Journal #9 (Called to share the Good News: The New Testament Letters) by Patrick Roy

1. What was the major topic of this chapter?
The one major idea of this chapter is that we are called to share the good news though our knowledge and understanding of the Epistles. This chapter highlights how early Christians used the Epistles to spread God's word to keep the faith and remain faithful to God and Jesus' teachings. This understanding of the Epistles allows us Christians now to see how the early Christians remained faithful to God throughout their struggles and it also gives us the strength to persevere through ours as well. This chapter highlights how we can persevere through our troubles after we see how the early Christians did in much worse times, and the Epistles convey great struggle they had to endure to us now in the present. 2. Write about two major ideas you want to remember. Write a short paragraph on each clearly stating the idea and then telling why you want to remember it.
One key idea I would like to remember from this chapter is the letter to the Colossians. Collosae in Prhygia was both a magical and mysterious place. The Collosians were turning towards cults and away from Christianity because of what they had to offer. Paul told them that they were like a 'young plant that was still growing and hadn't borne fruit yet. He said that they shouldn't consider themselves perfect because this could only lead to judging those considered not perfect'. With obedience to God's spirit, they are to extend love and support to each other so that all can grow toward perfection in Christ.

Another idea I would like to remember is the section of Paul's Letters which was focussed on the Body of Christ. Grace filled Jesus Christ's entire body and gave him strength to perform his amazing words and his wonderful actions. Jesus talked of justice during his ministry and the importance of equality among all. Probably the most important message found in Christ's Body was that of the Passion and the cross. Jesus tells us that suffering is a part of life and through his suffering, victory is accomplished to life over death and light over dark. Those who are faithful are the ones who see the true love and Passion of Christ.
3. One image that captures the chapter for you.

The Epistles
4. One significant question you have from this chapter. It can be intellectual or personal.
Why would an author of an epistle give credit to some other author for writing it?