A New Testament Survey

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A NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY
BY
YESHWANTH . B. V., BE., BD

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1. THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW
1.1 Authorship
The authorship of this Gospel was undisputed in the early churches. This Gospel is
traditionally ascribed to Matthew Levi, a tax collector or publican. One may see the name of
“Matthew” in Matt 9:9-13; 10:3. He was termed “Legendary”1
. This is mainly because he was
disappeared from the history of church after he was mentioned in Acts 1:13. The early church
father strongly admits that the author of this Gospel is Matthew himself. “‘Eusebius (c. A.D.
325) quotes Papias (c. A.D.100) as saying that Matthew had composed in Aramaic the oracles
of the Lord, which were translated in to Greek by each man as he was able’”2
. Many scholars
think that Matthew wrote a rough description of life of Jesus in the Aramaic language before
Mark’s Gospel was written. After Mark has written the Gospel in 65-70 A.D., Matthew revised
his Gospel and included much of Mark’s in his own hand. “The final revision of this Gospel
was a later edition work by himself or someone”3
. Therefore there was a Gospel before the
Gospel of Matthew was written but in Aramaic language which was very much accepted and
widely used in the early churches before Mark’s Gospel. Papias states that “Matthew wrote the
words in Hebrew dialect and each one interpreted as he could”4
. But scholars considered it not
as Hebrew dialect but of Aramaic. “Many have explained papias statement as referring to
Aramaic original form which Greek Gospel is translated”5
.
1.2 Date and Place of Composition
We cannot specifically suggest the date of this Gospel. The internal evidence throws some light
on the date of its composition. It might have probably written “before the first dispersion of
Jerusalem Christians (Acts 8:4)”6
. In Matt 24:1-28, we see prophecy on Jerusalem’s destruction
1
Merril C. Tenney, New Testament survey, (Grand Rapids: Inter-Varsity Press, 1953), p.149
2
Ibid.149
3
Thomas Hale, The Applied New Testament Commentary, (East Bourne: Kingsway Publication,1996), p. 149
4
Eusebius Ecclesiastical History 3.39 citing in Homer A. Kent, “The Gospel according to Matthew”, The Wycliff Bible Commentary,
eds, Charles F. Pfeiffer, Everette F. Harrison, (Chicago: Moody Press, 1962) p. 929
5
Homer A. Kent, “The Gospel according to Matthew”, The Wycliff Bible Commentary, eds, Charles F. Pfeiffer, Everette F. Harrison,
(Chicago: Moody Press, 1962) p. 929
6
Merril C. Tenney, New Testament Survey, (Grand Rapids: Inter-Varsity Press, 1953), p.150

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that which took place after A.D. 70. It might have probably written between A.D. 50- A.D. 70.
This implies that the Gospel was written during the reign of Nero.
Antioch is the place well-accepted by many scholars as the place of this Gospels
composition. As the church in Antioch consists of both Aramaic and Greek speaking Gentiles,
“no other place is suitable for it”7
.
1.3 Purpose
I. For apologetical purpose
II.To show Jesus of Nazareth as “The Messiah”.
III.To show that the Old Testament prophecies were fulfilled in
Jesus.
IV.For the benefit of the church in Antioch and for the Gentiles.
V. For the Jewish community and also for Jewish converts.
1.4 Readers
This Gospel is mainly intended to the Jewish community, Jewish converts and to the
Gentiles living in Antioch. This Gospel is considered as “the favorite of the Syro-Jewish
Church”8
. This Gospel is well-suited for the church which was closely related to Judaism.
1.5 Central Message
The central message in this Gospel is the fulfillment of the Messianic Promises in Jesus
Christ. This message revolves around Christ’s son ship and Kingship. It also preserves the old
tradition. “…the essence of the Abrahamic covenant, which stressed God’s benefits to Abraham
and to his seed as a separate people, and yet added: “In thee shall all the families of the earth be
blessed” (Gen. 12:3)”9
.
7
Ibid.151
8
Ibid.151
9
Ibid.150

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1.6 Outline
Introducing Jesus (1:1-4:16)
Public ministry in and around Galilee.(4;17-16:20)
Private ministry in Galilee; preparing the disciples.(16:21-18:35)
Ministry in Judea ( 19:1-25:46)
The death and resurrection of Jesus. ( 26:1-28:20)
1.7 My Findings
According to my knowledge, evaluating from the information I have gathered, there
was already a source that was circulating during primitive period of Christianity. This source is
called “the M source” which may have been a rough record of the sayings and some deeds of
Jesus written in Aramaic as this language is well-accepted during the period of the early
Church. Most probably this source might be the hand work of Matthew himself. Matthew also
borrowed some of the deeds and sayings from another source called “Q” which may have been
existed in oral tradition and later on written down. Later, after Mark has composed another
Gospel, he revised his own version, translated by himself or from the community who followed
his Gospel. Therefore we have strong probabilities to argue that the Gospel of Matthew was
written by Matthew the Levi who was a tax collector, and so, we cannot brush this probability
away. At the other hand we can not conclusively say that it was written by Matthew himself.
Both have their own pros and corns. Regarding date, it was most probably written before the
destruction of Jerusalem as internal evidence supports this view. It might have been composed
between A.D. 50-A.D.70. The place of composition is in Antioch, as the internal and external
evidences suggest which was discussed earlier.

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2. The Gospel of Mark
2.1 Authorship
Traditionally, the author of this Gospel is John Mark. He was the son of a wealthy widow,
Mary. "Hayes suggests that he was “the spoiled son of a wealthy widow.”10
He was often
identified as the friend of the Apostles. He was a cousin of Barnabas, closely related to Peter
and an assistant to Paul. Now we evaluate some of the internal and external evidences.
The Internal evidences:
• In Acts 12:12, Mark was introduced in the context of Peter’s deliverance from prison.
• Acts 13:5, Mark went along as “assistant or Understudy” to Paul.
• 1 Peter 5:3, Mark association with Peter.
“The prayer meeting for the deliverance of Peter was held in her house, and it is
possible that her home was the headquarters of the Christian leaders in Jerusalem.”11
The External evidence:
Now we will look some external evidences as it requires a detail investigation to arrive at
most probable corroborating evidence.
“Papias (c. A.D. 115), as quoted by Eusebius (A.D. 375), said:
And John the Presbyter also said this – Mark being the interpreter of
Peter, whatsoever he recorded he wrote with great accuracy, but not, however, in
the order in which it was spoken or done by our Lord, for he neither heard nor
followed our Lord, but as before said, he was in company with Peter, who gave
him such instruction as was necessary, but not to give a history of our Lord’s
discourses: wherefore Mark has not erred in anything, by writing some things as he
has recorded them; for he was carefully attentive to one thing, not to pass by
10
Doremus A. Hayes, The synoptic Gospels and the Book of Acts, p.105 citing in Merril C. Tenney, New Testament Survey, (Grand
Rapids: Inter-Varsity Press, 1953), p.160
11
Ibid. 160

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anything he heard, or to state anything falsely in these accounts.”12
Clement of
Alexandria (c. A.D. 180) quoted that Peter hearers urged Mark to leave a record of doctrine of
which it was authorized by Peter, later used in Churches.13
Origen (c. A.D. 225), later said that
Mark wrote his Gospel as Peter explained to him.14
This can be corroborated with anit-
Marcionite prologue (160/80). “This information associating Peter and Mark is echoed later in
the anti-Marcionite prologue (160/80) that also refers to Mark as being “Study Fingered” (
Kolobosa/ktulos).”15
So this traditional view seems to be most probable.
2.2 Date and Place of Composition:
Most of the Scholars accept the date between “50-80 with preponderance of opinion
favoring A.D. 65-70”.16
Irenaeus view is also corroborated with anti-Marcionite prologue that it
was written “after the death of Peter.”17
This places date, as many scholars would agree, is A.D.
65-70. As we have earlier seen that Mark was interpreter of Peter and traditionally Peter was
martyred in Rome. Internally, there are some passages which explain Jewish customs. If it is a
Jewish community that Mark was writing to, then what is the necessary to explain their own
customs? Therefore, it leads us to conclude that it was written for the Roman Pupil. This helps
to identify the place of its composition in Rome.
2.3 Purpose:
• To present the deeds of Jesus
• To present the Gospel to Promiscuous crowd
• To present to a Roman mind.
• For teaching Purposes
• For liturgical purposes.
• To reform the church of his day.
12
Eusebius Historica Ecclesiae I I I. 39 citing in Merril C. Tenney, New Testament survey, (Grand Rapids: Inter-Varsity Press, 1953),
p. 161
13
Ibid. 162
14
Ibid. 162
15
Robert A. Gulich, “ Mark 1-8:26”, Word Biblical Dictionary, V. 34A, (Dallas: Word Books, Publisher, Texas: 1989), P.xxix
16
Donald W. Burdic, “The Gospel according to Mark”, The Wycliff Bible Commentary, eds, Charles F. Pfeiffer, Everette F. Harrison,
(Chicago: Moody Press, 1962), p. 987
17
Ibid. 987

