don (04/04/83)
In my earlier submission, I gave 150 as the date for the
Gospel of John. This turned out to be one author's opinion
(I'm not sure who), and practically no N.T. scholars agree.
Thanks to Larry Bickford for pointing out my goof and giving
the figure of 85-90 that is much more probable and is
accepted by many N.T. scholars.
The following chronology is a compilation of views of
various scholars as to when the books of the N.T. were
written. This attempts to reflect the majority view of the
N.T. scholars and to include significant minority opinions
as well, however, not all opinions are represented. It was
prepared by a local minister for an introduction to the N.T.
that he teaches from time to time. There has not been
agreement on an exact date for any N.T. book; thus all the
dates shown are ranges.
Scholars Estimates of
Book Date of Composition
I Thessalonians 50-52
II Thessalonians 50-52
I Corinthians 53-57
II Corinthians 53-57
Galatians 48-55
Romans 55-58
Philippians 56-64
Colossians 56-64
Philemon 56-64
Ephesians 56-100
Gospel of Mark 64-72
Gospel of Matthew 65-100
Gospel of Luke 60-90
Acts 60-120
James 80-100
Hebrews 80-96
Revelation 25-95
Gospel of John 65-100
I Peter 90-100
I, II, III John 90-110
Jude 100-125
I, II Timothy 100-130
Titus 100-130
II Peter 125-150
It is interesting to note the 70 year range for Revelation.
A few scholars have advanced the view that part of it was
written before or during the public ministry of Jesus!
Others think it was written after Paul's letters and the
Gospels.
To be continued when I learn something else new and
interesting.
Don Winsor
Ann Arbor, MI