite of John 2, where the Presbyter urges the letter's recipients to reject anyone who does believe Jesus had become human flesh and to not greet/ receive him. In 3 John the Presbyter is on the receiving end of the very practice he recommends to the audience of 2 John. The Third letter of John preserves. It is from the Presbyter to Gaius. → it gives him great joy to hear that his children are walking in truth, says he wrote to the Church but Diotrephes did not acknowledge him so he is coming to draw attention to him- says do not imitate evil but imitate good - whoever does evil has never seen God, he keeps it short because he wishes to speak about this in person one day instead of over pen and ink. What's the big idea→ Troubles had come to the church in Asia. Diotrephes had taken control of one of the churches there and used his power to ban certain travelling missionaries from coming to the church at all. At one point, the church had seen something of a leadership quality in him and had placed him in charge, but now in the top spot, the power had gone to his head. He refused to welcome those traveling ministers of the gospel to preach and take rest with his church. And even worse, upon receiving an earlier correction from John, Diotrephes refused to listen (3 John 1:9). This troubling situation prompted John to write to Gaius, commending the believers for holding fast to the truth and doing so with a loving attitude. These Christians strove to make the gospel a reality in their lives through the way they treated one another. And John, in response to this good report about the behavior of these "rank and file" Christians, encouraged them to continue to love and support those visiting believers who gave of themselves and ministered in the churches of Asia.

How many NT epistles are attributed to Paul and how many scholars agree that these were actually written by Paul?

2/3rds are written by Paul, scholars disagree on but there are 7 they all agree on

How many books and letters are the in the NT?

21 letters, 27 books

Why is Acts significant

Acts is the story of the church's turn away from Jerusalem and toward Antioch, Ephesus, and Rome. Acts is filled with stories and speeches, but the dramatic arc that connects all of Acts of the Apostles is the church's move, driven by Paul, toward a split with Judaism and an emphasis on converting Gentiles. It is in that move that Christianity becomes its own distinct religion. Jesus and his followers consider themselves Jews, and Jesus's message and teachings are the fulfillment of Jewish prophecies. It is evident from the first chapters of Acts that, in the first years after Jesus's ascension, the apostles and their followers continued to consider themselves Jews, and to follow Jewish law.

Atonement

Amends, reparation, or expiation made from wrong or injury.

Messiah

Anointed one

What does it mean to have ethatological belief/ sensibility and for what do Christians hope?

Belief in God the Father, Jesus Christ as the Son of God, and the Holy Spirit. The death, descent into hell, resurrection and ascension of Christ. The holiness of the Church and the communion of saints. Christ's second coming, the Day of Judgement and salvation of the faithful.

What are features of apocalyptic literature?

Apocalyptic literature is a genre of prophetical writing that developed in post-Exilic Jewish culture and was popular among millennialist early Christians. ... As a genre, apocalyptic literature details the authors' visions of the end times as revealed by an angel or other heavenly messenger.In the transition from Jewish literature to that of early Christianity, there is a continuation of the tradition of apocalyptic prophecy. Christianity preserved the Jewish apocalyptic tradition, as Judaism developed into Rabbinism and gave it a Christian character by a systematic process of interpolation. Christianity cultivated this form of literature and made it the vehicle of its own ideas. Christianity saw itself as the spiritual representative of what was true in prophecy and apocalyptic.

Key features and elements in Matthew?

Birth narrative, the Sermons, John the Baptist is more prominent, Jesus gives the Lord prayer to others which emphasizes relationship with Yahweh, transfiguration of Jesus, Adds genealogy and birth narrative, a lot of attention to OT, Jesus portrayed as teacher

Signs seen in Gospel of John?

Gospel narrative contains signs and deeds which include water, bread of life, women at the well, curing of a paralytic, walking on water, sign of young men being born blind

who are the hellenists

Hellenists, Christians who were born Jewish but who have a Greek cultural background.

Describe the miracle of the tongues

In Acts, During the year of Jesus's death and resurrection, the disciples are gathered for Pentecost, a religious holiday celebrating the grain harvest. The Holy Spirit descends upon them. As a result of the Holy Spirit's presence, they begin speaking other languages. Peter delivers a sermon explaining the miracle. He says that the gift of tongues is given to prophets. Peter summarizes the life, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus. He gives scriptural proof that Jesus is the Messiah, the savior whom God promises in the Old Testament to send to save Jews from their adversity. Responding to Peter's sermon, 3,000 people are baptized into the Christian community—an idealized, thriving community characterized by prayer, brotherhood, common ownership, and sharing.

