How to Write a Letter From the Bible
Biblical letters occur primarily in the Christian Scriptures. Whether or not scholars know who penned the epistles -- letters -- in the Bible, most of them follow a particular format. Writing a letter such as you find in the Bible consists of applying an epistolary formula, keeping in mind that a biblical letter educates, inspires and spiritually guides readers who belong to clusters of Christian believers.
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Instructions
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Write a spiritual salutation to the congregation reflecting the core beliefs of the church. Write, for example, as St. Paul wrote in his salutation to the church at Corinth, "Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 1:1)
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Express gratitude for and confidence in the congregation's divine guidance and ability and willingness to follow God's plan. Use as a template, for instance, Philippians 1:6. "I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work in you will continue to complete it until the day of Christ Jesus."
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Advise readers of new events concerning the church. Express joy and hope in God's mercy, goodness and love in all of the church's enterprises. Emphasize the Gospel imperative to evangelize the Good News.
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Inform the congregation of any areas of concern. Specify issues that need attention. Write in the context of spiritual and religious concerns. Admonish members, if necessary, as St. Paul admonished the church at Rome, for activities unbecoming of Christians.
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Send greetings to members of the congregation. Mention their good works. End with blessings for the church, and expressions of glory and praise to God the Father and Jesus Christ.
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Tips & Warnings
A biblical letter may be as long or as short as necessary.
References
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