A Haiku New Testament Introduction.

After a long delay due both to my oversight then the inability of Typepad to cope with pasted content – (now in the improved version much easier), I can publish one of the shortest (if not the shortest) NT Introduction available to hard pressed students. Thanks to all those who contributed now months ago. I'll be soliciting contributions to the OT version soon.

Gospel of Matthew
Son of Abraham
Brings fulfilment of Torah
Global Commission
         Catriona Gorton

 Gospel of Mark
Good news! Here's a tale –
starts with mid-life crisis, then
stops before life starts.
        Andy Jones

 Gospel of Luke
Good News! For the poor,
'Sinners' and tax-collectors:
Healing salvation.
       Catriona Gorton

Gospel of John
The Word became flesh.
Uncomprehending darkness
eclipsed by the light.
       Jim Gordon

Acts
In Jerusalem
The Word in gracious power
To all the world's end.
    Jason Goroncy

 Romans
Saving God seeks… you:
sin-spoiled, grace-gained, destined. Die
to self, live to love.
       Andy Jones

 1 Corinthians
Life in the body –
A guide for a healthy church
Three cores: faith, hope, love.
       Catriona Gorton

2 Corinthians
Don't do what I said;
do what I meant – and don't give
me all this hassle!
       Andy Jones

 Galatians
In Christ free at last
They try to re-enslave me
Glory in God's Cross
       Jason Goroncy

 Ephesians
God (who called you to
the skies) fill, gift and grow you;
live in light as one!
       Andy Jones 

 Philippians
A prisoner writes
of joy and freedom, for Christ's
crowning came through loss.
       Andy Jones

Colossians
False philosophies
hinder. Live holy lives, be good
to one another.
       Andy Jones

 1 Thessalonians
Renowned for your faith
Live with faithful vigilance
The Lord is coming!
       Jim Gordon

 2 Thessalonians
Show perseverance!
Stand against the Man of Sin!
Shun pious spongers!
Jim Gordon

 Philemon
Neither slave nor free!
Since bound together in Christ,
Free Onessimus.
Jim Gordon

 1 Timothy.
Teach what you were taught,
my son. Practice your gifts, and
keep the flock faithful.
Andy Jones

 2 Timothy
Stick at it young Tim!
Pleasing God should be your aim.
P.S. bring my coat!
       Catriona

Titus
Pick leaders with care:
prize sound doctrine AND lifestyle.
Epimenides!
Catriona

Hebrews
Spoken by the Son
Lo, our great high priest has come
Grace be with you all
Jason  Goroncy

 James
Oft misunderstood
Harmony of faith and deeds
Practical wisdom
       Catriona Gorton

 1 Peter
A chosen people
kept by the power of God
through fiery trial
       Jim Gordon

 2 Peter
Divine election
Means live the last days trusting
Precious promises!
       Jim Gordon

I John
Walk in light and love!
Holy love will cast out fear
from hearts made perfect.
       Jim Gordon

 2 John
Thirteen verses long:
Lady and kids, walk in love.
Beware docetism!
       Gordon Jones

 3 John
The elder commends
kind hospitality (wish
others followed suit!)
       Andy Jones

 Jude
Beware false teachers!
Love the sinner, hate the sin.
God will keep you safe.
       Catriona

 Revelation
Valour in suff'ring
The Lamb who opens the scroll
Making all things new
       Jason Goroncy