A group of friends and I delved into the New Testament, exploring the Gospels, Book of Acts, the New Testament Letters of the Apostles and General Letters (Epistles), and finally Revelation. We read through the New Testament using the chronological plan from the Bible Recap. Additonally, I found the Bible Project videos to offer helpful overviews, and the Faith Life Study Bible often provided rich commentary which aided in the study of the New Testament. This article delves into the undisputed letters or General Epistles of the New Testament.

In aiming for brevity, I’ve shared personal growth, key concepts, and takeaways. Please reach out with any insights or corrections as we continue learning together. I encourage you to dive into the Word, seek wisdom through prayer, find a church that upholds sound doctrine, and consult your pastor for guidance.

Chronologically, the Bible Recap places Hebrews between 1 and 2 Peter, with 2 Timothy and 2 Peter occurring after Hebrews. Meanwhile, we read through the book of James during the same timeframe as the Book of Acts. For the purpose of this article, I’ve detailed the books in the order of the biblical canon.

Summary of General Letters:

There are a total of 8 General Letters: Hebrews, James, 1 and 2 Peter, 1-3 John, and Jude. For historical context, these letters were written after the Ascension of Jesus, after the Acts of the Holy Spirit coming en masse, following the Acts of the Apostles and journeys of Paul. The New Testament Letters were going out to the churches, with the primary audience being the early Christian community, composed of Gentile converts and Messianic Jewish Christians (Jewish believers in Jesus as the prophesied Messiah), scattered throughout Rome. Together these early “Christians” (Christ Followers) made up the church body of believers. While the audience of the Epistles may have been the ealy church, the inspired Word of God remains relevant today. For an engaging overview of each book, check out General Epistles (From the Bible Project playlist).

• Hebrews: Explores the supremacy of Jesus and the new covenant.
• James: Discusses faith, works, and practical Christian living.
• 1 and 2 Peter: Addresses suffering, perseverance, and the return of Christ.
• 1-3 John: Focuses on love, obedience, and discernment.
• Jude: Issues warnings against false teacher / false doctrine, and also encourages standing firm in the faith.

The message of the General Epistles is meant to provide guidance and encouragement to the early Christian communities in living out their faith amidst challenges and uncertainties, while looking forward to the ultimate return of Christ.

Hebrews: Insights into Faith, the Supremacy of Christ, and the New Covenant

Hebrews offers profound insights into the supremacy of Christ, the nature of faith, and the significance of obedience. It encourages us to strive for spiritual maturity, distinguish between good and evil, and maintain our faith until the end. The book also explores the priesthood of Melchizedek as a prefiguration of Jesus Christ, who is our greatest High Priest in the order of Melchizedek, as well as the new and superior covenant. Emphasizing Jesus’ exceptional role, the importance of faith and endurance, and the transformative nature of the believer’s relationship with God under the New Covenant, Hebrews holds a unique place in New Testament canon.

Hebrews 1-2: The Supremacy of Jesus Christ

Hebrews portrays Jesus as the radiance of God’s glory, the exact imprint of His nature. He is superior to the angels, Melchizedek, and Moses. Like the Israelites wandering through the desert, we too are on a spiritual journey, often referred to as Israel 2.0. We can look to their example as a warning. If Jesus is greater than Moses, how much higher are the stakes for rebelling against Him? Jesus is our high priest and mediator with God. He is our only chance at a relationship with God. Jesus is God’s word, our hope, our high priest, and our eternal sacrifice.

Hebrews 3: The Co-Equality of the Trinity and Freewill

A commentary on Hebrews 3:6 in the FaithLife Study Bible brought up a question for me about the co-equality of the Trinity. The Greek word for “Christ” is a translation of the Hebrew “mashiach,” meaning “anointed one.” Hebrews presents a progression of titles: “Son” (1:2), then “Jesus” (2:9), then “Christ.” The author reveals the identity of the one superior to all except God the Father. Within the Trinity framework, the Son is not the Father, and the Father is not the Son, each having different roles. My question is: how are they co-equal if the Father is superior? Philippians 2:6 makes the case for equality, but Jesus emptied Himself, becoming “inferior” to the Father. Also, only the Father knows the day and hour of the Son’s return.

Hebrews speaks to the element of free will and our sin-bent human nature, which we must actively work against.

“Take care, brethren, that there not be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart that falls away from the living God. But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called ‘Today,’ so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold fast the beginning of our assurance firm until the end.” — Hebrews 3:12-14

Hebrews 4-5: Rest, Obedience, and Spiritual Maturity

The FaithLife Study Bible summary of Hebrews 4 offers valuable insights:

“Israel’s disobedience serves as a warning to fear God (v. 1), lest the present generation also fail to enter God’s rest. Fearing God means being obedient to His word (v. 12). The writer explains the meaning of ‘rest,’ still accessible to God’s people (Heb 4:4, 9–11).”

