A survey of the historical, literary, and cultural context of the New Testament. This course is a prerequisite for all other New Testament classes.

The following are intended learning outcomes specific to this course:

1. Learn to identify the literary structure of the New Testament.
2. Gain understanding about the genre and basic thrust of each New Testament book.
3. Summarize the significant life events of Jesus and Paul.
4. Identify the significant elements of the message of Jesus and Paul.
5. Describe the impact of the historical background of the New Testament on the message of Jesus and Paul.
6. Order chronologically the significant events and persons of the New Testament.
7. Identify and describe the major theological concepts of the New Testament.

The following are competencies for Ministry as outlined in the Sourcebook for Ministerial Development that will be addressed in this course:

1. Ability to identify the literary structure, theological concepts and main storyline of the New Testament. (CN3)
2. Ability to describe the historical and cultural contexts of the New Testament including an ability to Biblically affirm pastoral leadership of men and women within the Church. (CN4)
3. Ability to describe the development of the canon and the historical and theological influences resulting in contemporary translations. (CN5)

There are no prerequisites for this course.