Some of Peters miracles in Acts

In a brief interlude, Acts recounts the miracles and speeches of Peter. Traveling to the coast, Peter cures a paralytic at Lydda and revives a woman at Joppa. In Caesarea, he says that he has received a message from God telling him that he "should not call anyone profane or unclean" (10:28). He deduces that he may associate with Gentiles, as "God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him" (10:34). He therefore dines with the family of a Roman centurion named Cornelius, and they become the first Gentiles baptized by Peter. The church continues to shift its emphasis toward welcoming the Gentiles. Some of those who fled persecutions in Jerusalem arrive at the Syrian city of Antioch, where they begin to preach to the Greeks. Saul and Barnabas are among these people. Judea, meanwhile, is under the rule of King Herod Agrippa, who ruled from 41 to 44 a.d. Herod Agrippa introduces institutional persecution against the Christians and arrests Peter, who is miraculously freed from jail by an angel.

What is the incarnation and name a specific moment of the NT that explains incarceration with theological precision?

Incarnation, central Christian doctrine that God became flesh, that God assumed a human nature and became a man in the form of Jesus Christ, the Son of God and the second person of the Trinity. A specific moment it is emphasized is in the John which stress The situation the reader encounters in John 3 seems to be the opposite of John 2, where the Presbyter urges the letter's recipients to reject anyone who does believe Jesus had become human flesh and to not greet/ receive him.

Who are the Hebrews

Israelites and are called to be gods "chosen" people

Key Personalities

Jesus, 12 Disciples, Mary Madeline, John the Baptist, Lazarus, his sisters Mary and Martha, Jewish religious leaders and Pilate.

What are the authors chief concerns/ themes in 1 Timothy?

It was written to give encouragement and leadership guidelines to a young pastor named Timothy at the church in Ephesus. Chapter 1 begins with a greeting to Timothy, then quickly turns to a warning against false teachings, and an emphasis on correct beliefs. Paul encourages him to "fight the good fight" (vs. 18). In chapters 2-4, Paul declares that God desires salvation for everyone, "Who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth" (2:4). Paul then teaches that, "For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus"(2:5). Next, Paul lays some important guidelines and principles for church leadership. He taught the controversial subject of women in the church and what the two offices of leadership in the church were to be, the Overseer and the Deacon. He even taught some of the practices that should be carried out in the church such as, "give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching" (4:13). Chapter 5-6, Paul gives guidelines for relationships within the church as he explains how to deal with discipline and care for widows. He gives advice of how to minister and lays more guidelines for the wealthy instructing them to be generous. "Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy" (6:17)."Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen." (1:17)

James Summary

James- The book of James is a General Epistle (Apostolic Letter). James the half-brother of Jesus wrote it approximately 48-49 A.D. It was likely the first New Testament book (letter) to be written. The key personalities of this book are James and Persecuted Christians. James wrote this book to Jewish believers to encourage them to endure and live bold Christian lives. James is a book about practical Christian living that reflects a genuine faith that transforms lives. In many ways, it is similar to the OT book of Proverbs.In chapter 1, James teaches believers to test their faith and "prove yourselves doers of the word" (1:22). James encourages believers to put their faith into action, and to be servants of Jesus Christ. Chapters 2-3, James describes the relationship between faith and works. He teaches that a person of faith without works demonstrates useless faith. What good is a person's faith if they don't present it to the world? A believer's good works are evidence of their faith in Jesus Christ. He also teaches that everyone is a sinner and that if one of the 10 Commandments are broken, than that person is guilty of breaking every one of them, "For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of all" (2:10).In Chapters 4-5, James gives wise instruction to believers. He said, "Submit to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you" (4:7). A faithful believer will desire to follow hard after God in service, obedience, and prayer. In the last chapter James stresses the weight and magnitude of prayer for every believer. He uses the word "Prayer" 7 times, signifying its importance. In the final verse of his book James expresses the magnitude of living faith in action saying: "My brethren, if any among you strays from the truth and one turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins." (5:19-20).

In what difficult situation does Paul find himself in during the writing of his epistle to the Phillipians?

Locked in prison

Key themes/ elements of Gospel of John?

Major assertions in the prologue, Christ is the incarnate word and asserts who Jesus is worshipping him as God -> Christians claim monotheism creates difficulties in relationships between God and Jesus, creates a trifold way (God, Son and Holy Spirit).

Gospel

Means "good news"

How is Jesus portrayed in Matthew?