Chapter 5 reminds me of my spiritual journey. Sometimes I act as an infant on milk, reinvestigating elementary principles, while other times, as a mature believer, I chew on something solid.

“But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil.” — Hebrews 5:14

We need to be in the Word daily, reading, praying, and applying what we learn. Practice trains us to discern good from evil. We’re not meant to stay on milk!

Hebrews 6: The Question of Falling Away

Hebrews 6 raises the discussion on whether a believer can fall away. The FaithLife Study Bible offers this commentary:

“Similar to the wilderness generation, Christians are on a faith journey. The passage may be rhetorical or theoretical—demonstrating the worst possible scenario. This passage—the third warning about apostasy and unbelief (2:1–4; 3:12–13; 10:26–31; 12:25–29)—is highly debated. The discussion involves whether vv. 4–8 refers to people who had saving faith in Christ at one time but later rejected Christ. Jesus says that no one who truly believes will fall away (John 6:39–40). However, Hebrews 6:4–8 seems to imply it was possible for people to be truly saved and later reject that salvation. Other warnings in the New Testament acknowledge that some who appear to be saved might not be (Matt 7:21–23; 25:1–13; Luke 13:22–30). Only God knows who is truly saved (2 Tim 2:19).”

Saving faith is characterized by active involvement (Phil 2:12; Jude 1:21), and those transformed by the gospel will grow to reject sin as they become more like Christ (1 John 3:9). Warnings in Hebrews are aimed at people who persist in a life of sin while claiming to have faith in Christ. Such people can expect to hear Jesus’ statement from Matthew 7:23 that He never knew them. Like Old Testament Israel, they have been exposed to God’s reality and expectations but have confused outward obedience for internal transformation. Their knowledge of the truth leaves them without excuse for their unbelief (Rom 1:20).

Hebrews 7: The Priestly Order of Melchizedek and Animal Sacrifices

Melchizedek is described as the king of righteousness and peace, without genealogy, resembling the Son of Man, and a priest forever. His priesthood held superiority over the Levitical priesthood. But Jesus supersedes them all, coming in the order of Melchizedek as our high priest. According to the FaithLife Study Bible commentary, the priestly ordinances are no longer required because of Jesus’s priestly work. However, Hebrews does not claim that the Old Testament is no longer relevant for God’s people.

Hebrews 7:27 states, “Once for all,” referring not only to the singular occasion of Jesus’ sacrifice but also to its unrepeatable nature. He made an ultimate sacrifice, meaning no further sacrifices are necessary. This commentary brings to mind a conversation I had recently about the reinstitution of sacrifices. Several Old Testament passages indicate that animal sacrifices will be re-instituted during the future millennial kingdom. If Jesus Christ is our “once for all” ultimate sacrifice, why are animal sacrifices mentioned in a future context? The general consensus is that it will be a memorial sacrifice, not a sin offering. This topic is further explored in the GotQuestions article, Will there be animal sacrifices during the millennial kingdom?

Hebrews 8: A New and Better Covenant

Referring to Jesus, the passage states:

“Now if He were on earth, He would not be a priest at all, since there are those who offer the gifts according to the Law; who serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things, just as Moses was warned by God when he was about to erect the tabernacle; for, ‘See,’ He says, ‘that you make all things according to the pattern which was shown you on the mountain.’ But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, by as much as He is also the mediator of a better covenant, which has been enacted on better promises.” — Hebrews 8:4-6

This passage, combined with the overall chapter, makes me wonder if this is a direct reference to the Jewish people who still serve “under the law”, are working to build a new temple, and plan to reinstate animal sacrifices. The October 6 attack of Hamas on Israel occurred largely because of the red heifers. For more about that, read: The Red Heifer and the Third Temple in End-Time Prophecy.

Hebrews 8:7-13 provides proof that Jesus ushered in a new and better covenant. This can also be seen as a renewed covenant. According to the FaithLife Study Bible commentary on Hebrews 8:10:

“I will write them on their hearts. God had instructed the Israelites to recite and discuss His commands (Deut 6:6–9). However, sin was written on their hearts (Jer 17:1). Thus, God declares that He will rewrite what is on their hearts (Jer 31:33). In this sense, the new covenant is a renewed covenant.”

Jesus is the mediator of a new and better (renewed) covenant. Because of what He did, we now have access to God through Him. This is a relationship, not religion! We don’t have to be atoned for by earthly priests through sacrifices. We’re given the deposit of the Holy Spirit to guide us in the way we should walk. We don’t even have to have a man read us the laws or Bible so that we know right from wrong. It is written on our hearts. We are saved, justified, and being sanctified until the day we’re glorified and redeemed.

