The Catholic Epistles – 12 Theses

I’m spending some time in the Catholic Epistles these days, reading a mixture of Karen Jobes, David Nienhuis, Robert Wall, and Peter Davids along the way. In the course of my research I’ve developed 12 Theses about the major themes of the Catholic Epistles. Here they are:

(1)  The Old Testament authorizes the church’s kerygma and validates the church as God’s royal and holy people.

(2) Suffering is the crucible that tests and refines authentic faith.

(3) Genuine faith is characterized by perseverance, love, obedience, and transformation.

(4) Believers are called to keep the teaching of Jesus and follow the example of Jesus.

(5) Jesus’s death cleanses believers from the contamination of sin.

(6) Jesus’s resurrection brings believers into a living hope.

(7) Jesus’s ascension marks him out as the Lord of the universe.

(8) Elders should shepherd the church with gentleness and compassion.

(9) The church must be vigilant against allowing licentiousness to gain a foothold.

(10) The church should guard against inadequate accounts of Christ’s person and work.

(11) The church should be characterized by holiness and hospitality.

(12) The church should face Christ’s return with confidence in receiving its final redemption.

Anything I should add or change?