The Epistles of Paul (Chronologically Arranged With Pertinent Data)

This is reprinted from the December, 1978 Christian Courier which was published by the East Main Street Church of Christ in Stockton, California and edited by Wayne Jackson.

Galatians - Possibly the first of Paul's letters, written from Antioch (Acts 14:26) around 49 A.D. Argues the release from the bondage of the law and reveals the liberty to be found in obedience to Christ (cf. 5:1).

I Thessalonians - From Corinth (Acts 18:5-11) circa 52 or 53 A.D. Designed to give encouragement to Christians in view of the Lord's promised return (cf. 4:13f).

II Thessalonians - From Corinth (Acts 18:5-11) circa 52 or 53 A.D., shortly after the first letter. Corrects a misunderstanding of the first epistle on the part of those who assumed an imminent return of Christ (cf. 2:1f).

I Corinthians - Written from Ephesus (Acts 19:8-22) in the spring of 54-55 A.D. The letter deals with problems of a local church and answers questions that had been submitted by those brethren (cf. 7:1).

II Corinthians - From Macedonia (Acts 20:1) in the fall of 54 or 55 A.D. Contains a defense of Paul's apostleship; encouragement to complete a promised contribution for needy Christians (cf. 8:1f; 11:5).

Romans - From Greece (Corinth) around 56 A.D. (Acts 20:2-3). Sets forth the theme of justification (5:1), through the gospel (1:16) by means of obedient faith (1:5; 16:26).

Philemon - From Rome during Paul's first imprisonment there (Acts 28). Instructions to Philemon regarding the reception of his newly converted runaway slave, around 62 A.D.

Colossians - From Rome (Acts 28), circa 62 A.D. Contains a great defense of the preeminence of Christ in opposition to a Judaic-Gnostic heresy (cf. 1:15f; 2:8f).

Ephesians - From Rome (Acts 28) around 62 A.D. A discourse on the fulfillment of God's eternal purpose in Christ, with practical applications (cf. 3:10; 4:1f).

Philippians - From Rome (Acts 28) in either 62 or 63 A.D. An intimate letter of Paul's beloved brethren. Thanks for support (1:5; 4:10f); encouragement in unity (1:27f; 2:2f).

I Timothy - Written from Macedonia (1:3) after Paul's release from his first Roman confinement (Acts 28) around 64 A.D. Practical instructions to young Timothy (3:15).

Titus - Possibly from Macedonia while proceeding toward Nicopolis (3:12) around 64 A.D. Instructions for church organization, practical counsel and warnings against heretics.

II Timothy - From Paul's final Roman imprisonment where he was awaiting martyrdom (4:6-8) around 66 or 67 A.D. Exhortation to courage and faithfulness; warnings about apostasy. Contains the apostle's final charge to Timothy.

*Many believe that Paul also authored Hebrews. Since however, the Holy Spirit led the writer of that document to leave it anonymous, it is wise to concur.