In our previous study we dealt with the Old Testament, showing the logical order in which the various books are placed where they are. Like the Old Testament books, the ones of the New Testament are also not necessarily in chronological order, but are grouped together in a logical order. When this is understood, our study of these great books will be enhanced. Halley, in his Bible Handbook observes, "The Old Testament is the account of a nation. The new Testament is the account of a  man. The Nation was founded and nurtured of God to bring the Man into the world." Let us now consider the books of the new Testament.


THE GOSPELS
These are four in number, and contain the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The first three are synoptic in nature, dealing with more or less the entire life of Jesus. John's gospel is not synoptic, dealing only withe the last few weeks of his life. Good commentaries, Bible dicitonaries or other Bible helps concerning the possible dates of writing of each book should be consulted. Knowing these dates, and why each book was written are all vital in understanding much of the New Testament.

MATTHEW - JOHN
    Set forth Jesus as:
        1. Messiah.
        2. Master.
        3. Man.
        4. God.

    Contain:
        1. Birth of Jesus.
        2. Personal ministry of Jesus.
        3. Selection of the apostles.
        4. Preview of the Kingdom of God.
        5. , burial and resurrection of Jesus.


EARLY HISTORY OF THE CHURCH

ACTS
    Main contents:
        1. Coming of the Holy Spirit.
        2. Establishment of the church.
        3. Spread of the early church.
        4. Conversions.
        5. Paul's Journeys.


LETTERS OF PAUL

ROMANS - HEBREWS
    1. To churches:
            a. For correction of internal problems.
            b. Regulations for work and worship.
            c. Regulations to holy living.
    2. To individuals:
            a. Instructive.
            b. Encouragement.

GENERAL EPISTLES

JAMES - JUDE
    1. Writers: James, Peter, John, Jude.
    2. Content: General in nature.

APOCALYPTIC

REVELATION
    1. Contains:
            a. Visions of John.
            b. Encouragement.

            c. Letters to seven churches.
            d. Persecution at the hand of Rome.
            e. Final triumph of Christ.
            f. Judgment scene.
            g. Previews of the heavenly home.
                                          - Bill Moseley