Books of the New Testament with Description

Matthew

Emphasizes Jesus’ Humanity; Characterized by a man

Mark

Emphasizes Jesus’ Actions; Characterized by a lion

Luke

Emphasizes Jesus’ sacrifice; characterized by an ox

John

Emphasizes Jesus’ sacrifice; characterized by an eagle

Acts

Key events in early church, coming of Holy Spirit, and Missionary Journeys

Romans

Emphasizes justification (declared righteous) by faith, legal language

1 Corinthians

Deals with variety of ethical problems

2 Corinthians

Final advice in series of letters (some having been lost), Paul opens his heart

Galatians

letter to a region; condemns Judaizers; emphasizes freedom in Christ

Ephesians

Emphasizes Grace; Put on Armor of God, Shield of Faith

Philippians

highlights Christ as out strength

Colossians

Christ is supreme, all things are made through him, set mind on things above

1 Thessalonians

Emphasis on Hope in midst of trials; Jesus will return

2 Thessalonians

Don’t lose hope, didn’t miss Jesus’ return; Man of Lawlessness comes first

1 Timothy

Pastoral advice for tender young man serving church in Ephesus

2 Timothy

More pastoral advice for tender young man who was like a son to Paul

Titus

pastoral advice for a tough Greek believer serving church in Crete

Philemon

Personal letter asking fellow believer to receive back his runaway slave

Hebrews

Unknown author, famous for its “Hall of Faith” chapter, running the race

James

Written by brother of Jesus, emphasizes that true faith will bear fruit

1 Peter

Apostle offers encouragement in time of suffering

2 Peter

Apostle gives final words of exhortation knowing he is about to be martyred/killed

1 John

Letter opens with emphasis on walking in light

2 John

Letter addressed to elect lady and her children

3 John

Letter addressed to Gaius

Jude

Author is “servant” of Jesus and brother of James; turn from false teaching

Revelation

Letter to 7 churches, uses Jewish apocalyptic language and 7s to describe events