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2.4 Central Message:
The theme of this Gospel revolves around two doctrines- “son of God” and the
other is “servant of God”. In a way he wanted to show Christ as both God who is above and
God who is always on move and in reach. This is the reason why his Christology has both “Son
of Man” and “Son of God” terms. This is to fight against the misconception of “Christology” in
the Churches during his time.
2.5 Outline
Preaching the kingdom of God (1:1 - 8:26)
The cost of the Kingdom of God (8:27 - 10:52)
Bringing in the Kingdom of God (11:1 - 16:20).
2.6 My Findings
The internal evidence is well corroborated with the external evidence. The
Petrain-Markan association is also well established. In the light of these evidences we cannot
simply brush out the possibility of authencity of the authorship to Mark. There is every
possibility that Mark composed first draft from the preaching of Peter and later he developed a
“Proto-Mark”. In the light of the scholars view, I would agree with the date
A.D. 65-70 which is the most probable date. We have very strong evidence internally indicating
that this Gospel was written in Rome to Roman Pupil. The language, style and his description of
the events leads us to this conclusion.

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3. The Gospel of Luke
3.1 Authorship
The author of this Gospel does not reveal his identity but he gives some information to
his aims, methods and his relationship with his contemporaries (Luke 1:1-4). During his time
there are already some accounts which are circulating at that time by which he was not
satisfied.18
His account on the life of Jesus is reliable. “His information came from competent official
sources (“who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the world”-1:2).”19
The
author was not an eyewitness but he made a thorough investigation of the facts by the access he
had to earlier narratives and people.
Internal evidence:
The author’s identity can be examined in the light of the relationship of this Gospel
with the Book of Acts. We see the first reference in Acts 16:10 in the context of Paul’s
departure from Troas on his secondary missionary journey. We observe the close relation
between Luke and Acts as both were addressed to Theophilus. “The resurrection and teaching
ministry of the forty day accords well with the content of Luke 24.”20
Now looking in to the
text of this Gospel, we can strongly assume that that the author had a strong literary ability. His
Greek usage is well-polished. He presents some accounts from a physician point of view (cf.
Mark 5: 26 and Luke 8:3). This is confirmed by “the title given to Luke in Colossians 4:14:
“Luke, the beloved physician.” “21
The author was an Antiochian Gentile who was converted in
18
Merril C. Tenney, New Testament Survey, (Grand Rapids: Inter-Varsity Press, 1953), p.173
19
Ibid.173
20
Adolph Harnack, Luke the Physician (Translated by J.R. Wilkinson. Crown Theological Library. London: Williams and Norgate;
New York: G.P. Putnam’s sons, 1907) citing in Merril C. Tenney, New Testament Survey, (Grand Rapids: Inter-Varsity Press, 1953),
p.177
21
Ibid.178

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Antioch in not more than 15 years after Pentecost. Later he became friend of Paul and
accompanied him in his second missionary journey. “Of the known traveling companions of
this period, none fits the requirements except Luke.”22
Therefore, in the light of above
evidences Luke is the most probable possibility as an author of this Gospel.
External evidence:
This Gospel was very much in circulation in the early part of 2nd
century. Iraneus
confirms the author of this Gospel as Luke.23
This was again quoted in “Muratorian Canon” and
much later in “Anti-Marcionite Prologue”.24
In 1st
an 2nd
centuries Gnostics used a distorted
form of Gospel of Luke.
3.2 Date and Place of Composition:
The Gospel of Luke must have been written after the composition of Matthew and
Mark but before the Book of Acts. At this time there was development in Christianity and that
suggests a date in late sixties in 1st
century. “Luke must be dated later than Mark, which is
generally dated in the late sixties of the first century.”25
So the probable date must be in
between late sixties and late seventies. We can not come to a conclusion regarding the place of
composition. “Concerning the Place of composition, there is no early tradition.”26
Scholars have
conjectured that the Gospel must have been written somewhere outside Palestine. “There are so
many suggestions like Rome, Caesarea, Achia, Asia Minor, Alexandria, somewhere in
Hellenistic world.” 27
3.3 Purpose:
• To give an systematic account of the life of Jesus
• To give an historical basis for the accounts though not a historical book in its
genre.
22
Ibid.177
23
Iraneus, Adversus Haereses. I I I, i. 2 citing in G.W.H. Lampe, “The Gospel of Luke”, Peak’s Commentary on the Bible, eds,
Matthew Black, H.H. Rowley, (Nairob: Nelson, 1962), p.820
24
Ibid.820
25
John Nollan, “Luke 1-9:20,” Word Biblical Commentary, V. 5A, (Texas: Word Book, Publisher, 1989), p.xxxvii
26
Werner Georg Kümmel, Introduction To The New Testament, (Translated by A.J. Mattil, Jr. New York: Nashville: Abingdon
press,1966), p.106
27
John Nollan, “Luke 1-9:20,” Word Biblical Commentary, V. 5A, (Texas: Word Book, Publisher, 1989), p.179

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• “To show Christianity was not a subversive sect.”28
• For apologetical purpose.
• To show the universality of the Christian message.
3.4 Readers:
The Gospel of Luke was addressed to “Theophilus” which is Greek name. By this we can
say that it was written for the Gentiles who were converted to Christianity. It was also
intended for the lower class too, as he himself was from middle class but always reached out
to the lower class. This is basically written for the people living outside Palestine.
3.5 Central Message
The central message of this Gospel is the doctrine of Salvation, which was made available
to mankind by the redemptive act of God through His Son Jesus, savior, who took away the
sins of this world offering forgiveness to all with a mission to proclaim this good news to all.
3.6 Outline:
1. Preface (1:1-4)
2. The birth and childhood of Jesus(1:5-2:52)
3. John the Baptist and Jesus (3:1-4:13)
4. The work of Jesus in Galilee(4:14-9:50)
5. The journey to Jerusalem(9:51-19:10)
6. The teaching of Jesus in Jerusalem(19:11-21:38)
2. The death and resurrection of Jesus.(22:1-24:53)
3.7 My Findings:
According to my findings regarding the authorship of the Gospel of Luke is well
collaborated with both the evidences that I have gathered here. Though the Scholars of the
middle nineteenth century and of the twentieth would not agree with the authorship of
Luke, one cannot simply brush away the traditional claim of this Gospel to Luke. We can
28
S. Maclean Gilmour, “The Gospel according to St. Luke”, The Interpreter Bible, (NY: Nashville: Abingdon= Cokesbury Press,
1952), p. 5

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strongly conclude that the one who wrote the Book of Acts is the same one wrote the
Gospel of Luke. The usage of medical terms, vocabulary, well-polished language and a
good chronology suggests that it was written by a “physician” which was attested to Luke
by early Church fathers. Regarding the date, we cannot conclusively give a precise date,
but evaluating the background of the Gospel of Luke, we can definitely say it was written
after Matthew, Mark and Acts. This brings us to a probable date between late sixties to late
seventies. We can not specify a particular place to the Gospel of Luke there are less
evidences but we can say it was composed outside of Palestine as it was addressed to the
people living outside Palestine.
4. The Gospel of John
4.1 Authorship:
Traditionally the authorship was ascribed to John, the son of Zebedee, who was a last
surviving member of the apostolic band. He was a Jew who was well-accustomed with
Jewish practices and well-acquainted with the geographical layout of the land. He was an
eyewitness to deeds and discourses of Jesus Christ (John 19:35- where he spoke in third
person). He was identified as “beloved disciple” and a close associate of Peter.
Internal Evidence:
From the internal evidences, we can infer that the writer of this Gospel is a fisherman
from Galilee. “He was one of the sons of Zebedee (Mark 1:19-20), a fisherman of Galilee,
and of Salome, who was probably the sister of Mary, Jesus’ mother (cf. Matt. 27:56; Mark
15:40; John. 15:40).”29
He may have belonged to the first disciples of John the Baptist
(John 1:40). We also see him as “a Participant later in the mission of the twelve (Matt.
10:1-2).”
External evidence:
The external evidence draws us to the early church fathers. All the early Church fathers
unambiguously agree that this Gospel was written by John, “the beloved disciple”.
29
Merril C. Tenney, Ibid., 190

