Structure of New Testament letters

Ross Woods, 2022

Most New Testament letters (but not all) follow this format:

Opening
Who it is from, and their credentials or role
Who it is to
Greetings
Extolling some virtue of the reader

Main body
This is normally the largest part of the whole letter. It usually comprises teaching in response to particular problems in the recipients’ church.

Practical application
Exhortation to live in fellowship and be examples in the way you live.

Personal greetings
Greetings to individual friends and words of encouragement.

Close
Close, often a blessing or benediction.