Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about christian scriptures and epistles.
What exactly are the Christian scriptures and epistles?
They are the sacred texts central to Christianity, split into the Old Testament (creation, Israel's history, and the prophets) and the New Testament (the Gospels, Acts, the Epistles, and Revelation). The Epistles specifically are a set of letters from apostolic figures to early house-churches, addressing doctrine, ethics, and community life.
Who are the main figures a reader should know?
Jesus of Nazareth is the focal point of the entire New Testament narrative. Among the writers, Paul of Tarsus stands out as the most prolific author, while Peter, John, James, and Jude each contributed letters that carry their own distinct voice and emphasis.
Where should a newcomer begin reading?
Most guides suggest starting with the Gospel of Mark for a tight, fast-paced account of Jesus's ministry, or the Gospel of John for a more reflective, theological portrait. From there, moving into one or two Epistles (such as 1 Corinthians or Romans) helps ground the narrative in practical teaching.
How many books are in a typical Bible?
The Protestant canon contains 66 books—39 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New. Catholic and Orthodox Bibles add a handful of deuterocanonical texts (like Tobit or Maccabees), bringing the total to 73 or 76 depending on the tradition.
What is the difference between the Old and New Testaments?
The Old Testament traces creation, the patriarchs, the law, Israel's kings, and the prophetic voices up to the exile and return. The New Testament picks up with Jesus's life and death, the birth of the early church, and the apostolic letters that shaped its identity.
Who was Paul and why do his letters dominate the New Testament?
Paul, originally a Pharisee who persecuted the early movement, underwent a dramatic conversion and went on to found or shepherd churches across the Mediterranean. He authored thirteen of the twenty-seven New Testament books, and his arguments on grace, faith, and the relationship between Jew and Gentile shaped much of later Christian theology.
What are the four Gospels and how do they differ?
Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John each narrate Jesus's ministry, teachings, crucifixion, and resurrection but from different angles and for different audiences. Mark is the shortest and most urgent; Matthew emphasizes fulfillment of Jewish prophecy; Luke highlights compassion for the marginalized; and John leans into deep theological reflection.
What are the recurring core themes across the scriptures?
Covenant, redemption through sacrifice, and the call to love neighbor as oneself thread through both testaments. The New Testament adds the specific claims of resurrection, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and an eschatological hope for a renewed creation.
How was the canon of scripture actually decided?
There was no single council that voted the list into existence; rather, over roughly four centuries, widespread liturgical use, apostolic attribution, and theological consistency guided which writings were read as authoritative. The final boundaries were confirmed at councils such as Hippo and Carthage in the late fourth century, with minor variations persisting between traditions.
What are some of the most notable or frequently discussed passages?
The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), the crucifixion and resurrection narratives, Paul's letter to the Romans (especially chapters 1-8), the Parable of the Prodigal Son, and the apocalyptic imagery of Revelation are among the texts most often studied, quoted, and debated across centuries of Christian thought.