Item number three on our list of Seven Faith Practices is “read and study the Bible.” Each week we, as a congregation, will be reading one chapter from a book of the Bible. Currently, we are reading the non-Pauline Epistles.
We will continue with our “one chapter per week” schedule. I hope you will consider joining us as we practice our faith!
Our reading schedule is as follows: for the week starting…
Faith Practice #3 Reading Schedule...
June 9 – James 1
June 16 – James 2
June 23 – James 3
June 30 – James 4
July 7 – James 5
July 14– 1 Peter 1
July 21 – 1 Peter 2
July 28– 1 Peter 3
August 4 – 1 Peter 4
August 11 – 1 Peter 5
August 18 – 2 Peter 1
August 25 – 2 Peter 2
September 1 – 2 Peter 3
September 8 – 1 John 1
September 15 – 1 John 2
September 22 – 1 John 3
September 29 – 1 John 4
October 6 – 1 John 5
October 13– 2 John
October 20 – 3 John
October 27 – Jude
The non-Pauline epistles are the New Testament letters that were not written by the Apostle Paul. These letters are sometimes referred to as the "Catholic" or "Universal" Epistles, because they were not written to specific churches or individuals but rather to a wider audience. They include Hebrews, James, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, and Jude. (The book of Hebrews was our Faith Practice reading in 2024, so we will be focusing on the rest this time.)
Here's a general overview:
James: Traditionally attributed to James, the brother of Jesus, though its authorship is debated. James argues that true faith is evidenced by good works, emphasizing that faith without action is dead or incomplete. The author calls believers to live out their faith authentically and practically, demonstrating their love for God and neighbor through obedience, wisdom, and compassionate action.
1 Peter and 2 Peter: Both letters, attributed to Peter the Apostle, encourage believers to persevere in their faith and live faithfully in the face of persecution and false teachings. 1 Peter emphasizes hope and holy living amidst suffering, 2 Peter focuses on combating error and preparing for Christ's return.
1 John, 2 John, and 3 John: All three are attributed to John the Apostle. They provide instruction and encouragement for believers to live in fellowship with God, adhere to sound doctrine, love one another, and support the spread of the gospel, while also warning against the dangers of false teachings and divisive behavior.
Jude: Attributed to Jude the brother of James. Jude writes to equip believers to recognize and resist false teachers, remain steadfast in their faith, and live out their calling as followers of Christ while awaiting his return.
These non-Pauline letters offer different perspectives on Christian life and theology compared to the Pauline epistles. They address various issues and concerns within the early church, providing valuable insights into the development of early Christian thought.