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“Clement of Alexandria (A.D. 190), Origen (c. A.D. 220), Hippolytus (c. A.D. 225),
Tertullian (c. A.D. 200), and the Muratorian Fragment (c. A.D. 170) agree in
attributing the Fourth Gospel to John the son Zebedee.”30
Irenaeus, Bishop of Lyons was most important witness in the early Church.
“He wrote: “John the disciple of the Lord, who leaned on his breast, published the Gospel
while living at Ephesus in Asia” (Adv. Haer. 3.12)”31
This statement is trustworthy as Irenaeus was well-acquainted with Polycrap who was a
disciple of John. This can be corroborated by his letter to his friend Florinus.32
Being urged by
his friends to write an account, John “being inspired by the spirit, composed a spiritual
Gospel.”33
This is further expanded and attested in Muratorian canon. Now from the process
of elimination, “Peter, Thomas, and Philip are mentioned so frequently in the third person that
none of them could have been the author.”34
4.2 Date and place of composition
Today it is almost common opinion that John was written in the last decade of 1st
century. “The discovery of Gospel in Egypt, which have been dated from the first half of the
second century, requires the writing of the Gospel within the limits of the first century.” 35
Tradition places John in Ephesus. But the most probable place is Syria. The
Linguistic pattern of John leads us to think of “Greek speaking author in a Semitic
environment.”36
4.3 Purpose
• To create a conviction in the readers that Jesus is the Christ, Son of God.
• To refute Docetism.
• To win Jews of the Diaspora to faith in Jesus, the Messiah.
• For apologetical purpose.
30
Ibid., 190
31
Geoge R. Beasley-Murray, “John”, Word Biblical Commentry, Volume 36, (Waco: Texas: Word Books, 1987), P. 1xvi
32
Ibid., 1xvi
33
Eusebius, H.E. 3.14.7 citing in Ibid., 1xxvii
34
Merril C. Tenney, Ibid., 190
35
Everett F. Harrison, “The Gospel According to John”, The Wyclff Commentry, (Chicago: Moody press,1962), p. 1072
36
Kummel, Ibid, p. 175

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• For polemic purpose.
4.4 Readers
By the information so far we have, we can say that this Gospel might have
been written to the Jews and Gentiles who were under Hellenistic influences
nada lo to the Gentiles in Ephesus.
The prologue (1:1-18)
4.5 Central message
The main theme can be grasped in the prologue of the Gospel- “Logos, Pre-
existent, incarnate, rejected, yet revealed of God and giver of son ship to those who believe in
his divine mission.”37
It projects Christ’s pre-existence and his divine intervention to save the
mankind from sin and wrath, and to offer the way to eternal life for all those who believe.
Outline
Introductory events (1:19-2:11)
Early encounters in Jerusalem, Samaria & Galilee (2:12-4:54)
Healing and discourse in Jerusalem (5:1-47)
Further sings and discourses in Galilee (6:1-71)
Jesus at the feast of Tabernacles (7:1-8:59)
Further healing and teaching (9:1-10:42)
The death and the raising of Lazarus (11:1-57)
5. The Acts of the Apostles
5.1 Authorship
AS earlier, in the Gospel of Luke, we have already established the probability
of Luke as the author of Luke and Acts. Now we will see some of the internal and external
evidences.
Internal evidence:
37
Wilbert F. Howard, “The Gospel According to St. John”, The Interpreter’s Bible, (NY: Abigngdon Press, Nashville: 1952), p.463

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1. Both the books (Luke-Acts) were addressed to the same person “Theophilus”.
2. We see Luke picking up in Acts where he dropped in Luke 24; “Luke “resumes the
narrative at the point where Luke dropped it.””38
3. Certain passages were written in the first person plural, “WE”- “most plausible
they came from the pen of a companion of Paul.”39
4. By elimination of certain persons which were mentioned in Acts, Luke is the best
probability.
5. We can see Timothy did not accompany Paul on his trip from Philippi to Troas, but
went later.
6. Likewise if we consider the list in Colossians 4: 7-17 and Philemon 23-24-
Aristarchus can be eliminated as one of the list in Acts 20.
7. As Mark was mentioned in the third person in Acts, he is also eliminated. So,
therefore, traditionally, Luke stands out to be the best possibility.
External evidence:
The early church fathers attested this book. Even in the Western Church this
book is considered as Holy Scripture. “In the western Church Irenaeus regards Acts
as Holy Scripture and cites it as a Lucae de apostolis testfication.”40
Later on it
was included in Muratorian canon and Tertullian, Church father in Africa
mentions about as “commentary of Luke” and in Alexandria, Clement recognizes it
as in authentic Lukan writing. It was also found in Anti-Marcionite prologue.
5.2 Date and Place of Composition
As we have deduced that the Gospel of Luke might have been written after the
composition of Matthew and Mark, we can place the date somewhere after 62 A.D.
38
Merril C. Tenny, Ibid, p.232
39
I. Howard Maeshall, Tyndale New Testament Commentries, “The Acts of the Apostles”, (IVP, William B. Eerdmans Publishing
Company, England: Michigan: 1980), p. 44
40
G. H. C. Macgregor, “The Acts of the Apostle”, The Interpreter’s Bible, Vol. 1x , (Abingdon= Cokesbery Press, New York:
Nashville: 1954), p.5 citing in Against Heresies III; c.f also III.14.1fff

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The date of Acts is closely related with the Gospel of Luke as many see them as a
single volume i.e. Luke-Acts. As Acts ends with the story of Paul still active in
Rome and after two years of his arrival he was executed in the reign of Nero (A.D.
54- A.D. 68). The most probable date would be A.D. 75- A.D. 85.
Regarding place, we are uncertain. Traditionally, it is Rome, but there are
other possibilities like Ephesus and Antioch. So, we cannot be certain about the
place of composition.
5.3 Purpose
• To present a “Compromise”41
between the two different groups.
• To show the compromise in terms of Peter as representative of Jewish
Christianity and Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles.
• To present historical significance of primitive Christianity.
• For apologetic purpose.
• To present Paul’s work and mission.
• To give a “conformation”42
to the Gospel he wrote.
5.4 Readers
As the book is addressed to “Theophilus” which is a Greek name, we can infer
that the readers would be mainly Gentiles and Jewish Christians under Hellenistic influence and
also the churches in Rome, Ephesus and Antioch.
5.5 Central Message
The central message is to present the Christian beginnings, life and work of
Paul and also peter.
Outline
1. Acts can be divided into five main sections
2. Introduction (1:1-11)
3. The origin of the church Jerusalem (1:12-8:3)
4. The period of transition: Samaria (8:4-11:18)
41
Johannes Munck, “The Acts of the Apostles”, The Anchor Bible, (Doubleday & Company, Inc., NewYork: 1967), p. LV
42
I. Howard Marshall, Ibid., p.45

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5. The expansion to the gentiles (11:19-21:16)
6. (The Pauline mission: Antioch and the Empire)
7. The imprisonment and defence of Paul (21:17-28:31)
8. (Caesarea and Rome).
6. Pauline letters
Introduction:
All the Pauline letters can be categorized under seven sections.
6.1. Pastoral letters (1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus).
6.2. Prison letters (Philippians, Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon).
6.3. Pillar epistles (The Corinthian letters, Galatians)
6.4. Eschatological Epistles (The Thessalonians letters).
6.5. Romans
6.6. Hebrews
6.1. Pastoral letters
6.1.1 Authorship
Traditionally, the authorship of Pastoral letters was ascribed to Paul. There is one
view that these letters came from the “disciples” of Paul from the Pauline school of
thought, but there is no evidence as such. “However, there is no evidence that a
“school” of Paul existed after the apostle’s death.”43
We do not have any such
schools and we do not see them in any of early church father’s writings. “The early
church fathers have also had not mentioned any such schools.”44
F. c. Baur and H.
J. Holtzman ascribe these letters as “second century forgeries”45
because we can
find the differences in vocabulary from the Pauline thought and also the absence of
43
E. E. Ellis, Pastoral Letters”, Dictionary of Paul and His Letters, eds, Gerald F. Hawthrone, Ralph P. Martin, Daniel G. Reid,
(Illinios: IVP, 1983), p.659
44
Ibid., p. 659
45
Ibid., p.659.

