Introduction to the New Testament

Overview

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of the New Testament’s content, authorship, historical context, and theological themes. It is structured into four modules covering the Gospels, Pauline Epistles, General Epistles, and Revelation, as well as the historical and cultural backdrop of the New Testament era. Participants will delve into key scriptural texts, engage with diverse interpretative methods, and explore the theological and ethical teachings of early Christianity.

Certification

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a Certificate of Biblical Studies in the New Testament, signifying their foundational understanding of New Testament theology, historical contexts, and interpretative approaches.

Course Objectives

Understand the Structure and Themes of the New Testament: Gain knowledge of the major sections, including the Gospels, Pauline and General Epistles, and Revelation.
Explore Theological Concepts: Analyze key theological ideas such as justification by faith, the Kingdom of God, and Christ’s role as High Priest.
Interpret Scriptural Texts: Learn and apply various methods of interpretation, including historical-critical, literary, and theological approaches.
Examine Historical Contexts: Investigate the socio-political and religious landscape of 1st-century Palestine and its influence on New Testament writings.
Engage with Christian Ethics and Practices: Study how New Testament teachings address community life, ethical living, and perseverance under persecution.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

Identify and explain the distinct contributions of the New Testament’s various authors and books.
Analyze key scriptural passages and articulate their theological significance.
Apply historical and cultural knowledge to enrich their understanding of the New Testament texts.
Utilize interpretative tools and methodologies to critically engage with biblical texts.
Demonstrate an informed understanding of the New Testament’s impact on Christian theology and ethical practices.

Curriculum

5 Sections
16 Lessons
10 Weeks

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Module 1: The Gospels and Acts
This module focuses on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ as recounted in the Gospels, as well as the early Church's history as depicted in the Acts of the Apostles. Topics to be covered include: The Synoptic Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, The Gospel of John, Historical Jesus and the Kingdom of God, and The Acts of the Apostles: The Early Church.
4
Module 2: Pauline Epistles
This module delves into the letters of Paul, exploring his theology, missionary journeys, and guidance to early Christian communities. The topics to be considered are; Introduction to Paul and His Letters, Justification by Faith: Romans and Galatians, Christian Living: Corinthians and Philippians, and Eschatology and Ecclesiology: Thessalonians and Ephesians.
4
Module 3: General Epistles and Revelation
Study the General Epistles and the Book of Revelation, focusing on their specific contexts, audiences, and theological themes. Topics to be covered include: Hebrews: Christ as High Priest, Catholic Epistles: James, Peter, and Jude; Letters of John: Love and Truth; Revelation: Apocalyptic Visions and Prophecy
4
Module 4: Historical Context and Textual Criticism
This module addresses the historical and cultural setting of the New Testament and introduces principles of textual criticism used in New Testament studies. The following topics will be discussed; The World of the New Testament, Textual Criticism of the New Testament, The Canonization of the New Testament, and Interpreting the New Testament
4
Exam
1
- 5.1
  Final exam
  10 Minutes15 Questions

Instructor

Dr Samson Fadiya

Apostle S.O. Fadiya is a dedicated minister and leader passionate about empowering youth and illuminating God’s purpose in life, relationships, and family. As President of Christ Church Evangelism Ministries (CCE Ministries), a University Professor, and a Career Advisor, he shares divinely inspired messages focused on salvation and spiritual growth.
Fadiya holds a B.Sc. in Information Systems and MSc and Ph.D. degrees in Management Information Systems from Girne American University, Cyprus. He has also completed advanced studies in the United States and Canada. Residing in Canada with his wife, Elizabeth, and their children, he continues his mission to guide individuals toward spiritual maturity through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.
He is the author of numerous life-changing books, including Marriage Charity, 365 Days of Kingdom Exploring Devotional, Leadership Formation, A flight with the invisible, Spiritual footprints, and more.
Given his educational expertise in the area of Information Systems, Fadiya founded the Canadian Tech Institute for Academic Research (Canatech Institute), a leading Knowledge and Innovation Enterprise that provides global solutions in the areas of education and technology. Canatech Institute hosts high-impact conferences that gather professionals from around the world to contribute to solving global issues. The institute has also pioneered the invention of a unique social media and faith-based App called Eccly and a CRM system integrated with POS management.