INTRODUCTION: 2 Peter

The last book we'll be studying this year is 2 Peter. Unlike 1 Peter, this book is not focused on how to live in a world of persecution, but rather how to live in a world without the Apostles in it. As the lives of Paul and Peter - the two great leaders of the Christian church after the Ascension - were coming to an end, the Church needed to understand that Christianity was bigger than any sinful, human leader. Check out the Bible.Org introduction for more information.

Peter was about to die. Not only would this motivate him to get the letter finished, it served another purpose as well. With Paul gone, these Gentile churches lost their apostolic witness to the faith. If Peter were to die, then a second apostolic witness would die with him. Although he had only ministered to them in writing, this important link with the apostolic faith would be gone. Not only this, but with the continuing and widening persecution from Rome against Christians, there was still the danger of apostasy. Though Peter could not prevent his death, he could reassure his audience that his death was within the sovereign plan of God. Hence, in the very statement about his coming death, Peter tells his audience that it was prophesied by Jesus (1:14-15). Thus this letter served both as a last will and testament, and as an encouragement for the Christians to remain true to the apostles’ teaching (cf. 3:2, 15-16), even though there would be no living voice left. It is not insignificant that Bauckham, who denies authenticity to this letter, still sees a similar purpose/occasion: “In the relatively new and largely unexpected situation of the Christian church after the death of the apostles, [the writer] assures his readers that they are not disadvantaged as Christian believers who do not have personal access to the apostolic eyewitnesses . . .

Who is the author of 1 Peter?

While it may seem like a trick question, some scholars over the millennia have questioned the authorship of 1 Peter for various reasons. But current Evangelical scholarship is fairly united that the apostle Peter wrote 1 Peter. It is interesting to think a man who started out life as a simple fisherman wound up writing one of the most influential books of all time (inspired by the Holy Spirit, of course)

The author identifies himself as the apostle Peter (1:1), and the contents and character of the letter support his authorship (see notes on 1:12; 4:13; 5:1-2,5,13). Moreover, the letter reflects the history and terminology of the Gospels and Acts (notably Peter's speeches). Its themes and concepts reflect Peter's experiences and his associations in the period of our Lord's earthly ministry and in the apostolic age. That he was acquainted, e.g., with Paul and his letters is made clear in 2Pe 3:15-16 (see notes there); Gal 1:18; 2:1-21 and elsewhere. Coincidences in thought and expression with Paul's writings are therefore not surprising.

From the beginning, 1 Peter was recognized as authoritative and as the work of the apostle Peter. The earliest reference to it may be 2Pe 3:1 (see note there), where Peter himself refers to a former letter he had written. 1 Clement (a.d. 95) seems to indicate acquaintance with 1 Peter. Polycarp, a disciple of the apostle John, makes use of 1 Peter in his letter to the Philippians. The author of the Gospel of Truth (140-150) was acquainted with 1 Peter. Eusebius (fourth century) indicated that it was universally received.

INTRODUCTION: 1 Peter

Unlike Hebrews, there is little doubt as to who wrote 1 Peter. But like Hebrews, 1 Peter is very much focused on how a Christian lives in a hostile world. Check out John McArthur's introduction to this brave and fearless book.

When the city of Rome burned, the Romans believed that their emperor, Nero, had set the city on fire, probably because of his incredible lust to build. In order to build more, he had to destroy what already existed.

The Romans were totally devastated. Their culture, in a sense, went down with the city. All the religious elements of their life were destroyed—their great temples, shrines, and even their household idols were burned up. This had great religious implications because it made them believe that their deities had been unable to deal with this conflagration and were also victims of it. The people were homeless and hopeless. Many had been killed. Their bitter resentment was severe, so Nero realized that he had to redirect the hostility.

The emperor’s chosen scapegoat was the Christians, who were already hated because they were associated with Jews, and because they were seen as being hostile to the Roman culture. Nero spread the word quickly that the Christians had set the fires. As a result, a vicious persecution against Christians began, and soon spread throughout the Roman Empire, touching places N of the Taurus mountains, like Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia (1:1), and impacting the Christians, whom Peter calls “pilgrims.” These “pilgrims,” who were probably Gentiles, for the most part (1:14,18; 2:9,10; 4:3), possibly led to Christ by Paul and his associates, and established on Paul’s teachings. But they needed spiritual strengthening because of their sufferings. Thus the Apostle Peter, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, wrote this epistle to strengthen them.

