The New Testament in 90 DaysSample

Introduction to Third John

The author identified himself as “the elder,” just like in Second John. Scholars believe John was nearing the end of his life as history shows that he was the last living disciple. He probably wrote this book from the island of Patmos around A.D. 90. 

John wrote this letter to Gaius, who was a prominent Christian in a church John knew of. John was helping Gaius deal with the troubles that he was facing, including handling a man named Diotrephes who apparently came to take over a church and even banned traveling missionaries. Diotrephes had received correction from John, but did not heed it. 

Introduction to Jude

The author of this book is Jude, who is the brother of James. This would make him the half-brother of Jesus Christ. Like his brother, James, Jude’s faith in Jesus didn’t happen until after the Resurrection. There is no guarantee as to when Jude wrote this book, but scholars believe it to be anywhere between A.D. 67-80. 

Jude’s letter was short and to the point. The first century church was highly threatened by heresy and false teaching, so Jude’s letter was to challenge the church to be vigilant in their faith by standing against heresy.