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certain word usage by Paul. (“apokalyptō, energeō, kauchaomai, perisseuō,
hypakouō, phroneō”46
). But at the same time it is essential to accept that to forge
somebody’s writings is not easy. The other explanation is that with the age there
might be a variation in vocabulary and style of writing.
When we observe the similarities between the three letters, we can certainly be
sure that these letters were written by “same man under same general
circumstances.” 47
Though there are some differences in the letters, “They still bear
Paul’s name, and their connection with his known biography is sufficiently strong
to warrant their acceptance…”48
These letters were well acquainted to Justin
Martyr, Heracleon, Hegesippus, Athenagorus and Theophilus.
6.1.2 Date and Place of Composition
Most proponents agree that these letters were written during Paul’s first Roman
imprisonment. Some scholars suggest a date between A.D. 61- A.D. 180, yet another suggest
near A.D. 100. Some scholars who have seen them in Anti-Marcionite suggest a date between
A.D. 140- A.D. 180. By observing some similarities between Polycrap epistle (A. D. 135) to
Philippians and pastoral epistles- we can say that Polycrap was dependent on the Pastoral letters
by looking parallels in to the text. So a date before A. D. 135 is reasonable. This gives us a date
between A. D. 130- A. D. 150.
1 Timothy 1:3 suggests that the letter might have been written in Macedonia. 2
Timothy 1:8, 12; 2:9; 4: 6-7 suggests that it may have been written from the prison in Rome.
Titus 1:5 suggests, the letter was written from Crete. There is also argument that 2 Timothy
might have been written in Ephesian prison. However, 2 Timothy night have been written in
either of these two places.
6.1.3. Purpose
• To edify the church in Asia Minor.
46
Ibid., p.660.
47
Merril C. Tenny, Ibid., p. 335.
48
Ibid. p.333.

18
• To defend Christianity against “Judaizing segment”.
• To defend against Gnostic heresy.
• To defend against extreme ascetism.
• To present the doctrinal insights to the Church.
• To present his last days of his ministry.
6.1.4. Readers
The readers of these epistles are Gentiles, people in Asia. For Timothy and
Titus, it is the Church in Rome and in Crete respectively.
6.1.5. Central message
1Timothy:
The central message of 1Timothy is mainly the ecclesiastical affairs like worship,
appointing deacons, community relationships and to oppose heresies.
Outline
1. Paul and Timothy (1:1-20)
2. Worship and women (2:1-15)
3. Requirements for church officials (3:1-13)
4. Gods household (3:14-16)
5. Approaching threats (4:1-16)
6. Instructions about various classes (5:1-6:2)
7. Miscellaneous instructions (6:1-21)
2 Timothy:
The central message in 2 Timothy is encouraging and exhorting Timothy and warning
of false teachings that timothy should be opposing.
Outline

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Encouragement to be faithful (1:1-18)
Special advice to timothy (2:1-26)
Predictions and charges (3:1-17)
Paul’s farewell to timothy (4:1-22)
Titus:
The central message of Titus is the edification and exhortation of the
Church and the instructions regarding Church affairs reminding the implications of
the Gospel.
Outline
Greetings :-( 1:1-4)
The appointment of church officers (1:5-9)
How to deal with false teachers (1:10-16)
Instructions for various groups (2:1-10)
The doctrinal background for Christian living (2:11-3:8)
More warnings (3:9-11)
Concluding remarks (3:12-15)
6.2. Prison letters
6.2.1. Authorship
Introduction:
Traditionally, Prison letters were attributed to Paul. They undoubtedly had been
written during his imprisonment as we can see some passages in his epistles Phil. 1:12-13; Eph.
3:1; 4:1; 6:20; col. 1:24; Philem. 1. When speaking of the authorship, ofcourse, all the Prison
letters were traditionally well-accepted as Pauline. However, there are arguments regarding the
authorship, especially the book of Ephesians was often have to face the test of authority by
many scholars.

20
Philippians:
Internally the book vividly expresses that Paul is the author of the book. We can see
Paul’s genuine style, vocabulary and literary style in these letters which were well-accepted as
Pauline thought. Though there are some views which ascribe the authorship of the book to
Timothy by pointing Phil. 1:1, it is clear that it was written by Paul himself as we see the usage
of singular personal pronouns, “I”, “me”, “my” occurring 51 times. Apart having same terms,
like “bishop”, “deacon”, which would be of later development, the authorship of this epistle can
be ascribed to Paul himself. A scholar like F. C. Baur in his book Paul; the Apostle of Jesus
Christ which is a historical in its genre discredits all the epistles, their claims of authorship to
Paul except Romans. But this argument was not able to withstand and slowly “fell in to disuse
and essentially disappeared.”49
External evidence says that this letter was well-accepted by all the early Church
fathers without question- “Polycarp of Smyrna, Irenaeus, Clement of Alexandria, Tertullian and
others not only quoted from Philippians, but assigned it safely to Paul.”50
Ephesians:
Traditionally, this was well-accepted in the early Church. Modern scholars were
divided in their opinions regarding the authorship of this epistle. It is not until 19th
century, the
authorship of this book was challenged. F.C. Baur and later his followers challenged the
traditional claim of this book. However, his views were not convincing and it could not stand,
but still others argue that this book was the work of an imitator of Paul. Now we will evaluate
this view.
• Practically speaking, it is very difficult to imitate one’s style of writing.
• Paul’s way of Commenting “doctrinal truth and moral duty” is different for an imitator
to imitate.
4949
G. F. Hawthrone, “Philippinan, Letter to the”, Dictionary of Paul and his letters, (IVP, Illinois: England: 1993), p. 709
50
Ibid., p. 709

21
• We can also observe “a combination of authority and humility, privilege and
responsibility (both Pauline traits), as would be very hard to imitate effectively.”51
• Though we may not argue from the stand point of the differences in literary style and
usage of vocabulary, the book is more likely belongs to Pauline corpus.
The authorship of Ephesians was never disputed in the early church. It is
well-known in some heretical schools, “notably by the Valentinians and by Marcion,
and by several of apologists of 2nd
century.”52
This epistle is also included in
Muratorian canon.
Colossians:
Traditionally, the authorship of this Gospel is ascribed to Paul. We have to note that
the Church in colossae was not founded by Paul. The Church was founded by Epapharus one of
the Paul’s colleagues. By internal evidence, Paul is the writer of Colossians. He was mentioned
in Col. 1:1, Col. 1:23, and Col. 4:18. The objection comes from the differences in style and the
language of the letter when compared along the Pauline thought. But there are similarities
between this epistle to both Ephesians and Philemon. These similarities gives rise to question
that did Paul alone write this Epistle. “The first significance denial of Paul’s authorship in
recent times came in 1838 when E. T. Mageo hoff claimed to have found in Colossians
“unpauline thought.””53
Internally we see some of the terms which are to be the terms of the
later development in Pauline theology. The Gnosticism mentioned in this Epistle is of 2nd
century but this epistle is of 1st
century.
The relationship between Ephesians and Colossians gives some evidence regarding
the authencity of the authorship. It seems Colossians is a brief work which has been expanded
in the Epistle of Ephesians. Carson views this epistle as the “original letter which was brief
because of his imprisonment, but was later expanded by the author of the epistle to the
51
Francis Foulkes, “Ephesians”, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries,(IVP: William B. Eerdmans, England: Michigan: 1989),
p.46.
52
Francis W. Beare, “The Epistle to the Ephesians”, The Interpreter’s Bible, V.10, (New York: Abingdon Press, Nashville: 1953),
p.597.
53
Peter T. O’ Brien, “Colossians and Philemon”, Word Biblical Commentary, V.44, (Word Books, Publisher, Waco: Texas: 1982),
p.x1i.

