James: Teaches that true faith is evidenced by works, although salvation is by faith alone.

I Peter: A letter of comfort and encouragement to believers, especially those suffering from spiritual attacks from without through unbelievers.

II Peter: A warning against spiritual attacks from within. For example, false teachers who had already gained position in the church.

I John: Written to combat Gnosticism which denied Christ's position as Son of God and Son of Man. Emphasizes fellowship and love among believers and assures true believers of eternal life.

II John: Warns against any compromise with doctrinal error and emphasizes that truth be guarded in love.

III John: Warns of the sin of refusing fellowship with those who are true believers.

Jude: Another warning against apostasy and false doctrine. The theme is similar to that of II Peter.

EPISTLE GROUPS

These can also be grouped by...

Books Concerning Christ's Return: I and II Thessalonians

Books Emphasizing The Gospel: Romans, Galatians, I and II Corinthians

Books Written By Paul In Prison: Ephesians, Colossians, Philippians, Philemon

Pastoral Letters: These Books focus on practical matters of church leadership and organization: I and II Timothy and Titus.

General Epistles: The remaining Epistles

APOSTASY

"Apostasy" is a term with which you should be familiar as you survey the epistles. This word means "to depart from the faith." In several of the epistles the writers deal with the problem of apostasy in the church.