New Moses, lawgiver, expected Messiah

What are Paul's' chief concerns in his epistle to the Corinthians?

Paul's letters to the Christians at Corinth address his concern over a pressing issue: the rampant immorality associated with the paganism of Corinth. This immorality had begun to infect the Corinthian church. Paul was deeply concerned for the spiritual health of the Corinthian church, which had been deprived of his guidance for several years. As a result, Paul corresponded at greater length with the Corinthian church than with any of the other communities that he established. Paul's purpose in writing this letter to the church in Corinth was to address and correct the immorality and divisions that had arisen among them. Chapters 1-4, Paul received reports of problems in the church in Corinth and therefore addresses their problems and disorders, "there are quarrels among you" (1:11). Paul asks believers to ''consider your calling'' (1:26-30). He then declares three times that God ''has chosen'' them and ''because of Him you are in Christ Jesus''. This truth is joyful and relieving to believers that God is in control and is the orchestrator of our lives. In chapters 5-11, Paul exposes all of the immorality that was occurring in the church at Corinth. These include sexual immorality, issues of marriage, and lawsuits with other believers. "Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God" (6:9). Paul warns believers to be careful how you live, "For you have been bought with a price" (vs 20),In chapters 12-14, he clears up some of the confusion about practices of worship. He corrects difficult doctrines that had caused divisions. Some of these differences were the role of women in worship, the use of spiritual gifts, and observing the Lord's Supper. "For God is not a God of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints"(14:33). Chapters 15-16 consist of Paul dealing with the topic of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is the topic that is, "off first importance" to Paul. It is here we find the most important information on planet Earth, the Gospel of Jesus Christ in verses 1-4. "Now I make known to you, brethren, the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received, in which also you stand, by which also you are saved, if you hold fast the word which I preached to you, unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures" (15:1-4).

Some overarching themes of the Paulin apostles as a whole?

Preach Christ to the Gentiles Convey God's plan for managing the church, he gives prayers to readers, answers questions, addresses issues, gives greetings, things to do and things to believe.

All themes of Pauline Epistles

Romans. Paul explains how the gospel works and how to respond. Paul wrote this letter before he had visited the Roman church. 1 Corinthians. In 55 A.D., Paul admonished the local church that he had founded in Corinth. 2 Corinthians. Come 56 A.D., the Corinthian church had escalated and then resolved their conflict with Paul. Second Corinthians is Paul's a letter of forgiveness and reconciliation. Galatians. Someone had misled the churches of Galatia—resubjecting them to the Law of Moses and devaluing God's grace. Paul writes the Galatians an aggressive letter to set them straight on their freedom in Christ.Philippians. Even though he's suffering in prison, Paul finds joy in Christ. He writes to the church at Philippi urging them to take on a Christlike attitude.

Saul

Saul is a Jewish leader who has been trying to wipe out the new community of Christians because he believes that they are trying to dismantle Jewish law. While traveling to persecute Christians, Saul is blinded by a light and hears the voice of Jesus asking, "Saul, Saul why do you persecute me?" (Acts 9:4). Saul then sets out to become the most relentless, brilliant, and bold missionary of Christianity that the church has ever known. He travels to the coast, performs miracles, preaches the Gospel, and converts Gentiles.

Why is Paul called the 13th apostle and the apostle to the Gentiles?