22
Ephesians.”54
The early Church fathers accepted this epistle as a work of Paul. It was attested
by Irenaeus, Tertullian, Clement of Alexandria, Justin and also we can see this epistle in
Muratorian canon. As we have already established the author of Epistle to the Ephesians is
Paul, by above internal evidence we can presumably ascribe Paul as the author of Epistle to
Colossians.
Philemon:
Traditionally this epistle is ascribed to Paul. When we observe the style, literary
similarities, vocabularies and especially a topic on slavery, we can assume that the author of
Colossians is the author of Philemon. Ofcourse there are different views regarding the addressee
of this letter, it is not our task to establish to whom the author was writing. More so, this is a
very personal letter which has Paul’s personal stand on slavery. Keeping in view these premises
we may presumably say that the author of Philemon is Paul who wrote this epistle from the
prison.
6.2.2. Date and Place of Composition
Philippians was written during Paul’s Roman Imprisonment. But there are two
imprisonments that took place in Rome. One is Caesarea 56/58 and 58/60. We can give a most
probable date between A. D. 56- A. D. 63. Colossians was written during first imprisonment A.
D. 62 or A. D. 63. Ephesians was written in Rome during A. D. 60- A. D. 61. Philemon was
written in Rome most probably during the same time.
6.2.3. Purpose
Philippians:
• To extend his gratitude for the favor received.
• To promote Gospel and exalt the Lord through affliction.
• To exhort humility.
• To warn against confidence in the flesh.
• To appeal for the peace among brethren.
54
H. M. Carson, “The Epistle of Paul to the Colossians and Philemon”, Tyndale New Testament Commentary, (IVP, William B.
Eerdmans Publishing Company, England: Michigan: 1960), p. 12.

23
Colossians:
• To show the Gentiles were chosen by the Father through Christ.
• To stress upon “eternal connection between Christ, the head, and his body, the
Church.”55
• To call the church to be worthy of being one in Christ’s body.
• To emphasis on the unity of the Church.
• To appeal to live in peace both in Church and in family.
• To exhort to fight against temptation by putting the “armor of God.”
Ephesians:
• To emphasis on pre-eminence of Christ.
• To emphasis on supremacy of Christ.
• To emphasis on submission to Christ.
• To emphasis on Christ’s preeminence of Christ in redemption.
Philemon:
• To extend gratitude for the favor received.
• To defend on behalf of Onesimus.
• To request Philemon to accept Onesimus as his brother.
6.2.4. Readers
55
Kummel, ibid., p. 256.

24
Philippians was written to the Church in Philippi. Colossians was written to the
Church of Colossians. Ephesians was written to the Church of Ephesians. This letter is a
expanded version of Colossians. Letter to Philemon was addressed to a person Philemon.
Philippians:
Philippians is a note of thanks for the favor received and expression of Christian life of
Paul. The main theme of this book is pre-dominantly two topics. One is the good news that
Christ died for men; the other is the assurance that men could posses his righteousness before
God. These are the aspects of the Gospel.
Outline
1. Introduction (1:1-11)
2. Paul’s circumstances (1:12-26)
3. Instruction concerning Christian living and fellowship (1:27-2:18)
4. Future plans (2:19-30)
5. Spiritual ambitions (3:1-21)
6. Instructions, thanks and greetings (4:1-23)
Colossians:
The central message of Colossians is Paul’s Christology where he shows the pre-
eminence of Christ in relationships, doctrines and also ethics. Redemption is prominent in the
teaching of Colossians. Colossians shows that the Gospel has clear ethical consequences.
Outline
1:1 – 2 Paul’s greeting

25
1:3 – 8 Thanksgiving for faith, love, hope and the gospel
1:9 – 14 A prayer for knowledge and godly conduct
1:15 – 20 Jesus Christ, the Lord in creation and reconciliation
1:24 – 2:5 Paul’s mission and pastoral concern
2:6 – 15 The remedy for error: Christ in all His fullness
2:16 – 23 Freedom from legalism
3:1 – 4 Seek the things above
3:5 – 11 Put away the sins of the past
3:12 – 17 Put on the grace of Christ
3:18 – 4:1 Behavior in the Christian household
4:2 – 6 Final words of encouragement
4:7 – 18 Personal greetings and instruction.
Ephesians:
The central message of this epistle is the Church. This epistle was not written for the
novices in Christian faith, but to those, who having achieved some maturity in spiritual
experience, wished to go to fuller knowledge and life. Its goal is, at an outset given in 4:13-
unity of faith.
Outline
Address and salutation (1:1-2)
Paul’s thanksgiving and prayer (1:3-3:21)
Encouragement to live out the gospel of cosmic reconciliation and unity in Christ (4:1-6:20)
Postscript (6:21-24)
Philemon:
The central message of this epistle is Paul’s plea to Philemon to receive Onesimus as
his brother.
Outline
Paul’s greeting (1-3)

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Thanksgiving and intercession for Philemon (4-7)
Paul’s plea for Onesimus (8-20)
Final remarks and greetings (21-25)
6.3. Pillar Epistles
6.3.1 Authorship
1 and 2 Corinthians:
Traditionally both the letters are ascribed to Paul. “early external evidence from
the following confirms this conclusion: Clement of Rome, to the Corinthians, Polycrap, to the
Philippians (ch. 11), Iranaeus , Against Heresis, 4, 27 (45), clement of Alexandria (e.g.,
Paedag.1, 6[33]),
and Tertullian, de praescript. Adv. Haer., (Ch.33, 11:46).”56
By observing literary evidence and
also historical evidence it is more likely that 1 & 2 corinthians were written by Paul.
Internally we can see Paul’s acquaintance with city of Corinth- 1 Cor. 2:3. This is
corroborated with Acts 18:1. He ministered there for more than one and a half year. Now
regarding his acquaintance with the Corinth and his ministry and the external evidence that was
presented, we may agree with the possibility of Paul being the author of 1 & 2 Corinthians.
Here what “Robert and Plummer can say, “both the external and the internal evidence for the
Pauline authorship are so strong that those who attempt to show that the writers succeed chiefly
in proving their own incompetence as critics.””57
Galatians:
This epistle is traditionally ascribed to Paul. The Author himself reveals himself in Gal.
1:1 and Gal. 5:2. The style, vocabulary and theology that have been used strongly points out to
56
Henry Alford, Greek Testament, Vol.2, 5th
ed, (London: Reving tons, 1865), p. 46 citing in W. Harold Mare, “1 Corinthians”, The
Expositor’s Bible Commentary, V.10, (Michigan: Zondervan Publishing House, 1976), P. 179.
57
Archbald Robertson and Alfred Plummer, A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the First epistle of St. Paul to the Corinthians,
(T & T Clark, 1929; International Critical Commentary), p. xvi citing in Leon Morris, “The First Epistle of Paul to the Corinthians An
Introduction and Commentary”, Tyndale New Testament commentaries, (IVP, William B. Eerdmans Publishing company, Michigan:
1985), p. 5.

27
Pauline thought. “The nature of its theological argument, its distinctive use of scripture, the
character of its impassioned appeals, and the style of writing all point to Paul as its author.”58
Apart from having many doubts by modern scholars like Br. Bauer, R. Steek and J. Gloël, it still
stands the criticism. Bu the majority of the Scholars view this epistle as was written by Paul.
Almost all scholars view Galatians as the standard example of Paul’s style and theology. By
looking all these internal evidences and some of the arguments, the probability of Pauline
authorship is very high.
This was included in Marcion canon, Muratorian canon. “Polycarp in his letter
to the Philippians quoted it.”59
1 & 2 Corinthians:
By looking at Acts 19:1, we can say that Paul might have wrote 1 Corinthians after
three years of his departure from Corinthians to Ephesians i.e., 51- 55 A. D. The other
evidences for this date are the edict of Claudius and term office of Gallio (Acts 18: 2, 12) and
Paul’s departure from Corinth (Acts 18: 18). 2 Corinthians may have been written a year later
in Macedonia.
Galatians:
While regarding the date and the place of this epistle, one has to consider Northern
Galatians theory and Southern Galatians theory. The region of Galatia was divided in two
regions Northern Galatia and southern Galatia. There is no consensus regarding the destination
of this epistle among the scholars. Some argue that this epistle was written to Northern Galatian
territory and some Southern Galatian territory. On the basis of Northern Galatain territory, it
may have been written in Ephesus in 52 A.D. On the basis of Southern Galatian territory, it may
have written in 49-52 A.D. in Macedonia.
58
Richard N. Longenecker, “Galatians”, Word Biblical Commentary, Vol.41, (Word Books, Publisher, Dallas: Texas: 1990), pp.1vii-
1viii
59
Raymond T. Stann, “The Epistle to the Galatians”, The Interpreter’s Bible, (Abingdon Press, New York: Nashville: 1953), p. 442
citing in Banett, N. T. : Its Making And Meaning, p. 21. His earlier book, Pal Becomes a Literary Influence (Chicago: University of
Chicago Press, 1941), is thoroughly documented study of the early tradition and use of Paul’s letters.

