The answer is: 27

Easy one to start with... just count them to check!

Absolutely, the New Testament contains 27 books, and that’s just the beginning of the fascinating journey through this collection of writings! This assortment delivers a rich narrative, filled with the teachings of Jesus, the adventures of the apostles, and deep theological insights – all packed into various literary styles from gospels to letters!

Did you know that the New Testament was written over the course of nearly a century, between about 50 and 100 CE? That timeframe allowed early Christians to reflect on their experiences and the divine message. The letters, or epistles, especially those attributed to Paul, play a critical role in shaping early Christian theology and often address the practical struggles faced by fledgling communities.

And speaking of community, there’s a delightful emphasis on love and fellowship throughout the New Testament. John 1:7 beautifully sums up that sentiment - "Let us love one another..." It’s interesting to note that love is mentioned repeatedly; in fact, the word appears over 50 times in 1 John alone!

Finally, let’s not forget that the New Testament also has some deep echoes from the Hebrew scriptures, offering prophetic insights and fulfillment of older texts. Romans 15:4 highlights this connection; it illustrates the New Testament couldn’t stand alone without the rich background provided by what came before. So, whether we’re discussing parables or praise, this collection beckons readers to explore historic truths that resonate timelessly. Happy reading!