1. Introduction

Many books in the New Testament are letters written to churches or individuals. These include letters written by the apostle Paul and other biblical writers.

The letters address real situations, teach doctrine, correct errors, encourage believers, and provide instructions. Some passages explain what believers should understand, while others address particular problems or circumstances.

When studying a biblical letter, we should identify the issue being discussed and follow the writer’s reasoning before applying the teaching.

2. Scripture Reading

Romans 1:7 (KJV)

To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul identifies the people to whom he is writing and offers them a greeting.

1 Corinthians 1:10 (KJV)

Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.

Paul addresses division among believers and appeals to them to live in unity.

3. Understanding the Teaching

When reading a biblical letter, consider these questions:

  • Who is writing? Identify the writer when the passage provides that information.
  • Who is receiving the letter? Determine whether it addresses a church, an individual, or another audience.
  • What issue is being addressed? Look for the problem, question, or teaching under discussion.
  • What is the writer explaining? Follow the reasoning through the surrounding verses.
  • How does the teaching apply? Apply the message without changing what the writer intended to communicate.

Not every instruction in a letter addresses the same situation. We must study each instruction carefully to understand its meaning and application.

4. Practical Example

Imagine reading Paul’s instruction about unity in 1 Corinthians 1:10.

If you read only the words about divisions, you might miss the problem Paul was addressing.

Reading the surrounding passage helps you recognise that Paul was correcting divisions among the believers in Corinth.

The lesson is not merely to repeat the word unity. It is to understand Paul’s correction and consider how believers should respond to division.

5. Remember

Biblical letters communicate teaching and instructions to particular readers. Understand the issue being addressed and follow the writer’s reasoning before applying the message.

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