Hebrews 9-10: The Final Sin offering Sacrifice

“But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things to come, He entered through the greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this creation; and not through the blood of goats and calves, but through His own blood, He entered the holy place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.” — Hebrews 9:11-12

Jesus’ sacrifice was final and sufficient to cover our sins:

“But He, having offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, sat down at the right hand of God.” — Hebrews 10:12

“For by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are sanctified. And the Holy Spirit also testifies to us; for after saying, ‘This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws upon their heart, and on their mind I will write them,’ He then says, ‘And their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.’ Now where there is forgiveness of these things, there is no longer any offering for sin.” — Hebrews 10:14-18

To willfully sin after what Jesus did seems like an outright betrayal. What He did to forgive our sins and reconcile us to God should sufficiently motivate us to pursue righteousness:

“For if we go on sinning willfully after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a terrifying expectation of judgment and the fury of a fire which will consume the adversaries.” — Hebrews 10:26-27

Hebrews 11: Faith and Righteousness

Our righteousness is granted by faith, and it always has been. Abraham knew God could raise from the dead. He had complete faith, not just that God could provide an alternative sacrifice, but that even if his son Isaac died, God could bring him back.:

“By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to endure ill-treatment with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin.” — Hebrews 11:24-25

This reminds me of how Jesus also didn’t use His “power” to attain position or favor with men. Instead, He humbled Himself. In Hebrews 11:26, it says about Moses:

“…considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he was looking to the reward.” — Hebrews 11:26

So, it seems Moses identified with Jesus Christ in the Old Testament. The faith of those throughout the Bible, even before Jesus came and even after, serves as a great cloud of witnesses to us now. That is encouraging!

James: Practical Wisdom from Jesus’s Brother

While all Scripture is God-breathed and useful, the Letters of James stands out for its practical wisdom. James, whose name is actually translated from Jacob, is Jesus’s brother. He started as a skeptic but ended up becoming an Apostle, making his journey truly inspiring.

Interestingly, the Bible Project refers to the followers in this audience as Messianic Jews, while in the Book of Acts they were known as followers of The Way. Gentile converts, on the other hand, were referred to as the first “Christians.” Despite these distinctions, the Bible emphasizes that there is no longer Jew or Gentile. As believers, we are one in the Messiah Jesus Christ and therefore Abraham’s descendants, which makes us co-heirs of the promise (Galatians 3:28-29).

James 1-2: Instructions to The Twelve Tribes of Israel

For the first time, I noticed that the letter of James is addressing the twelve tribes of Israel that have been dispersed abroad. The Faithlife Study Bible notes this in James 1:1: “The prophets used this term to refer to the future restored people of God (e.g., Ezekiel 47:13, 22; Isaiah 49:6; Zechariah 9:1).”

James essentially instructs and encourages them through trials, reminding them to ask God for help in faith, to be humble, to remember who they are in contrast to who God is, and to be doers of the word, not just hearers, because the word can save their souls. James also introduces the concept of the “Law of Liberty.”

Faithlife says this about it in James 1:25: “Although James may be referring to the law of Moses (Psalms 19:7; 119:32, 45–46, 96), he more likely refers to the law of Moses as now perceived through Jesus’ interpretation and supplementation (Matthew 5:17). Here, ‘law’ is equivalent to ‘the word’ in James 1:18, 21, 22. Although our salvation isn’t works-based, it should produce works. It’s intentional.”

“Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.” (James 1:27) This is reiterated in James 2:14: “What use is it, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but he has no works? Can that faith save him?” This isn’t just an “I said a prayer and asked God into my heart” kind of salvation or faith.

Faith and Works

We studied this chapter of James at our homeschool co-op for several months. The distinctions it draws reminded me of an incident I once encountered. A man experiencing significant personal financial struggles mentioned it briefly to a group. One woman quietly offered him some money, but I noticed later he disclosed that he had been present just a few weeks earlier when another man made derogatory comments about “all these homeless people being bussed into the area.” The man speaking didn’t know that the man with financial difficulties was also homeless, staying in a hotel. This experience served as a stark reminder of how quickly negative assumptions can be made about others. It was truly eye-opening. Even something as seemingly small as showing partiality renders us guilty and transgressors of the entire law.

“If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,’ yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself.” (James 2:15-17)

In sending Jesus Christ and giving us the scripture, God has indeed shown great mercy. James reminds us that mere “belief” in God does not automatically guarantee salvation. After all, even demons believe. Genuine salvation, or true religion, results in action.

These points resonate with my studies in reformed theology, particularly the concept of faith alone. Sometimes, the hyper-emphasis on faith alone may lead people to a false sense of salvation, especially when there is a lack of tangible evidence of the fruits of salvation, i.e., good works. As James 2:24 asserts, “You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone.”