28
6.3.3. Purpose
1 Corinthians:
• To give a response to the reports and to the questions rose.
• To instruct the church to live a good Christian life.
• To warn them against some doctrinal and moral sins.
• To instruct them in conducting an orderly worship.
2 Corinthians:
• To express his gratitude for receiving his instruction.
• To exhort them regarding the fund that Paul was planning to collect in order
to use it for the poor in Jerusalem.
• To prepare them for his next visit to them 2 Cor. 12:14; 13:1; 5; 11.
Galatians:
• To address some serious problems in the Church.
• To defend his apostleship.
• To defend himself against criticisms raised against him in the church.
• To present the superiority of the Gospel.
• To exhort the church to do good for all.
6.3.4. Readers
1 & 2 Corinthians:
Both the Churches in Corinth and also Ephesus.
Galatians:
As we are uncertain to whom this epistle was written, we cannot conclude the intended
readers. If Southern Galatian theory is considered, it was written for the congregation at

29
Antioch, Lystra, Derbe, Iconium, and others, Pisidian and Lycaonia. If Northern Galatian theory
is considered, it was written in Ephesus.
1 Corinthians:
1 Corinthians presents a better insight in to the problems of a pioneering church than
almost any other writing in N.T. each problem was met by applying a spiritual principle rather
than expanding in a long discourse. The problems like schism, fornication, libertinism, marriage
between a believer and a non-believer, virgins, food offered to the idols, the procedure of
worship, spiritual gifts and the resurrection of the body are dealt with in more practical way.
Outline
1. Author and recipients (1:1-3)
2. Christian approach to ministry in the church (1:4-4:21)
3. Moral issues (5:1-6:20)
4. Marriage problems (7:1-40)
5. Gospel obligation in a pluralistic world (8:1-11:1)
6. Orderly church life(15:1-58)
7. The resurrection of the Christian body (16:1-24)
8. Other business
2 Corinthians:
2 Corinthians affords an insight in to the carrier of Paul that none of the epistles
gives. It was written to defend himself against the criticisms of the Corinthian church. This

30
epistle is more personal which portrays feelings, desire, dislikes, ambitions and obligations of
Paul.
Outline
1. The preface (1:1-11)
2. Paul’s response to a crisis resolved (1:12-7:15)
3. The matter of the collection (8:1-9-15)
4. Paul responds to a new crisis. (10:1-13:14).
Galatians:
Galatians was a protest against corruption of the Gospel of Christ. Paul defends the
essential truth of justification of faith which has obscured by Jewish- Christians. It summarizes
the heart of the Gospel which he preached among the Gentiles.
Outline
1. Introduction: (1:1-10)
2. Paul’s Apostleship (1:11-2:21)
3. Paul’s gospel (3:1-4:31)
4. Paul’s commands (5:1-6:10)
5. Epilogue (6:11-18)
6.4. Eschatological Epistles
6.4.1. Authorship
Thessalonain Letters:
Traditionally these epistles are ascribed to Paul. Both are addressed to the “church
of Thessalonians”. In both the epistles we see the names of Paul, Silvanus and Timothy. Since
they are named together we can infer that they might be “joint-authors”60
of the Thessalonian
letters. So we may probably say that both Timothy and Silvanus might have contributed their
60
F. F. Bruce, “1 & 2 Thessalonians”, Word Biblical commentary, Vol. 45, (Word Book, Publisher, Waco: 1982), p. xxxii

31
part in both the letters. Now the question is- are they really acquainted with Paul? If so, when
and how they are related in Paul’s affairs?
Internal evidence:
We see Timothy joining Paul after Paul’s missionary journey to Syria and
Cilicia. In Acts 16:1, Timothy joins Paul at Derbe. In Acts 17:10, Silas accompanies both Paul
and Timothy. Timothy was Paul’s “aide-de-camp.”61
Silus was not Paul’s convert but he was
one of the “leading men among the brethren” Acts 15:22. So, in all likelihood, we can infer both
Silus and Timothy were joint authors of the letters to Thessalonica.
External Evidence:
These epistles were included in Marcion’s canon. It was also mentioned in
Muratorian fragment. It was quoted by Irenaeus. There are some disagreements on the
authorship of 2 Thessalonians. As there is a apocalyptism in the 2 Thess. scholars argue that it
was not written by Paul or by his joint-authors but was written by late Pauline diciple. Though
we may not decisively say the author was Paul or his joint-authors but with the attestation of
early church fathers and evaluating internal evidence, we can positively incline to the Pauline
authorship.
Traditionally, it is dated between A.D. 50 and A.D. 51. The mention of Emperor
Gaius attempt to set up his statue in Jerusalem in 2 Thess. 2:4 dates it A.D. 40 which was
supported by “Hugo Grotius”62
. This is somewhat plausible. Historically a great Judean famine
was recorded by the date A. D. 46 which was mentioned in 1 Thess. 2:16 as “wrath”. Buck and
Tylor identify the “wrath” of 1 Tess. 2:16 with the Judean famine of A. D. 46”63
. Other argues
that it might have been written between A. D. 60-67.
But this may not be the probable date as we do not see any explanation of Gnostics which was a
later development. The best probable date could be A. D. 40-50. Both the letter may have been
written in Athens.
61
Ibid., p. xxxvii
62
F. F. Bruce, Ibid., p.xxxiv.
63
Ibid., xxxiv.

32
6.4.3. Purpose
• To appreciate the Thessalonians faith.
• To give details about his own ministry.
• To instruct the church how to live a life pleasing to God.
• To explain the death of the believers.
• To explain the eschatological issue in the church.
6.4.5. Readers
The readers are Thessalonians church.
As Paul and his co-authors extended their “thanksgiving” for Thessalonians’ faith,
they emphasized on how to live a life pleasing to God, and explained more explicitly about the
“the day of the Lord”.
1 Thessalonains outline
1:1 Opening greeting
1:2 – 10 Opening thanksgiving
2:1 – 16 The behaviour of the missionaries in Thessalonica
2:17 – 3:13 Paul’s continuing concern for the church
4:1 – 12 Encouragement to ethical progress
4:13 – 5:11 Instruction and encouragement about the second coming of Jesus
5:12 – 24 Instruction for life in the church
5:25 – 28 Closing requests and greetings
2 Thessalonians outline
1:1 – 2 Opening greeting
1:3 – 12 Opening thanksgiving
2:1 – 17 Instruction about the day of the Lord
3:1 – 16 Instruction for life in the church
3:17 – 18 closing greeting

33
6.5. Romans
6.5.1. Authorship
Traditionally it is well-accepted as an epistle of Paul. The Pauline authorship is
generally accepted by NT scholars.
Internal evidence:
Paul reveals himself as the writer of this Gospel Rom 1:1. We can see his
conversion and the call and his consequent preaching in 1:1; 5; 12-17; 15; 15-24. He describes
himself as a Jew or Israelite 11:1 and also as an apostle to the Gentiles 11:13. However, some
scholars raised doubts regarding the interpretation of Ch. 16. Romans actually ends in Ch. 15
but has one more Chapter. But all the arguments are not conclusive. There are two letters that
were circulated that time one is up to Ch. 15 and is added with Ch. 16 and circulated. The close
affinity with 1 & 2 Corinthians, Pastoral Epistles in the literary, style and vocabulary points out
to Paul as the author of this Gospel.
According to Acts 20:6, we can say that this Epistle may have been written in Corinth
where Paul spent in his friend’s house Gaius who was a convert. The most probable date is
somewhere in the winter between A. D. 54- 59.
6.5.3. Purpose
• To present his missionary purpose to the Gentiles.
• For an apologetic purpose.