Saul is renamed Paul, he departs on a missionary journey Paul preaches to a Jewish congregation, telling his listeners about forgiveness of sins through faith in Jesus as the resurrected Messiah. Many listeners become converts, but many also contradict Paul, and the missionaries are expelled from the territory. At Iconium, too, they have some success until nonbelievers, including both Jews and Gentiles, drive them from town. At Lycaonia, Paul cures a cripple, and the local Gentiles take them for the pagan gods Zeus and Hermes before Paul is able to convince them otherwise. As usual, however, the missionaries are chased from town, and Paul is nearly stoned to death. The two make their way back to Antioch in Syria, preaching the whole way. Paul and Barnabas are strong supporters of expanding the church among Gentiles. Peter and James, leaders of the Jewish Christians in Jerusalem, decide in favor of Paul's perspective, arguing that they should preserve the community of believers and "not trouble those Gentiles who are turning to God" (15:19). Only a minimal adherence to the law is required of Christian Gentiles. The Holy Spirit urges him to travel to Jerusalem, where he himself expects to be persecuted and possibly killed. In Jerusalem, Paul meets with James and the church leaders, who are concerned that Paul appears to have been urging Christians not to follow Jewish law. They plan for Paul to make a public show of worship at the temple, to indicate that he continues to adhere to Jewish law. In the temple, however, Jews seize him, accusing him of profaning the temple and preaching against the law. Paul tells the crowd his personal history. He relates the stories of his past persecution of Christians, his miraculous vision of Christ, and his conversion to Christianity and mission to preach to the Gentiles.The crowd becomes outraged, and the Roman tribune seizes Paul and flogs him. The tribune then has him brought before the Jewish high court, the Sanhedrin, where Paul creates dissent by setting the two factions in the court, the Pharisees and the Sadducees, against each other. The tribune saves Paul from the ensuing riot, and, hearing of a Jewish plot against Paul's life, sends him for his own protection to Felix, the governor of Palestine, in Caesarea. At the trial in Caesarea, Paul professes to worship God and adhere to Jewish law. He claims that it is only because of his belief in the resurrection of the dead—a belief not shared by the Sadducees—that he is on trial. Hearing that Paul collects and distributes alms, Felix holds him in jail for two years, hoping for a bribe. After Felix's death, Paul is tried before the new governor, Festus. Paul appeals to Caesar's judgment, and Festus—who does not believe Paul guilty, but who wants to appease the Jews calling for his execution—resolves to send him to Caesar, in Rome. First, however, Paul is brought before Herod Agrippa, the Jewish puppet-king of Palestine. Again, Paul recounts the story of his vision of Jesus and conversion to Christianity, and argues that his missionary activity is merely a fulfillment of Jewish hopes and Old Testament prophecies. King Herod Agrippa is impressed, but Paul is sent to Rome. On the way to Rome, Paul's ship is wrecked, and through a series of sailing mishaps it takes months to arrive at Rome. Awaiting his hearing at Rome, Paul begins to spread the Gospel to the Roman Jews, who disbelieve him. He turns his emphasis again toward the Gentiles, and as Acts ends, Paul is in Rome, "teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance" (28:31).

How is gospel of Mark written?

Straightforward, doesn't embellish, Jesus proclaims this kingdom will be more than a Kingdom and has good news

How is Jesus portrayed in Mark?

Suffering Servant, humanity is emphasized by how much he prays also seen as healer, teacher

Appereance narratives

Talking about resurrection, shows how careful and accurate they were trying to be in telling story even though they knew people might disbelieve because women are in it they keep them in

Why are these referred to as the Catholic epistles?

The Catholic epistles (also called the universal epistles[citation needed] or general epistles[1]) are seven epistles of the New Testament. Listed in order of their appearance in the New Testament, the Catholic epistles are: James, Peter and John. The word Catholic in the term Catholic epistles has been a convention dating from the 4th century. At the time, that word simply meant 'general', and was not specifically tied to any denomination, for example, what would later become known as the Catholic Church. Nevertheless, to avoid the impression these letters are only recognised in Catholicism, alternative terms such as 'general epistles' or 'general missionary epistles' are used. In the historical context, the word Catholic probably signified that the letters were addressed to the general church, and not to specific, separate congregations or persons, as with the Pauline epistles. However, 2 John and 3 John appear to contradict this view,[1] because their addresses are respectively to the "elect lady", speculated by many to be the church itself, and to "Gaius", about whom there has been much speculation but little in the way of conclusive proof as to his identity.[citation needed] Some historians therefore think that the label Catholic was originally applied to just 1 John, and expanded to all other non-Pauline epistles later on.[1]

Who is the writer of 1 Peter and what are the main points and concerns?

The book of 1st Peter is a General Epistle (Apostolic Letter). It was written to all believers in general. The author is Peter who wrote it about 60 A.D. The key personalities are the Apostle Peter, Silas, and Mark. Its purpose was to encourage suffering Christians and to call them to personal holiness; Peter's central focus is persecution. Chapters 1-2, Peter addresses the issue that believers are to live a life of personal holiness as God's people, even during times of suffering and persecution. He teaches that all Christians are to expect suffering; it is normal and Scriptural for Christians to suffer persecution and even imprisonment and death. Peter explains that our salvation in Christ is secure and that He took our sin on the cross and, "for by His wounds you were healed" (2:24). In chapters 3-5, Peter explains that in living holy lives the believer is to, "sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence" (3:15). A part of living a holy life is obeying the commands of Christ and Peter claimed that we are obligated to preach the "Hope that is in you". He expounds that believers should not be surprised when persecution comes upon them, "be on the alert" because Satan is continuously, "seeking whom he may devour"(5:8). In addition, if the believer does suffer persecution, they are to glorify God and entrust their souls to Him.