James 3-4: Teaching and Prayer Addressed

“Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment” (James 3:1) is a constant reminder for me as I walk out my faith in fear. I have been involved in teaching in various capacities, including leading co-op, small groups, Sunday children’s classes, and Vintage Virtues. This verse underscores the weighty responsibility that comes with teaching. Despite not being a Shepherd preacher, in line with the directive in 1 Timothy 2, I believe this exhortation applies to anyone in a teaching role. I empathize with pastors, as the enormity of their responsibility in steering the ship is evident, especially considering that we all stumble.

This serves as a counterpoint to the prosperity health and wealth gospel that isn’t preached as much: “You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures” (James 4:3). James 4:11 and beyond delves into intriguing territory about what it means to keep the law, presumably referring to the law of liberty. We are called to be doers of the law, not judges of it, as there is only one judge. Once you understand something, you are responsible for acting on it; otherwise, it becomes a sin.

James 5: Key Passages

Chapter 5 of James provides a summary of preceding passages and concludes with a powerful statement urging individuals to stand by their word: “…let your yes be yes and your no be no.” The chapter exhorts believers to engage in prayer, praise, and calling upon the elders to anoint the sick with oil in the name of the Lord. Additionally, it encourages the confession of sins to one another in prayer, emphasizing the efficacy of the prayers of a righteous person. While originally addressed to the twelve tribes of Israel, the principles outlined resonate with the corporate church model or at least offer a compelling blueprint for its operation.

Finally, Faithlife Study Bible ends with defining a righteous person this way: “James 5:16 (FSB): a righteous person refers to a person who is committed to doing the will of God and to cultivating a right relationship with Him.”

1 and 2 Peter: Encouragement for Believers

Both of these letters are written by the Apostle Peter to encourage Christians. 1 Peter is characterized by themes of suffering, hope, and the pursuit of holiness. In it, the Apostle Peter encourages believers to remain steadfast in the face of persecution and to live godly lives as a testimony. In 2 Peter, the Apostle dives into false teachers and the importance of knowing the truth. Believers are also encouraged and assured that Christ will return during the day of The Lord’s great judgment.

1 Peter: Election, Salvation, and the Call to Holiness

This is the first letter of Peter. In 1 Peter 1 The words in 1 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭”…who are chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood…” tell me that God’s foreknowledge is a significant component of the “chosen” part of Calvinism. God already knows, so He’s speaking throughout the Bible from the vantage point of omnipotence.

I wondered more about the sprinkling of Christ’s blood that Peter mentioned, and this is what Matthew Henry’s commentary says: “They were elected also to the sprinkling of the blood of Jesus. They were designed by God’s decree to be sanctified by the Spirit and to be purified by the merit and blood of Christ. Here is a manifest allusion to the typical sprinklings of blood under the law, which language these Jewish converts understood very well. The blood of the sacrifices must not only be shed but sprinkled, to denote that the benefits designed thereby are applied and imputed to the offerers. Thus the blood of Christ, the grand and all-sufficient sacrifice, typified by the legal sacrifices, was not only shed but must be sprinkled and communicated to every one of these elect Christians, that through faith in his blood they may obtain remission of sin, Rom. 3:25. This blood of sprinkling justifies before God (Rom. 5:9), seals the covenant between God and us, of which the Lord’s supper is a sign (Lu. 22:20), cleanses from all sin (1 Jn. 1:7), and admits us into heaven, Heb. 10:19.”

Although we may face many trials and the testing of our faith, God will preserve us. In 1 Peter 1:5, we are those “who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” The outcome of our faith is salvation, hallelujah! But this comes with direction. It is not a simple confession of faith equals eternal salvation and that’s it. There is transformative action that takes place as a result of salvation. We’re instructed:

1. Prepare your minds for action
2. Keep sober in spirit
3. Fix your hope on the grace of Jesus
4. As obedient children, do not be conformed to former lusts
5. Be Holy

Finally, love is appealed to. “Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart,“ (1 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭22‬). 1 Peter 1:18-19 reiterates that we are redeemed by the precious blood of the spotless lamb, Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 2: Sanctification

This is the second letter of Peter. In 1 Peter 2 Newborn Christians should grow in respect to salvation. We are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood. Those who reject Christ, the cornerstone, stumble because they are disobedient to the word. “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession…” (1 Peter‬ ‭2‬:‭9‬).

I struggle the most with the command to honor ALL authority. It is not just the good Kings (Presidents) and Governors that we are to honor. ”For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men.” (1 Peter‬ ‭2‬:‭15‬). Even David honored Saul. “Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable.” (1 Peter‬ ‭2‬:‭18‬).