34
• To exhort the church in Rome.
• To let people know about his itinerant visits.
6.5.4. Readers
The intended readers are both the Jews and Gentiles Christians in Romans.
It is difficult to single out the whole theme of Romans as it speaks of different
topics like justification by faith, God’s faithfulness etc.
outline
1. The letter opening (1:1 – 17)
2. The gospel and the righteousness of God by faith (1:18 - 4:25)
3. The gospel and the power of God for salvation (5:1 - 8:39)
4. The gospel and Israel (9:1 - 11:36)
5. The gospel and the transformation of life (12:1 - 15:13)
6. The letter closing (15:14 - 16:27)
6.6. Hebrews
6.6.1. Authorship
This is placed and regarded as one of the Pauline corpus. It is difficult to ascribe the
authorship of this epistle to Paul as the internal and external evidences do not coordinate
mostly. We do not see Paul introducing himself in this epistle. We cannot say conclusively to
whom this epistle was addressed. But traditionally this was well-accepted by Clement of
Alexandria Origen but not without recognizing the difficulties attached to the view. The most
probable authors, apart from Paul are Luke, Barnabas, Clemet of Rome and Apollos. Now
regarding the affinity between this epistle and the Luke- Acts, we can probably say that it may
have been translated or edited from Hebrew to Greek by Luke or Clement of Rome. The Greek
of Hebrew is more polished than that of Paul where as Paul’s Greek is very rough which we do

35
not see in the book of Hebrew. Based on the above views we cannot for certain be sure who
wrote this epistle.
As there are some quotations of the book of Hebrew in 1 Clement, we can say this epistle
was written by 1 Clement which is precisely A. D. 70. So, it must be before A.D. 70. Internally
there are some verses that indicate persecution, if they are taken literally then it should be dated
around A.D. 60. Most probable date is 60-70 A.D. it must have been written in somewhere out
of Jerusalem.
6.6.3. Purpose
• To present the Superiority of the Christ.
• To warn the readers from the dangers of discarding their faith.
• To exhort the Christian walk of faith.
• To present Christ both as king and priest.
• To present the new covenant.
• To define the faith of the Patriarchs.
• To exhort to practice Christ’s endurance.
• To exhort love in the social and religious realms.
6.6.4. Readers
We do not have enough evidences to conclude where this epistle was written.
Christ is sovereign and superior to all the prophets, priests, kings, and angels who
replaced the old covenant by his sacrificial redemption. The church is obligated to the

36
implications of his sacrifice by the endurance of faith and exercising love in both social and
religious realms.
Outline
Introduction Gods final word (1:1-4)
The son and the angels (1:5-2:18)
Jesus as a merciful and faith full high priest (3:1-5:10)
Jesus the perfected high priest n the order of Melchizedek and source of(5:11-10:39)
Faith and endurance (11:1-12:13)
Appeals for a god- honouring life-style (12:14-13:25)
7. James
7.1. Authorship
Traditionally this epistle was ascribed to James, the brother of Jesus, son of Joseph and
Mary (Mk 6:3; 1 Cor. 15:7; Gal. 1:19). But there were men who bear the same name like James,
the son of Zebedee, James, the son Alphaeus, James, the younger, son of Mary, James, the
father of Judas. Among these, James, the son of Zebedee and James, the brother of the Lord are
most probable. Though we many not conclusively say that it was James, the Lord’s brother but
it is more likely that he had written.
7.2. Date and place of composition
Traditional view of dating this epistle is A. D. 40-60. Though some scholars argue on
much late date as A.D. 150, while considering this epistle as pseudonymous. One can observe
social environment, we can infer a date before destruction of the temple. There are no elements
of 2nd
century heresies. A.D. 40-60 is most applicable.
7.3. Purpose
• To exhort all the Jews who were scattered.

37
• To guide the Jews in faith in times of test and temptations.
• To give a proper understanding on hoe to relate with wealthy and poor.
7.4. Readers
The readers of this epistle were most probably Jewish- Christians.
7.5. Central message
A strong faith in testing times and temptations and implication of faith and the
assurance of Christ’s return is the theme of the this epistle.
Outline
Greetings: - (1:1)
Opening words (1:2-27)
Testing through generosity (2:1-26)
Testing through the tongue (3:1-4:12)
Testing through wealth (4:13-5:6)
Conclusion: - (5:7-20)
8.1 Peter
8.1. Authorship
In the beginning of this epistle, author claims himself to be “peter, an apostle of Jesus
Christ” (1:1). We can also see that the author says he was a “witness of Christ’s suffering”
(5:1). But the question remains. Merely looking internally we can decisively conclude Petrine
authorship. The Petrine authorship is long been disputed because of , the good Greek style and
vocabulary, some scholars doubt “Peter” as a Pseudonym, Its use of Lxx, it is not mentioned in
the Muratorian canon. The good Greek style and vocabulary has made many scholars to doubt
Petrine authorship as we know the author was “illiterate” and “unable to write”. The word that
has been used is “agrammatos” has a wider meaning in Greek which means uneducated and

38
perhaps lacking expertise concerning the law in a Jewish context. We can infer that the author,
as he was a Gentile, may be uneducated concerning the things of the law and therefore he was
“unlearned” as mentioned in Acts 4:13. Most of the Gentiles during the period were familiar
with the Greek, and mostly the Gentile converts used to refer LXX mostly. We cannot simply
deny the Petrine authorship on more basis of not including in Muratorian canon. The other
possibility of the good Greek is because of Silavanus of whom Peter states that he wrote epistle
“with the help of Silas, a faithful brother” (5:12). This Silvanus is undoubtedly a reference to
“Silas” of Acts 15:22 and 1 Thess. 1:1. As we know Silas is the colabourer of Paul and
Timothy, there is every possibility of being influenced b them. It is most probable that Peter
took the help of Silvanus while writing this epistle.
8.2. Date and Place of Composition
There are different views to suggest a date and place of composition of this epistle.
If we accept the Petrine authorship and on the basis of Paul’s departure from Rome in A.D. 62
(cf. 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus), it is more likely that this epistle might have been written between
62 and 63 A.D. in Rome or Galatia. Traditionally also, taking into consideration 1 Pet. 2:1-17. It
may be dated before A.D. 64.
8.3. Purpose
• To encourage the readers to grow in their trust and faith in God.
• To point out the reader to the work done by God in Christ.
• To make readers to realize the obligations of God’s work.
• To exhort readers to trust in God in their suffering.
8.4. Readers
The readers are mixed group of Jewish and Gentile Christians in the Roman
province.

39
Faith, obedience and patience in social life in relation to God and in suffering for
the cause of Christ’s sacrifice which makes a believer to be obligated to lead a holy life.
Outline
1. The writer greets his readers (1:1-2)
2. God’s plan of salvation was mad known to us.(1:3-9)
3. How our salvation was made know to us (1:10-12)
4. What our salvation involves in everyday living (1:13-5:7)
5. Such salvation attracts opposition, but faith guarantees the victory (5:8-11)
6. Personal greetings (5:12-14)
9. 2 Peter
9.2.1. Authorship
It is very difficult to ascribe the authorship of this Epistle to Peter as there are
differences between 1 & 2 Peter linguistically. Traditionally the authority of this epistle was
inconclusive. It is poorly attested by the early church fathers.cwe cannot conclusively say that it
was written by Peter, but it is widely accepted throughout the churches. It is not rejected as
spurious anywhere in the church. So, it is not possible to conclude or decisively say anything
about this epistle. Though we may not decisively say it was not written by Peter, the epistle still
has the apostolic spirit.
As 2 Pet. 3:15-16 clearly indicates that the second epistle of Peter must have been
written after a good number of Pauline letters. Traditional, if Petrine authorship is accepted then
it is 60-68 A.D. 2 Peter is used in the Apocalypse of Peter which might have been published
shortly by 64-68 A.D. To fix a place is not an easy task, but we presumably say it was written in
Rome as it is Peter’s favorite choice.

40
9.3. Purpose
• To epitomize the faith of the apostles.
• To give apologetic for the false teachings.
• To arouse Christians about the faith in Christ.
• To exhort about Parusia of Christ.
9.4. Readers
It is not clear to whom the epistle was written, most probably the same readers of 1
Peter.
A Christian show grow in Christ, and there will be dangers of false teaching,
and a Christian should overcome them in anticipation of Christ’s return.
Outline
The writer greets his readers. (1:1-2)
A cal to spiritual growths (1:3-11)
Reasons for emphasizing these things (1:12-2:22)
A reminder of the coming of the Lord (3:1-16)
A call to be steadfast and grow; peter ascribes the glory to God (3:17-18)
10. Johannine Epistles
10.1. Authorship
As I have already defended the traditional view of the authorship of the John’s Gospel,
because of it close affinity with Johannine epistles presumably conveys that these written by the

41
same “beloved disciple”. They were also attested by the early church fathers like Iranaeus,
Paolycarp , Ignatius etc. But it does not take away the confusion of the author as there are other
John’s living in that same time. There are two possibilities to who we can attribute authorship
of these epistles. 1) John, the elder, 2) John, the evangelist. Traditionally, “the elder” in the
early church is considered as an apostle. In Papias reference in interpretation of the oracles of
the Lord, he refers two Johns- one among the 12 disciples and other as “presbyter”. A number
of scholars have said that the reason why Papias mentions two John’s is because as John was
alive out of all disciples, he had to be listed in the disciples and also among those who were still
alive. But still these views are inadequate to conclude the authorship of epistles of John, but the
evidences we have, are more included to John “the beloved disciple”, “the presbyter and the
elder”.
1 John might have been written between 90-110 A.D, if we assume the authorship of Gospel of
John to this epistle and regarding the place we can only guess it as to be in Syria. 2 & 3 John
might have been written at the same time.
10.3. Purpose
1 John:
• To warn against heretical teachers who have arisen in the Christian Churches.
• To defend against Gnosticism and Docetic Christology.
• To defend against the heresy of Cerinthus, this appeared at the end of the 1st
century in Asia Minor.
2 John:
• To warn the congregation against false teachings who deny the
incarnation of Christ.

