The New Testament was put together by the early church around the end of the first or beginning of the second century. It is composed of 27 books, the four Gospels, Acts, the Epistles 21 books and the Book of Revelation.
As the early church grew and spread, separate books written on animal skins were read in the various churches. In time they were collected and assembled together and formed the New Testament. This must of been somewhat cumbersome as the printing press wasn’t invented until the 16th century.
The four gospels were written by Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. They reveal the birth, Christ travels and teachings, his crucifixion, death and resurrection. When reading the writings of the various books it becomes apparent that they weren’t written by man unless he was inspired by God.
The Book of Acts:
Was written by Luke and going into detail reveals the start of the Church With baptism being introduced to the Jew first then to the gentiles as a means of induction into the church. Events are recorded in the book of Acts as of the growth of the early church being developed and much more.
The 21 Epistles:
The Epistles (letters), are 21 Books written by six authors. From these letters how the Church is organized and run can be used to form a true church of the New Testament.
The Book of Revelation:
In the book of Revelation we run into a highly symbolic, figurative, prophetic book. It is difficult to understand without proper help. There are three main interpretation or theories in parts of the book.
- All takes place shortly after the first century
- Year for a Day Theory
- Premillennialism
To this author the Year for a Day Theory is the only one considered. To much takes place in Revelation for it to happen shortly after the first century Premillennialism is a made up theory from misinterpretation of 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 which they call the Rapture, and which they use to get Christ back to earth to live. Then in Revelation chapter 20 and verses 1-6 they misinterpret to have Christ to live on earth a thousand years and where else but in Jerusalem. It is one of the largest frauds ever perpetrated on the New Testament.
For a more in depth study on Premillennialism read the following two articles.
- Is the Rapture Doctrine Taught in the New Testament?
- What About the Theory Premillennialism in Revelation?
There is a very good book on understanding the book of Revelation that I use that you can purchase on Amazon.
A Commentary On The Book of Revelation by, JOHN T. HINDS, Gospel Advocate Co. Nashville, Tennessee.