Around 50 CE is the estimated date for which event?

• A. Paul started writing letters
• B. Paul joined the Jesus movement
• C. Gospel of Matthew written
• D. Gospel of John written

Answer: (A)

Paul began writing his letters around 50 CE, making that date a good match for the start of his written communications to early Christian communities. These letters are among the earliest Christian writings, produced as Paul carried out his missionary work and addressed issues that came up in newly formed churches, such as Galatia and Thessalonica. The other options don’t fit this timeframe: Paul’s initial involvement with the Jesus movement happened earlier, in the 30s CE; the Gospels of Matthew and John were written later, roughly 80–90 CE and 90–110 CE respectively. So the 50 CE estimate best aligns with the beginning of Paul’s correspondence.