Now this doesn’t say that we have to act sinfully in compliance with every edict that comes down from legislation. As Christians, we still have a duty to respectfully challenge moral issues against God’s Laws. Yet, we are to patiently endure suffering under hardships just as Christ did. “And He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.” (1 Peter‬ ‭2‬:‭24‬).

1 Peter 3: Relationships and Conduct

1 Peter 3 continues to address how the believer should act in relationships. Wives are called to submit to their husbands, even if they aren’t obedient to the Lord! We are called to let our beauty shine from within. Internal beauty is elevated above external beauty. Likewise, men are called to honor their wives so that their prayers won’t be hindered.

The FaithLife Study Bible commentary states that “weaker vessel” refers to women having physically less strength, not being spiritually or mentally weak, since both sexes are created in the image of God.

The following passage brings up some interesting commentary: “For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit; in which also He went and made proclamation to the spirits now in prison, who once were disobedient, when the patience of God kept waiting in the days of Noah, during the construction of the ark, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through the water.” ‭‭(1 Peter‬ ‭3‬:‭18‬-‭20‬).

The FaithLife Study Bible says: “1 Peter 3:19 (FSB): proclaimed to the spirits in prison. This short phrase raises several difficult issues for the interpreter: the identity of the spirits in prison (v. 19), the reasons for their imprisonment, the location of the prison where Christ went to preach, the content of Christ’s proclamation, the relationship of preaching to the “spirits” (v. 19) with preaching to those who are dead (4:6), and the possible allusions to biblical (Gen 6–9; Jude) and extrabiblical traditions (such as the Jewish work called 1 Enoch).”

1 Peter 4-5: Instructions for Godly Living

1 Peter 4 Living a sinful lifestyle (sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, carousing, drinking parties, abominable idolatries) is incompatible with the Christian walk. Instead, we are to walk in sound judgment, sober spirit, in prayer, with fervent love, and serving one another with our special gifts.

1 Peter 5 Service of the overseers and elders shouldn’t be done out of compulsion, as a means of sordid gain (greediness, dishonest profit), or for power but it should be done with eagerness, humility, and as an example to the flock.

Chronologically, the Bible Recap plan placed Hebrews as occurring between (or at the same time as) 1 and 2 Peter. So, we actually jumped into Hebrews at this point in the reading before going back into 2 Peter.

2 Peter: Cyclical Rebellion

I watched the Bible Project overview of 2 Peter and found it interesting that it references the Book of Enoch. Christians began distorting the Word of God, using liberty as an excuse to sin. They also claimed that Jesus wasn’t returning. The parallels to today’s culture are striking. The Book of Jude (Judah, Jesus’s brother) warns of the same issues. The Bible Project states that Jude was written primarily to a Jewish Messianic Christian audience who had used God’s grace as a license to sin, struggling most with money and sex. These are two significant issues that people in the church still struggle with today. Jude uses the Israelites as a warning, and again, the Book of Enoch is referenced. Rebellion is cyclical. Those who are corrupted go on to corrupt others. This reminds me of the documentary “Quiet on the Set,” an exposé about Nickelodeon and the child sexual abuse perpetuated in the shows we watched in the 90s.

2 Peter 1: Characteristics of a Faithful Christian

2 Peter 1 opens by addressing those who have received faith by the righteousness of God and Jesus Christ. It lists the characteristics fitting for Christians: diligence, moral excellence, knowledge, self-control (with perseverance), godliness, brotherly kindness, and love.

We’re also warned that if God did not spare the angels who sinned, the ancient world from the flood, or the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, why would He spare unrighteous, unrepentant sinners during the final judgment?

2 Peter 2-3: Warnings and Reminders

2 Peter 2:20-22 indicates that people can know righteousness and still fall away. 2 Peter 3 reminds us to remember the words spoken by the holy prophets and the commandment of the Lord and Savior spoken by the Apostles. It warns that Jesus will come back like a thief in the night and that the heavens and earth will be destroyed. In light of that, we are to carry ourselves in holy conduct and godliness (2 Peter‬ ‭3‬:‭11‬). We’re also warned to be on guard so that we are not carried away by unprincipled men and fall from our secure position.

1-3 John: Embracing the Light and Love of Christ

1 John 1 highlights the transformative work of Jesus Christ on the cross. He, who knew no sin, took on our sins to cleanse us from darkness and bring us into the light. This sets the foundation for the entire epistle, emphasizing the importance of living in the light of Christ. 1 John 2 encourages believers by reminding us that Christ is our advocate. If we do sin, He mediates on our behalf. The letter then provides lengthy instructions:

• Those who claim to abide in Christ should walk as He walked (1 John 2:6).
• We are to keep His commandments, which are not new but have been given from the beginning. A new commandment is also introduced: as darkness passes and the light shines, we are to love rather than hate.

