Summary of the Books of the New Testament
BIBLE
The New Testament has 27 books and tells the story of Jesus, the apostles and the early church. It is subdivided into four groups: gospels, history, epistles and prophetic.
Matthew
The Gospel of Matthew, attributed to the apostle Matthew, was written primarily for a Jewish audience and presents Jesus as the promised Messiah of the Old Testament. The book highlights the fulfillment of messianic prophecies and the Kingdom of Heaven. It includes the famous Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus teaches about ethics, morality, and spirituality. Matthew narrates the life, ministry, miracles, death, and resurrection of Jesus, culminating in the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations.
Mark
The shortest of the Gospels, Mark presents a dynamic and straightforward narrative. It highlights Jesus as the Son of God and His ministry as a Servant. Mark emphasizes Jesus' miracles and authority, culminating in His death and resurrection. The book frequently uses the word "immediately," reflecting the urgency and intensity of Jesus' mission.
Luke
Luke, a Gentile physician and companion of Paul, wrote this Gospel for a non-Jewish audience, presenting Jesus as the Savior of all humanity. It offers a detailed and well-organized narrative, beginning with the birth of John the Baptist and the birth of Jesus, including unique accounts such as the Parable of the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son. Luke also highlights the role of the Holy Spirit and Jesus' compassion for the marginalized.
John
Written by the apostle John, this Gospel differs from the three Synoptic Gospels and focuses on the divinity of Jesus, presenting Him as the eternal Word of God who became flesh. John structures his account around miraculous signs and long discourses of Jesus, including statements like "I am the Light of the World" and "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life." He also emphasizes God's love and the purpose of Jesus' coming: to bring eternal life.
Acts of the Apostles
Written by Luke, Acts continues the Gospel narrative, describing Jesus' ascension, the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, and the expansion of the early Church. The book details Peter's ministry among the Jews and Paul's ministry among the Gentiles, highlighting the work of the Holy Spirit in spreading Christ's message. Acts serves as a bridge between the Gospels and the apostolic letters.
Romans
The letter to the Romans, written by the apostle Paul, is a theological exposition on salvation by grace through faith. Paul discusses topics such as universal sin, justification by faith, sanctification, and God's sovereignty. He also addresses the role of Israel and the practical life of Christians.
1 Corinthians
In 1 Corinthians, Paul writes to correct issues and divisions in the church at Corinth. He addresses matters such as immorality, lawsuits, marriage, the use of spiritual gifts, and the resurrection. Chapter 13, known as the "Love Chapter," is one of the most well-known passages in the Bible.
2 Corinthians
In this letter, Paul defends his ministry against criticism and encourages Christians to be generous in helping those in need. He also reflects on the nature of suffering and comfort in Christ, emphasizing God's power amid human weakness.
Galatians
Paul writes to the Galatians to counter the teaching that Gentiles must follow Jewish law to be saved. He defends justification by faith and emphasizes Christian freedom in Christ while reminding believers of their responsibility to live by the Spirit.
Ephesians
The letter to the Ephesians highlights God's plan for the unity of all things in Christ. Paul discusses grace, reconciliation between Jews and Gentiles, and the responsibilities of Christians in their personal and communal lives. Chapter 6 includes the famous metaphor of the "Armor of God."
Philippians
Written while Paul was in prison, Philippians is a letter of joy and gratitude. Paul exhorts Christians to have the mind of Christ, live in unity, and trust God in all circumstances. He emphasizes that true joy comes from a relationship with Christ.
Colossians
Paul writes to the Colossians to combat heresies threatening the church, exalting Christ's supremacy as Creator and Redeemer. He highlights the fullness of God in Christ and the transformed life that results from this truth.
1 Thessalonians
Paul encourages the Thessalonian Christians to remain steadfast in faith, live in holiness, and await Christ's return.
2 Thessalonians
In this second letter, Paul clarifies misunderstandings about the Day of the Lord and encourages Christians to persevere in faith and work, even amid persecution.
1 Timothy
Written to the young pastor Timothy, this letter provides guidance on church leadership, doctrine, and Christian living. Paul addresses qualifications for leaders and warns against false teachings.
2 Timothy
Considered Paul's last letter, it is a personal appeal to Timothy to remain faithful to the Gospel and persevere despite opposition. Paul reflects on his life and ministry, knowing that his death is near.
Titus
Paul instructs Titus, another young leader, on how to organize churches in Crete, emphasizing good leadership, sound teaching, and Christian conduct.
Philemon
In this brief letter, Paul asks Philemon to receive his runaway slave, Onesimus, who has now converted, not as a slave but as a brother in Christ.
Hebrews
The author of Hebrews is unknown. The book connects the Old and New Testaments, showing how Jesus is superior to the prophets, angels, priests, and sacrificial system. It highlights faith and encourages Christians to persevere.
James
James, the brother of Jesus, writes a practical letter on faith in action, addressing topics such as wisdom, controlling the tongue, and caring for the needy. He emphasizes that true faith produces good works.
1 Peter
Peter encourages persecuted Christians to remain faithful, highlighting Christ's example in suffering and the future glory that awaits them.
2 Peter
In this letter, Peter warns against false teachers and exhorts Christians to grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus, reminding them of His promised return.
1 John
John writes about God's love and the assurance of salvation. He refutes heresies and emphasizes that true followers of Christ live in love and obedience.
2 John
This brief letter warns against showing hospitality to false teachers and exhorts Christians to walk in truth and love.
3 John
John commends Gaius for his hospitality to missionaries and rebukes Diotrephes, who opposes apostolic authority.
Jude
The author of this book in the Bible is Jude, the brother of James and a servant of Jesus Christ, as he identifies himself in the book. Jude is traditionally considered the half-brother of Jesus Christ, according to the New Testament. Jude warns against false teachers corrupting the Christian faith, exhorting readers to contend for the faith and trust in God's ability to preserve them.
Revelation
Written by John, Revelation is a prophetic and symbolic book describing Christ's ultimate victory over evil, the judgment of the world, and the creation of a new heaven and a new earth. It offers hope to Christians, assuring them that God is in control and that suffering will end.