The summary of God's dealings with mankind, from first adoption to sonship, showing sinfulness of human race; the way of salvation; the Christian's duty and privileges; the development of truth; personal messages.
1 and 2 Corinthians
(1) The church as it was at that time; reproof of the factional spirit; intercourse with heathen; words about the Lord's supper; resurrection of the dead. (2) The model pastor; thankfulness for the removal of evils against which Paul had written in the first letter; indignation at the arrogance of his opponents.
Galatians
The "magna charta of Christian liberty." Contains details of Paul's life. Salvation impossible through works of the law. Brief outline of plan of salvation as given in Romans. Its argument makes Christianity not a Jewish sect but a world religion.
Ephesians
On the Ideal Church. Written to strengthen those who had left heathenism, contrasting their present higher life with the former degradation.
Philippians
On the Ideal Christian. Written during Paul's first imprisonment in Rome—a letter of grateful affection, of joy over the Philippian Christians, and comment upon his imprisonment and prospects.