The New Church (Swedenborgian) among the books of the New Testament includes only the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) and the Book of Revelation. Only these books contain an internal symbolism in a series, and are thus divinely inspired. Although this leaves out the Book of Acts and the letters of the apostles, the New Church holds them in esteem similar to that of the Jews for the Writings of the Old Testament. Swedenborg stated that these books were included as an act of divine providence, as books explaining Christian doctrine were needed for the general public. Paul's letters, although not containing a
New Testament people named Mary at least two occasions. "Mary and Martha" are mentioned by name in John 11:1–12:8 and in Luke 10:38–41. Three other passages, one each in Matthew, Mark and Luke, refer to an unnamed person identified by some but by no means all authorities as this Mary, or as Mary Magdalene, or both. Roman Catholic tradition in particular identifies the person in Luke with both Mary of Bethany and Saint Mary Magdalene. John describes two visits by Jesus to Mary and Martha. In , Jesus raises Mary's brother Lazarus from death. Mary, Martha and Lazarus already appear to be very close friends