Understanding New Testament Letters

The video explores the 21 New Testament letters, written by apostles to early Christian communities. It discusses the historical, cultural, and situational contexts of these letters, emphasizing their countercultural nature in the Roman Empire. The letters address specific issues within the early church, such as divisions over Jewish laws. The video also highlights how these teachings can be applied today, offering wisdom for cultural transformation.

What is the primary purpose of the letters found near the end of the Bible?

• To provide historical accounts of Jesus' life

• To offer guidance to Jesus' followers in the Roman Empire

• To describe the creation of the world

• To list the laws of the Roman Empire

What is the first level of historical context to consider when reading the New Testament letters?

• The personal lives of the apostles

• How the letters fit into the larger biblical narrative

• The cultural practices of the time

• The political structure of the Roman Empire

What promise did God make to Abraham according to the biblical narrative?

• That he would become a king

• That he would live forever

• That his descendants would spread life and blessing to all nations

• That he would conquer the Roman Empire

What was a key characteristic of Roman culture during the first century?

• Universal education

• A clear social hierarchy

• Democratic governance

• Equality among all citizens

How did the early Christian communities differ from Roman society?

• They avoided any form of written communication

• They focused on accumulating wealth

• They had a strict social hierarchy

• They treated everyone with love and equal dignity

What specific issue was addressed in Paul's letter to the Romans?

• Controversies over Jewish food laws and sacred days

• The construction of new churches

• The expansion of the Roman Empire

• The role of women in society

What was causing divisions in the Roman church according to Paul's letter?

• Disagreements over the location of the church

• Conflicts between Jewish and non-Jewish followers

• Disputes over church finances

• Arguments about the Roman Emperor

What is the main takeaway for modern readers from the New Testament letters?

• They provide a detailed history of the Roman Empire

• They offer wisdom on how the good news can transform modern culture

• They list the laws that should be followed today

• They describe the daily life of the apostles

Why is it important to follow the flow of thought in the New Testament letters?

• To memorize the letters

• To learn the ancient languages

• To understand the apostles' personal lives

• To grasp the full message and teachings

What is the final step in understanding the New Testament letters?

• Memorizing the letters

• Learning the original languages

• Following the flow of thought from beginning to end

• Visiting the historical sites