When studying the Bible, it doesn’t take long before we recognize it contains different genre or styles of writing. There are historical narratives, moral dictations, praise and adorations, laments, and prophecies. Each with its own shape and purpose. An important genre of biblical literature is the epistles, or letters, of the New Testament. There are 29 letters in the New Testament (counting the apostolic letter to the Gentiles [Acts 15:23-29] and the seven letters to the churches of Asia [Rev 2-3]). These letters comprise a distinctive style of literature that we must consider when studying them.

Letters were occasional, meaning the writers wrote them in response to a specific occasion or need. Understanding the occasion that prompted a letter, aids our interpretation. For example, Paul wrote Philemon as a letter of recommendation for Onesimus. Ungodly people perverting God’s grace compelled Jude to warn Christians to “contend for the faith.” Knowing these situations allows us to interpret the books through the flow of the arguments meant to address the issues.

Letters allowed people to be in several places at once. Paul may have been in prison, but he could encourage the church at Philippi and strengthen the churches of Colossae and Laodicea. Peter fortified the faith of Christians all over the Mediterranean world. Epistle writers intended for the teaching in the letters to carry the same weight and authority as they taught in person.

Letters allowed writers to apply Christian theology to real-world situations. When churches divided over race relations, Paul reminded them that the gospel is for all. As Christians faced trials, James wrote to bolster their faith, saying trials strengthened their trust in God. This allowed letters to record the practical side of theology.

Therefore, as we study the letters today, we should consider their occasion, authority, and practical application to our real-world situations.