It was such an enjoyable class today, comparing the synoptic gospels with John, and Paul's writings. Repent / repentance can easily be found in Matthew, Mark, and Luke / Acts, but is curiously absent in John's gospel. In thirteen books, Paul only uses the word repent 5 times, most of which had to do with his own decision making.
When comparing the word Believe, Matthew used the word 6 times, Mark, 11 times, and Luke, 5 times. It is found 6 times in Acts. In John's gospel, believe is found 60 times! In Paul's letters believe is found 41 times. There is definitely a pattern and focus change from Matthew to John, and even more in Paul's writings. Believing becomes the focus over repentance.
The word Grace is truly significant in the New Testament, since we are in the dispensation of the grace of God. Matthew does not record the word grace. Mark only records grace once. It is found once in Luke, and 10 times in Acts. John records the word grace 3 times. Grace is found in 87 references in Paul's writings!
I know it is a simple word search, but it is very telling how we should look at the themes of the books we read and study. John's focus was on believing. Paul's focus was on belief and grace!
Looking forward to our next Bible study, as we break down the miracles recorded in the gospels. Remember...All the Bible was not written to us, but all the Bible was written for us.
