Important Issues in the Non-Pauline Churches

Important Issues in the Non-Pauline Churches

Rev. Darren M. Neal Sr.

Grand Canyon University

BIB 502

January 29, 2014

Dr. Andy Wood

Introduction

The apostleship of Paul's ministry and his teachings are very clear to the readers of the early church and of today. The framework of how its presents the kingdom module and the prophecies of the Second Coming of Christ Jesus has a profound effect upon the Church. The Church has a good idea of its functions and its role. However, from the inception of the "General Epistles" (James, Peter, John, Jude, Hebrews, and Jude) that accompany the prior "Pauline Epistles", the Church begins to question its place within the grand scheme of things. But the General Epistles are an integral part of the Doctrine of Jesus Christ. This paper will outline and discuss the important issues that presented themselves to the Church.

Hebrews

The Book of Hebrews, while sometimes credited to Paul, has an unknown author. "In more recent times, some scholars have advanced a case for the authorship of Hebrews belonging to Priscilla" (Wikipedia, 2014). Whomever wrote this particular letter used it to demonstrate the kingship of the Christian religion in each Believer's life. It suggests that each Christian should live a totally holy lifestyle because we have been transformed by the Perfect Sacrifice of Christ Jesus. The author states, "And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once and for all" (Hebrews 10:10, NIV). The author deals with this and other issues by the use of encouragement to them. He institutes this by calling for perseverance from the members of the Church and he ensures that this form of faithfulness is what Christ Jesus expects of us. He encourages to continue to follow Jesus faithfully and to not return to their former state. The author states,

"Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water" (Hebrews 10:19-22, NIV).

James

James, the brother of Jesus, is considered to be the author of the Book of James. Just as in the Book of Hebrews, the issue of proper Christian living presents itself. James admonished the Church for its unsavory character. However, his argument was that after their conversion to Christianity they should have been more mature Christians than they were. He continues his admonishment by stating that they were to be both doers and hearers of the Word of God. James states, "Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves" (Hebrews 1:21-22, NKJV). He further expounds upon the fact that they should be slow to anger and should not speak abruptly. "If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one's religion is useless" (Hebrews 1:26, NKJV). James offers a solution to their issues by stressing that they live separate lives from the rest of civilization, rely on Jesus Christ for victory over the flesh, and be extremely considerate to those people that are less fortunate.

1 and 2 Peter

Peter was both one of Christ Jesus's closest and trusted companions and the author of both letters entitled Peter. Both of these letters were written to address the issue of harassment received from non-Christians and to stress that they ensure the receipt of proper knowledge of the Scriptures concerning Christ Jesus and His return. In 1 Peter, Peter encourages the Church to continue forward in faith that Jesus is just and faithful to defend them. He follows the theme of perseverance that is polarized in each of epistles--Pauline and non-Pauline. Peter states,

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through