Why is Timothy 1 referred to as a pastoral epistle?

The book of 1st Timothy is a Pastoral Epistle (letter from Paul to a church leader). The author is Paul who wrote it approximately 62 A.D. The key personalities are the Apostle Paul and Timothy. It was written to give encouragement and leadership guidelines to a young pastor named Timothy at the church in Ephesus. The pastoral epistles are three books of the canonical New Testament: the First Epistle to Timothy (1 Timothy) the Second Epistle to Timothy (2 Timothy), and the Epistle to Titus. They are presented as letters from Paul the Apostle to Timothy and to Titus.

Summary of Galatians

The book of Galatians is a Pauline Epistle (letter from Paul). It was written by the Apostle Paul about 49 A.D. prior to the Jerusalem Council which had taken place in 50 A.D. This quite possibly could have been Paul's first letter. The key personalities of this book are the Apostle Paul, Peter, Barnabas, Abraham, Titus, and false teachers. Paul writes this book to deal with the problem of circumcision and Jewish legalism toward Gentile believers. In chapters 1-2, Paul's gives his testimony about how he had received the authentic Gospel message. He warns that if anyone presents another Gospel message other than the one he was preaching, that person is "As we have said before, so I say again now, if any man is preaching to you a gospel contrary to what you received, he is to be accursed!" (1:9). Paul was speaking of the one true Gospel that he had received; Please read 1st Corinthians 15:1-4. Paul then declares that Christ now lives within him, and directs, and empowers him to live as Christ's ambassador and instrument: "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me" (2:2o). Chapters 3-5:12, Paul begins by declaring that salvation is through faith and trust in Jesus Christ "Alone", and cannot be obtained through the keeping of the Law. "Fou foolish Galatians! Who put you under a spell? Was not Jesus the Messiah clearly portrayed before your very eyes as having been crucified? I want to learn only one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by doing the works of the law or by believing what you heard? Are you so foolish? Having started out with the Spirit, are you now ending up with the flesh? (Galatians 3:1-3). The Law (10 Commandments) is our tutor to lead us to salvation in Jesus Christ, "the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith" (3:24). No one can obey the 10 Commandments. It is impossible. Every person has broken them; therefore, we can only attain salvation through trusting in our Savior Christ Jesus. Chapters 5:13-6, He teaches the Fruits of the Spirit and tells us to "walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh" (5:16). Good works does not save, but a Christian must have the desire to produce good fruit, obey God's Law and live a holy and righteous life in the eyes of God. Christians should live this redeemed life.

What are Pauls chief concerns and themes in his epistle to the Philippians?

The book of Philippians is a Prison Epistle (letter written while in prison). Paul wrote it about 62 A.D. as he anticipated his release from prison. They key personalities are the Apostle Paul, Timothy, Epaphroditus, Euodia, and Syntyche. It was written to show his appreciation and love to the Philippians in a thank-you letter for their continued help and support, and also to encourage their growth. Chapter 1, Paul writes about his sufferings and that through his imprisonment the Kingdom was increased. "Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel" (1:12). Christians are to surrender their lives in service to Christ Jesus. And what should Christians expect in this life for doing this? Suffering. Paul explains that there are two things granted by God for a believer. The first is to believe in Him and the other is to suffer, "For to you it has been granted for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, experiencing the same conflict which you saw in me, and now hear to be in me" (1:29-30). Jesus said, "Count the cost"... (Luke 14:25-33). Chapter 2, Paul explains the benefits of believers in unity with the "mind of Christ". He teaches a theological lesson about the humanity of Jesus Christ as He laid down His glory and became a perfect human man in order to rescue and restore mankind back to a relationship with God. Chapter 3, Paul expounds on the joys of a Christian and encourages the church to press forward with the Gospel. He displays his testimony when he said, "I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ" (3:8). Chapter 4, Paul again mentions joy in Christ as he encourages believers to rejoice in the Lord. It is important for the believer to be well grounded in prayer and thanksgiving. To offer praise and to give God thanks for the many provisions they are blessed with, "my God shall supply all your needs" (4:19).

Who is Stephen?

