How are the New Testament writings categorized according to their divisions?

The categorization of the New Testament writings into Gospels, Pauline letters, Catholic letters, and the Apocalypse is widely accepted among scholars and theologians due to the distinct literary forms and purposes served by each group.

Gospels refer specifically to the accounts of Jesus' life, teachings, death, and resurrection found in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Pauline letters are those epistles attributed to the Apostle Paul, addressing various early Christian communities and dealing with theological and practical issues. The Catholic letters, or General Epistles, include works attributed to other apostles, such as James, Peter, John, and Jude, which are aimed at broader audiences beyond specific communities. The Apocalypse refers primarily to the Book of Revelation, which deals with eschatological themes and the ultimate triumph of God.

This comprehensive framework reflects the diversity of the New Testament's content, making it clear how different authors and genres contribute to the overarching narrative of early Christianity. Understanding these categories aids in grasping the theological themes and historical context of each writing.