Romans is the first of the epistles to be penned by the Apostle Paul. As its name suggests, it was written directly to the newly founded Christian church in Rome, which was struggling to uphold the beliefs and morals of Christianity. In this book, Paul clearly lays out the doctrine of Christianity and gives illuminating instructions on how to live righteously in the midst of sin.
The first of two letters to the church in Corinth, 1 Corinthians is an epistle written by the Apostle Paul due to reports of the sin and immorality present within its members. A frank discussion of Christian views on immorality, marriage and division within a community, this book is an essential guide to living a Christian lifestyle when surrounded by sin and temptation.
The book of Galatians was written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Galatia, regarding the division between the Christian Jews and the Christian Gentiles within their community. These chapters discuss the importance of unity between the different factions of Christianity and also rebuke those who continued to favor the Mosaic Law over their belief in Christ and the freedom that He gave with His sacrifice on the cross.
Paul's letter to the Ephesians was written whilst he was imprisoned by the Romans, and it urges the need for a close relationship with God in the midst of persecution. Ephesians clearly states the imperative belief of salvation through the grace of God, and not merely through good deeds or obedience to rules.Surrounded by worshippers of false gods, the church in Ephesus needed unity and strength in order to keep their new faith.
The book of Philippians was written to the church in Philippi by the Apostle Paul during his imprisonment by the Romans. As some of his most faithful followers and Christians, Paul wrote to the Philippians to express his appreciation for their support and to encourage them to continue in their firm belief. Philippians is an inspirational epistle to remind Christians that while following God may sometimes result in persecution and suffering, there is also great and fulfilling joy to be found in humble service to Him.
The first book of Kings recounts the lives of the kings of Israel and Judea over a period of 400 years after the death of King David. His son, Solomon, features heavily in these chapters, first to show God's generous blessings to a faithful king, and later, as an example of the consequences of turning away from God. This book also details the split of the northern and southern tribes of Israel, and the subsequent appointment of the prophet Elijah to bring hope to the true followers of God, and vengeance on those who had renounced Him
The second book of Kings depicts Israel as a land divided, being ruled by wicked kings who lead the Israelite people only further into idolatry and sin. Throughout this period, the prophets, notably Elijah and Elisha, bring hope for repentance and reformation by performing astounding miracles and spreading the word of God. Their efforts to lead the Israelites from their stubborn and disobedient path are chronicled in 2 Kings and, once again, God shows how He rewards obedience with blessings but rebellion with tragic consequences.
Written shortly after its prequel, 2 Thessalonians was written by the apostle Paul to reassure the Thessalonian church of the second coming of Christ and to refute the teachings of false prophets. After several forgeries of Paul's letters, the apostle himself alleviated their fears that the time of the end had already begun. In 2 Thessalonians, there are many prophecies depicting the rapture, the Antichrist and the times of tribulation which are detailed fully in Revelations.
The book of 1 Timothy was written by the Apostle Paul to a young pastor by the same name, who was based in the church at Ephesus. Paul instructs him on the importance of not being led astray by false teachings, and to keep his faith in God. This book contains clear directions on the organization and structure of a church as well as practical advice on how to lead one.
Titus is an epistle written by Paul to the man of the same name who was a respected leader of the church in Crete and a close friend of Paul. This book contains detailed directions on how to live a life that exhibits the grace of God and produces good deeds. Paul also gives instructions on the proper roles of each group in the church to further the stability and growth of the Christian faith.
Only one chapter long, Philemon is an epistle written by Paul to exhort a slave owner to forgive his runaway slave, Onesimus. As a close friend of Philemon, Paul encourages him to no longer see Onesimus as a slave, but as a fellow brother in Christ, whose forgiveness should be emulated by all His followers.
The epistle of Hebrews was written by an unknown author to a community of Jewish Christians living in Rome under heavy persecution. This book encourages the church to keep their faith in difficult circumstances and not to return to Judaism and the Mosaic Law. Hebrews extols Jesus as the Son of God and clearly emphasizes that only through Jesus can Christians achieve salvation.