A Seminarian's View of Hebrews

Some of you may have found this month's introduction to Hebrews especially interesting, and may want to know more. If so, consider the iTunes U free course on the Theology of Hebrews which offers a Seminary-level overview of the course.

It is offered free of charge by Westminster Theological Seminary. Check it out!

The Theology of the Book of Hebrews

As we study the book of Hebrews, it will be helpful to understand the grand story that the write is trying to tell. What is the theology of the book of Hebrews? What point is he trying to make?

The theological epicenter of the Epistle to the Hebrews may be summed up in one word: Christology. No biblical document outside of the four Gospels focuses as totally and forcefully on the person and redemptive achievement of Jesus. Likely this factor more than any other secured its prominent place in the early church's canon of Scripture in spite of doubts concerning its apostolic origin in the West (Carthage and Rome) prior to the fourth century. Eastern Christendom appears to have regarded it as Pauline from the beginning.

INTRODUCTION: The Book of Hebrews

John McArthur has produced an excellent introduction to Hebrews which outlines many of the basics of this fascinating and challenging book. Click on over!

When the various NT books were formally brought together into one collection shortly after A.D. 100, the titles were added for convenience. This epistle’s title bears the traditional Greek title, “To the Hebrews,” which was attested by at least the second century A.D. Within the epistle itself, however, there is no identification of the recipients as either Hebrews (Jews) or Gentiles. Since the epistle is filled with references to Hebrew history and religion and does not address any particular Gentile or pagan practice, the traditional title has been maintained.

Be careful what questions you ask!

FROM DR. RON: Introduction to the Gospel of John

Dr. Ron Fay is a former Trumbull Quizzer from back in the days when Coach Mark and Coach Matt were competing. In the days since then, his love of the Bible has lead him to a PhD in New Testament Greek with a specialty in the works of the apostle John. He is now the Chair of the Johannine Literature Study Group for the Evangelical Theological Society, and a pastor at Cornerstone Community Church.

We start off our new series "FROM DR. RON" with his introduction to this year's book.

The Gospel of John is one of the simplest yet profound works in the New Testament. John weaves together stories from the life of Jesus in order to create a beautiful tapestry of theological depth. Using words like light, darkness, water, hour, and truth, John builds upon each section of his gospel until the significance of each passage can only be understood in light of the rest of the book.

John begins “in the beginning,” making an intentional parallel to Genesis. As the Spirit hovered over the unformed world so did Jesus enter into a darkened world, unformed spiritually. He was sent as the light of the world, and so darkness ran from him and did not and could not understand him. He was sent to his enemies in order to make them more than friends, to make them family, children of God.

John’s purpose in writing is to answer two questions: 1) who is Jesus? 2) why should I care? The answer to Jesus’ identity is more spectacular than the other Gospels in many respects due to the theological richness of John’s language and his use of the Old Testament as a comparison to Jesus. Everything done in the Old Testament Jesus does even better. He is the better Moses (the lifted up language, the feeding of the 5000), he is a better Elijah (raises the widow’s son), and instead of holding onto someone’s authority he comes in his own Name. As the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) tend to focus on Jesus’ followers when Jesus goes off alone, John supplements them by following Jesus instead.

In terms of the book itself, John breaks into two main parts. The Book of Signs contains chapters 1:19- end of chapter12, and the Book of Glory, containing 13-20. 1:1-18 is the introduction and chapter 21 is the conclusion or postscript. The Book of Signs is called that because it contains the seven signs John uses to show who Jesus is. The Book of Glory is called that because it contains Jesus’ teaching about himself and his final glorification through death and resurrection.

As you read through John, look at the repeated words. Keep a list of them as you go in order to see the themes John interweaves in his story. John truly is a master of his craft in illuminating the person of Jesus, using the Old Testament, describing memorable scenes, and answering the two questions.

Who is Jesus? God incarnate, the sacrificial lamb, the one who died and rose again.