Additionally, we are instructed not to love the world or the things in it. 1 John 2:18 refers to the time as the “last hour,” warning that the antichrist is coming and many antichrists have already come. The antichrist is defined as anyone who denies the Father and the Son (1 John 2:22). The Holy Spirit is given to guide us, as reminded in 1 John 2:27:

“As for you, the anointing which you received from Him abides in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you; but as His anointing teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you abide in Him.”

This verse resonates with the promise of the new covenant: “And they shall not teach everyone his fellow citizen, And everyone his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ For all will know Me, From the least to the greatest of them.” (Hebrews 8:11). 1 John 3 addresses the concept of “lawlessness”. Sin is defined as lawlessness (1 John 3:4), and those who practice righteousness are deemed righteous through Christ. The passage clarifies that anyone who does not practice righteousness or love their brother is not of God (1 John 3:10). 1 John 4: Testing the Spirits and Emphasizing Love

1 John 4 instructs believers to test the spirits, stating:

“Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God; and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God; this is the spirit of the antichrist.”

This teaching highlights the need for discernment, especially when there are different teachings among denominations. The key questions are: Has a person been saved by grace through faith in Jesus, and does that person confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh from God? If so, there should be grace. Love is emphasized repeatedly as a hallmark of true faith. 1 John 5: Signs of a Believer

1 John 5 underscores that love and keeping His commandments are signs of a believer:

“By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and observe His commandments.”

The FaithLife Study Bible commentary elaborates that these commandments refer to the teachings of Jesus, not the Jewish law (1 John 2:7-8). Christians are called to express their love for God by loving fellow believers. Bear in mind, it’s important to distinguish between Jewish Law and God’s Commandments from the Bible. Jewish Law often includes extra-biblical rules to prevent accidentally breaking God’s commandments. For example, Exodus 35:3 states not to kindle a fire on the Sabbath. Jewish Rabbis interpret this to mean that lighting a candle or warming food violates this command. Reference: Mekhilta DeRabbi Yishmael, Tractate Shabbata 2:9 (sefaria.org).

2 John: Walking in the Truth

2 John reiterates most of what was spoken in 1 John. A commentary I read suggests that though John may be writing to a literal lady, he’s more likely addressing the congregation as a lady. It was common to address the church in the feminine. He was likely talking to the people of a church in Ephesus. It’s neat to make that historical connection; it gives understanding to why some churches are named “Lady of…” or “Our Lady…” It also makes sense in the context of the church being the bride. What John says is pretty simple: walk in the commands, acknowledge Jesus Christ has come in the flesh. If someone doesn’t teach this, don’t invite them. The one who invites him in participates in his evil deeds. That’s the harder part to discern because there’s so much discrepancy.

3 John: Encouragement and Warnings

John had three distinct purposes in writing this letter:

1. To encourage Gaius in his ministry of hospitality to those going from place to place preaching the Gospel.
2. To indirectly warn and condemn the behavior of Diotraphes, a dictatorial leader who has taken over one of the churches in Asia. He refused to acknowledge John’s authority as an apostle or adhere to his letters and the Gospel he stands for.
3. To commend Demetrius, who was reported to have a good testimony from all.

Jude: A Brief but Powerful Message

Jude, a short book consisting of just one chapter, is packed with significant warnings and exhortations. Jude, also known as Judah in Hebrew, was one of Jesus’ brothers. The Bible names Jesus’ brothers as James, Joses (Joseph), Judas (Jude), and Simon (Peter) (Mark 6:3, Matthew 13:55). Interestingly, Jesus’ brothers did not become leaders until after His death, resurrection, and ascension.

The book of Jude quickly dives into a warning: “For certain persons have crept in unnoticed, those who were long beforehand marked out for this condemnation, ungodly persons who turn the grace of our God into licentiousness and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ” (Jude 1:4). This addresses early church leaders who had become corrupt and distorted God’s grace as a license to sin. They believed that God’s forgiveness allowed them to do whatever they pleased. Jude accuses them of betraying Jesus’s instructions, stating, “These are grumblers, finding fault, following after their own lusts; they speak arrogantly, flattering people for the sake of gaining an advantage” (Jude 1:16).

Jude uses Old Testament examples to illustrate how this cycle of sin continues. He references Israel in the wilderness, rebellious angels (quoting the book of Enoch and Genesis), Sodom and Gomorrah, and Michael the Archangel fighting the Devil on behalf of Moses after his death (quoting the Testament of Moses). He also mentions the rebellion of Cain, Balaam, and Korah.

Jude then offers final warnings, drawing from the Book of Enoch and the letters of the apostles Peter, John, and Paul. It’s noteworthy that Jude quotes extra-biblical texts, which adds an interesting dimension to his message.