The first christian martyr Foremost among these Christian Hellenist leaders is Stephen. A controversy ensues between Stephen and some Jews, who accuse him of heresy before the Sanhedrin. Stephen's accusers testify that "[t]his man never stops saying things against the holy place and the law" (7:13). In front of the Sanhedrin, Stephen delivers a long speech detailing the history of Jewish leadership in the Bible, concluding with a damning accusation: "Yet the Most High does not dwell in houses made with human hands. . . . You stiff-necked people . . . you are forever opposing the Holy Spirit, just as your ancestors used to do" (7:48-51).Stephen is stoned to death, with the approval of a young man named Saul of Damascus, a vigorous persecutor of the Christians. Stephen is the first Christian martyr, a person who is killed as a result of defending the church

Brief description of Acts

The genre of the book of Acts is Narrative History with several Sermons. Luke, the author of the Gospel of Luke, was a doctor and Gentile. He wrote this book circa 60-62 A.D. It is Luke's sequel to the Gospel of Luke. It is titled "Acts" to emphasize that this book records the "Acts of the Apostles through the work of the Holy Spirit". The key personalities of Acts are Peter, Paul, John, James, Stephen, Barnabas, Timothy, Lydia, Silas, and Apollos.

Discipleship

The life of following Jesus Christ. The word disciple comes from a Latin word that means "learner".

passion narratives

The name for the four separate accounts of the Passion of Christ. The passion narratives of the Synoptic Gospels follow a general literary and thematic plan. The passion narrative of John's Gospel provides an independent version- help readers understand who he is and what happens during the resurrection

Evangelization

The proclamation of the Good News of Jesus Christ through words and witness.

What are some key features in Mark?

Themes of Jesus over Satan, Gods imperial rule is established, who are people- people say "I am", discipleship, hope and resurrection. Jesus continues to doubt who he is, the theme of the Messianic secret- the Romans spill this secret, blasphemy of Jesus is one sin that cannot be given

Simon Peter

Who recognizes that Jesus is the Messiah and says to him, "Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man?"

Historical/ cultural context of John

Written around 80-90 AD, Gospel of John recounts things in a different order than other 3 gospels,

Adelphous

greek for close family members

what are Paul's main concerns in Romans letter?

he book of Romans is a Pauline Epistle (letter from Paul). The Apostle Paul wrote it roughly about 56-57 A.D. The key personalities in the book of Romans are the Apostle Paul, and Phoebe who delivered this letter. Paul wrote the letter to the believers in Rome, hence the name "Romans". He wrote it to give them a concrete theological foundation on which to construct their faith and to live for and serve God effectively. The book of Romans reveals the answers to important questions and supplies information on many topics, such as salvation, the sovereignty of God, judgment, spiritual growth, and the righteousness of God. Many scholars also describe it as The Gospel and the Righteousness of God, which can be received only by faith in the atoning death of Jesus Christ.The focus of the "righteousness of God" is foundational throughout the book of Romans. In fact, it is threaded through every section of the basic outline of this epistle. Paul reiterates this so that the reader may realize that salvation cannot be attained through man's good deeds but only through faith in God's righteousness: "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes... For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith" (1:16-17). You cannot repair your relationship with God through your good deeds; this is only accomplished through faith in the perfect and finished work of Jesus Christ, ut Romans is remarkably devoid of this kind of specificity, addressing broad questions of theology rather than specific questions of contemporary practice. Whereas other Pauline letters—2 Corinthians, for instance—are full of impassioned rhetoric and personal pleas, Romans is written in a solemn and restrained tone. Perhaps this solemnity can be explained by timing: Romans was the last written of the seven New Testament letters that modern scholars attribute to Paul, and has been seen as a summary of Paul's thought, composed as his career moved toward its conclusion. But it is also true that, as opposed to the Corinthian church, the Roman church was not founded by Paul himself. At the time when he wrote Romans, Paul had never visited Rome, although Chapter 16 of Romans does indicate that he had acquaintances there. Writing to a community largely composed of strangers, then, Paul may have felt compelled to use the restrained and magisterial declarations of Roman style, rather than the impassioned pleas and parental sternness that permeate his letters to the churches at Corinth.`

tradition

practices or beliefs associated with Christianity. These ecclesiastical traditions have more or less authority based on the nature of the practices or beliefs and on the group in question.

3 things in the gospel of John that aren't in other gospels?

signs, explain events and give theological explanation

Sotenology

study of salvation of mankind

scripture

the sacred writings of Christianity contained in the Bible.

What is the historical- cultural setting of Matthew?

written 70-100, a lot of Roman and Jewish

What is historical- cultural setting of Mark?

written between 66-70, happened around the time of destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. Approximately 4 decades to reflect and recently was a Roman- Jewish war. "Mark" is thought to be an interpreter of Peter, uses both oral and written tradition