Books of the New Testament Summaries: Letters of Paul

Romans

The apostle Paul wrote the book of Romans as a letter, or epistle (a formal letter sent to a group of believers), to the Christians in Rome. He had not yet visited them but wanted to encourage them to stay strong in their faith.

In this letter, Paul explained how wonderful God is for sending Jesus to die for our sins. He emphasized that we cannot earn our salvation (deliverance from sin and its consequences), and we do not deserve to be saved on our own merits.

In the Garden of Eden, God established that the penalty for sin is death. Since everyone has sinned, everyone deserves this punishment. It would not be fair for God to simply overlook our sin, yet He still wanted to save us. Jesus died on the cross in our place to resolve this conflict. Because Jesus was God living as a sinless man, His sacrifice paid the debt we owed. When we obey the gospel (the good news of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection), Jesus’ blood washes away our sins so we can be right with God. This was God’s plan from the very beginning.

The book of Romans also guides us on how we should live as Christians. In chapter 12, Paul instructed believers to show pure love and hate what is evil. He listed many practical things a child of God should do.

Paul wrote that Christians must obey government laws, unless those laws force us to break God’s commands. He also commanded his readers to love one another and do good. We must ‘put on the Lord Jesus Christ,’ which means we should act just as Jesus would if He were living our lives.

Paul told the Romans to support one another during tough times. Sometimes we can help others when they feel weak. For example, we can comfort someone who is sad, or help them with tasks they cannot do alone.

Paul ended the letter with a warning to stay away from people who teach false things and cause division. When people divide the church, they fight against God. We must not encourage them. Although Romans can be a difficult book to read, you will find it highly rewarding over time.

Lessons from Romans

• God sent Jesus to die for us, even though we did not deserve His love.
• Jesus took away the penalty of sin that we deserved to pay.
• As God’s children, we must love others genuinely and stay busy doing God’s work.
• We must avoid divisive people who teach false doctrines.

1 Corinthians

Paul wrote 1 Corinthians to the church in Corinth, a wicked city filled with idol worship. The local Christians faced many struggles as they tried to serve God in such a corrupt environment. Paul wrote this epistle (letter) to fix several serious problems within the church. Since he mentioned “the things of which you wrote,” we know he was answering specific questions the Corinthians had sent him.

First, Paul urged the church not to divide into small groups but to stand united. He also explained that God’s wisdom is far superior to human wisdom, even though the world thinks God’s word is foolish. This remains true today, as many people still fail to see the value in God’s teachings.

During the first century, the Holy Spirit gave some Christians miraculous gifts. These included speaking in unstudied languages, healing the sick, and preaching direct revelations from God. Since we now have the complete Bible, these temporary gifts are no longer needed. Paul instructed the Corinthians on how to use their spiritual gifts orderly, warning them not to look down on others who did not have them.

Paul was also gathering money from various churches to help starving Christians in Judea. He praised the Corinthians for their willingness to help and instructed them to collect these funds on the first day of the week—Sunday. This is why churches still collect weekly contributions on Sunday today.

Because Corinth was so corrupt, Paul taught the Christians how to remain morally pure. He commanded them to stop behaviors that displeased God and harmed the church’s reputation. Though surrounded by wickedness, they were called to live holy lives. Paul warned that if they did not fix these problems, he would have to be very stern when he arrived.

Lessons from 1 Corinthians

• You can live a pure life even when everyone around you acts wickedly.
• Christians must remain united and avoid dividing into factions.
• God’s wisdom is far better than the wisdom of the world.
• We must help fellow Christians when they are in need.
• Avoid actions that dishonor God or harm the reputation of His church.

2 Corinthians

Paul wrote this second letter to the church in Corinth to build on his previous instructions. As new believers in a wicked city, these Christians struggled to leave their old, sinful habits behind. Paul wrote to tell them how happy he was about the positive changes they had made, encouraging them to keep growing.

However, some critics in Corinth were attacking Paul’s character. They claimed he was not a true apostle (an official messenger sent by Jesus) like Peter or the original twelve. Paul defended his ministry by urging them to look at his actions, his teachings, and his deep love for them.

Paul also reminded them to finish collecting the funds for the starving Christians in Jerusalem. He encouraged them to give generously, reminding them that “God loves a cheerful giver.” Every correction Paul made was driven by love and a desire to see them saved.

Lessons from 2 Corinthians

• You can please God even if you live in a very wicked place.
• It is possible to change from a sinful life to a godly life.
• As Christians, we must never stop growing in our faith.
• God loves a cheerful giver who helps others from the heart.
• Sometimes we must lovingly correct others to help them stay on the right path.

Galatians

The book of Galatians was written to Christians in Galatia, a region in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). Many of these believers had previously followed the Old Testament law. Some false teachers were convincing them that they had to keep Old Testament rules, like circumcision, to be saved. Paul strongly warned that trying to follow the Old Law for salvation actually separates a person from Christ.

