| Name |
Meaning |
Subdivisions |
Contents |
Comments |
| Gospels |
"Good News" |
A. Synoptic Gospels": |
Life of Jesus, emphasizing his last days. |
"Synoptic problem"--Relationship between sources: Mark and "Q" (common source used by Luke and Matthew). |
| a) Mark: |
Probably the earliest. Simple telling of story. |
| b) Luke: |
Written for Roman or non-Jewish audience, emphasis on universalism |
| c) Matthew: |
Cites Old Testament to prove that Jesus was the promised Messiah. |
| B. John: |
Theological tract built on biographical foundation. |
|
| Acts of the Apostles |
"Apostles" = Messengers |
Originally part of Gospel of Luke |
History of Church after Jesus; mission of Paul |
|
| Epistles |
Letters |
Usually identified by names of recipients |
Letters of Paul and early Church leaders on matters of belief and communal guidance |
El Greco: Paul
|
Paul's letters contain earliest references to Jesus (c. 60 C.E.) |
| Revelation |
Originally: "Apocalypse" (=hidden mystery, teaching) of John |
|
Catastrophic judgment in store for wicked, etc. |
Reflects background of persecution |