Finally, Jude gives a call to action for believers to contend for the faith: “But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting anxiously for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life. And have mercy on some, who are doubting; save others, snatching them out of the fire; and on some have mercy with fear, hating even the garment polluted by the flesh” (Jude 1:20-23).

In summary, Jude’s message is a powerful reminder to remain vigilant, uphold the faith, and be wary of those who distort God’s grace. It encourages believers to strengthen their faith, pray in the Holy Spirit, and show mercy to those who doubt, all while maintaining a deep love for God.

10 Key Takeaways from the Epistles General Letters:

Reading the New Testament without considering the context of the Old Testament might lead to different interpretations and key takeaways. However, it is crucial to recognize the continuity between the Old and New Testaments, as the Bible tells one cohesive story. Considering this fuller context, here is a list of 10 key takeaways:

1. The Great Warnings Against Apostasy: Hebrews warns sternly against falling away from the faith, highlighting the serious consequences of apostasy (Hebrews 6:4-6, 10:26-31). Believers can know righteousness and still fall away if they return to their sinful ways (2 Peter 2:20-22). 1 John 2:18-22 cautions against false teachers and the antichrist, urging believers to remain faithful to Christ’s teachings. Jude warns about individuals who have “crept in unnoticed,” turning God’s grace into a license for immorality and denying Jesus Christ, underscoring the need for vigilance against apostasy and false teachings (Jude 1:4, 9, 14-15).
2. Jesus Christ: Fulfillment of Messianic Prophecies: Jesus is portrayed as the radiance of God’s glory and the exact imprint of His nature, superior to angels, Moses, and Melchizedek, fulfilling messianic prophecies (Hebrews 1:3-4). He is our high priest and mediator, highlighting His role in the new and better covenant (Hebrews 8:6-13). Believers are redeemed by the precious blood of Christ, the spotless lamb (1 Peter 1:18-19). This assures His fulfillment of future prophecies, including His return and final judgment (2 Peter 3:7, 10-11). 1 John 1 highlights Jesus’s work on the cross, cleansing us from darkness and bringing us into the light. Jude emphasizes Jesus as “our only Master and Lord,” reinforcing His role in fulfilling messianic prophecies and highlighting His sovereignty (Jude 1:4).
3. The Holy Spirit: 1 John 2:27 emphasizes the Holy Spirit’s role in teaching and guiding believers, echoing the new covenant promise of God’s laws written on our hearts. The greatest gift of the indwelling Holy Spirit is love. Jesus, as our high priest, demonstrated the ultimate act of love through His sacrifice (Hebrews 9:26). Obedience to the truth purifies souls for a sincere love of the brethren, leading to fervent love from the heart (1 Peter 1:22). 1 John 2 introduces the new commandment to love one another as the light of Christ shines, reinforcing the centrality of love in Christian faith. 1 John 3 underscores that practicing righteousness and loving one’s brother are marks of being a child of God.
4. Sin Problem and Repentance: Hebrews explains that Jesus’s sacrifice made the old sacrificial system obsolete, providing complete atonement for sins once for all (Hebrews 7:27, 9:12, 10:10-14). It warns against willful sinning after knowing the truth and emphasizes repentance and righteousness (Hebrews 10:26-27). James stresses that faith without works is dead and calls for repentance and transformation (James 2:17, 4:8-10). 1 John 3 defines sin as lawlessness and highlights the need for practicing righteousness. Jude uses Old Testament examples to illustrate the consequences of sin and rebellion, showing continuity between the Old and New Testaments (Jude 1:7, 16).
5. Normative Christian Behaviors:
   • Mature Growth: Believers are encouraged to move beyond elementary teachings and grow to maturity in their faith (Hebrews 5:12-6:1). Newborn Christians should long for pure spiritual milk to grow in respect to salvation, being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood (1 Peter 2:2, 5).
   • Faith: Hebrews 11 provides a detailed account of faith as the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen. 1 John 1 and 2 encourage believers to walk in the light and follow Christ’s commandments, reflecting a life transformed by faith.
   • Wisdom: James highlights the importance of seeking God’s wisdom, emphasizing its purity and peace-loving nature (James 1:5, 3:17).
   • Godly Living: James provides clear instructions on Christian conduct, including controlling the tongue, caring for the needy, and living humbly (James 1:19-27, 3:1-12). Believers are to live according to God’s will, displaying sound judgment, a sober spirit, fervent love, and service (1 Peter 4:2-10). Christians are called to exhibit diligence, moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love (2 Peter 1:5-7).
   • Prayer: James stresses the importance of prayer, especially in the context of healing and restoration, encouraging believers to pray for one another and seek the elders’ prayers when sick (James 5:16).