Paul explained that the Old Testament law served as a temporary guardian. Its purpose was to prepare the people for the arrival of Jesus. Now that Christ has come, believers are no longer under the Old Law.

To show his authority, Paul described how Jesus personally revealed the gospel (good news) to him. After his conversion, Paul spent three years in the desert before meeting the other apostles in Jerusalem.

Paul also shared a story of how he had to correct Peter. Peter had stopped eating with Gentile (non-Jewish) Christians to please a group of strict Jewish visitors. Paul confronted Peter publicly because Peter’s actions were hypocritical and did not align with the gospel. Even strong leaders make mistakes and need loving correction.

Ultimately, Paul explained that anyone can become a child of God through faith and baptism into Jesus. If we are Christians, our lives should produce the fruit of the Spirit, such as love, joy, and kindness. We must avoid sinful habits like lying and selfishness, and never grow tired of doing good.

Lessons from Galatians

• Follow Jesus, not the rules of the Old Testament law.
• The Old Testament was designed to point us to Jesus.
• Even good Christians make mistakes and must be willing to change when corrected.
• We become God’s children through active faith in Christ.
• A Christian’s life must be filled with good works and the fruit of the Spirit.

Ephesians

Paul wrote Ephesians to the church in Ephesus, likely around the same time he wrote Colossians. The letter begins by praising Jesus, who is supreme over all earthly powers and stronger than Satan. Paul explained that Jesus is God in human form, and that He paved the way to heaven for all who obey Him.

Paul described the church as God’s kingdom on earth. The existence of the church shows God’s incredible wisdom. Despite Satan’s best efforts and the opposition of powerful rulers, Jesus successfully built His church and won the victory.

Because of this victory, Christians must live in unity. Paul urged believers to be kind, patient, and helpful to one another. He also commanded them to put off their old, sinful lifestyles and put on a new, godly character. God’s commands are designed to give us the best life possible.

The letter also gives instructions for Christian families. Paul commanded children to obey their parents, which brings God’s blessing. He also compared marriage to the relationship between Christ and the church. A husband must love his wife sacrificially, just as Christ loved the church, and a wife should respect her husband as the church respects Christ.

Finally, Paul urged the Ephesians to put on the full armor of God. This spiritual armor protects us from the temptation and attacks of Satan. By relying on God’s strength and praying constantly, we can stand strong against evil.

Lessons from Ephesians

• Jesus has total authority over all powers on earth and in the spiritual realm.
• Christians must work together in unity and peace.
• God’s rules protect us and help us live a fulfilled life.
• Children must respect and obey their parents.
• Husbands and wives must love and respect each other, mirroring Christ and the church.
• We must use God’s spiritual armor to resist Satan’s temptations.

Philippians

Philippians is known as the letter of joy. Even though Paul was in a Roman prison when he wrote it, he filled the letter with calls to rejoice in the Lord. He was happy because the gospel was spreading and the Philippian Christians were staying faithful.

Paul urged the Philippians to be humble and put others ahead of themselves. He pointed to Jesus as the ultimate example of humility: Jesus gave up His heavenly glory to serve and die for us. To follow Him, we must reject selfishness and serve those around us.

Paul also reminded the believers to shine like lights in a dark, sinful world. Even when facing persecution, they could have joy because of God’s love. Paul shared his personal focus: forgetting past failures and reaching forward toward the prize of heaven.

Sadly, Paul warned against those who became enemies of Christ by focusing on earthly desires instead of heaven. He urged the Philippians to pray about everything instead of worrying. By giving their worries to God, they would experience a peace that protects their hearts.

Finally, Paul gave a powerful key to mental purity: fill your mind with things that are true, honorable, pure, lovely, and good. What we watch, read, and listen to shapes who we are. Feeding our minds with impure things pollutes our souls, while focusing on the good helps us live godly lives.

Lessons from Philippians

• Choose to rejoice, even in difficult circumstances.
• Follow Jesus’ example of humility by serving others.
• Shine as lights in a dark world by living distinctively.
• Forget past mistakes and keep reaching for heaven.
• Trade worry for prayer to receive God’s peace.
• Protect your mind by focusing on pure and wholesome thoughts.

Colossians

Paul wrote Colossians to the church in Colosse while in prison, around the same time he wrote Ephesians. This letter focuses on the absolute supremacy and sufficiency of Christ. Paul explained that Jesus is more powerful than any earthly ruler, and His wisdom far exceeds human philosophy.

Paul warned the believers not to be deceived by worldly philosophies that ignore God. Some teachers used intellectual-sounding arguments to lead people away from the truth. God’s wisdom is simple, powerful, and complete in Christ.

Paul also warned against trying to follow the Law of Moses (the Old Testament law given to Israel). When Jesus died, the Old Law was nailed to the cross and came to an end. Paul made it clear that we cannot please God by trying to keep Old Testament rituals.

Instead, Christians must set their minds on things above and put to death sinful habits. Paul warned against outward, showy religion that does not change the heart. Real faith changes how we treat others, leading us to forgive one another just as Christ forgave us.