Why should I care? Because he did this in order that you might repent, believe, and become an adopted child of God.

2010-2011 Season: Bible Quizzing Intro

Do you have a friend or relative that you want to invite to join the team, but are not sure where to start? Why not print out this hand-dandy Bible Quizzing intro for 2010-2011 which answers the most common questions that a newbie (and their parents) might have. This is the same document that is normally handed out at the Kickoff Meeting, updated for this upcoming season.

2010-2011 Season: Bible Quizzing Rules

As you prepare for the next year, you may wish to brush up on the "official" Bible Quizzing rules. These are actually the rules for 2008-2009, but not too much has changed. And as soon as we have the newest version of the rules, we will get them out to you. The general scope, breadth, and high level details have not changed.

2010-2011 Season: Keywords

We learned toward the end of last year that keywords (a.k.a. once-used words, words used only one time over the entire book(s) we're studying) can be a very helpful resource in studying and quizzing. So, we also have the list of keywords for the gospel of John for your reference.

2010-2011 Season: Reference Questions List

Continuing our parade of resources, we next up have the official reference question list for the gospel of John. Remember, in a quiz you need to be able to finish the question and furnish the answer, if the quizmaster doesn't read the whole question aloud.

2010-2011 Season: Finish the Verse List

Last year, we had to wait a while before getting some of the resources offered us by the District, but this time around we have everything we need in our grubby little hands. If you want to get the Finish-the-Verse list early, so you can start preparing for the next season grab it here or click on the image below.

2010-2011 Season: The Gospel of John

Okay, you've had two weeks to let your brains relax from Nationals and then start to get back in shape with some news articles. Now, here is your chance - if you choose - to start preparing for next year. Please note, any preparation prior to the kickoff is purely voluntary. Don't forget to enjoy this beautiful summer!

But first, for the 2010-2011 season, we will be studying... {{drum roll}}... THE GOSPEL OF JOHN.

If you'd like to kick off your studies of John with a review of the history, background, and theology of John, consider checking out this summary of the book offered by Zondervan. If you're in the mood for an audio-visual experience instead, consider renting the Gospel of John DVD instead - it is NOT in the NIV version but it is still a good way to get familiar with the events of the book.

ANNOUNCEMENT: Bible Quizzing Kickoff - September 2

Mark your calendars! The annual Bible Quizzing kickoff date has been set. The kickoff meeting, as always, is a chance for quizzers, parents, and interested potential new quizzers to get a taste for what quizzing is about and to ask question of the coaches.

WHO: Parents and their Students in 7th-12th Grade
WHEN: September 2nd 7pm-8:00pm
WHERE: Round Room/Missions Room

Introduction to Luke

Now that the month of August is upon us, and the kickoff event has been announced, some quizzers may be ready to start looking into the Gospel of Luke. If you were here two years ago, you already know this Gospel was written by the same author and written to the same publisher (Theophilus). If you are interested in learning some more details about this book, you may wish to check out the NIV Study Bible introduction to the book. It lays out the authorship, probably date of publication, and themes that run throughout the book.

DID YOU KNOW: Introduction to Ephesians

As we begin our study of Ephesians, you may want to click over to the Bible.Org introduction to the book which summarizes the major points of authorship, purpose, and theology.

While Paul was sitting in prison, contemplating his upcoming trial and potential work in the west, he began formulating some parting comments to make to the churches of Asia Minor. As he dialogued with his amanuensis over its contents, a rough draft of Ephesians was probably put together in outline form. The amanuensis then began to fill in the details.

Then, startling news from the east came: there was a new heresy in Colossae which was infecting the church there. At about the same time, Onesimus appeared before Paul with his confession of abandoning and robbing his owner, Philemon.

At this juncture, Paul decided several things: (1) write to the Colossians with appropriate warnings, though taking the material mostly from a letter which already addressed some of the very same issues in a larger perspective; (2) write to Philemon, urging him to take Onesimus back, as a freeman—and even to prepare a room for the apostle himself; (3) finish the letter to all the churches in Asia Minor and have it sent with the other two letters.

Click on over for many interesting facts regarding the letter to Ephesus.