In recent years have been exploring some new teaching approaches and content delivery that allowed for more of a "distance learning” model. As we have continued to evaluate our effectiveness we still see an increased need to help students “finish the coursework” and/or “graduate”. After some consideration and discussion we have decided that the best direction is to return to one of our earlier teaching formats.
THE NEW TESTAMENT: CONFLICT AND KINGDOM
An overview of the historical, cultural, social and political backdrop against which the New Testament documents were written. There will be particular emphasis on the following themes:
PATRONAGE AND RECIPROCITY
GRACE AND GENEROSITY
HONOR AND SHAME
PURITY AND POLLUTION/CLEAN AND UNCLEAN
EMPIRE AND KINGDOM
KINSHIP AND COMMUNITY
MAN AND WOMAN AS CO-HEIRS OF A NEW KINGDOM
SACRED SPACE AND IDENTITY
We will also cover material from the Gospels, Acts, Revelation, Hebrews and the balance of the NT, principally against the context and themes listed above. Particular focus will be on the challenges faced by the early christians as they were pledging loyalty and allegiance to a new King and a new Community.
Upon completion students should be able to describe the milieu into which Jesus came and how the early christians struggles and victories teach and inspire us to live our lives to the glory of God and in unfailing loyalty to the Eternal King.
PRE-CLASS VIDEO LECTURES:
To Make Sessions More Interactive, We're Asking Everyone To Watch These Video Lectures Prepared By The THE BIBLE PROJECT, BEFORE You Attend The Class.
REQUIRED READING (AND WATCHING):
The New Testament (Within Twelve Months Of Taking The Course)
The Bible Project On YouTube:
32 Videos In The “Read Scripture - New Testament” Playlist
And Biblical Themes Videos On
Messiah
Holy Spirit
Gospel Of The Kingdom
Son Of Man (Total Of 36 Videos To Be Completed BEFORE Attending First Class)
EXTRA CREDIT READING:
An Introduction to the New Testament, By David De Silva