   • Submission: Believers are called to submit to authorities, respect masters, and honor their spouses (1 Peter 2:13-18, 3:1-7, 5:2-3).
   • Humility: Believers are called to humble themselves under God’s mighty hand, casting all anxieties on Him (1 Peter 5:6-7).
   • Testing the Spirits: 1 John 4 instructs believers to test the spirits to discern true teachings from false ones, ensuring adherence to the true faith.
   • Signs of a Believer: 1 John 5 identifies love and obedience to God’s commandments as signs of a true believer.
   • Contending for the Faith and Mercy: Jude urges believers to “contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 1:3). Believers are encouraged to build themselves up in their most holy faith, pray in the Holy Spirit, and keep themselves in God’s love while waiting for Jesus Christ’s mercy (Jude 1:20-21). Jude also instructs believers to show mercy to those who doubt, save others by snatching them from the fire, and show mercy mixed with fear (Jude 1:22-23).
6. Perspective on Law and Covenant: Hebrews introduces the new and better covenant through Jesus, fulfilling the curse of sin and establishing grace-based obedience to God’s commands written on our hearts (Hebrews 8:6-13). Jesus mediates this covenant, surpassing Moses and the angels, enabling a direct relationship with God (Hebrews 8:6, 12:24). James underscores the inseparable link between faith and action, declaring “faith without works is dead” (James 2:17). This affirms that true faith is evidenced by practical obedience.
7. God’s Holiness and Sovereignty: Hebrews underscores God’s sovereignty and the need for believers to live a life reflecting God’s holiness, urging them to draw near to God and purify their hearts (Hebrews 4:14-16). God’s discipline is presented as a sign of His love, intended for the growth and holiness of believers (Hebrews 12:5-11). James stresses living a life that reflects God’s holiness, urging believers to purify their hearts and draw near to God (James 4:8). His emphasis on humility and submission to God underscores God’s sovereignty (James 4:6-10). James calls for humility and submission to God: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up” (James 4:10). Believers are encouraged to resist the devil, draw near to God, and cleanse their hearts. 1 Peter 1:16 appeals to the Torah command found in the Old Testament, reiterating, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” As believers, we are called to holiness, to be obedient children; we should not conform to former lusts but be holy in all behavior (1 Peter 1:13-16). If God did not spare the angels who sinned, the ancient world from the flood, or Sodom and Gomorrah, He will not spare unrighteous, unrepentant sinners during the final judgment (2 Peter 2:4-6). 1 John 1-3 emphasizes living in the light of Christ, practicing righteousness, and abiding in God’s commandments, reflecting God’s holiness and sovereignty. Jude concludes with a doxology, praising God for His ability to keep believers from stumbling and to present them blameless before His glory (Jude 1:24-25).
8. Relevance of Sabbath and Biblical Feasts: Hebrews 4:1-11 discusses the concept of entering God’s rest, which is a spiritual rest available to believers, symbolized by the Sabbath rest. It emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience to enter this rest. The letters of John focus on themes of love, truth, and obedience to God’s commandments. While they do not specifically address the Sabbath or Biblical Feasts, they underscore living in accordance with God’s will, which could include honoring these practices for those who feel led to observe them.
9. Christian Unity: James calls for impartiality and unity among believers, warning against favoritism (James 2:1-9). His teachings support the Apostolic emphasis on unity in the body of Christ. 1 Peter 3:8 encourages believers to be like-minded, sympathetic, and compassionate. 1 Peter 4:8-9 emphasizes loving each other deeply and offering hospitality. The recurring theme in 1-3 John is unity among believers through love, advocating for sincere and fervent love from the heart. 1 John 4:7-8 calls believers to love one another, as love comes from God, while 1 John 4:20-21 warns that one cannot love God if they hate their brother or sister. Hebrews 13:1 simply states, “Let brotherly love continue,” underscoring the importance of maintaining love and unity within the Christian community.
10. Perseverance in Trials and Tribulations: Hebrews and James encourage believers to persevere through trials, viewing them as opportunities for spiritual growth and maturity (Hebrews 3:14, 10:23-25; 12:1-3; James 1:2-4). Christ’s example in suffering is highlighted in Peter’s letters, urging believers to endure trials with faith and humility, trusting in God’s restoration and strength (1 Peter 2:21-24; 4:12-13; 5:10). Despite challenges, believers are called to remain steadfast, warned against false teachings, and encouraged to persevere in faith (2 Peter 3:9, 15; 1 John 2).

Conclusion

We’ve now covered the New Testament’s Gospels, Acts of the Apostle, Letters from the Apostles, and General Letters (Epistles). Revelation is the final book to cover; a hyperlink to that article will be included once it’s available.