The New Testament Epistles are letters written by early Christian leaders, primarily the Apostle Paul, to various churches and individuals. These letters address theological issues, provide guidance on Christian living, and offer encouragement to believers. There are 21 epistles in total, including well-known ones like Romans, 1 Corinthians, and Ephesians. Each epistle serves a specific purpose, often responding to questions or challenges faced by the early Christian communities. They are essential for understanding the teachings of Jesus and the development of early Christian doctrine, as well as for providing insight into the social and cultural context of the time.