Writing the New Testament
John Launchbury
In defense of Paul. Acts finishes at an intriguing point in time. Paul is under arrest awaiting a trial for his life. Luke (the author of Acts) leaves us wondering what happened next. What did happen next? And why ever did Luke stop his account here?
Constitutional crisis. The fledgling early church nearly tore itself apart because of deeply held but different understandings by liberal and conservative sub-communities. Handling this provoked Paul not only to write Galatians, but provides us with useful insights into how to handle corresponding issues today.
Primary witness. Personal witness to the life, work, and resurrection of Jesus was considered vital in the early church. Much of the New Testament was provoked by the value given to personal testimony.
The view from heaven. The revelation visions provide an interesting perspective on issues facing the first century church. Their language and assurances are picked up and reflected by a number of the authors.