Typical Elements
in an Epistle

 I.                     Introduction

A.                 Salutation

1.                  Author and those with him

a)                 Primary author & title

This is generally a statement of Apostleship and may include a defense of it.

b)                 Others with the author

This is designed to strengthen the impact of the letter by letting the reader know that other know of this writing and are by implication in agreement with it.

2.                  Readers with complementary description

This is often broadened or directed so as to increase the impact of the writing.

B.                 Introductory prayers[1]

These also have didactic purposes.

1.                  Thanks to God for the relationship to the reader

2.                  Thanks to God for the character of the reader

3.                  Petition to God on behalf of the readers.

II.                   Body

A.                 Situation

B.                 Theological development

1.                  Current bad behavior

2.                  Theology that is causing the bad behavior

3.                  Correct godly theology

4.                  How the reader is to live in light of this theology.

III.                  Conclusion

A.                 Author’s situation

B.                 Greetings from those with the author

As in the salutation the author lets the reader know that many other, whom the readers know and have a measure of respect for, know of this letter and by implication endorse it.

C.                Greetings to friends of the author who are with the readers.

This again lends impact to the content of the letter since the author is sure to discuss with these people how the readers reacted to the letter.

D.                Summary message statement

E.                 Closing benediction