This course introduces participants to the Gospels, Pauline letters, and other New Testament books. Participants will learn about the formation and central themes of the New Testament and develop skills in biblical interpretation, or exegesis, as a basis for preaching and teaching. By taking the course, participants will more fully grasp the breadth of meaning in the New Testament texts and grow more able to exegete, proclaim, and apply scripture in preaching, teaching, and participation in the life of the congregation.
Course objectives
- Identify the main characters and components of the New Testament story.
- Describe the New Testament's historical context and use this information to illuminate important passages.
- Discern how to connect the New Testament's message and teachings with our lives in the present-day.
About the course
This course is comprised of five self-paced learning modules and two synchronous Zoom sessions. Each learning module involves a combination of readings, videos, and reflection exercises designed to help participants think through the New Testament story, its historical contexts and complexities, and how it connects with our lives. The Zoom sessions provide a space for participants to dive further into the learning material by engaging with their colleagues and instructor, raising excellent questions and discussing together how course's material relates to our lives here in there present-day.
Schedule
- Course begins August 19 and ends September 27, 2024
- Zoom Sessions: Mondays August 26 and September 16 from 7-8 p.m. Eastern
- Learning Module One: An Introduction to the New Testament & Its World
- Learning Module Two: The Gospel According to Mark
- Learning Module Three: The Gospels
- Learning Module Four: The Book of Acts & The New Testament Letters
- Learning Module Five: The Book of Revelation
If you have any questions or problems, please email pathways@wesleyseminary.edu.