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Pauline letters

biblical literature

Quick Summary

The Pauline letters are a collection of 13 letters in the New Testament traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul. While only seven are considered entirely authentic, these letters offer crucial insights into early Christianity. Written between 20 and 30 years after Jesus' crucifixion, they primarily addressed practical questions and theological issues faced by the early churches Paul had founded.1234

Key themes include the relationship between Christianity and Judaism, the role of the Law, justification by faith, and the imminent return of Christ. Letters like Romans and Galatians delve into the Law and justification, while others, such as 1 and 2 Corinthians, focus on issues within Gentile Christian communities. The earliest New Testament book, 1 Thessalonians, addresses eschatology. The Pauline corpus, collected and circulated by the end of the 1st century, significantly shaped Christian theology and practice.1563

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