Bible crossword puzzle 23: Hebrews, James, 1 and 2 Peter, and Jude

Based on material in chapters 29 and 30 of Discovering the Bible by Alex Varughese, textbook for Introduction to Biblical Literature

Challenge: Can you solve this puzzle even if you do not have the book by Varughese?

ACROSS

1 -- A book written by the brother of Jesus in which an emphasis on good deeds is seen as an important part of the Christian life; true faith is seen as being manifested in works
6 -- This is what Hebrews says that Jesus Christ is as well being the High Priest who presides over it
7 -- A brief New Testament book that deals with a situation of apostasy and then concludes with a beautiful doxology
9 -- The author of two New Testament letters, both of which include warnings about heresies and heretical teachers. The first of those letters calls on believers to live a holy life because the God who has called them is a holy God. As is the case with Paul's second letter to Timothy, this "second" letter seems to be the writer's farewell speech before his soon-expected death.

DOWN

2 -- The falling away from one's former beliefs
3 -- A way in which the Bible (including 2 Peter) refers to the Second Coming of Christ
4 -- The book of the Bible in which faith is defined and in which Jesus is presented as a heavenly High Priest who is the Mediator of the new covenant/ Christianity is shown to be superior to the ancient traditions of Judaism
5 -- A designation for those New Testament letters that were written for an audience larger than just one particular church or person
8 -- The chapter in Hebrews that contains several examples of Old Testament people with faith (the "Faith Hall of Fame")

This crossword puzzle was created for use in the course Introduction to Biblical Literature. The words and clues come from the textbook Discovering the Bible: Story and Faith of the Biblical Communities edited by Alex Varughese and published by Beacon Hill Press of Kansas City, now called The Foundry.

-- Howard Culbertson,

Afterword

While each of these five New Testament books -- Hebrews, James, 1 and 2 Peter, and Jude -- has its own unique focus and style, they do speak to some of the same themes. Those themes include:

Faith and Works: These books call attention to the importance of both faith and works in the Christian life. While faith is foundational for salvation, it should be demonstrated through good works and righteous living.
Perseverance and Endurance: The authors call on believers to endure trials and persevere in their faith despite challenges and persecution. They remind readers of the rewards that come from remaining steadfast in the face of adversity.
Holiness and Righteousness: There is a consistent call to holy living and moral purity in these letters. Believers are urged to abstain from sin and to live in a manner that reflects the character of God.
False Teaching and Apostasy: The authors warn against false teachings and the dangers of falling away from the faith. They exhort believers to be wise and to hold fast to the truth of the gospel.
The Second Coming of Christ: The imminent return of Jesus Christ is a prominent theme in these five books. Believers are reminded to live in anticipation of His coming and to be prepared for the day of judgment.
The Sovereignty of God: God's sovereignty and control over all things are made clear. In the midst of trials and suffering, believers are reminded to trust in God's providence and to submit to His will.
The Power of Prayer: The importance of prayer is evident when it is mentioned as a means of seeking God's guidance, strength, and intervention in all circumstances.

While certain of these themes are more prominent in some books than in others, these five New Testament writings collectively contribute to the main message of faith, endurance, and godly living.

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