42
• To command the congregation to enter into no kind of relationship
with such people.
3 John:
• To command Gaius to continue his hospitality and not allowing himself to be
hindered by Diotrephes.
10.3. Readers
1 & 2 John was written to the Church in Syria. 3 John was written to Gaius.
1 John:
The reality of life revealed through the incarnated “logos”, which also gives to the
readers fellowship with God. A person should abide with ethical implications Christological
doctrine.
Outline
Prologue (1:1-4)
Fellowship with God (1:5-2:6)
The New commandment (2:7-17)
The Christian and the anti Christ (2:18-27)
Children of God (2:28-3:10)
Love one another. (3:11-18)
Confidence (3:19-24)
The spirit of truth and the spirit of false hood (4:1-6)
God is love. (4:7-21)

43
Faith’s victory (5:1-5)
The witness to the son (5-6-12)
The knowledge of eternal life (5:13-21
2 John:
The apostle John had seen Truth and Love firsthand- he had been with Jesus. So affected
was this disciple that all of his writings, from the Gospel to the book of Revelation, are filled
with this theme: Truth and love are vital to the Christian and are inseparable in the Christian
life. This letter was written to encourage true Christian love and to warn against deceivers who
might deny that Jesus Christ was truly human.
Outline
1. Salutation (1-3)
2. The command to love (4-6)
3. Sound doctrine (7-11)
4. Conclusion (12-13)
3 John:
The theme of this epistle is hospitality toward brethren.
Outline
1. Salutation-1
2. Following the truth -2-4
3. Hospitality- 5-8
4. Diotrephes and Demetrius- 9-13
5. Conclusion- 13-15
11. Jude

44
11.1. Authorship
Traditionally, this epistle is ascribed to Jude. He is the “brother of James”. Looking
at some of the internal evidences, the literary style of the book Jude, we can infer the author was
like a Jewish-Christian, fro he knows Jewish apocalyptic writings. His poor Greek usage rises a
doubt whether he is the brother of James or not. So, we can presumably say that Jude, the
brother of James is the author.
Jude might have been written at the end of the 1st
century as terminus a quo, i.e. 125
A.D.
11.3. Purpose
• To defend against libertine, Gnostic and false teachers.
• To admonish the readers to hold fast to the faith which was done for all
delivered to t he saints.
• To defend against Docetic Chrsitology.
11.4. Readers
We do not know for certain, but it is written for the Gentiles.
The main theme of Jude is the sin and dooms of Godless men and at the same time a
call to preserve one’s faith.
Outline
1. Opening address & greetings (1-2)
2. Challenge to hold firm to the faith (3-4)
3. Reminder’s of God’s punishment of past obedience (5-7)
4. Denunciation of false teachers (8-13)
5. The relevance of Enoch’s prophesy (14-16)

45
6. The Christian antidote (17-23)
7. Closing commendation and ascription of praise.(24-25).
12. The Apocalypse of John
12.1. Authorship
As I have already mentioned in the Gospel of John that John wrote this book while he
was in exile in the Isle of Patmos. He directs the letter as a circular letter to the seven churches
in Asia Minor. The plain name “John” points out to a personality known to all. By this we can
assume that this John who was a well-known personality in the early church. But there are other
views about the authorship of this Gospel. Most of the scholars have set aside the possibility of
John, the son of Zebedee as the author of this epistle.
Dionysius pointed put great linguistic and stylistic differences between the Apocalypse,
on the other hand, and John and the Johannine epistles on the other hand.
This book itself presents the persecution of Christians, so we can infer that it might have
been written during Dominitian’s reign between 81-96 A.D.
12.3. Purpose
• To give a unique picture of Christ.
• To present Christ as the mighty ruler of the cosmic forces of good.
• To describe the imminent end-time beginning in his present with materials
containing traditional conceptions.
12.4. Readers
The seven churches of Asia Minor

46
The main theme of this epistle is the kingdom of Rome which is metamorphically
presented as Satan and how God, through Christ overthrows the Satan and establishes his
Kingdom on the earth. On the other hand it also presents the eschatological happenings of the
end times.
Outline
1. The prologue (1:1-8)
2. The call of John to prophesy (1:9-20)
3. The letters to the seven churches (2:1-3:22)
4. A vision of heaven (4:1-5:14)
5. The seven seals (6:1-8:5)
6. The seven trumpets (8:6-11:19)
7. The conflict between the church & the power of evil (12:1-14:20)
8. The seven cups of wrath (15:1-16:21)
9. The reign and ruin of the city of the antichrist (17:1-19:10)
10.The revelation of the Christ and of the city of God(19:11-22:5)
11.The epilogue (22:6-21)

47
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Alford ,Henry Greek Testament, Vol.2, 5th
ed. London: Reving tons, 1865).
Beare, Francis W “The Epistle to the Ephesians”, The Interpreter’s Bible.V.10. New
York: Abingdon Press, Nashville: 1953.
Beasley-Murray, Geoge R “John”, Word Biblical Commentary, Volume 36.Waco: Texas:
Word Books, 1987.
Bruce, F. F. “1 & 2 Thessalonians”, Word Biblical commentary.Vol. 45. Word
Book, Publisher, Waco: 1982.
Carson, H. M “The Epistle of Paul to the Colossians and Philemon”, Tyndale
New Testament Commentary. IVP, William B. Eerdmans
Publishing Company, England: Michigan: 1960.
Eusebius Ecclesiastical History 3.39.
Georg Kümmel, Werner Introduction To The New Testament. Translated by A.J. Mattil, Jr.
New York: Nashville: Abingdon press,1966.
Gilmour , S. Maclean “The Gospel according to St. Luke”, The Interpreter Bible. NY:
Nashville: Abingdon= Cokesbury Press, 1952.
Hale ,Thomas The Applied New Testament Commentary. East Bourne: Kingsway
Publication,1996.
Harnack, Adolph Luke the Physician.Translated by J.R. Wilkinson. Crown
Theological Library. London: Williams and Norgate; New York:
G.P. Putnam’s sons, 1907.
Harrison,Everett F. “The Gospel According to John”. The Wyclff Commentry. Chicago:
Moody press,1962.
Iraneus, Adversus Haereses. I I I, i. 2.

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Kent ,Homer A “The Gospel according to Matthew”, The Wycliff Bible
Commentary, eds, Charles F. Pfeiffer, Everette F. Harrison.
Chicago: Moody Press, 1962.
Lampe ,G.W.H “The Gospel of Luke”, Peak’s Commentary on the Bible, eds,
Matthew Black, H.H. Rowley. Nairob: Nelson, 1962.
Longenecker ,Richard N “Galatians”, Word Biblical Commentary, Vol.41. Word Books,
Publisher, Dallas: Texas: 1990.
Mare ,W. Harold “1 Corinthians”, The Expositor’s Bible Commentary, V.10.
Michigan: Zondervan Publishing House, 1976.
Morris, Leon “The First Epistle of Paul to the Corinthians An Introduction and
Commentary”. Tyndale New Testament commentaries. IVP,
William B. Eerdmans Publishing company, Michigan: 1985.
Nollan, John “Luke 1-9:20,” Word Biblical Commentary, V. 5A. Texas: Word
Book, Publisher, 1989.
O’ Brien,Peter T “Colossians and Philemon”, Word Biblical Commentary, V.44.
Word Books, Publisher, Waco: Texas: 1982.
Robertson, Archbald A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the First epistle of St.
Paul to the Corinthians. T & T Clark, 1929.
Stann ,Raymond T “The Epistle to the Galatians”, The Interpreter’s Bible. Abingdon
Press, New York: Nashville: 1953.

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