Finally, the letter applies Christ’s teachings to the home. Wives, husbands, and children are all commanded to love and obey in ways that honor God. Paul also urged them to be wise in how they behave around non-Christians, speaking words that are kind, helpful, and filled with grace.

Lessons from Colossians

• Jesus is supreme over all creation and human wisdom.
• Do not follow human philosophies that contradict God’s word.
• The Old Testament law has ended; we live under Christ’s new covenant.
• Set your heart on heaven and put away worldly sins.
• Forgive others quickly, remembering how much God has forgiven you.
• Be a godly example to those who do not know Christ.

1 and 2 Thessalonians

Paul wrote two letters to the young church in Thessalonica. These Christians faced immediate persecution after obeying the gospel. Despite being mistreated, they stood firm and became an inspiring example to believers across Greece. Paul had been forced to leave the city quickly, but he was thrilled to hear they had not given up.

In 1 Thessalonians, Paul focused heavily on the second coming of Jesus. He warned that Jesus will return suddenly, like a thief in the night. Because of this, Christians must live in constant readiness, knowing that God will save His people and punish the wicked.

In 2 Thessalonians, Paul encouraged them to keep growing in faith and love, even under continued trials. He corrected a misunderstanding about the end times, warning that false teachers were spreading rumors that Jesus had already returned. Paul urged them to hold fast to the truth they had been taught.

Finally, Paul addressed a practical problem: some members had stopped working. They claimed that since Jesus was returning soon, they did not need to work, expecting others to feed them. Paul commanded the church to avoid these lazy individuals to encourage them to repent, famously writing that if someone refuses to work, they should not eat.

Lessons from 1 and 2 Thessalonians

• Stay faithful to God even when people treat you badly for your faith.
• Be ready at all times for the sudden return of Jesus.
• Never stop growing in your faith and love for others.
• Learn the truth so you will not be deceived by false teachings.
• Work hard and avoid laziness, taking responsibility for your needs.

1 and 2 Timothy

Timothy was a young evangelist who traveled and worked closely with Paul. Paul loved him like a son and wrote these two letters to guide, warn, and encourage him. In 1 Timothy, Paul focused on how Christians should conduct themselves in the local church.

Paul provided Timothy with instructions for public worship and the qualifications for church leaders: elders (spiritual overseers) and deacons (servants of the church). He also taught Timothy how to handle different relationships in the congregation and how to find true contentment in life.

In 2 Timothy, Paul wrote from a dark Roman prison, knowing his execution was near. He urged Timothy to stay faithful despite persecution and warned him about false teachers who would turn people away from the truth. Paul’s dying request was for Timothy to “preach the word” at all times, whether convenient or not.

These letters are highly encouraging, especially for young believers. Paul reminded Timothy that young people can do great things for God and urged him to be an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. He emphasized that deep Bible study is essential to spot error and remain faithful.

Lessons from Paul to Timothy

• Know how to behave properly in the church family.
• Seek and support qualified leaders in the church.
• Stay faithful to God, even when others oppose or harm you.
• Study the Bible diligently to defend the truth against false teachings.
• Young people can lead and serve in powerful ways.

Titus

Titus was another young preacher and close companion of Paul. Paul wrote this short letter to Titus to guide his work on the island of Crete. Crete was known for its dishonest and lazy culture, and Titus had the difficult task of appointing elders (leaders) in every congregation to keep the churches strong.

Paul instructed Titus to teach sound doctrine to every group in the church: older men, older women, younger women, and younger men. He emphasized that good works are the natural result of salvation. Titus was to be a pattern of good works, showing sincerity, integrity, and reverence (deep respect and awe for God).

Paul also urged Titus to teach the truth with authority. This would protect the church from false teachers who claimed to know God but denied Him by their actions. Titus was to instruct the Christians to be gentle, law-abiding, and peaceful citizens.

Lessons from Titus

• God’s word has practical instructions for people of every age and role.
• Be a positive role model in your actions, especially when you are young.
• Show deep respect for God in both your worship and daily life.
• Stand up for the truth with humility and wisdom.

Philemon

Philemon is Paul’s shortest and most personal letter. It was written to a Christian in Colosse named Philemon concerning his runaway slave, Onesimus. In the ancient world, runaway slaves faced severe punishment, including death. However, after fleeing to Rome, Onesimus met the imprisoned apostle Paul, heard the gospel, and became a Christian.

Although Onesimus was helpful to Paul, Paul knew he needed to make things right. He sent Onesimus back with this letter, pleading with Philemon to receive Onesimus not as a slave, but as a beloved brother in Christ.

Paul even offered to personally pay back anything Onesimus had stolen. He urged Philemon to show mercy, demonstrating how the gospel breaks down social barriers. Through Christ, master and slave were now equal brothers.

Lessons from Philemon

• Treat all fellow Christians as equals and beloved family members.
• Resolve difficult conflicts with honesty, humility, and love.
• Trust that God can work through bad situations to bring about a good outcome.